Capitalizing on the Solar Eclipse

On August 21st, states from Oregon to the Carolinas will be able to view a total eclipse, with the rest of the United States being able to see it partially. This is the first total solar eclipse that will be visible coast-to-coast from the mainland United States since 1918. Many people have already started capitalizing on the rarity of this event.

Companies like Krispy Kreme, Royal Caribbean and Chiquita are all using the hype surrounding the eclipse to offer special products and deals. People will want t-shirts and other products to remember this day. If you look online you will already see many businesses offering eclipse products, so it is best not to wait until the hype of it has died down; you want to get in while its hot! North America will not see another eclipse until 2024.

A few great products to offer commemorating this event are t-shirts, huggers, key chains, and water bottles. Designs for these products can be very simple like a photograph or digitally designed eclipse and the date of the event. You can even make separate products for each state able to see the eclipse. We have seen some businesses make one t-shirt design that lists all of the states in the path of totality underneath the eclipse image, which seems to be very popular. Mix it up and don’t be afraid to make it your own!

Many cities are having big community parties during the hours leading up to the eclipse. This is a great opportunity to set up a tent or booth and sell eclipse related products! Many attendees will want merchandise but there may be no one there selling anything.

If you feel like you’ve waited too long to offer any eclipse related products, try running an “Eclipse Special” where you offer a certain percentage off each purchase or mark down a few products.

For product and design inspiration you can visit Etsy or Pinterest to see what is trending.

Take advantage of this rare opportunity to both view and capitalize on the total eclipse!