Started business

Many retailers and shopkeepers are quite receptive to the idea of uniting, and working together to provide discounts to their shared customers. Shopkeepers are beginning to realize that this is the only way for them to compete with bigger retail chains opening up all across the nation. The problem is however, that most shopkeepers simply do not know how to go about doing this. There is a very simple solution however, and one that has already proven to be effective. That solution is a rewards program.

Many credit cards companies and bank issued debit cards are now offering rewards programs to their users. This usually works by rewarding you with points for every dollar you spend using that particular credit or debit card. Points can later be redeemed online for great prizes; anything from gift certificates, frequent flyer miles, hotel room stays, car rentals, even high end electronics, vacations and in some cases, cash back is even offered as a reward. And as a result of implanting such reward programs, credit and debit card companies alike have seen an increase in card usage like never before.

This is an ideal solution for shopkeepers and local retailers to unite, work together, and provide their customers with discounts. By creating some kind of card to distribute to their customers, shopkeepers can keep track of purchases not only at their stores but any “partner” establishments as well. And as you can see, any number of prizes or rewards can be offered in exchange for loyal service.

Things like discount coupons or free merchandise is a great incentive for your customers to get involved in a rewards program, but in order to really appeal to the masses, you are going to have to add something even better. You may want to consider adding in a grand prize, such as a trip or a sizeable cash reward. Perhaps the customer with the most punches on his card, or whoever uses their card their most will win the prize; this can be done on a weekly, monthly, or even yearly basis – whatever you and your fellow shopkeepers decide upon is fine.

While the retail business is indeed a very fierce and competitive one, and it has been for quite some time, it is still not too long to reverse the trend. If shopkeepers in local communities all over the nation can come together to promote unity and cooperation within their area, and provide loyal, local customers with a great discount or a chance to win a nice prize, then it is truly a winning situation for all parties involved. This might even help some local businesses keep their doors open, and stay up and running for years to come.

If you are a shopkeeper, or you work in the retail sector, you can take the initiative to start a program of your own. Get in touch with the executives and managers at your place of business, and make some contacts with the surrounding companies as well. Many times if you can get the ball rolling, the executives will be more than happy to take over once it picks up steam.

For more information on credit cards, visit http://www.citycard.org/

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - How Shopkeepers Can Unite and Provide Discounts to Loyal Customers