It’s time for a holiday check-in! This holiday season is expected to be full of surprises, new consumer shopping trends, and more. With major retail stores shutting their doors on Thanksgiving & Black Friday, online businesses have an opportunity to capture more sales.

From point-of-sale updates to incorporating a digital storefront, Payroc's Payment Professionals can help you look for ways to upgrade your consumers' shopping experience. Contact us today to learn how we can help you get your online store ready for the Holidays.

Holiday shopping will start earlier than ever, thanks to Prime Day

• With Amazon Prime Day in October this year, consumers will start looking for holiday deals early.
• Take advantage of the increase of shoppers. Stay competitive with early sales.

Delivery services will be overloaded

The expected increase in online orders this year will cause delays and surcharges from shipping and fulfillment services.

• Have a plan in place early and inventory readily available
• Offer consumer incentives for other options like in-store pickup and local delivery

Buy-online-pickup-in-store is here to stay

With its speed, convenience, and low cost for shoppers and retailers, BOPIS was a trend that took off during COVID --and it’s not leaving.

• Incentivize shoppers with discounts or GWP
• Train sales associates for packaging and fulfillment
• Make sure sales and inventory are clearly visible, as shoppers will do less casual browsing

All digital channels are expected to grow

Online sales will be bigger than ever this year, with social and mobile at the forefront.

• Make sure sites are mobile-optimized and ready for increased traffic
• Be visible on social media channels
• Prepare for more digital customer interaction

Transparency is key

COVID showed us that customers appreciate transparency, and don’t fault small businesses for shortcomings during this unexpected year

• Stay transparent in messaging
• Set expectations upfront for in-store experiences and fulfillment and delivery times

Shopper behavior will feel more reserved

• Shoppers are looking to spend less and save more this year, and choosing practical gifts and products over luxury items
• Soften tone compared to other holiday seasons, as many shoppers have limited budgets
• Consider stocking essentials like masks
• Run additional sales, or bundle offers