If you don’t visit large DIY stores often and aren’t familiar with the layout of their products, it can be overwhelming. Trying to find what you need in the midst of a stressful project, where utilities may be turned off or sunlight may affect visibility, can be challenging. However, the introduction of “select and collect” services, also known as “click and collect,” has greatly contributed to the popularity of DIY stores, especially during the busy Spring season. These services allow you to request the store to set aside the items you need for you to simply pick up later. This convenience is also appreciated by tradespeople who want to quickly and efficiently complete their jobs.
The real value of select and collect comes into play when you’re looking for a product that’s hard to find, such as a specific color that’s sold out everywhere or a clearance item that’s almost gone. With select and collect, you can reserve the product even if you’re not physically near the store, as long as you’re willing to travel to pick it up. This way, you won’t miss out on the chance to get your hands on that hard-to-find item.
Retailers like Screwfix have adopted a strategy that minimizes public visibility of their inventory. By keeping the majority of their stock out of sight, they are able to maintain accurate inventory levels and reduce the risk of theft, which has historically been a concern in the DIY retail industry. This approach also allows them to keep costs down by limiting the amount of stock that needs to be displayed and secured. Instead, most items are stored behind the counter and can only be accessed by authorized staff members.
Where Was The Concept Started?
The idea may have originated in the UK, where retailers like Argos (now part of Sainsbury’s) have long offered a catalogue-based shopping experience. Customers can place orders online and collect their items in-store or use in-store catalogues to make their selections. However, this approach has its limitations, as shoppers can’t physically touch or feel the products before purchasing. This is where DIY retailers like B&Q, Wickes, and Homebase come in, offering a hybrid shopping experience that combines the convenience of online ordering with the ability to touch and feel products in-store before making a purchase.
Technology Had Aided Reserve Stock Services
With the advent of mobile technology, the concept of reserving products has reached new heights. Gone are the days of being tied to a computer to place an order. Now, you can order products from the comfort of your garden, while on public transportation, or even from the passenger seat of a car en route to the store. DIY enthusiasts can also take advantage of a more streamlined experience, as many stores display aisle numbers and real-time inventory levels on their websites and apps. This not only saves time but also ensures that the product you need is available when you arrive at the store, making home improvement projects a breeze.
Bank Holidays Will Still Be The Same
Customers who enjoy browsing their local DIY store for inspiration and planning home or garden improvements won’t be impacted by this service. Bank holidays will still attract many customers to these stores, but when a project is underway, having a convenient option to quickly gather materials becomes particularly valuable.