If you run a retail store, getting people through the door is one of the biggest challenges you face. You’re up against a lot of competition from online retailers as well as other stores. Finding ways to capture people’s attention as they walk past is crucial because you rely on foot traffic to survive. Unfortunately, that’s often easier said than done. Many retail businesses find that they have enough regular customers to survive, but they are unable to thrive and grow because they’re not catching enough casual customers on their way past. If you find yourself in this position, here are some simple ways to catch people’s attention.
Give Out Some Freebies
Free items are a great way to get people into your store. Depending on what you’re selling, it can be as simple as giving out cookies or drinks at the door on weekends. People will enter just to redeem their free gift and then browse around while they eat or drink. You should also give out branded items to help spread the word and build a bit of a buzz in the local area. For example, you could get yourself a button maker and create a load of buttons with your logo on. It’s only a small gift but you’d be surprised how much difference the offer of something free can do. Just make sure that you’re not spending too much money on freebies or it’s not worthwhile.
Improve Your Window Displays
If you don’t put enough effort into the way you decorate your store it will fade into the background. You should be putting on an attractive window display whenever possible because it will catch people’s attention, even if they’re just walking past. Always put your best products front and center and use promotions and deals to get people interested. Keep the window displays regularly updated and make sure that they look great every time someone passes by.
Host Events
Nothing attracts people like a great event. If you can put on some kind of public show or entertainment, you’ll get a lot more foot traffic passing through the door. You could also host giveaways from time to time which will encourage customers to check out what’s in stock at your store. A few small prizes aren’t going to cost very much but they’re a great way to bring people in and showcase your products at the same time.
Keep A Queue Outside
People are always intrigued by a store if there is a big queue outside. When it’s a little busy, you should consider limiting the number of people in the store and keeping a small queue. This will give the impression that there’s something amazing on sale inside and people will stop to see what the fuss is all about. However, you need to be careful with this strategy because people will get fed up if you make them wait for too long.
Catching the attention of people when they walk past your store is key to your success, but it can be difficult. If people keep passing by without taking any notice, try some of these simple tips and tricks.
