After almost ten years of business in wholesale, Alexandra Riggs decided to move her company, Oobi Baby & Kids, to the world of online retail earlier this year. Oobi Baby & Kids sells children’s garments and accessories; the label’s motto is “Let Children Be Children” and it believes in encouraging children up to the age of eight to use clothing as a form of self-expression. Providing customers 100% support, quality and customer service is a priority for Alexandra, who has found that the approach taken with wholesale is very different to the retail approach. Changing her strategies to suit the new face of her business has involved much brainstorming and lateral thinking. Alexandra says that a successful eCommerce website should focus on engaging with its audience and easy navigation, as well as having a strong voice. She uses social media sites like Facebook to market her products and to communicate regularly with customers in real time. Alexandra’s top tips for small businesses looking to sell online are:
- Offer great customer service – make sure that you are diligent and empathetic with your customers
- Be fully versed in all shipping options
- Have someone on the end of the phone – email alone will not cut it!
