What is a bricks and mortar business? 

Bricks and mortar refers to businesses with physical stores you can visit. These shops let you see and touch products before buying. You’ll find them in malls, downtown areas, and neighborhoods. 

Unlike online-only companies, bricks and mortar stores offer face-to-face service. You can talk to staff, try on clothes, or test electronics in person.

Some key features include: 

  • Physical building
  • In-person transactions
  • Tangible product displays
  • Customer service staff

Many businesses now combine physical stores with websites. This gives you options to shop online or in-store. 

Why do bricks and mortar businesses matter? 

Bricks and mortar businesses still play a crucial role in today’s business world. You might think online shopping has taken over, but physical stores offer unique experiences that digital can’t match. 

When you walk into a store, you can touch products, try them on, and get personalized advice. This builds trust and loyalty. Brick stores also give you instant gratification – no waiting for shipping!

For businesses, physical locations provide: 

  • Brand visibility
  • A place to showcase products
  • Face-to-face customer service

Brick buildings themselves are durable and energy-efficient. Their compressive strength makes them ideal for retaining walls and large structures. The thick walls offer great insulation, keeping you comfortable year-round. 

So while online shopping is convenient, bricks and mortar aren’t going anywhere. They’re adapting to give you the best of both worlds. 

How do bricks and mortar businesses use digital tools? 

Digital tools help physical stores stay competitive. You’ll find many shops using social media to connect with customers. They post photos of new products and share special offers. This drives foot traffic to their locations. 

Online ads are another key strategy. Stores target local shoppers with promotions on platforms like Facebook and Instagram. They also use Google Ads to appear in search results when you’re looking for nearby businesses. 

Local SEO is crucial too. Shops optimize their websites and Google Business profiles to show up when you search for products in your area. They encourage customer reviews to boost their visibility. 

Some stores use “buy now, pay later” options to attract younger shoppers. This flexible payment method can increase sales both online and in-store. 

Bricks and mortar vs. online businesses 

Bricks and mortar stores offer a hands-on shopping experience. You can touch products, try on clothes, and chat with staff face-to-face. This personal touch can boost customer loyalty. 

Online businesses give you 24/7 access from anywhere. You can shop in your pyjamas at 3 AM if you want. They often have lower costs, which can mean better prices for you. 

Physical stores let you take items home right away. No waiting for shipping or dealing with returns by mail. But online shops typically have a wider selection to choose from. 

Social media plays a big role for both types of businesses. Holiday shopping trends show how important online buzz is, even for physical stores. 

Many businesses now use a mix of both models. This “omnichannel” approach aims to give you the best of both worlds. 

Final thoughts 

Bricks and mortar stores aren’t going away, but they’re changing. You’ll see more shops blending online and offline experiences. They’re using tech to make shopping smoother and more fun.

Social media plays a big role too. You might find stores hosting Instagram-worthy events or using Facebook to advertise local deals. Some let you browse products on Pinterest, then pick them up in-store. 

Retailers are getting creative to give you reasons to visit. Think classes, community spaces, or try-before-you-buy areas. It’s all about making shopping more than just buying stuff.