Think connection, not conversion

Marketing doesn't have to mean shouting on social media. For market vendors, it's more about giving your regulars a reason to stay in the loop. Try things like:

• Weekly product drops: Use Instagram Stories or email to preview what's fresh this weekend.

• Behind-the-table content: Share a short post or video about your process—roasting beans, baking bread, prepping microgreens.

• "Meet us at the market" reminders: A quick SMS or push card reminder the night before market day works wonders for turnout.

👉 Mailchimp's small business marketing tips can be a good reference if you're just getting started with email.

Loyalty that fits the booth

You don't need a big point-of-sale system to run a great loyalty program. What matters is how visible and memorable it is.

Think of it like your regular punch card, but smarter:

• Digital stamp cards: Customers collect points or stamps on their phones. No paper, no mess.

• Milestone rewards: Offer a free jar, loaf, or drink after five visits. It's not about the discount—it's the recognition.

• Seasonal tiers: Encourage repeat visits during slower months with double points or bonus stamps for refills and reuses.

If you want to make your program stand out, make it feel personal. "Thanks for coming back, we saved your favourite croissant" goes further than any coupon ever could.

Campaign ideas that work at markets

You don't need a marketing budget, just creativity and consistency. Try:

• The return reward: Offer a "see you next week" bonus, like 10% off their next visit.

• Social proof drives: Ask happy customers to tag your booth; feature their posts in your stories.

• Collect and connect: Use a QR code on your table to join your digital loyalty or email list in seconds.

👉 The American Marketing Association's article on local marketing ideas includes simple examples that work well in community settings.

Stay top-of-mind between markets

Your customers love what you make. They just need a gentle nudge to remember you. Add your loyalty card to their digital wallet, so your brand lives right next to the cards they use daily. That small piece of visibility keeps you top-of-mind, even when you're not at the market.