Cross promotion adds value in a down economy

An article in the Detroit Free Press talks about how a successful local grocery chain is offering a restaurant discount card to shoppers who spend $100 or more.  In a push to encourage people to support  local eateries, Hiller’s has created a program known as Hometown First.  These are the types of cross promotional activities that create valued partner connections in a down economy.  The community oriented nature of this promotion is very, very cool.  More importantly, it demonstrates the commitment of a food store like Hiller’s to the business community.  This is a great lesson to all businesses.  Build strong partners–you never know how they can support you later!

When you examine your business community, what are some of the cross promotional relationships you can develop to try to drive your customers to other businesses and attract their customers to your business?  When people buy from you, it is expected that they trust your product and your service.  Creating a cross promotional relationship with another business or business segment has the same effect as a referral.  In today’s economy, everyone could use more referrals.  Give it some thought.