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Retail outlets that serve communities can reap immense benefits from a well-thought-out, smartly executed, marketing drive. However, they need to employ tactics that are suited to the reality in which they operate. That’s why we recommend an offline approach in this instance. In this article, we’ll talk about 6 marketing tips for smaller stores that don’t (necessarily) involve going online.
Ask for Referrals
This is especially effective when you’ve only just opened a shop. Ask people who patronize you to tell their contacts about your store. Their contacts in this case could be neighbours or friends who live close by. It’s easier to request referrals when your customers are satisfied with your service. So, make it a priority to meet their needs as swiftly and courteously as you can. It’ll pay off handsomely over time.Put Up Billboards and Signposts
Make it easier for anyone to find your store by putting up billboards and signposts for it. These should indicate what your store is and what it does, contain contact details, and provide directions for locating the business. Visitors who want to shop in your neighbourhood will find the signposts helpful, and you’ll attract sales as a result—a win for both parties involved.Sign up for the Connect Nigeria daily newsletter
Distribute Pamphlets
If you’re a local store, pamphlets are potentially one of the better offline marketing strategies at your disposal. A well-designed pamphlet will combine pleasant aesthetics and all the necessary information about your store and what it sells. It could be a big draw for foot traffic, especially when it’s handed to people who live within and around your district.Give Out Seasonal Cards
Most of your customers will appreciate it if you give them your good wishes on a major holiday. And they’ll be doubly impressed if you hand them a seasonal card that expresses your goodwill. This could be a hit at Christmas, but it might also have a positive effect on any other major holiday.Explore Guerilla Marketing
Guerilla marketing involves using surprising tactics to draw the public’s attention to your business. Examples include putting up temporary artwork that promotes your business by the side of a major road; using hidden projections to broadcast your message on a wall; creating unique photo opportunities with interesting displays; or organising a publicity stunt. The great thing about these is that they’ll cost you very little, and generate a buzz about your store.Give Gifts
You may give gifts to loyal customers or random patrons on special days. News of your offering could then spread via word of mouth, causing more people than usual to shop at your store. In the medium to long run, many of those people who were attracted by your promo will stick with you—if you treat them well enough.Register to attend the CN Business Mixer
Final Words
Marketing isn’t just something that big businesses do. It‘s a tool that smaller enterprises can wield to their advantage. We have discussed some of the most effective offline marketing strategies for neighbourhood stores. If you run one, you should apply the tips we’ve shared here to get your business on the path to sustained growth.Got a suggestion? Contact us: editor@connectnigeria.com
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