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How Mass Mobile Apps Reduce App Development Cost

App Development Cost

For most small and mid-sized businesses, building a mobile app has always felt like a choice between two bad options: spend a small fortune hiring an app design company and wait months to see results, or skip the app entirely and watch competitors capture the mobile audience you are leaving behind.

We built Mass Mobile Apps to eliminate that trade-off. As a white-label mobile app platform serving businesses, agencies, and government organizations of any size, it delivers enterprise-grade native apps without the enterprise-grade price tag or timeline.

The real reason app development costs so much

When you hire a traditional app design company, you are paying for an entire team – frontend developers, backend engineers, UX designers, project managers, and QA testers – all billing hourly from a blank screen. Every feature, from a loyalty program to a booking system, has to be designed, coded, tested, and debugged individually. Each revision costs more time, and since the code is custom, ongoing maintenance requires that same expensive team on retainer.

The result? A typical agency build runs $50,000 to $270,000 or more, takes six to twelve months, and often needs further fixes after launch. For most business owners, that math simply does not work.

How Mass Mobile Apps changes the equation

Mass Mobile Apps replaces the custom-build model with a proven, pre-built mobile app platform that already contains the infrastructure most businesses actually need. Our no-code app builder combines the simplicity of a self-serve tool with the sophistication of a custom development agency – no technical knowledge or coding required.

The platform supports native iOS and Android apps with features including loyalty programs, e-commerce, bookings, event ticketing, push notifications, geofencing, gamification, podcasts, social features, smart reviews, and business directories. Because the core infrastructure is already built and maintained, those savings pass directly to clients. You are paying for access to a mature, tested platform rather than repeated development labor.

At-a-glance comparison

CategoryTraditional App Design CompanyMass Mobile Apps Platform
Upfront investment$50,000 – $150,000+Fraction of custom cost
Time to launch6 – 12 monthsAs fast as 5 – 14 days
Coding requiredYes (full dev team)None
Feature setBuilt from scratch each timePre-built, enterprise-grade
OS updates & maintenanceSeparate ongoing retainerIncluded in the platform
App store submissionYour responsibilityHandled by us
Ongoing supportVaries by agencyContinuous, dedicated support

The features that actually drive revenue

Lower cost means nothing if the app itself does not perform. Here is what our platform actually includes.

Loyalty programs. Our founder built this platform after failing to find a decent mobile loyalty app for their own retail store – so loyalty features are central to what we offer, not tacked on. Customers who stay loyal spend more. The tools to earn that loyalty are built in.

Shopify and E-commerce. Connect your existing Shopify store and your customers get a proper native shopping experience – not a wrapped website. Products, inventory, and orders stay in sync without you touching anything.

Booking and operational tools. Restaurants, gyms, salons – we have industry-specific modules that work out of the box. No lengthy setup, no custom development fees just to get basic operations running.

Engagement and white-label. Push notifications, geofencing, and gamification keep customers returning. For agencies and entrepreneurs, our white-label setup means you can sell branded apps to your own clients and build a business around the platform.

Speed as a cost-saving factor

Every month your app is not live is a month of lost revenue. We can get your business live on Google Play in as few as five days and on the Apple App Store within fourteen days – compared to the six to twelve months a traditional agency typically requires. That is real revenue you start capturing sooner.

Eliminating the hidden costs of maintenance

App development cost does not stop at launch. iOS and Android updates constantly, and a custom-built app that is not updated to match will break, which means going back to your development team and paying again.

We include lifetime updates as part of our service. Our team handles all technical publishing and ongoing maintenance, removing an entire category of unpredictable post-launch costs from your budget.

See it before you commit

Unlike most agencies that require a large deposit before you see anything working, we let you schedule a live apps demo to explore the full platform before making any financial commitment. You see exactly what you are getting – no surprises, no wasted money.

Ongoing app customer support

With freelancers or smaller agencies, support often disappears once a project is delivered. We provide continuous app customer support as a built-in part of the relationship, backed by documentation and live online assistance – for startups and scaling organizations alike.

Conclusion

Mass Mobile Apps does not just lower the price. We change the value proposition. By utilizing a powerful mobile app platform and a “Done-for-You” service, you get the industry-leading feature set without the legacy baggage of custom development. You get to own the home screen at a price point that allows your business to actually grow.

Ready to see what is possible? Visit Mass Mobile Apps to schedule your demo and start building today.

FAQs

Q1. Why is a mobile app platform cheaper than a design agency? 

You are leveraging an existing, high-end infrastructure instead of paying for manual labor from scratch.

Q2. Does a no-code app builder mean I have to do the work? 

No, Mass Mobile Apps is a”Done-for-You” service where our experts handle the build and launch.

Q3. How does the Shopify sync affect my app development cost? 

It eliminates the need for expensive custom API development by using our pre-built native integration.

Q4. What kind of app customer support do you provide after launch? 

We provide ongoing technical management and ensure your app stays compatible with all OS updates.

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How Mobile Apps Help Businesses Increase Customer Engagement

no-code app builder

You did the hard part. You ran the ads. You optimized the website. You finally got people to buy. And then… nothing. No second purchase. No real follow-up. Just silence.

That gap is not unusual. It is where most businesses lose momentum. The failure does not happen at acquisition. It happens right after. Staying connected to customers is much harder than getting their attention in the first place. This is where the Mass Mobile Apps solution starts making sense. It is not just an add-on. It is a dedicated platform designed to keep the relationship going.

Why Your Current Channels Have a Ceiling

Before looking at how a mobile app works, you must be honest about why your current tools are struggling.

1. Email is losing its impact

Industry-wide open rates have dropped below 22 percent. You write the subject lines and design the templates only for them to land in a promotions tab that nobody scrolls.

2. Social media reach is not yours to keep

You built a following. But getting that following to see your content now costs money every single time. One algorithm change and your whole strategy needs a complete overhaul. That is borrowed land. It is not a foundation.

3. Mobile websites do not create habits

A visitor browses and maybe buys. Then they are gone. There is no persistent presence on their phone. When they are ready to buy again, they will search the category and land wherever the algorithm takes them. It could be you. It could easily be a competitor.

ChannelAvg. Engagement RateYou Own the Audience?
Push Notifications (App)~90%Yes
SMS~45%Yes
Email Marketing~22%Yes
Social Media (Organic)~6%No

The Mass Mobile Apps Difference: A Done-for-You Powerhouse

Most business owners hear “mobile app” and think of high costs and long timelines. They imagine months of coding and back-and-forth technical meetings. Mass Mobile Apps flips that model.

MMA is a done-for-you no-code app builder. This means you do not need to hire a developer or learn how to code. The platform is positioned to have the industry-leading feature set ready to go from day one. You get a professional, branded app without any of the development headaches. While other app design companies might focus only on basic analytics, MMA provides a complete ecosystem to run your entire business.

One of the most powerful features of the MMA no-code app development platform is the seamless Shopify integration. If you are running a Shopify store, you already know the struggle of mobile browser abandonment. People add things to their carts and then get a text message or a phone call. They leave the browser and never come back.

When you build your app with Shopify integration through Mass Mobile Apps, you transform that experience.

  • Sync your inventory: Your products and collections sync automatically.
  • One-tap checkout: Remove the friction that kills conversions on mobile sites.
  • Persistent carts: The app remembers what they liked, keeping your brand front and center.

This is exactly how top-tier brands handle retention. However, MMA offers this high-level integration at a fraction of the pricing typically found in the industry. It allows smaller businesses to compete with the giants.

Features That Actually Run Your Business

An app that is only a storefront is a missed opportunity. The Mass Mobile Apps platform includes pre-built features that serve as the engine for your growth.

1. Industry-Leading Loyalty Programs

Physical punch cards get lost. Digital rewards buried in emails go unread. A loyalty program built inside your app is visible and instant. Customers see their progress in real time. This visibility changes buying behavior in a measurable way. You can set up point systems or dollar-based rewards that keep people coming back.

2. Smart Push and Geofencing

This is the most direct communication channel available. Push notifications hit nearly 90 percent open rates. MMA takes this further with geofencing. Imagine a customer walking near your physical location and receiving a personalized offer on their lock screen. That is not just engagement. That is a perfectly timed invitation.

3. Native Performance for iOS and Android

Some builders offer “hybrid” apps that feel like slow websites. MMA delivers native apps. This means they are fast, responsive, and take full advantage of the phone features. This professional feel builds trust with your audience.

4. All-in-One Management

From online booking systems for salons to restaurant management tools for cafes, the features are already there. You can manage appointments, take orders, and handle payments all within your branded app.

The Quickest Path to Launch

Timing is as important as strategy. Traditional custom mobile app development can take six months to a year. With the Mass Mobile Apps streamlined onboarding, your app can be live on the Apple App Store within 14 days. It can be on Google Play within just 5 days.

This speed does not come at the expense of quality. Because the platform uses a “done-for-you” approach, the technical heavy lifting is handled by experts. You focus on your brand and your customers. MMA handles the publishing and the updates.

Positioning Your Brand for the Future

For agencies, this model is a game-changer. The white-label mobile app reseller program allows you to offer these high-end features to your clients under your own brand name. You provide a recurring service that adds massive value without needing to build the infrastructure yourself.

Conclusion

Customer engagement does not drop off because people lose interest overnight. It fades when there is no easy reason to come back. Mobile apps fix that by staying present on the most personal device your customer owns.

Mass Mobile Apps makes this transition simple. It provides a starting point that already works. You get the leading feature set in the industry, a fraction of the cost of custom builds, and a launch speed that is unmatched. If you want to stop losing customers to the “silence” after a purchase, it is time to move on to their home screen.

FAQs

Q1. Do I need technical experience to build an app with Mass Mobile Apps? 

No — as a no-code app builder, it’s built for business owners with zero technical background.

Q2. How is this different from a mobile website? 

A website doesn’t live on your customer’s phone, can’t send push notifications, and doesn’t build the habit that drives repeat business.

Q3. Does it integrate with Shopify? 

Yes — Shopify integration is included out of the box, no custom mobile app development required.

Q4. How long does it take to launch? 

Apple App Store within 14 days, Google Play within 5 days, from completed onboarding.

Q5. Is this a good fit for agencies? 

Yes — the white-label mobile app reseller program is built for agencies offering mobile as an ongoing service to clients.

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How Mobile App Platforms Turn Browsers into Buyers

Most businesses work hard to bring people to their website, social pages, or online shop. But attention alone does not lead to growth. What really matters is what happens next. 

This is where a strong mobile app platform can make a real difference. An app gives your business a direct and convenient way to stay part of the customer’s routine. It shortens the path to action, supports repeat buying, and keeps engagement high without depending only on email or paid ads.

An App Changes How Customers Interact with Your Business

A website is useful when people are discovering your brand. An app becomes more useful once they already know you. It removes extra steps and gives customers a quicker way to act. They can browse, order, rebook, message, or check updates in seconds.

That ease matters more than many businesses realise. People often leave websites because they are distracted, interrupted, or simply not ready to complete a task. An app creates a smoother environment. 

For businesses selling products online, this is especially valuable. A well-planned e commerce app can make product discovery, checkout, and reordering far easier than a mobile website. That convenience often leads to better conversion rates and stronger repeat sales over time.

Sales Growth Often Comes from Small Moments

Many brands think sales growth comes only from big campaigns. In reality, growth often comes from small moments such as purchase reminders, saved payment details, loyalty rewards, or quick rebooking.

Apps support these moments naturally. They allow businesses to create a customer journey that feels simple from start to finish. Instead of asking users to begin again every time, the app remembers them. That creates a more helpful experience and makes customers more likely to come back.

What Businesses Gain from Using an App

Here is a simple way to look at where apps create value:

Business NeedHow an App HelpsLikely Result
Faster purchasesOne-tap access, saved details, simple checkoutMore completed sales
Repeat businessReorder tools, loyalty features, timely remindersHigher customer retention
Better engagementPersonalised updates and in-app messagingMore regular user activity
Stronger brand presenceBrand stays visible on the customer’s phoneBetter recall and trust
Easier supportQuick help, chat, or service accessLower drop-off and fewer missed sales

This chart focuses on business outcomes rather than just features. Businesses do not need every function. They need the right functions that support buying behaviour and customer convenience.

Different Businesses Need Different App Strategies

Not every company needs the same type of build. Some brands want a custom product from day one. Others want a faster route to market so they can test demand first. Search demand around build your own app shows how many brands now want more control over the app creation process. That is why many companies now explore options such as no code app builders or a white label mobile application.

These routes can help businesses launch faster, especially when time and budget matter. They are useful for brands testing an idea, entering a new market, or launching without a long development cycle.

This is where the right partner becomes important. An experienced app building company can help map the business goal first, then recommend the best route based on customer needs, not trends. In the same way, a thoughtful app design company can turn a good idea into an experience that feels simple, polished, and easy to use. 

The Real Question Is Not Whether You Can Launch

Today, many businesses want to create their own app using more flexible tools and platforms. The bigger question is whether the app will support meaningful growth after launch. A useful app should solve a real customer problem, save time, or make buying easier.

The strongest business apps are not built just for appearance. They are built around behaviour. They understand what customers often do, what slows them down, and what would make them return more often. That is what turns an app from a digital extra into a working sales channel.

Why The Right App Approach Matters

A mobile app should not be seen as just another place where your business appears. It should be seen as a tool that helps customers act faster and stay connected longer. For businesses that want stronger loyalty, smoother digital journeys, and better long-term results, the right app strategy can create clear commercial value. The key is to build around customer behaviour, not just technology.

FAQs

1. Why does an app help businesses increase sales?

    An app reduces steps in the buying journey, improves convenience, and gives customers a faster route back to your business.

    2. Is an app only useful for large brands?

      No. Small and mid-sized businesses can benefit just as much, especially when repeat orders, bookings, or loyalty matter.

      3. Can no-code platforms work for business growth?

        Yes, in many cases. No code app builders can be a smart option for faster launches and early testing.

        4. What is the benefit of a white-label app?

          A white label mobile application allows businesses to launch under their own brand without building everything from scratch.

          5. What matters most in a successful business app?

            Clear purpose, simple design, useful features, and a customer journey that removes friction.

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            Benefits of a Mobile Loyalty App

             

             

             

             

             

            Today’s Consumer spends an inordinate amount of time on their smart phones.  From playing games, connecting on Social Media, and even doing their banking.  Smart Businesses have seen this trend, and understand that they need to position themselves on a channel that consumes so much of their clients attention.

            The absolute best and most effective way to do this is to adopt a Mobile First Strategy for your Business, one that includes a Responsive Website (which means that the site is view able on mobile) and a Custom Mobile App.

             

            • Apps Reduce Marketing Costs

            Built in E mail and SMS programs, along with unlimited Push Notifications give your business the ability to connect with your customers and know your message is being seen, all at virtually no cost.

            • Apps are a Constant Reminder of Your Business

            Mobile Apps REINFORCE YOUR BRAND by increasing visibility.  Your Businesses Logo in an icon on a screen your customers look at hundreds of times a day is priceless!

            • An App Will Generate Repeat Business and à INCREASE SALES!

            With our integrated tiered Loyalty Program, you can now reward your customers for shopping instead of discounting.  Studies have proven, that Businesses with a Loyalty Program in place do 20+% better than those without one.  Our Proprietary Actionable Loyalty Initiatives, (ALI) will allow you to reward your customers for actions in the app, like sharing an image, notification or liking any of your existing social media pages.

            • Apps Give You Measurable Marketing Tools

            Push Notifications have open rates of 98%, SMS/Text Messages have open rates of 99.9%, compare that to emails that have open rates of 20-30%, and you will start to see a real return on your investment.  You no longer have to rely on “Hope Marketing”, with the built-in marketing tools in the Mass Mobile Apps platform you can new send a marketing message and know it’s being seen!

            • M-Commerce – Monetize With Mobile

            Integrate your existing e-commerce site into your app, or add an e-commerce module that will allow you to sell products directly through the app.  Today its important that your business is available to your customers in a Mobile Channel.

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            4 Ways to Build Trust With Your Customers

            What efforts do you take to build trust with your customers? Building solid, trusting relationships with your customer base is one of the best ways to retain them. In fact, News Cred’s recent study revealed that among millennials, the top three brand loyalty drivers include a great product (77%), followed by brand recognition (69%) and trust (69%).

            Research also shows that retaining customers is much cheaper than acquiring new ones. The longer a customer is loyal to a brand, the more money they spend. What does that mean for your bottom line? According to a study cited by Retention Science, increasing customer retention by just 5 percent increases profits by 25-95 percent.

            Needless to say, building trust with your customers is a worthwhile and profitable endeavor.

            Here are four ways to build trust with your audience:

            1. Communicate with customers on a regular basis
            Communications with your customer base should not revolve solely around purchasing. If customers feel like every communication is a sales push, before long, your attempts to connect will get ignored and you’ll dash any hope of building trust.
            Instead, communicate with your customers on a regular basis. Consider emailing a regular newsletter, sharing links to helpful articles on your social media channels or providing how-to articles on your blog. Customers appreciate useful information that makes their day a little better.

            For example, if you run a fast casual restaurant, create a monthly newsletter to highlights upcoming menu items and introduce new staff. If you run a cleaning company, share an article containing tips to clean up nail polish or general organizing or stain removing hacks. Be intentional with your communication. If customers hear from you with useful tips, product updates, relevant market research, etc… on a regular basis, your occasional promotional email won’t feel out of place. It’s just another message from a friend.

            2. Provide quality customer service in your store

            One of the best ways to gain trust is to offer your customers service they can’t find anywhere else. Here’s a quick checklist to make sure your service inside your store is top-notch:

            • Make sure your staff is friendly.
            • Create a welcoming environment that keeps customers coming back.
            • Train employees to nurture your customer relationships. Don’t assume employees know how to interact with your audience, show them.
            • Collect and use feedback. Ask your customers to provide feedback and use it to implement changes that can improve their experience. Collect feedback in store and online.
            • Show gratitude. Make sure your customers know that you appreciate them. Send exclusive deals to your most valued customers, host a customer appreciation event and set up a loyalty program that rewards your customers for their continued support.

            3. Consider providing customer support on social
            With so many of your customers being on social media, using these platforms to offer service and support is quickly catching on. Xbox, a popular gaming system company, offers customer support through Twitter. Customers can tweet questions and get live help. It’s so popular that Xbox has created multiple accounts to manage the traffic.
            If you plan to offer support on social channels there are a few tools that can help. ZenDesk, for example, offers software that manages customers’ requests and creates a self-help arena for customers to troubleshoot issues on their own. Desk.com is another option. It creates a universal inbox where you can help your customers through social sites like Facebook and Twitter all from one dashboard. Your online service should compliment your service efforts in store.

            4. Own up to mistakes

            Customers reward companies that are honest and transparent. If you make a mistake, own up to it. Whether you missed a service appointment or have products on back order, it’s important to communicate any issues or delays with those customers.
            As soon as you’re aware of a problem, reach out. For example, when Adorama fell short on cameras, an email was sent to explain that the item was on backorder. The company apologized for the wait and offered additional relevant information like how to cancel an order.
            Mistakes happen. Research shows 95% of complaining customers will forgive a company if a problem is resolved in the next interaction. So, in addition to being honest, you also need to act quickly. Customers expect swift solutions.

            How do you build trust with your customers? Feel free to share any additional strategies or tips.

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            Boost Loyalty Program Participation

            Loyalty program participation and enrollment are two completely different things. Participation is when your loyalty program members are actively engaged in the program. Its success is based on a high level of member engagement, not on enrollment. In this post, I will explain how to boost your loyalty program participation rates.

            Enrollment vs. Participation

            As I mentioned before, enrollment does not mean members are participating. Joining a program is easy, but getting people to engage, is the real goal. Typically, loyalty program enrollment is high but active participation is low. This is because many retailers both online and offline give a great incentive to join (which I recommend) but fail to offer any subsequent motivators or opportunities to engage.  The success is in the follow-up. The goal is to entice people to join your program and then give them reasons to engage.

            Boost Loyalty Program Participation
            The question now becomes, what do I do to get all the members I attract to my program to stay and participate? Here are 5 ways to encourage loyalty members to actively participate in your loyalty program:

            1. Be Transparent
            A survey conducted by Colloquy Loyalty found that the number one factor behind active participation in loyalty programs is simplicity. An astonishing 81% of respondents state that ease of use is important to them. So how do you adjust your program to these findings?

            Keep it simple. You want your program to be as transparent and user-friendly as possible. Make sure your members know everything they need to know to actively participate. You must be very clear on how they will earn and spend points. Have an area of your site dedicated to educating members on how many points can be earned and how. The most important ones to be clear on are the number of points earned per purchase and the number of points required to redeem a reward.

            2. Lots of Ways to Earn Points
            Your members have grown tired of those standard retail loyalty programs that only give points when you make a purchase. They want a program that gives them a number of different ways to earn points. The same study by Colloquy found that 50% of respondents said that they participate more in programs that have multiple ways to earn.

            Adding variety to your loyalty program is not hard to do especially with e-commerce programs. Online stores can easily offer rewards for things like social sharing, referring friends, birthdays and more. A solution like a Mass Mobile App makes it easy to add variety to your online loyalty program. You can easily integrate existing e-commerce platforms with Mass Mobile Apps.

            3. On-Site Reminders and Cues
            In the online world, you do not have a cashier asking every person who checks out if they would like to collect reward points on their purchase. That is why you must strategically place loyalty program reminders across your website especially on your homepage, above the fold. Not only does this remind existing members to participate it also acts as a point of differentiation from your competitors. If you have a program and they don’t, a potential customer will likely choose you. You can also use other on-site promotion methods like floating tabs, slider or hero images, and even pop-ups (just be sure not to annoy your customer).

            4. External Reminders and Cues
            Reminders on your site are great but they’re only effective if your customers are visiting you frequently. According to many studies, email marketing is the most effective and easy to use marketing tool available to today’s digital marketers.

            A great way to boost participation in your loyalty program is to combine loyalty and email marketing into a “super campaign”. Use email to send your program members notifications relating to earning and redeeming points, special bonus offers and upcoming sales or promotional events. You can also email all of your non-program members to let them know about the benefits of the program. Combining your loyalty marketing and email marketing is one of the most effective ways to increase program awareness and boost loyalty program participation.

            5. Obtainable Rewards
            One of the biggest mistakes I see with any loyalty program is making the rewards too difficult to accrue. How is anyone supposed to get the 20,000 points needed for your reward if you are giving 1 point per $1 spent on your tea site? They would have to spend $20,000 to get a reward. Would you participate in that program?

            Your loyalty program members become hooked on your program when they first spend points on a reward, not as they are accumulating points. That is why you need to make it easy to obtain rewards. I like to recommend a substantial points reward for referrals.  Help grow your membership organically. When a member refers a friend who makes a purchase, reward them handsomely and they will tell two more friends!
            I also like offering a few of what I call “aspirational rewards.” These are rewards that are designed to be ridiculously hard to achieve. They give your program a talking point and can help differentiate your program. Just be sure there are plenty of obtainable rewards as well.

            How Do I Know if Participation is Improving?
            You now have a few things you can do to boost your loyalty program’s participation rate. But, before you race out and try all these new tactics at once, you will want to know how to measure success. Customer lifetime value, repeat purchase rate, and net promoter score can be key performance indicators. However, if you want to measure changes in your participation rate I recommend using your redemption rate. Your redemption rate shows you the percentage of your issued points that are being converted into a reward. If your members are participating, they will be spending their loyalty points. Start by performing the above equation today to get your baseline. Then make some of the above changes and measure your redemption rate again. An increase in redemption means that your participation is on the rise.

            Just remember that if your redemption rate is currently below 20% you may have a serious loyalty program problem. If that is the case, feel free to contact us. You can also check out our free resources like our loyalty ebook library and video learning center.

            Here is one business we’ve worked with to go mobile. Watch this video about Denim Industries:

            Interested in getting your own retail mobile app? Click here for a free demo.

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            Increase Customer Spending : Six Ways to Encourage Loyal Spenders

            Finding Value
            For better or worse, I am somewhat of a regular at the local casino. I don’t have TOO many vices, and I’m always extremely responsible.  I have a pre-set limit of how much I’ll allow myself to spend per visit and have only exceeded it on a handful of special occasions. Many people I know spend much more on bar tabs or shopping sprees in a day than I spend in two weeks at the casino, and none of them will have a chance at striking it rich…but that’s enough of me trying to justify a bad habit of mine.

            Each time go, I’m struck by the “favouritism” shown to the high rollers who saunter in only three or four times a year.  I may know the dealers by name, given how often I’m there, but I’m not spending enough for the casino to see any value in enticing me to return. It’s a business, after all.  And like any business, they need to pay close attention to the serious customers and encourage them to come back. Free meals and the odd free night will do just that.

            What small business owners can do to encourage customers to spend more each visit
            While regular customers are a good sign for your business and are absolutely worth your time to cultivate, at the end of the day you’re running a business. You need money to keep your doors open, and the more money somebody spends at your place of business, the more valuable they are to your success.

             

            With that in mind, here are a few suggestions to consider in order to increase customer spending per visit:

            1. Build Loyalty  (You can read other entries on how to gain loyal followers, but our focus with this entry is how to increase customer spending per visit.)

            You’ve no doubt heard us bang the drum on the importance of loyalty. That’s no coincidence.

            In today’s world of retail e-commerce competition is higher than ever. Interested shoppers can search online for what they’re after to find the best price and free shipping. You want them to keep coming back to YOU.  You’ve already earned their trust.  Now you have to build loyalty. Consider having them try out a new premium, high-priced item. Let them know they are part of an elite “membership” with exclusive access. Not only will this make them feel special and a valued part of your business (which they are), you will also establish the perfect control group to test this new product or service you’re about to debut.  It’s also worth keeping in mind that loyal customers are far less sensitive to higher prices than infrequent or completely new customers.

            2. Package Your Goods

            “Would you like fries with that?” represents the quintessential package deal. Burger purveyors realized long ago the value of bundling their goods, which is why you would be hard pressed to find a fast food chain that didn’t offer some semblance of a value meal. Burger, fries and a drink may not be what you’re selling, but don’t overlook this tried-and-true mechanism of increasing your customer’s spending.

            Some packages just make sense, plain and simple. If your business is in the hiking/backpacking trade, you probably sell your fair share of sleeping bags and tents. You also probably sell a considerable number of backpacks, water purifiers and hiking poles. Many of your customers are probably purchasing an item or two for a backpacking trip. Why not combine them and offer a slight discount on a bundle? If your customer buys a winter-rated sleeping bag, why not offer to throw in a set of hiking poles for 25% off? They may be in the market for the poles as well, and a small discount certainly won’t break your bank.
            Another tactic to consider when it comes to bundling is to offer deep discounts on items that you’re struggling to move off the shelf. If you have an overflow of mosquito netting that you just can’t seem to offload, try offering it for 75% off with any purchase over a certain dollar amount. You may not be making as much (or any) money off the netting, but at least you’re reducing your inventory and making shelf space for something that will (hopefully) be a stronger seller.

            3. Raise Prices
            This is often seen as tremendously scary territory for small business owners – after all, consumers can be notoriously sensitive to increased prices and rightly so. But instead of viewing it as simply raising prices without cause, try and think about what kind of value and results you are providing, in addition to your goods and services. It may be wise to try and match your prices to be in line or under what your competition is offering. After all, don’t you feel your offerings are superior to theirs?

            Test the waters with small increases – something as little as one to five percent on a basic or entry level item that you know to be popular. Give it a few months, then compare this data to your previous, lower price. Were customers disgruntled by the increase in price? Odds are, they were not, and with measurable data you’ll be able to see if the increase was worth it. Experiment with different prices for a reasonable amount of time and you’ll find that the market will dictate the pricing sweet spot for you.

            Happy and comfortable customers spend more. Use that to your advantage.
            In addition to some of the more straightforward tactics mentioned above,
            there are a few seemingly non-traditional ones that are worth mentioning:

            4. Follow Your Nose
            If you run a bakery, cologne shop, or potpourri emporium, you can skip right over this – but for other small business owners, do not overlook the importance of a fragrant storefront. Studies by marketing services company DMX and the Smell and Taste Research Foundation have both shown that customers are not only more likely to make purchases in a pleasant-smelling environment, but are also willing to spend more money for the same item. The most popular fragrances to open up the ol’ wallet? Coconuts, flowers, and tropical gardens.

            5. Let The Sunshine In
            People tend to be happier in sunshine, and when people are in a better mood, they tend to spend more. A study conducted by the University of Alberta found strong empirical evidence that customers who shopped in an area with more natural light were more likely to make a purchase and spent more per visit – in some cases, as much as 56% more. Take advantage of sunny days and consider splurging on one-time upgrades such as skylights or additional windows.

            6. Chill Out
            According to a study conducted by Virginia and Houston universities, people spend less when they are hot. Whether we realize it or not, when we’re warmer (due to stress or weather), we are perceptibly less likely to make complex decisions (such as decide if something is a good deal or not) than we are when we’re cooler and generally more comfortable. So, when the hotter months roll around, don’t be a miser and try to skimp on the AC. Your higher utility bill may very well be offset by increased spending by your cool customers.

            You can’t expect to convert all of your patrons into “high rollers”. Consider these tips as ways to turn somebody who typically purchases three items for $20 into someone who will regularly purchase four or five items for $25 or $30. It may not seem like much at the time, but it all adds up and more importantly, adds to your bottom line.

            Here is one business we’ve worked with to go mobile. Watch this video about Denim Industries:

            Interested in getting your own retail mobile app? Click here for a free demo.

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            How Can a Mobile App Help My Business?

            In my opinion, the top three things on every business owner’s mind are;

            1. how to increase sales
            2. how to improve efficiency, and
            3. how to build a loyal customer base

            Entrepreneurs are a special breed. They work hours that others baulk at, invest all of their resources into their vision, their dream, and are always looking for ways to improve.

            I Did A Little Digging

            Over the last two decades, I’ve owned several small clothing boutiques and had been looking to do all of the above. I did a lot of research into how I could increase sales and build a loyal client base. What I discovered was that businesses with a loyalty program generally outperformed businesses without one by 20%.  That was the nugget I’d been digging for – Loyalty!

            I knew I wanted to implement a loyalty program, but couldn’t find the right fit, and if I couldn’t find the right fit, I probably wasn’t alone. Fast forward 2 years and today, our company, Mass Mobile Apps, produces custom mobile apps to help business owners address the three issues mentioned at the beginning of this article.

            How can a Mobile App help your business?

            Let’s break it down…

            1.Increase Sales

            A Mobile App can include a variety of different types of loyalty programs. For example, all apps created in the Mass Mobile Apps platform can include 8 different types of rewards programs.  Of the 8, the 3 most popular are:

            • the Transactional: the more you spend, the more you earn,
            • the Scratch and Win:  which adds gamification to the app. Users love interacting with the apps this way, and
            • the Referral Rewards: which enables customers to earn rewards for referring new customers to your business.

            Each one of these programs brings value to the business owner and incentivizes users to come back more often and spend more when they do.

            2. Improve efficiency  

            Features like Integrated Shopping Carts, Integrated Food Ordering and Employee Scheduling give an employer the ability to house these key functions inside the app.  

            For example, a restaurant with a food ordering system built into their app will see a dramatic increase in online and in-app purchasing. A retail business with an integrated e-commerce system will increase efficiency and also boost sales.  

            All types of businesses will improve employee engagement with built-in scheduling software that allows employees to be notified of their schedules in real time, and to also always have access to it on their smartphones – no longer can they, “I forgot I was scheduled today”, or “no one told me I was working today.”

            3. Loyalty

            Lastly, building a loyal customer base, is one of the most important things that a business owner must focus on. Customers are the lifeblood of EVERY business. Successful business owners know this and make it a priority to build loyalty and create brand ambassadors.

            There is no better way for a business to communicate and engage their customers than with a mobile app. The app gives your customers the ability to interact with your business on their schedule.  

            Push notifications have open rates in excess of 90%. Compare that to emails with open rates of 25-30% and you can see how the Mobile App will become the best way for you to connect with your customers and to reward them for referring new business. They may even help take you viral.

            A Multi-Purpose Tool That is Both Accessible and Affordable

            A Mobile App can be a lot of different things. It can be a way to access information, to play games, to do your banking, to monitor your home, to communicate and now, to interact with your local businesses.  Business owners with the insight to adopt this marketing channel early, will have an easier time understanding where their customers are, and how to effectively engage with them.

            The move to mobile is not new, but the ability for small and medium-sized businesses to adopt a marketing channel like this is. DIY Mobile App platforms can now offer an SME all of the features that a fortune 500 company has in their mobile strategy, at a fraction of the price.

            Here is how we’ve helped one retailer go mobile. Watch this video about Denim Industries:

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            The Cost of Mobile Apps for Small Businesses

            Small businesses owners looking for a mobile app platform may be scared off implementing one by the perceived large capital costs involved.

            I have some valuable insight on the topic from two perspectives, 1) I was a small business owner looking for a mobile app solution for my retail stores a few years ago, 2) Not finding a solution, I created my own platform that caters to small business owners.

            My background is retail, I have owned and operated retail boutiques for the better part of 25 years, so I understand clearly the predicament small business owners face when looking to adopt a mobile app solution.

            Let me start off by saying that for business owners today no mater how big or how small, it is imperative that they implement a mobile strategy.  Aside from the many intrinsic benefits that mobile apps provide, like push notifications, food ordering systems, integration of all digital assets, and loyalty programs, they also provide ancillary benefits, like helping rank your business higher on google searches.

            The goal of every business owners marketing efforts is to get their message, (whether it is a sales promotion, new arrivals, special event, or general updates) seen by their own customers, and to know that their messages are being seen.  Look at the available marketing mediums that are available to businesses today:

            • Radio
            • TV
            • Print
            • Flyers
            • Paid Web
            • Email
            • Organic/Word of Mouth

            The mobile app will over time become the best and most effective way to communicate with your customers, boost engagement and drive sales!  Technology today enables a business owner to design build and publish a mobile app, for less then it would cost them to build a website. The Mobile App will be for businesses today and moving forward, what the website was for businesses in the past.

            The other unique perspective I have is that of the founder of a tech start up catering to the small business market.  We have built a platform from the perspective of a user and that perspective gives us the ability to understand the needs of our clients and how they will use our platform daily.

            With the introduction of the IPhone, and the dominance of smart phones today as the primary method of accessing the internet for a majority of the population – it is imperative for businesses to adopt a mobile first marketing strategy moving forward.  Cost should no longer be an obstacle for small businesses in finding a mobile app platform.

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            Apple’s Update to Guideline 4.2.6 and what it means going forward.

            Being a Mobile App Developer in 2018 and Beyond.

            As you are likely now aware, Apple has amended its 4.2.6 guideline so that Mobile App Generating systems are able to publish apps and get them approved.  We at Mass Mobile Apps have had detailed conversations with our Apple Rep, and have a clear understanding of what its going to take to get an App approved.

            • Every App will need to have its own Developer Account – While this may be a little inconvenient – it is far better than not being able to publish apps at all.  Please check out our Complete Guide to Setting up an Apple Developer Account 
            • Apple is still looking at diversity in design, and a good user experience – So being able to make beautiful apps with great functionality is just as important today, as it was when Apple first released their 4.2.6 guidelines.  We have taken great strides in providing our re-seller partners the most flexibility in design and app creation.
            • Core Functionality – Apple wants to make sure that apps have a good user experience, and that an app is more than just a bunch of website tabs. If you are building an app that has little to no functionality, you will have a hard time getting your apps approved.

            Apple has always wanted to ensure that the user experience with its customers are second to none.  With the updated App Store, and now the continued ability for App Building services to be able to serve Small Business Owners, Apple is ensuring that it stays competitive in the rapidly evolving Mobile Landscape.

            The team at Mass Mobile Apps, continues to look at providing a platform that is productive for both Re-Sellers and Merchants alike.  We are positioning our platform to be an industry leader and the Best Mobile Solution for providers and end users alike.

            To find out more about Mass Mobile Apps please contact us at info@massmobileapps.com.