At many local businesses, customer appreciation day inspires a platter of Oreos on the receptionist’s desk, coupled with a carafe of old, bad coffee. But that’s—uninspiring.

Don’t misunderstand us. Cookies and coffee are well and good. But it’s been done before. Your competitors have probably rolled out that trick. Set yourself apart with one of our ideas for showing customers how much you appreciate their business.

How Foodies Feel Appreciated
Before you complain that we just mocked businesses that serve cookies to customers they appreciate, let us explain. Food is still an excellent language for telling customers you love them. We just wish you’d serve them something unusual to make them feel special. Rent a cotton candy machine or dish up strawberry ice cream.

Grateful Greetings
Long term customers, especially ones with whom you’ve developed a rapport, will be touched by your thoughtfulness if you mark some significant milestone for their business. B2B companies can print cards commemorating the anniversary of their customer’s business. An unexpected thank-you card will delight individual patrons.

Just Because
Mail coupons to your customers for discounted services and thank them for the business. It’s a great way to boost sales for the month, and customers may end up spending more for your products or services with a discount. We believe that’s called a win-win.

Just Asking
Ask for their input to show customers that your business appreciates them and values their opinion. Question customers when they visit your store, or mail them a survey with a return stamp to boost response rates. If you think your call would be welcome, consider ringing them to ask about their experiences with your business. Soliciting feedback from clients is a low budget way to express customer appreciation.

Drawing Them In
After outgrowing high school sports, adults rarely get the chance to be on the winning team. Use that to your advantage by treating customers to a contest or giveaway. The game can be simple—like drawing business cards out of a punch bowl—or as complicated you like. The trick to generating interest in this expression of customer appreciation is rousing customers’ competitive spirits. As for the prize, offer something for free, or give them movie tickets.

You’re already ahead of the game when you’re willing to invest some of your company’s money or manpower in expressing customer appreciation. And the ROI on that investment is clear: happier, more loyal customers.