You can easily boost your visibility and revenue in retail with energy, creativity, and intention. Just ask Linda Osborne. 

On October 1, 2024, Linda Osborne opened Bespoke Collective & Ragged Edges, a vibrant artisan marketplace featuring nearly 20 local makers. Specializing in upcycled denim jackets, kimonos, and handmade pieces, her shop has quickly become a local favorite.

In less than a year, she’s created a space that blends personal connection with strategy, providing a true example of how to increase retail sales through thoughtful, community-driven retail.

Read on to hear the eight tips she used to keep sales strong all year long.

1. Show Up Online (Every Day)

Facebook (Meta) is one of Linda’s biggest tools for engagement. She posts several times daily, showcasing new products, events, and behind-the-scenes photos. Her consistency builds trust and keeps her store at the forefront of both her followers’ and newcomers’ minds, encouraging them to engage. 

When used well, social media is like having a second store that’s always open.

If you’re wondering how to increase retail sales, incorporating social media into your daily routine should be essential. Start by:

• Posting consistently. Show up daily with photos and short-form video content that reflects your store’s vibe.
• Featuring your best-sellers and why people love them. Use testimonials, product demos, or simple “why we love it” captions.
• Running low-effort promotions. Try flash sales, “last chance” items, or giveaways that require a like or tag to enter.
• Going live. A quick tour of your store, an unboxing of a new shipment, or a Q&A session will help build connection and trust.

A mix of these strategies goes a long way in building visibility. Focus on being relatable and reliable. That’s how you build a digital presence that converts into in-person sales.

2. Boost Visibility with Creative Marketing

Linda addressed a challenging visibility issue when part of her building was undergoing renovation. To catch the eye of potential customers, she hired a local high school artist to paint her logo and a yellow arrow on empty windows pointing to her store. The result was more foot traffic and local buzz. 

Though her location had proven to be an obstacle in the past, with creativity, she was able to make it work. That small act turned a renovation zone into an advertising asset.

If you’re working toward retail business growth, think about ways you can boost your store’s presence. Don’t settle for boring windows or signs; instead, turn them into mini billboards. Use chalkboards, murals, and even sidewalk stickers to catch attention. Creative marketing doesn’t have to cost much, but it should make people stop and consider coming in. 

3. Create an Atmosphere That Invites Return Visits

Bespoke Collective & Ragged Edges’ atmosphere is perfect, at least by Linda’s standards. She designed the space so that people want to linger. From wicker chairs to the Bee Gees playing from the speakers, she makes the shop feel upbeat, warm, and a little bit like home. Her customers hang out, chat, and often stay longer than they planned. 

For retail sales success, focus on creating a positive environment. Think about: 

• Adding one-of-a-kind focal points: Think vintage couches, handmade fixtures, or bold artwork. These pieces provide people with something to discuss and share.
• Showcase local culture: Display community-made products or art that reflects the unique character of your area. It roots your store in a shared experience and adds authenticity.
• Use mirrors and sightlines: Open up the space visually so customers can see what’s next without feeling overwhelmed or boxed in.
• Offer beverages: A small drink station (local coffee, herbal tea, or sparkling water) can turn a regular visit into an elevated experience for customers.

The more relaxed and happy your customers feel, the more likely they are to buy your products.

4. Offer Memorable In-Store Events

Linda is constantly seeking ways to attract people to her store. 

“We’ve done book clubs. We’ve done classes. We’ve done photography in here for Mother’s Day for free,” she shares.

She even hosts artisan-led classes that let her customers create mandala art. These events make the shop feel interesting, cool, and alive with creativity and conversation. 

Want retail business growth that sticks? Design in-store events that tap into your unique customer base. Host niche workshops, like “DIY Candle Pouring with Local Artisans” or “Sip & Style Nights,” where loyal shoppers receive exclusive access to new collections. Think beyond discounts and create more tactile, memorable experiences. That’s how growing retail companies build deeper community ties.

5. Build a Strong Local Network

Linda makes sure to keep in touch with fellow shop owners on the square. They check in on sales, share customer traffic updates, and refer shoppers to one another. It’s a tight-knit community that’s genuinely supportive and focuses on collaboration over competition. 

For growing retailers, partnerships matter. You should:

• Make friends with neighboring businesses. 
• Refer your customers to shop at other stores in your community.
• Create a shared local royalty card, rewarding customers for shopping locally. 

Shared visibility leads to shared wins. The stronger your network, the stronger your business (and sales) will be. 

6. Know What Your Market Wants

Linda stays curious about what’s trending and what customers are willing to spend on. She regularly updates her inventory and tests new product categories. This includes handmade jewelry, wind chimes from teapots, terrariums, and even men’s grooming products. Variety helps her appeal to a broader audience. She listens, then evolves her product mix accordingly.

To be one of the top growing retail companies, you have to do your research. Pay attention to your top sellers, follow trends, and talk to your customers. If something isn’t selling, replace it with something that might. Staying in tune with spending habits will keep you profitable and competitive.

7. Mix Up Your Product and Price Points

Bespoke Collective & Ragged Edges offers a diverse range of products, including upcycled jackets, handmade jewelry, and pottery. Prices range from $10 to $60, with something for every shopper. Linda makes sure that, despite the high level of curation, items remain accessible. 

To have a growing retail business, strike a balance between quality and range. Here are a few ways to diversify your mix without overwhelming your brand:

• Have standout pieces in your inventory: Items like one-of-a-kind jackets or large handmade pottery elevate the perceived value of your store.
• Sprinkle in low-lift add-ons: These should be items that customers can grab quickly, such as beard oil, stickers, or tea blends that spark spontaneous purchases.
• Bundle themed items together: “Self-care kits” or “maker-made gift boxes” will help shoppers find value and make quicker buying decisions.

Think of your store like a treasure hunt; there should always be something new for people to discover. 

8. Stay Connected to Your Community

Linda is a community advocate. She’s involved in the Chamber of Commerce, Small Town Taylorville, and IFBW, a women’s business group. These ties keep her visible and involved in her neighborhood. Her presence makes people feel invested in her success. It’s local loyalty at its best.

For retailers, community involvement is non-negotiable. Sponsor a local event, join a business group, or support a nearby school fundraiser. When your name appears in town life, people appear in your store.

Conclusion

Success in retail doesn’t always come from flashy trends or massive budgets. Sometimes it’s a yellow arrow in a window, an artist’s workshop, or music playing in the background that sets your store apart. 

Bespoke Collective & Ragged Edges demonstrates that learning how to increase retail sales is easy when you have creativity, connections, and passion behind what you do. 

Want to learn more about other Illinois retail leaders? Read inspiring stories from retailers across Illinois who are making a difference.

If you loved learning about Linda’s story and know a retailer who deserves recognition, Nominate A Retailer to submit your nomination!