In order to make a profit, you need to make sure your prices are spot on. We’d recommend considering what your customers are likely willing to pay while also remembering your worth as a company! 

During the early stages of your business, the general public may not share your passion for the product and could be less willing to pay a premium - so it’s always a good idea to test your product/service with an audience to make sure you can set the right price before going into production and deciding what channels to use to go to market.

One of the most important marketing suggestions for small businesses is taking the time to consider the best location for your company. This is where you’ll get the opportunity to interact with your target audience and potential customers. The best channel market can depend, however, on what you’re selling - it could be purely online, or you may require face-to-face engagement.

Do your potential customers need physical contact with the goods? Is there a shelf life that would not suit online sales? If so, a shop may be the best option - although a pop-up shop on a short-term lease is a fantastic way to test the market without the commitment of being locked into a long-term contract. 

You may, instead, opt to test your concept out at a kiosk or stall at a high-footfall destination such as a town and city centre, supermarket, retail park or shopping centre.

Promotion is integral to helping people find out about your business and where they can purchase your products or services. Now, there are many promotional tools for you to consider with your budget in mind.

For example, will you need a website to educate your target audience or act as a selling tool? Will you need to print promotional materials like fliers and leaflets? Do you require PR support to help raise awareness of your service? How about advertising? Consider whether to focus on print, outdoor or digital channels. Is your audience local, regional or national? Will you need a trailer, kiosk, pop-up stand in order to promote and sell your goods?

We weren’t kidding when we said ‘many.’ But let’s get into a little more detail, shall we?

If you are an online business, it is essential to build a website fit for purpose and focus your efforts on SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) and social media to help potential customers to find you. Pay per Click (PPC) on Google is a great way of improving your SEO rating, it is relatively cheap and you probably don’t need an expert to do it for you. 

If you opt for a physical presence such as a pop-up store, kiosk or stand, strong branding is vital. Social media can also be your best friend when it comes to engaging with potential customers. For example, a caterer visiting a number of different events can use socials to let people know where to find them.

Facebook advertising is also a relatively cheap way to help you reach your target audience. Joining Facebook groups can help to promote your business, generate leads, provide help and support and is also a smart way of networking. X, Instagram and Linkedin, depending on who you are trying to target, are also great ways of interacting with your potential customers.

Don’t forget that the easiest and cheapest way to start promoting your business is to begin with your own network. Make sure you tell family, friends, colleagues and relevant groups what you are doing and ask them to spread the word.

Marketing is made up of endless elements that can get overwhelming! But don’t panic; there are specialists who can help you with everything from creating a brand and developing a website to building a kiosk or stand. If you’re looking for a site to base your business, Access Point can find you a promotional space to reach your target audience. 

You can learn more about us on our website or contact us for more information by calling 01704 544999 or emailing hello@apuk.net.