5 ways small businesses can prepare for the holiday season

(BPT) - If you're a small business owner, you know what the holiday season means for your bottom line. But with 2021 bringing a wave of unprecedented challenges, it's hard to know if you're prepared for the busiest time of year. Fortunately, there are resources available to help you stay on top of all the little things that need to get done - so you can focus on the big picture and end the year stronger than ever.

Here are five tips to help you save time, stay organized and reach your customers during the holiday season and beyond.

1. Get your technology ready

Whether you rely on online sales, in-store business or both, be prepared for a fast-paced selling season with technology that's updated, protected by current security software and backed up. For products, support and services to conquer the holiday hustle and bustle, Office Depot offers everything you need to be up-to-date, including services for all your last-minute tech needs and 24/7 IT remote support from experienced technicians.

2. Choose time-saving services to get errands done

Time is extremely valuable in November and December, so don't waste it - take advantage of same-day services to get what you need as soon as possible. Office Depot recently introduced a '20-Minute Pickup Promise,' offering customers the ability to order products online and get free in-store and curbside pickup in 20 minutes or get $20 off their next qualifying purchase.*

Office Depot also offers Same-Day Delivery. Customers can simply place a qualifying order, choose the delivery window that's convenient for them, and the products will be delivered to their door in as little as one hour.

3. Market your seasonal events and promotions

Before big events or holiday promotions, make sure your customers know all about them. With small business solutions from Office Depot, you can plan an effective marketing strategy and print eye-catching materials to help make your business shine.

With Office Depot's Same-Day Printing Services, you can also choose from a wide portfolio of print solutions including flyers, signs, posters, banners, marketing materials, cards and more - all ready for same-day pick-up. Qualifying orders must be placed in-store, or online for in-store pickup, by 2:00 p.m. local time, and Same-Day Service must be requested at the time of ordering.

4. Ship faster

For gifts, supplies or products you need shipped to yourself or others, take advantage of Office Depot's free Next Business-Day Delivery on qualifying orders of $45 or more**.

5. Celebrate your staff

Finally, as 2021 draws to a close, make sure your employees know how much you appreciate their hard work, especially during the holiday rush. Office Depot offers a variety of gifts for every team member on your list this year. Consider creating and printing custom holiday cards or photo gifts too that show individual appreciation for staff as well as clients and vendors.

Find services and solutions to succeed this holiday season with savings all season long at OfficeDepot.com and in Office Depot and OfficeMax stores nationwide.

* Curbside pickup is available in most stores, subject to state and local regulations. Orders must be placed 1 hour before store closing. If your order is not ready in 20 minutes, you will receive an email, within 48 hours of placing your order, with a coupon for $20 off your next qualifying purchase. Certain exclusions apply. Excludes tax. No cash back. See email for coupon terms and conditions. Office Depot reserves the right to modify or cancel the offer at any time. Same-day print services are excluded form 20-minute promise.

** Free Shipping/Delivery: Minimum purchase required after discounts and before taxes. Orders must be placed by 5:00 P.M. local time (in most locations) via phone/online or 3:00 PM via fax. Orders outside our local delivery area and most furniture, oversized, bulk items, cases of bottled water and other beverages and special-order items do not qualify. Non-qualifying orders incur a delivery charge. Delivery fees will be noted prior to purchase. Other restrictions apply. See OfficeDepot.com/delivery, call 800.GO.DEPOT or ask a store associate for details

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