Payless pulled a fast one several weeks ago in storied Santa
Monica, CA. The discount footware purveyor took over a former Armani
store and stocked it with $19.99 pumps and $39.99 boots. That should not
surprise anyone familiar with Payless, but that's not the whole story.
The company and its marketing agency then invited groups of Southern
California influencers to attend the grand opening of a new retailer
called "Palessi" and asked their invited guests to comment on the
merchandise featured in the store.
Those invited to the grand opening did not have a clue they were
evaluating discount shoes often sold in malls and strip centers. They
were asked how much they would pay for the merchandise they were
evaluating. The top amount was $640 and the store recorded more than
$3,000 in sales within the first couple of hours that it was open.
Payless rang up the sales but did not keep the money. Party goers
who made purchases were told of the prank and received a full refund
along with free shoes.
What lessons does the Payless prank teach decorative plumbing and
hardware showrooms? It's the story that matters - products are products.
Both hot and cold water comes out of showerheads and faucets. Sinks are
vessels where water can be trapped and drained. Vanities provide space
to store things. Stop focusing on products and start telling better
stories. When you do, you can convince a noted fashion influencer to
pay $640 for a pair of shoes that otherwise could be had for $19.99.
Showroom sales professionals need to learn how to tell compelling
stories that match the built-in narratives and dreams of their
customers.
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