Kiwi shoppers spent billions in the lead-up to Christmas last year — up 4.9% — and this year is set to be even bigger.
Preparing your online store now is crucial to maximise the season’s potential.
1. Get your website ready
Make sure your website can handle a surge in traffic by compressing images, streamlining navigation, and simplifying checkouts.
2. Optimise for mobile
More people shop on phones than desktops, so ensure your mobile site is fast, responsive, and easy to browse.
3. Add festive flair
Deck your website with holiday visuals. Use seasonal colours, surfing Santas, and festive imagery to create an engaging shopping experience.
4. Elevate your EDM
Inboxes are crowded: stand out with exclusive deals, eye-catching subject lines, and irresistible giveaways.
5. Showcase positive reviews
Social proof builds trust. Highlighting customer testimonials will boost credibility and reassure hesitant buyers.
6. Enhance customer service
Prepare for increased queries with chatbots, FAQs, and a team that can handle complex issues quickly.
7. Check your stock
Keep popular items in stock and use “Notify Me” options for out-of-stock products.
8. Reduce decision fatigue
Simplify gift-giving for your customers with product bundles, curated gift suggestions, and top-seller categories.
9. Guarantee delivery cutoffs
Uncertainty around delivery windows can result in lost sales. Communicate shipping deadlines so customers know they’ll get their parcels on time.
10. Offer free & priority shipping
Free shipping has become the norm, while priority shipping allows for last-minute sales.
11. Allow flexible payments
The holidays are expensive! Help customers spread out their payments and reach a wider audience with “Buy Now, Pay Later” options.
12. Prepare for post-holiday
Set clear policies for returns and exchanges following the holidays. A smooth post-holiday process encourages future repeat customers.
