If you are an online retailer, now is the time to start planning and implementing your marketing promotions to encourage sales in the run-up to Christmas. Even in the present economic climate, eMarketer predicts that UK business to consumer online sales will be worth £68.4 billion in 2009, a 14% increase from 2008.

With so many companies vying for consumers' attention in the run up to Christmas, putting your plans in place now will enable you to execute well prepared campaigns that will help you stand out from the crowd, and secure a generous portion of the lucrative seasonal spend.

Powering Up Your Christmas Promotions
When UK online shoppers were questioned why they prefer to shop over the web, they said they prefer shopping online because:

• It offers immediate access to a wide range of products and services
• It saves time and hassle associated with high street Christmas shopping
• It offers greater savings on purchases.

Your online store already offers these advantages so you simply need to let shoppers know what great offers you have. Your Christmas marketing activities are a continuation of the best business practices you should already have in place.

Plan Ahead
If you haven't already started, start planning now. Begin by reviewing what worked well for you last year, and consider how you might repeat this or even build upon your success this year.

Prepare a schedule for updating your website and sending dedicated email broadcasts which reflect the season's promotional messages.

Be Creative
Whether it's a countdown of available shopping days, or perhaps incorporating the twelve days of Christmas into your campaigns, be creative. Take some time to think outside the box and get your creative juices flowing.

Consider adopting a charity, to which you will donate a percentage of your Christmas sales. This can attract new customers and will share a feel-good factor.

Decorate Your Website
Add some Christmas cheer to your website – even if it's only the home page. It doesn't need to be a big costly re-design, instead, a few strategically positioned seasonal images may suffice.

Give Prominence to Your Promotions
Once you have established what your promotional offers will consist of, give them priority on your home page, email campaigns and social media sites.

When preparing the copy for special offers, be clear what the deal includes and focus on benefits, benefits, benefits. If your products make a great Christmas gift, tell shoppers why.

Offer a Little Extra
Online shoppers are shrewd buyers, with the luxury of effortlessly comparing products from the comfort of their seat. It's the stores that offer a little extra, such as gift wrapping, direct deliveries, two for one and three for two deals, electronic vouchers, gift lists and more will stand out from the crowd.

Good Housekeeping
Receiving goods before Christmas is crucial to the Yule tide shopper – make sure to clearly state your last day of posting, and consider offering express deliveries for last minute shoppers.

Finally, remember it is the season to be jolly, reflect this in your correspondence. Being genuine and sharing some good will ensure you are remembered for a long time. If you would like help preparing your Christmas promotions, contact us today.