WHAT MESSAGE IS THE CLEANLINESS OF YOUR CONVENIENCE STORE SENDING TO YOUR CUSTOMERS?
Cleanliness has always been important in the convenience store industry, because it is one of the primary factors determining whether someone will visit your store for a second time. Now though, it is something everyone is even more aware of in light of the COVID pandemic we have been dealing with. If customers see that you do not take cleanliness seriously, they might take it personally, feeling upset that you don’t care about their safety.
DISINFECTION AND INDOOR SPACES
To help you renew your efforts to maintain a clean environment inside your store, here are a few suggestions:
- Disinfect customer touch points frequently, especially those in high-traffic areas
- Always keep your cleaning supplies well-stocked
- Focus extra on cleaning bathrooms more often – nasty bathrooms are always an unpleasant experience!
DON’T FORGET THE OUTSIDE OF YOUR C-STORE
While this might be less obvious, connected to the theme of cleanliness, it is also important to pay attention to the outside of your store. This is where your customers form their first impressions of your business. Not only is that the first thing the customers see, but they will tend to think that the inside will be dirty if the exterior is not well cared for.
Here are a few tips for maintaining strong curb appeal:
- Power wash your sidewalks and pump area whenever they start to look worn-out or dingy
- Stay on top of your weeds – this is a must!
- If you have grass, mow it frequently
- While not necessary, planting a few pots of flowers or adding some small bushes to your landscaping is always a nice touch.
People have choices when it comes to where they shop. Every element of their experience with you affects your ability to earn and keep their business. Keeping a clean store, inside and out, is one of the first and most impactful things you can do to attract and retain customers.