One of the biggest challenges facing everyone who wishes to own a dollar store is exactly how to build store sales without going broke in the process. While there are many fairly costly options, few low-cost options seem like they would be worth the time and expense to implement. After all, what good does it do to spend hundreds or even thousands of dollars on advertising and marketing if the results dont grow dollar store profits beyond the costs involved? Well there are some proven ultra-low cost marketing options that do get results. If youd like to know more, then read on. In this article I present 5 proven low-cost marketing strategies when you own a dollar store.
Strategy #1 Join a local business group. If you own a dollar store youll discover networking with other local business owners and managers can provide rewards beyond your wildest dreams. Sure it takes time to attend meetings and you must be willing to mingle and get to know others, but the results can be remarkable. Join only one group to start. As you become familiar with that groups participants you might add another business group to the mix.
Strategy #2 Establish a marketing exchange with local businesses. Get out there and meet your neighboring business owners. Once again a little time is required. However as you introduce yourself and exchange business cards youll soon meet others who also desire to build their businesses. Work out an exchange where each business helps the other by providing flyers or other promotional materials. Youll gain new shoppers, sales and dollar store profits.
Strategy #3 Turn you employees into sign-holders during slow times. One of the biggest challenges for those who own a dollar store is staffing at the right levels. Why not add a marketing activity so employees can help you build sales and dollar store profits during slow times? Have an inexpensive sign made for your business and let an employee hold that sign so it can be seen by passing traffic. Youll quickly have a store filled with first-time shoppers. Be sure to check local ordinances to make sure this can be done in your locality before you start.
Strategy #4 Establish discount programs for near-by churches. This idea costs little more than time unless the churches choose to take advantage of the discount offer. For churches with food closets and other aid for those in-need, now is a time for most when theres huge demand and fewer contributions. Churches will likely be looking for grocery items and everyday consumables first. Imagine the traffic when your generosity is announced during a service.
Strategy #5 Add upcoming sale inserts into t-shirt bags used to package all sales. Save your advertising dollars by publicizing upcoming events on inserts you place in bags customers receive with their purchases. While some advertising and promotion is still advisable, this strategy can reduce your total cost and will still generate the traffic, sales and dollar store profits you seek when you own a dollar store.
To your dollar store success!