bricksandmortar

Bricksandmortar is a term used to describe businesses that operate from a physical storefront or location where customers can interact with products and staff in person. It contrasts with online-only commerce, where sales occur through websites or apps. The phrase emphasizes the tangible, location-based aspect of retail and service delivery.

Historically, bricks-and-mortar has been the dominant model for most retail and many services. The rise of e-commerce in the late 1990s and 2000s challenged physical stores by offering convenience and wider selection. In recent years, many brick-and-mortar operators have pursued omnichannel strategies that integrate online and offline channels.

Key characteristics include a fixed location, the ability to display products in person, in-store staff to advise customers, and immediate ownership of goods. Operating a bricks-and-mortar business involves costs such as rent, utilities, security, and inventory management, as well as considerations of foot traffic and location.

Advantages include tangible product trials, immediate possession, local brand visibility, and easier returns. Challenges include higher fixed overhead than online-only models, sensitivity to local demographics, and competition from e-commerce that can offer broader selections and lower prices.

Trends in recent years show growth in experiential retail, the use of data-driven personalization, and in-store pickup or returns as part of omnichannel strategies. While store formats vary by sector, bricks-and-mortar remain a core component of the retail ecosystem, evolving to complement digital channels rather than simply compete with them.