As the holiday season rolls around, retail businesses everywhere are preparing for all the hustle and bustle that comes along with it. This year, consumer and market trends will drive more customers to resale stores than ever.
With sustainability as a top focus, more customers are searching for environmentally-friendly gifts - and what better way to “go green” and spread holiday cheer than by shopping resale?
From inventory to your team, store design, community and marketing, Winmark - the Resale Company® is proud to share our top five tips to prepare for the busy holiday shopping season:
Highlight Your Affordable, Sustainable Inventory
As other retail stores face supply chain shortages, our Play It Again Sports®, Plato’s Closet®, Once Upon A Child®, Music Go Round® and Style Encore® franchisees are equipped with everything they need to offer affordable, gently used items to customers.
As part of our training process and ongoing support, all franchisees learn about the latest trends, our proprietary technology and inventory management and planning.
Throughout our resale stores, over 432,000 items are recycled per day and, with inflation on the rise, more customers are looking for quality, budget-friendly gifts for their loved ones.
The Winmark team also provides marketing templates and resources so you’ll have everything you need to draw customers in this holiday season!
Deck the Halls
Of course, it wouldn’t be the holidays without some decorations! Keep spirits merry and bright by dressing up your store for the season - from your front door to your displays.
Another way to spread holiday cheer is to give back to your community by partnering with a local charity or hosting a fundraiser.
Create an extra ‘holly jolly” customer experience by adding some holiday music and offer added convenience to your customers with a gift wrapping option.
You can also run a holiday gift card promotion as an incentive for customers to give the gift of resale this holiday season!
Make the Most of Your Online Presence
Of course, you’re going to want to show off your products and spirited store! Share festive photos and videos on your social media pages, and take your Facebook or Instagram game to the next level by going “live” to give a tour of your store and a “sneak peek” of your inventory.
Engage your followers through stories with thoughtful prompts, such as posting two gifts side by side and asking, “This or that?” You can also highlight your team by posting a video of them answering short prompts such as, “What is your favorite part of the holiday season?”
Motivate Your Team
Speaking of your team, you’ll want to come up with some incentives and ways to motivate them through the busiest season of the year. Employee recognition programs are key to satisfaction and overall morale.
Be sure you’re hiring the right people - those who are truly passionate about your store’s products and are excited to serve your customers. Some ways to recognize hard-working employees include hosting a small holiday party for your team, bringing in some treats, creating an “Employee of the Month” program and providing them with a small token of appreciation, such as a greeting or gift card, to thank them for their dedication.
Celebrate With Your Community
Finally, what better way to celebrate the holidays than with your loyal customers and community? Consider participating in, sponsoring and hosting some holiday events.
‘Tis the season of giving and the holiday season is the perfect time for you and your team to give back. One great way to do this is by hosting a fundraiser or food drive.
Although this time of year may be busy as ever, be sure to express gratitude and truly enjoy this holiday season and all it has to offer!
Get into the holiday spirit with an exciting, new business adventure! Click here to learn more about opening a Winmark resale store in your area!
