Is “Free” Good or Bad?



During the holidays, the pressure is on small business owners to make sales. Many entrepreneurs are tempted to offer deep discounts or free items.  But SBDC and CITD Small Business Advisor recently came across an article that explains why doing so may harm your long-term sales potential. On Business Week, Steve McKee says, “There’s nothing wrong with offering the occasional sample freebie as long as you don’t undermine your brand’s value.” Read more…

Cut Energy Costs and Finance Your Energy Efficiency Upgrades at 0%

On-Bill Financing (OBF) is a program being offered by a growing number of utilities in an effort to get small businesses to become more energy efficient. In San Diego, SDG&E’s OBF program covers 100% of the energy efficiency equipment and installation costs (after rebates and incentives) through an unsecured loan to the customer at 0% interest. The customer repays the loan through their regular utility bill. In many cases, the monthly loan payment is completely offset by the energy savings. Once the loan is repaid, the business keeps the monthly savings, helping their bottom line.

FREE Recycling Kits for Small Businesses

SBDC and CITD Small Business Advisor Gabriel Reyes brought this small business article to our attention.  According to the San Diego Union-Tribune, local small businesses can get free “mail-back” recycling kits to help them legally recycle old fluorescent lamps, thanks to the Department of Environmental Health and a federal stimulus grant.

“The County strives to be business friendly and we want to make it easy for businesses to recycle,” said Supervisor Greg Cox. “This is also a good way to people to properly dispose of fluorescent lights and other electronic waste.” Get the details…

No More IRS Income Tax Packages through the Mail

The IRS announced that individual and business taxpayers will no longer receive paper income tax packages in the mail from the IRS. These tax packages contained the forms, schedules and instructions for filing a paper income tax return.  The IRS is taking this step because of the continued growth in electronic filing and the availability of free options to taxpayers, as well as to help reduce costs.

Is Parking Free at Your Business?

Interesting debate going on at the blog from local business The Linkery. They write:

When you go to the store, for example, the business gives it up for free and everybody pays for it in more expensive goods whether they drive to the store or not. Read more…