In the latest Sam Shares, Sam and John discuss the shift from local, niche systems to unified commerce solutions like Shopify for retailers. This blog is a recap of their conversation.

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Consumer expectations keep on rising - and that's a challenge retailers have to face. In the past, many relied (and still do!) on niche, local systems. And while those did serve them once, they often introduce inefficiencies that can hinder growth. Enter unified commerce: a compelling solution, offering streamlined operations and better customer experiences.

Connect/disconnect

Many small to medium-sized retailers operate with different systems for online sales (think WooCommerce) and physical point-of-sale (POS), leading to operational challenges. Because those often are not synced, this results in manual data entry, a time-consuming process that no one wants to do.

But it gets even worse. Managing gift cards, online versus physical store experiences, and inventory across multiple platforms becomes increasingly complex when systems are not synced. This fragmentation creates inconsistencies in the customer journey and increases operational overhead. Especially for smaller teams, this means a great loss of time and resources. 

The strategic advantage of connection

Unified commerce solutions, such as Shopify, offer a strategic advantage by integrating online, B2B, and in-store sales into a centralised platform. This integration streamlines operations and enhances efficiency across all channels. By automating inventory updates, enabling seamless gift card redemption, and centralising customer data, unified commerce empowers retailers to deliver a more personalised and consistent customer experience.

For smaller retailers, this really can make a difference. By minimising manual data entry and streamlining processes, unified commerce systems free up valuable time and resources - allowing for more meaningful work.

Adapt or bust

In the past, local systems were often enough to meet local expectations. However, the proliferation of e-commerce and global brands has raised the bar. Customers now expect a seamless, unified experience regardless of where they shop. Retailers relying on outdated, disconnected systems risk falling behind, potentially offering a user experience that feels cumbersome compared to the seamless interactions customers have come to expect from larger platforms.

Ditch the data entry

Transitioning to a unified commerce system involves more than just a technological upgrade - it requires careful change management. Many retailers have established long-term relationships with local vendors. The prospect of migrating to a more global system can be daunting, hence why strategic support might be a good idea.

Agencies can play a vital role in facilitating this transition, acting as a bridge between retailers and platforms like Shopify. By offering local support and expertise, agencies can guide retailers through the implementation process and ensure a smooth transition. Specifically, agencies can help retailers:

• Articulate the benefits of unified commerce within their specific business context.
• Implement and customise the system to align with their unique requirements.
• Provide ongoing support and training to maximise system utilisation.

Focus and commitment

For retailers, effective management of inventory and staff represents important areas for cost optimisation. Efficient inventory management is essential to minimise capital tied up in unsold stock, while strategic staff scheduling is crucial for maximising profitability.

Unified commerce systems, when implemented effectively, can provide the reporting and insights needed to optimise both inventory and staff management. While larger platforms may not always address the specific needs of local markets, agencies (like us!) can provide tailored solutions and support to bridge this gap.

While the transition to unified commerce is generally straightforward for online-only businesses, physical retailers often encounter greater challenges due to established processes and habits. Overcoming these obstacles is not impossible, but you'll need to be committed to the change.