(Australia-NewsWire.Com, October 08, 2012 ) Redbank Plains, QLD -- The site “Franchising,” which covers retail-related topics and news in Australia, released a story about how retailers are faring against the stiff competition of online retailers. The story focused on how “brick and mortar” businesses are competing against the online marketplace, which continues to grow in popularity for many shoppers.
According to research conducted by “Franchising,” shopping is very important for most Australians, but their methods are becoming increasingly based in the world of technology. The Australian National Retailers Association (ANRA) released research showing that nearly one-fourth of Australian consumers have used a phone app to assist them in their shopping experience, and 38 percent of shoppers report comparing prices online.
Margy Osmond, CEO of ANRA, told “Franchising” that signs of increasing retail sales are positive, but retailers must find ways to appeal to shoppers who may be looking online for their purchases. “Retail has been in the doldrums for some time and we are beginning to see the much discussed green shoots of recovery in 2012 with consistent, positive growth in retailing which is both welcome and long overdue."
QLD Bedding and Furniture, located in Redbank Plains, is a furniture, bedding and home décor store offering everything from recliner suites in Brisbane to bedroom furniture. The owners of QLD say that retail sales data is encouraging, and they are finding creative ways to cope with Australians’ tendency to shop online.
“We definitely have seen the increase in online retailers affect a lot of our competitors,” said the store owner, “and that’s why we’ve really increased our push to provide the best customer service possible. That’s how we’ve managed to stay successful, against online retailers. Our personalized, customer service is something that we are always going to be able to offer, that online retailers won’t be able to compete with.”
The owners of the furniture store feel that although the online marketplace is great for some shoppers, for many it is still about the experience they get from shopping, and if they continue to provide a great experience, they will always be able to remain competitive against online competitors.
“There are some people who are going to shop online no matter what; perhaps it’s a matter of convenience, or maybe they just don’t enjoy the experience of shopping, and for those people, we may not be the best option, but for the majority of people looking to purchase products in a retail setting, shopping isn’t just about the purchase, it’s also about the experience,” said the store owner. “We feel this is particularly true when it comes to home furnishings. There are issues of size and scale that you may not have to about when it comes to purchasing a shirt. It may not be as easy to purchase something like a dining suite or a queen pillowtop mattress in Brisbane, without having an idea of how large the furniture you’re purchasing is going to be, and whether or not it’s going to work in the room where it’ll be placed. We feel that furniture is something that’s very difficult to purchase online for these reasons, and also it’s an investment, so many shoppers want to work with an individual, in a personalized setting before they make an investment for the interior of their home.” When asked if he feels the online marketplace will take over their business, the owner of QLD Bedding and Furniture is confident in his response.
“As long as we continue to offer great products, with great service, and face-to-face attention, we’re always going to have something that online retailers don’t have,” said the store owner. “That’s why I don’t worry about our online competition.”
About the Company ALD Bedding and Furniture is a Queensland, family owned and operated business. They offer the most affordable furniture and bedding, including mattresses of all sizes in Brisbane. They are the place to shop for smart savings and an affordable lifestyle, with furniture from local manufacturers as well as international furniture companies.