Brick and Mortar Business: Definition & Key Characteristics

A brick and mortar business is the term used for companies that have a physical office, building or store. The physical location provides live, face-to-face, customer service. Any company that has a physical address that is used for customer interaction is considered to be a brick and mortar business. This type of business is also called "street side business."

This term is used to differentiate businesses that have a physical presence, as opposed to those that are solely based virtually on the internet. Online only stores that do not have live offices, stores, or buildings would not be described using this term, but would be classified as a part of an eCommerce market.

A business may have both a physical location and an interactive website where customers can purchase goods and services. In this case, the company may fall under both this category and under eCommerce.