BikeBiz Bicycle and cycling retail news
Halfords has released a free software ‘app’ for smart phones, designed to help customers research, locate and purchase products.
Available on iPhone and Android-using smart phones, the app can be used to scan a Halfords barcode via the smartphone camera, which then takes the customer directly to the product information page on Halfords.com mobile website.
Customers can then access detailed information about the product, plus thousands of customer ratings and reviews to help guide their purchase.
The apps also make use of QR (Quick Response) codes which when scanned will take customers to relevant info on Halfords.com or partner web sites.
The app also uses GPS to show customers where their nearest Halfords is, with phone numbers on pre-dials, opening hour information and the like.
“We aim to give customers an even better online shopping experience through cutting edge technology,” said Jon Asbury, Halfords channel development manager. The apps are a natural progression from our successful mobile site. Customers will find the apps versatile, functional and easy to navigate.”
The apps were developed by Salmon and are designed to be updated with new features and versions.
Sue Pratt, account director at Salmon, added: "Halfords are a great example of how retailers should strive to have a "customer interaction platform" in place that will support their business now and in the future and deliver a great cross-channel customer experience."
Halfords mobile site is responsible for 15 per cent of total Halfords.com traffic and over five per cent of orders.
