Category: marketing

Brick-and-Mortar Retail Stores

• Design eye-catching window displays. Use creative holiday décor—especially pieces that include movement—to attract attention. Feature new or seasonal merchandise and rotate displays every week or two to keep things fresh.
• Showcase your bestsellers. Include a “Christmas Wish List” in your window with products ranging from your most affordable to your premium items to show that you have gifts for every budget.
• Add digital displays. Use a small screen or slideshow to highlight featured products and inform potential customers of your inventory even when your store is closed.
• Create a festive atmosphere. Holiday music and simple refreshments—such as hot cider, coffee, or cookies—encourage shoppers to linger.
• Offer samples. If you sell food products, let customers taste-test items before buying.
• Provide seating. A comfortable spot for companions of shoppers can extend how long customers browse.
• Host exclusive experiences. Reward loyal customers with special early-access shopping events or trunk shows.
• Plan special appearances. Invite Santa or a local musician to entertain shoppers and bring in more foot traffic.
• Provide gift-wrapping services. Partner with a local school or club to offer gift wrapping as a fundraiser.
• Give back. Donate a portion of profits to a local charity and promote this partnership in your advertising and in-store signage.
• Highlight local products. Share the stories of your local suppliers with framed displays or flyers near their merchandise.

Restaurants

• Offer limited-time holiday menus with festive entrées, desserts, and beverages.
• Collaborate with nearby businesses. Partner with local retailers to host early shopping breakfasts or special dining-and-shopping packages.
• Support local artisans. Allow artists or craftspeople to display and sell their items in your waiting area.
• Create relaxation packages. Partner with a nearby spa for a “break from the holiday hustle” special, or offer a couples’ package that includes a massage or carriage ride.
• Offer holiday catering or “take-and-heat” meals for customers who want festive food without the work.
• Host themed events. Plan fun nights like “Ugly Sweater Night” or “Grinch Night,” and reward participants with a free appetizer or dessert.
• Give back to the community. Support toy drives or local charities and reward customers who participate with discounts or free items.
• Feature live entertainment. Invite local musicians or choir groups to perform during the season.

Online Shopping Sites

• Run strategic promotions. Announce limited-time offers on your social media platforms and create urgency with countdowns or flash sales.
• Engage your customers. Use email campaigns to promote new products and upcoming specials.
• Add festive website elements. Incorporate holiday-themed banners, animations, or gentle falling snow to create a seasonal feel that keeps shoppers on your site longer.
• Simplify purchasing. Offer free shipping, easy returns, and multiple payment options—including digital wallets—to reduce purchase hesitation.
• Bundle gifts. Create curated gift sets and lists organized by price point, recipient, or interest.
• Encourage return visits. Send special discounts to first-time buyers or reminders to customers who left items in their cart.

Final Thoughts

These strategies can help attract shoppers to your store, restaurant, or website—and keep them engaged once they arrive. Be creative, offer variety, and maintain a welcoming atmosphere. When your business feels festive and customer-focused, you’ll not only increase holiday sales but also build long-term loyalty that lasts well beyond the season.