Bricks & Clicks – the way forward for Community Centre retailers
The rise of Bricks & Clicks — retailers that operate both physical stores and strong online channels — has reshaped the retail landscape.
According to the Australia Post eCommerce Industry Report 2023, these businesses saw a 7 percent increase in share of online spending between 2019 and 2023.
This trend isn’t just for big brands; small retailers in community shopping centres can also thrive by combining the benefits of both online and offline retail, all while avoiding the higher rents often associated larger centres.
Why Bricks & Clicks Works for Community Centre Retailers
- Cost-Effective Retail Space
Community shopping centres offer lower rent than larger centres, making them an ideal location for small businesses.
Retailers can afford to maintain a physical store while building an online presence, offering customers the best of both worlds without the financial strain of high overhead costs.
- Convenience and Increased Foot Traffic
One of the greatest benefits of Bricks & Clicks is convenience.
Offering click and collect encourages customers to order online and pick up in-store, often leading to extra purchases and increased foot traffic.
In community centres, parking is often easier (especially during peak periods), making it a more convenient option for customers compared to larger centres, further boosting in-store visits.
- Competing with Larger Retailers
With the combination of personalised service and an integrated online-offline experience, smaller retailers can compete with larger brands.
Many shoppers appreciate the unique, tailored shopping experience that small businesses can offer, which big-box stores often can’t match.
Practical Steps for Community Centre Retailers
- Create a User-Friendly Online Store
Make sure your online store is easy to navigate and mobile-optimised. Offering click and collect should be a key part of your online shopping process to encourage customers to visit your physical store. - Leverage Social Media
Use social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook to showcase your products, promotions, and store events. Promote your online and in-store offerings to drive traffic to both channels. - Integrate the Experience
Ensure consistency between your online and in-store experiences. Customers should feel confident purchasing online with the option to easily pick up in-store. Offering seamless returns and exchanges between the two channels adds to customer satisfaction.
Community shopping centres offer small retailers an affordable and flexible way to adopt the Bricks & Clicks model and maximise sales in an increasingly competitive marketplace.