It’s summertime, and the livin’ is easy, right? Not really. Many businesses struggle with summer sales strategies and getting people in the door and buying. With costs high, most customers are looking for inexpensive ideas and thinking twice before spending money.
Even with the economic woes, warmer weather and longer days present unique opportunities for Alameda’s businesses to thrive.
Summer Sunshine for Your Business
Here are a few tips to maximize your summer potential:
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Embrace the Outdoor Vibe. Alameda’s beautiful waterfront and parks become a magnet for activity in the summer. If you have the space, consider expanding your services outdoors. Set up a sidewalk sale, host a pop-up shop in a local park, or even partner with a nearby business to create a joint outdoor event. If that’s not allowed in your area, consider stationing an employee outside of your business to bring people in. Tasty treats are a great way to do this but even conversation can drive interest.
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Cater to Summer Needs. Think about the specific needs of your customers during the summer. Are they looking for refreshing drinks, lightweight clothing, or outdoor gear? Tailor your inventory and marketing messages to meet these demands. Maybe they’re looking for free activities for the kids. How can you provide something they need to bring them in?
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Get Festive with Events: Summer is packed with holidays and local festivals. Participate in community events around Alameda, sponsor a local team, or host a themed summer party or DIY project demo. These activities can create a buzz around your business and attract new customers.
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Partner Up: Collaboration is key to success in any season, but especially in the summer when more visitors are in town. Consider partnering with a complementary business for a joint promotion or offering package deals that combine your products or services. Our day travelers are likely looking for things to do and you and your partners can help.
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Leverage Social Media: Summer is a highly visual season, perfect for sharing eye-catching photos and videos on social media. People also love to post their adventures. Give them a few fun photo ops and encourage tagging you or using your hashtag. Then share their posts. Additionally, show off your summer products, post pictures of happy customers enjoying your services, or even create a summer-themed contest to engage your followers.
Alameda Chamber & Economic Alliance Is Here to Help
The Alameda Chamber & Economic Alliance is committed to supporting our businesses. We offer resources, networking opportunities, and advocacy to help you thrive throughout the year. Whether you’re seeking marketing advice, funding options, or guidance, we’re here to help you make the most of the summer season and beyond.
Get Involved:
- Join our next networking event to connect with fellow business owners and share ideas. Check out our calendar of upcoming events here.
- Take advantage of our educational workshops and seminars on topics relevant to small businesses.
- Join our Economic & Government Affairs Committee to stay in the know and help with our advocacy efforts to ensure a supportive business environment in Alameda.
Let’s make this summer a scorcher for the Alameda business community!
