A new piece of furniture has slipped into Oxybul stores just in time for Christmas. Coralie Bondon, operations manager at N’Joy, trained the in-store teams as part of the rollout. Here she tells us more about it.
Coralie, what is this table on wheels in the middle of the store?
This table on wheels has been designed as a focal point; a hub for customers, whatever their age. On it are current games chosen by the staff.
Is it also a display unit?
Not at all! The idea is to create a spontaneous relationship between our staff and customers through play. The unit is the starting point for a pleasant interaction, building connections between people and sometimes helping to pass the time while customers wait (for a till, for example).
The idea is to create a spontaneous relationship between our staff and customers through play.
As the table can be moved, it reassures the parents, as the game comes to the children and not the other way around. The table can also be set up at the store entrance, setting the right tone: “Should we start off by playing together?”
How did you go about training the Oxybul store managers?
First, we played a game together to relax the atmosphere and change the dynamic. Then I asked them to choose the game they wanted to showcase. The challenge was getting them to take the lead in the game. It was important for them to connect with customers in a different way, through a shared experience and not a sales pitch—even if the best way to stimulate a customer’s interest is to have them play the game!
What do you think is the recipe for success with this table?
I recommend making a member of staff responsible for running the table every day, ideally the most playful!
