It is hard for a small, independent pharmacy to compete with the big-name pharmacies. But that does not mean they cannot do very well for themselves, especially with tips concerning point-of-sales machines, or more specifically, the pharmacy POS software 2014 model. The truth is that focusing on the right things can really improve a pharmacy’s sales numbers.
Focus On This First: Front-end Sales Depend on Layout.
When setting up product, the layout matters. How does it matter? A great layout will encourage a customer to buy more products, because they will see the convenience of purchasing items they need from one place of business. On the other hand, a bad layout that makes it difficult for a customer to find what they are looking will not encourage them to make more purchases, as they will likely be frustrated about their search.
With pharmacy POS software 2014 or later, a manager can quickly see what products are selling and which ones are not. At this point, it helps to take a walk around the front end of the store. Why? Because when you work somewhere eventually the decor will cease to distract you; things never look shabby when we see them everyday. It is only when we take a break, or get a new perspective, that a familiar view is seen afresh.
You may find that the products that are selling better than others are at a certain height, or are closer to the register. It is helpful to stock like-items close to each other, such as toothpaste near floss, and allergy medicine next to tissues. Try to think about the customer’s needs when designing a layout. A POS system can help a manager see which items are selling and thereby what inventory needs to be ordered, and see if there is a seasonal pattern to sales (there likely is).
Secondly, Consider the Up Sell.
When done correctly, up selling is helpful to the customer, as it guides the customer to a purchase that can more fully support their needs. When done incorrectly, up selling is, frankly, annoying. Proper training can help a sales associate learn when a customer might appreciate an offer, and when it would not be appreciated. For example, people who are in a hurry just want to get in and out, not hear about a three minute spiel. However, a customer who has concerns or asks a lot of questions is more likely to want to hear about any supplemental products.
A local pharmacy may not have the well-known name of a larger store, but they do have something others do not: a more personal touch. Some results show that people feel that a smaller pharmacy is more knowledgeable about the medications they are selling, and are therefore more comfortable asking questions. Hint: this is another great chance to recommend front-end products. The essential thing is to build a rapport, so that the customer feels inclined to return to your pharmacy, and no other. While a pharmacy POS software 2014 or later program will not make or break the business, it can make it easier for a pharmacy manager to pin point how well the business is doing.