Omnichannel retail, the new challenge for the high street

Omnichannel retailing: sell more, spend less

For the first time in retail history, customers are asking to do things that many merchants cannot support. Modern consumers want to to buy online but pick up (or return) at the store. They want to browse product information on their laptop or smartphone, get coupons or discount codes, even make a purchase on their mobile phone while in a store. New consumers are naturally combining channels as they browse, research and buy. And believe it or not, early omnichannel adopters are supporting all of these desires – and reaping the benefits.

Multichannel versus omnichannel

Omnichannel retailing goes far beyond multichannel. Multichannel simply means you sell to and communicate with customers through multiple channels, but with little integration among online, mobile and in-store experiences, devices and systems. Many say that omnichannel is multichannel done right. Omnichannel means providing a seamless experience as you sell to, communicate and interact with customers through integrated online, mobile and in-store experiences, devices and systems. It relies on a true integration of all channels, not just an ad hoc cobbling together of different systems. But once channels are truly integrated, the potential for retail success is much greater than the sum of all channels.

Lightspeed provides retailers with the simplest way to build, manage, and grow your business all while creating a better customer experience. Their mission is to help independent brands prosper and ensure the high street remains a diverse, entrepreneurial and vibrant place.