Service merchandising has been a popular business model for decades, but with the rise of e-commerce and direct-to-consumer (DTC) brands, many people are questioning its relevance today. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of service merchandising, along with real-life examples to help you decide if it’s right for your business.
Service merchandising involves selling a product or service along with another product or service that complements it, creating a seamless experience for customers. While this model can help businesses stand out from their competitors and increase customer loyalty, it also requires additional resources and investment in infrastructure, such as shipping, logistics, and customer support.
Real-life examples of companies that have successfully implemented service merchandising include Warby Parker and Peloton. Warby Parker offers free shipping and returns, as well as a virtual try-on feature to help customers choose the perfect frame for their face shape and style. Additionally, Warby Parker provides ongoing support and assistance through its customer service team and community forum, making it easy for customers to continue using their products even after they’ve made their purchase.
Peloton is another example of a company that has successfully implemented service merchandising. In addition to its core offerings, Peloton provides ongoing support and assistance through its customer service team and community forum, as well as additional services like personalized workout plans and nutrition coaching. This helps customers get the most out of their investment in Peloton’s products and creates a sense of loyalty and commitment to the brand.
While service merchandising may not be right for every business, it can still be a valuable tool for companies looking to differentiate themselves from their competitors and create a seamless experience for their customers. As e-commerce continues to grow and more consumers shop online, we’re likely to see even more innovative examples of service merchandising emerge in the coming years.
FAQs:
What is service merchandising?
Service merchandising involves selling a product or service along with another product or service that complements it.
Why is service merchandising important?
Service merchandising can help businesses stand out from their competitors and create a unique value proposition for customers.
What are some real-life examples of service merchandising?
Warby Parker and Peloton are both examples of companies that have successfully implemented service merchandising as part of their business strategy.
Is service merchandising right for every business?
No, service merchandising may not be the best fit for every business. It requires additional resources and investment in infrastructure, such as shipping, logistics, and customer support, and it can be difficult to predict which products or services will be most popular with customers.