It Starts With A Bright Idea
August 19, 2011
Filed under: Synergy Merchant Services Updates — 2:29 PM
All it takes is a bright idea. At Synergy Merchant Services, we know that when providing Canadian small and medium-sized business owners with merchant cash advances, that it is only one small step in a much larger process. Attaining the appropriate funding to grow one’s business is of extreme importance. But what good is money without a plan for it?
Sometimes our clients insist that they don’t have any ideas as to what they would use the money for. Our experience has taught us that this is untrue. Now, it doesn’t mean that our clients aren’t telling the truth, it just means that they haven’t yet done the thinking required to properly make use of their merchant cash advances.
The main reason for this, we find, is because prior to participating in our program, these owners felt that getting the extra working capital necessary to get their plans of the ground wasn’t possible. Accruing interest rates, fixed repayment schedules and drops in credit ratings were all fears our clients once had.
But no more! Without those dilemmas to worry about with Synergy, all our customers need to concern themselves with is what to do with the money they will be receiving. As we’ve mentioned in a number of blogs before, a smart business plan is essential. It must be well thought out, including a number of steps.
One of the first, of course, is to determine exactly what type of customer base you would like to target. It’s important to make sure that you are catering your products and services to individuals who can truly use them. You’ll want to make sure that you demonstrate how your company can satisfy their needs time and time again.
If you are endeavoring to begin a new advertising campaign, you will want to be sure to have a call to action. Let your customers know that they will need to visit your store for a full experience. Let them know exactly what it is you offer and how it can benefit them. Using your money wisely will only make you more in return.
Recalls one of our clients: “I remember when I first got my advance, I thought I would just hold on to the money in the event of an emergency. That was a big mistake. I realized that I could be making more money right away. I bought a bunch of new inventory and had a big sale. I got so many new customers, I couldn’t believe it!”
As always, our licensed funding specialists are here to speak to you about your bright ideas. Putting them into action starts with getting yourself a free quote with no obligation to join our program. You’ll be glad you did. Make getting a cash advance the first step in your plan and watch the rest of it be carried out!
Canadian Students Super At Saving
August 18, 2011
Filed under: News — 11:45 AM
Just under a month ago, we blogged about the unfortunate circumstance of students across Canada having a rough go at trying to find summer jobs. Reports had indicated that securing employment – a necessity to help pay for school expenses – was harder than ever in the summer of 2011.
Some good news comes out today, however, as Stefania Moretti of QMI Agency reports that Canadian students are actually quite good at saving their money. A BMO study, released earlier today, confirmed that 70 per cent of the nation’s students worked a summer job this year and 50 per cent of those polled planned on using the money to pay for tuition.
The findings of the study also indicate that most students in Canada charge their expenses to their credit cards. The BMO poll found that 65 per cent of students in college use credit cards for purchases, using them about 12 times per month on average. Among the most popular purchases are clothing, groceries, transit, entertainment and electronics.
Moretti notes, however, that the tell-tale sign that Canadian students are good savers is the fact that 73 per cent of those polled pay their balances off every month. This way, they avoid lofty interest charges, ensuring that they don’t overpay for their purchases. University of Waterloo student, Stephen Lake, admits his parents warned him about how “terrible” interest charges are.
Lake estimates that we will owe at least $10,000 by the time he graduates from university. He is part of the 60 per cent of students who took BMO’s survey and answered the same way. Moretti adds that 63 per cent believe that they will be able to pay their debts off within five years of graduation.
Hopefully, then, Canadian students really do know how to save their money. But are the underestimating how heavy their debts will be? Said BMO’s Su McVey: “It’s not surprising that most students expect to have some debt when they finish their schooling, but we were concerned to see how little debt they thought they would have and how quickly they believed they could pay it off.”
Moretti writes that a Statistics Canada report released last year found that students who graduated in 2005 had average debts of $18,800. Generally, this takes a student about nine and a half years to pay off! It’s unfortunate that there are no cash advance programs for post-secondary education students. Hmmm….
Prepare Your Plans To Expand
August 17, 2011
Filed under: Merchants — 12:13 PM
Over the past several years, the licensed funding specialists at Synergy Merchant Services have discussed numerous options with their clients concerning ways to use their merchant cash advances. Quite often, they will hear advertising, renovations or buying new inventory as ideas. These, of course, are all great.
Some business owners are interested in getting money to open new locations for their stores. Expansion, of course, is a very popular way to grow one’s business. But it certainly isn’t the easiest task to pull off. Sure, you definitely need some money to do it, but it also requires a great deal of planning.
Entrepreneur.com notes that expansion is one of the most significant ways to grow one’s business. On the website, Karen E. Spaeder places opening a new location at the top of her list of ways to gain a wider customer base. She quotes small business consultant, Frances McGulkin when offering up a few tips for anyone thinking of opening a new location.
The first is to “make sure you’re maintaining a consistent bottom-line profit and that you’ve shown steady growth over the past few years.” Naturally, it makes sense to conclude that your business is providing the public with something they want and that increased success can be achieved in a new area.
With that being said, McGulkin advises that you “look at the trends, both economic and consumer, for indications on your company’s staying power.” Obviously, you will want to make sure that your new location is somewhere where there is a need for your products and services. A site where the population is growing is likely ideal.
“Make sure your administrative systems and management team are extraordinary – you’ll need them to get a new location up and running,” encourages McGulkin. As a business owner, you are likely very aware of how important it is to have a strong team. The saying “you are only as strong as your weakest link” certainly applies here.
You will need team members who are adept at completing business plans that will be integral to the success of your business at the new location. This includes obtaining financing. As always, our licensed funding specialists are happy to discuss your options with you. We look forward to helping you expand your business soon!
The Importance Of Investing
August 16, 2011
Filed under: Merchants — 1:29 PM
On the Synergy Merchant Services Blog, it’s quite the normal occurrence to read about the various ways in which entrepreneurs can invest in their businesses. It goes without saying that we believe strongly that putting money into your business is the only way to ensure that it is making even more money in return.
Dawud Miracle, a blog writer in his own right, shares our sentiments as he often provides advice of his own to small business owners looking to grow. On his website, he insists that business owners invest more than just time into their companies if they wish to see any substantial growth.
He believes that if owners do not invest in their own businesses, it should not be expected for customers to invest in them either. Surprisingly, Miracle has found that many entrepreneurs are not exactly willing to put money into advertising their own brands. Long-term plans are necessary, he says, and this part of business-building is often overlooked.
Writes Miracle about the hesitant business owner: “Sure, they might buy productivity or marketing products or hire out projects like website design. But they seldom have a longer-term plan beyond the project scope. And seldom do they consider an ongoing marketing or promotion budget for the growth of their business.”
His response? You don’t have to spend a lot of money to invest in yourself. But it is imperative that entrepreneurs utilize whatever budget they have to help push their companies. It is important to spend money on your company or no one else will! At Synergy, we often discuss ideas with our clients about what they will use their merchant cash advances for.
Of course, there are numerous ways to use money to help grow businesses. Advertising is one of the most popular. Renovations, expansion, buying new equipment and buying new inventory are also popular choices. Are you investing in your business? What are you doing to ensure that others spend their money on you?
Asks Miracle: “What gives? How can you grow a business if you’re unwilling to promote it? How can you increase your revenue if you don’t invest some dollars into marketing? I’m not talking about thousands upon thousands of dollars each month. I’m talking a few hundred or thousand or whatever fits your budget.”
Contact one of our licensed funding specialists today to discuss ways in which Synergy’s merchant cash advance program can help you invest in your business. Join the many small to medium-sized business owners across Canada who are discovering that the first step to increased profits is just a phone call away.
Back-To-School Shopping Season Is Here
August 15, 2011
Filed under: Merchants,News — 8:31 AM
With August now at its halfway point, students and parents across Canada are undoubtedly gearing up for the upcoming school season. And while students are likely trying not to think about it, their parents have no choice but to consider buying clothing and supplies for their kids.
As Stefania Moretti of QMI Agency pointed out in an article published last week, this is the time of year that is considered the second most important for Canadian retailers. With the Christmas holidays being the most important, the end-of-summer back-to-school shopping season is generally expected to be the next busiest one.
Moretti notes, however, that this year is expected to be a little lighter than usual. Consumers, she writes, have less to spend than normal. According to a prediction by Ernst & Young, this year’s back-to-school shopping season will follow the trends of the bad spring and summer period.
According to the the firm’s Daniel Baer, consumer confidence is low. Said Baer: “Although lower than their peak levels, higher gas and grocery bills have reduced consumers’ disposable income, as inflation continues to outpace salary increases.” Evidently, consumers will be looking for significant discounts during their back-to-school shopping this year.
Naturally, Synergy Merchant Services would recommend that business owners across Canada come up with inventive ways to draw in customers before the school year gets going. Special sales need to be advertised and stores need to promote themselves in ways that help them stand out from their competition.
Have you thought of ways to get more customers into your store considering that spending may be slower than normal for this time of year? Retailers who sell school supplies should especially be weary of this situation. Moretti writes that Staples Canada has taken notice by having a number of back-to-school items priced at under a buck to attract parents who are watching their wallets.
Moretti also points out that “the good news for Staples and others is that stores that cater to children and students are somewhat shielded from the spending slowdown, since parents tend cutback on their own luxury items to ensure their kids don’t go without the basic classroom necessities.”
Secure Your Own Success Story
August 12, 2011
Filed under: Merchants — 3:52 PM
In yesterday’s blog, we quoted a few words from some of our favourite clients who shared their thoughts on the types of attitudes necessary to be successful business people. Not surprisingly, when you are confident in your company and positive about your plans to grow, success is imminent.
But as we mentioned, the recession that hit a couple of years ago made things tough for business owners all over Canada. And although the small business sector has been heralded as a major contributor to the nation’s ability to bounce back, some business owners are still skeptical that things will ever go back to normal.
At Synergy Merchant Services, we are very proud of the fact that our merchant cash advance program has assisted small business owners across Canada to reach levels of success they never before experienced. We spoke to some of these owners earlier this week to get their thoughts on what it took to reach these new heights.
“It was all about planning,” responded one entrepreneur, “When the crisis hit, I knew I had to do something different to stay afloat. Some thought I was crazy, but I took a merchant cash advance to buy as much inventory as I could. My plan was to buy enough stock that I would get an incredible deal from my supplier.”
“After my purchase,” he continued, “I was able to put the merchandise out on sale for discount prices. Because of the low cost I paid, I was still able to turn a profit on these items. I knew that customers would be interested in saving as much money as they could and I knew my prices were hard to beat at the time. It ended up really helping me out.”
As we mentioned yesterday, it really is all about attitude. It may sound cliché but the idea of finding that “silver lining” or looking on the “bright side” is really important in today’s ever-fluctuating economy. A merchant cash advance then, is only as good as the idea and the planning behind what it is used for.
Although you may still be in a position where you are concerned about spending any money on growing your business, know that it also doesn’t benefit your business to not think of ways to expand it. As always, Synergy is here to discuss with you the ways in which you can not only rebound from the recession, but bring your business to never-before-seen levels of success.
It All Starts With A Good Attitude
August 11, 2011
Filed under: Merchants — 3:51 PM
It seems as if every day when you open the newspaper – or go online, more likely – there is a story about the economy. On some days, you get the news that Canada is rebounding nicely from the recent recession. And on others, it appears as if our nation is a long way from finding its financial footing.
Perhaps, it depends on who is providing the news. Then again, maybe it all has to do with your perspective on what financial success is. This perspective is likely different for people all over Canada. Business owners, of course, have strong opinions about the state of the national economy which are derived mainly from their own successes.
“It hasn’t been easy,” said one of our clients earlier this week, “But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try your best to overcome (the recession). Working hard has always been a major part of being successful, so you there’s no need to stop now. I’ve always worked at making my business successful, recession or not.”
At the end of the day, one can only do so much to help his or financial situation not head towards a dire destination. There are, however, certain individuals who allow bad news to affect them negatively. A negative reaction, naturally, is expected when bad news is heard. But having a defeatist attitude is another thing altogether.
“When the recession hit, I have to admit that business slowed down dramatically,” another of our clients told us, “It got me pretty upset. I can honestly say that I spent several weeks complaining about it, instead of thinking of ways to fix the situation. I regret that time now, but I’m so glad things have turned around.”
One of the reasons we have been speaking to our clients about their current financial states is because we enjoy maintaining strong relationships with them. After all, the more successful our clients are, the better it is for our business as well. It’s important to note, however, that growing a business is always a tough task, no matter what state the national economy is in.
But when you’re a business owner in the midst of a nation’s rebounding process, the task is even tougher. “It requires a good attitude,” continued the once downtrodden entrepreneur, “Feeling bad about it certainly isn’t going to help you any. Getting yourself back on your feet begins with your own sense of determination.”
In tomorrow’s blog, we’ll take a look at how Synergy’s merchant cash advance program has helped determined clients to not only bounce back from the recession, but become more successful than ever. Feel free to find out how our program can help you grow your business by calling one of our licensed funding specialists today!
Targeting Common Advertising Mistakes
August 10, 2011
Filed under: Marketing and Advertising — 5:34 PM
It probably goes without saying that effective advertising is an extremely important factor in running a successful business. At Synergy Merchant Services, our licensed funding specialists often discuss the various ways that our clients may use their merchant cash advances to advertise their businesses.
You could have all the money in the world, but if your are not putting it towards well thought-out marketing plans, then it will all go to waste. On Entrepreneur.com, Jane Porter writes of the three mistakes that some business owners make when advertising their businesses. Avoiding these mistakes may prove very beneficial for your company’s bottom line.
The first mistake, writes Porter, is when business owners do not know the return on their marketing investments. It’s important that entrepreneurs take the time to figure out what they will be receiving in return for the money they are spending on their advertising campaigns. There must be a specific result attached to the marketing plan.
Porter notes that some businesses owners mindlessly pay regularly monthly dues to publications who run ads for them. They do so, however, without gaging just how much money those ads are bringing back in return. In some cases, the marketing techniques are outdated. For example, business owners who have gone from running magazine ads to focusing on online promotional strategies have found that their sales increase.
In addition to keeping up with the times, however, it’s important to not rely too heavily on your sales team. This is the second big mistake that many business owners make, says Porter. She writes that when sales are slow, many owners put pressure on their sales teams to pick things up.
Citing the opinions of Kevin Daum, a New York-based marketing consultant, Porter highlights that a sales team is only as good as the information provided to them. For example, the sales pitch, company brochures and website should all carry a consistent message that is effectively communicated throughout.
Mistake number three says Porter is when “your website reads more like an ad than a helpful resource.” It’s important to connect with your customers. Quoting David Meerman Scott, a Lexington, Mass.-based marketing strategist, she writes that “if your website showcases only product features and pricing, you’re missing a huge opportunity to connect with potential customers.”
Said Scott: “The biggest problem that small businesses do again and again is focus way too much on their company…and not enough on the problems and needs of the people they are trying to reach.” Give Synergy a call today to discover more ways that we can help your advertising money work for you.
Be In The Know
August 9, 2011
Filed under: Finance, Banking, Etc — 5:01 PM
It’s no secret that Canadians enjoy making payments for their purchases using credit and debit cards. Of course, this is great news to clients of Synergy Merchant Services as they are able to take advantage of their future credit and debit card sales by turning them into merchant cash advances.
Many consumers find it wise to use their credit cards because of the many points and rewards programs that are available. It only makes sense to get something back if you are able to, any time you plan on spending money. Credit cards also give you the freedom to pay over time – not that we recommend it.
Obviously, the way that interest works on a credit card is not much different than how interest works on a bank loan. The longer it takes you to pay off, the more you will end up paying. One of the greatest advantages of Synergy’s merchant cash advance program is that there is no fixed repayment schedule.
As a result, our clients never have to worry about any interest accruing on their outstanding balances. It’s important to know exactly how much you’ll be paying for something before you commit to an agreement to pay for it. That’s our philosophy, here at Synergy, and it has done wonders to put the minds of our clients at ease.
The same approach can work equally well for consumers. Before making a purchase, it’s imperative that you understand what it is you are committing to. Will there be any additional charges other than the purchase price? Remember that in the event you are paying for a service and you have to make monthly payments, your charges may fluctuate.
With Synergy’s merchant cash advance program, our clients make automatic payments based on a percentage of their Visa, MasterCard and Interac sales. This way, we ensure that there is no chance that the payment is unachievable. Our clients also know that they will never pay a penny more than what they originally agreed to.
It’s always a good idea to be in the know. This is why we offer free, no obligation quotes here at Synergy, so that our potential clients are in the know long before agreeing to participate in our merchant cash advance program. Give one of our licensed funding specialists a call today and know how much money we can get your business!
New Low For Canadian Jobless Rate
August 8, 2011
Filed under: News — 4:18 PM
Just a couple of weeks ago, we blogged about an article that revealed that the summer of 2011 was one of the hardest ones in recent history for students to find jobs. Necessary for the payment of tuition among other school fees, the summer job is generally depended upon by students each and every year.
Even though it appeared as if there was sign that the jobless rate may spike, last week it was reported that Canada’s unemployment rate actually dipped last month. Falling to 7.2 per cent, the jobless rate is the lowest it has been since December 2008, according to a Reuters article by Randall Palmer.
In the article, Palmer reveals a Statistics Canada report that found that the economy created over 7,000 new jobs in July. There was a significant growth in the full-time and private-sector fields of employment. Canada’s economy, it seems, continues to strengthen and become a beacon of hope for the future.
Said BMO Capital Markets deputy chief economist, Douglas Porter: “We saw solid full-time gains, the private sector accounted for all the job gains and surprisingly the unemployment rate fell. Overall, I would actually characterize this as good news, even though the headline employment number was a bit below consensus”
Some of the strongest gains in July came by way of the construction, transportation, warehousing and retail and wholesale industries, writes Palmer. Health and education, however, experienced losses. He also notes that the annual increase in hourly average wages for permanent employees fell as well, going from 2 per cent in June to 1.2 per cent in July.
The numbers are modest but do show Canada being on a promising track. As has been mentioned numerous times, Canada is a world leader when it comes to its economy’s strength. Since the recession was considered over, the nation has done a remarkable job in having its citizens reclaim jobs.
As always, the Synergy Merchant Services Blog will keep on top of the nation’s financial story, just as our licensed funding specialists keep on top of helping their clients grow their businesses. After all, without Canada’s small businesses, there would be a lot less jobs to offer Canadians.
Take Advantage Of Appropriate Advertising
August 5, 2011
Filed under: Marketing and Advertising — 5:46 PM
In yesterday’s blog, we began to take a look at some important questions to be asked and answered by Canadian business owners who plan on advertising their businesses. With help from a Roy H. Williams article on Entrepreneur.com, we reviewed a few important steps to take before spending money on an elaborate advertising campaign.
As always, Synergy Merchant Services encourages its clients to put their merchant cash advances to good use. Advertising, being one of many great ways to use money to make more money, is a venture not to be taken without precaution. We will revisit Williams’ list of important advertising questions in today’s blog.
“How long is your time horizon?”, asks Williams. He writes that “some ads build traffic, some build relationships and others build your reputation. If you don’t have the financial resources to launch a true branding campaign focused on building relationships and reputation among potential customers, you’re going to have to settle for traffic-building ads until you can afford to begin developing your brand.”
“What is the urgency of your message?” In some cases, merchants wish to produce immediate results. If this is the case, your ad will need to communicate a time-sensitive approach to visiting your establishment. For example, a limited-time offer that will encourage customers to visit quickly so as to not lose out on an opportunity.
The next question is “What is the impact quotient of your ad?” Often, one’s ad can be judged by how it compares to the ads of competitors. It’s important to determine just how much of an impact your competition’s ads are having. How powerful are their messages? You may want to consider using media that has not been used by your competition to corner another section of the market.
Finally, “How long is the purchase cycle?” asks Williams. He writes: “How long it will take your advertising to pay off is tied to the purchase cycle of your product. Ads for restaurants work more quickly than ads for sewing machines, because a larger percentage of people are looking for a good meal today than are looking for a machine that will let them make their own clothes.”
Advertising your store is always a great idea. But before delving into your advertising campaign, it’s important to answer these questions to ensure you are making the most of the money you spend on it. Call one of our licensed funding specialists today to discuss some ideas and figure out just how much money your business will be approved for so you can started on advertising your business!
Answer Your Advertising Questions
August 4, 2011
Filed under: Marketing and Advertising — 5:46 PM
There are so many different things that Canadian business owners may do with the money they receive from Synergy Merchant Services’ merchant cash advance program. One of the many benefits of the program is the fact that our clients may do just about whatever they like with their money. Unlike with a bank loan, no specific business plan is required.
However, there is an obvious importance that should be placed on the plans for the money. This week, we have been blogging about the ways in which renovations can add new life to your store, bringing in new customers as you continue to impress your old ones. Advertising is also a go-to solution to building your business. But it’s imperative that you do it the right way!
On Entrepreneur.com, Roy H. Williams discusses ways to build a successful advertising plan. We writes that in order to advertise your company successfully, there are a number of questions that need to be answered first. It is not just about how much money you are spending on your advertising campaign, but it’s about how much money you intend on making back.
The first question to be answered, according to Williams, is “What do you have to say that matters to your customer?” He insists that you should be able to make your customers care about your business whether they are interested in your products and services or not.
Customers tend to ignore ads that do not speak to them directly, he writes. It’s all about your message, not the medium you choose to communicate it. Don’t assume that the consumer has any knowledge of your brand, be sure to grab the attention of anyone who comes into contact with your ad.
Second question: “Can you say it persuasively?” Sometimes, less is more, Williams reminds us. Try not to say too much or this will render your ad ineffective. As well, be sure not to leave out important details. Sometimes an “all-encompassing” ad speaks to no one. He cites “We Fix Cars” as an example of a “terrible headline for an ad”.
“Are you speaking to a felt need?” asks Williams. Instead of simply stating that you fix cars, can you communicate that you specialize in a specific type of car care? How can you prove that you are an expert in your field with respect to specific vehicles? Show that you know what you’re talking about and pinpoint your target market by clarifying your expertise in 2002 BMWs, for example.
We’ll complete our look at these advertising questions to ask yourself in tomorrow’s blog.
Making Your Renovations Work For You
August 3, 2011
Filed under: Merchants — 4:52 PM
In yesterday’s blog, we discussed a few ways that business owners can renovate their stores without losing any customers. Naturally, many entrepreneurs fear a dip in business when closing their doors to the public during the renovation period. Robert Thomas of QSR Magazine writes that a shut down isn’t always necessary, but if so, there are ways around making it a detriment to the business.
Thomas mentions that when closing your doors, the renovation process must be a speedy one. In addition, the renovations must be financially feasible. Of course, this is where Synergy’s merchant cash advance program comes in so handy. It provides merchants across Canada with the money they need to get the job done.
Obviously, this is important, as Thomas reminds business owners that employees have to be considered during the renovation process. He admits that we wouldn’t have been able to pay his employees if he had shut the doors of his business during the renovation period.
Keeping his doors open while reimaging his store not only meant that he was creating a buzz among his customers, but he was keeping his staff happy and motivated. He noticed an “increase in morale and work ethic because they knew that with this reimage, with the potential of more customers and more money, they would be rewarded as well.”
Finally, Thomas insists that you “rely on your franchisor”. This advise, specific to those who own parts of franchises, contends that you should “make sure to get complete support from corporate. A lot of the times, it’s their decision anyway in regards to a new look.”
Franchisees, mentions Thomas, often wish to be in complete control. However, utilizing advice from the corporate office can be very beneficial, if not mandatory. At the end of the day, all parties involved want to make more money. And if your renovations are done quickly and properly, making more money will be the end result.
Writes Thomas: “If you’re looking to make more money, they will offer nothing but support. Both parties have the same interests and can mutually benefit one another.” Be sure to contact Synergy Merchant Services to find out how you can get the money you need to begin renovating your store!
The Key To Successful Renovations
August 2, 2011
Filed under: Merchants — 4:54 PM
Renovating is often listed as one of the top reasons that Canadian business owners get money for their companies. We’ve spoken often, here on the Synergy Merchant Services Blog, about the benefits of sprucing up your store to keep your customers coming back to an establishment that is always “fresh”.
It’s important to communicate that you are not willing to settle. Staying ahead of the competition means being innovative and ever-changing with the times. Meeting the needs of your customers sometimes means making your store as inviting as possible. This may require several makeovers.
The thing is, many business owners fear that the expenses involved with renovating may prove to be too costly to continue turning profits once they are done. Last month, in a QSR Magazine article by Robert Thomas, it was explained that a merchant can renovate his or her store in ways that will help gain new customers without losing old ones.
“Go big or go home,” insists Thomas right off the bat. He contends that, when renovating, one should go for a complete change and a fresh look. Speaking from personal experience, Thomas recalls reconstructing the interior of his store completely. This gave him more space that could be better utilized.
When completely making over your store, it is likely you will have to close your doors for some time. The resulting lack of business during the renovation period is also something that worries many entrepreneurs. Thomas indicates that he didn’t want to close his doors during the renovation of his store.
He notes that customers live a “habitual lifestyle” and shutting the doors to your business may cause them to shop elsewhere. He decided to keep his doors open so that the customers could see the changes themselves. It became one of his most valuable marketing opportunities as it created reasons for customers to tell others about what was going on at his establishment.
It is okay to shut your doors for a short time if you can afford it, assures Thomas. He does note that in this event, construction does need to be fast. It may seem excessive, he admits, but your renovators practically need to be working non-stop until the job has been completed. We will take a look at a couple of other renovation tips in tomorrow’s blog.
Think Ahead To Get Ahead
August 1, 2011
Filed under: Marketing and Advertising — 11:46 PM
With August now here, the halfway point of summer is practically upon us. School will be starting up again in about a month and many parents are starting to think about getting their kids some new clothing for the fall. For the most part, children are not even thinking about school yet. But that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t be thinking ahead.
As a business owner, you have undoubtedly learned that staying ahead of your competition quite often means thinking ahead. Beating your competitors to the punch is the name of the game if you want to stand out as a leader in your industry. So naturally, clothing retailers should be stocking up on fall clothing by now.
What are other ways that you can stay ahead of the competition? For the most part, a good advertising campaign would help. It’s one thing to have the products available to your customers before they need them. It’s another thing to let them know that you have them at unbeatable prices.
This is where a merchant cash advance can be of great service to you. When you have the extra working capital necessary to buy inventory early, you can often get a great deal on the items. When the time comes to put the merchandise on the floor and promote a sale, you will turn great profits.
For some business owners, getting the cash to purchase inventory early and advertise is tough. Many of our clients have shared their grievances about dealing with banks over the past few years. Getting a merchant cash advance, however, is a quick and easy process. So, of course, one of the primary benefits of our program is how timely it is for our clients.
But secondly, because they can get the money quickly, business owners across Canada are able to put their forward thinking into action. Getting new inventory long before the season arrives – for example, fall clothing in the summer time – is a surefire way to ensure that your customers’ needs are always met.
One of our most successful clients makes use of a merchant cash advance before each and every winter season. His store, known for selling top-of-the-line winter jackets, is always fully stocked during the fall. Members of his community know to visit his store for the latest fashions. They are always treated to good deals as well.
This is because of the great deals he gets by buying the jackets well before the winter. Getting the merchant cash advances allows him to buy loads of inventory that helps him to have successful winters each and every year. Another benefit to the program, of course, is that there is no fixed repayment schedule.
That way, our esteemed client makes easy payments throughout his winter through the sales of the jackets. He pays off the advance by spring and is on his way to another successful year. Year in and year out, this is how he keeps his business growing. You can do the same. Think ahead, and give one of our licensed funding specialists a call today!
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