In-Store Event Ideas to Draw in Customers
by Carrie Hinkel on February 21st, 2008
One way to bring customers into your store is by hosting an in-store event. You’ll be able to show off your newest products or services, or just open up your store to new customers. It doesn’t matter what kind of store you have, or whether you sell products or services, an in-store event can work wonders for any kind of business.
Making sure your event runs smoothly
Planning an in-store event takes time; for a first-time event, start planning at least three months in advance. Start by making a list of what type of events would be most appealing to your target market. Ask employees and friends for their opinions and choose an event that’s both welcoming and unintimidating. Then, if necessary, designate an area of the store where customers and employees can socialize, discuss new products, etc. You may need to think about moving some displays or furniture around before the event so that there is enough room for the extra visitors.
Once your event idea is planned out it will be time to advertise! Make flyers and post them in your store windows and on community bulletin boards and hand them out to customers. Place advertisements in local newspapers and possibly on the radio too. Contact local news publications to get your event profiled. Get the word out to as many people as you can - including friends and family members. Be sure to have extra employees on hand to help you host the event.
In-store event ideas for different kinds of businesses.
Tea shop - A tea tasting event not only brings new customers into your store, it allows visitors to sample your newest and finest teas and get a close-up look at your tea sets and accessories. You might even consider teaming up with a local bakery and offering their cookies or pastries for your visitors to nibble on - it will lower the cost of your event and give another local business free advertising.
Beauty products store - If your store sells things like facial masks, exfoliators and massage oils, why not host a “Mini Spa Night” or “Girls Night Out” at your store? Customers can sample some of your products and perhaps learn a beauty secret or two! Offer free massages or expert hair and makeup consultations.
Health food store - Your customers are interested in taking care of their bodies, so why not offer a mini class on something they may want to learn more about, like “The 10 Most Powerful Super Foods - And How to Incorporate Them in Your Diet”. You could have a cooking demonstration, offer samples on some of the foods, provide recipes and even hand out coupons.
These are just a few ideas to get you thinking, but literally any business can host an in-store event. The most important thing to keep in mind is your customers: what would they be interested in? Be sure to run your ideas past several friends, family members and employees before committing to a particular event. You want to be certain that your event will appeal to a large portion of your customer base. Hosting an in-store event can be lots of fun, and will allow you to get to know your customers on a more friendly basis. Good luck!