1.     Xmas Store Front windows and feature displays should be  installed by now . Make sure you change some products in these key areas at least once a week .  This action will say to your customers there is always something new going  on in that store ...  I must pop in.

2.     Front windows and in store signs should be ordered to coincide with  Xmas display installs and promotional time frames. I love using  slogans like - Santa Shops Here, Home for the Holidays,  We've trimmed our prices, We help make Xmas memories , Wrap up your shopping list or Holy Jolly Xmas deals...

3.     Advertising and promotions continue through this time frame, roll out your plans to increase your customer base. Contact customers who shop in your store regularly - by phone, mail or email.   Tell them what's going on and why they need to drop by.

4.     Build your database. It's a very busy time of year but don't forget to capture customers contact info to grow your database.

5.     In store and display window lighting. If you've been procrastinating about this one, now is the time to fix or add at least 30% more light into your store; it will positively affect the way your store looks and help sell more product. In some cases it can be as easy as replacing light bulbs that are burnt out.

6.     Color, my approach to store design is simple use paint to change the mood. Your store should be neutralized with wall colors like Benjamin Moore: Delaware Putty, White Sand or even Bronze Beige. Pick 1 area in your store that you can color block - one of my favorite colors for the Xmas season is Rouge by Benjamin Moore.

7.    Special note about  merchandising - only products that sell well should be on your floor at this time. You should have reports in hand that show you what sold and what didn't from last year. I hope your products reflect what your customers want and will buy. Make sure you are  bringing products out from the stock room daily.

8.    Staff training must continue weekly - focus on selling, product knowledge, store procedures and customer service. I know it's busy but a weekly check-in with your staff is a must. Never stop training; never stop getting feedback from your staff on how things are going.

9.    Daily work plans for every staff member are a must - your goal setting doesn't change when things get busy. It can be even more crucial at this time. I believe if it's in writing it keeps the work that needs to be done in the forefront of your staff's mind.

10.    Packaging - you may want to have parcels leave your store looking nicer than usual. Set up a wrap station.

11.    Tone in the store - this can be many things. I would like to see enthusiastic, happy staff all pulling together to achieve this Holidays Seasons'  goals with a focus on exceptional customer service.

12.    Hands free shopping - offer your customers something to shop with : a basket, a bag or  a buggy. Take your customers coats and other bags, offer to look after them. Do what ever it takes to make your customers feel wanted and cared for. Creating this type of shopping experience  will keep customers in your store longer and will increase sales.

13.     Daily sales targets should be shared with your staff. They should know what's expected of them and what the goals of the store are. You need to create a sales culture in your store.

 14.   Consumers are still spending money. They will be looking for your best price the first time they come into your store this Holiday season.  Lead with your very best price right now,  don't wait  to do the traditional percentage off mark down  as Xmas gets closer.

Wishing you every happiness this Holiday Season and prosperity in the New Year.

Thank you for taking the time to read our Retail Makeover Tips List. Our goal at Retail Makeover  is to help you get the most out of this  Holiday selling season .