As the sun comes out and the days get longer, Liverpool transforms. The city buzzes with a new energy—you can feel it on the packed cobbles of the Albert Dock and hear it in the mix of languages along Bold Street. Thousands of tourists flock to our city, contributing over £4.9 billion to the local economy annually.
But for many local businesses, this massive influx of potential customers is treated like the weather—something that just happens to them. They keep the same window display, post the same generic content, and simply hope for the best, remaining completely passive. This is a huge missed opportunity. You can’t just hope tourists wander in; you need an active strategy to grab the attention of someone who is only in the city for 48 hours and is being bombarded with options. You need to digitally raise your hand and say, “Hey, visitor! I’m right here, and I’m exactly what you’re looking for.”
Let’s use a fictional local gift shop, “Albert Dock Treasures,” as our example. Here is a simple, 4-step strategy to turn their passive business into a tourist magnet.
Your 4-Step Tourist Magnet Plan:
- Win on Google Maps: Create a “Digital Treasure Hunt” photo album.
- Create Urgency: Run a daily “Visitor Flash Sale” on Instagram Stories.
- Build Partnerships: Become the “Concierge’s Choice” for local hotels.
- Offer an In-Store Bonus: Use the “Boarding Pass Bonus” to welcome visitors.
1. Win on Google Maps with a “Digital Treasure Hunt”
When a tourist is looking for “Liverpool souvenirs” on their phone, your Google Maps listing is your first and best chance to impress them. Put yourself in their shoes: they’re in discovery mode, actively seeking unique experiences. A generic listing isn’t just boring—it’s invisible.
The Strategy: Go beyond just having a pin on the map. Create a specific photo album on your Google Business Profile titled “Unique Liverpool Gifts You Won’t Find Online.” Fill this album with at least 10 high-quality, well-lit photos of your most unique, locally-made items—things they can’t just buy on Amazon. Think hand-poured candles that smell like the docks, jewellery from a local artist, or a limited-edition “Ferry Across the Mersey” tote bag. This creates intrigue and a promise of discovery, positioning your shop as a must-visit destination for authentic souvenirs, not just generic tat.
2. Create Urgency with a Social Media “Flash Sale”
A tourist’s time is limited. For them, “maybe later” often means “never.” You need to give them a compelling reason to visit your shop right now.
The Strategy: Run a daily “Visitor Flash Sale” on your Instagram Story. Post a picture of a desirable item and announce: “Today’s Visitor Flash Sale! This handmade Liverpool Gin glass is 20% off for the next 3 hours only. Show this story at the till. When it’s gone, it’s gone!” Pro-Tip: Use a free tool like Canva to create a simple, reusable template for your flash sale posts. This makes creating them each day a 60-second job. This creates powerful FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out). It’s exclusive, it’s time-sensitive, and it short-circuits indecision, pushing them to change their plans and head to your shop immediately. Make it a daily ritual, and followers will start to anticipate it.
3. Create the “Concierge’s Choice” Partnership
Don’t just wait for tourists to find you; go to where they are staying and get a trusted recommendation.
The Strategy: Create a small, beautifully designed postcard with an exclusive offer (e.g., “A free Liverpool postcard with any purchase”). Personally visit 5-10 independent hotels or high-rated Airbnb hosts near you and offer them these cards to give to their guests at check-in. Have a quick chat with the front desk staff and even give them a small freebie from your shop as a thank you.
Why it works: A tourist trusts their hotel concierge far more than any ad. While your competitors are shouting into the void online, you are getting a personal, trusted recommendation delivered directly to a high-value customer. It’s the ultimate marketing shortcut.
4. The Irresistible In-Store “Boarding Pass Bonus”
Once you get tourists to your door, a final, memorable offer can seal the deal and encourage them to spend more. This isn’t just about a discount; it’s about a gesture of hospitality.
The Strategy: Create a simple sign for your till that says: “Show us your train ticket, hotel key card, or boarding pass for a 10% ‘Scouse Welcome’ discount.” This creates a moment of connection. You’re acknowledging their journey and welcoming them to the city in a memorable way. This small act can be the difference between a simple purchase and a customer who leaves a glowing 5-star review about their “amazing experience” in Liverpool.
Your Next Step
Stop waiting for tourists to find you. With a simple, active strategy, you can turn the summer visitor rush into your most profitable season of the year.
FREE WEBSITE AUDIT
Reading about strategy is one thing, but taking action is what gets results. Our Free Business Audit is the bridge between the two. We’ll identify the specific opportunities for your business and give you a clear, actionable plan. Let’s get you ready for the summer influx.
