The holiday season is a whirlwind of excitement, and for small businesses, it’s the perfect time to shine online! As the clock ticks down, last-minute shoppers are scrambling for the perfect gifts — and they’re ready to spend. 

With the right strategies, you can capture existing and new customers’ attention, ease their stress, and turn their procrastination into your profit. 

Here are some marketing tips to make the most of the final holiday rush:

1. Use Email Marketing for Last-Minute Deals

Send out targeted email campaigns with subject lines like “Still Shopping? We’ve Got You Covered!” Include a mix of bestsellers, last-minute deals, and gift card options to cater to different gifting needs.

2. Leverage Social Media Stories and Ads

Social media is a powerful tool for reaching last-minute shoppers. Post frequent updates on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok showcasing available products, shipping deadlines, and exclusive offers. Use paid ads to target specific demographics for greater reach.

3. Promote Express Shipping and Gift Cards

Last-minute shoppers are often worried about gifts arriving on time. Highlight express shipping options and deadlines prominently on your website and in marketing materials. You’ll also want to feature digital gift cards as a quick, hassle-free solution.

4. Run Flash Sales

Create urgency with limited-time flash sales or discounts on popular items. Use countdown timers on your website and social media posts to encourage immediate action.

5. Highlight “Ready-to-Gift” Products

Bundle items as ready-to-gift packages to save your customers time and effort. Pair these bundles with free gift-wrapping services if possible, making your business the go-to solution for stress-free shopping.

6. Add a “Last-Minute Deals” Section

Make shopping easy by creating a dedicated section on your website featuring in-stock, ready-to-ship items. Use banners or pop-ups to guide customers directly to this section.

7. Share Gift-Giving Guides

Help customers find the perfect gift with curated guides such as “Gifts Under $50” or “For the Person Who Has Everything.” These guides can be shared on your website, social media, and email campaigns.

8. Reward Loyalty

Show appreciation to repeat customers by offering exclusive discounts or free shipping for their last-minute purchases. A little incentive can encourage them to choose you over competitors.

9. Offer Local Pickup Options

If you operate locally, advertise same-day or next-day pickup for nearby customers. This can be a game-changer for those who can’t wait for shipping.

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Last-minute holiday shoppers are looking for convenient and speedy solutions. By focusing your marketing efforts on these areas, you can turn the holiday rush into a golden opportunity. Remember, clear communication and a sense of urgency are key to making your business their go-to choice.

What’s your favorite last-minute holiday marketing tip? Share in the comments!