By Caryn Smith

The economy… it was a major issue in the last election and with its rollercoaster drops has caused average consumers to hold tightly to their wallets. Shoppers seem to be cutting back on everything that isn’t a necessity. So where does that leave retailers as they approach the holiday season? After all, the day after Thanksgiving, better known as Black Friday, kicks off the time of year when many businesses make the majority of their profits. Retailers are expected to drastically cut prices this season, but they still have to advertise sales to draw in consumers.

Customized lapel pins can make a big impact on your holiday sales without putting a big dent in your budget. They’re high quality, which makes them more like jewelry than buttons or stickers. They can be custom-created in every style and design imaginable, making them a perfect match for sales or holiday events. Best of all, they’re inexpensive compared to other forms of advertising. Just look at some of the ways they can make a difference in your business.

Promote Specials and Sales with Lapel Pins

Because lapel pins can be made into any shape and with any color, they’re a great idea for sales associates who need to promote holiday specials. Lapel pins showing the company logo with copy such as "Ask About Our 25% Off Specials" are sure to get attention not only in the store, but anywhere the associate wearing your pin happens to go. It’s a walking advertisement. If your business offers a lay-a-way policy, use lapel pins to let consumers know. Someone who can’t afford an item today might be willing to purchase it if they can make payments over time and not pay interest.

Spread the Word

In the service industry? Try using lapel pins to bring in new clients. Have holiday pins made with your logo then give them to your regular customers. If those customers give their pin to someone who becomes a new client, they both get a discount. This can work for hairstylists, manicurists, pet groomers and countless others. If you sell cookware, jewelry or other items via in-home parties, give holiday lapel pins out with each order. When your customers wear their pins, it gives them the perfect opportunity to share what they like about your product with others. It’s a well-known fact that word of mouth is the best advertisement of all.

Lapel Pins Boost Holiday Giving

Lapel pins work wonderfully for nonprofits as well. They can be given to contributors to help increase holiday giving and to say thank you for past and future support. Having a holiday bazaar or other program? Order lapel pins that advertise the event and pass them out to members of your organization. Wearing their pins when they’re out and about is a perfect way to spread the word and promote ticket sales. You may even want to give lapel pins to customers for buying tickets early, or for buying a certain number of tickets.

During this holiday season, when everyone is trying to make the most of their money, businesses and consumers alike win with the use of lapel pins. Businesses enjoy increased sales without enormous advertising expenses, while consumers benefit from reduced prices and give-a-ways. Try lapel pins for your group or business this holiday season and see what a difference they make.