With so much competition in the alcohol (wines and spirits) market it can be tough to separate your store from other establishments. Big supermarket chains and distributors likely offer many of the same products, and customers are able to pick up these items during their regular shopping trips. As a wines and spirits store owner, you will need to ensure your store stands out from the rest. Here are the tips to get you there.
With so much competition in the alcohol (wines and spirits) market it can be tough to separate your store from other establishments.
Killer displays.
Fill your wines and spirits store with the latest products, like a brand new flavor of vodka or a new seasonal twist on a favorite beer. The perk of your store selling primarily alcohol means that the people coming through your doors are there for a reason, not to browse and leave empty handed. Keep everything arranged in a way that makes sense, have a wine section and separate reds and whites and then whittle it down to types and regions. Keep vodka together by brand, as well as scotch, whiskey and other liquors. Blow up palm trees, tiki torches (unlit of course) and limes next to your display of holiday beers will put customers in the right frame of mind to purchase the products you are showcasing.
Host tastings.
Hosting a wine or beer tasting is an excellent way to get more customers through your doors. This is also a great way for you to get to know the local clientele a little better and create a loyal customer base. You can coordinate with new brands to have their merchandizers showcase the new products plus tasting in your store.
You can even sacrifice a bottle of wine that you want to promote and encourage walk-in customers to taste a sample. This is likely to provide a reason for them to buy the product, even if it is on their next visit. During tastings, you can also provide giveaways if available. Again, a good relationship with your distributor will enable you to get freebies to incentivize our customers.
In your market research, find out what else customers would buy from you. Think about what goes hand-in-hand with what you sell.
Be active on social media.
Even if your liquor store does not have a website, it is important to have an online presence of some kind. Set up a Facebook page for your business and share any upcoming events you are having, new products you have in stock and provide some fun tips, like recipes for the perfect cocktail. You can also share other related and interesting content – not forgetting any new offers.
Suffice to say, people spend approximately 2-3 hours on social media daily and therefore you have to be present and active. Let your walk-in customers know your social media handles and encourage them to follow you. This will provide a good forum for direct engagement. You must also be very prompt in responding to messages or comments on your social media pages.
Offer More than Liquor
In your market research, find out what else customers would buy from you. Think about what goes hand-in-hand with what you sell.
If it’s wine – you’re likely catering to a large female audience. First, there’s the obvious – wine bottle openers and wine stoppers. Don’t forget about wine glasses (find unique options) and cheese. You can branch out and sell cheese boards, various crackers, and other food options that may go well with what you sell.
If you are more of a beer and liquor store, think of the standards – salty snacks, soda for mixing, beer glasses, and shot glasses. Many beer and liquor stores are also a bit of a convenience store. Selling ice, lottery tickets, candy, and even cigarettes all typically do well in liquor store