How to Market to Last-Minute Holiday Shoppers

It’s no secret that the holidays boast impressive sales numbers every year and 2018 is no exception. This year, retail sales are expected to top $1.1 trillion with $128 billion of those sales being made online. The internet remains the lead shopping destination, with 57% of sales expected to occur through various online channels. Many brands are focusing on digital efforts to reel in holiday shoppers and their work isn’t done yet. Last year, 53% of consumers planned to shop on the last Saturday before Christmas and the last-minute shopping trend isn’t going away anytime soon. Here’s how you can market to those last-minute holiday shoppers:

Get in Their Inbox
We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again: The power of email marketing is undeniable. Studies show 82% of consumers will be influenced by promotions this holiday season, which makes email marketing a no-brainer for brands targeting last-minute shoppers. Whether you’re sending emails to a specific target audience or engaging the masses, making consumers aware of holiday promotions and sales can be accomplished with the click of a button.

For the best results: Include a catchy subject line, graphics for your promotions, and convenient call-to-action links to make shopping for the perfect gift a breeze.

Use Social Media to Your Advantage
A whopping 47% of consumers will take to the web this season to get inspiration for holiday gifts and that includes scouting social media platforms like Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram for ideas.Social networks are perfect for setting your brand apart from countless competitors; offering the space to personalize content, highlight popular products, share gift guides, promote last-minute holiday deals, and more.

For the best results: Put some money behind your promotions.Advertise on social media to drive traffic to your online shop or website.

Go Mobile
More and more consumers are making the choice to skip the in-store crowds and embrace the benefits of online shopping. According to the NRF, 71% of consumers plan to use their smartphone or tablet to make a purchase this holiday season. Mobile shopping is appealing because of its convenience, which rings even more true when considering last-minute shoppers. With a simplified online selection, options for text updates on orders, and 24/7 availability – mobile shopping is ideal for anyone who’s short on time.

For the best results: Make sure your online shop and/or website is mobile-friendly. Consumers expect their mobile shopping experience to be quick and efficient.

The holidays are quickly approaching and it may be getting down to the wire, but keep in mind – holiday sales account for more than one-quarter of annual retail sales in U.S.. Let’s not count those last-minute shoppers out just yet!

Business House specializes in data-driven digital marketing solutions for businesses, like yours. If you’re interested in learning more about marketing your business for the holidays and more, contact us today.