Does Try-Before-You-Buy Actually Work in Retail?

The concept of “try before you buy” is becoming increasingly popular, considering the different sizes of online shops that offer it. Consumers want to be more committed to the product they’re about to purchase, so why wouldn’t they try before they buy? Read more on the psychology behind this newer trend and how you can help support it in your own store.

The Growing Importance of Try-Before-You-Buy

The idea of trying before you buy is quite simple. Customers try on products before deciding to make a purchase. This concept is most often used in clothing stores but can benefit stores selling shoes, hats, or other apparel. With less interaction in online stores, consumers seek reassurance more and more in physical retail shops. This can be used to your advantage.

Building Trust and Confidence

On a psychological level, the try-before-you-buy method creates confidence and trust in buyers. When customers have the opportunity to test a product, they feel more confident in purchasing it. This can reduce buyers’ remorse and make them feel satisfied with shopping with your brand. To help encourage buyers to do this, have appealing store displays that show them where the fitting rooms are or simply a sign that says, “Go ahead and try it on!”

Navigating Challenges and Drawbacks

Of course, with any retail strategy, there can be challenges. Customers don’t like inconvenience, so if trying on an item takes a lot of time out of their day, they may avoid it altogether. Also, many people find returning items cumbersome, which can lead to lower retention rates. So, be aware of what customers think when they shop in your store and prepare to tackle these kinds of frustrations.

Related Article: What is Experiential Retail?

The Role of Store Fixtures and Mannequins

In actual physical stores, mannequins and store fixtures play a huge role in encouraging shoppers to try before you buy. These types of displays can give the customer an idea of how an outfit will look or how it can be styled. The try-before-you-buy model shows customers how these outfits can actually fit and if they’re worth purchasing. This strategy can reduce hesitation and increase buying confidence across all your customer demographics.

Summary

If you’re considering implementing the try-before-you-buy approach to your store, shop Specialty Store Services for retail fixtures, mannequins, and displays to improve your overall shopping experience. Setting your store apart from others and giving your customers every opportunity to enjoy your retail space is paramount to increasing revenue.

Overall, the try-before-you-buy model is poised to become a staple in retail. However, a balanced approach is important. Retailers must make sure that the benefits outweigh the potential challenges. Businesses can meet evolving customer expectations by continuously improving the customer experience. Please explore our site today and learn how we can enhance your retail space with our retail solutions!