How to Help Make Your Business COVID-Proof

For the past few months, Gearo has been working with retailers across the U.S. to equip them with the tools they need to do business with their customers at a social distance. In doing so, we have also been learning about opportunities for the upcoming seasons, as well as what retailers are doing in shop to work with current restrictions. We wanted to share some suggestions as we continue to battle COVID-19.

01. Automate your processes

With most states limiting the amount of people allowed in a shop at a time, it is important to take advantage of resources that can save you time and money. By giving customers the option to check out your gear online, you can communicate with your customers without having to spend all day on the phone to coordinate pick up times and dates. You can learn more about Gearo Automator here.

02. Increase your online presence

Make your business readily accessible by investing some time into your online presence. According to Adaptive Marketing, 97% of consumers use the internet to find a business. It is more important than ever to give your customers the information they need about your shop before they come in. This is especially important if you are operating under shortened or restricted hours – give customers the option to purchase or rent gear outside of store hours! A few ideas:

1. 1. Be active online and on social media
   2. Make sure your Google listing is updated with adjusted hours or delivery options
   3. Optimize your website to be mobile-friendly
   4. Join Gearo as a lead generation platform and drive more foot traffic to your shop!

03. Create trade-in programs with your customers

You don’t need us to tell you there is high demand for outdoor gear with people itching to get out of the house. Many shops have sold off their inventory and are waiting on backlogged inventory to arrive. However, you can create trade-in programs with your customers that buys their old gear and gives them credit toward new gear. Plenty of customers are looking for less expensive gear, especially as they are trying new activities outside. 

04. Fit your customers in advance

Encourage your customers to get fitted for their gear before the winter season takes off. This will help you avoid long lines of customers waiting for gear and be able to send your customers off with their gear quickly and easily. Reach out to us if you would like us to build out a landing page for you to advertise this to your customers.

05. Get creative

The exact definition of “essential” can vary depending on your location, but businesses across the country have been deemed essential because they provide groceries, health or financial support, utilities or transportation. If your shop doesn’t have bikes, consider investing in adding frozen food to your store. In case of another shutdown, the food section of your store can qualify you to stay open (this will vary based on your county/state).



Any tips or tricks that we missed? Drop us a comment and let us know! We are always looking for more ways to empower your store and be a resource hub.