OpenStore’s third annual conference provided attendees with indispensable retail strategies.
OpenStore by GasBuddy recently hosted its third annual OpenForum by OpenStore conference, where current OpenStore retailers shared their visions of digital marketing success, best practices and new developments in c-store technology.
The OpenForum event was initiated by OpenStore in 2012 to provide an environment where OpenStore retailers can network, discuss multi-channel marketing success and develop new ideas in the ever-evolving digital landscape. “This is my second OpenStore Forum. It is worth attending not only to learn industry trends and features, but for valuable networking and relationships,” shared Abby Albers, marketing director, J&H Oil Co.
Presenters at the OpenForum included Eric Rush, digital marketing manager at QuickChek. Rush shared knowledge on how the company has streamlined internal communications for their mobile app launch. His presentation touched on strategic elements that are crucial for mobile app launch success. OpenStore has found that across all clients, frontline staff is a critical component in the successful launch of a branded mobile app. Ensuring that employees are well versed and excited about sharing a mobile app with customers before a launch is key.
After employees are trained on the mobile app, promotion and strategic campaigns become the main focus for digital marketing success. marketing director of FriendShip Food Stores, Kevin Campbell, spoke to the power of contests, social media promotion and in-store signage to grow app downloads at OpenForum. By following a strategic multi- channel marketing approach, FriendShip Food Stores continues to garner well above industry average app download and coupon redemption rates.
OpenStore also revealed best in class marketing campaigns and tips, as well as a number of new and exciting technological advancements. OpenStore is introducing responsive websites, multilingual websites and apps, a partnership with FIS for loyalty and shared plans to release a mobile ordering solution to its retailers in 2016.
The event closed with a keynote presentation from Lindsey Harrison, CEO of SocialCents media who has years of experience in the retail industry working with some of the world’s most recognized brands. Harrison’s message to retailers was clear – in today’s world of digital clutter, personalized messages through app notifications, email SMS and social media, are the ones that will stand out.
