In today’s fast-paced retail landscape, driving footfall and boosting revenue is about more than just putting up a good sale sign. For UK retailers, blending convenience, technology and personalisation is essential to remain competitive. Here are 10 proven, quick ways to boost retail sales in the UK, regardless of whether you operate a high street shop, pop-up or multi-location retail business.
1. Optimise Your In-Store Layout
Strategic product placement can significantly increase average basket size. Use high traffic zones for bestsellers and profitable upsells. Place complementary products next to each other to encourage bundling, such as socks next to shoes or chargers next to phones.
Tip: Use planograms and customer flow analysis to improve layout efficiency.
2. Train Staff to Sell, Not Just Serve
Your staff are your frontline sales drivers. Equip them with training on product knowledge, cross-selling techniques and customer interaction. A warm greeting, good advice and confident recommendations can turn browsers into loyal buyers.
External Resource: ACAS Retail Training Guidance
3. Offer Flexible Card Payment Options
Many customers walk away when their preferred payment method isn’t available. Accepting contactless, mobile wallets and Buy Now Pay Later can immediately reduce friction and increase conversions.
Related: Explore CreatePay’s card machines
4. Implement Limited Time Offers
Create urgency with flash sales, time sensitive discounts or “today only” offers. These drive impulse purchases and can be easily promoted with in-store signage or SMS and email campaigns.
5. Use Digital Receipts to Boost Re-engagement
Offer digital receipts and ask for an email opt-in at checkout. This gives you a direct channel for promotions, surveys and loyalty programmes. It’s also environmentally friendly, appealing to sustainability conscious customers.
6. Upgrade Your Window Display Weekly
Your storefront is your first impression. Refresh window displays weekly to reflect new stock, seasonal themes or promotions. Use lighting and signage to draw attention even after hours.
7. Launch a Loyalty Scheme
Studies show loyalty programmes increase repeat purchase rates. Whether it’s points per pound, a stamp card or VIP perks, reward your returning customers to keep them engaged.
Stat: 70% of UK consumers are more likely to shop where a loyalty scheme is available (source)
8. Encourage and Incentivise Reviews
Online reviews influence in-store purchasing. Ask happy customers to leave reviews on Google or Trustpilot. Offer small incentives such as 10% off their next visit as a thank you.
9. Use In-Store Analytics Tools
Footfall counters and heatmaps help track how shoppers move through your store. Use this data to rearrange layouts, reposition key products or adjust staffing during peak times.
Bonus: Invest in EPOS systems that offer smart reporting and real-time sales tracking.
10. Introduce Local Partnerships or Events
Team up with neighbouring businesses or host in-store events to attract more customers and encourage cross-promotion. Examples include local product showcases, co-branded community days or themed weekends.
Final Tip: Simplify the Checkout Process
A slow queue or limited payment options can derail a sale. Ensure you have reliable, fast card machines, minimal checkout friction and friendly staff to close every sale confidently.
Ready to Boost Retail Sales?
Explore CreatePay’s fast, secure card payment solutions and merchant support services to help you increase sales and enhance your in-store experience.