Opening a gift shop is a dream retail experience; you get to meet people from across the country and around the world. You never know who might stop into your shop, so you want to make sure you have something to satisfy everyone to ensure you make a sale off every tourist who decides to browse. Most tourists want to spend their money on something that will remind them of their travels and the experiences they had. You can help them do that when you carry must-have items for your souvenir shop.

Must-Have Items for Your Souvenir Shop

Sell Snacks

You’ll find few gift shops that don’t sell food. The most popular treats are regional favorites or candies that feature wrappers to promote the area. Depending on your region, you can find specially wrapped candy bars and other themed treats. Tourists gravitate toward brightly colored candies like lollipops; the difference between a sucker and a lollipop is mainly the name—you can call them either one.

Pro Tip: Keep snacks near the cash register where tourists often make impulse buys!

Provoke Nostalgia

Souvenir shops that include a vintage touch tend to attract more customers. Whether you invest in rustic decor or aim to sell old-fashioned goodies, you will attract tourists and locals alike. For example, people like to gift and collect retro postcards, tiny spoons, and board games from their travels.

Remind Visitors About What Makes Your Region Unique

Keep items in your gift shop that are representative of your area. You want your souvenirs to remind guests of the travels they are taking once they get home. Further, you may attract locals who like to show off their hometown pride. The most common items you can sell to represent your region include:

• T-shirts

• Hoodies

• Hats

• Keychains

• Candles

Add a Personal Touch

The most memorable souvenir shops sell something unique and novel. While not every tourist will walk out with a novelty item, you will find that many guests go wild for them. In fact, some tourists seek them out. Offer novelty items themed after the area or a nearby attraction. For instance, you could offer beach-themed merchandise if you’re near a coast or sport-themed items if you are near an arena. 

Pro Tip: Include items in your shop that a guest can personalize. Consider starting with necklaces or keychains with tourists’ names.

Check out other gift shops in your area to find out what items are most popular in their stores. Further, you can look in the gift shops of the major attractions in your area to find out what locals and tourists are most interested in buying. Keeping must-have items for your souvenir shop in stock is the best path toward success with your business.