'Tis the season to indulge in sweets, and add to our waistlines. At this time of the year, bakeries are packed with customers and inundated with orders for high-quality desserts and treats. With countless holiday events happening, this is a time when bakeries can see their revenues and profits leap quite considerably. 

Although bakeries are celebrated for their holiday-themed cakes, cookies, pastries and other rich desserts, these establishments can do a lot more than just offer Christmas baked goods. Savvy bakery owners may offer generous holiday promotions, themed decorations and catering for special events. 

When bakeries reach maximum capacity in the weeks leading up to Christmas then it's a sign that you may need to also take on additional seasonal workers. Remember, everyone needs their sweet fix during the season to be jolly; bakeries are the answer. 

In order to take part in the festive spirit, significant business financing to cover these short-term expenses may be needed. Some bakeries may need to purchase specific equipment, buy delicious ingredients or take on extra staff. 

Here are five tips for bakeries to boost holiday profits.

Presentation

Bakeries are well known for their fantastic displays. For any bakery, displays and presentation are the biggest sell. When desserts and sweets are depicted as scrumptious and irresistible customers are more likely to grab a cake for the family or a dozen cookies for colleagues. 

Decorations

Every business that wants to take part in the holiday shopping season needs to adopt the Christmas décor. A bakery doesn't have to have its own Santa Claus in-store, but happy holiday wishes placards, a tree and lights as store fixtures can be simple but effective methods to urge customers to get into the holiday spirit and splurge on sweets. 

Samples

Handing out free samples to patrons inside and bystanders outside is a great investment to give individuals a hint as to what certain cakes and desserts taste like. Considering how costly some ingredients are, it may be an expensive marketing tool, but it's one step closer to a sale, and may result in a long-term client. 

Customized Gift Baskets

Customized gift baskets filled with delicious holiday baked goods is one of the best gifts a person can give to a friend, family member, loved one or a colleague. We all love the sweet stuff so this is a product that can be easily marketed and it's quite likely that they will fly out the door once they're on display. 

Discounts & Promotions

It isn't enough to just have holiday-themed products for sale. It's important for any bakery to offer discounts and special promotions. Offering 10 percent off orders of $50 or more, promotions for office parties, family gatherings and other holiday get-togethers can give those sales numbers a shot in the arm in the final weeks or days leading into Christmas. 

The holiday season is a mixed blessing for retail establishments everywhere. On one hand, the holidays allow businesses to experience greater foot traffic. On the other hand, it requires heightened investment to participate in the Christmas shopping season. The best way to take advantage of the holidays is to use a business cash advance. It’s fast, flexible and easy to repay. By using a business cash advance ahead of the holidays, your bakery can cut a slice of Christmas and ring in the New Year with a bigger bottom line.