Weather Woes some simple ideas to help make it through weather related traffic downturns.

As a small business owner, you have control over many aspects of your operation—your product and service mix, business hours, staff training, layout, merchandising, marketing, and more. However, one thing you can’t control is the weather. Winter in Kansas can be unpredictable, with snow-covered roads, freezing temperatures, and school or event cancellations all impacting customer traffic. While you can’t make the streets clear or the temperatures rise, you can implement strategies to keep your business thriving even in tough weather conditions.

Incentivize the Brave: Reward Customers Who Venture Out- If customers are willing to battle the cold to visit your business, make it worth their while! Offer exclusive “snow day” discounts, free hot beverages, or a small gift with purchase for those who come in during bad weather. A simple social media post like, “Snowy roads won’t stop us! Come in today for 10% off any purchase and a free cup of cocoa!” can be all it takes to entice loyal customers.

Make Online Shopping & Delivery Easy- When people are reluctant to leave their homes, having an online ordering option or offering local delivery can keep sales flowing. If you don’t have an e-commerce site, use social media or a simple phone-in order system to sell products. Consider teaming up with a local delivery service or offering curbside pickup to make shopping effortless for your customers.

Adjust Your Business Hours When Needed- Monitor customer traffic patterns during winter weather and be flexible with your hours. If evening sales drop off significantly due to cold temperatures, consider shifting opening hours earlier or promoting “lunch break” specials. Likewise, if schools are closed, adjusting to accommodate parents who may be out and about with their children can lead to extra sales opportunities.

Leverage Social Media & Email Marketing- When bad weather hits, your customers may assume your business is closed. Be proactive by updating your hours, sharing special offers, or simply reminding people you’re open. Quick posts like, “We’re open and toasty warm inside! Stop by for a cozy shopping experience and enjoy 15% off all winter gear today!” can work wonders. If you have an email list, send out a quick reminder with promotions or new arrivals.

Host Indoor Events or Flash Sales- Create a reason for customers to make the trip! Hosting winter workshops, product demonstrations, or pop-up events can make your business a destination, even in chilly weather. If snow keeps people away one day, counter it with a “make-up sale” the next. It is important to drive people to your storefront when comfortable gaps in the weather emerge. Engaging events and limited-time deals create excitement and urgency that drive foot traffic.

Enhance In-Store Comfort- Make your store an inviting escape from the cold. Have a warm and well-lit space, offer warm drinks, and ensure your entrance is clear of snow and ice. Little touches like coat racks, hand warmers, or a welcoming scent (think cinnamon or vanilla) can make a big difference in customer comfort and time spent in your store.

Partner with Other Local Businesses- Team up with neighboring businesses to create bundled promotions. For example, a coffee shop could partner with a bookstore to offer “Warm Up & Read” deals, or a boutique and a salon could offer “Winter Refresh” packages. Cross-promotion expands your audience and encourages community support.

Prepare for Last-Minute Gift Shoppers- Winter weather can disrupt holiday shopping plans, so be ready for the rush when conditions improve. Stock popular gift items, offer easy grab-and-go bundles, and remind customers about gift cards—an easy option for those hesitant to shop in person.

Encourage Customers to Plan Ahead- If a big storm is on the way, use your marketing channels to encourage customers to shop before the weather hits. “Stock up before the snow! Stop by today to grab your winter essentials before the roads get icy!” helps boost sales while providing helpful reminders.

Stay Positive & Engaged- Customers appreciate businesses that maintain a sense of community, even when the weather is rough. Share uplifting social media posts, engage with customers online, and show your resilience. A fun snow-themed post or a behind-the-scenes look at how your team is handling winter can keep your brand top-of-mind.

Embrace Winter—Don’t Let It Freeze Your Sales!- Winter weather doesn’t have to mean slow business. With a little creativity and proactive planning, you can turn snowy days into sales opportunities. By keeping your customers informed, making your space inviting, and offering incentives to visit or shop online, your business can stay strong all season long.

Let’s make winter work for us, Emporia! What’s your favorite winter sales strategy? CLICK HERE and let us know your thoughts!