The Mktg Chic

Retail customers thrive on weekly or monthly promotions. There are 3 retail promotions that I believe are the worst because they can be defined as misleading. If your a small retail business owner I would stay clear of these promotions unless your able to fulfill the promises.

1. Free Products (while supplies last) - If your trying to lure consumers in to your retail store I would suggets putting a quantity on the promoted item. Nothings worse then a consumer coming to your store for a FREE ITEM but come to find out its only while supplies last. Trust, customers do not read the fine print! (Ex: first  50 people receive a FREE glitter bag with $20 min purchase)
2. % Off An Item (w/ multiple exclusions) - If your business is planning on taking percents off certain items then do that without all the exclusions. If your bottom line can’t handle this promotion without all the exclusions then try the promotion for another month. Having to find out what the exclusions are is work; customers want to shop not work. 
3. Store Wide Clearance (only on off season items) - This by far is the most misleading. You ever walk into a store and see a huge sign that reads STORE WIDE CLEARANCE but once you enter the store you realize its only on off season items? I do agree that its’s a great way to lure consumers into your store but is it the best way of keeping them? Th best way of handeling this promotions is by stating exactly whats on sale WINTER STORE WIDE CLEARANCE, trust me, real shoppers will purchase anything thats on sale; on or off season. 

 

Marketing needs to be truthful and there are plenty of ways to play with words to lure customers in without lying (yes, consumers believe you’ve lied to them if the promotions are not clear). Which marketing promotions do you believe are the worst?