How can small hospitality and retail businesses prepare for Mother’s Day?

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Statista reported that the UK spent £1.28 billion on Mothers Day in 2023. This means more foot traffic, higher demand, and increased sales opportunities for your business. But how can small businesses make the most of this busy season without spending a fortune?

Here are four simple and cost-effective ways hospitality and retail businesses can prepare for Mother’s Day.

 

How can hospitality businesses make the most of Mother’s Day?

Restaurants, cafés, and bars can expect a surge in customers leading up to and on Mother’s Day. It’s important to be prepared to make the most of this opportunity.

1. Create a special Mother’s Day menu

A great way to attract customers is by offering a limited-time Mother’s Day menu. This doesn’t need to be complicated or expensive. A simple set menu or a few exclusive dishes can make the day feel more special. For example:

  • A café could offer a Mother’s Day afternoon tea deal with cakes and sandwiches.

  • A restaurant could introduce a special two or three-course meal for families celebrating together.

By having a set menu, businesses can also reduce food waste and keep service running smoothly.

2. Offer pre-bookings and gift cards

Encouraging pre-bookings helps businesses plan ahead and avoid last-minute stress. It also ensures tables are filled, helping with cash flow.

Selling Mother’s Day gift cards is another great way to boost revenue. Many customers struggle to find the perfect present, so offering a gift card for a meal or experience makes gifting easier. This also brings in future business after Mother’s Day.

 

How can retail businesses maximise sales on Mother’s Day?

Retail businesses can also see a big boost in sales around Mother’s Day. Small changes can make a big difference in attracting customers and increasing revenue.

3. Create affordable gift bundles

Shoppers love convenience, and an easy way to boost sales is by offering pre-made gift bundles. These could include:

  • A boutique selling candles, skincare, and chocolates as a self-care package.

  • A jewellery store creating a set with a necklace, earrings, and a personalised gift box.

  • A florist offering flowers with greeting cards and small add-ons like chocolates.

These bundles don’t need to be expensive, but they make shopping easier for customers and encourage them to spend more.

4. Promote your business on social media

Social media is a powerful and free way to attract customers before Mother’s Day. Posting gift ideas, running a small giveaway, or sharing special offers can help businesses stand out. Some simple ways to use social media include:

  • Creating a countdown to Mother’s Day to remind customers to shop early.

  • Posting pictures of gift bundles or special products.

  • Offering a small discount or free gift-wrapping for customers who mention the social media post in-store.

By using social media effectively, businesses can drive more foot traffic and increase sales.

 

How can the UTP Max card machine help small businesses during Mother’s Day?

Having a fast and reliable payment system is essential to keep things moving. The UTP Max contactless card machine for small businesses is the perfect solution for handling increased demand.

  • Faster transactions: The UTP Max processes payments in under 1.2 seconds, helping to reduce waiting times and keep customers happy.

  • Multiple connectivity options: With Wi-Fi, 4G, and Bluetooth, businesses don’t have to worry about slow or failed transactions, even during peak hours.

  • Long battery life: The UTP Max can last a full day on a single charge, making it ideal for busy hospitality venues, pop-up shops, and market stalls.

By using the UTP Max businesses can ensure a smooth service, keep customers satisfied, and maximise sales during the Mother’s Day rush.

Mother’s Day is a fantastic opportunity for small hospitality and retail businesses to boost sales and attract new customers. With a little preparation—like creating gift bundles, offering pre-bookings, and using social media—businesses can make the most of the season without spending a fortune.

Making sure payments are quick and hassle-free is also key. The UTP Max contactless card machine for small businesses helps businesses serve more customers with ease, making the busy period much smoother.

You can learn more about the UTP Max here, or to speak to one of our sales team today, call 0330 99 99 300.