If you run a brick-and-mortar business (or you’re thinking of opening a storefront), you’ll probably face somewhat stiff competition from eCommerce or online-only brands. Before you can convert in-person visitors into loyal customers, you have to entice them to take a peek inside your store in the first place.
How do you reel in window shoppers, errand runners, and passersby? In this guide, we’re breaking down some tips for attracting visitors to your store — like revamping your signage, investing in marketing efforts, and creating an irresistible interior space.
Make your signage pop
Your signage is one of the most critical elements of your storefront. Whether you have a flashing marquee at your disposal or you’re limited to window decals only, an outstanding sign is key to making a good first impression with in-person visitors.
Some hallmarks of great, eye-catching signage include:
- Proper sizing – No matter your available space for signage, use it to its full potential. Your sign should be big enough to be legible from the street — and, ideally, to passing cars.
- Unique branding – Using one-of-a-kind visual assets (like your logo or custom font) will help you stand out from the crowd and establish your brand’s identity before customers ever set foot in your store.
- Brand colors – If you have a signature company color (or a few), incorporate it into your signage.
Offer a sale or promotion
Sales and promotions are excellent ways to attract new visitors and entice past customers to make repeat purchases.
While you can offer a blanket discount — like 10% off all items — you can also get creative with sale events. Consider offering:
- A free gift (like a small, branded merch item) with every purchase
- A giveaway for a free product or service
- Double rewards points on specific items or for a limited time
The promise of savings, a free gift, or loyalty rewards can help you draw in foot traffic from both first-time shoppers and loyal clients.
Host an event
Hosting a special event is perhaps one of the best ways to invite people into your store. Whether you host an educational event (like a workshop), an entertainment experience (like live music), or a holiday celebration (like a Fourth of July barbecue), offering customers an opportunity to have some fun can go a long way.
As you organize your event, don’t forget about:
- Food and drinks – Consider catering appetizers and light refreshments.
- Logistics – Make sure there’s ample parking for visitors.
- Invitations – Spread the word with e-vites or a social media ad.
Optimize your social media efforts
Even though social media is digital, you can still leverage it to market your brick-and-mortar business. While social media advertising is a massive topic, here are some quick tips for using social media to your advantage:
- Diversify your presence – Use multiple platforms to reach a variety of audiences.
- Use your branded materials – Incorporate your logo or custom branding images whenever possible.
- Engage with users – Respond to comments and DMs to build strong relationships with followers.
Test out a new marketing channel
Social media is only one facet of digital marketing; don’t be afraid to test out the latest and greatest advertising technologies to try to attract customers to your store. If you haven’t yet, test out a digital marketing channel like:
- SMS marketing – SMS advertising (sometimes called text message marketing) can help you meet potential customers where they already are — on their phones. Create snappy messages with enticing calls to action, like “Show us this text at checkout to save 10%.”
- Email marketing – While marketing texts should be short-form, you can use email marketing to send slightly longer messages to clients. Email marketing can be especially impactful for brick-and-mortar brands that also offer online shopping.
Invest in interiors
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Once you do persuade people to visit your store, what will they see when they come in?
Whether you opt for maximalist decor (by using wall art, fun fabrics, or statement furniture) or a peaceful ambiance (with indoor plants, mood lighting, or candles), your interiors can make or break your customers’ in-store experiences.
While your signage and marketing efforts will get customers in the door, your interior vibe will convince them to stick around and browse.
Attract site visitors with signage, marketing, and decor
Sign Designed by Radikal Neon®
Attracting site visitors is all about convincing them that your in-person store can offer something special—a unique brand personality, a fun experience, or even just a peaceful shopping experience.
Custom neon signs from designers like Radikal Neon® can help you achieve all of the above and more. When it comes to creating a neon sign that resonates with customers, Radikal Neon® President Tom Numan says, “We take you and your vision seriously. Your imagination is your only limit.”
Whether you add a custom neon sign to your space, amp up the ambiance, or master your marketing, appealing to window shoppers and passersby is key to increasing your in-store traffic. It’s time to take your business to the next level.
