When the summer season begins, many people start planning vacations, spontaneous weekend getaways, and barbecues. Families and friends spend fun-filled afternoons by the pool or at the beach. Meanwhile, many business owners shift their focus, gearing up for the summer months ahead—planning promotions, assessing inventory, and thinking of ways to drive sales.
If you own a small business, it's never too early or too late to prepare for summer. In this Huddle Business Capital blog post, we share ten essential summer tips for business owners.
1. Review summer demand.
Every small business, industry, and market experiences seasonal fluctuations in its unique way. Some companies are located in areas that attract tourists during the summer, while others may see a decline in sales as potential customers go on vacation. To estimate how your business will perform this summer, take a look at your sales results from previous summers. This can help you better prepare for the upcoming season.
2. Adjust staffing levels.
You should consider adjusting staff levels based on previous summer performance. For example, if your business saw increased sales and foot traffic last summer, you will need to maintain enough workers to accommodate the expected number of customers. You might also consider hiring temporary employees to support your team. This can help ease the burden on your full-time employees during the bustling summer days and ensure that customers receive prompt service.
3. Offer flexible scheduling.
The summer months are a time when many people make plans. With longer days filled with sunshine, individuals and families often schedule summer vacations, attend sporting events, or pursue new hobbies that can be enjoyed in the warm weather. Therefore, it is beneficial to offer flexible scheduling options. Granting your team the freedom to take time off can boost morale and show your employees that you value their contributions. Plus, it can help you retain your best employees.
4. Manage inventory.
It is vital to have adequate inventory during the summer months. One way to anticipate demand is to review your sales results from previous summers and the first half of the year. This will give you a good idea of your most popular items to stock up on. If you have any items that are not selling well or are outdated, consider running a summer sale to reduce excess inventory. In addition to helping drive sales, this can free up space for new inventory that you purchase for the fall and winter months.
5. Promote summer offerings.
There are countless products and services that appeal to consumers during the summer. These include outdoor recreation gear, sports equipment, summer apparel, air conditioning units, outdoor furniture, lawn care services, pest control, and vacation rentals. If your small business offers these or any other summer-centric products or services, consider running a promotion to increase awareness and encourage sales. You can promote your summer offerings on your website, via social media, and in targeted email campaigns to individuals who have opted in to receive your emails.
6. Prepare for hot weather.
As the temperature outdoors rises during the summer months, it is crucial to take the necessary steps to protect your business property and assets from the risks associated with heat exposure. This involves having an electrician check your electrical systems to ensure that all wiring and equipment are functioning optimally. If your inventory includes items that are sensitive to heat damage, such as food, beverages, cosmetics, electronic devices, vinyl records, or artwork, careful planning is essential. Consider investing in a backup power generator in case of a power outage.
7. Protect your employees and customers.
The soaring temperatures of summer can pose health risks to both your employees and your customers. To create a comfortable, welcoming, and safe environment, it's crucial to maintain a steady indoor temperature with a high-quality air conditioning system. A pleasant indoor climate offers relief from the outdoor heat for your employees and customers. Moreover, it can help prevent heat-related concerns such as heat exhaustion, dizziness, and fatigue.
8. Invest in outdoor heat reduction solutions.
If your business operates outdoors or has designated outdoor spaces, such as an equipment lot or patio, ensuring the comfort and safety of your employees and customers in the heat should be a top priority. Consider investing in canopies, covers, and misting systems to create a more pleasant environment for everyone involved. Taking these steps safeguards health and enhances the overall experience of employees and customers alike.
9. Hire a pest consultant during the summer.
Lots of pesky bugs and intrusive rodents appear during the summer months in towns and cities nationwide. To ensure your small business remains pest-free, hire a qualified pest consultant. They can inspect your business inside and out, recommend treatments to address pest issues (if detected), and suggest solutions to prevent potential infestations. Thishelps ensure your business stays clean and safe for your employees and customers.
10. Finance your summer investments.
If you need to invest in your small business this summer, whether it's by purchasing inventory, hiring part-time workers, or upgrading your air-conditioning system, to name a few, there are financing options to consider. Huddle Business Capital, for example, offers working capital loans, equipment financing, and equipment leasing through our network of top-tier lenders. These financing solutions can help you manage your cash flow while making necessary summer improvements.
Disclaimer.
This Huddle Business Capital blog article is purely educational and contains general information and opinions; it is not intended to provide advice or recommendations of any kind.