Last year, we saw awareness for Small Business Saturday skyrocket as American shoppers spent $5.7 billion in support of local business. This shopping holiday will certainly continue to grow, so it’s important for small business owners to ensure they’re properly equipped to meet customer demands for this year’s Small Business Saturday on November 29, 2014.
Here are a few tips to help your small business prepare for the rush:
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Establish a support system
We often hear small businesses referred to as the “backbone of the community.” One of the things that makes a backbone so resilient is the way its individual vertebrae work together.
Small business owners can take a cue from this analogy by banding together on social media, message boards and online forums. These platforms provide a place for retailers to bounce ideas off one another, collaborate with nearby businesses on activities such as joint promotions and events, or receive advice from owners in similar industries.
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Offer unique perks
Small Business Saturday is the perfect time to introduce seasonal shopping perks and discounts. For example, consider offering layaway for big-ticket items, or free shipping for shoppers who spend a certain amount. These deals can attract new customers and give a boost to the typical “50% off” sale.
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Ensure technology is up to snuff
The biggest damper on any Small Business Saturday sale is a technical mishap. That’s why it’s so important to use software that is capable of scaling and meeting increased demand. Look for POS, shipping and ecommerce technology that can work together seamlessly.
With a little forethought and creativity, your small business can have a lucrative Small Business Saturday. Endicia is proud to support local retailers like you with software that takes the guesswork out of shipping so you can focus on what matters most — serving your customers. To learn how Endicia can help you simplify your shipping workflow, take a look at this short video.
For more insight, check out our ecommerce tips and trends page.