Boost Sales: Outdoor Seating Areas in Retail Stores

Creating an inviting and comfortable outdoor seating area in your store can significantly enhance customer experience and potentially increase sales. In today's competitive retail landscape, providing a welcoming space for customers to relax, digitally detox, and connect with your brand is more important than ever.

According to a study by PGHD, consumers spent 43% more in stores that offered comfortable seating. This demonstrates the direct impact of outdoor seating on retail success. But how do you create the perfect outdoor seating space that complements your store's branding and appeals to your target audience?

Assessing Your Store's Outdoor Spaces

Before investing in outdoor furniture, assess your store's available outdoor spaces. Consider factors like weather conditions, foot traffic, and available square footage to determine the best layout for your seating area.

Shady spots under trees, awning-covered patios, or rooftop decks can provide comfortable, weather-resistant seating zones. For high-foot-traffic areas, prioritize easy access and visibility to attract customers and showcase your products.

Weather-Proofing Your Outdoor Seating Area

Investing in durable, weather-resistant furniture is crucial for maintaining your store's outdoor seating area. Opt for materials like aluminum, teak, or powder-coated steel that withstand various weather conditions, requiring minimal maintenance.

Additional weather-proofing elements, such as retractable umbrellas, sun sails, or permanent awnings, can further protect patrons and furniture from harsh elements. Don't forget to keep a few indoor-outdoor rugs or throw pillows on hand for chilly evenings, ensuring year-round comfort.

Designing an Inviting Outdoor Seating Layout

Arrange your outdoor furniture to create distinct, inviting zones that encourage customers to linger and connect with your brand. Mix and match seating options, like benches, lounge chairs, and communal tables, to cater to different customer preferences.

Define boundaries using planters, low dividers, or landscaping elements to separate your seating area from busy sidewalks or roadways. Install ambient lighting, like string lights or table lamps, to extend the usage and appeal of your outdoor space into the evening.

Curating a Comfortable and Engaging Customer Experience

A well-designed outdoor seating area is only half the battle. The true magic lies in the customer experience you create within this space.

Offer free Wi-Fi, phone charging stations, or even dedicated customer lounges to encourage customers to stay and engage with your brand. Incorporate interactive displays, like video walls or touchscreen tablets, to showcase product information or share user-generated content.

Integrating Branded Elements into Outdoor Spaces

Leverage your outdoor seating area as an extension of your brand by incorporating subtle or prominent branded elements. For instance, customize furniture with your logo, use branded throw pillows, or display eye-catching signage that reflects your brand's personality.

Hire a talented local artist to create a custom mural or install a unique installation that sparks conversation and engages customers. Encourage users to share their experiences and photos on social media by creating a dedicated hashtag or installing an Instagram-worthy photo op.

Hosting Events and Activations in Your Outdoor Space

Activating your outdoor seating area through events and marketing initiatives can generate buzz, attract new customers, and foster customer loyalty. Collaborate with local businesses, influencers, or artists to host creative workshops, popup events, or music performances.

Offer in-store promotions or discounts during events to encourage customers to shop and engage with your brand. Join local business associations or chambers of commerce to participate in community events, like street fairs or art walks, and showcase your store's unique outdoor space.

Creating a welcoming outdoor seating area in your store not only enhances the customer experience but also helps differentiate your brand in a competitive retail environment. By thoughtfully assessing your available spaces, investing in high-quality furniture, and curating a comfortable, engaging customer experience, you'll create a powerful connection with your customers that drives long-term success.