10 tips for indie boutiques

Most of this stuff I think indies might know instinctively, because indie boutiques have always been about authentic relationships with customers and designers, but still it’s interesting to read this ethic in the form of 10 point advice from professional Silicon Valley consulting agencies! Check out the full article with more indepth examination on Mercury News.

10 tips for boutique owners this holiday season

1. Offer selections not found in other stores and stock unique merchandise that will serve as an “ambassador” that brings in new customers who will only be able to find it in your store.

2. Boutique shopping should be a special experience. A customer who is spending $35 on a scented candle or $350 on a blouse should get the same attention and extras such as free gift wrapping.

3. Provide freebies, such as simple hemming or wardrobe consultations.

4. Reconsider strict return policies for the holidays.

5. Give something away with a purchase of a big-ticket item. A gift certificate, an accessory or basic T-shirt, even one with the store”s logo.

6. Stay true to your identity and niche whether it’s luxury goods, new designers or catering to a certain customer.

7. Make sure your sales tickets are clearly marked so that customers don”t have to guess what the prices are.

8. Get as many potential customers in the door as possible. Send mailers, have a big sale, host trunk shows and private parties.

9. Owners should call customers to thank them for coming into the store or making a purchase. Don”t try to talk up a promotion or a future event during this call.

10. Give sales associates the authority to give customers additional discounts or match sale prices at other stores. Customers are more important than profits right now.