Small business counselor offers tips to move merchandise

Consumers are increasingly thrifty when evaluating purchases these days and a number of small businesses are anxious to move inventory off shelves.

One small business counselor is suggesting a few ways for small businesses to attract customers during times of low demand.

SCORE recommends discounting or selling "slow moving inventory" at cost to make room for new spring merchandise or simply to generate some much needed cash flow.

Using incentives to get vendors, suppliers and even customers to transact in cash is another top tip from the business counseling organization.

The internet is a cost-effective way to look for sales leads, connect with customers, and continue marketing, it says.

"Take advantage of your website, email marketing and search engines. Clean up your website and make sure it's user friendly. Offer up-to-date service information or an email newsletter to people who provide an email address, "advises SCORE.

Given the cost savings associated with running small businesses online, website hosting, design and optimization tools are helping some business owners get up and running with ecommerce capabilities in minimal time.

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