FL Shopping Center Insider Q3 2018 Edition | Page 11

SHOPPING CENTER INSIDER - Q3 2018 RETAIL’S MOST IMPORTANT RENOVATION: The People R etail today is all about experience. Peo- ple crave a new, interactive way of shop- ping, but what seems to have the most impact on a shopping experience in a brick and mortar store is the workforce. Consumers love walking in to REI because their workforce is extremely passionate and knowledge- able about their products. The workers know what you need for your next adventure and will show you how to use it. This gives consumers the con- fidence and assurance they need before they em- bark on their journey. As a result, REI attracts more customers and allows REI to send their employees on trips and provide supplemental training. This is an experience that other retailers are trying to mimic to drive more business. 11