| Lucy |
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| #1 |
So what would you say are the yearly trends in this business? SSDW is a new concept here in South Jersey, and I'm in my first year. I hear from the groomers that fall picks up then post-holidays tend to be dead. So far Sept not looking so good, hope I make it to 1 yr. anniversary in Jan. |
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| Theresa |
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| #2 |
Lucy, dont be down.. My shop has been open for one year this past July and believe me we have had our ups and many many downs. Being in Michigan, known for the seasons has net been very good to us. We had a terrible summer with low temps and lots of rain so our business has not done very well. When the sun comes out so do the people to wash their dogs. I have a few groomers at my shop now and that helps a bit. I am not giving up, it is my dream and I will make it work. I have been putting alot more into advertising and am sure it will help. |
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| Beth |
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| #3 |
Lucy
Have you done a marketing plan? How have you invested your advertising dollars? Did you do an analysis after 6 months to see if you put your money in the right place (advertising-wise) or do you need to re-assess and try a different avenue (i.e. Radio, direct mail, etc)?
I'd be interested to hear what you've tried so far!
Beth |
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| Lucy |
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| #4 |
I guess I didn't realize how expensive advertising is. When I ask customers how they found me, 9 out of 10 of them say they live or work nearby. I have ads in a church bulletin and a local business mag which are cheaper than the bigger shopper's guide. I've been to a couple shelter fundraisers handing out my brochures, put my flyers on cars at the dog park, flyers in local vet hospitals. I know it takes money to make money, but I'm not sure where to put it - big newspapers, mail blast, residences mailboxes?? |
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| Erin |
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| #5 |
Go to vets who don't have grooming. I get a ton of business from vet referrals. I'm a groomer looking to ad self serve before the holidays, but thought I'd share how I get a lot of biz. |
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| Erin |
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| #6 |
Sorry pressed reply before I was done. Introduce yourself to vets. Tell them what you're hoping to do for the dog community. Tell them your specials, what retail you sell, what you encourage, support. Offer free or half off to newly rescued pets with proof of adoption. Link on with area rescue groups and tell them their first wash is half off or whatever to get them in the doors. Once they realize it's a heck of a lot easier leaving the mess with you than at home, they'll do it again. At least I know I would. |
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