Are you managing a shop, restaurant, café, bar, entertainment venue, or any other physical location that relies on foot traffic? If so, you’re likely always on the lookout for innovative ways to attract more customers to your business.
From social media advertising to building brand loyalty, there are numerous strategies modern businesses can employ to generate consumer interest. But how do you draw in customers directly from the street? Both exterior and interior design play crucial roles in attracting customers. Here are four design hacks to increase foot traffic and boost sales opportunities.
Introduce plants and greenery
Plants have become a staple in contemporary design. Greenery is a prominent feature in almost all modern design plans, and for good reason. People love plants—they’re proven mood enhancers that promote feelings of happiness. By incorporating plant life, you can make your premises more inviting.
Most stores, restaurants, and other commercial venues are located in urban settings like shopping centers or high streets, where natural greenery is scarce. However, there are ways to bring nature to your doorstep.
Commercial planters allow businesses to create attractive green spaces, adding a garden-like vibe that draws people in, even in the heart of the city. These planters can transform your exterior and interior spaces into eye-catching, nature-inspired areas that attract customers.
Add sustainability
Environmentalism and sustainability are more important than ever. According to recent studies, 88% of customers prefer to buy from businesses that are making a positive environmental impact, even if it means paying more. Demonstrating your commitment to sustainability can significantly increase customer interest.
Waste is a design flaw.
Kate Kreba
How can you visually represent your eco-friendly practices? Consider integrating solar panels, using recycled materials for cladding, tables, chairs, or shelves, and incorporating sustainable lighting solutions. Be proud of your eco-friendly efforts and make them visible. Display signs highlighting your sustainability initiatives, similar to how restaurants display hygiene ratings. This transparency can attract eco-conscious customers to your business.
Monitor design trends
Design trends are always changing. For instance, while real plants are popular, fake plants have seen a decline in interest. Staying updated with the latest design trends is crucial for attracting customers.
Whether it’s modern aesthetics or industrial vibes, there’s always a new trend to consider. It’s essential to adapt to these shifts rather than sticking to outdated personal preferences. Customers are drawn to contemporary and appealing designs. If your business aligns with current design trends, you’re more likely to attract and engage customers.
For example, a new restaurant designed around modern minimalism will likely be more attractive to consumers than one that hasn’t been updated since the 1990s. Keeping your design fresh and relevant can make a significant difference in customer attraction.
Unique window displays
Window displays are a traditional yet powerful marketing tool. However, many businesses fail to utilize them effectively. A well-executed window display can be a prime opportunity to showcase your business and attract passersby.
Consumers often ignore familiar and generic displays. To stand out, your window display needs to be unique and captivating. According to Shopify, a successful window display “should tell a bold story based on a clearly defined theme”. It should have a clear message and focal point, balancing visual appeal with relevance to your products.
By creating an innovative and eye-catching window display, you can grab the attention of potential customers and encourage them to explore your business further.
To sum it up
Effective design, both exterior and interior, can significantly enhance your business’s ability to attract customers. By incorporating plants, embracing sustainability, staying current with design trends, and creating unique window displays, you can create a welcoming and engaging environment that draws people in. These strategies not only increase foot traffic but also create more opportunities to showcase your products and services, ultimately leading to increased sales and business growth.
Brittany Anas
Adedoyin Ogunmola
David Ryckman
