On the First Day of Holiday Merchandising, we have some ideas for you:

1. Signage!  Make it super simple for your customers to find great gifts for the pets in their lives.  Make cards that say “Great Stocking Stuffer” or “Great Howliday Gift”. Have colors coordinate with what price range the gift is in ($5, $10, $20 or more)
 

2. Have Themed Endcaps.  Make sure Holiday themed treats & toys (think Turkey for Thanksgiving, Red & Green for Christmas, Blue & White for Hanukah) are grouped together in plain sight so customers wanting to get in the holiday spirit can easily find them.
 

3. Snacks. Have small cups of hot chocolate or cider ready for those cold days, and treats from Santa for all pets who enter the store.

4. Music.  Let the dogs out on your pet themed playlist. 

5. Don’t Forget the Pet Parents.  Pet themed gifts for people make for great add on-sales.

6. Pitt Stop. Have somewhere for customers to sit & take a break from the rush of Christmas shopping.  Take the opportunity to talk to them about what their pets are planning on doing for the holidays.

7. Buy 1, Give 1. Offer Pet parents a way to donate toys to a local rescue.  Would they like to buy a toy or a treat for a pet in need this holiday season?  Set the donations aside and bring to your favorite rescue or shelter.

8. Festive Window Displays.  Is that a Santa Cat with his twelve Raindogs flying in your store window?

9 . Wrapping. Have pet themed gift wrapping available for customers in a rush.

10. Santa Paws.  Everyone has heard of the Pet Portaits with Santa by now, but what if your customer can’t make it to a specific event? Have a cute backdrop on a door and some holiday themed costumes that customers can dress their pup up in. Take a photo with a smart phone or a store camera. You could share the pictures on your store’s facebook page and give the most liked pet a holiday gift.  Don’t forget to write down the owner & pets name & email.

11. Offer a Thank You Coupon.  Give customers a coupon with their purchases to encourage them to return again during the holidays or after the holidays have passed.

12. Get in the Spirit.  Don’t forget to tell your customers “Happy Howlidays” or “Meowy Christmas”.