5 Proven Ways to Prepare Your Small Business for the Holiday Season

The holiday season is often the most profitable time of year for small businesses, but it can also be the most stressful. For nearly 8 in 10 small businesses, holiday sales are essential to annual revenue (SBA.gov). Whether you’re in retail, food service, or a professional trade, preparation is key to finishing the year strong and setting up for a successful 2026. Here are five research-backed ways to prepare your small business for the busy season ahead. 

1. Review Last Year’s Numbers

Your past performance is your best guide. Look at last year’s sales data to identify best-selling products, peak hours, and slower periods. This helps you make smarter decisions about inventory, staffing, and marketing. Avoid overstocking, which ties up cash, or under-ordering, which leads to missed sales. With 2025 holiday spending expected to rise modestly (Fit Small Business), smart forecasting gives you a competitive edge.

2. Strengthen Your Online Presence

Most customers start their shopping journey online, even if they plan to buy in person. Make sure your website is mobile-friendly, loads quickly, and clearly lists your products, hours, and return policy. If possible, simplify your checkout process and offer digital gift cards or pickup options. Shoppers are more likely to complete a purchase when the experience is fast, convenient, and trustworthy. 

3. Start Marketing Early

Holiday shoppers are planning earlier each year with many start browsing as early as October (Small Business Edge). Create a promotional calendar that includes early-bird offers and reminders leading up to key shopping weekends like Small Business Saturday. You don’t need a big budget; consistency and timing matter more than volume. Email newsletters, social media posts, and local collaborations can all help you stay visible. 

4. Offer Flexibility and Transparency

Customers appreciate flexibility during the holidays. Offer multiple payment options, easy returns, and clear communication about shipping or pickup timelines. If you sell services, consider offering digital gift cards or bundled packages to boost convenience and average order value. Transparency builds trust and trust builds repeat business. 

5. Think Beyond December

Your holiday sales are only part of the story. Create a plan to follow up with new customers after the season ends: thank-you notes, loyalty discounts, or check-ins can turn one-time buyers into long-term relationships. According to Lifewire, more than a quarter of small businesses never follow up after a sale, missing a valuable chance to build loyalty. 

Set Your Business Up for a Strong Finish 

A little preparation now can make a big difference later. Reviewing data, improving your online experience, and planning early marketing can help you make this holiday season your most successful yet. 

At UCEDC, our goal is to give you the tools and knowledge you need to grow. Our free workshops, business counseling, and lending programs can help you strengthen your operations and position your business for success this holiday season — and all year long. 

Explore our upcoming workshops and see how UCEDC can help your business thrive.