A New Idea to Ease Your Busy Store Woes

It is not often that I come across a truly excellent idea that is new to me but that is exactly what happened recently. It happened as I was seeking a sugar boost and while in the queue at a well-known donut store. When it comes to knowing a thing or two about busy stores, I suppose the donut giant should be seen as an expert. What grabbed me most about the idea was the simplicity of it all. No huge expense, no huge planning, just a quick solution to the problem of long queues which ensured staff were not overworked and customers got their donuts quicker. A win-win.

A Tale of Two Boxes

The store had prepared two options – a box of their plain donuts and a selection box with one of each kind of donut. These were stacked beside a lone staff member on a desk with some signs around it. It was clear this was an emergency or quick fix that they had implemented but it worked. The idea was simple – people could join the slow queue if they wanted to choose their own individual donuts and join the fast queue for the pre-selected options. This cut down on the time spent there enormously. In fact, I chose the fast queue despite the fact I would have preferred to pick my own and I was happy to have avoided the queue. There have been times I have actually left when the queue has been too big so this set-up will no doubt improve sales too.

How Can I Use This…

… was my thought as I left. There are surely plenty of busy stores who have similar issues, especially around holiday times. What if other stores were to create a similar idea in their store with a pre-selected range of their most popular items. The only weak point the donut store’s idea had was in presentation but of course, that is exactly what I believe I can improve. With our wide range of products that are perfect for setting up a small space like that, we could definitely take this idea and improve it for our clients.

In a way, it is similar to our Shop-In-Shop Idea (Click), just with a specific purpose.

For a more permanent and professional version, our Expandable Grand Fabric System would be the ideal solution. However, it could also be done with a couple of Retractable Banner Stands, flags and a covered table. Simply set up a table with an attractive cover, flank it with banner stands to inform the customers what is available there then and position some flags to highlight the space. A small register and a card machine and that is everything you need to create this time saving and productive space.

It is important to ensure you don’t overcomplicate it though – keep it to a small number of popular items. Ensure they are small enough to store comfortably so restocking is not a constant issue. I see this as being ideal for smaller stores who get exceptionally busy occasionally. It may not be a permanent fixture but as the succession of holidays approach, this idea is well worth considering.

Does your Busy Store Need Some Help in Implementation?

At Colorado Canopies, we know all about design, layout, and positioning of installations like described above. What’s more, we are happy to help you find the best solution for your needs and space. Contact us soon to discuss how we can help – “Do-nut” leave it until the last minute.