Checkout free stores are designed to help customers zip in and zip out - particularly in places where lines are long. Long lines indicate a high number of customers who want to shop. Zippin powered store associates must be aware and manage this traffic effectively. Not only will the tech work more efficiently with proper crowd control, but the customer will have a safe and comfortable experience.
OCCUPANCY LIMITS
Entrance into the store should be throttled when occupancy is approaching the maximum permitted by leadership or local law. Store leadership is responsible for setting this number. Store leadership should consider the following limitations:
- Fire Code
- COVID-19 Restrictions
- Comfortable Shopping: This is subjective, however when customers have difficulty moving freely throughout the store, the entry associate should be empowered to throttle the flow into the store. Customer experience and sales can be negatively impacted due to store congestion.
- Throughput
- Event-based stores that host 'all-pour events' require customers to pour beverages into cups before exit. This additional step results in customers moving more slowly through the store. Customers also need more space (and potentially more table and trash bin options) to assist in process. As a result, the occupancy limits and flow may be lower and slower to accommodate.
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Best practice is to have a designated queuing area approved and communicated before each event or peak part of the business day. Zippin can consult on optimal queuing strategy for your location. |
CONTROL METHOD OPTIONS
- Reduce entry to one lane (or reduce the number of gates in use)
- Alternate the entry gate in use
- Entry associate can tell the next customer in line "I'll ask you to wait a moment until the store is more comfortable for you" and then let the in when the store traffic is flowing more smoothly.
- Walkie Talkie communication
- The exit or sales floor associate can communicate to the entrance associate when it is appropriate to stop and start throttling. This is more appropriate when the entry associate does not have full line of sight into the store (ex- a large square footage store or one with corner configurations)
- Utilize stanchions to manage the customers queued for entrance. Stanchions help associates keep customers safe and organized in an orderly fashion.
- New customers are only let into the store if there are less than 'X' shoppers lining up at the exit (the specific number is determined by the retailer. We generally recommend no more than 5 customers in queue)