The holiday season can be hectic, but with the right strategies, it’s also one of the best times to grow your business and boost revenue. Small tweaks, like bundling products, extending hours, or curating gift options, can make a big difference for your customers and bottom line. Here are practical ways to make your business stand out this holiday season:
- Bundle Products or Services for Added Value
Holiday shoppers love getting more for their money. Create product or service bundles that offer a slight discount.
For example:
- A boutique could bundle a scarf, gloves, and candle at 10% off.
- A salon might offer a “Holiday Pampering Package” with a manicure, pedicure, and skincare gift card at a bundled rate.
Bundles encourage customers to spend more while giving them a sense of value. Make sure to promote these deals with clear signage and on your website and social media channels.
- Sell Gift Cards for a Quick Revenue Boost
Gift cards are an excellent way to bring in cash now and customers later. Promote them heavily during the holidays since they’re an easy gift option.
- Place gift cards near checkout counters for impulse buys.
- Offer a small bonus, like “Buy a $50 Gift Card, Get a $5 Card Free” to encourage larger purchases.
- Promote gift cards online with digital options for last-minute shoppers.
Gift cards are often redeemed after the holidays, giving you a chance to extend your busy season into the new year!
- Extend Your Store Hours to Match Customer Schedules
Many customers are shopping during evenings, weekends, or lunch breaks—make sure your hours fit their schedules. Small adjustments like opening earlier or staying open later on peak shopping days can increase traffic.
- Add extra weekend hours or stay open later.
- Use Google My Business, your website, and social media to update your special holiday hours.
- Place signs with your extended hours near your storefront to make sure passersby know when you’re open.
Convenience is key, and a little flexibility can make all the difference in capturing more holiday sales.
- Create Preselected Gifts in Price Tiers
Many shoppers work with a specific budget in mind. Make it easier for them to find what they need by organizing gifts into price tiers, such as:
- Gifts Under $25: Small, thoughtful items like candles or accessories.
- Gifts Under $50: Mid-tier options like cozy sweaters or gourmet food kits.
- Gifts Under $75: Larger gifts like premium gift boxes or home goods.
Display these items together in-store and on your website, with clear signage or filters, to simplify the shopping experience.
- Create Personalized Gift Categories
Help your customers shop smarter by curating gift ideas around themes that appeal to their interests or relationships. Examples include:
- Gifts for the Fitness Lover: Water bottles, gym bags, and activewear.
- Self-Care Essentials for Busy Parents: Bath bombs, journals, and candles.
- Outdoor Enthusiast Must-Haves: Hiking gear, water bottles, and travel backpacks.
Use what you know about your customers to develop meaningful categories that resonate. Promote these themed gift lists on your website, in-store displays, and across your social media to inspire shoppers and make their decision-making easier.
If you are interested in more holiday tips, our team of business consultants at The University of Scranton Small Business Development Center is just a phone call or a click away! Get started by calling (570) 941-7588 or by visiting www.pasbdc.org/scranton to request consulting.
