In the busy landscape of appliance stores in the Philippines, shopping can be both a hassle and an enjoyable task depending on the type of consumer that you are. Now that we are living in fast-paced modern times. The world of shopping has evolved and has now offered numerous ways for consumers to avail and purchase products.
Now, consumers have a choice whether to shop online or visit a physical store to purchase items. This has now sparked an ongoing debate about which method offers customers the best deals in the market, and which one offers more value for clients.
So come along as we dive further into this comparative study. Let’s tackle each key point, and understand better the differences of each element in both the traditional and digital setting.
Accessibility and Convenience
One of the things that make it easy for consumers to shop in appliance stores is that it is accessible and convenient. The more that a store is easy to find, accessible, and nearer to customers, the more likely that a store is going to thrive and gain notoriety.
Now let’s look at accessibility and convenience from a traditional and digital perspective. Which one is more advantageous to our lifestyle?
Traditional Stores
Traditional stores can provide a more hands-on client experience. Since a physical store requires consumers to enter its premises. The customers have the option to personally ask staff for recommendations and more in-depth product details.
Also, the traditional setting will allow clients to test products right away on the same day. This leads to a more informed decision and an overall satisfactory purchase.
Online Stores
Online shopping also provides a convenient way of purchasing items, differently. This allows customers to browse products on their phones, from the comforts of their homes.
Unlike traditional stores, online shopping can be done at any time; customers have 24/7 access to the items. If you’re somebody who is very busy and doesn’t have the time or luxury to travel to a physical store, this is the best shopping option for you.
The only downside to this is, you cannot test products on the same day. You can only wait until it arrives to check if it is in working condition. If it isn’t, you need to have it returned and wait again for another delivery.
Product Range and Availability
Product range and availability is a selection of products that may or may not be available in the appliance store (e.g. stock A, stock B). The traditional and online shops differ when it comes to this.
Let’s read on further to have a more in-depth understanding of this.
Traditional Stores
Traditional stores are convenient in their way but we do face some difficulty sometimes when the product is not available due to it being out of stock.
This can be frustrating for consumers, especially those who have traveled far just to purchase a specific product.
Online Stores
When it comes to product range and availability, online shops are thriving. Consumers don’t have to worry about items being unavailable for a longer period because online stores have no difficulty quickly restocking products.
Since online shops in the country are mostly retail shops, sold-out products are quite common. This is because they buy from wholesalers in smaller quantities and sell products individually to consumers, thus pushing online stores to restock more quickly.
Pricing and Discounts
Appliance stores in the Philippines are commonly known to give out discounts. Each store forms healthy competition with other appliance shops. Which leads them to create more promotions and zero to low-cost interest rates.
In addition to this, you’ll find that these stores also provide installments, financing, as well as sales. Sales are usually seen during a particular month or during holidays.
Traditional Stores
Traditional appliance stores often give out discounts and promos. However, it should be noted that some stores increase prices right before a sale. Which in turn can be misleading, and cause very little difference in prices in times of sales.
Also, these discounts are often in limited scope, and there are chances that they may no longer be available. This is because discounted items are usually what’s left from the stock and stores are disposing of them to make room for newer inventories.
Lastly, to get the best deals, customers will have to spend more time and money just traveling from one store to another.
Online Stores
The beauty of purchasing from online stores is that they have lower overhead costs. This allows retailers to offer more discounted products and very competitive prices.
In addition, having no physical stores means that retailers don’t have to pay leases or rent, and they don’t usually worry about payroll and fixtures. This is why it’s so easy for online shops to have lower-cost items.
Unlike traditional stores, consumers don’t have to worry about comparing prices and discounts as they can simply browse through their phones or computers without having to travel.
Customer Service and Support
Customer service and support is a very helpful part of any business or establishment. All appliance stores have customer service due to the countless customers who want more in-depth product details.
Furthermore, it’s always good to ask experienced staff specifics about the item, as well as advice and recommendations that you may use to make more informed decisions when shopping for appliances.
Traditional Stores
Traditional stores shine when it comes to customer service. This is because consumers get to interact with the staff, thus leading to a more detailed description of products. As we all know, rapport is always key to good interaction and traditional stores have experienced employees who assist customers in need.
Additionally, when a customer wants to return an item, they can easily do so as long as they have the receipt with them. This is less of a hassle when compared to online returns which can take longer.
Online Stores
Online shopping does not give you the option to interact with a store employee for product details on a personal level. However, it does provide you the option to message retailers or online sellers through chat and email. The downside to this is that they may not reply on the spot.
Additionally, like traditional stores, you can return products easily if items delivered are wrong or with defects, but it does take a little bit longer to process. Nevertheless, they still offer flexible return policies, so if waiting for days is not an issue, then online shopping might be a good fit for you.
Key Takeaway
Now that we’ve compared the different aspects of traditional and digital (online) methods of shopping, maneuvering your way through the busy landscape of appliance stores in the Philippines can be done with ease.
You are now armed with multiple key ingredients to be able to shop without the hassle. Whether you’re the type of consumer who prefers to shop online or the type to visit a physical store, you can use this comparative study to guide you.
Ultimately, both traditional and digital appliance stores in the Philippines offer unique advantages and disadvantages that affect shopping. Thus, from convenience and accessibility to customer service and support, this newfound information can help weigh your options for a better shopping experience!
