I’ve found myself so wrapped up in the season’s festivities with family gatherings, friends and gifts. That I realised I actually spend a lot of money over this period, as do everyone else. There are many companies who have realised the potential of this time of year and have marketing strategies in place to capitalise it. Sometimes, you don’t have to try so hard to spread some festive cheer and capture your audience.
Christmas is a time for giving and sharing, which is the main reason people buy more. They want to impress their friends, show appreciation and spread joy to their families. It’s gifts, drinks, food, decorations and even renovations that take up our time over the festive season. The more we have to give the better we feel. Many businesses have the potential to fulfil this need so you must recognise your role and prepare your marketing strategy.
If you are retailer, this is your season.
- People are actively looking for gifts, so place a few large signs to invite buyers into your store. The most effective messages are the discount, specials or marked down items signs. Because many retailers increase their prices, shoppers are actively looking for those discounts.
- Send out promotional vouchers with special Christmas offers, this will entice buyers to visit your store. They are likely to buy the items on the voucher plus other items that they see in the store. This is especially effective for those last minute shoppers who are looking for Christmas gifts.
- Play funky music that will encourage joy in people when they pass by or are in your store. It does not have to be Christmas songs; something upbeat and lively will do the trick. Be careful to mind the type of clientele you want to attract and play music that they will like. If people enjoy the atmosphere in a store, they are more likely to stay in the store for longer. You know what that means, more sales per customer.
- Provide entertainment for the kids and their parents. A magician or cartoon characters are options as long as they are interesting and colourful. Bright colours attract the kids and adults alike. This will draw attention to your store.
- Before you manage to entice customers into your store, you need to look at your store layout. A confusing and cluttered store will chase visitors away. It needs to be neat with the products strategically placed to maximise sales per customer. You will have to consult with your marketing consultants to find the best layout.
Most of all let the festive season grab you because once you feel the spirit of Christmas; your customers will feel it too.