Creativity Exercise 5 - Snap Solutions

Exercise 5: Snap Solutions

Background

Continuing through Regina Pacelli's book, Whole Lotta Creativity Going On, I was given the following scenario. 

Scenario

"You are the owner of a small grocery store. Recently, business has been getting worse. Many of your customers are now going to the much larger grocery store that opened up nearby instead.

Come up with at least ten (10) different ideas for bringing business back to your store. Describe them in as much detail as you can."

Being from Lakeland, my immediate thought was, "What would Publix do?" 
I came up with six ideas before my thoughts drifted to my personal problems. Then, I went to ChatGPT for assistance. The chatbot generated many ideas similar to my own.

 Here are 10 ideas to bring business back to the small grocery store:

1. Personalized Customer Service

   Small businesses have an advantage in providing personalized service. Train staff to greet regular customers by name and remember their preferences. This personal touch can make customers feel valued, something large stores often can’t replicate. Offer a “special order” service, where you get products that customers want but may not be able to find in larger stores.

2. Loyalty Program

   Implement a simple loyalty program. For example, a punch card system can be offered, and after 10 purchases, the customer gets a free item or discount. You could also create a points-based system where customers earn points for every dollar spent that can be redeemed for discounts or exclusive items.

3. Weekly In-Store Events

   Host weekly events such as cooking demonstrations, food tastings, or seasonal workshops (e.g., “How to Make Holiday Treats” during the winter). These events will encourage people to visit the store, engage with the products, and perhaps purchase more there. Partner with local chefs or nutritionists to make it more appealing.

4. Home Delivery and Curbside Pickup

   Offer a home delivery or curbside pickup service. Many people, especially seniors or busy parents, prefer the convenience of online ordering. A simple website or a phone-in system could work, and you can promote free delivery for orders over a certain amount to encourage larger purchases.

5. Local and Organic Products

   Differentiate your store by focusing on local and organic products. Large chains often don’t focus on these or have a limited selection. Partner with local farmers, artisans, and food producers to offer fresh, local goods. Create sections for these products and market your store as the go-to place for fresh and sustainable items.

6. Exclusive Products

   Offer unique, hard-to-find items that customers won’t be able to get at the larger chain store. This could include specialty foods (e.g., international or gourmet products), craft beers, artisanal cheeses, or unique household items. Emphasize the exclusivity of these products in your advertising.

7. Competitive Pricing and Discounts

   Larger stores often have lower prices, so you need to be competitive in areas that matter most to customers. Identify key price-sensitive products (milk, eggs, bread, etc.) and offer promotions or discounts on these items to draw people in. Make sure to clearly communicate the deals in-store and online.

8. Subscription Boxes

   Create subscription boxes for different categories, such as local produce, healthy snacks, or specialty coffee. Customers can sign up for weekly or monthly delivery of these curated boxes, offering them convenience and novelty. Promote the box on social media and in-store as a unique offering that adds value to their shopping experience.

9. Community Engagement and Sponsorship

   Become more involved in the local community by sponsoring local events, school fundraisers, or community sports teams. Offer discounts for community events or loyalty programs for local organizations. Organize food drives or charity events to create goodwill. People who see the store actively contributing to the community may be more inclined to support it.

10. Improved In-Store Experience

   Make your store a more pleasant and convenient place to shop. Focus on a clean, organized layout and friendly atmosphere. Create an inviting ambiance with good lighting and easy-to-navigate aisles. Offer in-store samples to encourage people to try new products. Consider creating a small café section where people can grab a coffee or snack, enabling them to linger and spend more.

Bonus: Social Media and Local Marketing

   Boost your online presence by being active on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Post pictures of new products, special deals, and events. Engage with your community through fun challenges, contests, or customer spotlights. You can also send out weekly newsletters featuring promotions and product highlights, making it easy for customers to know what’s new.

These strategies focus on enhancing the customer experience, offering convenience, and fostering community ties, all while playing to the strengths of a small business.