Retailers are in the throes of the busiest shopping season of the year. It’s time to start thinking about strategies for 2018 to ensure you have a retail sales year you’re not ashamed of. Five steps are outlined here to help you plow through the coming year with confidence and in the knowledge that your bottom line is all it can be.
Step 1 – Get yourself out there.
Many retailers are resistant to upping their advertising budgets. That’s understandable, when other priorities are perceived to have more weight. But advertising puts your store in the public eye, exposing it to potential customers.
That’s a lot of market share, waiting to discover you.
Traditional media isn’t your only option. Facebook and Twitter both have robust business advertising options to support your omnichannel advertising efforts.
Step 2 – Celebrate yourself.
Everyone loves a celebration, including your shoppers. Why not create your own special day? You may even want to call it (your store’s name here) Special Day!
Make it a super special day for your customers with in-store surprises, a band, balloons and promotions aplenty. Your customer base is a community, so don’t forget to offer rewards for loyalty as part of your celebration.
Step 3 – Get social.
Social media is one of your most effective strategies when you’re planning to a have retail sales year you’re not ashamed of. It’s simple, mostly free and it’s where you and your most loyal customers connect.
Be consistent. Don’t let your platforms languish untouched and then suddenly post a sale. Your audience needs to see fresh content (especially visual content) on a consistent basis. If necessary, delegate to an employee, or create a social media manager role.
Step 4 – The great outdoors.
People are curious. When they see something going on outside your store, they’re going to want to check it out. Position merchandising on the sidewalk. This gives you a chance to meet new, potential customers and chat with your loyalists, at the same time.
Spring and summer are, of course, the best time for this. Make your outdoor event seasonal, fun and interesting for passersby and regulars alike.
Step 5 – Get community-minded.
Sometimes, it’s all about connecting with your immediate community. Most people like to help, so creating an event in partnership with a local charity, NGO, or service group is a great way to cement your profile in the community as a business who cares.
Start a campaign. Offer matching funds for donations, or ask shoppers to bring in a donation of clothing, baby formula, or warm coats – whatever’s required. You’re attracting both old and new customers in common cause and building relationships. That means a higher profile and more business.
Clip Strip Corp.
At Clip Strip Corp., we’ve been leaders in innovative retail POP display products since 1980.
If you’re ready to have a retail sales year you’re not ashamed of, these 5 steps are a good start. Contact us for the best in retail POP display supports for your banner year!