Black Friday Table Set-Up: Tips and Legalities for Walmart Parking Lot

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Discussion Overview

The thread explores experiences and opinions regarding setting up a table in Walmart parking lots during Black Friday, as well as ideas for Black Friday promotions among Pampered Chef consultants.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Opinion-based
  • Anecdotal

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about the legality of setting up a table in Walmart parking lots during Black Friday.
  • Another participant shares their experience that Walmart requires permission for such setups, which is typically not granted to for-profit companies.
  • Several users express skepticism about the effectiveness of setting up a table, noting that most people in line are unlikely to engage.
  • One participant suggests that handing out recipe cards with promotional flyers might be a more viable option.
  • Another participant discusses potential Black Friday specials, including offering free cookbooks with certain purchases.
  • One consultant mentions a time-based discount strategy for Black Friday sales, while expressing concerns about its feasibility for customers in different time zones.
  • Another participant shares their approach of offering a flat percentage discount over a 24-hour period instead of time-specific discounts.
  • Some participants discuss the general rules against solicitation at large stores like Walmart.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the practicality of setting up tables in parking lots, with some participants expressing doubt about its effectiveness and legality, while others focus on promotional strategies for Black Friday sales.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reflects personal experiences and opinions of consultants regarding promotional strategies and legal considerations for setting up in public spaces during Black Friday.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants looking for insights on Black Friday promotional strategies and the legalities of setting up sales in public areas may find this discussion relevant.

naekelsey
Gold Member
Messages
726
Has anyone set up a table in the Walmart parking lot (or anywhere) while everyone is waiting in line for the stores to open for their Black Friday sale? Do you know if it is even legal to do that? If you have, how did it go?
 
You have to get permission from WalMart to do that. You won't. Mine had a sidewalk craft fair last summer and I could not set up because the vendors had to either be civic organizations or homemade crafters. For profit companies can not solicit.
 
I doubt you would get much anyway. Not many will get out of the line to come to the table.
Stay home and enjoy your family. :)
 
I don't think you'd get Wal-Mart's permission either and I agree that most people won't get out of a line to come to your booth. My Wal-Mart is 24 hours, so everyone's already inside the store & the employees uncover the "sale" stuff at the designated time.Maybe hand out recipe cards with a small flyer advertising a Black Friday sale? That might be your best bet. Otherwise, I think the only way you'd get permission for a booth is if you were handing out free coffee or something.
 
Does anyone offer their customers any type of Black Friday specials? I am open to ideas - thinking about emailing all my customers and posting something on Facebook for Black Friday and also Cyber Monday. Any suggestions?
 
I was thinking of doing Free cookbooks for Black Friday. Everyone will get a Season's Best and certain purchases can earn another free $7-8 cookbook:
- The corresponding cookbook to a product (ie the DCB book, the MFP recipe cards, Spin on Salads)
- Chose from the rest with any order over $50.
 
... hm, or do this as a Facebook/Online show for Cyber Monday?
 
A lot of consultants do a time thing ...Order between 6AM-7:59AM ~ save 20%
Order between 8AM-10:59AM ~ save 15%
Order between 11AM - 12:59AM ~ save 10% ...I don't like sitting by the phone & I definitely don't want to get up at 6AM. I also have customers on military bases in Japan, Germany & Spain, as well as all my stateside customers. So time things don't work well for my customers, as some would be sleeping. I just do a 24 hours sale with a flat % off their order ~ with the stipulation that it ends at midnight (Central time zone) or when the show reaches $1,000 ~ which ever comes first. That's worked for me! :D
 
I do the sale like Sheila was talking about, but I'm not sitting home by the phone. My customers leave me a voice mail, email me, or send me a Facebook message. I get back to them another time. Me? I'm out shopping.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #10
Is it like that with any stores, not just Walmart?
 
Pretty much any big block store. If you have any local shops in a strip mall you might want to see if they'd let you set up outside.
 
How do the % off work? Do you have to pay the rest? I have been thinking of doing something too...
 
ParkerWomanCooking said:
How do the % off work? Do you have to pay the rest? I have been thinking of doing something too...

do a search for "black friday"... you'll find lots of flyers, tips, plans, ideas, etc.

But, the short answer is, yes, you have to pay the rest (but remember you'll earn commission)...
 
Yes, I put the % off I give them as Consultant Gift, which helps me to keep track for taxes.
 
At Walmart, they have specific rules that prohibit solicitation of any material to customers and employees.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the legal requirements for setting up a table in a Walmart parking lot on Black Friday?

Before setting up a table in a Walmart parking lot, it's essential to check local laws and regulations regarding permits for sales and promotions. Many municipalities require a vendor permit, and Walmart may have its own policies regarding outside vendors. Contact your local Walmart management and city hall to ensure compliance.

Do I need permission from Walmart to set up my table?

Yes, you must obtain permission from Walmart management before setting up your table. Each Walmart location has its own policies regarding outside vendors, and failure to get approval could result in being asked to leave the premises.

What are some tips for effectively setting up my table on Black Friday?

To maximize your setup on Black Friday, consider the following tips: choose a high-traffic area for visibility, use eye-catching signage, have promotional materials ready, and ensure your table is well-organized. Additionally, offer samples or demonstrations to attract customers and engage them effectively.

How can I ensure the safety of my setup and customers?

To ensure safety, make sure your table is stable and secure, avoid blocking walkways, and keep your area tidy to prevent tripping hazards. Additionally, have hand sanitizer available and encourage social distancing if necessary, to create a safe shopping environment for customers.

What should I do if I get asked to leave by Walmart staff?

If Walmart staff asks you to leave, it's crucial to comply politely. Gather your materials and leave the area without confrontation. You can inquire about their policies and ask if there are designated areas for vendors in the future, which may help you plan for future events.

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