The holiday season is winding down, but it's not too late to implement marketing tactics that can give your small business a sales boost before the year ends. Last-minute shoppers are still looking for deals, and with the right approach, you can capture their attention and close more sales in the final stretch of the season. Here are some effective last-minute holiday marketing tactics you can use today to make the most of this crucial time.
1. Run a Flash Sale
Flash sales are perfect for creating a sense of urgency among last-minute shoppers. Offer a limited-time discount or deal that’s too good to pass up. Make sure to promote it across your social media channels and email list to maximize visibility.
Example: “24-Hour Holiday Flash Sale! Get 25% off sitewide—today only! 🎄 Use code LASTCHANCE25 at checkout.”
Tip: Keep the sale period short to encourage immediate action, and use phrases like “limited stock” or “ends tonight” to add urgency.
2. Offer Free Express Shipping
For last-minute shoppers, shipping time is often the deciding factor between purchasing or leaving a website. Offering free or discounted express shipping can seal the deal for customers worried about getting their gifts in time for the holidays.
Example: “Still need gifts? Get FREE express shipping on all orders placed before midnight tomorrow! 🚚🎁”
Tip: Make the cut-off dates for holiday delivery clear in your marketing materials and highlight any expedited shipping options.
3. Promote Gift Cards
When shoppers are truly down to the wire, gift cards become lifesaving. Promote your gift card options as the perfect last-minute solution. Digital gift cards, in particular, allow customers to purchase and send them instantly.
Example: “Running out of time? Give the perfect gift in seconds with our digital gift cards! Available now and delivered straight to their inbox.”
Tip: Highlight the convenience of digital gift cards and how they allow for instant delivery, making them an easy option for last-minute gift-givers.
4. Highlight “Last-Minute” Gift Ideas
Curate a collection of “last-minute” gift ideas to help customers quickly find the right products. These should be items that can be shipped quickly or don’t require shipping, such as digital products or e-gift cards.
Example: “Need a last-minute gift? Check out our Last-Minute Gift Guide! From digital gifts to quick-ship products, we’ve got you covered.”
Tip: Promote this guide on your website, email marketing, and social media to drive traffic to specific product pages.
5. Leverage Social Media Stories and Live Content
With holiday deadlines looming, shoppers are scrolling through social media looking for inspiration. Use Instagram and Facebook Stories or go live to promote your last-minute deals and flash sales. Real-time updates and engagement can help you grab attention and drive immediate purchases.
Example: “We’re going live at 5 PM to showcase our top last-minute holiday deals! Join us for an exclusive sneak peek and special discount code.”
Tip: Use the countdown sticker on Instagram Stories to remind followers of your live session and to build anticipation.
6. Send Cart Abandonment Emails
Cart abandonment emails are crucial during the holiday season, especially for last-minute shoppers. A simple reminder email can push customers to complete their purchases, especially if they run out of time.
Example: “Don’t miss out! Complete your purchase by midnight for guaranteed holiday delivery. Plus, enjoy an extra 10% off with code HOLIDAY10.”
Tip: Include an incentive, such as a discount or free shipping, to encourage customers to return and complete their purchase.
7. Use Countdown Timers in Emails
Add countdown timers to your holiday email campaigns to create urgency. Highlight when a sale or shipping deadline ends to encourage customers to take action quickly.
Example: “Only 12 hours left to shop and get your gifts by Christmas! 🎁 Hurry, time’s running out!”
Tip: Keep your messaging short and direct, and place the countdown timer near the top of the email so it grabs attention right away.
8. Bundle Products for Easy Gifting
Create last-minute gift bundles that make it easier for customers to purchase without thinking too much about individual items. Offer bundles at a discounted price and promote them as ready-to-gift solutions.
Example: “Save 20% when you buy our Holiday Gift Set! Perfect for last-minute gifting—available while supplies last.”
Tip: Create different bundle options based on price points to appeal to various customers.
9. Send a “Last Chance” Email Campaign
Send out a dedicated email to your subscribers emphasizing the last chance to get holiday deals, free shipping, or guaranteed delivery. Use bold CTAs like “Shop Now” or “Don’t Miss Out” to create urgency.
Example: “Last chance! Order by tonight to get your gifts in time for Christmas + enjoy 15% off with code HOLIDAY15.”
Tip: Time your email blasts strategically in the final days before your shipping cut-off or sale end date.
10. Partner with Influencers for Last-Minute Promotions
Partnering with influencers for last-minute holiday promotions can give your brand a quick visibility boost. Collaborate with local or industry-relevant influencers to promote your last-minute deals, express shipping options, or gift cards.
Example: “Check out [Influencer Name]'s top picks for last-minute holiday gifts from [Your Brand]! Use code LASTMINUTE10 for an extra 10% off.”
Tip: Choose influencers who have an engaged audience that aligns with your target customers, and make sure to provide them with a clear deadline for sharing the promotion.
How Shields Digital Services Can Help
At Shields Digital Services, we understand the importance of making the most of every opportunity, especially during the holiday season. We can help you:
Create and promote flash sales
Optimize your email campaigns for last-minute shoppers
Run effective social media ads and contests
Design eye-catching graphics for digital gift cards and last-minute gift ideas
Let us help you boost your end-of-year sales with these last-minute holiday marketing tactics. Contact Shields Digital Services today for expert guidance on maximizing your holiday success.
Keywords: Last-Minute Holiday Marketing, Holiday Sales Boost, Flash Sales Ideas, End-of-Year Promotions, Holiday Gift Cards, Last-Minute Gift Ideas, Express Shipping Offers, Holiday Email Campaigns, Cart Abandonment Emails, Social Media Holiday Sales.
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