< Back to all blog posts

Retailers Fitting Rooms Costing Sales

costing sales retailers

Even though fitting rooms have long been a tried-and-true part of retail shopping, recent research has revealed that they may actually be having the opposite effect—limiting purchases instead of facilitating them. In this post, we'll delve into why shoppers are less likely to complete their transactions when trying on clothes in store and explore how retailers can create a more successful purchasing experience for customers.

1. Crowding and Waiting - Shopping can be an enjoyable experience, but waiting in line or dealing with overcrowded fitting rooms can quickly turn it sour. Customers often become frustrated and overwhelmed by long lines at the dressing room, leading to a negative shopping atmosphere that could even discourage them from making a purchase. This challenge of managing crowded fitting rooms is one many stores are now looking to address, taking steps towards providing shoppers with more convenient and pleasant experiences!

2. Theft - Fitting rooms may provide customers with convenience, but they can also lead to theft if not closely monitored. Shoplifting in fitting rooms has become increasingly common and troublesome for retailers, resulting in serious inventory losses that cut into profits.

3. Unsatisfactory Fit - Trying on clothes at the store can often be an uncomfortable experience due to unfavorable lighting, unflattering mirrors, and other factors. This leads many customers to feel unsatisfied with their purchase choices, resulting in a loss of revenue for retailers everywhere.

4. Inconvenience - Rather than being a convenient part of the shopping experience, fitting rooms can be an inconvenience for customers. They might have to wait in long lines or transport multiple items while navigating crowded areas, making it difficult and even impossible for individuals with mobility impairments or disabilities. Unfortunately, this discourages them from completing their purchase, which is disadvantageous not only to shoppers but also to retailers, who lose out on potential sales.

5. Hygiene Concerns - With the onset of COVID-19, many customers are feeling uneasy about trying on clothes in a communal space. As such, fitting rooms have become something to fear rather than embrace - potential hygiene hazards that could lead to lost sales for retailers as fewer shoppers spend time browsing and purchasing apparel.

costing sales

So, what can retailers do to mitigate these effects and improve sales? Here are some suggestions:

1. Improve Fitting Room Design - Retailers can revamp their fitting room design to provide a more enjoyable in-store experience for customers. Additions such as additional rooms, high-quality mirrors and lighting, plus handy hooks and shelves, could make the process of trying on clothes much smoother, minimizing wait times and increasing convenience!

2. Implement Technology - Technology has revolutionized the fitting room experience, creating a more secure and personalized shopping journey. Retailers can use RFID tags to prevent inventory loss or leverage virtual try-on technology that allows customers to preview how outfits will look on them before purchase.

3. Offer Alternatives - Retailers can also offer alternatives to traditional fitting rooms. For example, they can offer home try-on programs or virtual styling services to help customers find the right fit without needing to visit a physical store.

4. Improve Hygiene Practices - In the face of customer worries about hygiene, retailers can help create a safer shopping environment by taking steps like giving their fitting rooms a regular clean and disinfecting, keeping hand sanitizer stocked up for customers’ convenience, and setting social distancing policies in place.

Conclusion

Shopping can be a blissful experience, but fitting rooms are often more of an ordeal than customers want. Retailers must take proactive steps to ensure that their fitting room spaces offer the best shopping environment possible—from sprucing up designs and deploying tech help to offering tailored alternatives and ensuring top sanitation standards. With the right changes, everyone will come out with happier outcomes!

fitting rooms costing sales

People also read...

Play Ridiculously Fun Marketing Acronym Game

"Use Voice" Approach: Perfecting Your Brand's Tone

Facing Harsh Truths: The Need for Advanced Analytics

Top Influencer Marketing Tactics: Trends & Insights

Enhancing CRM: Proven Ways to Boost Customer Relations

Machine Learning: The Future of Mobile Marketing Insight

8 Essential Features for Optimal Project Management Software

Live Chat Bots: Boosting Customer Service Efficiency

Cash vs. Accrual Accounting: Which Suits Your Needs?

22021

Contact Us

Register for our Memorial Day Conference!

When: Memorial Day

Where: ICON Park Orlando

Register Here