Wednesday, April 9, 2025

Snapchat Launches Sponsored AI Lenses for Immersive Brand Advertising

Snapchat has introduced Sponsored AI Lenses, a new advertising format powered by the company’s proprietary Generative AI technology. This new feature is designed to offer brands a creative and interactive way to connect with Snapchat’s user base by placing consumers at the center of AI-powered, branded experiences.

According to Snapchat, Sponsored AI Lenses allow users to visualize themselves in imaginative scenarios, such as wearing ‘90s hairstyles, exploring the Wild West, or showcasing high-fashion runway styles. These personalized, AI-driven images aim to enhance self-expression while promoting brand visibility among friends.

“With advancements in AI transforming the way we create and connect, we’re excited to introduce Sponsored AI Lenses, a new ad format powered by Snap’s proprietary Generative AI technology,” the company stated in its announcement.

The new format enables brands to gain high visibility by positioning their lenses at the forefront of the Snapchat Camera. Snapchat reports that this placement can generate 25–45% more impressions in a single day.

Several brands and artists have already utilized Sponsored AI Lenses in recent campaigns. Uber launched its “My Thanksgiving Vibe” AI Lens, offering users a festive experience, while Tinder introduced a playful “My 2025 Dating Vibe” AI Lens for New Year’s Eve. Coldplay used the format to immerse fans in a virtual universe during the launch of Moon Music. Snapchat noted that these campaigns achieved higher-than-average engagement, with users spending more time interacting with Sponsored AI Lenses compared to standard formats.

Over the past two years, Snapchat has been developing its Generative AI capabilities to streamline ad production. The company states that Sponsored AI Lenses eliminate the need for traditional 3D and VFX design, replacing them with AI-generated templates that reduce production time and cost.

“This technology fuels creativity with unique, unexpected visuals that help elevate brand storytelling and deepen engagement,” Snapchat explained.

Sponsored AI Lenses appear in the Lens Carousel, where more than 300 million Snapchatters engage with augmented reality experiences daily. Snapchat says it plans to continue enhancing these tools to support advertisers in delivering innovative, AI-driven brand experiences.

“We look forward to continuing our work to help advertisers stay at the forefront of AI-powered creativity and bring their brand to life for Snapchatters in entirely new ways,” the company stated.

This article, "Snapchat Launches Sponsored AI Lenses for Immersive Brand Advertising" was first published on Small Business Trends

Tuesday, April 8, 2025

Meta Details New Tools for Managing Business Chats on WhatsApp

Meta has introduced a set of new tools designed to give users more control over their business-related messages on WhatsApp while helping businesses create more valuable and thoughtful customer experiences. The announcement, made April 3, 2025, outlines a dual focus on user empowerment and business accountability in an increasingly chat-driven digital world.

According to Meta, over two billion people use WhatsApp every day, with millions turning to the app to communicate with businesses for convenience and efficiency. “From talking to friends and family, to booking bus tickets, getting an update on a delivery or paying your utility bills – we’re making it even easier to use WhatsApp for daily tasks,” the company stated.

Putting Users in Control of Business Messages

Meta emphasized that people are always in control of their inboxes on WhatsApp. Users can decide how and when they receive messages from businesses through features like message opt-ins. These opt-ins can occur on a business’ website, in-store, or directly on WhatsApp.

“We always make it clear to people when they are chatting with a business,” Meta said. Users can block or report businesses at any time, and they are also encouraged to share reasons for blocking a business, such as receiving irrelevant messages or never having signed up for communication.

WhatsApp has also introduced a feedback system where users can indicate whether they are interested in messages using “interested” or “not interested” buttons. This functionality applies to content like coupons, product announcements, back-in-stock alerts, or event reminders. Additionally, users can toggle their preferences for these types of messages on or off at any time.

Improving Business Messaging Tools

Meta has also unveiled new features for businesses, including a paid feature called “business broadcasts” available on the WhatsApp Business app. This new message type is intended to encourage businesses to be more selective and strategic in their communications.

To combat message overload, Meta has introduced limits on the number of marketing messages users can receive. The company says the goal is to ensure that messages remain “helpful and expected.”

Businesses using the WhatsApp Business Platform are required to use pre-approved message templates that go through a strict review process. These measures are meant to ensure high-quality, relevant, and engaging content. Meta also provides businesses with read-rate metrics to help them refine their messaging frequency.

The platform enforces penalties for businesses that violate its policies. “Repeated violations can result in messaging restrictions that gradually increase in duration and severity,” Meta noted. The company refers businesses to its Commerce and Business Policies and product guide for more information.

Image: Meta

This article, "Meta Details New Tools for Managing Business Chats on WhatsApp" was first published on Small Business Trends

Small Business Optimism Drops Below Historical Average Amid Policy Uncertainty

The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) reported a decline in its Small Business Optimism Index for March 2025, dropping 3.3 points to 97.4. This places the index below the 51-year average of 98, as small business owners across the country express concern over ongoing policy shifts and economic conditions.

“The implementation of new policy priorities has heightened the level of uncertainty among small business owners over the past few months,” said NFIB Chief Economist Bill Dunkelberg. “Small business owners have scaled back expectations on sales growth as they better understand how these rearrangements might impact them.”

The NFIB Uncertainty Index also fell eight points from February’s near-record high, landing at 96.

Taxes and Labor Quality Top Business Concerns

Eighteen percent of small business owners identified taxes as their single most important problem in March, a two-point increase from February and the highest percentage since November 2021. Labor quality remains the top concern, cited by 19% of owners, unchanged from the previous month.

Other top concerns included inflation and labor costs. Sixteen percent of owners cited inflation as their primary problem, while 11% pointed to labor costs—down one point from February.

Expectations and Hiring Trends Weaken

The share of owners expecting better business conditions dropped sharply, falling 16 points to a net negative 21% (seasonally adjusted). This marks the third straight month of declining expectations and represents the largest single-month drop since December 2020.

A net 3% of owners expect higher real sales volumes, down 11 points from February, while a net negative 11% reported higher nominal sales over the past three months—the best reading since March 2024.

Hiring trends also reflect these cautious expectations. Forty percent of owners reported job openings they couldn’t fill, up two points from February. Of the 53% attempting to hire in March, 87% said they found few or no qualified applicants. Plans to create new jobs over the next three months fell to a net 12%, down three points.

Profit and Pricing Pressures Persist

The net percentage of owners raising average selling prices fell by six points to 26% (seasonally adjusted), marking the largest monthly decline since December 2022. Still, 30% plan to increase prices in the coming months—the highest reading since March 2024.

Profit trends remain weak, with a net negative 28% reporting positive profit trends, four points worse than February. Among those with lower profits, 35% cited weaker sales, 18% seasonal changes, 11% material costs, and 8% labor costs. Higher profits were attributed to stronger sales (55%), seasonal factors (16%), and increased selling prices (11%).

Capital Spending and Credit Conditions

Fifty-nine percent of small business owners reported capital outlays in the past six months. Of those, 43% purchased new equipment, 27% bought vehicles, and 16% upgraded facilities. Thirteen percent spent on new fixtures or furniture, and 5% acquired new buildings or land.

Planned capital spending is up slightly, with 21% expecting to make outlays in the next six months, a two-point increase from February.

Access to credit appears to be tightening. A net 6% of owners reported their last loan was harder to obtain, up four points from February—the largest jump since September 2023. Twenty-eight percent reported borrowing regularly, and 4% said they paid a higher rate on their most recent loan.

Expansion Sentiment Softens

Only 9% of small business owners said it is a good time to expand, down three points from the previous month. When assessing the overall health of their business, 11% rated it “excellent,” 53% “good,” 31% “fair,” and 4% “poor.”

This article, "Small Business Optimism Drops Below Historical Average Amid Policy Uncertainty" was first published on Small Business Trends

Enhance Your Etsy Shop with Apple Pay for the Web: A Guide to Seamless Transactions

Key Takeaways

closeup Customer’s hand paying with smartwatch at card reader held by delivery woman
  • Enhanced Convenience: Apple Pay streamlines the checkout process on Etsy, allowing users to complete transactions quickly with just a tap, minimizing cart abandonment rates.
  • Increased Security: With advanced encryption and tokenization, Apple Pay ensures customers’ sensitive information remains protected during transactions, fostering trust in Etsy shops.
  • Broader Customer Base: By accepting Apple Pay, Etsy sellers can attract a wider audience, particularly those who prefer mobile wallet payments, leading to potentially higher sales conversions.
  • Easy Setup: Sellers can easily activate Apple Pay for their shops through the Shop Manager, providing customers with a modern and efficient payment option without complex configurations.
  • Improved Customer Loyalty: A seamless and secure shopping experience encourages repeat purchases, helping sellers build long-term relationships with their customers.

Etsy is transforming the way you shop online, and with the introduction of Apple Pay for the web, it’s making your purchasing experience smoother than ever. Imagine effortlessly completing your transactions with just a tap on your device. This integration not only enhances convenience but also boosts security, ensuring your sensitive information stays protected.

As a seller or buyer on Etsy, understanding how to leverage Apple Pay can elevate your shopping experience. You’ll find it easier to support your favorite artisans while enjoying a seamless checkout process. Dive into the world of Etsy and discover how Apple Pay can simplify your online shopping adventures.

Overview of Etsy Apple Pay for the Web

Hands holding a mobile phone with Apple Pay on it and US dollars. Contactless phone payment concept

Etsy’s integration of Apple Pay for web transactions significantly enhances the shopping experience for both small businesses and customers. You can offer your customers a seamless checkout process that prioritizes security and convenience. Apple Pay allows buyers to make purchases with just a tap, reducing cart abandonment rates.

For your retail business, accepting Apple Pay opens access to a broader customer base, including those who prefer mobile wallets. Implementing this payment option can lead to higher sales conversions, as customers value quick and secure transactions.

Utilizing Apple Pay also builds trust, as it provides additional layers of security with each transaction. Small businesses on Etsy gain the advantage of competing with larger retailers by adopting modern payment technologies. Integrating Apple Pay not only improves customer satisfaction but also reflects your commitment to providing a contemporary shopping experience.

Benefits of Using Apple Pay on Etsy

paying with mobile / apple pay /wireless technology/ payment / money / shopping

Utilizing Apple Pay on Etsy provides significant advantages for small business owners and their customers. This payment option enhances the shopping experience while addressing the needs of both parties effectively.

Convenience and Speed

Convenience defines online shopping, and Apple Pay delivers just that. You can complete transactions quickly using your Apple device without manually entering payment information. This speed lowers the chances of cart abandonment, leading to higher conversion rates for your retail business. Buyers appreciate a streamlined checkout process, which promotes repeat purchases and builds customer loyalty.

Security Features

Security remains a top concern for online shoppers. Apple Pay prioritizes this aspect with advanced encryption and tokenization methods. You can reassure your customers that their payment information stays secure during transactions. This commitment to security fosters trust in your retail business, encouraging more consumers to complete their purchases confidently. By providing a safe checkout experience, you position your Etsy shop as a reliable option for customers.

How to Set Up Apple Pay on Etsy

Hand of young man with smartphone paying by online banking in restaurant

Setting up Apple Pay on Etsy enhances your online shop’s convenience and security. By integrating this payment option, you improve the shopping experience for your customers, which is essential for small businesses in a competitive retail environment.

Requirements for Users

To use Apple Pay on Etsy, ensure your customers possess the following:

  • Compatible Device: Customers need an iPhone, iPad, or Mac that supports Apple Pay.
  • Updated Software: Devices must run the latest version of iOS or macOS.
  • Apple Pay Setup: Customers should set up Apple Pay in their device settings, linking it to a valid payment method.
  • Etsy Account: A registered Etsy account is necessary for completing purchases using Apple Pay.

Steps to Enable Apple Pay

Follow these steps to enable Apple Pay on your Etsy shop:

  1. Access Your Shop Manager: Log in to your Etsy account and navigate to the Shop Manager.
  2. Go to Payment Settings: Click on “Finances” and select “Payment Settings” from the dropdown menu.
  3. Enable Apple Pay: Locate the Apple Pay option and toggle it to “On.” This allows customers to choose Apple Pay at checkout.
  4. Save Changes: Confirm your selections and save the changes to activate Apple Pay.

By implementing these steps, you streamline the checkout process, making it easier for customers to complete their purchases—ultimately benefiting your small business.

Shopping Experience with Etsy Apple Pay

Etsy’s integration of Apple Pay streamlines the shopping experience for both buyers and sellers. This payment method simplifies transactions, making it easier for small businesses to cater to their customers.

User Interface and Navigation

You’ll notice that Apple Pay offers an intuitive user interface. The checkout process becomes straightforward, requiring minimal clicks to finalize purchases. Customers select Apple Pay at checkout, authenticate their identity with Face ID or Touch ID, and confirm the payment. This seamless navigation minimizes friction, encouraging customers to complete their transactions without delays. For small business owners, a smooth user experience translates to increased sales and customer satisfaction.

Comparison with Other Payment Methods

Apple Pay stands out compared to traditional payment methods. Unlike credit cards that require manual entry of details, Apple Pay leverages stored payment information, speeding up the checkout process. This efficiency is critical for small businesses aiming to reduce cart abandonment rates. In contrast, while PayPal offers similar functionality, Apple Pay integrates directly into the checkout page, providing a more cohesive shopping experience. You’ll find that by implementing Apple Pay, your retail business can keep pace with customer expectations for convenience and security, ultimately fostering loyalty and encouraging repeat purchases.

Conclusion

Embracing Apple Pay on Etsy transforms your shopping experience into one that’s faster and more secure. By simplifying the checkout process you not only enhance convenience but also build trust with your customers. This integration empowers small businesses like yours to compete effectively in the marketplace.

With a seamless interface and advanced security features Apple Pay encourages more purchases and fosters customer loyalty. As you set up this payment option in your shop you’re taking a significant step toward modernizing your business. Ultimately adopting Apple Pay can lead to increased sales and a satisfied customer base ready to support your unique offerings.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Apple Pay on Etsy?

Apple Pay is a payment method available on Etsy that allows customers to securely make online purchases using their Apple devices. It streamlines the checkout process by enabling quick transactions without the need for manual entry of payment information.

How does Apple Pay benefit buyers on Etsy?

Apple Pay enhances the shopping experience for buyers by providing a fast, convenient, and secure checkout option. It simplifies payments, reduces cart abandonment rates, and encourages repeat purchases, making the overall experience smoother.

How does Apple Pay benefit sellers on Etsy?

For sellers, integrating Apple Pay can lead to higher sales conversions and a broader customer base. It builds trust through enhanced security measures and allows small businesses to compete effectively with larger retailers.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZK0snvNhUHQ

How do I set up Apple Pay on my Etsy shop?

To enable Apple Pay, log in to your Etsy Shop Manager, go to Payment Settings, toggle the Apple Pay option to “On,” and save your changes. Ensure you meet the necessary requirements for a smooth setup.

What are the security features of Apple Pay?

Apple Pay uses advanced encryption and tokenization to protect users’ payment information. This robust security approach reassures customers that their data is safe, fostering trust in purchases made on Etsy.

How does Apple Pay compare to traditional payment methods?

Apple Pay offers a more efficient and faster checkout process than traditional methods like PayPal. It reduces cart abandonment rates and provides a seamless experience, aligning with modern customer expectations for convenience and security.

Image Via Envato: Pressmaster, LesiaScotch, Daria_Nipot, ederpaisan

This article, "Enhance Your Etsy Shop with Apple Pay for the Web: A Guide to Seamless Transactions" was first published on Small Business Trends

Monday, April 7, 2025

Build-to-Rent Sector Hits Record High With 39,000 Single-Family Rentals Completed in 2024

The build-to-rent (BTR) housing market continued its upward surge in 2024, reaching a historic milestone with 39,000 new single-family rentals completed across the United States, according to a new report from Point2Homes. Based on Yardi Matrix data as of March 2025, this figure marks a 15.5% increase over 2023 and underscores the sector’s rapid growth since the pandemic era, when completions hovered around 6,000 to 7,000 units annually.

Point2Homes’ analysis highlights how the BTR model—which merges the low-maintenance appeal of rentals with the space and privacy of detached homes—has evolved into one of the fastest-growing segments of single-family home construction. The sector now accounts for nearly 10% of all home builds, a stark rise from 3% just a few years ago.

Southern and Southwestern Metros Lead the Charge

Phoenix led the nation in BTR completions last year with 4,460 new units, an 18% year-over-year increase. It was followed by Dallas with 3,197 completions and Atlanta with 3,035. These three metros, along with Houston (2,505 units), formed the core of a rapidly expanding BTR frontier across the South and Southwest.

Other metros with more than 1,000 new single-family rental units completed in 2024 include Charlotte, NC (1,415); Jacksonville, FL (1,201); Huntsville, AL (1,098); Columbus, OH (1,018); and Tampa, FL (1,005).

In total, the top 10 states for BTR completions in 2024 were led by Texas (6,994), followed by Florida (5,379), Arizona (4,812), and Georgia (4,095). North Carolina, California, Ohio, South Carolina, Alabama, and Utah also posted significant growth in completions, with all but South Carolina recording five-year highs.

Inventory Pipeline Remains Strong

The BTR sector is not only looking back on a record year but also preparing for continued growth, with nearly 110,000 single-family rentals currently in various stages of development. This includes 76,000 units under construction and almost 34,000 more in the permitting pipeline.

Phoenix again leads all U.S. metros with 13,010 units in development, followed by Dallas (8,450), Atlanta (6,644), Charlotte (4,886), and Houston (3,969).

Drivers of Growth

The ongoing expansion of the BTR sector is being driven by several key trends. These include millennials forming families but unable to afford homeownership, high-income renters opting out of ownership, retirees seeking low-maintenance lifestyles, and remote workers needing more living space.

Additionally, fast-growing states such as Texas, Florida, and Arizona continue to attract new residents, further fueling demand. Between 2023 and 2024, Texas added nearly 563,000 people, while Florida gained over 23 million residents, and North Carolina surpassed 11 million in population.

Largest Communities Completed in 2024

Among the largest BTR communities completed in 2024 was Litsey Creek Cottages in Roanoke, TX, with 396 units. Other significant completions included Viviano at Riverton in Utah with 364 units, and The Bungalows on Camelback in Phoenix with 334 units. These projects feature extensive amenities such as swimming pools, clubhouses, fitness centers, and playgrounds.

Five-Year Growth Overview

From 2019 to 2024, the total number of completed BTR homes more than doubled from around 107,000 to over 217,000 units. Phoenix led all metros with 12,702 completions over this five-year span, followed by Dallas (10,413), Atlanta (7,553), and Houston (5,250).

Notably, metros like Charlotte, Jacksonville, and Huntsville saw some of the most significant percentage increases, with Huntsville posting a 1,368% rise in inventory compared to 2019.

Image: Envato

This article, "Build-to-Rent Sector Hits Record High With 39,000 Single-Family Rentals Completed in 2024" was first published on Small Business Trends

Creative Event Ideas for Retail Stores to Boost Customer Engagement and Loyalty

Key Takeaways

Party time fun celebration event minimal concept hands with blackboard text Party time on white
  • Engage Customers with Events: Hosting events, such as seasonal promotions and holiday-themed activities, creates memorable experiences that attract foot traffic and foster customer loyalty.
  • Leverage Local Collaborations: Partnering with local businesses for joint events can amplify visibility, enhance community ties, and drive traffic to your store through shared audiences.
  • Support Community Causes: Organizing charity events around local nonprofits can enhance your store’s reputation while demonstrating commitment to community welfare, helping customers connect with your brand on a deeper level.
  • Offer Educational Experiences: Workshops and demonstrations not only showcase your products but also provide valuable learning opportunities, making your store a go-to destination for expertise.
  • Utilize Online Engagement: Implementing social media challenges and virtual shopping experiences helps to enhance accessibility and maintain customer interest, broadening your brand’s reach beyond physical constraints.
  • Create Exclusive Launch Events: Intimate product launch parties with loyal customers and local influencers can generate buzz and excitement, promoting new items while strengthening customer relationships.

In today’s competitive retail landscape, creating memorable experiences can set your store apart. Hosting events not only draws in customers but also fosters a sense of community and loyalty. Whether you’re launching a new product or celebrating a seasonal sale, the right event can transform your store into a vibrant hub of activity.

You might be wondering where to start. From interactive workshops to themed parties, the possibilities are endless. Engaging events can showcase your brand’s personality while offering customers a unique reason to visit. Let’s explore some creative event ideas that can elevate your retail space and leave a lasting impression on your audience.

Creative Event Ideas For Retail Stores

Open cafe restaurant, retail store, small business owner concept.

Creating engaging events invites customers into your retail space and fosters community connections. You can incorporate various events to enhance your brand’s visibility and strengthen customer loyalty.

Seasonal Promotions

Seasonal promotions capitalize on specific times of the year, drawing in customers eager to take advantage of special deals. You might host a summer sale with outdoor activities, like a picnic at your store or free refreshments. For autumn, consider a harvest festival that includes local vendors, live music, and seasonal treats. These promotions not only attract foot traffic but also create an enjoyable shopping atmosphere.

Holiday-Themed Events

Holiday-themed events make your retail store a festive destination. You could organize a winter wonderland experience, featuring holiday decorations, gift-wrapping stations, and hot cocoa. For small businesses, hosting a “Shop Local” night during the holiday season encourages residents to support local shops. Offer exclusive discounts or bundles that showcase your products’ appeal. Engaging your customers with mini-events like meet-and-greets with local artisans further enhances the holiday shopping experience and builds lasting relationships.

Community Engagement Strategies

Rear side of Audiences sitting and listening the speackers on the stage; event and seminar concept

Engaging with your community fosters loyalty and boosts your retail business’s visibility. Implementing effective strategies can create lasting connections and enhance customer experiences.

Local Collaborations

Partner with local businesses to host joint events that attract customers to your retail store. Collaborations can include co-hosted workshops, pop-up markets, or local artist showcases. These partnerships not only cross-promote products but also strengthen community ties. For example, teaming up with a nearby café for a “Shop and Sip” event encourages customers to enjoy a unique shopping experience while supporting multiple local businesses. This strategy leverages shared audiences, maximizing foot traffic and sales for everyone involved.

Charity Events

Organize charity events to demonstrate your commitment to community welfare while driving traffic to your store. Consider hosting fundraising activities where a percentage of sales goes to local causes. Events like donation drives, awareness campaigns, or themed fundraisers can create positive buzz around your retail business. For instance, a fashion show featuring your products, with proceeds supporting a local nonprofit, can engage customers while contributing to a good cause. This approach not only enhances your store’s reputation but also builds stronger relationships with customers who value community support.

In-Store Experiences

Lovers' Day concept, romantic couple event objects

Creating engaging in-store experiences is essential for attracting customers and building loyalty in your retail business. By hosting events, you can not only highlight your brand’s personality but also forge deeper connections with your community.

Workshops and Demonstrations

Organizing workshops and demonstrations allows you to showcase your products while providing valuable learning experiences. These hands-on sessions can cover topics relevant to your business, such as product usage, DIY projects, or craft techniques. For instance, if you run a small business selling gardening supplies, you might host a workshop on planting techniques that include step-by-step guidance. By encouraging audience participation, you foster a sense of community and make your store a go-to destination for expertise and support.

Exclusive Launch Parties

Holding exclusive launch parties for new products or services generates excitement and draws attention to your retail business. Inviting loyal customers and local influencers can create buzz around your offerings. Provide light refreshments, live music, or giveaways to enhance the experience. For example, if you’re launching a new line of apparel, consider a fashion show to highlight the pieces while engaging your guests. These visually appealing events not only promote new items but also strengthen customer relationships, encouraging repeat visits and word-of-mouth referrals.

Online and Virtual Events

Young Caucasian woman sitting at home with balloons pastel colors. Theme events concept

Online and virtual events provide small businesses unique opportunities to connect with customers and enhance brand visibility without physical constraints.

Social Media Challenges

Social media challenges encourage engagement and creativity. You can create a hashtag specific to your retail business and invite customers to share photos or videos of themselves using your products. Offering incentives, like discounts or giveaways for participation, can boost interest. Engaging with users through likes and comments fosters community and keeps your brand at the forefront of their minds. For example, a small clothing store might host a style challenge, asking customers to showcase different outfits using the same item, increasing brand awareness.

Virtual Shopping Experiences

Virtual shopping experiences enhance convenience and accessibility for customers. You could organize live-stream shopping events, where you present products in real-time and interact with viewers. Hosting exclusive online sales or virtual trunk shows allows customers to shop from anywhere while accessing special discounts. Implementing a personalized shopping session via video chat can further enhance customer service by providing tailored recommendations based on individual needs. For instance, a local home goods store might offer virtual tours of their latest collections, allowing customers to ask questions and receive immediate feedback.

Conclusion

Celebration concept with pink confetti and event decoration on white background

Embracing innovative event ideas can transform your retail space into a vibrant hub that attracts customers and fosters loyalty. Whether you choose to host interactive workshops or seasonal celebrations your efforts will create memorable experiences that resonate with your audience.

By engaging with the community through partnerships and charity events you’ll not only boost foot traffic but also enhance your brand’s reputation. Don’t forget the potential of online events to reach a wider audience and keep your customers connected.

The right mix of in-store and virtual experiences can elevate your retail strategy ensuring you stand out in a competitive market. Start planning your next event today and watch your customer relationships flourish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Urban Fashion Enthusiast Delighted by Black Friday Shopping Spree. Concept of Retail Therapy and

Why are memorable experiences important in retail?

Creating memorable experiences in retail helps businesses stand out in a competitive market. These experiences attract customers, build community, and foster loyalty, leading to repeat visits and positive word-of-mouth referrals.

What types of events can retailers host to attract customers?

Retailers can host various events, including interactive workshops, themed parties, seasonal promotions, and holiday-themed activities. Each event can showcase the brand’s personality and provide unique reasons for customers to visit.

How can community engagement enhance a retail business?

Engaging with the community through joint events, charity drives, or partnerships with local businesses can strengthen community ties, boost visibility, and create positive experiences that enhance the store’s reputation and customer loyalty.

What role do workshops and demonstrations play in retail?

Workshops and demonstrations provide valuable learning experiences while showcasing products. They help engage customers, increase foot traffic, and create lasting relationships by offering hands-on sessions relevant to the business.

How can retailers effectively use online events?

Retailers can use online events, like social media challenges or live-stream shopping, to enhance brand visibility and customer engagement. These initiatives allow businesses to connect with a broader audience and strengthen community ties without physical constraints.

Image Via Envato: nateemee, denira21, alinabuphoto, BBTree2012, thananit_s, ijeab, IrynaKhabliuk

This article, "Creative Event Ideas for Retail Stores to Boost Customer Engagement and Loyalty" was first published on Small Business Trends

YouTube Tops List of Platforms Where Users Forget Passwords Most Often

A recent study by influencer marketing platform Heepsy reveals that YouTube users are more likely than users of any other platform to forget their passwords and request account recovery help. The study, which analyzed password-related search queries across 35 major platforms, found that YouTube leads with the highest volume of password reset activity, both in absolute numbers and per capita.

According to the findings, YouTube users request new passwords more than four times a year on average, with a staggering 1.4 billion total password-related searches. This equates to 35,899 searches per 100,000 users, making it the most problematic platform in terms of password memory.

Video streaming platforms dominated the top rankings. Facebook followed in second place with 593 million password recovery searches, or 28,238 per 100,000 users. Pinterest ranked third, logging 83.6 million searches among its 417 million active users, or 20,045 searches per 100,000. The data indicates that users of content consumption platforms like YouTube and Pinterest face password-related problems up to 43 times more often than users of communication-focused platforms.

Heepsy’s study utilized search behavior data based on three common queries: “[Platform] password reset,” “[Platform] forgot password,” and “[Platform] recover account.” These queries reflect user intent to regain access to their accounts and were adjusted relative to each platform’s active monthly user count.

“The platform where people forget their passwords the most is YouTube, leading with the highest number of password-related searches,” the study notes.

The fourth and fifth spots were claimed by X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram, respectively. X users averaged one password reset per year, with 77 million total queries. Instagram saw just 5,894 password-related searches per 100,000 users, totaling 94.3 million queries—79% fewer than Facebook, despite having a similar user base.

Spotify came in sixth, generating 4,236 password recovery searches per 100,000 users. Its users demonstrated a clear pattern, with “forgot password” searches (14.1 million) vastly outpacing “recover account” searches (59,500).

LinkedIn, Twitch, Line, and Discord rounded out the top ten. LinkedIn users registered 2,603 password-related searches per 100,000, while Twitch followed closely with 2,288. Line saw just 1,914, and Discord had the lowest search frequency at 1,032 per 100,000 users.

Discord’s user base showed the fewest signs of password issues, with just 0.1 password resets per user annually. The platform’s focus on persistent logins across devices and sessions likely contributes to this reduced need for password recovery.

In contrast, YouTube’s widespread use across devices may explain its top ranking. “YouTube’s massive base of 3.9 billion monthly active users, along with its cross-device usage patterns, contributes significantly to its top position in password reset frequency,” the report states.

Image: Envato

This article, "YouTube Tops List of Platforms Where Users Forget Passwords Most Often" was first published on Small Business Trends