Having baby changing stations for public restrooms in your business isn't just good for your customers with small children - it can also be great for your business! This is especially true in these economically challenging times, when many businesses are squaring off against both brick-and-mortar competitors and online firms. A little boost for your image can make a big difference in your sales.
Families Are Where the Money Is
According to the 2012 census, households with children bring in significantly more income per year than homes with no kids. This is true of both single parent residences and those led by married couples. Considering that more than 4 million babies are born in the US each year, it's clear that parents of diaper-aged kids represent a huge section of the American population. Adding baby changing stations to public restrooms in your establishment is one way you can attract these consumers. Read on for more helpful tips on how to attract and accommodate these customers!
Train Your Employees to Expect Children
Let's be honest - little ones can be noisy. We now know that in the first few years of life, the human body goes through massive changes, including the rapid development of mental abilities. As a result, it's only natural that young kids are energetic, curious and often quite vocal. It's important that your workers remember this - otherwise they may cringe every time they hear a baby cry! The goal is to help mom or dad feel welcome in your establishment, so it's important to train your employees to be as patient as possible with the children.
Offer Little Perks
Many food markets now set aside reserved parking spots for parents of young children. These are usually close to the entrance of the building, near the spaces for handicapped drivers. Other businesses place diapers and other "baby essentials" near the front of the store and/or have frequent sales on these items.
If you own a restaurant, then you can provide free crayons, puzzle pages or other activities to entertain younger kids. If you have a garage, doctor's office, or other establishment where customers may have to spend some time waiting, then have toys and books on hand. The more things you can do to welcome and accommodate people with young children, the more they will choose to spend money on your products and services.
Baby-Proof Your Building
Every parent knows that tiny fingers love to touch and explore. Unfortunately, this can sometimes include things that are dangerous for children, such as electrical outlets, staircases or other potentially harmful places. You can help put parents at ease by covering up outlets, putting up access gates where possible and "baby-proofing" other potential hazards.
Display Controversial Items With Care
Some parents may have more traditional outlooks and beliefs when it comes to their little ones. Depending on the type of business you own, this may affect what items you should carry or how you display them. Alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, adult-oriented publications and contraceptives are all potential "hot-button" items in this regard.
Don't Be Afraid to Toot Your Horn!
After you've invested your time, money and effort in making your establishment more family-friendly, be sure to maximize the effectiveness of your hard work by spreading the word about these changes in your local community. Parents will appreciate knowing that your business recognizes the important job they do. Some ways you can publicize your new policies include:
- Placing an advertisement in local newspapers or other publications.
- Adding a notice on your establishment's web page or social media site.
- Sending out bulletins through our mailing lists.
- Handing out flyers and displaying posters in your facility
- Encouraging word-of-mouth by speaking directly to customers.
Making your establishment more attractive to parents of young children is a good business practice in many ways, not only from a profit perspective but also in terms of making your community a better place. By combining the addition of baby changing stations for public restrooms with other initiatives, you can set your business apart as a place where even the youngest visitors can feel safe and welcome.