As many of our retailers are considering integrating online sales into their websites, here we share some insights from David Bamford, Managing Director of Symphony Music & Technology Centre

Former musician, David Bamford and Michelle Mosley-Bamford, opened Symphony Music in Ashton-in Makerfield 11 years ago. It is now a thriving business based in Wigan. They have offered Take it away interest-free finance for years and recently integrated the loan software into their website.

The shop prides itself on it’s face to face customer advice and service but recognised that customers also need to buy online.

When you enter their shop you find three floors of instruments, including over 400 guitars. David believes that the experience of being in-store, holding and trying out an instrument to find the right one is really important. “It’s a far better way of making sure you’re getting something appropriate”.

Introduction of eCommerce software

They have recently invested in integrating the Omni Capital Retailer software with their website. He has found that it’s made a significant difference to their sales. He says, “We use Omni for all our finance, even for non-eligible customers; I like their system and their rates are good”. They now sell both new and second-hand musical instruments in store and online.

Symphony Music won a Take it away Retailer of the Year Award shortly after they had opened. The award meant national exposure for the business, and according to David “it put us on the map”.

Symphony Music has continued to win awards, in 2016 they won ‘Best Small Music Retailer’.

Customers are remembered and valued, returning customers represent the majority of sales. David advises customers to “treat the purchase as if they’re making an investment. It’s about investing in the pursuit of music.”

“Take it away was very influential, it helped get us on the map, especially in the first few years. We started around the same time; we’ve almost grown up together and certainly in the last year or two it’s become a big part of the business"

For more information about Symphony Music, please visit their website.