Retail Column by Heidemarie Kriz, Point of Sale Doctor and Retail Architect (KRIZH, POSitive Affairs)
Anyone strolling through Stuttgart cannot avoid Tritschler, a fundamental institution in the city’s specialist retail landscape. The company offers an almost unrivaled selection of tableware and lifestyle products across 3000 sq m on four floors in the middle of the market square. On the floor above the store and with a magnificent view over the entire marketplace, these products can be tested and used during the cooking courses at “Ilzhöfer’s Event Cooking School,” which started in 2018.
About its history
As early as the 17th century, a community of glassblowers from the Black Forest sold their products at the weekly markets of Stuttgart under the name Tritschler Compagnie. In 1723, glassblower Michael Tritschler opened his first store on Stuttgart’s Marktplatz, offering glassware, earthenware, porcelain, hardware, and cigars, among other things – this is where the main store is located today. “Der Tritschler,” as he is colloquially known in Stuttgart, is one of the largest and most influential companies in this industry in Germany today. Since 2005, the Tritschler Lifestyle Shop has provided a selection of trendy products a stone’s throw away from the parent company on Königstraße, as well as at another three branches near Stuttgart in the state of Baden-Württemberg, in addition to a well-stocked online store.
Individual customer care and service are a top priority
Even though Tritschler celebrates its 300th anniversary this year, rest and standstill are not on the agenda. Quality and compilation of the product range and individual consulting of the customers continue to be the top priorities. Individuality and reliability are further qualities by which the esteemed employees live. The focus is on appropriate training to guarantee the best possible customer encounter. Also, for commercial customers such as hotels, clinics, law firms, or canteens, Tritschler’s strength has been professional advice, fast and uncomplicated handling of customer requests, and the delivery of products for more than 50 years.
Stuttgart’s traditional stores are a counterpoint to the city’s loss of identity
Back in 2014, ten owner-managed specialty stores in Stuttgart from a wide range of sectors joined forces to launch joint activities and counteract the uniformity of the city centers. This initiative’s goal was and is to preserve specialty retail at the best inner-city locations.
My tip: The example of this traditional company shows that companies can be successful if they remain true to their values, present their customers with an appropriate product selection, and look after them accordingly. Great, constantly changing product presentations make everybody’s heart beat faster. This is an impressive way to boost sales by appealing to customers’ sensory perceptions. An elaborate product presentation requires much work, but it is worth it and strengthens customer loyalty! An appealing social media presence is an excellent way to reach future generations. Values connect people, but also companies; recognizing this and supporting the respective location through cooperation shows foresight and will also work at all other sites.
Shop contact
Tritschler
Marktplatz 7
70173 Stuttgart
Germany
About Heidemarie Kriz
In this monthly retail column, retail architect Heidemarie Kriz shares with us her Retail Shop Tip and lets us know her thoughts and expertise regarding her experiences visiting some of the latest and most innovative shops. Heidemarie Kriz has been an architect and shop designer for more than 25 years. For decades, she has held senior positions with major brands across Europe, but she has also worked as a freelance concept designer, an architect, and a consultant specialising in shops, furniture design, customer and purchasing behavior, and visual merchandising. Kriz and her team of experts specialise in retail concepts, analysis, and holistic advice in the retail sector. In addition, she also writes retail-specific topics in the editorial team of ACROSS Magazine.
Contact
Mail: krizh@krizh.com
http://www.pointofsale.doctor
http://www.krizh.com
http://www.positiveaffairs.com
