Looks like folks did their Easter basket shopping early. A quick tour of stores shows indicated that stores either bought well or ran sales to move Easter product out early.

Overheard in the aisles-- confusion on how to put a basket together.

Crafters particularly, are interested in creating their own Easter Baskets, they are less likely to go for the pre-assembled baskets found in mass  merchandisers. Savvy retailers will identify ways to move core product out via a seasonal sale.

Easter baskets and candy go hand in hand but many moms are looking to add other value in the form of art supplies and small gifts. The thing is they don't always think of what will work while they are shopping in your stores.

Consider suggestive selling for basket-worthy seasons like Easter and Christmas. At the same time you can generate store traffic. Here's how:

 Have employees assemble baskets using products from your store in different price ranges that your market will bear: $15, $25. $50. Have a least one big basket- there's always some zealous dad (I'm married to one) or grandma (his mom) who wants to have the BIGGEST basket available.

If you don't sell candy, partner with a local store that does. Use their candy and put some of your baskets in their store.

Consider baskets for older children and adults too. Instead of a tulip that will be bloomed out within days, wouldn't an avid scrapbooker prefer some cute stickers, some paper and a new punch?

Use items from all over the store, everything does not have to be easter themed!This could include, but not be limited to, art  materials, stamping & Scrapbooking products, threads and yarns, polymer clay, toys, plus, activity kits, etc etc. The  more you can make the basket look big or full at a seemingly low retail price, the better.

With each basket, have a list (ideally a copy they can take with them) of the items included, what they cost,  and where they can be found in the store.

You can raffle the baskets off the Saturday before Easter (pick a name Friday night) or you pre-sell them and have the customer pick the basket up on Saturday.

Of course you can always break up unsold baskets. Return the product to the shelves and eat the leftover candy!

Wishing all my industry friends Happy Passover, Happy Easter and a beautiful Spring!--Beth