When it comes to running a business, you are sure to want to make yours stand out from the crowd. As the summer fast approaches, there will be a lot of focus on the new season, and it is important for your business to embrace this to attract new customers. However, it is not always easy to know how to do this, so we have put together our top tips for making your business attractive in the summer season.
As the weather warms up, most people’s thoughts turn towards holidays, barbecues and sunshine, and it is important that your business recognises this. If your business seems to be talking about the things that your customers are thinking, then they are more likely to be drawn toward your business and what it offers.
Whether you run a shop, salon, or restaurant, Judson Signs, sign makers in Mansfield, share their expertise on how your businesses signage can stand out this summer.
First impressions
We all know that first impressions count, so it is important to take an objective view of the outside of your business. Ask yourself honestly how appealing it really is. Are there bits which are starting to look tired? Has the winter weather taken its toll on signs or awnings? Are the planters and hanging baskets looking a little overgrown? Try and see your business from the perspective of a customer and you will soon spot the little things that can affect what a passer-by thinks in that first glance.
Outdoor dining
As soon as the sun comes out, we all want to sit outside, whether it is for a three-course meal or a cup of coffee. That means that creating even just a small outside spot for dining can have a massive appeal and helps to make your business look busy and popular. Make sure that your chairs and tables look comfortable and are kept clean at all times, and try to remember that the British weather is not always your friend so have parasols and paperweights handy to combat the elements.
Your menu should be something that is always easy to see, so make sure it is prominently displayed. You can show people exactly what you offer and use it to tempt them in, so make sure they are beautifully designed and easy to read.
Signage
Once upon a time, your signage was simply the name of your business above the door, but now it has so many more functions. It plays a huge part in brand identity, and is a way to tell prospective customers who you are and what you do, just in a single glance. Some of your signage will be permanent and some of it can change, so take a look at what you can make use of for the summer.
Signs which go in the window or on the pavement can really tap into your summer theme, telling people about new menus, sales or exciting brands that you want to promote. Banners can be a great way to grab attention and tell people something new about your business, and can make use of summer colours and fonts.
Think about where your sign is located and what it is competing with to come up with something eye catching and exciting that still reflects your business. Make sure your signage is clear and visible at all times to maximise the number of people that is appeals to. Think about summer colours, beach themes and fun in the sun to tap into the mood of your customers and draw them into your business.
Windows
Your windows are a view into your business, so you need to make sure that you think carefully about how to use them. Stand outside and take a good look at what can be seen from the street. Are there tables or displays on show? If so, make sure that you get them looking their absolute best.
You can also use your window to form a display that will entice people in. This could be mannequins wearing your latest range, posters, or even a beach scene that can show off what you offer. Set the scene for your business in your window and the right customers should walk through your door.
Floral touches
Adding a few seasonal flowers to the front of your business can be a quick and easy way to give it a lift. This could be window boxes, large plant pots by the door or strategically placed hanging baskets. They give a fantastic injection of colour and can help your business to look instantly appealing. However, you should think carefully about which flowers you pick, as they could end up having the opposite effect. Those which have a lot of pollen could put off hay fever sufferers and attract insects that diners may not want buzzing around them. You will therefore need to do a little research into what would be most suitable for your space.
A treat for the ears
Summer is the season of fun, so a little light music can be a lovely touch. Music can evoke a lot of memories, and there are some great summer tunes that will take people back to happy times and make them take a second look at your business. Remember, whilst this needs to be loud enough to be heard, it should not be intrusive or overpowering, so keep it subtle. It also needs to be reflective of your business, so don’t start pumping out hardcore rave classics if you want to attract the ladies who lunch.
The summer is a huge season for most businesses, as the sunshine seems to make many people ready to part with their cash. You will want your business to be the one that customers choose to visit, so you need to think carefully about how to appeal to those who walk by. Just a few little touches can help your business to make the most of this, and that instant kerb appeal from your new summer look should have your cash registers singing.
