In-Store vs. Curbside Pickup: Automate In-Store Pickup with BOPIS Strategy

The rise of curbside pickup and buy online, pick up in-store (BOPIS) has redefined retail. The pandemic didn’t just change how consumers shop – it rewrote the rules of retail fulfillment. Consumer expectations have shifted dramatically since 2020, which led over 40% of retailers to offer BOPIS (AlixPartners) and nearly two-thirds are planning (Business Wire).

For retailers, these aren’t just buzzwords like “what’s curbside?” or “how does curbside pickup work?” – they’re critical fulfillment models. Curbside pickup means minimizing wait times, while BOPIS solutions streamline inventory access.

What began as a temporary workaround has become a permanent demand. A study by PYMNTS reveals that curbside and in-store pickup usage has grown by 37% among U.S. consumers.

Take a quick look.

Image Source: https://www.verifiedmarketresearch.com/product/buy-online-pick-up-in-store-bopis-market/

For retailers, the above image clearly poses a question. It isn’t whether to adopt these models – it’s how to implement them efficiently.

What Is BOPIS and Why Is It Dominating Retail?

The retail landscape is evolving rapidly, and Buy Online, Pick Up In-Store (BOPIS) has emerged as a game-changer. Combining the convenience of ecommerce with the immediacy of brick-and-mortar, BOPIS bridges the gap between digital and physical shopping. But what exactly is BOPIS, and why are retailers racing to adopt it? Let’s break it down.

1. Definition: BOPIS (Buy Online, Pick Up In-Store) Simplified

BOPIS stands for buy online, pick up in-store – a fulfillment model where customers place orders digitally and collect them at a physical store, often the same day.

Unlike traditional shipping, BOPIS eliminates delivery wait times and costs, making it a win-win for shoppers and retailers.

Why it matters:

• For consumers: Skip shipping fees, get items faster, and avoid in-store crowds.
• For retailers: Drive foot traffic, reduce last-mile delivery costs, and boost sales through impulse buys.

2. Variations: BOPIS vs. BOSS vs. BORIS vs. ROPIS

BOPIS isn’t the only acronym retailers must familiarize themselves with. Here’s how it compares to other hybrid models:

Retailers must choose the right model based on inventory, customer base, and logistics.

3. BOPIS Explained: Consumer vs. Retailer Perspectives

Consumer Perspective

• Convenience: No shipping fees, same-day pickup (“buy online, pick up in-store same day”).
• Flexibility: Grab orders during errands or work commutes.
• Trust: Inspect items before leaving the store.

Retailer Perspective

• Cost Savings: Cuts last-mile delivery expenses (cheaper than home delivery).
• Upsell Opportunities: BOPIS customers buy additional items in-store.
• Inventory Control: Reduces overstock by leveraging store stock for online orders.

4. Major Industries Embracing BOPIS

4.1 Grocery

Example: Walmart, Kroger

Why? Perishable items need fast pickup; “curbside pickup means” no parking hassles.

4.2 Apparel & Footwear

Example: Target, Nike

Why? Customers want to try before committing (e.g., sizing).

4.3 Electronics

Example: Best Buy, Apple

Why? High-value items benefit from in-store verification.

4.4 Pharma

Example: CVS, Walgreens

Why? Prescriptions require quick, secure pickup.

Curbside Pickup vs. In-Store Pickup: What’s the Difference?

As retailers scale their BOPIS programs, understanding the distinction between in-store vs. curbside pickup is critical. Here’s a breakdown of both models, their processes, and strategic advantages.

1. In-Store Pickup: The Traditional Approach

Definition: Customers enter the store to collect online orders at a designated counter.

How it works:

• STEP 1: Order online (buy online, pick up in-store software)
• STEP 2: Receive “ready for pickup” notification
• STEP 3: Entry: Walk into store → ID check at service desk
• STEP 4: Staff retrieves order from instore pickup fulfillment platform

Pros:

• Upselling opportunities: customers may buy additional items while in-store
• Lower tech requirements vs. curbside pickup solutions
• Seamless integration with existing POS curbside pickup systems

Cons:

• Requires physical entry (barrier for time-pressed shoppers)
• Limited after-hours availability

Best for: Retailers with high-footfall locations and impulse-driven products (e.g., apparel, electronics).

2. Curbside Pickup: The Contactless Standard

Definition: Staff deliver orders directly to customers’ vehicles in parking lots (define curbside delivery).

How does curbside pickup work:

• STEP 1: Park in designated zone (curbside pickup technology detects arrival via geofencing)
• STEP 2: App/phone alerts staff (curbside ordering software)
• STEP 3: Contactless handoff: Employee verifies ID and loads items

Pros:

• Speed: faster than in-store pickup
• Safety: No store entry needed (key for pharma/grocery curbside pickup solutions)
• Scalable with automated customer pickup systems

Cons:

• Requires parking infrastructure
• Higher labor costs vs. in-store pickup fulfillment software

Best for: Grocery, pharmacies, and retailers prioritizing convenience.

3. Head-to-Head Comparison

Market Trends & Stats: Where BOPIS and Curbside Pickup Are Headed

1. Growth Projections Through 2026-2028

The global BOPIS market hit $345.38 billion in 2022, according to Research and Markets. It’s expected to grow steadily at an impressive 11.57% annual rate, reaching $666.2 billion by 2028.

2. Shopper Behavior Insights

Key reasons why consumers are opting for BOPIS (according to Verified Market Research):

• They want to skip shipping fees
• They’re looking for faster access to their purchases
• They appreciate the convenience of picking items up in-store

48% – use BOPIS to avoid shipping fees

50% – find it more convenient

46% – use it to save time

3. Google trend analysis for “BOPIS same day” and “Curbside pickup near me”

It is clear from the below stated trends that BOPIS and curbside had almost no influence before the pandemic on many retailers.

BOPIS same day

Curbside pickup near me

4. Percentage of retailers adopting hybrid models

AlixPartners reports that around 42% of retailers have introduced hybrid models for their customers. However, adoption has been lower than expected, with just 9% of orders being fulfilled using BOPIS.

5. Popularity of automation and fulfillment platforms

Automation and fulfillment platforms are growing recognition due to an increase in demand for faster and more accurate order fulfillment.

Popular platforms and technologies used for the ecommerce fulfillment services are:

• Robotics and AI: used in warehouses for tasks like inventory management, picking, packing, etc.
• Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs): used to transport goods and materials within the facility.
• Warehouse Management Systems (WMS): used to manage inventory, optimize operations, and automate tasks like order picking and packing.
• Order Management Systems (OMS): used to manage the entire order fulfillment process, from order placement to shipping
• Cloud-based Fulfillment Platforms: used to offer flexible and scalable solutions for managing fulfillment operations.

Image Source: https://www.grandviewresearch

How Does BOPIS Work? The Complete Step-by-Step Retail Fulfillment Process

The entire buy online pickup in-store process creates a seamless bridge between digital shopping and physical retail. By implementing the right BOPIS retail systems, stores can offer faster fulfillment while driving additional foot traffic and sales opportunities.

As consumer expectations evolve, retailers are enhancing their instore pickup fulfillment platforms with features like dynamic pickup windows and integrated loyalty rewards to further improve the customer experience. Here’s exactly how this fulfillment process works from order to pickup:

1. Order Placement to Pick-Up Flow

The BOPIS journey begins when a customer selects “pick up in-store” during online checkout. The system immediately verifies local inventory availability through real-time POS sync, ensuring the selected items are in stock at their chosen location.

Customers typically receive an estimated pickup time, with many retailers now offering same-day BOPIS fulfillment. The order is then routed to the store’s fulfillment queue, triggering the next steps in the process.

2. Backend Fulfillment: POS Sync & Inventory Allocation

Behind the scenes, the store’s BOPIS retail system automatically reserves the purchased items, preventing them from being sold to other customers. This inventory allocation happens through seamless POS integration, which continuously updates stock levels across all sales channels.

The ordered items are pulled from shelves and prepared for pickup, with many retailers using dedicated in-store pickup fulfillment software to prioritize and track these orders separately from regular stock.

3. Employee Alerts & Pickup Logistics

Once an order is ready, staff receive alerts through various channels depending on the retailer’s BOPIS program setup. Some stores use:

• Digital alerts on mobile devices or POS systems
• Automated locker systems for contactless pickup
• Curbside dispatch protocols for exterior deliveries

Advanced retail pickup systems may assign orders to specific employees or stations to streamline the fulfillment process, especially during peak hours.

4. Customer Notifications via SMS/App

Modern BOPIS software automatically sends real-time updates to keep customers informed:

• Initial confirmation with estimated pickup window
• “Your order is ready” notification
• Reminder alerts if pickup is delayed
• Final arrival instructions

These automated messages significantly reduce customer inquiries and improve the pickup experience.

5. Compliance & Age Verification

For regulated items like alcohol, tobacco, or pharmaceuticals, BOPIS solutions incorporate compliance features:

• Digital ID verification during pickup
• POS prompts requiring manager approval
• Audit trails for regulated products

Some systems even allow pre-submission of ID documents through the retailer’s app when using automated store pickup options.

Technologies Powering Modern BOPIS Fulfillment

The efficiency of BOPIS operations relies on specialized retail technologies that bridge digital and physical commerce. Leading solutions combine robust ecommerce platforms with advanced POS software integration to create seamless omnichannel experiences.

At the core of any BOPIS program, integrated retail systems perform real-time inventory synchronization across all sales channels. This prevents overselling by instantly updating stock levels whether items are purchased online, through mobile apps, or at physical registers. Modern curbside pickup software takes this further by adding location-aware features that trigger automated workflows when customers arrive.

Key technological components enabling efficient BOPIS operations include:

Advanced POS Integration

• Unified inventory management across online and physical stores
• Automatic order routing to nearest location with stock availability
• Ability to process store pickup at the register for items located at alternative branches

Automated Customer Communications

• Geo-location triggers that initiate prep workflows when customers approach
• Push notifications updating order status from “processing” to “ready for pickup”
• Multi-channel messaging (SMS, email, app alerts) throughout fulfillment stages

Smart Fulfillment Solutions

• In-store pickup automation through digital kiosks or staff mobile devices
• AI-based scheduling that optimizes pickup times based on store traffic patterns
• Smart locker systems for completely contactless 24/7 retrievals

System Architecture

• API-compatible platforms that connect ecommerce, POS, and fulfillment systems
• Mobile-optimized UX for both customers and store associates
• Cloud-based infrastructure supporting real-time data synchronization

Leading BOPIS retail systems now incorporate machine learning to predict optimal pickup times and automatically adjust staff allocation. The most advanced solutions combine curbside pickup technology with indoor wayfinding to guide customers through different retrieval options – whether standard counter pickup, smart locker access, or curbside delivery.

These technologies work together to create the fast, reliable buy online pickup in-store experiences customers expect today. By implementing comprehensive BOPIS software, retailers can turn fulfillment operations into competitive advantages while driving additional in-store sales opportunities.

Launch Your BOPIS Program: Top 9 Tips

An effective in-store pickup program requires careful planning. Every detail counts, and the easier it is for customers and employees to manage the better.

Here are some tips for doing store pickup right:

1. Text Customers When Their Order is Ready

Effective communication is central to in-store pickup fulfillment. Sending automated text messages to customers when their orders are ready keeps them informed and engaged.

This practice allows customers to plan their pickup according to their schedules, reducing wait times and enhancing overall satisfaction. By adopting this communication strategy, businesses create a more efficient and customer-centric pickup experience.

A POS-integrated in-store pickup app will automate this process and bridge the gap between fulfilment and customers.

2. Create Better “Your Order is Ready for Pickup” Messages

This message is very important. It needs to be clear and not too long. It should also have all the important information. When writing “Your Order is Ready for Pickup” emails, include this information:

• Specific pickup locations
• Special instructions
• Personalize the message with customer / order details

Writing a good message will help customers know what to do. It also helps them feel less anxious and more confident about the pickup process.

3. Use Store Pickup Software to Automate

Streamlining in-store pickup fulfillment begins with automating order processing. Trigger workflows when orders are placed.

This will reduce the risk of errors and ensure orders are prepared promptly. An effective strategy automates:

• Order confirmation (with staff and customers)
• Store fulfilment instructions (for your warehouse staff)
• Facilitate shipping between stores
• Organizing pickup instructions
• Automation reduces the risk of errors and ensures orders are prepared promptly for pickup.

By automating routine tasks like order confirmation and preparation notifications, you free up staff for more customer-focused activities. Plus, efficiency gains through automation lead to better customer experiences, as orders are ready on time, enhancing satisfaction and loyalty.

4. Offer Flexible Pickup Times

Catering to customer preferences for pickup times is a key strategy in in-store pickup fulfillment automation. Consider extending pickup hours to accommodate diverse schedules. This flexibility significantly elevates customer satisfaction and fosters loyalty.

Customers value the convenience of choosing a pickup window that suits them and aligns with their busy lives. It reduces the stress of adhering to rigid pickup schedules and reinforces the notion that your business values their time.

Having flexible pickup times can make your business stand out and attract more customers who like convenience and personalized service.

5. Optimize Inventory Management

A key advantage of POS-based BOPIS software: It instantly connects to your inventory systems.

Efficient inventory management is a cornerstone of successful ship-to-store fulfillment automation. Implement inventory tracking systems that seamlessly sync with your POS and in-store pickup app. This integration prevents issues like overselling and ensures customers receive accurate information about product availability.

Accurate inventory data is vital for managing customer expectations and avoiding disappointments.

Organizing and managing your inventory will help make sure customers get the right orders. It also builds trust with customers and makes it easier to do business quickly.

These tools should:

• Reflect ship-to-store sales in inventory
• Show you where (warehouse or another store) items are available
• Log sales in real-time

In essence, it’s the behind-the-scenes work that allows you to deliver a seamless and reliable in-store pickup fulfillment experience.

6. Train Staff Effectively

Your staff plays a pivotal role in the success of a curbside pickup program.

Therefore, you need to thoroughly train them in the curbside pickup software and develop clear guidelines for processing and fulfilling orders.

Effective training ensures your team can manage orders efficiently while providing a high level of service. Well-trained staff are better equipped to address customer inquiries, resolve issues, and maintain a positive brand image.

Investing in their training pays off in enhanced customer satisfaction and loyalty. The employees in your store are the people customers will see when they pick up their orders.

7. Gather Customer Feedback

Continuous improvement is the key to success. Encourage customers to share their thoughts about your store pickup process.

Use this feedback to pinpoint areas for improvement and refine your process. Customer insights are a goldmine for enhancing processes, addressing pain points, and identifying opportunities to exceed expectations.

By actively seeking and acting on feedback, you demonstrate your commitment to providing the best possible experience. This iterative approach drives ongoing enhancements, ensuring your in-store pickup service remains competitive and aligned with customer needs.

8. Monitor Key Metrics

Tracking metrics is essential for a successful BOPIS program. Fortunately, BOPIS software makes it easy to monitor KPIs like:

• Order fulfilment times
• Pickup times
• Order accuracy
• Customer satisfaction

Regularly review these metrics to track progress and make necessary adjustments.

Monitoring data ensures you stay aligned with your goals and customer expectations. It allows you to identify trends, spot bottlenecks, and seize opportunities for improvement.

9. Promote Curbside Pickup Options

Don’t overlook the importance of promoting your in-store pickup program. Use targeted marketing and clear website messaging to inform customers about this convenient choice. Highlight the benefits, including reduced wait times and enhanced convenience.

Make it easy for customers to understand how in-store pickup works and why it’s advantageous.

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Key Challenges & Solutions for Successful BOPIS Implementation

While Buy Online, Pick Up In-Store (BOPIS) programs drive significant retail value, proper execution requires overcoming several operational hurdles. Here are the critical challenges to address when launching or optimizing your BOPIS retail system:

1. Inventory Accuracy: The Foundation of BOPIS

The most common pitfall in BOPIS programs stems from inventory mismanagement. Without real-time synchronization between your POS software integration and ecommerce platform, you risk:

• Overselling hot products
• Creating stock discrepancies
• Damaging customer trust

Solution: Implement BOPIS software with:

• Live inventory updates across all channels
• Automated stock reservation for pickup orders
• Low-stock alerts to prevent fulfillment failures

2. Streamlined Order Fulfillment Processes

Customers expect same-day BOPIS efficiency, making internal workflows crucial. Common pain points include:

• Delayed order readiness
• Disorganized pickup areas
• Understaffed fulfillment teams

Optimization Tactics:

• Designate dedicated BOPIS fulfillment staff during peak hours
• Implement mobile scanners and in-store pickup automation
• Create color-coded staging zones for pickup orders
• Utilize smart locker systems for high-volume locations

3. Proactive Customer Communication

Poor communication leads to:

• Frustrated customers waiting for orders
• Unnecessary store calls
• Increased no-shows

Best Practices:

• Automated real-time SMS/app notifications at every stage
• Clear pickup instructions with store maps
• QR code check-in for contactless curbside pickup
• Option to reschedule pickups via mobile app

4. Optimized In-Store Pickup Experience

A confusing pickup process negates the convenience of buying online pickup in-store. Avoid:

• Unmarked pickup counters
• Untrained staff
• Long verification processes

Enhancements:

• Branded, well-lit pickup zones
• Staff tablets with POS curbside pickup integration
• Digital signature/ID verification tools
• Dual options for in-store vs. curbside pickup

5. Omnichannel Integration Challenges

Modern retail requires seamless connection between:

• Ship-to-store inventory transfers
• Curbside pickup technology
• Traditional ecommerce fulfillment
• In-store returns for online orders

Strategic Approach:

• Unified BOPIS retail systems that manage all channels
• API connections between ecommerce, POS, and automated store pickup systems
• Staff training on cross-channel processes
• Consistent experience whether customers choose curbside vs. in-store pickup

By addressing these challenges with the right BOPIS solution, retailers can transform operational hurdles into competitive advantages. The most successful BOPIS programs combine robust technology with thoughtful customer experience design – creating convenience that drives loyalty and incremental store sales.

In-Store Pickup vs. Curbside Pickup: Key Operational & Cost Differences

Understanding BOPIS and Curbside Fulfillment Models:

For retailers implementing buy online pickup in-store (BOPIS) programs or curbside pickup solutions, recognizing the operational distinctions between these fulfillment methods is crucial. Both options help avoid last-mile delivery costs but require different approaches.

1. The Hidden Costs of Last-Mile Avoidance

Both pickup models save up to $5-$10 per order typically spent on last-mile delivery, but:

• BOPIS preserves more margin by bringing customers into stores
• Curbside requires more labor hours per order for outdoor fulfillment

2. ROI of Different Fulfillment Methods

Curbside Pickup delivers value by:

• Reducing reliance on third-party delivery costs
• Serving customers who prioritize convenience
• Operating during peak demand periods
• Optimizing parking space efficiency
• Reducing staff overtime needs
• Streamlining outdoor fulfillment

BOPIS systems generate returns by:

• Driving more customers into stores
• Increasing add-on purchases
• Building stronger customer connections
• Enhancing omnichannel convenience

3. Margin Preservation Potential

• In-store pickup drives higher average order value (AOV) from impulse buys
• Curbside orders show faster fulfillment but lower upsell potential
• Inventory savings from reduced return rates turn out to be lower for BOPIS and curbside pickup as compared to shipped

4. Labor and Staffing Requirements

• BOPIS programs generally have lower labor costs than curbside pickup solutions
• In-store pickup fulfillment typically needs fewer staff as customers collect orders at designated counters
• Curbside pickup technology may require parking area modifications and weather protection
• Buy online, pick up in-store models tend to generate more additional in-store purchases

5. Key Performance Metrics to Track:

Retailers should track the following KPIs for both models:

• Order fulfillment time (from purchase to readiness)
• Staff efficiency metrics (orders processed per hour)
• Customer satisfaction scores for pickup experience
• Rate of additional in-store purchases

By understanding these differences between in-store vs. curbside pickup, retailers can optimize their omnichannel fulfillment strategy. The most effective approach often combines both methods to serve different customer needs while maximizing operational efficiency.

Best Practices for BOPIS and Curbside Strategy

1. Same-Day Pickup Execution

To successfully offer same-day BOPIS, retailers need robust inventory management systems that sync online and in-store stock levels in real time. Implement clear cutoff times and prioritize order processing during peak hours to meet delivery promises.

2. Reducing Friction

• Provide crystal-clear pickup instructions via email and short message service (SMS)
• Send automated real-time order alerts at each fulfillment stage
• Use visual guides showing pickup locations

3. Flexible Pickup Options

• Offer extended time slots (e.g., 2-hour windows)
• Allow after-hours pickup via smart locker systems
• Provide both curbside and in-store pickup choices

4. Instant Pickup Availability

Enable immediate order processing through:

• Automated payment verification
• Instant POS integration
• Priority tagging of pickup orders

5. App Incentivization

Drive app adoption by:

• Offering exclusive BOPIS promo codes
• Providing early access to sales
• Awarding bonus loyalty points

6. Location-Specific Readiness

• Urban stores: Optimize for faster turnaround
• Suburban locations: Allow slightly longer windows
• Adjust staffing based on pickup demand analytics

7. Customer Communication

Keep shoppers informed through:

• Proactive delay notifications
• Ready-for-pickup alerts
• Post-pickup satisfaction surveys

8. Order Management Systems

Invest in technology that:

• Syncs all sales channels
• Provides real-time inventory updates
• Tracks fulfillment KPIs

9. Staff Training

• Conduct regular BOPIS process workshops
• Train for both in-store and curbside pickup
• Empower staff to resolve issues

10. Data Utilization

• Analyze peak pickup times
• Track fulfillment speed metrics
• Monitor customer satisfaction trends

11. Program Promotion

• Highlight BOPIS benefits in marketing
• Use in-store signage
• Train staff to recommend pickup options

Why Should Ecommerce Businesses Prioritize a POS Integrated BOPIS Model?

For modern retailers, real efficiency comes from integrating BOPIS with a retail POS system, creating a seamless bridge between online and offline operations.

1. POS as the BOPIS Brain: Synchronizing Data Across Touchpoints

A POS-integrated BOPIS solution acts as the central hub, ensuring:

• Real-time inventory visibility across all sales channels
• Automatic order routing to the nearest store with available stock
• Unified customer profiles for personalized pickup experiences

Without POS and BOPIS integration, retailers risk overselling, stock discrepancies, and frustrated customers.

2. Inventory, Order, and Staff Alignment

A BOPIS-ready POS system eliminates silos by:

• Locking inventory the moment an online order is placed
• Updating stock levels instantly for both in-store and online shoppers
• Alerting staff via mobile POS devices when pickup orders are ready

This synchronization prevents overselling, reduces fulfillment errors, and keeps operations smooth.

3. Seamless Customer Experience Across Online & Offline

Customers expect a frictionless journey from checkout to pickup. A POS-powered BOPIS program ensures:

• Same-day pickup availability with accurate estimated time of arrivals (ETAs)
• Automated SMS/email notifications at every stage (order confirmation, ready for pickup, reminders)
• Quick in-store handoff via QR code scanning or order number lookup

4. FTx POS Advantage: Prebuilt Modules for Faster BOPIS Deployment

Not all POS systems are built for omnichannel retail. A BOPIS-optimized POS offers:

• Prebuilt fulfillment workflows – No custom coding required
• Built-in age verification – Essential for alcohol, tobacco, or pharmacy items
• Analytics dashboards – Track pickup times, staff performance, and customer behavior

By choosing a BOPIS-ready POS system, businesses future-proof their operations while meeting rising customer expectations for fast, flexible fulfillment.

In-Store vs. Curbside Pickup: Which One Is Right for Your Business?

As omnichannel retail evolves, choosing between in-store pickup (BOPIS) and curbside pickup becomes a strategic decision. Both fulfillment methods eliminate shipping costs while improving customer convenience, but each serves different business needs. Here’s how to determine the right approach for your operations.

Related Read: 13 Essential Tasks To Launch An Online Store >

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Pickup Options

1. Product Type Matters

BOPIS works best for:

• High-margin items where upsells are likely (electronics, apparel)
• Fragile/large products needing careful handling (appliances, furniture)

Curbside Pickup excels for:

• Groceries and perishable goods
• Standardized items with quick handoff (fast food, prescriptions)

2. Know Your Customer Demographic

• Urban shoppers often prefer curbside pickup for speed
• Suburban families may opt for BOPIS to combine errands
• Younger demographics expect contactless options, while older shoppers may favor traditional in-store pickup

3. Evaluate Your Pickup Volume

• High-volume locations benefit from dedicated curbside lanes
• Lower-volume stores can manage with in-store pickup counters
• Hybrid models work well when demand fluctuates seasonally

4. Location Logistics (Urban vs. Rural)

• Urban stores with parking challenges should prioritize streamlined curbside operations
• Suburban/rural locations with ample space can optimize BOPIS with impulse merchandising near pickup areas

5. Assess Available Resources

Curbside pickup requires:

• Parking space allocation
• Additional staff for outdoor fulfillment
• Weather-proof packaging solutions

BOPIS needs:

• Clear in-store signage
• Staff trained on order retrieval
• POS integration for quick handoffs

6. Hybrid Models for Peak Efficiency

Many retailers now blend both approaches:

• Offer curbside pickup during holidays/rush hours
• Default to BOPIS for regular days
• Use smart lockers for 24/7 pickup flexibility

Pro Tip: Start with BOPIS as your foundation, then layer in curbside pickup software for peak demand periods. Monitor fulfillment analytics to refine your approach over time.

Wrapping Up: The Future of Store Pickup and Why You Can’t Afford to Wait

Retail’s New Normal: Hybrid Fulfillment Is Here to Stay

The retail landscape has undergone a permanent transformation. What began as temporary solutions during challenging times has evolved into non-negotiable customer expectations. Consumers now demand – and increasingly prefer – flexible fulfillment options that fit their busy lives.

Why Are Pickup Options Now Mandatory?

i. Changed Consumer Behavior

Today’s shoppers seamlessly blend digital and physical shopping experiences. The ability to order online and pick up at their convenience has become as standard as traditional checkout lines. Retailers without robust pickup options risk losing customers to competitors who offer this baseline convenience.

ii. Operational Advantages

Omnichannel fulfillment creates significant business benefits beyond customer satisfaction:

• Reduced costs compared to home delivery
• Increased foot traffic driving additional in-store sales
• Lower product return rates
• Better inventory turnover through local fulfillment

iii. Competitive Necessity

In today’s retail environment, pickup options have become table stakes. Customers actively seek out retailers who can accommodate their preferred shopping journey, whether that’s quick curbside service or the ability to browse while collecting online orders.

The Foundation for Success: Your Technology Partner

Implementing effective pickup programs requires more than just willingness – it demands the right technological infrastructure:

• Real-time inventory visibility across all locations
• Automated customer communication systems
• Compliance solutions for regulated products
• Scalable architecture that grows with your business

FTx POS: Built for Modern Retail

Our solution provides everything needed to excel at omnichannel fulfillment:

• Out-of-the-box pickup functionality requiring minimal setup
• Integrated compliance tools for age-restricted items
• Smart automation that optimizes operations
• Seamless customer experiences from order to pickup