Growth & Jobs | Make your brand unforgettable this holiday season

AH, THE holiday season – cool breeze, grand markets, and that unmistakable buzz of last-minute shopping!

For sole traders and micro-businesses, it’s prime time to dazzle customers without maxing out your budget. So, if you’re ready to make your brand the talk of the town (or at least the talk of your mom’s WhatsApp group), let’s dive into some fresh ideas to make your holiday brand unforgettable.

BRING ON THE CULTURE (AND A LITTLE BIT OF SPICE)!

What’s a Jamaican Christmas without some culture? Nothing says “I’m a local legend” like infusing your brand with a bit of holiday tradition. If you’re running a food stall, sprinkle in stories about traditional Jamaican holiday dishes (because let’s be real – everyone loves talking about food!). Or, if you’re selling handmade crafts, show how your items connect to Jamaican heritage. Customers will love the personal touch, and it might just earn you a few extra “Aww!” and “I didn’t know that!” moments.

HOST A ‘TINGS JAMAICANS LOVE’ GIVEAWAY

Everyone loves a giveaway, but to add a twist, make it about what your customers love most during the holidays. Ask them to share a photo or story about their best Jamaican holiday moment. Think homemade sorrel, best dance moves, or the most decorative pepper lights display on the block. Have them tag your brand and use a clever hashtag. The prize? Something thoughtful from your business, of course! Not only do you get free publicity, but you also get to read some hilarious (and possibly heartwarming) stories that remind everyone why Jamaican holidays are simply the best!

JOIN FORCES WITH YOUR BUSINESS NEIGHBOURS

Two heads are better than one, right? Same goes for business. Team up with other local shops to create an irresistible holiday bundle. Imagine: a candle from the vendor down the street, some artisanal soap from you, and a bag of Blue Mountain coffee from the guy in the next stall. Your customers get a taste of Jamaica in one perfect package, and you get a chance to build community ties (plus double the promotional power). The bonus: it makes for great social media content when you share each other’s goodies online.

SHARE HEARTWARMING STORIES FROM YOUR CUSTOMERS

Nothing sells better than word-of-mouth – especially the kind of stories that bring a smile to people’s faces. If you have a customer who has been with you since the early days, share their story on social media. Maybe it’s a shoutout to someone who always buys their Christmas gifts from your shop or an employee who has been pulling double duty. Stories like these show you value every customer and give your brand a personal touch. Just think of it as your chance to say, “See, we’re all one big, happy holiday family here!”

The holidays are a great time to show customers what makes your brand and your business one of a kind. With a little creativity, a dash of Jamaican charm, and maybe a wink here and there, your small business can truly shine this season. Who knows? You might even get a few more regulars, a bit more cheer, and a lot more love from your customers. Now go forth and spread that holiday joy – Jamaican style!

Saniah Spencer is marketing executive at The Jamaica National Group.