Have a Recession Proof Christmas! Part 4 of 4 on                    Recession Proof Industries. 

It's still up in the air what retail earnings will look like this shopping season. According to this month's Fortune Magazine, the gifts you receive this year will be more expensive. That's due to inflation. But don't expect as many from friends and coworkers. We'll all buy gifts, but for fewer people. 

In the last decade, most of us have milked the retail cow for any drop it would give. Amazon and other dot coms have had a dire impact on brick-and-mortar retail. Sales budgets reflect that. 

Here are some ideas where recession proof businesses can help make up for some of that loss. It will require some creative thinking, good strategy, and a well thought and well executed pitch. But, it is very doable. 

Baby Products

It's true that people have fewer children during an economic downturn. But there are still babies. 

There are boutiques that specialize in baby clothes. However, their budgets will be small at best. But, there is one untapped industry that could be cross-branded with these boutiques. They have synergy. 

Pediatric Health Care. 

Example: Little Toes and Happy Fingers is all about baby. From onesies and sleepers to adorable outfits for church and special occasions, Little Toes and Happy Fingers has it all. Shop now for Christmas and receive a special bonus: a half-off copay certificate to Meriwether Pediatrics. That's huge savings right there. Little Toes and Fingers has baby looking great while Meriwether Pediatrics has baby feeling great, happy, and healthy. This very special offer ends December 15th. So, don't delay. 

Then:

It's baby's first Christmas. And you're excited. You can't wait to see the look on their sweet face as you set them in front of the Christmas tree, and watch all the twinkling lights and shiny bulbs. Then, there's their first picture with Santa. Meriwether Pediatrics cherishes those moments with you. They're parents, too. Since we're approaching the end of the year, why not use what's left in your (healthcare savings/ benefits allowance) now. From check-ups to anything else, They're here to make the most of these holiday happy moments. As an added bonus, stop by Little Toes and Happy Fingers and find out how you can get half-off your copay.

This can also apply to Pediatric Dentistry. 

Education and Day Care

Economic downturns tend to see more people working multiple jobs, especially when we're approaching the holidays. 

Therefore, the demand for day care and after hours care is greater. 

Yet, ask any parent. It's almost as if the dog is chases it's own tail. Day Care is expensive. 

Idea.

Meet with one of your market's local credit unions. Pitch a proposal for low interest loans specifically designed for after-school care during the holidays. (caveat: interest rates are still rising. The credit union will only have so much wiggle room.) Then pitch after school care services to participate. 

Example: At Trinity Federal Credit Union, we know you're working extra this year. That's time away from your family. So, we're here to help the We Care After Hours Care low-interest loan. Use it for the additional cost of after school care. Or, you can use it to hold you over to past the holidays so your time is spent with your family. And not everybody else's. Stop by your local Trinity Federal Credit Union location or at any of our participating Day Care Services for more information. 

Then: The holidays should be a happy time for you and your family. Yet, you're having to work longer or take on another job. That's where Wee Scholars After School Care can help. We've partnered with Trinity Federal Credit Union to help you get the most from your hard-earned dollar. Your kids will love the happy environment for structure and learning. And with our peek-a-boo app cam, you can check in on them at any time. Stop by Wee Scholars today and learn how you can qualify for this holiday special incentive with Trinity Federal Credit Union.  

Or

When it comes to academics, holidays also mark the end of the semester. Is there a subject that your son or daughter is struggling with? That's where Wee Scholars can help. Wee Scholars is more than just somebody keeping an eye on the kids while you work. Wee Scholars can provide tutelage on various subjects. That's sure to help their end-of-semester final grades. And Trinity Federal Credit Union now offers special incentives to help offset the investment. Learn more now at Wee Scholars or your local Trinity Federal Credit Union. 

Food And Beverage Industry

Even in a rough economy, everyone has to eat. 

Everyone associates the holidays with their favorite foods. Almost all of those are rich in texture and high in calories. That's why people almost always associate this season with weight gain. 

Idea:

Start a Holiday Healthy campaign with several local grocery stores, produce outlets, and local restaurants. Most of these already tout buy local. Use this in application for the holidays, but focused on eating healthy and still delicious. 

Begin with chefs at local restaurants. Have them present easy, healthy holiday recipe videos. Then, create a 30 second radio ad campaign that drives listeners to that restaurant's digital assets. 

Do the same with the local grocer and produce provider. 

This can also apply to holiday cocktails. "Hi, I'm Tavern Mixologist Hunter Bergen. Most of where cocktail calories come from are the various mixes added to them, and not the spirits themselves. Here's some great low-cal cocktails that you can make for your next holiday gathering."

In conclusion; if you're looking for ideas or at least inspiration, please reach out to me anytime. I'm always here to help. I'd love to be considered one of your prime resources when it comes to ideas, pitches, and strategy. 

Sincerely

Mike -The Reel Architect.