The holiday season may feel like months away, but savvy retailers know the value of starting early. Trends are evolving, and businesses that plan ahead are far more likely to succeed. For example, Halloween sales are moving earlier every year. In fact, since 2019, peak sales have moved from late September to mid-August, with major retailers like Home Depot and Lowe’s leading the way by releasing items as early as April.
Try These Two Tactics to Drive Early Small Business Holiday Sales
As sales trends shift, small businesses must adapt their strategies to align with these new buying patterns. Try these two tactics to drive sales so you don't miss out on these early shoppers.
Leverage Historical Data for Accurate Forecasting
Historical sales data is one of the most valuable tools in your business toolbox, especially during the busy holiday season.
Reviewing past traffic patterns and purchase volumes allows you to predict demand and prepare accordingly. For instance, if last year's data shows a spike in traffic during mid-November, you’ll know to stock up on inventory and hire extra help well in advance. This proactive approach prevents scrambling and ensures you're ready for the holiday rush.
Additionally, understanding your customers' habits can help you decide when to launch promotions or new product lines to capture early-bird shoppers before the competition does.
Offer Targeted Promotions for Customer Engagement
Generic holiday discounts like "20% off everything" won’t cut it anymore.
Instead, create tailored promotions for loyal customers and subscribers. Personalized deals not only encourage repeat purchases but also make your customers feel valued and understood.
Rather than broad discounts, offering exclusive deals to returning customers or those who opt into your mailing list adds a personal touch to your marketing. This approach helps build stronger relationships and encourages word-of-mouth promotion, which can be a powerful tool during the holiday season.
Take Action Today for a Successful Holiday Season
The holiday season is no longer a distant event; it’s happening now, with trends pushing sales earlier every year.
By leveraging historical data and crafting targeted promotions, you’ll be well-prepared to meet customer demand and make the most of the busiest shopping season.
Want help getting your print marketing materials ready for the holidays? Contact our team today to create custom designs and promotions that stand out from the competition.
