Do
stagnant summer sales leave you longing for Christmas (well, maybe, minus the crazy
schedule)? If so, you’re not alone. Blame it on the heat, summer vacations and
the lack of major holidays, if you’re
in the retail industry it’s no surprise summer is likely going to be a slow
season (unless your business is in a tourism location).
 |
| Photos: Dallas News |
You
wouldn’t expect to hear Christmas carols or see Santa posing for photos in
board shorts and a Hawaiian shirt in the peak of summer. Make your business stand out by hosting a
Christmas party in July, complete with a sampling of your favorite Christmas
treats, giveaways, live music and Santa in his vacation attire.
GENERATE NEW CUSTOMERS
A
study published by Adobe
Digital shows repeat customers spend 25% more per transaction during the
holiday rush, compared to a new customer who spends only 15% more during the holiday
season.To help convert new customers into return customers, CaffeineInteractive.com
suggests offering those who make a purchase during your Christmas in July
promotion, a discount on future purchases between Black Friday and New Year’s
Day. Consider keeping a separate email list for these customers, to send them a
coupon just before Black Friday.
REWARD LOYAL CUSTOMERS
Celebrate loyal customers by throwing a Christmas-themed customer appreciation party or offering a free gift
for shopping in July. Shopkeep
recommends inviting loyal customers to a flash sale in their honor and offering
additional incentives for bringing a friend. Spread the word by sending
invitations with details via email or snail mail.
Creating
memorable shopping experiences for new and return customers may help pad more
than just your summer sales. Kathy Allen of the National Retail Federation told
USA
Today, “When the holiday season does come, maybe that person who had a
wonderful experience shopping in July remembers to come back, and will spend
their holiday dollars there, or their Halloween dollars or their birthday
dollars.” Do you celebrate Christmas in July? If so, share your ideas in the
comments below.
Stay connected with RCI
through Facebook for
more tips and inspiration dedicated to the retail candy maker. Not a
member? Click here to learn how RCI can help
you build your sweet business.
