Pulse December 2016 | Page 54

ASK THE EXPERT NEMANJA BABIC CONTINUED they buy products with which they are familiar. They are not simply omni-channel shoppers—and they require a tailored marketing approach. They care less about online advisors, product tips and reviews. An emerging (though small) segment of online shoppers are “e-commerce die-hards” who spend more than 80 percent of their “fragrance dollars” exclusively online, due to perceived convenience and better prices than in department stores. A full third of these shoppers don’t miss anything by not being physically in the store. P: How can fragrance manufacturers appeal to the impulsive trait of consumers and influence their purchasing decisions? B: Manufacturers need to rethink their investment in-store, as a significant portion of their marketing effort is not effective. Shoppers do not seem to be greatly influenced by all the instore advertising—half of them are rarely driven to purchase a full-size product after being given a sample, and some actively avoid “spritzers.” These shoppers expect a tailored approach that will give them a reason to switch from their long-held brand preference, be it the right offer at the right time or some well-timed advice at the counter. n 52 PULSE ■ December 2016 Top 3 Factors that Influence Purchasing In-Store Shoppers 1. PROMOTION AND DISCOUNT: 32 percent of in-store shoppers say they are strongly influenced by discounts and promotional offers. 2. SERVICE: 25 percent of in-store shoppers say good customer service is a strong influencer in their purchasing decision. 3. SAMPLES: 22 percent of shoppers say in-store samples highly influence their purchasing decision. Online Shoppers 1. LIMITLESS ASSORTMENT: 71 percent of online shoppers say having the option of a vast assortment is very important. 2. BEST PRICE: 69 percent of online shoppers are influenced by price. 3. FREE SHIPPING: 58 percent of online shoppers say free shipping is a big factor when shopping fragrance online.