When it comes to having a brick and mortar store – foot traffic is one of your most important sales measures. Increasing your foot traffic can have a dramatic impact on your business.
Here are some strategies you can use to get more people in your door:
- Increase Curb Appeal
First impressions are everything. If you have a clean and inviting storefront, it will speak volumes about your business. Smart retailers invest in their storefront to make it more attractive and inviting. Make sure you have a visible “open” sign, and consider adding something extra, like a sidewalk sign where you can advertise specials.
- Create an Experience
People will value an experience over things – they will make a purchase as a reminder of a one-of-a-kind store. People also want to connect with the person behind-the-scenes. Connecting to your customers will humanize your business. If you can’t always do this in person, post photos on your website or social media that portray the experience of your brand.
- Connect Locally
Make sure you are aware of what is going on in your community. Make a calendar with all of the events that are happening locally. Figure out which events cater to your customer base and offer a promotion/special/or just a shout-out highlighting that event. This will help to increase your foot traffic, as well as help by cross-promoting with other businesses in your community.
- Seasonal Marketing
Be sure to use seasonal marketing to change your storefront and offer special promotions or discounts. You don’t need to go overboard, but try to change it at least four times a year. Use the holidays as a way to draw people in, even if you think they don’t necessarily relate to your business, get creative with them.
- Build Loyalty
Reward your customers for their loyalty. No matter the size of your store, implementing some sort of loyalty program can show your customers that you value their business. If you give free things to your customers, they are more likely to come back to spend money with you later. Do a giveaway, offer free samples, or do a raffle. All of these things will increase your traffic and build customer loyalty. Are you worried that giving things away will cut into your profits? Studies show that businesses that give things away for free actually increase their profits.
- Host Events/Classes/Seminars
The kind of events that you host will depend on your business. Having events at your space is a great way to increase foot traffic. Host events that your ideal customers will be interested in. Educational events are especially successful. For instance, if you have a hardware store, have someone come in to teach people how to do a DIY project for their home. This way, you are getting traffic to your location while offering your customer something of value.
A large percentage of retail shopping still takes place in brick and mortar stores. If you take the time to create an experience your customers enjoy, you reward them for their loyalty, and you make important connections to your community, your local foot traffic is sure to increase.
Contact The Light Digital for help marketing your local business.
