subject: 4 Great Ways to Locate Potential New Shoppers [print this page] 4 Great Ways to Locate Potential New Shoppers
Long-term success with dollar stores requires continual increases in sales while costs are coming down. As the challenge of increasing sales is scrutinized there are three clear options. Those running a dollar store can generate more new prospective shopper traffic, current shoppers can return more frequently, or all shoppers can on average spend more money on each purchase. In this article I will focus on generating more first-time shoppers. Read on for 4 great ways to locate potential new shoppers.
#1) Help others within your community. Many local organizations are in need of donations and participation. There is no better way to gain new customer traffic than to help others? Provide small price reductions or donate needed products to area charities. Your store will receive considerable attention as a result. And do not forget the local schools. A surefire way to gain attention is by helping local schools - and you are doing a good thing for your community as well.
#2) Current customers are the best source for new customers. What better way to achieve success than to have your existing customers telling everyone they know all about the great dollar store that just opened down the block? Establish that as your primary goal. Make every shopper feel special by providing great customer service, carrying the products they need, and making every trip to your store a special experience. The word will get out.
#3) Others in the community. Success with dollar stores requires that those who live in your neighborhood know about your store and then come in to see more. Homeowners and renters within your local area need to find out about your store. A well-written flyer mailed to those within your shopping area can mean more new traffic for your business. It does not need to be an expensive flyer, just one that attracts attention when it arrives. Consider adding an incentive such as a free item, a purchase discount, or entrance form for a drawing to bring shoppers in for their first visit.
#4) Other businesses within your shopping area. Success with dollar stores requires that you get out and meet the surrounding businesses in your local area. Schedule a little time every week to stop by and introduce yourself to every business in the area. Make sure to include your competitors; they too can often refer shoppers for items they don't have currently in-stock.
