One of the things that people tend to underestimate about running a business is just how tricky it can be to capture the attention of the market. With thousands of brands and companies to compete with, even in a relatively small area, standing out from the crowd can seem near impossible sometimes. However, it gets easier to make a splash once you learn what it is that consumers want. And, most of the time, it is to be intrigued, entertained, or surprised.
So, the best way to attract customers and increase foot traffic is to think outside of the box. Even if it is something as casual as handing out free samples, the reality is that getting out there and actually speaking to people is important. Your brand is much more likely to be remembered if shoppers have a personal experience to look back on that they can share with friends and family members. Fortunately, there is an endless numbers of ways for you to give them one.
Keep reading for some truly creative ways to drive foot traffic into your store and get customers talking about the brand.
1. Lease a Photo Booth
If you want to give customers something to smile about, lease a fun photo booth and invite them in to make some memories. Investing in a photo booth service is a great idea, because it is something that never really goes out of style. This is the perfect addition, particularly for restaurants, pubs, clubs and other venues. Other trends fall in and out of favour, but photo booth snaps are always iconic.
2. Provide Seasonal Discounts
While offering discounts and freebies is hardly a new ploy, not all businesses take advantage of the fact that seasonal changes tend to drive shoppers to the high street. Whether it is to buy a new wardrobe, stock up on seasonal essentials, or just because they fancy a change; these transitions are great times to offer discounts. Just make sure that you have a cut-off date, so that customers know they have to be quick to benefit.
3. Throw a Branded Event
The prospect of throwing an entire event can be a daunting one, but the truth is that, once your brand becomes synonymous with a certain date or time of the year, shoppers will remember it. This is why throwing the same event, once per year, is a great way to remind customers that you are a valuable, consistent presence.
4. Get Involved with Local Events
When your local area is celebrating, you should be too. Whenever there are big parades, fairs, or other events due to take place, find a way to incorporate them into your business. Once again, it could be something as simple as handing out chocolate or product samples on the doorstep of the store. Or, you could run a special themed promotion that ties in with the event.
5. Attend Trade/Road Shows
In many ways, attending roadshows is a rather old fashioned idea. The studies show that it works, however, because thousands of people continue to flock to these events every year. They are a great opportunity to increase brand exposure and get talking to people who may never have known about your business otherwise.
6. Hand Out Cool Freebies
Handing out free stuff is a tried and tested way to capture the eye of shoppers. Whether it is a branded pen, keyring, or mug; people love free treats. If you are trying to boost foot traffic, you could set up a ‘chat’ stall somewhere close to the store. That way, you can invite shoppers to come by and find out a little about the business – in exchange for a freebie, of course.
Why Passion is the Key to Success
Whatever your strategy, whether it is offering introductory discounts or having fun with photo booths, you need to fill it with passion. If you are excited about the idea, the customers will be too. So, think carefully about the kinds of things that you’d enjoy setting up and delivering to shoppers. If your heart isn’t in a dour street survey, get rid of it and move towards something more colourful and creative.
