Ever notice branded apparel or hard goods at your favorite local restaurant or draft house and wonder how you could create something similar for your shop? Or even if you should bother? Well, you can! And you should. In today’s blog, we’re going to tell you how and why adding branded merchandise to your sales offerings is a smart move that can pay off in exposure and revenue.
Chances are, if you’ve taken care to create better experiences for your customers, many of them will want to be an advocate for you. Other than buying the aftermarket products you sell, one way they can support you—and get something out of it in the process—is by wearing or using merchandise bearing your shop’s branding. Doing so not only marks them as a supporter of your shop but also tells everyone around them what they’re into and what they love, whether that be hot rods, overlanding, off-roading, Jeep life, drag racing, or whatever it is you specialize in. People enjoy talking about what they like, and merchandise is one way those conversations can get started. But if you don’t have those items available, they’ll never get that opportunity.
Don’t be Intimidated
Luckily, it’s much easier and less expensive to get started than you think. As an Aftermarket Websites® customer, you have access to our in-house print shop, which offers short- and long-sleeve T-shirts as well as other items to enhance your sales environment. You can choose from predesigned shirt templates that include your store logo or name on the design and then turn around and offer them to your customers or have your employees wear them around the shop. You might even consider giving away a shirt with every installation or purchase over a certain amount to show your appreciation, which is a great way to generate customer loyalty. In return, your customers will be seen around town in your merchandise, which is always good for business. Email us at help@aftermarketwebsites.com for ordering information! Another option you can try is CustomInk.com, which offers fully custom tees but at varying (often higher) price points.
Expand Your Merch Selection
Custom merchandising doesn’t stop with shirts, either. Other good ideas for branding include hats, keychains, stickers, water bottles, pens, mugs, can koozies, and similar items. Think of these as an investment in advertising. In fact, many of your Aftermarket Websites® peers are already using the platform to sell merch. That’s right: Aftermarket Websites® is fully capable of displaying and selling your branded merchandise. Check out some of the following examples for inspiration:
- Shifted Industries
- Lifted Rippers
- Clemson 4 Wheel
Once you get your custom merch, there are a few things you can do to amp up the presentation. If you can, dedicate some space in your shop to display it; even a few shelves on a slat wall near your counter can do the job. For apparel, get some “lifestyle” photos of you or your employees wearing the items, then upload those shots to your website. If you need any help adding merch to your website, we’ll be happy to help you!
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