Monday, January 13, 2025

Stay Connected: Get Notified when Registration Opens for RCI’s 2025 Annual Convention

Relationships are the key to success in any industry. The chocolate and candy industry is no different—this industry thrives on connection and collaboration. Building strong relationships with fellow candy makers and suppliers is not just beneficial—it’s essential for growing your business. That’s why you won’t want to miss RCI’s 2025 Annual Convention & Industry Expo, where networking meets inspiration in the sweetest way possible.

This year’s theme, “Inspiring Generations of Candy Makers,” celebrates the diverse experiences and ideas that every generation brings to the industry. Whether you’re part of a multi-generational business or in your first generation, this event promises something for everyone. From valuable educational sessions, a two-day industry expo to insightful confectionery tours, you’ll leave with new ideas and connections to take your business to the next level.

Mark your calendars now!

This year's candy convention will take place June 16-19, 2025 at the Northern Kentucky Convention Center in Covington, Kentucky, just across the river from downtown Cincinnati. Over the course of the week, you’ll have the chance to:

  • Meet and learn from other candy makers and industry experts.
  • Explore the latest products and innovations from exhibitors during the two-day expo.
  • Attend educational sessions packed with tips and strategies tailored for the confectionery industry.
  • Participate in a full day of confectionery tours to see fellow candy makers in action.

Want to be the first to know when registration opens? 

Signing up for notifications ensures you’ll have access to early-bird registration rates and can start planning your trip well in advance. Whether you’re an RCI member or not, all industry professionals are welcome to join this one-of-a-kind candy convention. Visit retailconfectioners.org/annual to sign up and learn more.

While you’re at it, stay connected year-round by signing up for the RCI NewsBrief, our free weekly e-newsletter. Delivered straight to your inbox, it’s packed with updates on the chocolate and candy industry, plus insights on marketing, business trends, and more. Sign up today and stay in the know!

Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, learn, and grow alongside the best in the confectionery industry. We can’t wait to see you in 2025!

Crave more? Click here to subscribe and start receiving weekly tips, like this, delivered straight to your email inbox. RCI's blog is just one of the many resources we offer to help candy makers refine their craft and build upon their business and marketing practices. Follow us on Facebook for even more sweet inspiration.

Not a member? Click here to learn how RCI can help you build your sweet business.

Tuesday, January 7, 2025

Valentine's Day Roundup: Top RCI Blog Posts

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and we’ve got seven blog posts to spark your creativity! From unique gift ideas for kids and teens to tips for crafting chocolate treats and boosting sales, this collection covers everything, including "smash hearts," chocolate charcuterie boards, and Atomic Fireball creams. So let’s dive in! 

5 Super Simple Valentine’s Day Gifts for Kids & Teens

We all know Valentine’s Day isn’t all about romance. Many shoppers will also be looking for gift ideas for the kids in their life, which is why we’re sharing inspiration for fun and easy gift ideas that are sure to make any kiddo feel the love this Valentine’s Day. Read more.

Have a Smashing Valentine’s Day with Smash Hearts

Despite the irony, smash hearts aren’t reserved exclusively for soon-to-be exes. In fact, they make for fun, interactive gifts that make friends and family members really feel the love! Read this blog post for inspiration before for adding these trendy smash hearts to your product line, including simple solutions for transforming your existing chocolate moulds and ideas for filling your smash hearts. Read more.

5 #Adorbs Ideas to Transform Treats for Valentine’s Day

Looking to celebrate this Valentine’s Day in a big way, but with little extra effort? If you already make chocolate-covered sandwich cookies or pretzels, these ideas will require very little, if any, additional ingredients and minimal effort. Read on for five quick and easy tricks to make your existing treats #adorbs this Valentine’s Day. Read more. 

Valentine’s Day Inspiration: Sweet Heat

What started as a nod to these classic hot candies has become a popular Valentine’s Day treat and the limited availability of a once-a-year batch adds to its appeal. If you are a fan of Red Hots® and Atomic FireBalls, then you’ll love this Valentine’s Day inspiration from RCI member Wilbur’s of Maine Chocolate Confections. Read more.

Build Your Own Chocolate Charcuterie Boards for Valentine's Day

Learn how to make beautiful chocolate charcuterie boards for Valentine’s Day using what you already have in your store! This post shares simple tips to build, decorate, and sell these eye-catching treats. Perfect for gifts or gatherings—check out this blog post to find out how! Read more.

3 Tips to Make Chocolate-Covered Strawberries Last Longer

If you sell chocolate-covered strawberries for the holidays, more specifically Valentine’s Day, and have found yourself working from sunrise to sunset to keep up with demand, these tips are for you! Read this post for three pro tips to maximize your efforts and extend the shelf-life of these delicate fruit confections. Read more. 

Red Hot Tips for Increasing Valentine’s Sales

Get ahead for Valentine’s Day with simple tips to boost sales and stand out! From using bold red themes to encouraging pre-orders and clear shipping dates, these ideas make shopping easy and stress-free. Read on to learn more! Read more.

Make this Valentine’s Day your best yet! With these simple ideas and tips, you can wow your customers, increase sales, and share the love. Start planning today!

Crave more? Click here to subscribe and start receiving weekly tips, like this, delivered straight to your email inbox. RCI's blog is just one of the many resources we offer to help candy makers refine their craft and build upon their business and marketing practices. Follow us on Facebook for even more sweet inspiration.

Not a member? Click here to learn how RCI can help you build your sweet business.

Tuesday, December 31, 2024

The Best of 2024: 5 Most-Read Posts from the RCI Blog

Happy New Year’s Eve! As 2024 comes to a close, we’re taking a moment to look back on the highlights of the year. It’s been a sweet year, and we can’t wait for more exciting events and opportunities in 2025. Be sure to check out our upcoming events at retailconfectioners.org/events to stay in the loop!

To wrap up the year, we’re sharing RCI’s most-read blog posts of 2024. If you missed them the first time—or just want to revisit some great content—you’re in for a treat! These posts are packed with useful tips and fun ideas you won’t want to miss.

Elevate Your Boxed Chocolates with a Premium Centerpiece

In this popular post, we shared a simple but impactful tip that can elevate your boxed chocolates and potentially boost your profits without adding much to your cost per box.

Game Day Sweets: 5 Football-Themed Treats for the Win

Football season isn’t just for fans—it's the perfect time for candy makers and chocolatiers to get creative! With the Super Bowl approaching, demand for football-themed sweets is on the rise. Check out this popular post for fun, inspiring ideas to make your treats a touchdown at game-day gatherings!

Try this Viral Strawberry Treat with a Twist

Think chocolate-covered strawberries can't survive the summer heat? Think again! Inspired by a viral idea from a London market, this unexpected treat could be a hit for late summer and fall events. Read this post to start planning for spring and summer months—and maybe even Valentine’s Day?!

Best of Easter: Top 5 Easter Posts

Get ready for your best Easter season yet! Check out our favorite Easter-themed blog posts, packed with creative ideas for custom baskets, over-the-top egg offerings, and tips for hosting a fun, hands-on event. Don’t miss out on this treasure trove of inspiration!

5 Secret Weapons for Selling Chocolate at Outdoor Events

As you plan for the year ahead, consider selling at outdoor events to reach hundreds or even thousands of new customers. This blog post features 5 key tips for making the most of farmers markets and festivals, helping you boost your brand and sales in 2025!

We’re excited to share more helpful tips with you in 2025! Stay tuned for more ideas and inspiration to help you make the most of the year ahead!

Crave more? Click here to subscribe and start receiving weekly tips, like this, delivered straight to your email inbox. RCI's blog is just one of the many resources we offer to help candy makers refine their craft and build upon their business and marketing practices. Follow us on Facebook for even more sweet inspiration.

Not a member? Click here to learn how RCI can help you build your sweet business.

Tuesday, December 24, 2024

A Christmas Eve Message for 2024: Celebrate & Reflect

Merry Christmas Eve! For many of you in the candy business, today is likely one of your busiest days of the year. Orders are flying, last-minute customers are buzzing, and the sweet hustle is in full swing. But soon, things will begin to wind down, and you’ll have a chance to catch your breath.

As the day unfolds, remember—you’ve got this! All your hard work and preparation have brought you to this moment, and you’re making the season a little sweeter for so many. Take pride in that.

When the pace finally slows, take a minute to breathe and reflect on 2024. Celebrate the wins, big and small, and acknowledge what you have accomplished. Whether it was a standout year for your business, or a year of growth through challenges, every experience has shaped you and your team.

Plan a team lunch, organize a fun family outing, or simply share a heartfelt thank-you. Get everyone involved by asking them to share their favorite memories or personal achievements from the year—it’s a great way to connect and boost morale.

So, as you finish strong today, know that you’re doing amazing work. When the day quiets down, give yourself permission to pause, reflect, and enjoy the magic of the season. Here’s to a well-earned celebration and an exciting year ahead.

Crave more? Click here to subscribe and start receiving weekly tips, like this, delivered straight to your email inbox. RCI's blog is just one of the many resources we offer to help candy makers refine their craft and build upon their business and marketing practices. Follow us on Facebook for even more sweet inspiration.

Not a member? Click here to learn how RCI can help you build your sweet business.

Tuesday, December 17, 2024

Holiday Recap Checklist: Key Questions to Ask Now

As the week before Christmas unfolds, now is a good time to plan how you'll track important details during and after the holidays. Taking note of what works and what doesn’t work can make next year’s holiday season run more smoothly.

Questions to ask as a post-holiday recap may include:

  • What day of the week did the holiday fall on? This can affect shopping patterns.
  • How’s the weather? Does it help or hurt sales?
  • Which sales or promotions did you offer? Pay attention to what gets the best response.
  • How’s your inventory? Did you have too much of some products/supplies or not enough of others?
  • Was staffing adequate for each day and time leading up to the holiday? Ensure your team can handle pre-holiday surges.

Get your team involved, too. They often hear useful feedback from customers that can help you plan better for next year. These questions can be used to track and review all major holidays, including Valentine’s Day, Easter, etc. RCI Members: Login to the member site to download a comprehensive Holiday Sales Recap template within “Templates and Tools” in the Business Tool Kit, under Member Resources.

By taking the time to track and review these things now, you’ll have a clearer picture of what to adjust for the future—setting yourself up for an even better holiday season next year.

Crave more? Click here to subscribe and start receiving weekly tips, like this, delivered straight to your email inbox. RCI's blog is just one of the many resources we offer to help candy makers refine their craft and build upon their business and marketing practices. Follow us on Facebook for even more sweet inspiration.

Not a member? Click here to learn how RCI can help you build your sweet business. 

Monday, December 9, 2024

Winter Appeal: How to Keep Your Products Relevant Beyond Christmas

 

Here’s a surprising tip for the week before Christmas: stop making Christmas-themed products and packaging. It may sound a bit crazy but hear us out! Focusing on winter-themed items instead (think snowmen, snowflakes, cozy winter scenes) can make your products more versatile and appealing beyond Christmas, lasting into the New Year.

Why This Shift Works

Holiday-specific packaging and designs can lose their appeal as soon as Christmas is over. By pivoting to a general winter theme, you make your products suitable for both holiday gifting and as thoughtful treats into January. A snowflake-covered box or a snowman-themed treat feels just as festive now as it does in the depths of winter.

Ideas for Winter-Themed Confections

Photo credit: O’Shea’s Candies
Snow-Dusted Chocolates 
A sprinkle of luster dust or powdered sugar on top adds a "snow-dusted" touch, making your chocolate confections feel both seasonal and special. We love how RCI member, O’Shea’s Candies, transforms a chocolate-covered caramel marshmallow into a “Snowball” by coating it in shredded coconut.

Photo credit: Glerup Revere Packaging

Peppermint Bark in Snowflake Packaging
Peppermint bark is a classic, and when wrapped in simple, clear packaging with red and white ribbons, it looks festive without being holiday-specific. Place them in snowflake bags or boxes to make them great gifts through the winter.

Hot Cocoa
Hot cocoa is perfect for chilly days and can be packaged in boxes with cozy knit patterns or winter themes. This warm, inviting look is ideal for the season and works well as a stocking stuffer or New Year’s treat.

Photo credits: Snowman Marshmallow Pops by Bomboy’s Home Made Candy; White Chocolates Snowflakes by Abdallah Chocolates

Snowmen and Winter Shapes
Moulded chocolate snowmen or snowflakes can be festive both before and after the holidays. Package them in clear or frosted bags tied with silver or blue ribbon.

Making this small switch can help keep your products relevant longer and cater to those last-minute shoppers looking for thoughtful gifts that go beyond the holiday rush.

Crave more? Click here to subscribe and start receiving weekly tips, like this, delivered straight to your email inbox. RCI's blog is just one of the many resources we offer to help candy makers refine their craft and build upon their business and marketing practices. Follow us on Facebook for even more sweet inspiration.

Not a member? Click here to learn how RCI can help you build your sweet business.

Monday, December 2, 2024

Best of Christmas: Top Christmas Posts from the RCI Blog

This “most wonderful time of the year” is officially here! We’re sharing a holiday-inspired compilation of tips and inspiration to help make this holiday season your merriest yet! 

10 Ways to Feature Candy Canes this Christmas

What better way to celebrate the holidays than with candy canes? These classic red and white striped treats are a staple of Christmas and can be used in a variety of ways to add a festive touch to your confectionery creations. In this blog post, we share 10 creative and easy ideas for incorporating candy canes into your product mix and presentation for the holidays. Read more.

Stand Out with Instagram-Worthy Holiday Treats

How Instagram-worthy are your holiday treats? Social media, like Instagram and Facebook, have proven to be effective tools for reaching consumers, however if A.) you’re not sharing photos of your products on your social media sites daily or B.) they don’t stand out from other holiday gifts, you could be missing out on a massive opportunity to gain new customers this season. Click here to snag creative ideas to transform some of your potentially existing treats (like chocolate-covered cookies and rice cereal treats) into new holiday favorites.

How to Sell More Stocking Stuffers

With gentle nudging, you can help ensure stockings (and your bottom line) overflow with sweetness this holiday season! Stockings stuffers are the ultimate impulse purchase, representing the opportunity to add a few extra dollars to in-store and online purchases. In post, we explore two key components that make for great stocking stuffers and how to increase sales with effective marketing and merchandising. Read more.

5 Quick & Easy Treats to Add to your Stocking Stuffer Display

Add extra dollars to in-store and online purchases by selling more stocking stuffers this holiday season. Above, we shared how to sell more stocking stuffers by identifying products that meet two key components. Next up, we’ve got five quick and easy ideas for products to beef up your stocking stuffer display. Read more. 

How to Make a Very Merry Christmas Truffle Tree

While truffles make for a sweet holiday gift, a stunning truffle tree is sure to make any Christmas celebration unforgettable! This post highlights steps to make your own truffle tree from an RCI member, plus inspiration for creating a very merry holiday showpiece. Read more.

We hope that these posts inspire you to get creative this holiday season and make it one to remember.

Crave more? Click here to subscribe and start receiving weekly tips, like this, delivered straight to your email inbox. RCI's blog is just one of the many resources we offer to help candy makers refine their craft and build upon their business and marketing practices. Follow us on Facebook for even more sweet inspiration.

Not a member? Click here to learn how RCI can help you build your sweet business.

Tuesday, November 26, 2024

Spice Up Your Holidays with Gingerbread-Inspired Treats

Gingerbread is one of the most loved holiday flavors, bringing back warm memories of festive baking and family gatherings. For retail confectioners, it’s a perfect choice to spice up your chocolates and treats. Here are some simple, creative ways to work gingerbread flavor and decoration into your products:

Photo credit: Charbonnel et Walker

Gingerbread Truffles

Truffles are a great canvas for highlighting gingerbread’s warm spices. Mix ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, clove, and molasses into a chocolate ganache filling. Coat the truffles in dark or milk chocolate and roll them in crushed gingerbread cookies or spiced sugar. As an example, Charbonnel et Walker makes chocolate truffles infused with real ginger flavor and hand rolled in milk chocolate and gingerbread cookie pieces, before another coating of chocolate for a decadent texture.

Gingerbread Caramels

Soft, chewy caramels with a gingerbread twist are a welcome treat for the holidays. Add gingerbread spices and molasses to your caramel recipe for a rich, warm flavor. As a limited-time edition, RCI Member Abdallah Candies creates a festive fusion of spicy gingerbread and old-fashioned wrapped caramels for a delicious and nostalgic treat.

Photo credit: Marie’s Candies

Chocolate-Covered Gingerbread Cookies

Gingerbread cookies are a classic holiday treat, but dipping them in chocolate makes them extra special. Dip half of a gingerbread cookie in dark or white chocolate, then decorate with a drizzle of contrasting chocolate or a sprinkle of crushed candy canes. This simple upgrade turns a traditional cookie into a gourmet holiday delight.

Photo credit: Dietsch Brothers

Gingerbread Gummies

Run, run as fast as you can to add these Jolly Gingerbread Gummies by Albanese Confectionery to your holiday assortment. These cute gingerbread men and colorful gumdrop friends add some fun and fruity flavor to your holiday season. Package for snacking or as part of gingerbread house decorating kits, they’re a festive addition customers will love this holiday season. Click here for tips on creating your own Gingerbread House Kits.


Photo credit: Compartes/Facebook

Chocolate Gingerbread Bark

Chocolate bark is an easy way to get creative. Spread melted dark or milk chocolate, then swirl in some white chocolate. Sprinkle crushed gingerbread cookies, candied orange peel, or toasted nuts on top. Once it hardens, break it into pieces for a fun, shareable treat that looks great in gift bags or tins. Compartés packages as “Gingerbread Bark Breakable Chocolate” in a luxury gift box containing chocolate bark studded with gingerbread cookies and crystallized ginger.

Holiday Packaging

Make your gingerbread-inspired treats stand out with festive packaging. Use warm, holiday colors like red, gold, and white, or even patterns that mimic gingerbread houses. Labels that describe the cozy spices and flavors inside will help customers feel the holiday spirit.

Adding gingerbread to your gourmet chocolates and confections is a simple way to bring the warmth and joy of the holidays to your customers. With these ideas, you can turn classic holiday flavors into irresistible treats that are perfect for gifting—or just enjoying!

Crave more? Click here to subscribe and start receiving weekly tips, like this, delivered straight to your email inbox. RCI's blog is just one of the many resources we offer to help candy makers refine their craft and build upon their business and marketing practices. Follow us on Facebook for even more sweet inspiration.

Not a member? Click here to learn how RCI can help you build your sweet business.

Tuesday, November 19, 2024

4 Ways to Support Your Team During the Holidays

The holiday season is a whirlwind for retail candy makers, with employees working hard to spread joy through sweet treats. Supporting your team is important for keeping spirits high, showing how much their work is valued and improving employee retention. Here are some ways to help your team feel appreciated during the holidays, with insights from RCI candy maker members.

Stock the Break Room

Long hours and demanding tasks can take a toll on employees' energy and health. Stocking the break room with snacks and drinks can help boost morale and energy levels during busy seasons. Jason Mootz of Michael Mootz Candies shares, “Before every major holiday, we put out 'Holiday Survival Kits' for our team. These kits include protein bars, Emergen-C packs, fresh fruit and homemade energy bites. We also like to hand out gift certificates so staff members can share our chocolates with their families. They are a huge part of our success, and we so appreciate them.”

Share a Meal Together

Sharing a meal together can help employees recharge and celebrate the season. RCI member Jennifer Crudden of Rosalind Candy Castle shares, “We like to have lunch or dinner parties as a thanks for their extra effort throughout the holidays.” RCI member Jamee Enstrom Simons of Enstrom Candies agrees, saying, “During the holidays, our management staff makes breakfast for all employees one morning. That’s always a hit!” 

If a meal for the whole team is not in the budget this year, work out a trade for lunch from a local restaurant or caterer in exchange for chocolates for their team. Another idea is to host a potluck and you supply the main dish.

Express Employee Recognition

Recognition in the form of a simple thank-you note or shout out in the company newsletter or on the white board in the breakroom can make employees feel appreciated. Jamee Simons highlights the value of celebrating milestones, saying, “At our holiday party, we celebrate years of service milestones, with some employees having been with us for over 40 years!”

Encourage Open Communication

A supportive work environment begins with listening. Rosalind Candy Castle practices an open-door policy, Jennifer Crudden states, “We welcome the team to come to us with any questions or share personal issues they may be experiencing.” Building trust and fostering open dialogue shows employees that their concerns are heard and addressed.

With nearly three-quarters of retail workers reporting holiday stress (Zipline), it’s important to support your team during this time. Providing energy-boosting snacks, hosting team meals, encouraging open communication and recognizing efforts are simple yet meaningful ways to ease stress and show your appreciation. A little effort goes a long way in creating a happy and motivated team during the busiest time of the year.

Crave more? Click here to subscribe and start receiving weekly tips, like this, delivered straight to your email inbox. RCI's blog is just one of the many resources we offer to help candy makers refine their craft and build upon their business and marketing practices. Follow us on Facebook for even more sweet inspiration.

Not a member? Click here to learn how RCI can help you build your sweet business.

Monday, November 11, 2024

Get Ready for Small Business Saturday with Tips + Downloadable Graphics

Small Business Saturday can be a sweet opportunity for retail confectioners to attract more customers, boost holiday sales, and connect with your local community. Launched by American Express in 2010, this event encourages shoppers to support local stores on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. With over 60% of shoppers taking part and $23 billion spent in recent years, it’s a day every small business should make the most of. Here’s how candy shops can do just that:

Offer Special Treats and Bundles

Create limited-time specials just for Small Business Saturday. You could offer holiday-themed treats, “buy-one-get-one” deals, free samples with purchase or exclusive gift bundles. Special promotions like these make the day exciting and help attract both new and returning customers who love getting unique, seasonal treats.

Emphasize Local and Handmade

Small candy shops have something big-box stores don’t: locally made, handcrafted sweets. Promote your shop’s personal touch and unique offerings both in-store and online. People love knowing they’re supporting a local business, and studies show that many customers are more likely to buy when they feel a connection to the business, especially with food and treats.

Above is a preview of RCI’s member-exclusive collection of graphics for small businesses. RCI Members: Click here to login and download graphics from RCI’s member site. Not an RCI member? Click here to learn how RCI can help you build your sweet business.

Build Hype with Social Media and Email

Social media is a great tool to build excitement for the day. Share “behind-the-scenes” posts on Instagram showing how your candy is made or give previews of special treats. Engage your followers with sneak peeks, announcements, and even live updates. An email reminder to your customers with a discount or early access to treats can also bring them into the shop. RCI Members: Click here to login and download a collection of five social media graphics to help promote your small business on Small Business Saturday or any day of the year!

Partner with Other Local Businesses

Collaborating with like-minded businesses in your community can help bring in even more shoppers. For example, you could offer discounts for customers who visit another local store, or set up a joint event to encourage people to shop around. Cross-promotions help customers support several businesses in one outing and boost your store’s exposure.

Start a Loyalty Program

Small Business Saturday is a great time to introduce a rewards program. You could offer deals like “buy four, get one free” on small items or a discount card for future visits. Research shows that loyalty programs increase how often people shop, helping you keep customers well past the holiday season.

Participating in Small Business Saturday not only boosts sales, but it also lets you create connections and remind shoppers why local businesses are the heart of the community. Embrace the day, share your passion for confections, and enjoy the support of those who value what you do.

Crave more? Click here to subscribe and start receiving weekly tips, like this, delivered straight to your email inbox. RCI's blog is just one of the many resources we offer to help candy makers refine their craft and build upon their business and marketing practices. Follow us on Facebook for even more sweet inspiration.

Not a member? Click here to learn how RCI can help you build your sweet business.


Tuesday, November 5, 2024

Boost Holiday Sales with Point-of-Sale Treats

 

With the holiday season approaching, shoppers will come to your store in search of the perfect gifts. To enhance their shopping experience and boost your sales, consider optimizing your point of sale (POS) strategy. A simple yet effective tactic is to offer small, enticing items right at the checkout counter. 


Photo credits (from left): Bruce’s Candy Kitchen, Marie’s Candies

A sleeve of beautifully decorated chocolate-covered sandwich cookies or a charming little bag of foil-wrapped chocolates can easily be added to a customer's purchase. Presenting small, eye-catching treats by the register, perhaps tied with a festive bow or ribbon, creates a visually appealing display that encourages impulse buys. This not only enhances the shopping experience but also prompts customers to treat themselves or grab a quick gift.

Positioning and Pricing for Success

To make this strategy effective, consider the placement and pricing of your POS items. Items should be easily visible and within arm's reach of customers as they wait in line. Keep the price reasonable—around $3 to $5—so customers feel comfortable adding these small extras to their purchase.

Highlight Seasonal Favorites

Offering seasonal items can add to the holiday spirit and draw customers in. For instance, a pair of holiday-themed chocolate truffles or a square of peppermint bark can create a festive atmosphere and resonate with customers looking for something special.

Encourage Shoppers to Treat Themselves

A small sign saying something like, “You deserve a treat!” can remind shoppers to enjoy a little pick-me-up. After a long day of holiday shopping, many people appreciate a small indulgence.

Before the holiday rush, take a look at your checkout area. Make sure it’s stocked with fun, affordable items that make great little gifts or quick treats. By adding these festive extras, you can increase sales and make your customers’ holiday shopping experience more enjoyable.

Crave more? Click here to subscribe and start receiving weekly tips, like this, delivered straight to your email inbox. RCI's blog is just one of the many resources we offer to help candy makers refine their craft and build upon their business and marketing practices. Follow us on Facebook for even more sweet inspiration.

Not a member? Click here to learn how RCI can help you build your sweet business.