Furniture stores have developed a reputation for their marketing strategy: one sale for every holiday imaginable, no payment for 90 days, or no interest for 3 years are commonly used promotional tools to drive sales. These certainly work, but they’re not exactly unique. If you’re new to the furniture market or looking for a way to stand out from the crowd, you’ll want to choose something that doesn’t involve Uncle Sam or Santa Claus. Here are some great options.

1. online classifieds-Websites like Craigslist and eBay have made the process of selling classified ads online very easy. Customers turn to these places to view merchandise before entering a store, so list your product here to reach them! Hire a part-time employee to photograph your merchandise for inclusion on these sites, or you can even outsource the work to a company designed specifically for the task.
2. In-Store Training-Hanging in-store training classes or seminars is a great way to reach the home improvement market. Bring in interior decorators to discuss home staging, decor selection, or even remodeling tips using your merchandise. These types of classes add value to your store and customers see you as more than just a transaction-based business – you are part of their lifestyle. Promote these events by hanging a vinyl banner outside your store listing the dates and times of each class.
3. barter-Consider adding a customer exchange program to your store, where the customer brings in their old furniture and receives a credit towards the new merchandise. If the furniture is in good condition, you can create a used section in your store for great deals. If it’s not in resalable condition, you can donate the furniture or at least dispose of it for your client. Again, this is one way to make your store a convenience provider and encourage customers to remain loyal to you. Include this service on your store windows using vinyl decals.
4. new houses-Create a partnership with a local real estate agent, broker or home builder. Since homes always sell better with furnishings, offer to feature their new homes with your merchandise in exchange for referrals. You can also add a sign on each home to let customers know where the furniture comes from should they want to purchase it with the home or at least shop your store for a different selection. Some real estate agents might even want to purchase a piece of furniture directly from you as a housewarming gift for its new owners!
5. try before you buy-This bold strategy offers customers the opportunity to “try on” their furniture, so to speak. Selected customers can try the furniture in their home for a predetermined period of time to determine if they want to buy it. Although this should not be offered by all of your products, as it could become a logistical nightmare, can be an effective way to boost sales. After all, if it’s up to the customer to take the furniture home and return it, they’ll most likely keep it. Make sure you have a vinyl sticker on your register that clearly explains the rules of the program so there are no problems.