i work in a tourist shop in a state. Tourists come on cruise ships and have several hours to shop/take tours. The shop doesn't sell the souveneiers like a bunch of other shops but it sells other things of another nationality. I have been there for 3 years. first year was great, second not so great, and now it doing reallly badly, what can i do to pick up my business?
2006-07-24 16:44:19 · 14 answers · asked by ALEX111 1 in Business & Finance ➔ Small Business
SALES. Big red and yellow signs to draw people in. Put the more expensive stuff at the back and cheaper, better-priced stuff right at the door. Once you get them in and looking around, they'll be more likely to stay and shop. If you put all the really expensive stuff right at the door (no matter how nice it might be), they're going to think the rest of the store is out of their price range too and keep on walking (I'm sure they already spent enough on the cruise, so they're looking for good-priced stuff). I'm a shopper too, and I'm guilty of that as well. I look at the stuff at the door, and if I feel it's too much or is too outrageously priced compared to other similar things I look at, I don't even both to go in. Just concentrate on getting people in the door first. And don't ignore them while they're there, nor should you follow around on their heels asking if they need help. Let them know you see them and appreciate their buisiness ("Hi! Welcome to so-and-so's. If you need any help, let me know!") and then just relax and let them browse.
Also sell food or cold sodas for cheaper than the surounding stores too, that will draw people in too so they'll be more likely to look around as they come in for a drink. Also put cool little knick-knacks around the register to get their attention and get them interested in other things you might sell.
Good luck!!!
2006-07-24 16:47:51 · answer #1 · answered by chica_zarca 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Since you do not sell tourist souvenirs like the other shops, partner with one near to you and offer to refer customers to one another for a commission. Then send out flyers whenever tourist are coming to attract them to your shop. It does not have to be professionally done up just microsoft publisher flyers will do or hand drawn flyers. Partner with local businesses near your area to refer businesses to one another or sell your souvenirs in eaties that tourist also frequent. You can pay on a percentage of sales and convine the restaurant owners that it will add another additional revenue stream to their business.
There are some ideas that I have as I do not know what things you sell that wil attract tourist that come visit. perhaps you can give a more accurate description.How come business was good inthe first year? Do you mean to say that there were more visitors inthe first year? You can contact me if you want more idea. Do what it takes to save your business and claim back your life.
2006-07-24 23:51:43 · answer #2 · answered by penny_zf 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I had a very similar situation myself years ago. Check your store for cleanliness, and display freshness. Move things around and display them differently. You would be amazed what a difference it will make in sales. Also do some research on what sells in your area. You may need to rethink your stock. Some items have time limits. What is hot one year will not be the next. Keep atop of your compitition, and imitate the other businesses that are doing really well. Don't worry so much about being unique. Just sell !
2006-07-24 23:55:15 · answer #3 · answered by bdever59 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Sometimes, when there are enough souvenirs shops in one place, people are tired of getting into other shops because the items there are the same. Now, realizing this one factor, you have to think of other things to sell on your shop. Think of other things you could sell to forigners like local food and drinks. If you are not ready for this change, maybe you could incorporate a little difference by making personalized souvenirs like putting their photos on postcards or t-shirts along with your designs. Or their names on their hats or bags. You may also have special offers on your products like discounts or a freebie. This just takes a little creativity on your part.
Mary
http://onlinepr.gbwatch.com/
2006-07-25 00:01:36 · answer #4 · answered by mary 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
What state? Where do the cruise ships come from? What are the main nationalities of the tourists? Answer these and we can help...
2006-07-24 23:51:25 · answer #5 · answered by classe300 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Get stuff that people are buying, lower your prices a little? Is your shop in the middle of all the main tourist areas or on the outside. Remember you gotta spend money to make money.
2006-07-24 23:48:33 · answer #6 · answered by i_lovethis_bar03 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Compared to offline businesses, the investment required to start an online business is minimal. A popular way of earning money on the internet is by providing information and services. This can be monetised by advertising or charging a subscription. You can also make money online by selling products on auction websites like eBay or through your own website. More information available at http://tinyurl.com/syw6m
2006-07-28 06:56:02 · answer #7 · answered by lalraniusha 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Maybe you need to revamp your inventory. Have you been stocking the same items these three years? The things that were "in style" three years ago may not be now. Has the tourist business been slow or has it moved or changed this year?
2006-07-24 23:50:52 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Alex,
if you are open to contacting me directly I may be able to offer some things that could assist you. I would need some more details on your business, where you are located and what you have done before... That is why I mention contacting me directly. Protecting and Growing Small Business is what I do for a living...
Don
2006-07-26 01:33:32 · answer #9 · answered by mallicoatdd 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Associations may be a good avenue to explore. These organizations will address many of the thoughts, questions and concerns you'll inevitably have as well as many you haven't anticipated yet. See the source box for some relevant links.
Hope that helps! I wish you much success & happiness in all your ventures!
2006-07-25 10:27:58 · answer #10 · answered by TM Express™ 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋