During an economic recession, the retail industry has taken a big hit as customers simply don’t have as much discretionary income as they used to˳ Whether your shoe store is part of a large chain or is just a small independent retailer, you should always be on the lookout for new, interesting marketing ideas that can stimulate business˳ Here are some great ways to put your best foot forward˳
- In-store events– Customers need to know the benefits of your shoes, be it that they are edgy and fashionable or that they provide a comfortable walking experience˳ Hosting an in-store event like a fashion show or a teaching session will not only generate buzz and awareness for your store, but also sell a lot of shoes! Have your featured products fully-visible using a vertical banner or even a window cling so customers know which shoes they’re going to learn about˳
- Loyalty cards– Most women have a shoe fetish, so create a loyalty program that keeps her coming back for more shoes˳ This could be a punch card or you could even use a computer-tracking system˳ After a certain amount of pairs purchased, your customer will receive a free (or at least discounted) pair˳ Not only do you sell more shoes, but you also retain loyal customers˳
- Shoe care– A great way to make your store more marketable is by offering shoe care services such as shining, stretching, and even minor repair˳ If you really want to offer a first-class experience, offer complimentary shoe repair services˳ You probably won’t be able to do this in-store, but set-up an agreement with a local shoe hospital or cobbler˳ Your client will appreciate the VIP treatment, and this ensures they’ll visit your store at least twice (once to drop off the shoes and again to pick them up)˳ Odds are they’ll find a new pair in at least one of those visits˳ Display vinyl decals at your cash wraps letting customers know these special services you offer, and make sure your sales team is mentioning it as well˳
- Sponsorship/donation– Sponsoring local events is a great way to build a positive business reputation˳ In exchange, you’re usually able to advertise at these events with a vinyl banner or in the program˳ Another unique idea is to create a shoe-donation program˳ Work with charity groups such as the Salvation Army to donate a pair of shoes for every X amount you sell˳ This is a huge PR boost and makes your business socially-responsible˳ It has certainly worked for TOMS˳
- Family bundles– If you are a shoe store that caters to all customers (men, women, and children), create a family bundle package˳ Offer a special discount when customers buy a pair of shoes for every member of the family, or even have a buy one-get one special˳ You’re a one-stop shop for the family, but it may take a special deal for customers to realize that˳
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