Published on: 14 August 2018
Last Updated on: 08 August 2019
If the next goal of your retail construction business is to build a shopping center at a strategic location, the first key step is to find the right site where it’s economically, geographically and environmentally viable to build a shopping mall.
The planning and construction of a shopping center are way different from that of local markets or of store clusters. The selection of land itself is a lengthy process, from shortlisting possible locations to getting government approvals to begin construction. The location, the scale of the project and the size of the shopping mall are key determinants in the site selection process.
Moreover, when a developer chooses a site for a shopping mall, it must be a place that will receive high footfall, will have ample parking space, should be convenient to visit and should house the brands that can pull traffic. A shopping center is, therefore, a full package that doesn’t just offer products that people would like to purchase, but also an ambiance that will make the experience comfortable, hassle-free and weatherproof for visitors. If you’re an investor, developer or builder scouting locations to build a new shopping center, here are a few key factors that should guide your decision.
Base your decision on stringent selection criteria :
Building a new shopping center is a big investment and should get you maximum ROI in record time. However, reality often differs widely from projections made during the planning phase. Therefore, site selection for a shopping mall must be done after taking into account several key parameters such as accessibility, availability of local transport, road infrastructure around the location, traffic around the site, size and construction-readiness of the site, and scope of expansion.
Other key factors that should drive your site selection research are the topography of the area, the shape of the land, and survey-backed data regarding potential footfall and present and future competition.
Lastly, the catchment area should be studied in-depth to understand the demographics and spending habits of the population expected to be your future customers.
Be prepared to face the challenges in site selection :
Sometimes, finding a site for a new retail project takes only a few weeks, and at other times the process may stretch into months. The key challenges faced by builders and developers in finding an ideal location include land acquisition cost (land near the city center or in prime locations tends to be way more expensive than in other areas); availability of land for commercial projects near densely populated areas; getting the required environmental clearances and government approvals; and, lastly, the public infrastructure around the site.
A site that meets only some of these selection challenges may not be worth pursuing, as the success of a shopping center will depend on the footfall it attracts, which itself depends on several factors. So shopping plaza location should be finalized only if it will give its investors and retailers a handsome return on investment.
Use technology to find the best sites :
The most successful global retail chains rely on technology to help them find suitable locations for opening new stores worldwide. Using massive amounts of big data and cutting-edge mapping systems, companies are using technology to find profitable sites across the world. Expansion and investment decisions are increasingly being taken based on location- and demographics-based data provided by specialty software programs and applications.
If so far you’ve relied on physical research to scout locations for retail projects along with limited use of technology, it’s time to go all out into the fantastic realm of big data and digital mapping software to build your next retail success story.
Contact a digital map provider, such as promap.co.uk to get a detailed map of the town or district or street you’ve shortlisted as an ideal site for your next retail construction project. The various types of digital mapping services available with Promap offer invaluable and in-depth information that is employed by developers and architects for site identification, risk analysis, feasibility, planning application, and environmental and geological analysis of a location before proceeding to the planning and design phases.
Lastly, market research is a key aspect of retail construction as it helps developers derive accurate projections in terms of present and long-term viability of the project. Once the site is selected, a detailed demand/supply study must be carried out, taking into account the lifestyle and spending power of the catchment area. This will help you determine which retail businesses are more likely to drive traffic to the shopping center.
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Product packaging is a big business, and it is a big thing for your business too. The value of packaging produced in Australia goes into billions, which speaks of the importance of the industry. We tend to overlook that just like the product, the packaging in itself needs to be manufactured and assembled as well. If you think of it that way, your packaging is the first thing that attracts the customer. It is a given that as soon as he or she gets the package in hand, the first thought is to see how reliable it is. For this, you must be aware of the three basic categories of the packaging as per your product. You have primary packaging, the purpose of which is for a customer to take it home. Next up, secondary packaging, which is sort of packaging around your packaging. What it means is that it is used to group items together, such as trays and boxes etc. Lastly, we have tertiary packaging, which is used for warehousing and transportation, such as pallets and cartons. Among all these, it is necessary that you choose the right packaging for your product because your success depends on how the product is being presented. Here are some essential things to consider when designing product packaging.
Manufacturing:
To start off, the materials used in packaging play an important part. Choosing the right material depends on your product and the process through which it is created or being delivered. You must consider all your product variation plans in the long run, before finalizing the materials you will manufacture your packaging with. Your choice needs to be flexible enough to deal with the product variants, new products, promotions, and SKU changes etc. There have recently been many strong developments in the higher performing packaging material including Plastic Packaging Supplies that minimize the storage requirements and transportation costs. Not just this, but alongside the convenience, the appeal and the attractiveness has been maximized too. Moreover, among the top things, you must consider is the capability and the processes attached to your packaging from being manufactured to delivered too. Consider flexibility and stacking & transportation too, and we are sure you will find the material that sits true to your business and packaging needs.
Sustainable Business:
Environmental concern, sustainability and the associated terms are all the rage these days. Every business claims to manufacture and produce packaging or products that can easily be recovered and recycled. If you consider sustainability, it is good for the environment but not for your pocket. This is why, manufacturers must consider the right balance between the environmental impact of their packaging and the commercial demands. Consider that if you reduce packaging to meet the eco-friendly requirements, will your product be secure? On the flip side, if you invest more in packaging to secure the product, will it be sustainable for your business? Do weight in cost-effectiveness, sustainability, flexibility and other requirements to maintain your brand image. You can always opt for plastic packaging supplies in the end.
Supply Chain:
How your product is being stored and distributed is as important as the design and the manufacturing itself. This is where your supply chain is going to kick in. Firstly, consider the environment, because your packaging needs to withstand the crushing Australian temperature, dust, moisture and vibration etc. Secondly, consider the type of your item and what kind of packaging will keep it safe throughout the stocking and moving process. Once you have considered both, you will know what sort of material is feasible for your supply chain process.
Once you have finalized the practical and operational aspect of it all do not forget that the ‘shelf appeal’, which is the branding and marketing of your business product, matters too. Around 70% of the purchasing decisions are made in-store, and that clearly implies that your packaging often attracts the buyers. So think, think, think, brainstorm and continually innovate. You will have the best product packaging and an answer to all your cost problems that might arise in between. Just be sure that you don’t hurry and choose whatever suits your products the most.
Read Also:
Simple Packaging: Your Guide To Branded Design
5 Ways To Reduce The Packaging Cost In Your Business
Are you new to being a director of a company and are not sure how board meetings work?
Well, this is something that you will become acquainted with quite well as time goes on. But, before your first one, you may have a lot of questions. For example, what exactly is a board meeting and how do they work?
We have created a guide that is going to give you a rundown of what you can expect. This way, you can walk into the room with some confidence.
So, let’s get started.
What is a Board Meeting?
Let’s start off nice and simple. What is a board meeting?
Well, this is when the directors of a company of its board members all get together and discuss what is happening at that company.
In particular, a board meeting is often called to discuss the growth of that business and how it can move forward.
So, in a board meeting, it is likely that the directors and those present will discuss topics such as the company’s performance, as well as any concerns or issues that have to be resolved. Of course, the overarching aim is for the company to progress.
Note that a board meeting is supposed to be a formal meeting. It is going to involve people that have power at the company and that are capable of making decisions. Often, minutes are going to be made during the meeting so that they become a document afterward. Language is formal and so are the topics discussed.
How Often are Board Meetings?
When it comes to board meetings, every company is going to be different. Namely, some like to have them twice a year.
Alternatively, it can be more often than this. But, they are usually decided on in advance. You can learn more about who can call a board meeting when you click on the link.
This is going to be communicated ahead of time so that the meeting does not come as a surprise to anyone.
There is no official amount of notice that you should give before calling a board meeting. For example, this could be a few days or even a month in advance.
But, it is best to give everybody enough notice so they can prepare and make the most of the meeting. Generally, months in advance is too much and not standard. But, only a few hours or a day before is also unrealistic. You will need to think for yourself what a reasonable time is for giving notice of a board meeting.
Is a Board Meeting Important?
The simple answer to this question is yes, a board meeting is considered an important business date in the diary. Indeed, it is essential to review how the company is doing and how it can grow in the future.
Think about it as an opportunity to review objectives and goals and to see if progress is being made. Plus, it is the chance to create more.
Therefore, board meetings are not something that should be treated lightly. If you are invited to one, it is expected that you attend. You may have to do some work to prepare for one too so that you are up to date with what is going on.
Do Board Meetings Have to be Face-to-Face
It used to be the case that board meetings would always be face-to-face. This was how they were done. But, over the years, technology has changed the way business is conducted.
Indeed, it has changed some board meetings. So, it is possible to have virtual meetings where you are on a video call or voice call.
But, some companies still prefer to meet face-to-face for board meetings. This is a good way to understand nonverbal communication and body language. Plus, it avoids the problem of technology going wrong and being unable to see or hear people on the other end.
Ultimately, it will depend on what everyone is comfortable with. Virtual meetings will still have a place in the future. For example, if there are board members that cannot attend for some reason, they are still going to be able to join this way. All they will need is a computer or a phone to join in the meeting.
As long as all board members are happy with the way the meeting is going to take place, there are no rules on whether it has to be face-to-face or held virtually.
Additionals
Best Business Meeting Agenda ExamplesFive Ways an Employee Recognition Can Help Employees Perform Better
If there is one thing that many people want to know, it is always along the lines of “how long does AliExpress take to ship?”
Typically, upon ordering from AliExpress, you can expect to receive your items within a span of two to three weeks. However, there are instances where the delivery might extend beyond a month. This variability in shipping times underscores the significance of understanding what to anticipate.
In this article, I will try to cover crucial information regarding shipping times on AliExpress comprehensively. So keep reading this blog till the end o learn more about the same…
What Is AliExpress?
AliExpress is an online retail platform that allows individuals and businesses to buy and sell a wide variety of products. It is owned by Alibaba Group and is known for offering a vast range of items, including electronics, clothing, accessories, home goods, and more. The platform connects buyers and sellers from around the world, often offering products at competitive prices.
How Is AliExpress Different From Other E-commerce Platforms?
It's important to note that while AliExpress offers many benefits, like any platform, it also has its own set of challenges and considerations that buyers should be aware of, such as varying product quality and shipping times.
AliExpress differs from other platforms in a few key ways:
1. Global Sellers
AliExpress connects buyers with sellers from various countries, offering a diverse range of products from around the world.
2. Wide Product Range
The platform offers an extensive selection of items, from electronics and fashion to home goods and more, making it a one-stop shop for many different needs.
3. Competitive Prices
AliExpress is known for its competitive prices, often allowing buyers to find products at lower costs compared to traditional retail.
4. Buyer Protection
AliExpress typically provides buyer protection, which can include refunds and returns in case of issues with the order.
5. Language Options
AliExpress offers its website and app in multiple languages, making it accessible to a global audience.
6. Dropshipping
Many sellers on AliExpress offer drop shipping services, allowing entrepreneurs to start their own businesses without needing to hold inventory.
7. Reviews And Ratings
Buyers can often find reviews and ratings for products and sellers, helping them make informed purchasing decisions.
8. Direct Communication
Buyers can often communicate directly with sellers, allowing for inquiries and clarifications before making a purchase.
How Long Does AliExpress Take To Ship?
Believe it or not, this is one of the most asked questions that people often ask, other than whether AliExpress is a scam or a legit platform.
Regarding AliExpress shipping, the majority of sellers are situated in China. Nevertheless, AliExpress offers non-Chinese sellers the option to register on the platform. This implies that you might come across vendors who can ship products from warehouses or stores within your own country.
If you wish to receive AliExpress products from a specific location, you can do so by choosing the desired country in the "Ship from" category.
Track Your Package On AliExpress
Keep in mind that shipping and tracking processes may vary depending on the seller, shipping method, and location. It's a good idea to stay patient and allow some time for the tracking information to update as the package makes its way to you.
Keep reading this part of the blog to learn more about how to track a package on AliExpress:
How Can You Track Your Order On AliExpress?
If you encounter any issues or have concerns, you can also communicate with the seller through the AliExpress messaging system.
To track your order on AliExpress, follow these steps:
1. Login
Log in to your AliExpress account. You'll need to create an account if you don't have one.
2. Go To "My Orders”
Once logged in, go to the "My Orders" section. You can usually find this in the dropdown menu under your account name or in the main navigation.
3. Find Your Order
Locate the specific order you want to track from the list of your recent orders.
4. Tracking Information
Click on the order to view more details. You should see tracking information provided by the seller, including the tracking number and shipping carrier.
5. Track Order
Copy the tracking number and go to the shipping carrier's website (such as FedEx, UPS, DHL, etc.) to handle your package. The carrier's website should have a "Track" or "Track Order" option. Paste the tracking number there and follow the prompts to get real-time updates on the status of your package.
6. AliExpress Tracking
You can also often track your order directly on AliExpress. Click on the tracking number within your order details, and it may provide a link to the carrier's tracking page or display the tracking information directly on the AliExpress website.
How To Track Package Location On AliExpress?
Here's how to track your item on AliExpress:
Visit the AliExpress website and log in to your account.
Navigate to the ‘My Orders’ section and select the relevant order for the item you wish to track.
Locate the ‘Tracking Number’ section on the following page. Copy this number, as you'll require it for the next step.
With the tracking number in hand, proceed to the shipping company's website handling your package (this information is available in the ‘Tracking Number’ section on AliExpress).
Once on the shipping company's website, input your tracking number in the designated field and press ‘enter’ or ‘submit.’ This action will display the latest details regarding your package's whereabouts.
How To Track Package On AliExpress Without A Tracking Number?
If your AliExpress tracking number is lost, you can still monitor your package using several methods. Begin by reviewing the confirmation email received after placing your order; it might contain the tracking number. Alternatively, log in to your AliExpress account and visit the order status page.
Should the tracking details remain elusive, reach out to customer service. They could provide a tracking number or insights into your package's whereabouts. Remember, delivery times can differ, meaning your package might still arrive within the anticipated timeframe, even without a tracking number.
Why Is Package Not Moving?
There are a few reasons why your AliExpress standard shipping package tracking information might not be updated:
After placing your order, please allow up to 24 hours for the tracking information to become available.
Delays in the movement of AliExpress standard shipping packages can occasionally occur due to adverse weather conditions or high package volumes being handled by the shipping company.
Should you experience a delay or loss of tracking information, feel free to reach out to AliExpress customer service for assistance.
Keep in mind that AliExpress standard shipping is designed to deliver within approximately 45 days. Hence it's normal for tracking updates to be limited during the initial weeks following your order placement.
What Does In-Transit Mean In AliExpress?
When you place an order with a store, the shipping process typically involves several intermediary transportation companies before the package reaches your residence. The journey of your package varies depending on its size and origin, potentially involving multiple warehouse stops before it's loaded onto a truck bound for your local area.
Upon arrival in your town, the package undergoes sorting and is loaded onto another truck designated for delivery to your specified address. This comprehensive sequence of actions can span several days or even weeks, causing the package status to remain as "in transit" for an extended duration. Rest assured, though, that the package will eventually reach your doorstep!
What Does Pending Mean In AliExpress?
If you're curious about the "pending" status on your AliExpress standard shipping package tracking, it merely indicates that your package is currently in transit and hasn't been delivered yet. There is no need to be concerned; this status signifies your package is en route! To stay updated on your delivery's progress, you can easily track it online or reach out to AliExpress customer service for further assistance.
There are a few reasons why AliExpress might still be pending. Some of them are:
The tracking information might not have been updated as of now. It usually takes a few days for the tracking details to be refreshed, so we kindly ask for your patience.
It's possible that the package is currently awaiting processing by customs. While this can occasionally delay delivery, it's typically beyond the seller's control.
Alternatively, the package could be in the process of being transported to its ultimate destination.
Where Does AliExpress Ship From?
Regarding AliExpress shipping, the majority of sellers are situated in China. Nevertheless, AliExpress offers non-Chinese sellers the option to register on the platform. This implies that you might come across vendors who can ship products from warehouses or stores within your own country. If you wish to receive AliExpress products from a specific location, you can do so by choosing the desired country in the "Ship from" category.
AliExpress Standard Shipping: Is It Worth The Wait?
The majority of orders on AliExpress are sent using AliExpress Standard Shipping, which typically takes about 15 to 45 days for delivery. Upon shipment, you'll receive a tracking number to monitor the progress of your order.
Please note that delivery times may differ based on your country, so be sure to verify the estimated delivery time for your particular area. If your order does not reach you within the expected timeframe, it's advisable to reach out to the seller for updates on your shipment's status.
If you want to experience the best shipping, I would strongly recommend that you opt for AliExpress Standard Shipping. Here are a few reasons why:
1. It Offers The Best Pricing
The most competitive product prices often lie beyond Amazon's reach; frequently, they reside within AliExpress. Given that these products originate in China, and the majority of AliExpress suppliers operate from China, it's logical that they extend the finest prices on their nation's preeminent e-commerce platform. This permits entrepreneurs to present cost-effective prices to their customers who avidly seek remarkable bargains.
Due to diminished shipping expenses, customers are more willing to await their ordered products patiently. The key lies in establishing pragmatic expectations for them. You have the option to integrate AliExpress shipping durations into your product descriptions or advertisements, effectively orchestrating accurate anticipations for your valued customers.
2. You Can Track The Package
Regular shipments do not provide package tracking beyond mainland China. However, AliExpress Standard Shipping provides a global tracking number, offering insights into the shipment's delivery process and timing. Enhance your post-purchase customer satisfaction by offering an estimated delivery timeframe derived from the package's current status.
3. Profits Are Good
AliExpress Standard Shipping proves advantageous for your business. Unlike Premium Shipping, it doesn't erode your profit margins, and there's no need to raise your product's price to accommodate shipping expenses. Opting for non-standard shipping can result in elevated costs that compel you to set prices above the retail value, potentially reducing sales.
AliExpress Premium Shipping
AliExpress offers a premium shipping choice known as AliExpress Premium Shipping, accessible for select products on the platform. This option ensures quicker and more dependable delivery, albeit at a higher cost than AliExpress Standard Shipping.
Premium Shipping is accessible for shipments to specific countries. Simply review the shipping details on the product page to confirm if the item you're considering qualifies for premium shipping.
Can You Choose The Shipping Service On AliExpress?
If you're new to AliExpress, you might be uncertain about selecting your preferred shipping method. Fortunately, the website simplifies this process. Here are the steps that you need t take for that:
Begin by picking an item for purchase and adding it to your cart.
As you proceed through checkout, you'll reach the shipping details section.
Depending on the available services, you'll see one or two options.
Simply click the circle next to your choice to select it.
You'll find the estimated delivery time and associated shipping fee if applicable.
Once you've made your selection, click "Okay" to confirm.
After completing the purchase, you can review your order details in your account's "Orders" section.
Why Is Your AliExpress Delivery Not On Time?
Now that you know how long AliExpress takes to ship your order, you must be curious about why there might be a delay or the reason behind the time span. Some people are used to eBay, Amazon, and Etsy. And for them, specifically, AliExpress feels like ages.
Well, here are some of the factors that play a big role in the delay:
1. Delay From The Seller’s End
AliExpress often experiences extended shipping times due to seller-related delays, a key distinction from Amazon's model with its multiple warehouses. Unlike Amazon, where sellers can readily stock goods in warehouses, AliExpress relies on sellers to dispatch items to their facility before orders can be shipped.
Consequently, any delay on the seller's end leads to a corresponding delay in shipping. Numerous factors contribute to sellers not expediting shipments as intended. For instance, the size of the item or delivery can impact the timeline.
In cases where the seller offers a sizable product, they might need to await an available carrier equipped to handle its dimensions, potentially necessitating placement on a carrier's waiting list.
Only once the appropriate carrier becomes accessible can the product be sent to AliExpress. Moreover, the volume of deliveries plays a role. Sellers may have multiple products destined for AliExpress, adding to the complexity of coordination.
2. Efficiency Of The Portal Service
AliExpress ships to virtually every corner of the globe, extending its services to countries with less efficient postal systems. If you reside in a highly remote region where postal services already operate at a leisurely pace, anticipate that your AliExpress package might experience an additional delay in arrival.
This extended duration can be attributed to the sluggish or less efficient nature of the local postal service, which must allocate time and space to accommodate the package. Furthermore, they may need to cover a certain distance to rendezvous with the carrier responsible for forwarding the package.
Given the complexities of coordinating schedules between carriers, reaching a mutual agreement on a meeting date could introduce a minor postponement in the exchange process.
3. Number Of People Who Use AliExpress From A Country
The popularity of AliExpress in specific countries can influence the speed of shipping, either expediting or delaying it. In nations with a high volume of AliExpress customers, shipping times tend to be quicker due to the prevalence of AliExpress packages.
These countries have established solid connections and partnerships with local carriers, enabling them to devise solutions for challenges and enhance efficiency through repeated package shipments.
Consequently, residents of countries where AliExpress is frequently used often experience swifter package deliveries compared to those residing in less-utilized regions. In contrast, countries where AliExpress is less popular, may lack a close marketplace relationship, potentially leading to logistical issues that introduce delays and prolong shipping times.
Additionally, this scenario might result in a lack of regional partners for AliExpress, necessitating the hiring of carriers through time-consuming processes if all local carriers are occupied.
4. Type Of Shipping
The choice of shipping service you opt for can impact the delivery time of your AliExpress package.
For instance, AliExpress Standard Shipping often employs sea and ground transportation methods to deliver your package.
These methods prioritize cost-effectiveness, utilizing the most economical modes of travel available.
Sea transport, being the slowest shipping option, is constrained by the speed of boats, which must halt at ports for cargo loading and unloading.
Port stops can be time-consuming, as the unloaded cargo typically undergoes customs checks and inspection of the incoming cargo to ensure accuracy.
Moreover, during these port stops, the ship restocks essential resources like crew provisions, food, and freshwater.
Depending on the distance the ship must cover, it might make multiple stops at various ports, thereby elongating the overall delivery time.
On the other hand, while slower than air travel, ground travel offers relatively swifter progress than sea transport due to its ability to take a more direct route to the final destination.
5. Holidays
The holiday season significantly contributes to potential delays in your order's delivery. In fact, your package could experience an additional delay of up to a month or even more due to the holiday rush. The surge in e-commerce activity during holidays prompts shoppers to opt for online purchases over crowded brick-and-mortar stores, creating increased pressure on e-commerce businesses.
This heightened demand strains their workforce, particularly during holiday periods, when regular staff members often need to work overtime to manage the increased volume of orders. This strain is particularly evident during Christmas, as everyone desires their packages to arrive before a specific date, resulting in a rush to meet these deadlines.
AliExpress, in particular, experiences a substantial surge in the number of packages they handle daily, potentially overwhelming their operations if they're unable to recruit enough seasonal workers. In such cases, the burden falls on their existing employees to handle the heightened workload.
Sellers on the platform also feel the impact of this heightened demand. Increased demand for their products translates to a larger number of shipments to AliExpress. If overwhelmed with orders, sellers might experience delays in sending packages to AliExpress, extending the overall processing time.
Subsequently, AliExpress must dispatch these packages to carriers worldwide. If domestic carriers are already grappling with a significant load, the addition of international packages may exacerbate the issue, leading to further delays in delivering packages to their intended destinations.
In summary, the holiday season can lead to significant delays in the delivery of your AliExpress package beyond the usual timeframes.
Wrapping It Up!
In case you wanted to know how long does AliExpress takes to ship, I hope that this article has been of help to you. If there are any other queries related to this, please scroll down until you reach this article's end. Then leave your comments and suggestions in the box below. And I will be there to answer them all for you!
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