One of the very best ways to draw attention to a new, or newly renovated store is to have a Grand Opening, or Grand Reopening. For years this has been a tried and true method used by companies small and large in order to draw in their initial customer base.  A Grand Opening need not be a large gala event unless desired, but it should be an event nonetheless.

A Grand Opening also gives a new store a much-needed “Kick Start” in order to get started. Simply opening the doors, and hanging up a sign do not give the exposure that a new store needs in order to bring in the customers that are needed.

Preparations are a key factor in a successful Grand Opening
The main objective of a Grand Opening is to make the public aware of you, and to draw away customers from your competition. While they may only come in to take advantage of some possible pricing incentives that you may be initially offering, this is a good way to win the customers over. Remember, first impressions are important, so make the customers feel welcome.

Preparations
Once the construction of the business is well underway, and you have a good idea of when the store will be ready to open, it is time to begin planning and preparing for the Grand Opening. Again, work with your Distributor, as they will have a wealth of knowledge about this due to their experience in the industry.

Signage is a very important factor in hosting a successful Grand Opening, so make sure that you use an adequate supply. Hang large banners where possible advertising your event, and use direct mail as well.

Remember that you are making the all-important first impression on your new customers, so make sure that the store is in tip top shape for the event.

Grand Opening Day
While the actual Grand Opening will probably last for quite some time, what with specials and what not, you should choose one weekend in particular in which to host the “Main Event”. This is the times that you will want to advertise in your direct mail, Banners, local papers, etc. This should be a weekend after the store has been up and running for a time in order to work whatever kinks there may be out of the equipment and building. Be sure to make the store as festive as possible for the big day. Consider balloons, streamers, etc. Have all attendants working, even if it seems slow, in order to pay as much attention to each customer as possible. Remember, you want them to feel welcome, and special. Have each customer greeted as they enter the store.

Give-aways are a great tool. Consider popcorn, hot dogs, soda, and inexpensive trinkets in order to add to the festivities.

Consider asking a local radio station to attend for the event. Many will even provide their own contests and give-aways if they participate.

Special Pricing
Pricing specials are probably one of the more popular and effective ways to bring in new customers to a Grand Opening. While making it an attractive incentive, resist the temptation to go overboard. Consider a special price on only one size machine for the event, or something of that nature.
After a reasonable length of time, you will need to revert this back to normal pricing.

** Information includes materials obtained from the Coin Laundry Association and other sources.