The battle between physical stores and online retailers will persist for years. Even the clothing and grocery industries have faced an increase in online competition as increasingly personalized shopping experiences emerged. Quick shipping has enabled fresh food deliveries (for both general groceries and pre-packed ingredients for specific meals) and clothing orders that allow consumers to try on outfits and return what they don’t like. However, that doesn’t mean your grocery store is going out of business. Physical stores still control a significant portion of the market, and this trend is expected to continue as shoppers seek a comprehensive shopping experience, rather than just efficient purchasing.
Ensure your grocery store provides a positive shopping experience. Lighting plays a large part of how shoppers feel in your store, so improve your lighting with these three changes:
Have warm, low lighting that allows shoppers to congregate.
In-store coffee shops have been a growing trend for years, and grocery stores can further capitalize on this trend by incorporating in-store delis and eateries. These sections provide your customers with a place to relax before or after shopping, making even running errands a positive experience. Make the spaces feel warm and homey with warm lighting. Also, light the tables with individual fixtures under general lighting so the space doesn’t feel industrial.
Use accent lighting to emphasize free samples.
If you’re going to compete against online stores, you have to emphasize what they can’t offer customers: a sensory experience. Add free samples near your bakery and deli so customers can sample and experience the featured products. Accent lighting helps draw customers in and directs traffic so they feel more implicitly invited to try the samples.
Use daylight bulbs to replicate sunlight near organic and fresh foods.
Locally sourced foods aren’t just demanded by a small subset of foodies. Even general consumers are increasing their demand for locally grown products and ethical foods. If your store lacks natural lighting, you can use LEDs with daylight-level lumens to illuminate the organic and fresh food sections. It lights up the food without exposing it to extra heat, and the look of natural lighting underlines the message of natural foods, resulting in better sales.
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