Small Retailer Holiday Ideas

As we approach the holiday season again all the big box stores and corporate chains are trying to undersell their competition and have the earliest sales. They entice customers with low prices and limited availability. The profit margin is low so they have to sell more to come out ahead. They spend mega-dollars on advertising to lure shoppers into their stores and to their websites. The same old thing year after year and for some it doesn't even pay off. They think ONLY the lowest price will get the sale.

But why should a small business retailer or online seller join this madness and try to compete for super low profits or any at all. The big stores aren't going to let you win anyway, they will just lower prices again, maybe below your cost. Why not fight back with something value-added that others are not offering instead of just low prices. Find something your customers want (ask them!) and offer if along with a fair price. There is an old saying that if everything else is equal, people just buy the lowest price. Add value so it won't be equal.

Don't let your businees be "just equal", make it offer more with a smile and provide the added service that can't be found elsewhere. You won't need to spend big bucks on advertising because you will receive more valuable Word-of-Mouth publicity. Be involved in your target market community and the word will spread quickly. And remember these happy and satisfied customers will be repeat business after the holidays!
Barry is a business and franchise coach who ha 6 published books on business. www.idealetter.com