Smartphones have taken over the way that people use their cell phones. Packed with applications that can tell everyone where to eat, what music to listen to, or where the nearest bus stop is, these smartphones have also undoubtedly changed the way that many people shop. If you’re a store owner, it’s important to keep in mind that these smartphones can provide more information than just where your store is located. In fact, many smartphone now come with barcode scanning applications that allow for consumers to compare the prices of merchandise on a store’s shelf to competing stores in the area. All they need is a phone and a camera. That’s it. The prices are instantly retrieved through the application and then displayed on the mobile phone so that people know before if they’re getting a good deal before they buy.
From big box stores to small businesses, this technology can prove to be both effective and dangerous. If your business has the best deal, then you’re in great shape. If not, well then you may be in trouble. Keep in mind that barcode scanning is not illegal and unless your store offers a policy against it, there’s nothing you can do about it. However, the best thing for you as a retailer to do is to take advantage of the technology rather than resist it. Try adding easy to find barcodes on promotional items or items that are really priced low against the competition. Include barcode scanning in a circular. Allow for your customers to compare pricing against the other high priced retailers. No matter how you choose to deal with it, you should still know that this technology is growing and can only get more advanced as time goes on.