The holiday season is just around the corner, and of course for retail stores, that means it's time to stock up on all sorts of bulk retail supplies, such as tissue paper, bags and boxes. Store owners often disagree about providing gift boxes free of charge for customers. Around the holiday season, though, you might find more reason to provide this service.
Offering gift boxes along with a purchase may be one way to increase customer loyalty. Boxes can be hard to come by around the holidays – many people try to reuse the ones they had last year, or have to invest in a bunch of gift bags. Getting packaging from the retailer makes the whole gift wrapping process much easier and eliminates one holiday stressor.
If you don't want to offer free gift boxes, you might consider offering a gift wrapping service to customers. Stock up on wrapping paper and wholesale ribbon in addition to boxes in preparation for the season – many people will likely take advantage of this service, even if it does cost them a little more. You may be able to advertise these services by offering free gift wrapping on all purchases over a certain amount, such as $50.
You should always offer some type of gift box along with a gift card. Gift cards can be difficult to give – people usually have to stick them inside a greeting card so the recipient has something to open. Help your clients by offering gift card boxes specially designed for cards. Whether you leave them plain to allow for gift wrapping or choose printed boxes for the cards, customers will likely be thrilled they have the right size box for this gift.
