The time between Thanksgiving and the holidays is the ideal window to push sales before the official start of shopping season. Here are four ideas to help boost your small business this November.
Jump on the Black Friday bandwagon.
We’ve had our Thanksgiving already but shoppers in the United States celebrate this holiday the last week of November, and Black Friday sales have made their way across the border in recent years. Give thanks for the many U.S. shoppers heading to Canada to take advantage of the exchange rate by offering a Black Friday discount in your store and online.
Give back to your community.
Community support is a two-way street, and giving back is a great way to strengthen ties and get more involved with your customers. Look for a local charity or initiative that you can help with goods or services, or try offering a discount to customers who bring in a donation, such as pre-loved clothing or non-perishable foods. Team up with an organization that needs what your business has to give (such as a food bank if you own a cafe) and work with them to promote their efforts and offer support.
Arrange after-hours events.
Consider putting on an after-hours event to draw in evening shoppers who are trying to get their shopping done after a hard day at the office. Extend your hours one night a week or put on a special shopping event with a local DJ, seasonal drinks, and lots of good deals.
Offer retail therapy.
Relaxed customers are more likely to stay and make bigger purchases in a calm environment.
Offer respite from the hectic holidays with festive treats for regulars — try a free chair massage, a free bottle of nail polish or a cup of coffee — when they spend a certain amount. Advertise the offer in your newsletter or on social media to attract your loyal customers.