Table of Contents:
What is click and collect and why is it popular?
Click and collect is a retail fulfilment method where customers purchase items online and have the products delivered to a designated physical location, such as a store or third-party collection point. They can also select a kerbside pickup option. This shopping model offers the convenience of online buying combined with the immediacy of in-store pickup.
Click and collect’s rising popularity in the UK
In the UK, the adoption of click and collect has seen a significant upward trend. As of 2023, more than 15 percent of UK eCommerce orders were fulfilled via click and collect, nearly doubling the pre-pandemic share in 2019.1 This growth underscores the increasing consumer demand for flexible shopping options.
How does the click and collect process work?
Understanding how click and collect works is crucial for businesses aiming to implement this service effectively. The below step-by-step breakdown explains what online retailers and eCommerce businesses should know.
So, how does click and collect work? Here are five key steps:
- Online purchase: Consumers browse and purchase items through an online platform
- Selection of collection option: At checkout, shoppers choose the click and collect option and select a preferred collection location, such as a store or kerbside pickup and time slot
- Order confirmation: Buyers receive an order confirmation with collection details, including a unique code or barcode
- Notification of readiness: Once the order is prepared, shoppers are notified that their order is ready for collection
- Collection: Customers present the necessary identification or order confirmation at the collection point to retrieve their items
Clear communication throughout this process is crucial to ensure a smooth customer experience.
Integrating click and collect with Clover POS
Clover POS systems support click and collect by synchronising online orders, inventory and customer data between eCommerce platforms and in-store systems. Key functionalities include:
- Real-time stock updates: Ensuring accurate inventory levels across all sales channels
- Order management: Streamlines the processing of online orders for in-store collection
- Automated notifications: Send timely updates to customers regarding their order status
- Reporting tools: Provide insights into sales and operational efficiency
Proper staff training and clear in-store procedures are essential to leverage these features effectively.
Practical steps to implement click and collect with Clover POS
Implementing click and collect with Clover POS solutions involves several key steps that, if followed correctly, drive various benefits for UK businesses. Here is a step-by-step implementation guide:
- Configure Clover POS system: Set up the system to handle online orders and in-store pickups
- Integrate online catalogue: Ensure the product catalogue is synchronised across online and in-store platforms
- Enable click and collect option: Activate the click and collect feature as a fulfilment option during checkout
- Set collection parameters: Define collection time slots and prepare protocols for order readiness notifications
- Train staff: Educate employees on the click and collect process to ensure efficiency and customer satisfaction
- Test the system: Conduct thorough testing before launching to identify and eliminate any issues
- Monitor and Improve: Regularly assess performance and gather customer feedback for continuous improvement
Key takeaways and next steps
Businesses that choose to implement click and collect with Clover POS solutions experience numerous advantages. These merchants gain and maintain a competitive edge through enhanced customer convenience, improved operational efficiency and increased sales opportunities.
An effective click and collect offering, combined with Clover POS, should provide flexible shopping options, streamline order processing, improve inventory management and drive repeat sales by encouraging additional in-store purchases during order collection. Contact us today to start reaping these benefits.
Bibliography
1 GlobeNewswire: Europe Click and Collect Grocery Growth Forecasts Report 2025: Market to Surpass $275 Billion by 2033 from $46.5 Billion in 2024 - Focus on Germany, UK, and France
