How independent opticians can shine on Small Business Saturday

Small Business Saturday is an excellent opportunity for independent opticians to showcase their unique value and connect with their communities. Celebrated on the 7 December this year, this day encourages shoppers to support local businesses. Here’s how you, as an independent optician, can make the most of this special day.

1. Emphasise Your Local Roots

Your community is your strength. Use Small Business Saturday to highlight how your business supports the local economy. Share your story on social media and in-store materials to remind patients why shopping locally matters.

  • Press release: Send a press release to your local newspaper.
  • Email marketing: Send out a newsletter explaining your contribution to the community, such as employing locals or sponsoring events.

2. Offer exclusive deals and packages

Entice customers with limited-time offers. Whether it’s discounts on frames you are phasing out or a complimentary eyewear cleaning kit with every purchase, create a sense of urgency to visit your shop on Small Business Saturday.

  • Social media: Advertise your offer in advance to bring in custom.

3. Host an event

Turn shopping into an experience. Events encourage foot traffic and allow you to engage with customers,

  • Ideas:
    • Frame Styling Consultations: Offer personalised advice to help patients choose the best frames for their face shape and lifestyle.
    • Raffles and Giveaways: Raffle off a pair of designer sunglasses or a voucher for a future purchase.

  • 4. Collaborate with Other Local Businesses

    Partner with neighboring small businesses to create a community-wide buzz. Cross-promotions can attract shoppers from one store to another.

    • Partnership Ideas:
      • Team up with a local coffee shop to provide free coffee for your visitors.
      • Create a trail where people visit your store to collect a clue.

5. Leverage social media and online presence

Digital marketing is essential for driving awareness. Use your platforms to advertise your participation in Small Business Saturday and create engaging content to encourage visits.

  • Content Ideas:
    • Share customer testimonials showcasing the personal touch of your service.
    • Post before-and-after photos of customers who found their perfect frames.
    • Run a social media contest, such as “Snap a Selfie in Our Shop” for a chance to win prizes.

6. Decorate your windows

Draw attention to your business with eye-catching decorations that scream “We’re celebrating!” Balloons, banners, and festive window displays can attract passersby. Remember to enter our window display compeition!

7. Show appreciation to loyal patients

Recognise and reward your regulars on this special day. Small gestures of gratitude can go a long way in building long-term loyalty.

  • Ideas:
    • Handwritten thank-you notes for purchases.
    • Special discounts or a loyalty program signup bonus for returning patients.

8. Promote eye health education

Use this opportunity to reinforce your expertise. Offer tips on eye care or explain the benefits of high-quality lenses and frames.

  • Ideas:
    • Host a short workshop on proper eyewear maintenance.
    • Share informative handouts about blue-light protection or UV-blocking sunglasses.

9. Follow up after the event

Keep the momentum going by following up with customers who visited. Send thank-you emails, offer post-event discounts, or invite them to future events.

Small Business Saturday is a golden opportunity for independent opticians to stand out, foster community connections, and grow their customer base. By blending creative promotions, engaging events, and personalized service, you can make this day both memorable and profitable.

Remember, it’s not just about selling products – it’s about celebrating your role in the local community. So, gear up for a day of fun, engagement, and success!

small Business Saturday ideas

Back to blog