The busiest season of the year is here — and for small retailers, preparation can make the difference between chaos and smooth, predictable success. Whether you have a physical shop, an online store, or both, these practical, research-backed tips will help you maximise sales, minimise stress, and make this peak trading period your most productive yet.
1. Stock Early to Avoid Delays & Sell-Outs
Shipping delays increase significantly during November and December, according to Australia Post and major courier networks. Ordering early ensures your shelves stay full when customers start shopping.
Tip: Prioritise products that performed well earlier this year — proven sellers often make up 50–70% of seasonal revenue.
2. Focus on Your Bestsellers
Your top 20% of products usually drive 80% of your sales. With customers shopping faster and more emotionally during the festive rush, simplifying your range can actually increase conversion.
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Feature bestsellers front and centre
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Reduce low-performing SKUs temporarily
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Use signage like “Top Gifts” or “Bestsellers”
3. Offer Ready-to-Go Gift Bundles
Gift bundles increase average order value by 10–30% (Shopify retail insights).
Create:
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Curated gift packs
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“Buy More, Save More” offers
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Seasonal bundles for convenience shoppers
These save time for customers and help you sell more with minimal effort.
4. Make Shopping Easy
A well-organised store (or website) converts better.
In-store:
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Clear signage
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Clean counters
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Logical product flow
Online:
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Fast-loading pages
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Clear shipping info
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Mobile-friendly checkout
Small improvements can lift sales by 5–15%.
5. Plan Staffing & Training Ahead
Short staffing leads to long queues, frustrated customers, and lost sales.
Prepare by:
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Scheduling early
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Training staff on key products
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Ensuring team members take short breaks to stay energetic
A well-rested team is more productive, helpful, and customer-friendly.
6. Communicate Early with Customers
Let customers know:
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Your opening hours
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Last shipping dates
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New stock arrivals
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Gift ideas
Consistent communication builds trust and encourages repeat visits.
7. Review Your Margins
Avoid profit erosion during peak season.
Ask:
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Are your prices aligned with the market?
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Are you making enough margin on seasonal items?
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Should you adjust bundles to improve profitability?
Avoid deep discounting too early — it reduces perceived value.
8. Prepare Your Online Store
Before peak trading hits, check:
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Checkout process
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Page loading speed
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Updated product descriptions
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Inventory sync
Even tiny friction can cost sales.
9. Prioritise Your Well-Being
Retail peak season is intense.
Simple practices help:
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Schedule breaks
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Keep hydrated
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Rotate tasks
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Set realistic daily goals
A calm team improves customer experience — which directly boosts sales.
10. Keep It Simple
You don’t need perfection — just clarity and consistency.
Focus on:
✔ Stock levels
✔ Customer service
✔ Stable operations
✔ Strategic merchandising
These are the foundations of a strong season.
Need Help Choosing Fast Movers or Planning Stock?
We're here to support you with product suggestions, POS material, and any resources you need to make this season successful.