What Does The Term Mean To You?

I was speaking recently to one of my colleagues within the profession here recently in reference to an ongoing argument about retail versus destination businesses. I have said for at least three years that our profession is becoming more retail and we should begin to site our practices with this in mind. My thoughts are that  we are moving towards a High Street business model.

He disagrees and feels we are still a destination business and should sit our practices in accordance with that concept. I feel that at this moment we are both correct, the tipping point from destination to high street has not occurred just yet. However I feel that any practice that does locate on the high street and use some of the high street retail strategies in design and deployment will still do well.

I think that this type of location can and will shave a large sum of money of your marketing budget because of the effect of passing trade and awareness because of location. Two of my customers are undertaking this strategy at present, one of them who has undertaken the move is already seeing an increase in business. The second is yet to open the new practice so we will see what happens there.

But I digress, something became clear during our latest debate, my term of reference for high street retail and his where completely different. My thoughts are a sophisticated Practice which deploys retail displays and signage at the front of house with a comfortable modern waiting room utilizing the most modern digital display techniques and a state of the art backroom clinic area.

He thought I was talking about a relatively modern practice, with deployed retail concepts, selling cheap and cheerful instruments with a view to maximizing volume. It was only then that I understood his reluctance to consider the concept. When I explained my conceptual thinking behind the deployment and the end results I thought could be achieved, he warmed to the idea.

I thought about the conversation today again and it made me wonder what you the readers of this blog think. Firstly when you hear high street retail hearing health practice, what jumps to mind? Secondly what do you think about the same concept when it is framed in the terms of reference I use. Thirdly and most importantly, where do you stand on the debate? Do you think we are still a destination model or indeed are we ready to move to a high street retail model?

Lastly do you think there is another model altogether we should follow?

Regards

Geoff