Earlier this year, we took a closer look at the growing trend of
retailers accepting returns. Not just accepting returns from their stores but
from other mostly online retailers who may not have a physical presence In that
particular consumer’s area. Consumers want fast and easy returns, and the more
options they have to make returns, the better. in the article, we looked at the partnership of Amazon
and Kohl’s and how the program of accepting Amazon returns at Kohl’s locations
significantly benefitted the retailer by driving up instore sales. It stands to
reason; a consumer makes an Amazon purchase goes to Kohl’s to return it, then
figures I’m here might as well do a bit of shopping while I am out.
Major retailers are also starting to embrace the flow of traffic
in the opposite direction as well. A diverse assortment of retailers like CVS,
Walgreens, Michaels, and Advance Auto Parts have in the last few years begun to
accept and hold deliveries shipped by other retailers. They are doing it for
many of the same reasons as those accepting returns. It brings customers into
their doors who may spend some dollars shopping while picking up their other
purchases.
Some consumers may feel a bit wary about picking up their new
iPhone at a third-party retailer, such as the local drugstore, but there are
some significant benefits. They do not have to be present to sign for a high
dollar delivery, and there is no risk of the package being lifted from their
doorstep by some random passerby in the event the item does not require a
signature. The primary selling point to your average consumer is the peace of
mind, plus it’s a great way to keep that special birthday or holiday gift a
secret until the time is right.
This is a trend that everyone in online retail benefits from
even independent retailers like our readers. It is an added convenience factor
for online shoppers to suit their shopping needs better and at the same time,
costs the seller nothing. More convenience means more likely to spend.
One last note for our Foxliquidation customers, you too, can
benefit when shopping for your liquidation needs. When shopping for smaller
wholesale lots that are shipped ground service, you have the option of picking
up from any designated FedEx delivery location like participating Walgreens
locations. Rates for delivery to commercial addresses such as these are
significantly lower than residential deliveries, and you never have to worry
about missing a delivery ever again.