How To Thank Your Customers

3 Better Ways to Show Gratitude

Why isn’t the beverage business better at thanks you’s?

For a trade that serves the hospitality industry, we must move beyond the transactional free bottle or case (where legal). Or the requisite note that feels as obligatory as grade school Valentine’s Day cards for the entire class.

For suppliers thanking distributors, or salespeople thanking customers you need to show appreciation that either:

•   Saves them time ⏱️

•   Is personalized ✍️

•   Makes them feel good ☺️

Here are 3 ways to build loyalty through genuine gratitude:

1. Give Targeted Time: Offer specific, actionable support. Make their job easier, not harder.   

   • Suppliers, this might mean working solo so reps can focus on servicing accounts during this busy season. Or perhaps, that incentive that ends December 31st can be extended through the January 31st so more folks have a chance at succeeding? 📆

     • Reps, can you offer to pour at that in-store tasting that your account has had trouble filling? Can you help that understaffed account with end-of-the-month inventory? 📦

2. Human Giving Trumps Generic Corporate Gifts: Even in markets where gifts might be legal, being genuinely thoughtful counts for more.

     • Can you score them a prime reservation at restaurant they’ve been wanting to go to? 🍽️

     • Can you make a donation in their name to a charity they support? 🎗️

     • Of course, no one ever complains about homemade cookies. 🍪

3. Public Recognition or Private Acknowledgement: Give a specific shout-out on social media for a sales achievement or customer success story. Acknowledging a personal win as a shared success is powerful and often underutilized. A little thank you can go a long way. Plus, it’s free! 🙏

How easy it is to forget that appreciation strengthens retention.

Who are you thanking during this season? 🤝

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Happy Thanksgiving!

With the holiday, there won’t be any new posts this week, but Ah So Insights will return on December 2nd.