Question

“A second challenge is physical/virtual balance.” Why is this true for retailers of all types and sizes? Why will this be even more difficult in the future?

Answer 1

" A second challenge is physical/virtual balance",this statement stands true in context of retailers of all types and sizes.In the era of today's growing internet usage,digital stores are dominating the existing physical stores.Ease of approach,multiple choices and doorstep delivery are the salient and attractive features which are moving consumers away from reaching physical stores.Brands like Amazon and Flip -kart are providing attractive discounts and free door step delivery to mass of consumers ,these factors are contributing to rise of online retailers.But this doesn't conclude that the future of physical shops is endangered.

Physical retail shops have still claimed there presence in many areas like when a customer has to make a purchase of a high rated luxury item then they prefer to go the shopping physically.Personal experience of seeing and feeling the thing one is going to purchase is something which cannot be fulfilled via online purchase.For instance,if someone is going to buy luxurious car,or a home decor item or lets say an I-Phone,all such things when purchased physically bring an amount of deep satisfaction.

Also while shopping in showrooms or shops,people do get to try out things physically before purchasing them though option of return and refund is available on online shopping but still it cannot overcome the personal experience of physical shopping.

So though the newer generation who is accustomed to living with ease and comfort in this era of digital world is paving the path for virtual shopping but that doesn't means an end or threat to physical retailers as still there do exists certain parameters which cannot be overcome by virtual shopping mode.