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15 Jan 2024

The Guardian has reported that ministers decided to prioritise driving over active travel because of worries about “15-minute cities”.

15 Jan 2024

Go Outdoors, which operates 75 stores across the UK, has announced an apprenticeship scheme involving Cytech training with the aim of addressing what it terms a nationwide shortage of...

3 Jan 2024

gogeta, the new tax-free cycling platform that offers a better deal for retailers and bigger savings for customers, has published further details of its new Flexi Voucher, an industry first...

3 Jan 2024

Bike for Good, the Glasgow-based cycling charity and social enterprise, which delivers Cytech training in Scotland, has announced a Young Bike Mechanic Programme designed to create opportunities...

3 Jan 2024

With the UK economy set to tread water in 2024, the KPMG/RetailNext Retail Think Tank (RTT), an independent board of retail experts, expects this will impact growth within the retail sector.

3 Jan 2024

For our latest retailer spotlight, we spoke with Steven Grimwood from the brilliant Elmy Cycles in Ipswich, who has been working in the cycle trade since he was 14 years old

3 Jan 2024

Bike theft in the UK has effectively been 'decriminalised' as more than 365,000 cases went unsolved in the last five years, the Liberal Democrats have claimed.

3 Jan 2024

A new year means new challenges – but also new opportunities for cycle traders too and planning now so you can gain a competitive advantage and thrive in the warmer months will be key to...

2 Jan 2024

Hudjo is the first online marketplace that lets cyclists park with locals, which relieves the anxiety of parking your bike. 

20 Dec 2023

The ACT office will be open as usual (9am-5pm) for the majority of the Christmas period, with some exceptions.

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Getting Your Business Ready for 2024: A Guide for Cycle Traders

Posted on in Business News , Cycles News

A new year means new challenges – but also new opportunities for cycle traders too and planning now so you can gain a competitive advantage and thrive in the warmer months will be key to exploiting the potential that 2024 will offer.

In this article, we delve into key strategies that can help your business not only be visible online but also offer a seamless purchasing experience for customers.

2024

 

1. Optimise Your Online Presence

The UK has the most advanced e-commerce market in Europe and is estimated to have approaching 60 million e-commerce users — leaving only a minority of the population as non-digital buyers. Shopping online has become the norm.

Having a strong online presence, therefore, is crucial for any business. Ensure that customers can easily find your business online by optimising your website for search engines. Your website should not only be user-friendly - clear and easy to navigate - but also should encourage potential buyers to explore your product ranges.

 

2. Offer Flexible Finance Options

To cater to a broader customer base, you should consider implementing finance options. Differentiate your finance offerings based on the stock items, providing cheaper subsidy-carrying finance options for sale stock. This not only attracts budget-conscious customers but also helps clear out old inventory, making room for new products

 

3. Train Your Staff on Finance Sales

Equipping your staff with the knowledge and skills to effectively sell using finance options is essential. A well-informed sales team will be able guide customers through the financing process, addressing any concerns and making the purchasing experience smoother.

 

4. Bundle and Maximise Sales

We recommend creating enticing bundles that maximise the sale of complementary items such as locks, helmets, and shoes. In doing so, you are not only adding value to the customer's purchase but also increasing the overall transaction value. Bundle offers can be highlighted on your website and on your social media channels, enticing customers to consider additional accessories during the buying process.

 

5. Keep Your Website Up to Date

An outdated website can be a big turn-off, driving potential customers away. Make sure your website is regularly updated with the latest products, promotions, and financing options. Prominent display all purchasing options from the moment customers land on your site – it will help streamline the buying process.

 

6. Promote Through Online Advertising

Leverage online advertising to reach a wider audience. Clearly communicate that customers can turn their dream of owning a bike into reality with manageable monthly finance options. Highlighting this message through targeted online advertising can significantly increase brand awareness and drive traffic to your website. Paid posts on social media channels, either geo-targeted and/or based on an interest in cycling, could be worth exploring too.

Implement these strategies and we are confident you will be positioning your business for success in 2024. From optimising online visibility to providing flexible finance options and bundling complementary products, these steps will ensure that your business not only stays competitive but also offers a superior purchasing experience for customers. As we embark on the new year, let's gear up for a prosperous and rewarding journey in the world of cycle trading.

 

machanic

 

How The ACT can help you provide retail finance to your customers

The ACT provides an all-encompassing retail finance solution tailored to meet your business's unique requirements. Discover more details by clicking here

Want to learn more? The ACT also offer online training on retail finance for cycle traders here.

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