How do I compete with a chain store of the same type as mine?

The key is to realize what you can offer the customer that the big store cannot:

-better service (this means really going out of your way for the customer, with a big smile on your face)

-better quality (it has to be obvious. Get rid of the substandard products).

I disagree about not being able to compete on price. This really depends on the specific situation. A relative of mine owns a women's clothing store. She carries some of the same dresses as the big chain stores, but actually sells them at a much lower price, because some of the chain stores like to mark up the price and pass the product off as a "luxury item". You won't always be able to compete on price, but often you will.

Good luck :)

1. You have to compete on selling different items.(You will never win on price.)

2. Include products that they don't have. (Don't try to compete with the same products.)

3. Re-think items that you stock and instead of trying to compete exactly with them, think about

products that they don't have.

4. Even go as far as changing your store name when you change your product range. (At least

change your logo and colours for a fresh new look. This way customers will be curious and a fresh new look will bring in old customers too because they will be curious.)

5. Don't forget the value of having great staff members that deliver great customer service, people appreciate this so much, so teach your staff and even give them incentives. Chain stores don't give good service as a rule, just a kid on the till who doesn't know what they are selling. Think about employing 50/50 juniors and mature people. Best of Luck to you. :D

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