Increasing foot traffic in your grocery store may seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. While big chains spend millions on marketing campaigns each year, there are plenty of ways that even smaller, independent grocers can attract more customers through their doors without breaking the bank. The key is getting creative—thinking outside the box of traditional signage and promotions to develop strategies to surprise and delight customers.
Things like staging impromptu product tastings in high-traffic areas, partnering with local food trucks to offer samples on busier shopping days, or transforming empty floor space into a mini community activity center on weekends can go a long way in not only getting people into your store but putting a smile on their faces and leaving a great impression that will keep them coming back time and time again.
Apart from the ones mentioned, we’ll share some of the low-cost and high-impact ideas you can implement this week to boost foot traffic and increase sales throughout the year.
Best Practices for Increasing Foot Traffic In Your Grocery Store
Foot traffic is imperative in a grocery store since it’s related to the revenue and sales of the business. The more people enter the store, the more chances of them buying something. But if you’re having a hard time getting more customers to come in these past few days, below are some strategies you can execute immediately:
1. Interior and Exterior Displays
People will see your displays first whenever they pass by your store. Whether it be a simple banner or elaborate window decals, their interests will be piqued once they see something they want to try. A simple poster of your latest offering is enough to get them coming in, even if it’s just a soft-serve ice cream.
Apart from that, you can put up designs outside if there are special occasions to show you’re in the season. It will leave an impression that you’re up-to-date and have something to offer for that particular holiday. For instance, you can put up storefront window decals about Halloween or Christmas. These will attract customers doing last-minute shopping and may also be looking forward to buying something festive.
2. Special Discounts/Offers
People love discounts and special offers. If they know they can get their favorite product for a fraction of the regular price, they will go out of their way to grab it. In addition, offering your existing customers discount coupons or vouchers will keep them coming back for more because they have a reason to use it.
Some other examples of offers to give to your customers:
- Buy One Take One promo’s
- Bundle offers where they get a discount if they buy more than one item
- Limited-time-only discounts for specific products or categories
- Special deals for loyalty card members
If you constantly have these types of promotions, your customers will bring their family and friends with them, knowing that they get the most value for the money they spend in your store!
3. Don’t Hesitate to Invest in Your Employees
This strategy works best in local grocery chains, where most employees are from the community. Investing in your workforce allows you to retain them, which translates to better customer service. From healthcare benefits to life insurance, you should never think twice about giving your employees the best incentives they need. It’s a win-win for everyone!
Moreover, happy employees will also advertise your store to their friends and family. They will recommend you to everybody they know because they’re loyal to you. You’ll never experience layoffs or sudden resignations because everyone is happy with their position. Your employees will become your greatest allies if you’re fair and appreciate their hard work!
4. Sell Food Onsite
A simple food stall with tables and chairs and a coffee shop where people can relax is another tactic numerous grocery store chains have taken advantage of over the years. It increases dwell time within your premises, encouraging them to purchase more.
More benefits of selling food within your grocery store:
- People are likelier to try out a new product if they see it in their line of sight, especially when hungry!
- It increases foot traffic organically.
- Customers will appreciate the convenience of buying snacks or meals while grocery shopping.
The best part is you don’t have to build your own restaurant or coffee shop. Instead, collaborate with food and drink retailers interested in leasing the space inside your store. That way, you get more income without doing anything!
5. Host Events
Taste tests of a new product, cooking shows, and wine-tasting events are just some examples you can use to engage with your customers on a personal level. You can even include the community by collaborating with local chefs or food bloggers to attract more foot traffic through their audience.
One main reason why hosting events is paramount to your grocery store’s success is that it creates a sense of community. Once people are familiar with your location, they will feel welcome whenever they enter your store and are more than willing to shop there the next time.
6. Hire Micro-Influencers
Local influencers in your area with a substantial following are the best option for you if your goal is to increase foot traffic! They can vlog their experience, snap photos, share your latest products, and more. The possibilities are endless, especially if the influencer you’re following is creative!
Some tips when looking for influencers:
- They must be in your niche.
- They should have a significant following on their social media platforms.
- Check the quality of their content and how engaged their audience is.
Once you find a micro-influencer who fits your criteria, reach out and offer handsome compensation in exchange for their services. It’s an effective way to promote your grocery store without spending too much on advertising! With their influence, more people will want to visit you!
Grow Your Customers Through Tested-and-Proven Strategies
You can implement multiple strategies listed above to increase foot traffic in your grocery store. As long as you’re consistent and driven to execute them at the right time, you will see growth in your profits. Who knows? You might even expand and open more branches!
