A bad location can be bad for business – especially if you rely on customer footfall to make a profit. You could always move to a more prime location, however such a location could be a lot more expensive. Fortunately, there are other ways to attract customers if your store or office is in a low traffic area. Below are just some of the ways to promote a business in a poor location.

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Make your store stand out visually

There are lots of ways in which you can make your store stand out to passers-by. This could in turn attract more people to your store. A few features to consider include:

• Bold signage
• Custom flags
• Custom inflatables
• A unique window display
• Bright colours
• Lights and illuminated signage
• Posters of products and discounts
• LED screens and digital signs

You should consider every angle that people may approach you from. On top of placing signs on and around your property, you may be able to place signs in other locations directing people to your store. For instance, if your store is hidden down a side road, consider asking a local landowner if you can place a sign on the entrance to the side road.

Increase your online visibility

A lot of consumers discover new businesses online nowadays. Consider whether you may be able to make up for your bad location by increasing your online visibility.

This could include pouring money into local SEO. If you own a hotel, you may be able to pay a SEO company to increase your rankings for keywords such as ‘local hotel’ or ‘hotel near me’. It’s also worth signing up for a Google My Business account – this will allow you to get featured on Google Maps and will also ensure that key information is displayed when people search your company name (such as opening hours and contact details).

You may also be able to increase your online exposure by investing in social media marketing. The likes of Facebook allow you to target ads by location. This could be another way of promoting your business to locals.

Cross-promote with local businesses

Cross-promotion involves two separate companies making a pact to promote one another. This should ideally be a company that is closely linked to yours, but not a direct competitor. For instance, a restaurant might cross-promote with a hotel or a physical therapy studio might cross-promote with a gym. You could promote each other by displaying leaflets, displaying posters, promoting each other on social media or even offering coupons or discounts.

Get involved in local events

Getting involved in local events could help you to get recognised within your local community. You may be able to help organise community events such as fetes or festivals, or you may be able to simply sponsor them (and in return display posters and banners at the event). You may also be able to get involved in local business groups and committees – getting to know local influential people could help.

About the Author: Garlak Theodorakis

My name is Garlak Theodorakis, I am graphic designer with almost 10 year experience in the field. Founded Tooft.com in january 2010 with idea to share my knowledge with the world.