September 21, 2011: Do It Yourself
The DIY (do-it-yourself) trend has been around for several years, giving rise to countless home decorating and repair shows, and even a cable TV network.
But the trend is picking up new steam -and it has nothing to do with remodeling your kitchen or sewing yourself a new fall wardrobe.
The new DIY could actually stand for “Design-it-yourself.” There are an increasing number of businesses inviting consumers to design and personalize their own jewelry, handbags, makeup, home décor (like pillows and couches), perfume and tennis shoes.
And DIY is not just about personal and home accessories either. You can now design your own food. The current (October issue) of Consumer Reports ShopSmart magazine listed various places across the country where you can design your own chocolate bars, cupcakes, tea blends, cereal, ice cream and even energy bars.
The appeal of DIY spans several generations and demographics of consumers. Its biggest appeal is allowing consumers to stand apart from the crowds-teens in particular don’t want to dress and look exactly like their friends.
But it’s also about fun-which is something many American are in search of, after too many years of economic turmoil.
If you’re already in business you can capitalize on this trend by coming up with new ways your customers can customize your products to their specific tastes.
Allowing your customers to personalize your goods might take a little more effort on your part, but most consumers are likely to be willing to pay more for a one-of-a-kind creation.
Remember when Burger King used to say, “Have it your way”? Today consumers want it their way, and smart entrepreneurs will make it easy (and enticing) for them to get just that.