Finally figured out why brick-and-mortar stores are getting harder and harder to do. I went to a mobile phone repair shop to change the battery, and the cheapest ** cost 150 yuan.
Then I checked it on the Internet and found a battery with tools, the cheapest is only 60 yuan, and free shipping. And the slightly better battery is only about 80 yuan, and it is also free shipping. The price of the physical store is as high as 150 yuan, and he sighs that he can't make money. This price difference is too exaggerated, isn't it?
Perhaps the operating costs of brick-and-mortar stores are relatively high, including store rent, employee salaries, utility costs, etc., which directly affect the pricing of goods. In addition, brick-and-mortar stores also need to maintain the store image and provide after-sales service, which will also increase costs.
In contrast, online sales are usually less costly. Merchants have improved their competitiveness by reducing intermediate links, warehousing and labor costs, etc., so they can provide goods at a lower price.
But that doesn't mean brick-and-mortar stores are doomed. Some brick-and-mortar stores have successfully attracted a certain group of consumers by providing better services, value-added additional services, and improving the shopping experience. At the same time, some goods are still more suitable for purchase in physical stores due to the needs of after-sales service, quality assurance, etc.
Choosing to buy online and replace the battery yourself is indeed a convenient and economical option. But also take into account some of the services that the physical store may provide, such as professional installation, after-sales guarantee, etc.
In general, while adapting to market competition, businesses also need to think about how to increase their added value to better meet the needs of consumers. This may include efforts in terms of service, experience, quality, etc., to retain customers.