MARKETING TIPS FOR SELLING BOXED CHRISTMAS CARDS

We have seen Boxed Christmas cards work in the city and country, high street and mall. Success flows from active engagement:

BEFORE THE CHRISTMAS SEASON.

1. Ensure you have the right stock. We recommend you stock from at least 3 suppliers - all with a charity connection.
2. Go out early - ideally by August. Pitch in 2 locations: front of store and mid through the store. 
3. Boxed cards do not have to be on purpose made fixtures. They can work well on a table.
4. Keep all religious cards together as they often sell better early in the season.
5. Change the location during the season, disrupt shoppers.
6. Ensure the display is always tidy and easily shopped.
7. From when you first place boxed cards on the shop floor, at least weekly promote one pack on social media. Include photos of the designs. Talk about why you like them.
8. Consider a multi-buy offer: three for $XX or four for $XX. The goal here is to get people buying more than would usually be the case.

DURING THE CHRISTMAS SEASON.

1. Traditionally, this kicks in mid-November and runs to December 24th. 
2. Place all boxed cards in the best traffic location in-store.
3. Check the display at least daily, so it looks like new stock has arrived.
4. Keep the display full.
5. Maintain a thoughtfully selected range at the counter. Keep updating the mix every few days.
6. Stack boxed cards between your two top selling newspapers if you can squeeze in the room.
7. Place boxed cards between your two top selling weekly magazines.

AFTER THE CHRISTMAS SEASON.

1. December 26 and beyond.
2. Go out with a half price offer.
3. Displays should be basic, nothing pretty.
4. Buy specifically for this.
5. Run the sale for at least two weeks.
6. Even with non discounted cards you will make something from such a sale and it will most likely not affect sales next year.

MARKETING TIPS.

1. Promote to local nursing homes. Offer to host a party where you bring stock to them.
2. Offer teachers a discount.
3. Offer local business owners a deal if they buy more than 10 boxes.
4. Send cards to your best customers thanking them for their business.
5. Create a stunning window display promoting boxed cards.
6. Talk up card giving on your business Facebook page. Here are some ideas:
   1. Many families have wonderful Christmas card traditions, what are yours?
   2. A card is a keepsake for many people. They store it away as a memory to cherish for years. This year, give a card because it will be loved longer than a text message.
   3. People will love that you took the time to write on a card.
   4. Every card you give is another pebble in the pond of life. The more pebbles you throw the more love and warmth of heart you share.