The chain store management consists of a set of actions that aim to organize the marketing and distribution processes that are established in two or more stores.
In fact, a store chain is defined by the existence of two or more stores with very similar characteristics and that are also linked to the same company or organization.
Managing a chain of stores this is not an easy task at all. To do so, it is necessary to design an efficient logistics system that allows to control and manage all the processes that are carried out in each of the stores together.
In this article I want to show you the most important elements about managing a chain of stores to apply this knowledge in your business practice.
Table of Contents
What is a chain of stores?
A chain of stores or commercial chain is determined by a group of businesses under the same brand or company name. They usually have a centralized management and equal methods of trade and distribution.
The most common examples of chain stores can be found in the fashion niches (clothing stores), food (food stores), among others. There are numerous types of store chains, with franchises being one of the best known.
But, to redound on the definition of a chain of stores is not my objective in this article, but I prefer to talk about what has been the management and administration of a commercial chain.
The most important elements in the management of a chain of stores
As I pointed out earlier, the most important thing store chain management is the design of a joint and planned strategy that takes into account all aspects related to the ordering, sale, distribution and storage of products.
One of the most important elements is the technological platform, through which all these processes are organized keeping the management system of the chain of stores updated.
What are the most important elements of a commercial chain? (Among others)
– Supply.
– Distribution.
– Order processing.
– The inventory of products in stock.
Another important aspect is the sales system. This requires a POS system for store chains to monitor inventory, make payments and organize sales.
Don’t know what I mean? Well, I’ll tell you all about it below.
POS for store chains
A point of sale (POS) in e-commerce is a program that allows you to manage the entire sales process. It is known as both the virtual software that allows you to make economic transactions online, and the physical devices that have other functions.
It allows you to collect credit card payments, issue sales tickets and invoices (in the case of POS for physical store chains) and much more.
Choosing the right POS depends on the characteristics of your industry. If you have a chain of clothing stores, make sure you choose the right POS for your market niche.
In addition to all this, when managing a chain of stores on online platforms, it is necessary to provide potential customers with greater possibilities for purchase.
For example:
– offer different payment methods;
– display a powerful product catalogue with up-to-date stock and price information as well as authentic item descriptions;
– the status of the order so that the user knows when it will be delivered.
2 tips to keep in mind if you have a chain of stores
If you have a chain of stores, you probably already have a working knowledge of everything I have told you.
In addition, you are likely to have certain concerns regarding chain store management if you manage a retail chain.
That is why we will now talk about the two fundamental concerns you may have.
Energy efficiency in a chain of stores
We are well aware that the presentation of the product in the chain stores is extremely important in the purchasing process. For this, good lighting is more than necessary, which implies an excessive expenditure of energy and therefore astronomical figures in the bills.
However, there are ways to avoid this in order to take care of your pocket, but also to attract a growing customer profile.
One of the purchasing criteria that has become a trend for consumers is that of environmental protection. That is why more and more people are choosing to make their purchases from companies committed to this cause.
For some time now, the profile of the consumer has changed and has become more demanding when it comes to buying. They are not only interested in the quality and usefulness of the product, but also in the environmental responsibility of the company that sells it.
This is a customer profile that is becoming more and more frequent, especially in digital commerce.
If you have many stores, you may be interested in improving energy efficiency, not only as a way to attract customers and turn this into a competitive advantage, but also out of self-awareness (and also to take care of your pocket)
In that case, we recommend that you take a look at the Happy tariff and the PVPC Naturgy.
Chain store and merchandise transfer
Another issue of great concern to chain stores is the transfer of goods.
Experts consider that the transfer of goods is a necessary action in the chains of stores in order to guarantee the effectiveness of the sales campaigns. However, in this whole process, profitability should take precedence.
This implies a forecast of the stock balance and the sale of the products with a significant profit margin that justifies the logistics expenses.
But all the experts agree on one thing To make transfers of goods in chain stores is to value the product (as long as no money is lost in it)
Conclusion
In short, a chain of stores requires a lot of planning and organization, in general an efficient logistics plan that allows to combine all the processes involved. In addition to specialized personnel in each of the areas involved in the process.
Do you have any other concerns when it comes to managing a chain store? Tell us in the comments to propose solutions.
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