Retail Tips to Capture Holiday Spirit—and Increase Sales

As the holidays are quickly approaching, millions of shoppers are out and about searching for that perfect gift for someone special.  Odds are…this will affect retailers greatly.  But traditional retailers are not the only ones who can experience increased sales during this time.  So, too, can convenience store operators—if they tap into the spirit of the season to create a pleasant shopping experience for their customers.

Here are a few tips to help get you and your customers in the holiday mood (inspired by some fun and traditional Christmas classics).  Remember, these are additional tactics to complement your current best practices for building customer loyalty with your customers.

Deck the Halls - Consider adding a little bit of holiday cheer to your store in the form of a wreath or a small Christmas tree.  Strings of lights or ornaments hanging from the ceiling might also serve as additional festive touches.

Do You Hear What I Hear? – Mix some Christmas music into your store soundtrack, such as non-religious, holiday classics sung by contemporary artists or instrumental favorites.  Doing so may instantly perk up customers in your store, causing them to hum or sing along.  If they like what they hear, they may even stick around for a longer period of time—and purchase even more.  However, be mindful that too much holiday music—or holiday music played before December 1st—can also be a deterrent to some customers.

Let it Snow! Let it Snow! Let it Snow!  - BUT…make sure that you have supplies on hand to keep people moving, such as windshield wiper fluid, ice scrapers, antifreeze, ice melt and gloves.  Also, keep your parking lot and sidewalks clear of ice and snow so that no one is injured while on your property.

The Twelve Days of Christmas – Now’s the time to have those readily accessible gifts handy for your customers to purchase!  Promote your gift cards and lottery tickets.  Sell gourmet chocolates and refillable coffee mugs.  Consider stocking accessories for iPods and MP3 players.  Remind people that phone cards can help them stay in touch with their loved ones during the holidays.  These, and other items, are great options for those last-minute shoppers, and I’m sure we all know a few of them!

You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch - There’s nothing that can break a great mood faster than bad customer service, especially during the holidays.  Make sure that all of your customers are greeted with a smile and asked whether or not they need assistance—and don’t forget to thank them when they leave!  Remind your staff of how important customer service is to your business.

Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas!  No matter your beliefs, Christmas is a season of goodwill and cheer.  Millions of people will be traveling to and from stores or events that celebrate the season, and it is likely that you will have many repeat and first-time customers visit your store.  By showing a little spirit yourself, you’re sure to make a positive impression on everyone you meet—leading to increased sales and customer loyalty in the New Year! 

See you in 2011!

Comments

[Jayme]

Such a fun Blog to read! Great Job!