Posts Tagged ‘selling points’

Tuesday Tip: How to Resell Shoes

Tuesday, December 8th, 2009

Selling used shoes differs a bit from selling new shoes. Instead of having one shoe on display and then several pairs of the same shoe stored in different sizes, you will have to display all your shoes at once. Here are a few tips that we recommend using when you are reselling shoes in your consignment or second hand shop.

Instead of grouping shoes by type and style, we recommend grouping them by size. Save your customers time by putting all the shoes in their size together. This way, customers can easily locate only the shoes that will fit them. We would still separate mens, womens and childrens shoes into different sections.

Just like other shoe stores, people are going to want to sit down and be comfortable when trying on shoes. Have chairs or stools in place for people to tie laces or buckle straps. Also, have mirrors close to the floor so people won’t have search for a mirror elsewhere.

Have the sizes clearly marked. Even if you have shoes sectioned by size, they are bound to get mixed up after a busy day. Make things easier on yourself and customers by placing a sticker inside of the shoe with the size and price. Also, try using stretch bands to keep the shoes together. This will keep people from walking out unnoticed, as well as keep pairs of shoes with their respected match.

Keep shoe polish on hand when used shoes come in. Sometimes they just need a good shining to make them look like new. Other things like changing out shoe laces or inserting pads in the bottom can make or break a sale.

How do you maximize sales of pre-owned shoes in your store?

Tuesday Tip: Pay Attention to Trends

Tuesday, September 15th, 2009

You never want your store to become dated when it comes to your merchandise and displays. There are some classic products that will always be profitable but you should keep a close eye on the newest trends and your inventory. This is not to say that you should jump at every pet rock craze that comes along, but it’s never a bad idea to know what your customers are talking about and looking for.

Here are some trends with long term value that might be selling points for you now or in the future.

Go Green
According to the 2009 Cone Consumer Environmental Survey, 34% of Americans are more likely to buy environmentally responsible products today. And 70% indicate that they are paying attention to what companies are doing with regard to the environment right now, even if they cannot buy until the future.

Online Sales
With gas prices still high, consumers are looking to the internet to save themselves a costly drive. If you already have an online store consider offering free shipping for spending over a certain amount or advertise a free gift with purchase. However, if you are thinking about creating a new online store, be prepared to advertise or discount aggressively to drive initial traffic in order to build an online customer base.

Buying American
This is not a new concept, but with struggling economy and the American car industry urging consumers to buy American made cars, some consumers are looking at the tags on other items as well. Look at your inventory and weigh if highlighting some of your American made products could make a difference. However, be cautious of this tactic if the majority of your products are not American made, as it will only highlight that you carry imported products. While there is nothing wrong with imported products, certain customers may not like it.

Health
The boomer generation of Americans that were born between 1946 and 1964 are moving into the senior citizen bracket, 65 years of age and up. With the life expectancy hovering around 80, the boomers aren’t going anywhere. In their retirement they have money to spend and are looking to healthier lifestyles to keep up with the grandkids.

Do It Yourself
People are looking for money savers. Instead of paying someone for labor, some are finding that they don’t mind rolling up their sleeves themselves. If your product is suited to do-it-yourselfers, capitalize on your expertise by hosting workshops. People will buy your products for their project and call on you if things don’t end up looking like the picture.

Have you noticed any current trends that have impacted your business?