Marketing Ideas to Boost Summer Sales for Small Businesses

Summer presents a unique marketing challenge for small businesses to engage customers, increase visibility, and drive sales. It’s a slow time for many small businesses as warmer weather, vacations, and seasonal habits all influence buying behavior.

Of course, for some seasonal industries (like tourism or hospitality), business is booming during the summer months.

Whether your sales heat up or cool off in the summer months, many small businesses would benefit from trying a few strategic marketing strategies during the summer.

Build Strong Customer Relationships

A personal connection goes a long way, especially in an age when many people struggle with loneliness. Use the slower season to connect with customers through personalized emails or phone calls to express gratitude and gather feedback.

Consider sending handwritten thank-you notes to your loyal customers, thanking them for their business and loyalty.

Leverage Digital Platforms

Lean on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok to run seasonal campaigns with engaging content like videos, giveaways, collaborations, and how-to’s.

For example, a local bicycle shop is hosting a "500 Mile Challenge," inviting participants to log their summer bike rides in the Strava app. Anyone who completes the challenge will receive a $50 gift card and a t-shirt.

Build Strategic Partnerships

Don’t be afraid to get creative and partner with other local businesses to encourage people to get out and about. More folks are open to trying new things and having fun experiences in the summer months.

Think of opportunities like scavenger hunts, progressive dinners through several local restaurants, "ice cream shop crawls," and other fun, interactive experiences your customers might enjoy.

Use Geo-Targeted and Mobile Ads

With people on the go during the summer months, mobile-first advertising becomes more effective. Platforms like Google Ads and Facebook enable geo-targeting, allowing you to reach customers based on their current location. This is especially useful for restaurants, local retailers, or tourism-driven businesses.

Consider experimenting with mobile promotions, such as "Show this ad for 15% off today!" to drive foot traffic.

Strategic Promotions Do Work

Thoughtful, strategic promotions can actually bring in new business and strengthen relationships with existing customers.

Seasonal Deals: Offer discounts or special promotions tailored to the current time of year. For example, if you’re experiencing an uncharacteristic heatwave, consider offering creative discounts tied to the thermometer’s reading. "If the temps go above 95 degrees on Tuesday, July 10, our store will offer XYZ deal!"

Clearance Sales: Run a clearance sale on excess inventory or bundle items to encourage larger purchases.

Prepare for the Busy Season

If your small business slows down during the summer months, use this time to prepare for your busy season.

Build your content calendar: Plan and schedule your marketing content for the coming busy season.

Review your processes: Take advantage of the slower time to streamline or optimize your operations.

Early Payment or Scheduling Specials: Offer incentives for customers to book services or make advance purchases.

By tapping into the energy and rhythms of summer, small businesses can foster strong customer relationships and boost revenue with the right strategies. From limited time offers to community events and mobile promotions, these tactics help small businesses stay competitive and thrive during the summer months.

Works Cited

https://www.forbes.com/councils/forbesagencycouncil/2019/08/30/fighting-the-summer-slowdown-13-marketing-tips-to-get-consumers-attention/

https://blog.constellation.com/2020/07/17/small-business-marketing-tips-for-slow-summer/

https://www.sba.gov/blog/2024/2024-06/5-tips-could-make-your-small-business-summer-sizzle

https://dailybulldog.com/business/navigating-slow-seasons-creative-strategies-for-small-businesses/