Teach us the art of promotion
Dear BIZ
We are Artie Craftie, an arts and crafts supplies shop in Blaenavon, South Wales. We opened around four years ago and three years back we saved the local Post Office from closure by incorporating it into our business. We are the first dementia-friendly craft shop in Wales.
As well as selling products we offer a range of services to the local community, from printing and picture framing to a photography studio, craft activities, dry cleaning and a laundry service, as well as acting as an information centre for tourists who visit the World Heritage Site of Blaenavon. We are looking for ways to raise awareness of our shop because we’re quite niche. Any ideas? Nick and Wendy Horler, by email
Dear BIZ
By offering such a wide range of services and becoming an integral part of your local community you are doing all the right things locally to entice people through the door.
Now you need to encourage your existing customers to spread the word about how brilliant you are and how essential you are to the community you serve.
Team up with other local businesses so you can support
each other by mutual promotion. And try to think of ways you can team up with them on joint ventures – such as staging craft sessions in a cafe, bar or hotel.
Also try and tap into the tourist industry more. You give out free information but think of ways you can bring in a bit of extra business.
Think about the essentials people might need during their visit to the town, or mementos they may buy to take back home. You can then stock these items as part of your shop’s range.
Kids on holiday often need activities to keep them occupied when the weather isn’t sunny and fine, so maybe consider affordable craft kits that work on the go.