Shopping local is becoming increasingly popular today. But, in a vibrant area like Shoreditch, how can small local businesses make themselves stand out? Let’s take a look at a couple of cost-effective and simple techniques.
Utilise the Internet
Firstly, make sure that you have a Google Business Profile. One study found that 86% of Google Business Profile views come from searches like ‘barber open now’ or ‘best bookshop in Shoreditch’, so it is important that you take the time to claim your page so that your business shows up in the search results when local consumers take to Google. Optimise your profile by popping in your contact information and address, and be sure to add photos for a personal touch.
You’ll also want to utilise another free tool – social media. Every small business needs a social media presence, but the added benefit is that local people can narrow results down by location or use location keywords in their search. Make sure to add keywords and locations onto your page – even in your profile name – to allow your business to show up in these results.
Promotional Events
For local businesses, especially, it does well to take advantage of the organic footfall in your area. The trick is to entice people to come through the door. Of course, this is sometimes easier said than done. With this in mind, one way to attract people to your business is with rewards or promotions. This has long since been a strategy of online brands, particularly online casinos.
When players try their hand at casino games through online platforms, they can often benefit from a range of different promotions, such as free spins, bonuses, prize drops, free tickets, and prize wheels. This not only rewards players for signing up to the platform but also allows them to try a range of different casino games more efficiently, making the experience more immersive overall.
Taking a leaf out of their book, SMEs can hold promotional events such as spin and win stalls that gift branded stationery or an exclusive coupon, or display offers in the neighbourhood. This helps to get the brand name out there, as well as converting passersby into potential customers.
Collect Reviews
Studies have found that 88% of consumers trust recommendations from their friends and family over traditional marketing methods. Further research, 98% of consumers read reviews prior to making a purchase, and 88% are more likely to buy from a brand that replies to all its reviews. With all this in mind, collate your reviews and encourage new customers to review you after a purchase.
Your reviews could be on Google, Trustpilot, Facebook, or your website – wherever they are best placed. This can allow local people to see proof that you are as good as you say you are before making a purchasing decision. And don’t forget those verbal reviews too – get people talking about you to their friends and family. This is one of the best ways to get the word out to the local neighbourhood about your brand and foster a sense of loyalty.
And there you have it – just a few simple ways that small businesses in Shoreditch can reach out to local consumers and increase their competitiveness in the neighbourhood.