BFCM attracts customers excited to get great deals, but what happens after the holiday rush? Rather than letting these new customers fade away, use this time to turn them into repeat buyers. By focusing on retention strategies through a loyalty program, you can create lasting connections that go well beyond BFCM. Let’s look at how loyalty programs can help you achieve this.

Key points to keep customers coming back

1. After the sale: Stay connected with new customers

The first step to retaining your BFCM shoppers is to follow up with them after the sale. Using SC Loyalty Rewards, you can automate reminders about points earned during BFCM and encourage customers to come back and redeem them. Here’s how:

• Automated loyalty reminders: After BFCM, send a friendly reminder letting customers know about their points balance and how easy it is to redeem them for future purchases. This keeps your brand top-of-mind and shows customers the benefits of coming back.
• Customer service matters: Make sure your customer service team is prepared to handle any post-BFCM inquiries quickly and effectively. A smooth, helpful experience can make a lasting impression on customers, increasing the chance that they’ll return.
• Build relationships with communication: Whether it’s a thank-you email or a message highlighting what’s new in your store, consistent and personalized communication keeps customers engaged.

Staying connected after the sale is crucial to reminding customers of the perks they received and giving them a reason to come back.

2. Create post-BFCM offers to drive repeat purchases

Encourage your BFCM shoppers to return by offering special post-BFCM incentives. A well-timed offer can make all the difference in turning a one-time shopper into a loyal customer. Consider these ideas:

• Exclusive discounts: Reward your BFCM customers with a discount on their next purchase. This could be a small percentage off or even a free shipping voucher for loyalty members who shop again within a certain period.
• Bonus loyalty points: For customers who make a repeat purchase within the first month after BFCM, consider offering bonus loyalty points. This simple incentive can be enough to bring them back for more.
• Examples of successful post-BFCM campaigns: One brand saw a 20% increase in post-BFCM sales by offering double loyalty points on any purchase made within two weeks of the holiday. Another retailer created an exclusive “Thank You” sale for all BFCM shoppers, growing customer retention by 30%.

These incentives not only reward customers for coming back but also show them the continued value of staying loyal to your brand.

3. Long-term engagement strategies to retain customers year-round

While post-BFCM offers are effective for immediate engagement, building a year-round connection requires a more sustained approach. Here are some ways to keep customers engaged:

• Personalized follow-ups: Use SC Loyalty Rewards to send personalized messages that make customers feel valued. Birthday discounts, anniversary messages, or product recommendations based on past purchases can go a long way.
• Targeted promotions: Offer special promotions to different customer segments based on their shopping habits. For example, you could provide a unique discount for customers who haven’t purchased in a while or an exclusive perk for your top loyalty members.
• Engaging content: Share content that adds value for your customers, whether through emails, social media, or your website. Tips, product guides, or sneak peeks at upcoming products can create excitement and maintain a connection even outside of sales events.

By focusing on building relationships and staying relevant, you can ensure that the customers you gain during BFCM continue to shop with you throughout the year.

Make BFCM last beyond the holiday rush