June 23, 2026 • John DiBacco, CEO
5 Summer Marketing Promos That Will Get People in the Door
Summer can be a slower season for local businesses. Vacations, changing routines and schedules can make it harder to stand out. The right promotion can give customers a reason to visit, make a purchase and bring friend and family along.
Here are five summer marketing ideas designed to get customers in the door.
Host a “Summer School”
Kids are out of school, and parents are looking for ways to keep them busy. Host a class or workshop that highlights what your business does.
A pizzeria could offer pizza making, a bakery could host cupcake decorating, a florist could teach floral design, and an auto shop could hold a basic car-care class for new drivers.
These events create a memorable experience and introduce new customers to your business.
Create a Local Business Passport
Partner with nearby businesses or your local chamber of commerce to create a summer passport program.
Customers receive a “stamp” when they make a purchase at each participating business. Those who complete the passport earn a prize, such as free ice cream, a pizza, a gift card or an exclusive t-shirt.
This encourages people to visit local businesses while giving each participant more exposure.
Offer a Summer Bundle
Bundle menu items, products or services into a summer package deal.
An auto shop could offer a “Road Trip Ready Special” that includes checking tires, battery, fluids, brakes and A/C. A branded travel mug, cooler bag or emergency car kit could make the package feel even more valuable.
Use a seasonal name, such as “Summer Ready Package” to make the offer feel timely and available for a limited time.
Run a Summer Giveaway or Raffle
Create a weekly or monthly giveaway to keep customers engaged throughout the summer.
Prizes could include beach gear, event/sport tickets, gift cards, or free products and services. Customers could enter by visiting the business, filling out an entry form or making a purchase.
Promote each winner on social media and announce the next prize to encourage repeat visits.
Introduce Weekly Summer-Themed Specials
Create a different summer-themed offer each week to keep your marketing fresh and give customers new reasons to visit.
One week could feature a “Heatwave Special” that is only valid when the temperature reaches 90+ degrees. A restaurant might offer a free cold drink or a percentage off a purchase when temperatures rise.
Other ideas include rainy-day deals, family bundles and community appreciation specials.
The offers do not have to be large discounts. A free add-on, bonus item, service upgrade or limited-time offer can still provide value.
Keep Customers Coming Back
The best summer promotions are easy to understand, relevant to the season and tied to a clear reason to visit.
Whether you host a class, partner with nearby businesses or create a summer bundle, focus on making the offer useful, timely and easy to promote.
Don’t let summer pass your business by.
Contact Moving Targets today and let’s build marketing campaigns that keeps your business visible all season long.
