After conducting some basic market research, he saw that consumers would be reluctant to buy his offbeat breathing and lifestyle products without first being able to see, smell and touch them. Because our products are unfamiliar, people need to experience them for themselves,'' explained Yu. Investing hundreds of thousands of dollars in physical stores and showrooms doesn't appeal to all Web-based businesses. But that just may be the price some companies must pay to attract mainstream customers. That may seem like a large number, but it represents only about 2 or 3 percent of the traditional retail market.
Consumers can order online or visit the store if they live nearby.
It recently opened 191 Gateway Country stores across the country, where consumers can test- drive merchandise before ordering online. In an effort to promote its brand in the real world, this online wedding resource and bridal registry site is selling paper magazines featuring its wedding fashions. This online brokerage firm opened its first retail outlet in Beverly Hills in July. The idea is to use he physical location to educate customers and hold seminars. The company plans to open branches in New York, Chicago and San Francisco next year.