You must consistently deliver:
Soliciting feedback builds loyalty, too. Everyone loves to give their opinion – that’s why social media has flourished. But when you ask for it, you’re creating a sort of partnership with customers. And when you act on their suggestions to improve or expand services or merchandise lines, they will be ecstatic.
Create a formal loyalty rewards program.
These programs work, but only if your loyalty program actually adds value. It has to be easy to understand and use, with rewards that are desirable and attainable. This point is critical, because you won’t generate loyalty if customers don’t actually use your program.
Offer informal, open-to-everyone promotions and incentives.
Make buying more meaningful. For example, your pet supply store could donate to the local shelter every time a certain product is purchased.
Bring customers together for a value-added, in-store event. For example, your sporting goods store could host a gear swap (with plenty of new merchandise featured, too).
Provide incentives at checkout that encourage repeat buying. That could be a discount on their next purchase, but greater creativity will bring you greater response. So offer goodies your customers cannot get from competitors. Things that give them added value, such as:
Create a “wheel of fortune” that customers can spin before they check out, to perhaps win an instant discount or gift.
What’s the simplest – and best – incentive of all?
Saying thank you. Presumably you thank customers as they leave your store. But you’ll really wow them if you send out a random email that says, “Thanks for being our customer.” You don’t even have to attach a gift. Sending a birthday greeting is an even more personalized way to reinforce your relationship with loyal customers.
Whatever you do, make it all about your customer to spark maximum loyalty.