The coronavirus has forced retailers to adjust their operations in providing a safe environment for their customers and employees. And while most businesses have introduced sanitation and employee wellness plans, one retailer has approached the situation with a different strategy.

In the midst of the coronavirus crisis, spa and pool retailers have leaned into texting technology to offer virtual sales and curbside pick up to their customers. “People aren’t afraid to buy without looking now,” says Melissa Hutzenbuehler, co-owner of Hot Spring Spas and Pools of La Crosse. “They love texting us an inquiry and getting back to us at their leisure”.

Their team has also enabled texting features across all aspects of their business to ensure customers can easily communicate with their team. From setting up Webchat to convert website traffic to using the Payments tool to create “contactless” deposits during curbside pickup, Hot Spring Spas is providing customers with the virtual equivalent of a traditional advertising campaign.

“I tell everyone about Podium. It is a non-intrusive way to interact with customers. We actually have had one of the busiest months for the year and have met our sales goal for this month and it is only April 16th” says Hutzenbuehler. “Podium has been the best tool for us during these difficult times. It has helped us to better utilize curbside pickup by making ordering and paying convenient through texting. It has provided us with a way to sell hot tubs virtually and get a down payment! We absolutely recommend it and love it!”

Now more than ever retailers are digitally transforming and finding ways to use messaging to deliver them straight to a customer’s door in a contactless way. Using Podium to shift the customer experience boldly empowers them with the tools they need to work within the constraints of the crisis and succeed.