Keep the store clean and organized for repeat business.
Running a thrift store is a challenging endeavor, one that requires time, effort and patience. Bringing customers to your store may prove to be a difficult task, but with the proper marketing strategies and resources, you will have a thrift store that people in your community talk about and tell their friends about.
Promotions
Have regular in-store promotions to bring in more customers. Hold a monthly raffle by having each customer put in a business card into a large bowl on the counter. Draw one card every month to give away a gift certificate to your store. Another way to do a raffle is to have small sheets of paper and pencils for each customer write her name and phone number and put it into the bowl to be drawn once a month. Offer promotions online for first-time customers to get a discount, which you can announce on social media sites.
Clearance and Sales
Sales and clearances bring in customers much more than a typical shopping day. Offer clearances of a certain percentage off items, or a two-for-one deal. Another way to do a clearance is to give a certain dollar amount off of a large purchase such as $10 off if they spend $50 or $100 in the store. If you send out a newsletter, include a 10 percent off coupon in each newsletter; this is another way to encourage customers to sign up for your newsletter.
Public Relations
Get the public involved in advertising your store. Contact local TV or newspapers to discuss why your store should be mentioned. These may include you donating a percentage of your sales to a charity, having a special sale or promotion, how your store helps the community or how shopping at thrift stores is another way of going green and protecting the environment.
Community Growth
There are many marketing strategies for promotion your store right in your own community. Choose a local charity to donate used clothing to that not only helps out others but gets people aware of your store. Ask businesses near you to participate in a promotion where if you spend a certain amount at one store, you get a discount at another store nearby. Have a party or gathering with several businesses in your communities where you offer food and drinks, raffles and giveaways.
Word of Mouth
The fastest and most efficient way to get customers into your store is by word of mouth. Treat your customers with professionalism and use excellent customer service. Keep your store clean and well-organized to help customers find what they are looking for. Display business cards on the counter for customers to take at will and hand to their friends and family. You might also offer a discount for customer referrals to your store.
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