Local Marketing Campaigns

Local marketing campaigns can be a highly effective way to attract more customers to your northern Michigan business.

I have some local marketing campaigns and strategies that will help drive local engagement and increasing foot traffic.

1. Host Local Events and Workshops

Organize events, workshops, or classes that engage the local community.

Whether it’s a “how-to” class, a special demonstration, or a product launch, these events provide an opportunity to showcase your expertise and attract new customers.

2. Partner with Local Businesses

Collaborate with neighboring businesses to create cross-promotions or joint events.

For example, if you run a coffee shop, partner with a nearby bookstore for a “Buy Coffee, Get a Discount on Books” promotion.

Doing local marketing with another local business will help both of you reach a shared audience and build a stronger local presence.

3. Local Sponsorships

Sponsor local events, sports teams, charity functions, or community festivals.

This can be a great way to show your support for the community while getting your business name in front of potential customers.

4. Offer Exclusive Local Discounts

Provide special deals for people who live in your local area or for those who visit in person.

For example, offer a “locals-only” discount or create a loyalty program for repeat customers.

5. Engage in Guerrilla Marketing

Use creative, attention-grabbing tactics to spread the word locally.

Examples could include street art, sidewalk chalk messages, pop-up installations, or flash sales in busy areas.

Keep it fun, and make sure it’s relevant to your business.

6. Referral Programs

Encourage your existing customers to refer their friends and family by offering incentives, such as discounts, freebies, or a small reward for each successful referral.

This leverages the power of word-of-mouth and can help build a loyal customer base.

7. Sponsor a Charity or Community Service Initiative

People appreciate businesses that give back to their community. Partner with a local charity or nonprofit organization, and organize fundraising events, donation drives, or volunteer opportunities.

This strengthens your relationship with the community and boosts your business’s reputation.

8. Use Local SEO

Optimize your website and business listing on platforms like Google Business Profile to appear in local search results.

Make sure your business information is accurate, complete, and optimized with relevant keywords so that people searching for local businesses can easily find you.

9. Distribute Flyers, Posters, or Direct Mai

Design eye-catching flyers, posters, or postcards that highlight promotions, new products, or events and distribute them in local cafes, libraries, or even on community bulletin boards.

Direct mail can also be a great way to reach homes in your area with special offers or news.

10. Create Local Marketing Content

If your business has a blog or website, create content that resonates with your local audience. Write about local events, trends, or activities related to your business.

This positions you as a trusted local expert and improves your chances of being discovered by people in your area.

11. Incorporate Location-Based Hashtags in Local Ads

If you’re using traditional media (print, radio, etc.), add your location or city in your messaging.

For example, “Visit us at Abuzz Creative in Harbor Springs, Michigan” to emphasize your local presence.

12. Host Contests and Giveaways

Organize a local contest with prizes relevant to your business.

For example, if you own a bakery, run a “Best Homemade Cookie” competition with the winner receiving a year’s worth of free cookies.

Use local advertising to promote the contest and create buzz in the community.

13. Create Partnerships with Local Influencers

Connect with local bloggers, journalists, or public figures who have a strong influence in your community.

They can help spread the word about your business through reviews, shout-outs, or collaborations.

14. Offer Free Samples or Tastings

If you run a food-based business or offer physical products, provide free samples to customers in high-traffic areas like farmers markets, shopping centers, or festivals.

Letting people taste your offerings increases the chance they’ll buy something or return later.

15. Get Involved in Local Marketing and Media

Reach out to local newspapers, magazines, or TV stations to pitch your business story or upcoming events.

Many local media outlets are happy to cover small businesses that make an impact in the community.

16. Customer Testimonials and Reviews

Encourage happy customers to leave reviews on platforms like Google, Yelp, or local directories.

Positive reviews can act as powerful word-of-mouth recommendations for potential customers.