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Dec 23
2008
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Targeting Tanning Beds to the College MarketPosted by Ron Wilson in spring break, salon manager, marketing, advertising   |
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Every business-savvy tanning salon owner will tell you to target newcomers to your area. It’s good advice and if you have a local college in your area, you also have access to a constantly replenishing supply of newcomers to your area. And Spring Break is around the corner...
So, how do you market your tanning bed packages to the college market?
Free Weekly Papers
Whether it’s your city’s alternative weekly or the on-campus newspaper, college students are picking up these publications every week to find out what’s happening. Use this advertising medium appropriately by running ads that target the college market.
Freshman Welcome Packs
Most colleges hand out welcome packages to their “frosh” or freshman during their first week on campus. For a small fee, you can get a coupon or pamphlet inserted into every welcome package and put your tanning salon’s name into the hands of potentially thousands of new customers.
On-Campus Bulletin Boards
Before you start posting flyers on billboards across campus, make sure you understand the college’s rules about posting advertisements. Most colleges require that all flyers or ads are approved, typically by an on-campus administration office.
Vendor Fairs
Many schools host vendor fairs during the first week or month of the semester. This is a great opportunity to advertise your business, hand out promotions face-to-face and connect with the student population.
Enlist On-Campus Ambassadors
What works with younger customers? Peer-to-peer marketing (also known as referrals to us older folk). So, if you don’t already have a referral program in place – get one. Offer discounts or incentives to existing customers every time they refer a friend.
Target Sports Teams
A friend of mine owns a tanning salon in Michigan and she attracted 45 new monthly memberships simply by contacting local varsity coaches (think cheerleading and gymnastics) and offering tanning discounts for their athletes. At $30 a month, those four phone calls equaled an extra $1350 in monthly revenue.
The Value of New
Don't forget to feature your latest tanning beds or your newest lotions. It is no secret that, although most college "kids" tell you they are short on cash, they want what is new & hot and are willing to pay a bit extra to get it. Distinguish yourself from the undercutters by featuring the superiour tanning bed technology in your tanning salon.
