As the countdown begins, we are proud to share our ‘12 Ways to Christmas 2020’ campaign, all about how our retail community is celebrating Christmas with a Covid difference this year.
With the excitement of the Melbourne Cup behind us, today marks the official start of the Christmas 2020 retail season. We know that this festive season will be significantly different from previous ones, and we have already seen some very innovative and brilliant ideas coming to life to engage customers, drive spending and keep both customers and employees safe.
During our ‘12 Ways to Christmas 2020’ campaign, we’ll unveil top tips, research insights, predictions and data. Keep an eye out on our social media accounts, weekly Retail Voice newsletter and Retail News blog for the campaign content – and while we’ve got you, we wish you a prosperous and safe Christmas season!
Here is an overview of the upcoming ‘12 Ways to Christmas’ tips:
12. Tell customers you’re COVID-safe
Covid safety is a big focus for many customers this Christmas – particularly with an expectation of large crowds. Retailers have put a huge amount of work into their Covid safety plans – it’s important to continue to remind customers these plans are in place and how they can work with you to stay COVID-safe. We will share some communications tips to help spread the news. Read here.
11. Easy access – customer transport and parking options
Whether it is by public transport, owned vehicles, Uber or taxi – safe, convenient transportation for our staff and customers is vital this Christmas. We have compiled a list of the transport options for retailers to share with their customers and staff. Read here.
10. Promote borderless giving – with gift cards
When getting our stores (online and physical stores) ready for Christmas trade don’t forget the benefits of gift cards for loved ones. With so many families still separated due to travel restrictions, gift cards are a simple and fast way to share the love. We share some smart ideas regarding gift cards. Read here.
9. Click and collect – best practice tips
Many retailers have successfully used click and collect shopping options during COVID-19 to minimise contact between staff and customers. Many customers will expect this option as a permanent shift – particularly during busy periods. For this top tip, we will be sharing insights into how to effectively run best practice click and collect. Read here.
8. Small and local? Get involved
We’ve all done it tough this year and our small and local businesses have put in some of the hardest yards. We see you! There are many campaigns SMBs can get involved in to get their name out there, increase traffic and build communities. We’ve found some of the best for you. Read here.
7. Bring the buzz back to CBD shopping
CBDs have borne the brunt of COVID-19 lockdown and restrictions, with limited visitor traffic. Now the buzz is back with many local government’s getting behind a CBD event strategy push. With less crowds likely in city locations, now’s a great time for retailers to promote their CBD stores as safe, open for business Christmas shopping locations. Read here.
6. Santa pics the COVID-safe way
The family tradition of getting Santa photos isn’t immune to COVID restrictions. Santa hotlines, socially distanced photos and Santas wearing masks will become common practice this year to not only keep us all safe but keep the spirit alive. We share some of the best Santa ideas from around the world. Read here.
5. Encourage customers to shop early, ship early!
E-commerce sales will likely rise this Christmas compared to previous years. Along with providing a seamless online shopping experience for customers, it’s important to remind them of postage cut off dates for both standard and express shipping. Read here.
4. Follow the music – what’s on near you?
As Aussies get their shopping mojo back, music and entertainment offerings are an important way to elevate the festive vibe. Whether an upbeat Spotify soundtrack or live carollers, we share some of the entertainment options helping Aussie shoppers get in the Christmas mood. Read here.
3. Promo your Xmas trading hours
Many stores are changing their trading hours to accommodate increased Christmas shopping activity. Keeping social distancing in mind, we share what to expect from stores around the country and how to effectively promote your businesses’ updated Christmas trading hours. Read here.
2. Have fun with gift wrapping and packaging ideas
As Christmas day draws closer many of your customers will be thinking about the finishing touches for their presents. We share some inspirational last minute gift wrapping and packaging ideas that your customers will love – and how some retailers are keeping it COVID-safe. Read here.
1. Giving back – charitable ideas that engage
Giving back has been a theme this year with many Aussies having a tough experience through bushfires and the pandemic. We share inspirational charitable ideas that retailers are adding to their store experience to help customers celebrate those in need this Christmas. Read here.
