Relocating a business is a complex and stressful process--especially when you consider the task of ensuring your customers are well-informed of the impending move. As long as you aren't moving your business to a far-off location, you want to maintain your current customer relationships so they continue their patronage. Read on to find out the best ways to let your customers know you're moving--and
attract some new ones in the process!
Change your address and phone number
Your business address is likely plastered everywhere, and you may overlook some of the necessary changes during the hectic moving process. Some of the most important places to start updating your address and phone number include:
• Your official website
• Social media accounts
• Online listings, such as Google, Yelp, and Yahoo
• Your professional email signature
Be sure to update your information as soon as you vacate your old location to ensure you don’t miss any patronage during your transition.
Use social media
Social media is perhaps the most valuable tool at your disposal to reach your current clientele. Keep your followers updated with the status of your move, and make sure to reiterate your new location and promotions you will be running when you re-open. Tweet about your new location and any upcoming opening events to get retweets from your followers and spread the word. If your business has a blog, craft a “We’re Moving!” post containing all of the pertinent details, and keep your audience filled in as your move progresses. Once your business has opened to the public in your new spot, be sure to update all social media accounts with photos—especially if you are holding a grand opening.
Use an email newsletter or a mailed postcard
If you have an email list or send out a periodic newsletter, an email blast informing your customers of the move will be helpful. You may also opt to send out physical postcards, coupons, or other promotional information to your customers’ homes. Sending out an alert both before and after the move will benefit your business.
Send flyers or use radio and print advertising
Print out colorful and attention-grabbing flyers bearing your business’ logo and move details (such as new location and date of re-opening). Display the flyers at other local businesses, place on windshields or hand out to passersby. If you are holding any special sales or promotions, be sure to include it on the flyer. Purchase an advertisement in the local paper or a brief spot on the radio to get the word out to customers new and old about your relocation. Be sure to choose outlets that appeal to your desired demographic.
Send a press release
Draft a press release including all the pertinent details of your business move including the date, new location, promotions and events, such as a grand opening (you may want to draft a second press release for the grand opening alone). Include a detailed description of your business, product, and services as well. If you are not a skilled writer and have little PR experience, hire a firm to craft the release and distribute it for you. You can also send an email blast to news sources with your release or subscribe to a wire service to distribute it.
Throw a grand opening
Throwing a grand opening will draw significant attention to your business to attract new customers and entice your old customers to continue their patronage. Your grand opening should include food, decorations, prize giveaways, and a ribbon-cutting. Invite high-profile guests such as the mayor, city council members, Chamber of Commerce officials, local business association members, local business officials, and the press. Make sure to mention your grand opening on your social media accounts, and in any flyers, email blasts, press releases, and advertisements you are distributing about your move.