When it comes to your bottom line, the holidays are critical. After all, 20 to 40 percent of yearly sales take place during November and December.
And while sales in the first quarter of the calendar year tend to slow down for most, there are things you can do to give your post-holiday sales a boost. You might try special discounts, target marketing in the new year, and some sales swag to help get customers through the door.
Hype after the holidays
While the holidays are officially over after January 1, the truth is that many families and businesses are still holding holiday gatherings as the new year begins. Extending your “holiday” and Boxing Day sales a week or two into January—and letting your customers know you’re doing so—allows them to take advantage of sales they didn’t have time to check out during the busy holiday season. Plus, those needing a gift for a post-holiday gathering can still take advantage of the deals. And don’t forget all the people looking to spend the gift cards they received.
Market to resolution makers
About one in three Canadians make some kind of New Year’s resolution. Among the top resolutions:
- Lose weight and/or eat healthier
- Life- and/or self-improvements
- Make better financial choices
So why not give your customers items that will help them meet their new goals?
In addition to holding a New Year’s resolutions sale, hand out promotional giveaway items with each purchase. People who want to eat more fruits and veggies may appreciate a smoothie bottle. Those looking to make better financial choices may find a coupon cutter useful. And for customers who want to get moving, enter them into a draw for a pedometer watch.
Get ready for returns
Customers returning or exchanging gifts are actually a potential new sale. After all, they’re already in your store. Offer a discount to anyone who buys more than they return. Or arrange your store to feature multiple impulse purchases that will capture visitors’ attention.
Start another sale
Customers who love discounts are especially motivated to buy during clearance sales. At the same time, you need to make room for new spring products. Create a win-win situation and have a winter closeout sale! Draw in even more customers by offering a free gift, like a large tote bag they can use while shopping. Or a give them a flower seed bookmark and remind them that spring is coming.
New year, new products, new sales
As the holidays wind down, it’s time to get creative with new year sales. Use sales swag to entice customers to visit your store, and welcome in a new, profitable year!