SMS receipts, customer feedback, trust, security and personalized loyalty
When a customer uses a credit card at the Smart Store for the first time, they are asked to enter their phone number before the door unlocks. This only happens the first time a new card is used. After that, the phone number is saved securely for future visits. Multiple cards may be associated to the same phone number.
Associating a phone number to the card has several benefits:
1. Be Notified About a Transaction
After the door is closed, the customer receives a text message (SMS) notifying them that a transaction has occurred. The message also informs the customer that they will receive a receipt once the system finishes processing the order within a few hours. This ensures the customer knows their purchase is being processed and what to expect next.
2. See the Itemized Value of the Purchase
Before entering the store, a temporary pre-authorization hold is placed on the customer’s card. After the system processes the order within a few hours of the transaction occurring, the customer receives a text message with a link to an itemized receipt. The receipt shows the final price of each item actually taken from the store, and that temporary hold amount has been adjusted. This helps build trust, especially for new customers trying out Smart Store technology.
3. Receive Customer Feedback
The text message the customer receives also provides a way to contact the operator if they have questions, concerns, or feedback. This makes it easy for the customer to get help or share their thoughts.
4. Improved Trust and Security
Associating a phone number to the credit card makes shopping safer for customers and operators. For operators, the phone number can help reduce fraud and prevent theft. For customers, being notified of key transactional events helps build trust using the system.
5. Personalized Loyalty Experience
When cards are linked to a phone number, the system easily recognizes returning customers which opens the opportunity to personalized deals or rewards for their loyalty.
Overall, having the customer's phone number not only makes shopping easier and safer but also helps customers enjoy the benefits of using Smart Store technology.