Sweet Shop’s Recession Approach Helps You Sell

May 21, 2008 · Filed Under Sales and Marketing · Comment 

A chocolate shop’s revenue down 12 percent from last year’s sales due to the economy?

I was a bit surprised to read about this in Crain’s New York Business. It proves that no product, no matter how delicious, is recession proof.

What did the owner do to curtail the drop?

“…the entrepreneur took action recently, dispatching his staff to nearby corners to hand out coupons offering free hot chocolate or a piece of candy. The results: sweet. Store sales rose 20 percent after each coupon blitz.”

The shop’s owner realizes that short-term solutions don’t last, so he’s considering other ways to boost business.

This situation is similar to what you may be facing. If you own a store, a similar street corner coupon distribution may introduce new people to your gifts and baskets and create a healthy revenue boost (learn if your town requires a permit for street promotions). But what if you don’t own a shop and are concerned about sales?

  • Find events to display and get buzz about your gift baskets. Spring activities, auctions, and other affairs are on every business and charitable event calendar. It’s the same type of calendar you create for yourself, as shown here. Get involved and promote your goods.

  • Father’s Day is almost here. Contact the local media with your expert advice on how giving dad more than a necktie will put a smile on his face. This article provides Dad’s day ideas.

    • You may not be a well-financed chocolatier with a store in New York City, but their sales solutions can quickly be molded into profitable ideas that put your gift baskets into customers’ hands.

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