It’s pretty obvious that most people would know the difference between being in a wholesale store vs. a boutique store, but there are other key differences that may not be as simple as the size or look of a retail space. Both types have their own sets of benefits for retailers, and it’s your decision to decide what works for you. Read more about how S-Cube Fixtures can help with strategy, customer experience, and more about different store types.
A big difference between a wholesale store and a boutique store is the products they source. Wholesale stores, like Costco and Sam’s Club, buy directly from big manufacturers, so often their merchandise only comes in large quantities. This bulk purchasing power creates cost savings, which are passed on to customers or buyers (often other businesses) looking to procure inventory efficiently.
With boutique stores, it’s entirely different. They have a variety of suppliers with specific or unique merchandise. Think about stores like Anthropologie or H&M that usually reflect popular trends with specific themes and aesthetics. Shoppers like these kinds of stores because they’re different and feel their products are hard to find elsewhere.
Wholesale stores market to a whole different customer audience than boutique stores. Wholesale businesses are all about B2B. Their main customers are fellow retailers or other big organizations. Boutiques market solely to the consumer. They prefer individuals who are looking for personalized or specific products. Boutiques often appeal to shoppers who want to discover, not just purchase.
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Pricing between the two different store types is different too. Wholesale stores like to price things by bulk. They have a competitive advantage from volume, not margin. While, boutiques are value-based pricing. They charge for exclusivity or the high quality of an individual product. They’re selling a story rather than a bargain or a deal in price.
Another big and important difference is fixtures and displays in these two types of stores. They vary by size and style. Wholesale fixtures and displays are more for high-volume merchandise like pallet racks or bin displays, while boutique fixtures are all about aesthetics and align with the brand image. You’d be more likely to see something like custom shelving or product pedestals in these kinds of stores. Retailers in any sort of store can benefit from custom fixtures to highlight products and reinforce brand identity., However, if you work in more of the wholesale operations, it may be more beneficial to choose fixtures that maximize product density and make it easy for restocking.
No matter what kind of store you decide to manage or run, it’s important to know what resources, goals, and target audiences you want to achieve. Make sure to get the right store fixtures and merchandise that make your store stand out. Having a competitive edge in a very high-paced environment is what can make you successful. If you’re interested in custom displays or more retail tips, visit S-Cube Fixtures! We’re all about transforming retail spaces to be your vision. Explore our point of purchase displays, custom fixtures, and so much more. Let us help you reach your business goals today!