Hey Stratford retailers! Mark Johnson here. I’ve been in the retail game for years, and let me tell you, in a town like ours, attracting tourists is everything. We’re not just selling stuff; we’re selling a piece of Stratford. So, how do we get those tourists through our doors?
Understanding What Makes Stratford Special
What brings people to Stratford? It’s a mix of things! Of course, there’s the Stratford Festival. World-class theatre! But it’s also the Stratford Summer Music Festival, the beautiful Avon River, the parks, and amazing buildings like the Tom Patterson Theatre. These things draw them in. Our job? Make them want to stay and explore our shops.
Partnerships: Let’s Work Together
Tourists listen to recommendations. Hotels, tour guides… let’s get them on our side!
Here’s what I mean:
- Hotels: Offer discount cards for their guests.
- Restaurants: “Dinner and a Show” packages. Boom!
- Tour Operators: Exclusive shopping experiences or discounts.
It’s a win-win. More customers for us, a better experience for them.
Your Online Storefront: Make it Shine
Think about it: someone’s visiting Stratford. They’re probably Googling “unique gifts Stratford,” right? Not just wandering around. So, how do we make sure they find us?
- SEO (Search Engine Optimization): Use keywords! “Stratford souvenirs,” “local crafts,” “Stratford Festival gifts.” What would you search for?
- Social Media: Show off your stuff! Photos, behind-the-scenes, happy customers. Use hashtags like #StratfordON, #StratfordFestival, #ShopLocalStratford. Run ads on Facebook and Instagram. Target those tourists!
- Mobile-Friendly Website: Everyone’s on their phones. Make sure your site works on mobile!
- Photos: Get good ones! Professional photos of your products and store. It makes a HUGE difference.
Local Events: Get Involved!
Stratford is always happening. The Festival, Summer Music, farmers’ markets, holidays… So many opportunities!
Participate! Set up a booth, offer promotions, sponsor events. Show tourists you’re part of Stratford.
Customer Service: Be Awesome
This is simple: be amazing to your customers. Tourists will remember a great experience. Train your staff to be friendly, helpful, and know about Stratford. Speak different languages if you can. Make people feel valued. Happy customers tell their friends. It’s the best marketing!
Tourist-Friendly Promotions That Actually Work
Okay, let’s get practical. Some ideas:
- “Show Your Ticket” Discount: Discount for showing a Stratford Festival ticket. Easy!
- “Welcome to Stratford” Gift Basket: Local products in a basket. Offer it as a prize!
- “Stratford Souvenir” Collection: Items specifically for tourists.
- Loyalty Programs: Even for visitors! Reward them for coming back.
- Local Artisans: Feature unique, local stuff. Tourists can’t find it anywhere else!
Experiential Marketing: Make Memories!
Don’t just sell stuff. Create an experience. Workshops? Demonstrations? Tasting events with local food? Photo booth with Stratford props? Make it memorable!
Let’s Do This!
Stratford is special. Our businesses make it that way. Use these tips to attract tourists, get more customers, and boost sales. It’s not just about money; it’s about making Stratford a great place. So, get out there and make it happen! See you around town!
Hey, it's Mark Johnson. You know, I've spent my whole career swimming in the world of retail. And one thing Read more
Alright, let's talk Stratford. Mark Johnson here, and I'm all about helping local businesses shine. Stratford's been on a wild Read more