Gift shops and similar stores need to be able to stand out from the rest of their peers. The crowd is growing. However, it is not as difficult as you might think to stand out.
Offer products targeted at tourists
Most gift stores can be found in tourist areas. You’ll find them outside museums, at amusement parks, and even inside stadiums. Focus on selling tourist-friendly products wherever you have a gift shop.
Check: Merchandise for nonprofits, gift shops, and fundraisers
This is evident. It’s not difficult to do this well. You might consider reducing the number of novelty rocks and shot glasses available, or adding items with a unique appeal. The majority of gift shops sell the same items, which is frustrating for consumers. You can surprise them by giving trinkets they’ll love to give to their family and friends.
Brand Merchandise & Novelty Items
Gift store products can be customized with images from local attractions or sights. Don’t be afraid of branding yourself with your products.
Your logo might also be on other products like t-shirts and apparel. Your gift shop could become a tourist attraction if you do it well.
Keep Last-Minute Essentials on Hand
Stock your shelves with everyday products if you have the space. Tourists travel far away from their homes, sometimes for several days or even weeks. Many tourists forget to bring at least one of these. A gift shop that is successful should be the local’s only stop. You may be able to offer accommodation nearby so that you can serve as a daily stop for people who are staying in the area.
Be sure to have plenty of snacks and beverages. Tourists are more likely to spend on treats than those who live in cities. It may be a smart idea to also sell wine and beer, or to open a quick-service restaurant at your property, depending on local laws. Find ways to make the area more convenient for tourists. Even if they are only there for a few days, you might even find new regulars.
Snacks
Toiletries
Sunscreen
Ponchos
Soft drinks and alcohol
Chargers
Books and notebooks
Cigarettes
Be creative with your gift shop marketing, promotions, and displays
Gift shops have a reputation for being expensive for low-quality products. Your shop shouldn’t be defined by its price. Fair pricing will be more expensive than the average market for real estate. However, you won’t lose potential customers because of your high prices.
Bundled deals are a great way to do this. It is rare for someone to go to a gift shop just for one item. You can remind them to buy more by grouping like items together. Even better is to offer a discount on these purchases. You’ll get them excited about saving some money and spending more on larger gift shop items. This is a great example of creative marketing.
Keep your inventory current
Gift shops often feel uninspired and tired. Remember that your customers are often on vacation and full of energy. To support their positive outlook, you should be at their level. Get excited about the products you are selling.