Brick and Mortar Storefronts: Low Budget Year End Tactics to Get You ‘In the Black’ in 2025

Low Budget Year End Tactics to Get You ‘In the Black’ in 2025

• Low Budget Year End Tactics to Get You ‘In the Black’ for 2025: Your Complete Guide
• Brick and Mortar Storefronts: Low Budget Year End Tactics to Get You ‘In the Black’ in 2025
• Local Service Businesses: Low Budget Year End Tactics to Get You ‘In the Black’ in 2025
• Stylists & Designers: Low Budget Year End Tactics to Get You ‘In the Black’ in 2025
• Farm-to-Table Businesses: Low Budget Year End Tactics to Get You ‘In the Black’ in 2025

As the year wraps up, local Hemet and San Jacinto brick-and-mortar businesses are navigating through the busiest, yet most crucial, time of the year. For small, independent stores, shops, and offices, this season could be the turning point that makes or breaks your financial success in 2025.

With holiday foot traffic increasing, the key to ensuring your business is ‘In The Black’ by year-end is implementing smart, cost-effective marketing tactics that drive customers into your store. Whether you’re up against tough competition or struggling to keep customers engaged, these DIY marketing solutions are designed to be quick, impactful, and low-budget.

This is Part 1 of our 4-part series on Low-Budget Year-End Holiday Marketing. Read Part 2 Here

What You’ll Learn

By reading this content, small business owners and entrepreneurs with physical locations in Hemet and San Jacinto will discover simple, low-cost ways to bring more customers into their stores, shops, and offices during the holiday season.

You’ll learn how to excite shoppers about your products and services, run quick sales and promotions, and collaborate with other local businesses to attract more people.

You’ll also find out how to make your location stand out with eye-catching holiday displays, optimize your online business profile to appear in local Google searches, and offer little extras that keep customers coming back well into 2025.

These strategies are easy to implement and will help boost your sales, ensuring you end the year strong and start the new year In The Black!

10 Cheap Tips for Increasing Foot Traffic This Holiday Season

With the 2024 holidays approaching fast, foot traffic is more important than ever for small, local businesses throughout the San Jacinto and Hemet Valley. And with the economy the way it is, you just don’t have extra cash for expensive marketing tactics.

At, Valley Local Pages, we completely understand that. It is our goal to give you what you need to help you succeed. We feel the community loss every time another local business closes. So, we’re here to offer you the business help and assistance you need to get out of the red and succeed.

These ten easy, low-budget tips will help you bring shoppers through your doors, boost sales, and make the most of the busiest time of the year. Whether you’re a small shop, office, or service provider in Hemet or San Jacinto, these strategies are designed to get results without breaking the bank.

1. Flash Sales and Pop-Up Promotions

A pop-up promo or flash sale is a quick, limited-time offer that creates urgency and drives customers to take immediate action. This strategy can be especially effective during the holiday season, when shoppers are already on the lookout for great deals.

Here’s how to run a simple flash sale or pop-up promotion for your brick-and-mortar store:

• Create Urgency with Limited-Time Discounts: Set a specific time window for your sale (e.g., 24 hours or just a few hours). Highlight the deadline on social media, in-store, and in any emails you send out. Make sure customers know they can only get the discount by visiting your store within that timeframe.
• Advertise on Social Media: Use platforms like Facebook and Instagram to spread the word. If you have a small budget, you can boost posts to reach a larger audience. Don’t forget to use local hashtags and tag nearby locations to increase visibility.
• Exclusive In-Store Coupons: Encourage foot traffic by offering exclusive in-store coupons. A simple tactic is to collect email addresses in exchange for a discount that’s only redeemable in your store. Use a QR code or a signup sheet at the entrance.
• Incorporate Pop-Up Promotions: Consider running a pop-up promotion outside of your regular store hours, perhaps after-hours or early in the morning. These unannounced events can create a buzz, and you can notify your followers about the promotion just a few hours before it begins.

2. Gift Bundles

Holiday shoppers are always looking for convenient, thoughtful gifts, and offering pre-packaged gift bundles can make their lives easier while boosting your sales. These bundles can be a combination of your best-selling products or complementary items that deliver extra value to customers.

Here’s how to create simple, effective gift bundles:

• Focus on Best Sellers: Start with your top-selling items. Bundle them with lower-cost products or promotional items, making sure the combined price is appealing. This not only moves more inventory but also introduces customers to products they may not have purchased individually.
• Create Themed Bundles: Think about what your customers are looking for during the holidays. For example, you can create bundles based on themes like “Holiday Relaxation Kit” or “Cozy Winter Essentials.” Add unique, branded touches that make the package stand out, like a custom holiday tag or packaging.
• Add Limited-Time Incentives: Encourage customers to purchase bundles by offering a limited-time discount or bonus gift. For example, “Buy this bundle and get a free gift card!” It gives customers more reasons to choose your bundle over purchasing items separately.
• Target Last-Minute Shoppers: Make your bundles easy to grab and go—perfect for those in a rush. Feature them prominently in your store with signage that says “Perfect for Last-Minute Gifts” to catch the attention of those scrambling for ideas.

3. Social Media Shoutouts

Getting your customers to promote your business on social media is a low-cost, high-impact way to increase your reach. People trust recommendations from friends and family, and a quick shoutout from a satisfied customer can attract new foot traffic to your store.

Here’s how to encourage social media shoutouts:

• Offer Incentives for Posts: Encourage customers to share their purchase or experience at your store on social media by offering a small discount or bonus. A simple “Tag us on Instagram for 10% off your next purchase” can be enough to motivate them. Be sure to highlight this at checkout or with signage in-store.
• Create a Unique Hashtag: Make it easy for customers to share their shoutouts by creating a fun, memorable hashtag for your store. You can even make it holiday-themed, such as #HolidayDealsAt[YourStoreName]. Ask customers to use the hashtag when they post photos of your products or shopping experience.
• Engage and Share: Don’t just wait for shoutouts—get involved! Share customer posts on your own social media pages and respond to their comments. Showing appreciation for their support can encourage more customers to do the same.
• Run a Holiday Social Media Contest: Take it up a notch by hosting a simple contest. Offer a prize (such as a product, service, or gift card) to the customer who creates the best social media post about your store. You can ask for votes from other followers to increase engagement and visibility.

4. In-Store Signage Updates

Your in-store signage plays a critical role in guiding customers through your shop and informing them of promotions or holiday deals. With just a few updates, you can make your signage work harder for you this holiday season.

Here’s how to enhance your in-store signage:

• Keep It Simple and Bold: Use clear, bold fonts that are easy to read from a distance. Your signage should quickly communicate the deal or promotion with no room for confusion. Focus on key phrases like “Holiday Sale” or “50% Off Today Only!”
• Highlight Holiday Promotions: Make sure your signage focuses on holiday-specific offers. Use festive colors and designs that stand out but remain consistent with your brand. Place these signs in high-traffic areas like the entrance, checkout counters, or near featured products.
• Use Directional Signage: Help customers navigate your store by using arrows or other indicators that direct them toward special offers or popular sections. This makes it easier for them to find what they’re looking for and keeps them engaged longer.
• Incorporate Digital Signage: If you have digital screens in your store, use them to showcase rotating promotions, countdowns to special sales, or highlight seasonal items. This dynamic approach can catch attention more effectively than static signs.
• Signage for Impulse Buys: Place small signs near checkout areas promoting last-minute gift ideas, stocking stuffers, or exclusive holiday deals. These are often overlooked but can significantly increase purchase value.

5. Holiday-Themed Window Displays

Your storefront window is one of the first things customers see, and during the holiday season, it can be a powerful tool to draw in foot traffic. With a bit of creativity and minimal cost, you can create eye-catching displays that captivate holiday shoppers.

Here’s how to make your window displays stand out:

• Keep It Festive and Relevant: Use traditional holiday colors or themes that resonate with your products or services. Whether it’s a winter wonderland or a cozy holiday scene, make sure the display aligns with your brand while evoking the holiday spirit.
• Feature Best-Sellers or Promotions: Highlight your most popular products or current holiday promotions in the window. Use signage to clearly indicate deals or gift bundle options, so passersby immediately see what’s on offer.
• Incorporate Lighting for Impact: Lighting can make a huge difference, especially as days get shorter. Use twinkling string lights, spotlights, or illuminated signs to ensure your display remains vibrant, even after dark.
• Create Movement: Consider adding elements that move, like rotating displays or flickering lights, to catch the attention of people walking by. Movement is a great way to draw curiosity and make people stop to take a closer look.
• Keep It Simple but Engaging: Too many elements can overwhelm viewers. Choose a few key pieces to feature and build your display around them. Whether it’s a single holiday tree adorned with your products or a cozy fireplace scene, simplicity often has the most impact.

6. Leverage Free Google My Business Tools

Google My Business (GMB) is an invaluable tool for brick-and-mortar businesses, and the best part? It’s free. By optimizing your GMB profile, you can improve your local visibility, attract holiday shoppers, and increase foot traffic to your store.

Here’s how to make the most of it:

• Update Your Business Information: Ensure your GMB profile is up to date with correct store hours, especially during the holidays. Include any extended hours, special holiday closings, or unique events to keep customers informed and encourage visits.
• Add Photos and Videos: Upload high-quality photos of your store’s holiday displays, featured products, or any festive decorations. You can also include short videos showcasing in-store events or holiday specials. Visuals help make your profile more engaging and attract customers.
• Promote Holiday Offers with Posts: Google My Business allows you to create posts that appear in your profile when people search for your business. Use this feature to highlight limited-time holiday offers, flash sales, or upcoming in-store events. Update these posts regularly to stay fresh and relevant.
• Encourage Customer Reviews: Positive reviews can boost your visibility and credibility. Encourage satisfied customers to leave reviews, especially during the holiday season. You can even offer a small incentive (such as a discount on their next purchase) for leaving a review.
• Use the Q&A Section: Monitor the questions section of your GMB profile and provide clear, prompt answers. Customers may ask about holiday hours, product availability, or upcoming sales, and responding quickly can make a great impression.

7. Cross-Promote with Other Local Businesses

Teaming up with nearby businesses can be a cost-effective way to boost your holiday marketing efforts. Cross-promotions allow you to tap into each other’s customer base, encouraging local shoppers to visit multiple stores or service providers.

Here’s how to run simple, effective cross-promotions:

• Create Joint Discounts: Partner with a local business that complements yours. For example, a clothing boutique could team up with a nearby café to offer a discount at the café when customers make a purchase at the boutique—and vice versa. This encourages customers to shop and dine locally, benefiting both businesses.
• Bundle Products or Services: Combine products or services into a special holiday package. For example, a salon could pair up with a local spa to offer a “Holiday Pamper Package” that includes a discounted haircut and massage. Customers get a deal, and both businesses benefit from shared promotion.
• Collaborate on Holiday Events: Host a joint holiday event, such as a small open house or customer appreciation night. By sharing the cost and effort, you can create a larger, more attractive event that draws in both of your customer bases. Consider offering a holiday raffle where attendees can win prizes from each business.
• Promote Each Other Online: Use social media or your email newsletters to promote each other’s holiday deals. A simple shoutout in your email or a shared post on Instagram can go a long way in driving traffic to both businesses.
• In-Store Cross-Promotion: If you have physical locations close to each other, use your space to advertise your partner’s deals. Display flyers or small signs that encourage your customers to visit the other business for a special offer or discount.

8. Offer Value-Added Services

Adding value to your customer experience doesn’t have to break the bank. Small, thoughtful services can make your business stand out and keep customers coming back, especially during the busy holiday season when convenience is key.

Here’s how to offer value-added services:

• Free Gift Wrapping: Offering free gift wrapping for holiday purchases is a simple, low-cost service that customers love. It saves them time and adds a personal touch. You can even use branded wrapping paper or tags to subtly promote your business.
• Personal Shopping Assistance: Provide personalized shopping assistance for customers looking for the perfect gift. This service can be as simple as having staff on hand to recommend items or offer suggestions based on the customer’s needs. It makes shopping faster and more convenient for your customers.
• Curbside Pickup: Offer curbside pickup for customers who want the convenience of ordering online or over the phone but still prefer to shop locally. This service is especially appealing to busy holiday shoppers and adds a layer of convenience that can set you apart.
• Extended Return Policies: During the holiday season, extend your return window to give customers more flexibility. This makes it easier for them to shop early without worrying about tight return deadlines, which can boost confidence in purchasing from your store.
• Holiday Card Inclusion: Offer to include a complimentary holiday card with any gift purchase. It’s a small touch, but it saves the customer from having to pick up a card elsewhere, making the gift-giving process easier and faster.

9. Host a Holiday Giveaway

A holiday giveaway is a great way to generate excitement and attract new customers during the holiday season. With a well-planned giveaway, you can boost engagement, increase foot traffic, and create buzz around your business—all with minimal cost.

Here’s how to host a successful holiday giveaway:

• Keep It Simple: The easier it is to enter, the more participation you’ll get. Ask customers to enter the giveaway by visiting your store, making a purchase, or simply providing their email address. You could also run it online, requiring participants to follow your social media accounts or tag a friend to enter.
• Offer an Enticing Prize: Choose a prize that appeals to your target audience. It could be a product or service you offer, a gift card, or a special holiday bundle. Make sure the prize is valuable enough to generate excitement but cost-effective for your business.
• Promote It Everywhere: Spread the word about your giveaway through every available channel—social media, email newsletters, in-store signage, and even partnerships with other local businesses. The more people know about it, the better your results will be.
• Set a Deadline: Create urgency by setting a clear deadline for the giveaway. A short time frame (such as one week) encourages people to act quickly. Announce the winner in a fun and public way, either in-store or online, to maintain engagement.
• Encourage Engagement: Use the giveaway to boost engagement by asking customers to share their participation on social media. You could ask them to post a picture of a recent purchase or tag your business in their holiday shopping photos, creating more exposure for your store.

10. Join Locally Owned Directories – Valley Local Pages (Free through 2025)

Local business directories are an excellent way to increase your visibility, especially during the holiday season. By joining directories that focus on your community, like Valley Local Pages, you can reach local shoppers who are specifically looking to support businesses in their area.

Here’s why joining local directories can benefit your business:

• Increased Online Visibility: Directories like Valley Local Pages help boost your business’s online presence. Shoppers searching for businesses in Hemet and San Jacinto are more likely to find you when you’re listed in a local directory, especially if they are looking for holiday deals or last-minute gift ideas.
• Targeted Local Traffic: By listing in a directory focused on local businesses, you’re tapping into an audience that’s already inclined to shop locally. This means you’re reaching customers who are specifically seeking to spend their money in their community during the holidays.
• Boost Foot Traffic and Online Sales: Directories often provide links to your website, phone number, or physical store location, making it easier for potential customers to visit or contact you. It’s a quick way to drive both foot traffic and online sales.
• Free Listing Opportunity: With Valley Local Pages offering free listings until 12/31/2024, it’s a no-brainer to get your business listed. There’s no cost, and you’ll gain valuable exposure during the busiest shopping season of the year.
• Highlight Special Offers: Use your directory listing to promote your holiday sales, special events, or exclusive offers. It’s an easy way to communicate your holiday promotions to a broader local audience without spending additional marketing dollars.

Up Next: Local Service Businesses: Low Budget Year End Tactics to Get You ‘In the Black’ for 2025

Read the Full Series:

• Post 1: How to Boost Holiday Sales for Brick-and-Mortar Stores
• Post 2: Maximize Holiday Sales for Local Service Businesses
• Post 3: Holiday Marketing Tips for Local Stylists & Designers
• Post 4: Boost Holiday Sales for Farm-to-Table Companies