In the ever-changing world of convenience services, Vending and Office Coffee Service (OCS) operators are always looking for new ideas to make their businesses better. That’s why we recently attended a webinar about the “Products and Equipment that will be game changers in 2024.” So, we want to share the key points we learned.
If you want to stand out from other convenience service operators, this blog is for you. Let’s explore the most important lessons that can make your business better this year.
Think Outside the Box
The idea of a “game-changer” is about being different. In a world full of common snacks and drinks, you need to think: What makes us special? It’s time to change things up and be curious. Think about what fueled your early business success. Beyond the standard bean-to-cup offerings, think about creating memorable experiences for your customers. You can do this through events, promotions (i.e. ice cream Fridays), and shared moments. This is a great way to make a happy workplace for your customers.
Always Put Customers First
The modern customer wants more than just the usual snacks and drinks. They also want products and equipment, as well as a custom shopping experience. You can deliver great break room services with fun promotions and personalized touches. This will make a big difference. It can even help retain clients and keep them happy in the long run. Think about their needs and offer solutions before they even ask about it. This will change your role from a vendor to a trusted partner. As a result, you can strengthen the relationship. It’s the small things that make an impact!
Tap into the Hospitality Industry
Some workplaces are turning into hospitality environments. For good reason, too. It’s important to take care of your team at work. And operators need to follow that trend by offering the best products and equipment. How can you do this? You can give your customers personalized experiences with your break room services, products, and equipment. They will find this valuable, and they will keep your services to make their team members happy.
Find inspiration in the World of Retail
Winning in unattended retail at work means gaining more shoppers. This is why elevating impulse buying in today’s convenience services landscape is important. The bottom line is that if an idea works in retail, then it might work in the workplace too.
Put the Products on Display
Make it easy for customers to purchase refreshments by putting the best snacks on display. Shoppers will love a display of ice cream, gummies, candy, and more. Put them near the kiosk or other product categories to increase sales. And guess what? Displays and signs inspired unplanned purchases for 46% of in-store shoppers. Product selection is important, and you should have a retail approach to sales in the workplace.
Here are some other ideas: Use power brands, such as M&Ms and Snickers, as signposts to increase noticeability. This will make it easy for shoppers to see their go-to snacks, and make them want to buy them. Illuminate certain products at checkout. In fact, sales of products lit up at checkout went up 20%. In short, create a welcoming shopping experience with unique ideas and make pricing irrelevant to your clients.
Order Products and Supplies Online
In today’s world, making things convenient for clients is critical to your business. Beyond product selection and placement, you’ll need to make it easy for your office coffee and pantry delivery customers to buy products from you. If you’re not offering an online ordering system, your clients will find someone who does. Streamline your business with an intuitive online ordering platform where clients can order snacks, beverages, fresh food, sundries, and essential supplies for the workplace. Reach out to us to see how we can help.
Ready to learn more? Contact us today to get started!