Office Depot has partnered with QLess, a wait management and mobile check-in solution provider, to let shoppers remotely “save” a spot in line for print and copy services through the Office Depot app. Customers also can receive status updates and reminders regarding their expected wait time, request additional time or exit the line.
The capability will be available at 600 Office Depot and OfficeMax locations in Atlanta, Baltimore, Chicago, Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami and other markets. Shoppers who want to join the line but don’t have the app can “text to join” or ask an in-store associate for help.
Long lines are a challenge for retailers: 57% of consumers say they have experienced a long wait at the checkout queue, according to Elastic Path. The app-based approach to overcoming this issue may be a winner, as the same report also found that 67% of customers said they’d switch to a new brand if they offered a more futuristic experience.
Advertisement
Additionally, 73% of consumers say that good customer service encourages them to spend more money than they had originally planned, according to the International Council of Shopping Centers. Improving speed and ease of checkout can be a big help in this area; 59% of respondents consider it one of the most important parts of the overall experience.
