8 Black Friday Marketing Ideas for 2023—Other Than Markdowns

The countdown to Black Friday is on! Known as one of the biggest shopping days of the season, Black Friday has become synonymous with slashed prices, crowded big-box stores, and frantic shoppers. As a small business owner, we’re guessing you already operate under tight margins, and perhaps a mega-sale doesn’t fit into your Black Friday marketing strategy this year.  

Not to worry! There are plenty of ways you can still excite and engage with your customers…without over-discounting your inventory or services. From raffles to rewards, get inspired with these 8 Black Friday marketing ideas for 2023.  

1. Offer a Gift With Purchase

Whether it’s a coupon for their next order or a small trinket, a gift with purchase is a great way to incentivize customers to make a purchase—and show your gratitude for their business. Consider offering this bonus gift to the first 50 customers of the day to create urgency and get people through your doors.  

2. Host an In-Store Event

Looking for Black Friday promotion ideas for your brick-and-mortar business? Get people into your shop with an in-store event…no sales or special offers needed! Entice customers to get through your doors with complimentary refreshments, personal shopping help, or even a giveaway.  

3. Run a Raffle

Raffles are a great Black Friday marketing tool for just about any kind of business. You could raffle off a free service at your day spa or home cleaning business; pack up a basket of your best-selling merch; or choose a high-value branded item, like an insulated tumbler or cooler bag. Choose a prize, then give raffle tickets to customers when they make a purchase, follow you on social media, or subscribe to your mailing list.  

4. Up Your Social Presence

An active presence on social media is important all year, not just around the holiday season. But during the Black Friday marketing and sales craziness, your posts can stand out in a sea of big-box deals. Use this opportunity to showcase your new inventory, let customers know about upcoming events, and interact with your followers. Make sure you’re online regularly so you can address any customer comments, questions, or messages.  

5. Provide Personalized Service

A personal level of service is something that sets small businesses apart from larger corporations—especially during the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. And best of all, prioritizing personalized services is one of the most budget-friendly Black Friday marketing strategies…paying extra-special attention to your customers requires time and commitment, not money! Offer personal shopping appointments, either virtually or in person, to help customers find the perfect present for their loved ones. Other tailored services, like complimentary gift-wrapping or same-day local delivery, can also help your business stand out on Black Friday.  

6. Stay at the Top of Their Inbox

Whether with an email marketing campaign or a holiday card in the mail, make sure your brand stays top-of-mind all season long. Plus, what better way to boost Black Friday online traffic than with an email newsletter? 

7. Amp Up Your Rewards Program

Does your business offer customers the chance to earn points with each purchase? Whether you run a juice bar or a nail salon, a rewards system is a great way to keep customers coming back. Instead of slashing prices this Black Friday, offer 2x points on every purchase—you’ll still entice customers to come in, but won’t have to sacrifice your immediate profit margin.  

8. Send a Thank-You Note

Whatever Black Friday campaign idea you decided on, make sure you wrap up the campaign with a thank-you message. Whether a postcard or an email, show your gratitude for your customers’ support during the holiday shopping season—and get them excited to visit your business again.