Over the last few years, the arts & crafts industry has undergone a shift in consumer buying behavior. The global pandemic and the growth of e-commerce have created a surge in online shopping that will likely remain in the future. The availability and variety of craft products in the market are increasing. Utilizing better solutions and strategies will boost sales, optimize efficiency and keep you ahead of the wholesale b2b market competition while keeping up with client demands. Here are the top ways to maximize your craft business and increase revenue.
Offer Referral Incentives
Offering referral incentives is an excellent method to reach a broader audience using your current customers to grow your business. Offer attractive deals on initial wholesale purchases and additional discounts for bulk orders to customers who refer your company to potential clients. An incentive program is an opportunity to grow your customer base as potential buyers contact you to learn about your products. When potential clients hear about your business through a referral, they are more likely to trust your products’ quality and increase their likelihood of becoming regular buyers. It is a simple approach that will encourage customers to bring in new business for you.
Choose a Unified Platform for Your Arts & Craft Retail Stores
Selecting the right software solution for your craft retail stores will allow you complete control over your business from a single platform. Benefits of using a craft store pos system include more precise inventory tracking, a streamlined checkout process and better reporting procedures. Store associates can access real-time data while you use the platform to leverage centralized information for your business from anywhere. All your key information will be in one place, with an integrated website to bridge the gap between in-store and online sales. Additionally, you can use the software for your marketing campaigns, such as reviewing invites, emails and text messages.
Develop Strong Relationships
Communication, reliability and demonstrated care for your client base are critical for your business to remain competitive. During business deals, be knowledgeable, answer questions, and inform your clients about the marketability of your products. Let customers know how your products are distinct, and continue to educate them regularly. The arts and crafts industry allows you to be creative and innovative to connect with your clients. Your buyers will value your commitment when they see your support.
Organize Your Lead Generation
Lead generation is one of the top ways to boost sales for your business. Use as many platforms as possible to attract new customers. For instance, trade shows and exhibitions are excellent places to contact potential clients. Stay in touch through email, phone calls and professional social media platforms like LinkedIn. Pay attention to your competitors and learn from their strategies to give you additional insight.
Market and Network
Creating powerful marketing campaigns and networking are invaluable tools to boost your sales. Promoting your craft product business and making it stand out in the market is a job on its own and requires full-time attention. If necessary, hire a marketing specialist who can help you stay competitive. Attend networking events to meet new potential customers and utilize the value of the events to connect with buyers who will be interested in your products.
Provide Fast Quality Delivery
The efficiency and performance of your delivery system are integral to how much a client will value you as a supplier. Your top priority as a wholesaler is keeping your customers in stock with your products. Quick distribution is how you stay competitive in the industry and will allow you to gain trust with your buyers when they know they can rely on products arriving on time. Look for methods that will streamline the efficiency of your delivery system through routing and scheduling. If you have multiple warehouses, use logistics to consolidate orders into one area to be distributed to your customers.
Running a business in the arts and crafts industry can be challenging. Whether starting a new business or managing a new one, implementing essential elements like creating solid relationships with your client base, taking advantage of the right industry-specific software, having a solid distribution plan and creating new leads for future buyers will keep you competitive in the craft world. These simple tips will help you market and sell your inventory quickly, thus boosting your revenue and securing the longevity of your business.
