Hibbett enhances in-store experience with proactive reputation management

Tools used

Local Reviews
Local Listings
Email Testimonials
Managed Engagements

The challenge

Enhancing in-store experiences through reputation management

Hibbett, a leading lifestyle sneaker and fashion retailer, had built a strong online presence through high-ranking search strategies like Google Posts and hyperlocal landing pages. However, a critical challenge remained—gathering and responding to in-store customer feedback.

Without a system in place to capture post-purchase insights, the retailer faced gaps in understanding customer sentiment, limiting their ability to optimize local experiences and maintain brand trust. Hibbett needed a proactive approach to:

Engage in-store shoppers and collect real-time feedback.
Improve local search rankings through authentic customer reviews.
Strengthen their online reputation and boost customer trust.

With reputation playing a vital role in brand perception, Hibbett sought a seamless solution to improve their feedback strategy and elevate the customer experience.

Working with Rio SEO has been a game-changer for our in-store reputation management. Their expertise and innovative tools allowed us to shift from a reactive to a proactive approach, enabling us to engage our customers right after their in-store experiences. Thanks to this partnership, we’ve seen a significant increase in customer reviews, which has ultimately boosted both our credibility and sales.
Dezirae McGee, Senior Manager of Digital Content & Design
Hibbett

The solution

A proactive reputation management strategy with Rio SEO

By partnering with Rio SEO, Hibbett implemented a post-purchase review solicitation system that encouraged customers to share feedback soon after their in-store visit. This strategic approach included:

Automated email feedback requests sent to loyalty program members within 24-48 hours.
Seamless integration with Hibbett Rewards, leveraging an engaged customer base.
Enhanced review visibility, positioning Hibbett as a trusted retailer in local search results.

This proactive engagement not only increased review volume but also ensured more timely, relevant, and actionable feedback.

The result

Stronger brand authority and customer engagement

Since implementing Rio SEO’s Local Reviews solution, Hibbett achieved:

500% increase in review volume by engaging loyalty members.
Sustained an impressive 4.4 – 4.5-star rating across 1,300+ store locations.
18% year-over-year increase in local store page views and search impressions.

By taking control of their reputation management strategy, Hibbett has enhanced brand trust, improved customer interactions, and strengthened its position in the competitive retail landscape.

Transform your brand’s reputation strategy

Your customers’ voices shape your brand’s success. Discover how Rio SEO can help your multi-location business enhance reputation management, boost customer engagement, and drive long-term growth.

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