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.

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.