As a furniture and mattress retailer, you’re constantly navigating the complexities of driving traffic and boosting sales. The question you should be asking is: how much are incremental sales and traffic growth worth to you? Fortunately, recent trends indicate that traffic has somewhat stabilized, and with the return of fall activities, there is significant potential for retail sales.

However, we are currently in the midst of a highly contested general election, which is making it difficult for consumers to hear our messages amidst all the noise. Unlike elections from over 15 years ago, digital platforms ensure that we aren’t completely drowned out, but it’s still a challenge.

To help you navigate this landscape and produce incremental traffic and sales with minimal additional costs, here are four layered strategies that can keep your momentum going:

1. Offer Gift Cards for Future Purchases (Eligible in 2025):

By offering gift cards that can be used for purchases in 2025, you can convert current interest into future sales. This strategy not only helps secure future business but also keeps your brand top-of-mind for customers planning ahead.

2. Instant Rebate Gift Cards for Customers Who Fill Out A Financing Application:

Provide instant rebate gift cards to customers who get pre-qualified for financing, regardless of whether they are ultimately approved or not. This tactic encourages more customers to explore financing options while converting current traffic into immediate sales opportunities.

3. Targeted “More You Buy, More You Save” Offers on Clearance Items:

Create special promotions where customers save more as they buy more on clearance or overstocked items—especially those that are usually custom ordered. This approach helps clear out inventory while incentivizing larger purchases.

4. Online-Only Hot Buys:

Develop exclusive online deals designed to drive short-term sales growth. These “hot buys” will attract a different segment of customers who prefer shopping online and provide an opportunity to experiment with various online marketing techniques.

While these strategies may not result in overnight game-changing success, they can make a significant difference in ensuring your business stays profitable during this noisy election season. By implementing these tactics, you position your store not just for survival but for steady growth amid challenging times.

These steps could very well be the difference between ending the year in the black versus being in the red.