The Update

Expanding Operations for Your Small Business

Expanding operations and reaching new markets can be a challenging, but rewarding, endeavor for any business or business professional. Here are some tips and strategies that can help you successfully navigate this process.

Conduct market research

Before taking practical steps toward expanding your operations or entering a new market, it’s essential to conduct thorough market research to understand the market demand, competition and consumer behavior. This can help you tailor your products or services to meet the needs of the target market and differentiate yourself from competitors.

Develop a detailed expansion plan

Once you have identified a new market or expansion opportunity, develop a clear and detailed plan for how you will enter that market. You may want to include the top brass at your company in this planning process, or even enlist the services of a business consultant. The completed expansion plan should include a detailed budget for the expansion, staffing needs and how you anticipate filling them, as well as marketing strategies to get the plan off the ground.

Consider a partnership

Partnering with other businesses or organizations in your target market(s) can help you gain a foothold in that market and increase your brand visibility. Look for opportunities to collaborate with local businesses, government agencies or industry associations. You can initiate these partnerships online, through industry-related forums or at networking events you or your staff may attend throughout the year.

Leverage digital marketing

Digital marketing can be a powerful tool for expanding your reach into new markets. Develop a strong online presence; including a website, social media accounts and email marketing campaigns, to reach potential customers and build brand awareness. You can also work on improving an existing online presence by tweaking your social media profiles, redesigning your platform pages or hosting an online video contest.

Offer promotions

If you can’t afford to substantially expand your business right now, consider offering an in-store promotion. This can take the form of a freebie, a BOGO sale or anything at all. Use the promotion to highlight a new product you’re offering now, or to celebrate your anniversary. Deals and gifts are always a great way to attract new and existing customers.

Consider franchising or licensing

If you have a successful business model, consider franchising or licensing it to expand into new markets without the same level of investment and risk. This can also help you maintain brand consistency and control. Be sure to prepare a detailed financial disclosure document, to draft a clear franchise agreement and to compile an operational manual for franchises before going this route.

Offer localized products and services

To appeal to a new market, you may need to tailor your products or services to meet local tastes and preferences. Spend some time researching the local market and consider adapting your offerings to the cultural and economic context of the new market.

Rio Grande CU Business Services

RGCU offers a wide variety of business services, including small business checking, business lines of credit, equipment loans, and more. If you are looking to expand your small business, RGCU can be a resource for you, your business, and your employees. Contact us today to learn more.  

Expanding your operations and reaching new markets can be a challenging, but rewarding, process. Follow these strategies and adapt them to your specific business needs to increase your chances of success.