f you recognise that your newsagency needs a transformation and your business data isn’t in great shape, there are practical steps you can take within your store to drive change.
Often, businesses in this situation have a traditional shop layout. The advice below is designed to challenge your current setup. It’s radical and straightforward, intended to shake things up and help you see new possibilities.
Remember, change is ongoing. Implement these suggestions, observe the results, learn, and adapt. Your store needs to constantly evolve.
Step One: Reconsider the Newspaper and Magazine Unit
If you have a traditional magazine fixture dominating your store with newspapers facing customers as they enter, remove it entirely. Don’t overthink it; take it out. This prime retail space should showcase higher-margin products.
Replace it with basic shelving. Place magazines on the back wall and newspapers on a bottom shelf. Discard any newspaper or magazine posters as they don’t boost sales.
Step Two: Fill the Empty Space
Use old tables or boxes to create display areas and tell product stories. Bring products to the forefront that customers might overlook. Consider inexpensive options like op shops, your garage, or discount stores. Avoid using spinners in this new space.
Include products you’re proud of, as well as items you think might not work. This helps you understand your customers better. Be prepared to adjust displays weekly if needed.
Step Three: Observe and Adapt
The changes might not work initially. That’s okay. Keep experimenting until you see positive results. If you find early success, build on it.
Given the traditional layout of many newsagencies, I anticipate positive outcomes. One newsagent I know even celebrated the removal of their old magazine unit with a sausage sizzle and chainsaw!
The main goal is to challenge your perspective. Disrupting your store will force you to think differently. These changes can be personally rewarding, even if the business benefits aren’t immediate.
Have fun with the process.
