The large national chains that dominate the market, small hardware stores sometimes difficult time to be competitive. The key is to find a unique selling proposition of the business and take advantage of it, so customers see the value you choose more than one of the larger stores. Here are some good ways to do business stand out.

1. Giveaways When the store first opened (or even if it & # 39; just looking for an extra push) offer a small gift that customers purchase. These are the tools and products they use, which are branded store & # 39; and information hammers, tape measures, levels, etc. If a customer uses the product, and you run out of something, or determine that you need to visit the hardware store, they & # 39; see the data and immediately go your way!
2. In-Store classes -Hardware stores often form a bit of a culture and a social atmosphere, so find a way play this up. A great choice to sponsor training courses and seminars at the store. Work with the manufacturers to provide information that customers find valuable. Even employees can instruct these classes are nothing less than a complete remodeling, home improvement products. Class I & # 39; providing for the month above the cash registers is a large vinyl banner can be seen that clearly informs customers the opportunity to expand their knowledge.
3. Charity Donations -Offer products to charitable groups City and organizations that build and repair homes for the less fortunate. This is great PR for your business, it makes you a more authentic, and in return you & # 39; often able to advertise in the domestic spot a yard sign or banner. When customers see that & # 39; and giving back to the community, they are more inclined to buy you.
4. Ladies Night -The most hardware stores predominant market men. While most customers probably male, do not neglect the ladies. Host "Ladies Night" in-store offers educational classes and even a special discount on purchases by women. Use removable window clings to the store a little feminine. There & # 39; and a huge potential market that is somewhat in-utilized and the right approach to female customers can dramatically affect your business.
5. Personal shoppers -Some customers complain that the hardware or DIY stores vast. To counteract the opposition of personal shopping service to customers. Products have been working daily to customers located in anyway, but it is an official program of the revenue opportunity. Customers are an employee directed them around the store and help them find what they need in a project, or even, more convenience, staff can pre-select products that they need to when the customer arrives, all you have to do is check it out.

Source by Michael K Allen