Providing a great in-store experience isn’t always easy, especially if you’re an SME owner with limited staff and resources. The truth is that shoppers today want more than just a quick transaction. They’re also looking for a visit that feels pleasant and memorable, something they don’t usually get when they order online. Without this, customers are more likely to move on to other options, no matter how good your products are.
That’s why focusing on the in-store experience matters just as much as the products on your shelves. The good news is, there are plenty of small but impactful ways to make your store stand out without stretching your budget. Having the right tools is a great place to start, and that’s where Maya can help. Maya Business solutions simplify your daily operations while giving customers a smoother, more convenient shopping experience. The result is a win-win: easier store management for you and a better experience for your customers. With that in mind, here are some simple changes you can start applying today to deliver an in-store experience that keeps customers coming back.
1. Use QR Codes for Faster Payments
Nobody likes waiting in long lines just to pay. With QR code payments, customers can settle their purchases quickly and securely with just a scan on their phones. This cuts down on cash handling and helps prevent congestion at the counter during busy hours. It’s one of the modern payment methods you should be able to accept these days. By accepting ewallet, QR code, or card payments, you save customers’ time and maybe even encourage them to buy a little more.
That said, it's important to remember that payment QR codes come in two types: static and dynamic. Maya QR lets you generate a unique static QR code for your business through a free Maya QR kit. When your customers scan this code, they'll be prompted to enter the payment amount directly into their app. To conveniently accept QR code payments, Philippine merchants often display their static QR codes on standees or posters at the checkout counters.
Dynamic QR codes, on the other hand, can be generated through a POS device like the Maya Terminal. To process a payment, the cashier first enters the payment amount on the POS device, and then, using their phone, the customer scans the code generated to complete the transaction.
Understanding how both types function helps you take full advantage of their benefits and makes payments smoother for every customer.
2. Organize Products for Easy Navigation
A well-organized store can turn a simple shopping trip into a smooth and enjoyable experience. Thus, make sure to group products by type or category and use clear signs or labels so customers can quickly find what they need. Placing popular items near entrances or high-traffic areas can also guide the flow and encourage shoppers to explore other products. These may seem like small tweaks, but a clear and thoughtful layout makes a big difference in how comfortable and stress-free it feels to move around your store.
3. Train Staff to Offer Friendly Recommendations and Guidance
Your staff plays a crucial role in the shopping experience. Training them to greet customers warmly, answer questions confidently, and suggest helpful products adds a personal touch that online stores can’t replicate. Make sure they’re also prepared to assist customers during payment, such as guiding a customer in scanning a QR code. Even small gestures like these can make customers feel valued and looked after.
Encouraging staff to engage with shoppers naturally and positively can lead to repeat visits and higher spending. When customers feel welcomed and supported, they’re more likely to enjoy their visit and leave with a sense of satisfaction that keeps them coming back.
4. Improve Store Cleanliness and Comfort
The overall environment of your store greatly influences how customers feel when they visit. A tidy, well-lit space with organized shelves and a comfortable temperature makes shoppers feel welcome and encourages them to browse longer. Consider adding small touches as well, such as seasonal decorations, relaxing background music, and subtle scents that create a pleasant atmosphere. These details tend to stick in customers’ minds and can even be what sets your store apart from others that didn’t go the extra mile.
5. Offer Small Perks at Checkout
Little gestures can go a long way in leaving a positive impression. Consider giving a thank-you note, a small freebie with a minimum purchase, or a bonus for signing up for a newsletter or following your social media. These gestures show customers that you value their support, which improves satisfaction and encourages repeat visits.
6. Create a Simple Loyalty Program
Rewarding repeat customers is another smart way to enhance their in-store experience. Even a low-cost program, such as a stamp card for small discounts, can make a big difference. It gives customers a reason to choose your store over competitors and over online shopping, knowing that they’ll receive extra value when visiting in-store.
To make your loyalty program more appealing, keep its mechanics simple and easy to understand. This ensures participation feels effortless and makes earning rewards enjoyable rather than a chore. Overall, small rewards and recognition help customers feel appreciated, encouraging them to return and continue building up their rewards.
Make In-Store Shopping Better with Maya QR
Improving in-store experience doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Small, practical changes can be just as effective, especially when they make shopping easier and more enjoyable for your customers. Having the right tools like Maya QR can help simplify payments and speed up checkout, giving customers a smoother experience. Sign up for Maya Business to get your own free Maya QR kit and generate a unique code for your business.
Setting up a Maya Business account also lets you open a Maya Business Deposit account that you can use as a settlement account. With its market-leading 2.5% p.a. interest rate, you’ll earn PHP 25,000 in interest per year on a PHP 1 million deposit. On top of that, you can send money to your partners and suppliers for free via InstaPay and PESONet, which adds more to your everyday savings.
Signing up also qualifies you for a no-collateral Maya Flexi Loan offer of up to PHP 2 million in just 3 months, which can help further improve your store and operations. Make sure to use Maya as your primary processor for all wallet and card payments. The more you use our solutions, the better your loan offer can become.
Sign up for Maya Business today to enjoy the benefits of Maya Business solutions, helping you deliver a better in-store customer experience every step of the way.
