With visitor season around the corner, it’s crucial for small businesses to gear up and present their best front. This bustling period offers a golden opportunity to attract new customers, increase sales, and build long-term loyalty.

Clean Store Fronts
First impressions matter. A clean, well -maintained storefront invites visitors in and sets a tone for their shopping experience. It’s not just about cleanliness; it’s about showing pride in your business and respect for your customers. Regular maintenance, such as washing windows, sweeping sidewalks, and ensuring signage is clear and visible, goes a long way in creating an inviting atmosphere.

Decorated Windows
Window displays are your silent salesperson. They tell a story, showcase what’s unique about your brand, and, most importantly, grab passersby’s attention. Seasonal decorations that reflect the current holiday or theme can make your store seem lively and in tune with customers’ mood. A well-thought-out window display can be the deciding factor for potential customers pondering whether to step inside.

Well-Stocked Products
Ensuring your shelves are well stocked with a variety of products is essential during the visitor season. This not only caters to the increased foot traffic but also helps in meeting the diverse needs and preferences of shoppers. The Olive Vault, for example, ensures its inventory is full and presents a wide range of options, maximizing the chances of visitors finding exactly what they want.

Consistent Hours
Visitors on tight schedules appreciate consistency. Posting clear, consistent hours—and sticking to them—signals reliability to customers. It helps in planning their visits and builds trust in your business operations. Unpredictable hours can lead to missed opportunities and frustrated potential customers.

Friendly Staff
The importance of having friendly, knowledgeable staff cannot be overstated. Training your team to greet visitors warmly, offer assistance, and share knowledge about your products enhances the shopping experience and can differentiate your business from competitors. Personalized service increases customer satisfaction and fosters a welcoming environment that encourages repeat visits.

Collaboration with Other Businesses
Collaboration is a powerful tool for small businesses looking to thrive during the tourist season. By partnering with nearby businesses, you can create joint marketing efforts, share customer foot traffic, and organize events or promotions that benefit all involved. Cooperative strategies expand your reach and create a vibrant, interconnected community that appeals to visitors.

Success Story: The Olive Vault
The Olive Vault provides an exemplary case of how employing these strategies can significantly benefit a small business during peak visitor seasons. By maintaining an immaculate storefront, captivating window displays, and a broad selection of products, The Olive Vault has become a must-visit destination in the area. Plan your visit to The Olive Vault, located at 1247 Liberty Street in Franklin.

Pictured: Tammy & David Bible, Owner

This article was published in the Venango Chamber’s May 2024 VenangoWorks! Newsletter.