Consistency is important for some aspects of a grocery store. You always want to stock products people need and keep prices affordable. However, grocery stores can still make changes, especially to the overall customer experience. As a grocery store becomes more enjoyable to shop at, people are often more likely to return time after time to shop there. Making small changes over time can make your store a more vibrant spot to shop and keep your customers coming back as regular shoppers.

1. Make It Easy

Simplicity is a key when it comes to customer experience at a grocery store. Avoid letting much get in the way of people buying things. If you’re not sure how easy or hard it is to shop at your store, try taking a walkthrough to understand for yourself. If, for instance, your carts have squeaky, stuck or broken wheels, try replacing the hamilton casters on your carts. The ability to navigate the store quickly and smoothly with a cart can be very appealing to many customers. 

2. Make It Pretty

Even before people come inside your store, they see it. That first impression is hard to get past, so you want to make sure it’s a good one. Periodically touch up paint and finishing inside and outside your store for the best possible impression on all shoppers. Consider making sidewalk, curb and parking lot repairs as well to combine accessibility with aesthetics.

3. Make It Clear

Customers will be looking for an obvious layout with easy-to-find products. Even if you don’t want to move things around, you can help them by expanding your shelving units with bigger, wider spaces to display products. Making it clear where things are located with nothing in the way or in front can make your store feel brand new and improve the navigation experience. If you feel like you can improve the layout somewhat, consider starting by mapping the current layout. Mark the direction of foot traffic and where people tend to congregate, and you’ll give yourself an idea of what fixes you should make.

While keeping some things consistent and regular is important for your store, don’t let yourself become too stagnant. Periodic changes are good and can make customers feel as if there’s an exciting adventure waiting for them every time they come to your store. Keeping people coming back can give you a good customer base for years.