First impressions can be critical in business and Big O Tires is hoping to capitalize on that thanks to recent renovations at its Columbia, Mo. store at 2300 Business Loop 70 East. The store received a complete overhaul both inside and out. Decades old metal siding was replaced with stucco and decorative stones to project a more modern and friendly appearance.
“We want our stores to make our customers feel welcome,” says Rusty Coats, director of retail tire services. “It’s important that we provide them with a clean, comfortable shopping experience that encourages them to make repeat visits to our stores.”
The interior remodel included an addition to enlarge the store’s waiting room. The newly-expanded area offers comfy and stylish leather chairs where customers can relax while their cars are serviced. A countertop area with stools and smartphone charging ports also was added to ease customer wait times.
“The countertop allows a space for people to work on laptops or have a bite to eat while they are waiting,” Coats explains. “We also offer free Wi-Fi at all our stores to accommodate our customer’s needs.”
Other enhancements include new floors, fresh paint and a larger lobby area where three customer service kiosks have replaced the old service counter.
“The kiosks allow us to be more engaging with our customers,” Coats believes. “Each kiosk has a computer within it that is visible to customers and helps our associates communicate service recommendations.”
The Business Loop remodel is the latest in a series of planned renovations to Big O Tires stores owned and operated by MFA Petroleum Company. The Columbia, Mo. store at 3915 Peachtree Drive received a similar facelift to its storefront in spring 2015. Coats says the company is also planning to update a portion of its Big O Tires location in Camdenton, Mo. in 2016.
“These remodeling projects will help us create an attractive environment that draws additional customers in to our stores and should help to increase sales,” Coats adds.