posted on April 2, 2001 02:21:18 PM
Contact your local radio station. My father has owned a small photography store for over 25 years in a small town. He finds that radio advertising is the most cost-effective way to promote his business. Oftentimes radio stations will do remote broadcasts on location to promote new stores. Something like that could be great for a grand opening! Hope that helps!
posted on April 2, 2001 02:55:21 PM
Carole:
Your first question to ask yourself is, "who are my target customers?"...(assuming it's Mom's....)...and where and how do you reach mom's? (day care bulletin boards, church boards, school newspapers/bulletins, grocery store/local pharmacy/post office bulletin boards...those are all FREE)....
You may have local family related newspaper/shoppers to advertise in....and to build initial foot traffic make sure your advertisement includes a coupon (so you can judge effectiveness of your advertising and who it reaches) that is good for % off on something or give something away for free just to get people in the door.....
Make sure your ebay username and email address is on your store's business cards, and encourage shoppers to check out your ebay auctions (cross promote store w/ebay).
As for making flyers...simple programs like MS Publisher, even a simple MS Word program can make a plain type flyer....or go to KINKOS and ask for help (but it will cost you).....
Just remember...it's not the steak that draws in the customer...it's the "sizzle"....give em a reason to want to come by, and then make sure you are prepared to deliver A1 customer service and products.
posted on April 2, 2001 04:49:40 PM
Thanks!
I had thought of the radio..if it isn't too much? I know an outlet store had a popular radio station there and pizza give away and they appeared to do a lot of business.
Maybe I'll call them...
Sizzle...yep...now I have to find out HOW to get sizzle?
If you are in such a small population you will find that "word of mouth" will be your best advertising. As long as your prices are reasonable and your customer service is great the word will spread very quickly.
Radio advertising is quite expensive where I live and we found that many people arrive more-so for the free give-a-ways than for the actual product the store is selling. Often we get the biggest response with an ad in the Classified For Sale sections of local newspapers.
If you do up a flyer for promotions etc. you may be able to distribute them through your local post office for a fee? It wouldn't hurt to ask. You can also do flyers that you add to people's bags when they make a purchase or have some by the door for people to take if they choose.
Some companies will print your store name on pens very reasonably and they can be given away with purchases and it is something that people tend to use and you can hope that your name is a reminder for them to shop at your business.
posted on April 2, 2001 05:28:36 PM
...... and don't forget to have your local newspaper do a press release about you and your new store! Give them a couple of photos and it's a great form of free advertising!
Also, if you have AOL there are great message boards there pertaining to marketing with lots of useful information.
posted on April 2, 2001 07:17:23 PM
Hi IMLDS2.....if you need help with graphic designs, logos, etc., I'd be more than happy to help you out (no charge!)
