Who says card sales are down because of texting and social media?
Our sales of Valentine’s Day cards are up 65% on the same period last year. This is data up to Friday last week and it’s off of good numbers for 2013.
With our card sales up 15% for the first five weeks of this year compared to 2013, the Valentine’s Day result is even better. We are promoting the season on the lease line with a good range facing out into the mall. It’s checked and refreshed every couple of hours.
It’s for major seasons like Valentine’s Day that shopping centre based newsagents have an excellent opportunity to attract infrequent or first-time shoppers. Tis is where placement of an excellent range on the lease line and laid out to facilitate easy browsing are the keys.
Mark, our card sales overall are up, but Valentines cards have been great, we have already exceeded last years sales as of last Sunday. I think the fact we changed to Hallmark last year and the Maggie Beer hamper is helping drive sales. People are even asking if they can buy the Hamper but once they realise it is a competition they buy a card. Now I am starting to wonder if Maggie Beer products may be a line I should carry on a small basis as customers are saying there is no one carrying her products in any of the surrounding towns.
Gregg,
If you’re thinking about carrying Maggie Beer I’d consider pitching it as more a gift line. The price points are very high for food.
Jarryd,
that’s where is was thinking of putting it. I am very surprised at the interest and most people who no her product have commented on the price but also mention the quality and was I going to carry it in future. This is what has me interested in looking at carrying some of the products.
Expecting a good Valentines this year with FRIDAY being the best possible day for it to fall I think.