Help Your Startup Weather Record-high Inflation

Costs go up and sales go down. That’s the double whammy of inflation. When prices of the items you need to run your business increase, profit margins decrease, leaving a business owner in a precarious position. Here are steps you can take that may help maintain profits.

Adjust Pricing

If your costs are greater than your revenue, you may have no choice but to increase prices. Consider raising regular prices, while offering sales and promotions that attract customers and boost your profits. Bundling related products at a small discount can also be profitable, since customers are spending more to get a bargain.

Renegotiate Terms

Ask vendors for longer repayment terms so you can hold onto your cash for as long as possible. Manage cash flow on your end by sending out invoices quickly to customers and making the payment period shorter.

Cut Expenses

Reducing costs is a sure way to increase profit margins. Downsize your office space and/or have employees work remotely if your business isn’t customer-facing. If you need to maintain your physical space, try negotiating lower rent and look for ways to cut utility costs. Shop around for less expensive vendors and service providers or negotiate pricing with those you currently use. Looking at all costs line by line may help you find significant savings across the board.

Add Product Lines

Introducing new products that complement the ones you’re already offering can bring in new customers and encourage current customers to purchase additional items. Consider featuring a subscription service that allows customers to get a discount on products or services they buy or use frequently.

Promote Loyalty

When it comes to purchasing goods or services, customers have a lot of options. A loyalty program that rewards them for their purchases can keep customers coming back to you. Loyalty programs also can attract new customers and give you an edge over your competition.

Keep in Touch

Maintain a database with contact information for people who use your products or services. Sending periodic emails or texts announcing sales and discounts can bring customers to your business with little effort on your part.