Big-box stores own Black Friday. Small Business Saturday belongs to everyone else. This year it falls on Nov 28, and it's a full day of customers going out of their way to support the businesses in their own neighborhood.
Here's how to make the most of it and turn local pride into long-term members.
Tell People You're Local
Many drivers don't know who owns the wash they pass every day. Small Business Saturday is the day to tell them. Put up signage that says it plainly: locally owned, locally operated. If you're comfortable, have the owner on the lot that day greeting customers. Nothing reminds people they're supporting a neighbor like shaking that neighbor's hand.
Turn Your Lot Into a Local Showcase
Invite a few nearby businesses to set up on your property for the day. A coffee truck, a bakery table or a local florist with holiday arrangements gives customers a reason to stop and linger. Your partners get exposure to your traffic, and you get exposure to theirs.
While customers linger, your attendants have time to talk about membership.
Cross-Promote With Your Neighbors
Team up with shops down the street on a simple shop-local retail trail. A customer who shows a same-day receipt from a partner business gets a discounted first month of membership. With EverWash, attendants apply that discount at the lane. In return, your partners hand out your rack cards at their registers.
It costs almost nothing, and it puts your wash in front of customers who already value buying local.
Bring the Business Owners In, Too
The owners and employees of nearby businesses drive past you every day. Offer a few complimentary memberships to key partners, which EverWash can set up for you. A business owner who washes with you becomes a word-of-mouth ambassador.
Some of those relationships can grow bigger. Businesses with company vehicles are natural candidates for a fleet program, so ask us about EverWash Fleet.
Thank the Locals Who Already Chose You
Your current members are the neighbors who support you all year. Recognize them on Small Business Saturday with a free add-on, a treat at the exit or a simple thank-you sign. Appreciation is cheap, and it's one of the best retention tools you have.
Spread the Word
Most of the magic happens on your lot, but a little outreach helps. EverWash can let your members know about the day's events by email, SMS and app push notification.
Small Business Saturday is one day. The relationships you build with neighbors, partners and new members can last for years.
Want help growing your membership as a local wash? Book a call with our sales team.
About the Author
About EverWash
Get unlimited car washes for one low monthly price - all from the palm of your hand. EverWash partners with your neighborhood's local car wash to bring you unlimited-use, all-you-can wash, monthly membership plans starting as low as $9.95 per month.
Stop paying every time you get your car washed. Discover a better way to wash your car. An unlimited-use monthly car wash membership is the most cost-effective way to keep your car looking its best every single day. It's like a gym membership for your car!
With nearly 1,000 locations nationwide, EverWash has a car wash and membership plan for you. What makes EverWash great?
- Save Money - Unlimited washes at a fraction of the pay-per-wash price.
- Unlimited Use - Wash your car as often as you want. Wash every single day if you'd like!
- Membership Options - Choose a local car wash & unlimited plan that works best for you.
- Month-To-Month Memberships - Cancel anytime. No commitment. No strings attached.
EverWash has been featured in major consumer and industry publications and media. Download the EverWash app at the App Store or Google Play and start saving today!
