Christmas can bring opportunities as well as pressure. The Cofi video “Are You Ready for Christmas. A Small Business Owner’s Guide to Christmas 2026” gives you a seasonal learning resource to watch while reviewing your own preparations.
This Cofi teaching session is presented by Rob Steadman, who runs the free Cofi Business Network.
Watch the Cofi teaching video on YouTube
Plan around your actual capacity
Begin with the dates that matter: ordering deadlines, appointment availability, delivery cut-offs and any closure period. Make sure the information customers see matches what your business can deliver. A service business may need a clear booking calendar, while a retailer may need accurate stock information and dispatch planning. Decide how enquiries will be answered when staff are away. Advertising a seasonal offer before checking these details can create avoidable disappointment. You do not need to make every Christmas activity bigger. Choose what you can fulfil reliably, communicate it clearly and leave time to review the results after the busy period.
Three actions to try
- Write down your last realistic order or booking date.
- Check stock, staff cover and delivery arrangements.
- Make customer-facing opening information clear.
Questions and answers
Should every business run a Christmas discount?
No. Consider your margins, audience and capacity. Useful information or a well-chosen package may suit your business better than reducing prices.
Where can I ask questions and find more free help?
Cofi Business Network is 100% free. You can meet other business owners, share experience and explore practical ideas. Join whether you are starting out or already running an established business.
Join the free Cofi Business Network
Join the Cofi WhatsApp group to connect with the network and receive updates. Read about Cofi Business Network and explore our free small business resources. For meeting information, email info@digitalsolutions.help.