Tips for Trade Service Businesses Setting up Shopify Stores

We work with a lot of Trade businesses and see a lot of business operations closely so these tips have been synthesized on what we have seen working well for others.  There are plenty of tips around how to set up a Shopify store, all focussed on the website, graphics, social proof, reviews and 

Embrace Fixed Price Supply and Install Items:
Offer fixed-price packages for your trade services, clearly stating what is included. This approach instills transparency and builds trust with customers, making it easier for them to understand the value they will receive.

Implement Advanced Payment Options:
Encourage customers to pay in advance for services through secure payment gateways. Offering discounts or incentives for upfront payments can help improve cash flow and reduce the risk of non-payment.

Create Prebuilt Packages for Convenience:
Design prebuilt packages for popular trade services, such as “Ceiling Fan Supply and Install” or “Air Conditioner Supply and Install.” This allows customers to easily select and purchase the services they need without the hassle of customization.  These can be paired with Pre Built Packages nicely in your job management system with Labour + Parts as a package.

Offer Upsell Opportunities While Onsite:
Utilize your Shopify store to upsell clients with “While We Are There” style offerings. Showcase related products or services during their service appointment, maximizing each customer interaction for potential additional sales.  While every other business tries this by showing it’s combining shipping in a trade business’s case the savings in Callout fees can be substantial.

Build Local Credibility:
Leverage your Shopify store to showcase customer reviews, testimonials, and case studies from satisfied clients. Highlight your expertise, professionalism, and successful projects to establish trust and credibility with potential customers in your local area.

Utilize High-Quality Imagery and Descriptions:
Present your trade services using professional images and detailed descriptions. High-quality visuals and comprehensive explanations instill confidence in potential customers, making them more likely to engage with your services.

Incorporate Real-Time Communication Channels:
Implement real-time communication channels like live chat or contact forms to engage with website visitors instantly. Prompt responses to inquiries demonstrate your commitment to exceptional customer service.  This is super important if you can have a local phone number so the customers know they can speak to someone local.

Provide Clear Contact Information:
Ensure that your store prominently displays contact information, including phone numbers, email addresses, and physical addresses. This accessibility builds confidence and allows customers to easily reach out to you for further inquiries.  Definitely also include the ABN number and local phone number in the footer so your local credentials are clearly visible. 

Offer Clear and Concise Terms of Service:
Define your terms of service, including warranty information, return policies, and cancellation policies, in a clear and concise manner. Transparent terms help customers feel more comfortable engaging with your business.

Optimize for Local Search:
Implement local search engine optimization (SEO) strategies to enhance your store’s visibility in local search results. This helps potential customers find your services when searching for trade businesses in their area.   This is a whole article in itself but typically would include creating pages on your site for specific keywor and specific suburbs.

Showcase Unique Value with Combined Supply and Install Warranty:
Set your trade service business apart from large big box equipment retailers by offering a unique combined supply and install warranty. Communicate the added value of a comprehensive warranty that covers both the product and the installation service, providing customers with peace of mind and confidence in their purchase.

Understanding your customers and who is the market for your products + Service combination.  If you are like most trades people we speak to you service a specified Geographical area say within 20 – 50 Kms of your branch 

Clearly Communicate the Post Codes Serviced:
Clearly display the specific post codes or areas where your trade services are available. This transparency helps potential customers determine if you cover their location, minimizing any confusion and ensuring you attract relevant leads.  Here is a list of AUS Postcodes kindly maintained by Matthew Procotor, Do not buy this from AUS Post. 

Specific Tips for if you are a LOCAL Focussed Store.

Embracing the “Buy Local” movement can be a powerful strategy for your trade service business to connect with your local community and foster customer loyalty. Here’s how you can tap into the “Be Local, Buy Local” movement through your Shopify store:

Local Branding: Emphasize your local identity and roots throughout your Shopify store. Use local landmarks, imagery, or slogans that resonate with your community to create a sense of belonging.

Local Testimonials: Feature testimonials and reviews from satisfied local customers on your website. Positive feedback from fellow community members can build trust and encourage others to support your business.

Local Partnerships: Collaborate with other local businesses, such as contractors or suppliers, and highlight these partnerships on your website. This demonstrates your commitment to supporting the local economy.

Local Charity Initiatives: Engage in community-oriented charity initiatives or events and showcase your involvement on your store. Supporting local causes aligns with the “Buy Local” movement’s values and enhances your reputation.

Local Service Area: Clearly define your service area on your Shopify store, so customers know that they are supporting a business that operates within the local community.

Local Content: Create blog posts or social media content that focuses on local projects, stories, or events. Showcasing your involvement in the local community enhances your credibility as a trusted local business.

Local Discounts or Special Offers: Offer exclusive promotions or discounts to local customers through your Shopify store. This incentive encourages people to support local businesses.

Local Customer Spotlights: Spotlight loyal local customers on your website or social media, sharing their positive experiences with your trade services. This fosters a sense of community and encourages others to choose your business.

Local Outreach: Engage with local influencers or community leaders who align with your brand values. Collaborate with them to spread the word about your business to a wider local audience.

Local Events: Host or participate in local events, trade shows, or workshops to showcase your expertise and services to the community. This establishes you as a trusted authority in your industry.

By tapping into the “Be Local, Buy Local” movement, your trade service business can create meaningful connections with the community, drive local support, and position yourself as a go-to choice for customers in your area. Incorporate these strategies into your Shopify store to demonstrate your commitment to the local economy and watch your business thrive as a beloved local establishment.

Is your business an Authorized SERVICE Provider?

If your trade service business is an authorized repair or service company for a specific brand of appliance or equipment, it’s essential to highlight this on your Shopify store. Here’s how you can effectively communicate this valuable aspect to your customers:

Prominent Brand Logos: Display the authorized brand logos prominently on your website. This immediately establishes your credibility and expertise as an authorized service provider for those brands.

Authorized Service Provider Badge: Use an “Authorized Service Provider” badge or label next to the brand names on your homepage or service pages. This visual cue informs customers that you have official approval to service their products.

Showcase Certifications: Mention any certifications or special training your technicians have received directly from the brand. Certifications add an extra layer of trust and confidence for customers seeking repair services.

Branded Service Pages: Create dedicated service pages for each brand you are authorized to service. These pages should highlight the brand’s products you can repair and the level of expertise you bring as an authorized repair company.

Testimonials from Brand Customers: Feature testimonials from customers who have had their appliances or equipment serviced by your business. Highlight the satisfaction of having their products fixed by an authorized service provider.

OEM Parts Usage: Emphasize that your repairs utilize genuine Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts, directly sourced from the brand. This ensures customers that their products are maintained with authentic components.

Mention Warranty Coverage: If your repairs are covered by the brand’s warranty or extended warranty, communicate this clearly. This will encourage customers to choose your services over non-authorized repair options.

Exclusive Brand Deals: Offer exclusive deals or discounts on repairs for customers with appliances or equipment from the authorized brand. This adds value for brand loyalists and encourages them to opt for your services.

Video Content: Create video content showcasing your technicians working on the brand’s products. Visual proof of your expertise will reinforce the trustworthiness of your services.

Social Media Engagement: Share updates about your authorized repair status and positive customer experiences on your social media platforms. Engaging with customers online can further strengthen your brand reputation.

By prominently communicating your status as an authorized repair or service company for a particular brand on your Shopify store, you position your business as a reliable and preferred choice for customers seeking high-quality repairs and service for their appliances or equipment. This distinction can become a significant selling point that sets your business apart from competitors.

By following these tips, trade service businesses can effectively set up and run successful Shopify stores, providing a seamless experience for customers while maximizing sales and credibility in the local market.