St. Patrick’s Day celebrations are getting bigger and bigger ever year. A 2015 National Retail Foundation report projected that 127 million people would celebrate and spend an average of $36.52 on food, clothing and more. From social media to store displays, there are many ways to let customers know that your bakery is the go-to spot for St. Patrick’s Day baked goods. This year don’t rely on the luck of the Irish, and use these marketing ideas to get customers in the door.
1. Add signs and displays
A great place to start promoting your St. Patrick’s Day offerings is right in your own bakery. Integrate colorful signage and fun displays throughout the store. To add to the excitement, encourage employees to wear green during the week leading up to the holiday.
2. Supply party trays
For busy shoppers, it may be advantageous to sell pre-packaged boxes or trays of treats. Market these items as an essential time-saver for anyone celebrating, and make sure to include an array of products that can satisfy even the pickiest eater.
3. Develop a custom menu
Offering limited edition items is another way to drawn in customers. Go beyond adding green icing to everything and experiment with traditional Irish flavors. In this slideshow, see the special items bakeries across America offer during the holiday.
4. Add a touch of green to social media profiles
Social media is the easiest way to let customers know your bakery is offering exclusive St. Patrick’s Day items. Besides posting pictures of your holiday products, make sure to change your profile or cover page photo to a festive picture.
5. Host a contest
Get into the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day by hosting a contest. Think about running a red envelope special, but use green envelopes for the event. With every purchase, customers could receive an envelope and have a chance to win a prize. Lovin Oven Cakery went another direction by running a cupcake promotion. This contest gives shoppers the opportunity to win a $10 gift card if they bite into a cupcake with mint green buttercream.
6. Inspired Sales
Another way to entice customers, is to offer special discounts a couple days prior to the holiday. There are many directions a sale could go, but keep it simple. Use a four leaf clover as inspiration and host a buy three get one free sale. You could also discount any item that is green.
