With winter on the horizon, shopping centers must now turn their attention to managing the complications which come with snow and ice. To ensure customer safety, accessibility, and overall business success, this is one responsibility which cannot be overlooked. Ignoring the dangers of winter can quickly lead to hazardous conditions, unsatisfied customers, and considerable financial losses, all of which shopping centers cannot afford. That is why investing in professional snow removal services is a must for shopping centers, the benefits of which are detailed below.

The Financial Impact of Snow and Ice

Winter weather is a significant deterrent when it comes to customers and shopping centers. Not only does it discourage potential customers from visiting shopping centers, but it also results in lost sales because of the lower foot traffic. Couple that with inadequate snow removal, and the financial repercussions quickly add up.

Slip and fall accidents are the leading cause of liability claims and can deplete financial resources and tarnish a property’s reputation in the blink of an eye. According to the Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI), there were 654,000 unintentional slip-and-fall injuries reported in 2023 alone, representing almost a third of all emergency department (ED) visits for injury and trauma visits last year.

A startling statistic to say the least. And it will only get worse without the right snow contractor.

This is where professional snow removal services can help.

Putting Customer Safety First

Safety is essential for any business, especially for shopping centers where high foot traffic is a necessity for success. Aside from being a major obstacle, icy sidewalks and inadequately cleared parking lots can lead to serious accidents and injuries—not something shopping centers want to be associated with. Hiring professional snow contractors can help mitigate this risk, giving customers and property owners peace of mind.

Professional snow removal services teams are proficient at addressing all sorts of winter conditions, including:

• Identifying and managing slip and fall risks
• Monitoring weather conditions 24/7
• Utilizing the appropriate equipment and techniques to maintain safe and accessible paths, sidewalks, and entrances

From a customer’s standpoint, when customers feel safe, they are more likely to return. Having regular inspections, prompt responses to snowfalls, and maintaining clear pathways are all crucial for providing a safe and positive shopping experience for customers, which is why leading retailers prioritize customer safety above all else. And it starts with the right snow removal company.

Accessibility Equals Profitability

Shopping centers that are easily accessible tend to perform better during the winter months. The way to do that is to not only keep the main entrances clear but also the parking areas and all pathways leading up to the stores. Customers should be able to walk around without the fear of slipping and falling, meaning a comprehensive snow removal plan is needed to ensure all areas, including entrances, ramps, and sidewalks, are safe.

Consider a family of four visiting a shopping center for winter deals. If they must shuffle through unplowed parking lots and skate along slippery walkways to get where they want to go, they will likely leave. However, if the parking lots and walkways are clear and slip-free, they are more likely to stay for longer, resulting in increased sales and greater customer satisfaction.

A win-win for everyone involved.

Partnering with Reliable Contractors

Hiring a reliable snow removal contractor is a must-have for shopping centers. The benefits of a dedicated snow removal team not only include keeping you informed about weather conditions, schedules, and anticipated snow events, but professional contractors can also provide:

• Pre-season assessments
• Emergency responses
• Customized snow removal plans tailored to the specific needs of a shopping center

Look for partners who understand the unique challenges which come from winter and who have the appropriate equipment and resources for complete snow management. Effective coordination between property management and snow removal services is also a must, to ensure the safety and accessibility of a shopping center for all to enjoy.

The Snow Management Plan

As a shopping center owner or manager, establishing a reliable snow management plan should be a top priority. Here are the key areas to focus on:

Identify High-Risk Areas

Begin by thoroughly examining your shopping center layout. Identify high-traffic areas such as main entrances, sidewalks, and parking lots where snow and ice can pose a substantial threat to the health and safety of all. Prioritizing these areas for snow removal will enhance customer safety.

Set Up Regular Snow Removal

Develop a snow removal schedule, especially when expecting major snowstorms. Consistent maintenance during heavy snowfall ensures that the property remains clear, and ice does not accumulate.

Clear Communication

Establish clear communication channels with your snow removal contractor and staff. Everyone should be aware of the snow removal schedule and any adjustments needed due to changing weather conditions. An informed team can effectively update customers and manage traffic flow should it be required.

By focusing on these aspects, property owners can create a safer and more accessible shopping environment during the winter months.

Get Ready for Winter

With winter well on its way, the time for action is now. Don’t wait until your business operations take a hit. Take the necessary steps to prepare your shopping center for the season now.

By preparing in advance, you are safeguarding both your business and the well-being of your customers. Your investment now will result in happier customers, increased foot traffic, and ultimately, higher profits.

Plan accordingly to ensure a successful winter season.