Why It’s Important to Communicate Holiday Hours Early

With Thanksgiving and the holidays around the corner, customers are planning ahead for last-minute needs like fuel, snacks, and drinks. As a convenience store, gas station, liquor store, or smoke shop owner, making your hours of operation crystal clear is essential. This includes updates on whether your store will be open on Thanksgiving, closed on Thanksgiving, or offering reduced hours. Doing so not only reduces customer confusion but also provides a competitive edge – especially as traditional grocery stores closed on Thanksgiving may send more customers your way. Here’s how you can prepare your business for a smooth and successful holiday season.

1. Be Clear and Visible with Holiday Hours Across All Channels

If your location will remain open on Thanksgiving or close for the holiday, communicate this as soon as possible. Announce it on your Google Business Profile, social media, and in-store signage. Inconsistent information can create confusion; customers may arrive expecting your store to be open, only to find it closed or with reduced hours. Here’s how to get it right:

• Google Business Profile: Update holiday hours on Google Business to ensure customers find accurate times. This profile is a go-to for shoppers, so make sure it reflects your Thanksgiving hours – especially if you’re open on Thanksgiving or have reduced hours.
• Social Media: Schedule posts reminding customers of any special hours for Thanksgiving and Black Friday. Even a simple image post with your hours can make a difference.
• In-Store Signage: Use clear, prominent signs at both entrances and checkouts. If possible, include the hours for Thanksgiving, Black Friday, and other major holidays to help customers plan.

2. Stock Up on Essential Items to Meet Holiday Demand

Many customers rely on convenience stores and gas stations during holidays, especially as some grocery stores open on Thanksgiving may still close earlier than usual. For stores open on Thanksgiving on operating as 24-hour locations, stocking key items can attract and satisfy more customers. Here are must-have items for the holiday season:

• Essentials and Quick Meals: Milk, bread, eggs, and snacks. These are last-minute essentials people often need but forget to grab.
• Seasonal Items: Stocking up on holiday items like canned pumpkin, cranberry sauce, and stuffing mix can help last-minute shoppers.
• Drinks and Desserts: Offer a range of beverages, including soft drinks, water, and mixers for seasonal cocktails. Partnering with local bakeries for pre-made pies and desserts can provide a quick solution for customers needing holiday treats.

Be sure to double-check which stores around you will be closed. If a nearby grocery store or chain is closed on Thanksgiving, this is an opportunity to meet the local demand for items that people will need at the last minute.

3. Catering to Travelers: Key Items for Those on the Road

Thanksgiving often means high travel volumes. Whether people are driving across town or across states, gas stations and convenience stores are vital stops. Preparing for travelers with items that make the trip smoother can improve customer satisfaction:

• Road Trip Snacks: Easy-to-get items like granola bars, chips, nuts, and bottled drinks are great for quick energy.
• Health and Safety Essentials: Stock up on items like hand sanitizers, masks, and even small first-aid kits.
• Coffee and Energy Drinks: Drivers making long trips will appreciate hot coffee and energy drinks to keep them alert.

4. Ensuring Staff is Prepared and Scheduling is Optimized

Clear communication with staff is essential, too. If your store has reduced hours or is open on Thanksgiving, plan schedules well in advance. Ensure staff members understand the holiday hours and can guide customers accordingly. Planning early and having backup shifts can prevent staff shortages, allowing you to deliver excellent service even during peak times.

5. Stand Out by Partnering with Local Businesses

Holiday preparations offer unique opportunities to collaborate with nearby vendors. Partner with local bakeries, for instance, to offer pre-made pies and desserts that your customers can grab last-minute on Thanksgiving Day. This can set your store apart from the competition and provide added value to customers who need quick, quality solutions.

Final Thoughts

By communicating your holiday hours well in advance, stocking essentials, and preparing for increased demand from both local customers and travelers, your store can enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty. Make sure all communication is consistent digital and in-person signage. Not only will your customers appreciate the clarity, but your team will also have a smoother and more successful holiday season.