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.
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