How Local Businesses Can Drive Footfall
From retail parks to online shopping, competition is fierce, and shoppers are changing how and where they spend. But by blending tried-and-tested street-level tactics with a smart online presence, local businesses can draw more attention and turn it into foot traffic.
Here are 15 practical, low-cost ideas that any small business can try. They’re clear, beginner-friendly, and proven to make a difference.
1. Set Up and Maintain Your Google Business Profile
When people search for your shop or what you sell, your Google Business Profile is often the first thing they see.
Make it count:
- Include correct opening hours (even for bank holidays).
- Add at least five photos: one of your shopfront, one inside, and a few of your products or services.
- Write a short, punchy description in under 250 characters, what makes you special?
- Respond to every review within 48 hours.
This builds trust and boosts your chances of appearing on maps and local searches.
2. Update Your Window Display Every Two Weeks
Most people decide whether to step inside within three seconds of walking past. A well-thought-out display can stop them in their tracks.
Try this rhythm:
- Pick a simple theme, like a seasonal product, local event, or service.
- Put one standout item at eye level, with a clear price tag visible from two metres away.
- Use soft lighting in the evening to keep it inviting.
- Stick to consistent fonts and colours to build recognition.
3. Run Short, Snappy Micro-Events
Mini events work wonders, without draining your team.
Examples:
- A 30-minute knife-sharpening demo at a cookshop.
- A quick obedience lesson from a local dog trainer at a pet store.
- A bookshop “speed-review” circle where customers share their latest reads.
Keep them under an hour. Post the details on local Facebook groups or noticeboards to spread the word for free.
4. Offer Click-and-Collect with a Bonus
Click-and-collect brings online convenience to your doorstep. Sweeten the deal when they arrive.
Offer:
- A loyalty card with one stamp already filled.
- A 5% discount on anything they buy in-store during pickup.
A small perk often leads to extra purchases.
5. Create a Simple Loyalty & Referral Scheme
You don’t need an app or software, just a stamp card.
Try this:
- One free item (worth under £5) after 10 stamps.
- An extra stamp for bringing a first-time visitor.
- Keep cards visible at checkout so customers remember to join.
6. Team Up with Your Neighbours
Collaboration saves effort and draws bigger crowds.
Ideas:
- Create a “High Street Passport” with nearby cafés and shops. Customers collect stickers to enter a prize draw.
- Partner with a local theatre to offer pre-show dinner deals.
Together, you offer more reasons for people to visit.
7. Make Directions and Parking Crystal Clear
Many customers skip a visit if they’re unsure how to get there.
Wherever you appear online (website, social media, confirmation emails), include:
- A small map.
- Nearest bus or train stops, with walking times.
- Closest car park and current rates.
Make it feel easy to drop by.
8. Use Local Features on Social Media
Location tags and local hashtags boost your visibility in area-based feeds.
Try this weekly schedule:
- Monday: Post a behind-the-scenes Instagram Story with your location tag (e.g. “Durham City”).
- Wednesday: Share a product video using local hashtags (e.g. #Tynesdiemums).
- Friday: Run a poll asking what weekend deal people want.
Respond to every comment quickly to build both online engagement and real-life visits.
9. Create a Seasonal Street-Side Moment
Even small touches outside your door can invite people in.
Ideas:
- Free samples on a table during warm weather.
- A bubble machine during school holidays for toy or kids’ shops.
- A hot-drink station during winter late-night openings.
Little gestures go a long way in grabbing attention.
10. Set Up a Photo Spot to Boost Shares
Encourage customers to take and share photos with a dedicated spot inside your store.
What helps:
- Good lighting for clear, flattering shots.
- A quirky prop or branded backdrop.
- A sign that invites people to tag your account.
Every tagged post spreads the word to their friends and followers.
11. Hand Out Mini-Guides with Local Tips
A small printed leaflet positions your shop as helpful and community-minded.
Include:
- A walking route from the train station.
- Great nearby cafés and lunch spots.
- Cashpoints and public toilets.
Customers often keep and share these, extending your presence beyond the visit.
12. Join Local Campaigns and Awards
Look out for “shop local” weeks, small business awards, and campaigns by your council or chamber of commerce.
Getting involved:
- Brings free publicity.
- Gets your name on trusted lists and directories.
- Shows locals you’re part of the community.
13. Collect Emails In-Store with a Tablet
Set up a simple sign-up form at the counter, perhaps tied to a prize draw or freebie.
Use free email tools to send:
- Early notice of sales or events.
- Seasonal updates and special opening hours.
- Exclusive in-store vouchers.
A direct line to customers helps you stay top of mind.
14. Track Your Footfall – the Easy Way
You don’t need tech. Just keep a notepad by the till.
Each hour, staff can mark how many people come in. After a few weeks:
- Extend hours if evenings are busier than expected.
- Try holding events during slower periods to spread traffic.
Small insights lead to smarter decisions.
15. Support Local Causes That Matter
Sponsor a youth team, donate prizes to a raffle, or provide refreshments at a local event.
Display your involvement, a framed team photo or poster helps show your support.
Customers appreciate it, and community goodwill often turns into loyalty.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need a big budget or expert knowledge to grow your local presence. Start small: pick one tactic, test it, and tweak based on results.
By combining real-world engagement with a consistent online presence, any independent business, across the wider North East, can start turning browsers into buyers and footfall into growth.
