Tech companies are constantly searching for ways to innovate existing devices and IT equipment. The retail environment is also second to none. This segment is also trying to smooth its business operations and customer experience. Two major terms have emerged within these years that are Buy Online, Pick-In Locker (BOPIL), and BOPIS (Buy Online, Pick up In-Store). These terms have evolved with the innovation of smart lockers. These two terms came up ever since these lockers were made automated and tech-enabled.
In this blog, we will talk about the BOPIS, BOPIL, and how smart lockers are behind these terms.
What is BOPIS?
BOPIS, or Buy Online, Pick Up In-Store is a term that is connected to the ease of customers. This way allows customers to purchase products online and then pick them up at a physical store at their suitable time. This approach combines the benefits of online shopping with the ease of in-store purchases.
Customers can easily go through the available stock of the retailer and order it. Then visit the store to collect the ordered item within the same day. This ease is backed by smart lockers to secure your parcels easily.
Advantages of BOPIS
- Convenience
Customers can shop online in their leisure time avoiding crowded stores. The retailers will put ordered items in the smart lockers. Buyers can collect their items later that day.
- Time-Saving
Customers often pick up their orders from their assigned smart locker. This is how customers can avoid waiting time for delivery.
- Cost-Effective
Retailers can cut the cost of delivery charges by storing items in smart lockers.
- Inventory Control
Retailers can manage order fulfillment and inventory management effectively with the help of BOPIS and smart lockers.
What is BOPIL?
BOPIL, or Buy Online, Pick In-Store Lockers, is an extension of the BOPIS model. This approach utilizes smart lockers for order collection from a physical store or any allocated place of a logistics company.
Customers buy items online and then the retrieval process could be done through the smart lockers.
Advantages of BOPIL
- Contactless Experience
The receivers can pick up their ordered items without interacting with the staff. This solution is an ideal situation in today’s health-conscious environment.
- Extended Hours
Smart lockers can be accessed at any time of the day. They are accessible 24/7, and customers can retrieve their items late at night too.
- Security
Smart lockers can be accessed through PIN codes that are sent to customers via SMS or email. This is how the ordered items are secured and only the owner can access them.
- Space Optimization
The space utilization is another benefit of the BOPIL model. Retailers can manage the layout and ordered items in the lockers to utilize left space for new items.
The Role of Smart Lockers in Retail
Smart lockers are transforming the business’s styles. They proved to be a great addition to business operations. Similarly, they are helping to create new terms in businesses like BOPIS and BOPIL. They have changed the shopping experience. Here’s how smart lockers create trends:
- Efficiency and Speed
Smart lockers are facilitating customers for easier pickup. These lockers increase the efficiency and speed of package delivery from the store or any allocated space. BOPIS & BOPIL are truly possible only because of smart lockers.
- Customer Experience
Customers are appreciating smart lockers working in shopping or other places due to user experience. The overall facilitation of smart lockers is increasing convenience.
- Reduced Labor Costs
Placing smart lockers in stores or special locations is reducing labor costs. The delivery staff isn’t required to deliver each parcel to their respective doorsteps. Everyone can work according to their ease. The staff will deliver parcels to the lockers and the customers can retrieve their parcels when they return home after the job.
- Increased Sales Opportunities
Offering BOPIL with smart lockers can drive more sales. The customers will come to pick up their parcels and may make more purchases at the store.
- Integration of Charging Solutions
One of the innovative steps is to incorporate charging solutions into smart charging lockers. These smart charging lockers are introduced by honest waves. The lockers can charge your phones securely, while you are shopping in stores.
FAQs
How does BOPIL differ from BOPIS?
BOPIL, or “Buy Online, Pick In Locker,” is an extension of the BOPIS model. In this model, the customers can directly access their parcels without going to the experience stores. These lockers are usually placed outside of the retail store or any other location, and users can easily access them.
What are the benefits of using smart lockers for BOPIS and BOPIL?
BOPIS, BOPIL, and smart lockers provide several advantages, including:
- Convenience
- Security
- Cost savings
- Efficiency
Conclusion
BOPIS, BOPIL, and Smart lockers together are transforming consumer behavior. This approach is a unique mix of trends and technology. These lockers are a perfect solution for a busy life and working on everyone’s ease.
They also blend online and offline shopping experiences with more ease. Smart lockers play a pivotal role in the fulfillment model, providing convenience, security, and efficiency for both customers and retailers. E-commerce companies can make the shopping experience smooth by introducing smart lockers at their experience stores or special locations in populated areas.