Introduction
If you’re looking to increase foot traffic to your independently owned pet supply business, it can be a challenge. To capture the hearts (and wallets) of the many pet parents in your community, try some of these tips to help you stand out in the crowd.
Offer Irresistible Sales and Specials
When foot traffic is slow, offering impromptu sales or irresistible specials can be a great way to attract customers to your pet supply store. Consider providing discounts, free upgrades, or complimentary treats to entice pet parents. Promote these offers through social media, email blasts, or creative sidewalk signs to get the word out and draw people in.
Enhance In-Store Adoption Events
To maximize the impact of your in-store adoption events, think of creative ways to promote them, such as posting pet profiles on social media before the event to generate excitement. Consider hosting these events more frequently and ensure every pet adopter leaves with a celebratory social media share and a welcome packet filled with money-saving coupons to encourage them to restock on pet supplies.
Host Exclusive Services for Busy Pet Parents
Offer exclusive, one-off services for busy pet parents at your pet supply store. Collaborate with local veterinary clinics, groomers, and other animal professionals to provide in-store clinics such as kitty pedicures, doggie spas, and microchipping sessions. By offering convenient services, you make it easier for pet owners to care for their animals while visiting your store.
Organize Informative Sessions by Local Experts
Arrange informative sessions at your pet supply store by inviting local animal experts to share their knowledge with pet parents. These sessions can be both educational and entertaining, covering topics such as therapy animal programs, dog obedience classes, and more. By providing valuable information, you not only engage customers but also create a community of pet lovers.
Tailor Marketing to Life Changes
Customize your marketing strategies to target customers going through life changes. For instance, focus on individuals who have recently moved to a new home by sending them personalized mailers and coupons. Additionally, ensure that your store is easily accessible online, with accurate information on search engines and review sites. By adapting your marketing efforts to suit different life transitions, you can attract a diverse range of customers to your store.
Utilize Social Media for Promotion
Maximize the potential of social media platforms to promote your pet supply store. Create engaging posts about special offers, events, and new products to attract pet owners in your community. Interact with your followers, respond to comments, and share user-generated content to foster a sense of community and loyalty.
Optimize Online Presence for Visibility
Ensure that your pet supply store can be easily found online by optimizing its online presence. Update information on search engines and business review sites, including accurate store hours and appealing photos. Encourage satisfied customers to leave positive reviews and engage with your online audience through newsletters and promotions.
Utilize Email Marketing for Customer Engagement
Build a strong email list to engage with both new and existing customers. Use email marketing to keep customers informed about upcoming events, promotions, and classes at your store. Share fun and relevant content like customer-submitted pet photos to create a personal connection with your audience and drive repeat visits.
Implement a Customer Loyalty Program
Rewarding people for returning and buying your products is a great way to keep that foot traffic going. These programs can attract new customers, boost retention and increase spending — especially when these generate offers that are relevant to their pet care needs.
Celebrate with Engaging Store Events
Find a reason to host a party. It can be your store’s anniversary, a tie-in to a neighborhood festival or the dog days of summer. When you offer treats, games, and giveaways, you’ll have the perfect trifecta for pet families to get out and have fun together — and meet like-minded people. Offer fun events, like a doggy photo booth, costume contests, obstacle courses, and paw imprints that can be taken home. Be sure and encourage local organizations and suppliers to set up a booth. If they can’t send a representative, they may have great samples to share for giveaways.