Consumer spending and card transaction data consistently show a spike in economic activity over the Easter long weekend, especially in the tourism, retail and hospitality sectors. For many South African entrepreneurs and small businesses, this presents a golden opportunity to expand reach and boost revenue amid increasingly challenging trading conditions. This year, SMEs are presented with an additional opportunity to boost sales with a second long weekend in April, courtesy of the Freedom Day holiday.
However, a surge in demand can just as easily overwhelm unprepared businesses, resulting in long queues, stock shortages, and disgruntled staff and consumers. This is according to Friedrich Meisenholl, Regional Investment Manager at Business Partners Limited, who urges local small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to plan for this high-traffic weekend.
“Too many businesses approach peak periods reactively,” says Meisenholl. “The better approach is to analyse historical sales data and use that to forecast demand. If Easter was a particularly busy time last year, assume the same – or more – this year, and make sure you’re adequately stocked and staffed for it.”
He adds that retailers and hospitality businesses should begin stocking up on popular or seasonal items well in advance, considering any potential supply chain delays around public holidays. “For restaurants or cafes, streamlining the menu to feature high-margin, easy-to-prepare items can help reduce pressure on kitchen staff without sacrificing customer satisfaction.”
High customer volumes can also mean longer trading hours and greater staff demands. To manage this, Meisenholl says business owners should ensure that their teams are well-sized and trained. “For SMEs with more nimble teams, it might make sense to bring in temporary workers or reserve staff to help during the busy weekend. It’s critical, however, to ensure that any onboarding and training is done ahead of time, as ill-equipped staff can often do more harm than good.”
On the topic of training, Meisenholl also recommends cross-training staff to perform multiple functions. “For example, waitstaff who can help with basic prep in the kitchen can increase operational flexibility during peak hours.”
As operational efficiency is vital during high-demand periods, businesses should look at ways to reduce friction across key touchpoints, such as payment, ordering, or check-in processes. “If you usually rely on manual invoicing or handwritten orders, consider switching to faster digital systems to reduce the chance of human error,” says Meisenholl. “Even something as simple as adding a mobile point-of-sale device can help reduce bottlenecks and improve the customer experience.”
In the service sector, online booking systems and automated reminders can reduce no-shows and help manage flow more effectively. Whereas in retail, digital payment tools and mobile checkout points can reduce queue times and keep customers moving.
When trading is busy, Meisenholl acknowledges that it’s easy for service standards to quickly decline but emphasises that maintaining a high standard of customer experience is key to securing repeat business and referrals after the Easter weekend.
“Even in a rush, people remember how you made them feel,” says Meisenholl. “Make sure your staff are briefed to remain friendly, helpful and calm under pressure. A quick apology or small gesture can go a long way if there’s a delay.”
He also recommends preparing clear signage or communications about any service changes, menu adjustments or wait times, to manage expectations from the outset.
Finally, Meisenholl highlights the importance of staff wellbeing. “It’s tempting to focus on maximising output, but burning out your team is counterproductive. Build in regular breaks, keep them hydrated and offer incentives like meals or overtime pay to boost morale.
“A debrief after the weekend can also help staff feel heard and help identify what worked and what didn’t, to inform planning for future peak periods,” he adds.
The Easter weekend can be a make-or-break moment for small businesses – particularly those in holiday destinations or high-footfall areas – so there’s no excuse to be unprepared. “By planning ahead you’re not only ensuring a smooth long weekend; you’re positioning your business to capitalise on a valuable once-a-year economic opportunity,” concludes Meisenholl.
About the Author: Friedrich
