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Getting your retail business back on its feet after COVID

The pandemic had a huge impact on businesses across the globe. Some of our beloved high street retailers have permanently closed their doors, and new brands are leading the way into the post-pandemic retail industry. Those in the retail business need to reflect on the lessons they learned from COVID and how they can use them to move forward.

It’s time to get back to business as usual in the UK. If your retail business survived the pandemic, here are a few ways you can hit the ground running.

Utilise social media if you haven’t already

In the pandemic, we used technology for our day-to-day activities such as socialising, working, ordering food, and even schooling our children. Social media is a brilliant resource that can help to reshape your marketing campaign and relaunch your business. Make an Instagram and Facebook account and be sure to post quality, engaging content consistently on these platforms. Take photos of your new products, engage with customers, and integrate social media into the bones of your business.

You should also improve and update your website before business starts heating up again. Let customers know your high street store is open or better yet, give your website a whole revamp. It’s more important than ever for companies to have a strong online presence. Customers will often research your store online before they visit you in person and a great first impression is crucial!

Ask for help

The pandemic left many businesses in financial disarray. If things a looking unsalvageable by your own means, be sure to make use of an unsecured business loan to get back on your feet after a tough couple of years. Grow your team, invest in new materials, and regroup. There are numerous funding options available for businesses in the UK so you’ll be sure to find something that fits you.

retail business back busy

Revaluate your business approach

The business industry has changed. Remote working practises are common, business travel has drastically reduced, and a healthy work-life balance has never been more important. Now’s the time to look at your business plan and identify anything you want to change. Your long-term business goals have probably changed since the pandemic. You may have had some major setbacks or grown in an entirely different direction. For example, many fitness brands capitalised on-at-home workout programmes during lockdown and changed their messaging.

Look at your industry and brainstorm some ideas to fill a gap in the market. It’s time to innovate and spark some creativity.

Build your team backup

Your team are the ones that keep your business moving. If you furloughed your employees in lockdown, try to reconnect and discuss their future careers with them. Their priorities and career goals may have changed in the pandemic. Many businesses are adopting flexible working practices so that employees can work in the office and at home. Communicate with your team and try to work together to find the best solution for any challenges they are facing.

Be sure to consider our advice, re-evaluate your business plan and hit the ground running after the pandemic.