Whether your shop sells gifts or clothing or offers spa services, Valentine’s Day represents the first sales bright spot of the year. Use this slow post-holiday slump period to maximize your chances of making a handsome profit on Feb. 14.

Let history be your guide.

If you were in business last year, look at your data to see what products were top sellers. In light of the current supply chain bottlenecks, conduct this review well in advance so that you can get your inventory in stock.

Launch your email campaign.

Hopefully, you are taking advantage of a feature-rich smart terminal that conducts payment processing for your Retail store. For example, its customer management function lets you create a database packed with helpful contact and personal details that you can leverage in marketing campaigns. Now is the time to create Valentine's Day-related emails that entice your loyal patrons to come in or go online to make that niche purchase for the person they love.

Harness the power of social media.

Sites such as Instagram now allow you to link directly to your ecommerce website, so don’t let this opportunity pass you by. Update your text and video content on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, YouTube and any others that your customers frequent to drive traffic to both your physical and digital stores.

Set up your website for that special day.

Shoppers are often pressed for time and fresh out of ideas. Make Valentine’s Day product selection fun and easy by creating a gift guide on your site. If you are launching your ecommerce site for the first time, test out your shopping cart and checkout page. When everything runs smoothly and you can accept online payments without a hitch, your customers will have a positive experience and are more likely to come back in the future.

Stay one step ahead of your competitors with special offers.

Competition for Valentine’s Day sales is fierce. However, there are things you can do to surpass other businesses. Offer free shipping and guaranteed delivery for your online clients. Make the in-store or online purchase even easier and more appealing by offering to gift wrap it. These unique touches just might help you attract more shoppers. 

Prepare your personnel for the rush.

As the big day draws closer, you will probably see an uptick in foot traffic to your physical store, as well as an increase in online sales. Be prepared for both by ensuring that you have what you need to succeed. Organize work shifts to coincide with times when previous years’ sales have been elevated. Also, stock up on shipping supplies. Also, be sure you have all hands on deck to get packages out for delivery in a timely fashion.

Contact your VIP shoppers.

Most likely, you know who your best customers are. You may even have an active loyalty program already in place. Don’t miss this chance to engage these regular buyers, offering them extra deals and personalized incentives that will encourage them to make a Valentine’s Day purchase for themselves or someone they love.

February 14 only comes once each year. Take full advantage of the spirit of this special day by highlighting the things you do best. Offer amazing products that meet your customers’ needs and even surpass their expectations, and you’ll fall in love with what happens to your bottom line.

Contact NAB today and see how easy it is to get the merchant services you deserve.