Even for in-person purchases, most shoppers now check online first — searching for a product nearby, comparing store ratings or messaging to ask if something's in stock. If your store doesn't show up, or nobody replies to a WhatsApp enquiry, that customer often buys elsewhere without ever visiting.
For local retail, being easy to find on Google Maps, showing an active social presence and responding quickly to product questions all directly influence footfall. A customer who confirms stock or price over WhatsApp before visiting is far more likely to walk in and buy.
The goal is simple: make sure nearby customers can find your store, trust that it's active and well-stocked, and get a fast answer when they ask a question — so more searches turn into actual visits.