How to turn old stock into promotions
Jul 8, 2025
Unlocking Value from Unsold Inventory
Every reseller, whether running an online store or managing a brick-and-mortar shop, encounters old stock that just isn’t moving. Instead of letting these items collect dust or become obsolete, you can turn them into a powerful promotional tool to boost sales, attract new customers, and clear valuable shelf space. Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to help you get started—even if you’re new to inventory management or promotions.
Step 1: Audit Your Inventory
The first step is knowing exactly what you have. Create a list of slow-moving or unsold items. Use a central inventory system—such as Gavelbase—to track stock levels and locations. This helps you identify promotional candidates and prevents overselling if you list across multiple sites.
Tip: Record SKU, item name, quantity, and original cost for each product.
Set a threshold for what counts as "old stock"—for example, items unsold after 90 days.
Step 2: Decide on Your Promotion Type
There are several effective ways to promote old stock. Choose one (or a mix) that fits your business model and appeals to your customers. Some common methods include:
Discounts: Mark down prices (e.g., 20-50% off).
Bundling: Offer a bundle deal (e.g., buy one, get one free or combine slow movers with bestsellers).
Freebies: Add old stock as a free gift with purchase.
Clearance Sales: Create a dedicated "clearance" section on your online store or a special event in-store.
Step 3: Sync Inventory and Listings Across Platforms
If you sell on multiple sites (eBay, Etsy, Shopify, etc.), it’s crucial to keep inventory and listings up to date. A central system like Gavelbase can synchronize your listings and inventory levels automatically. This prevents overselling, reduces manual errors, and ensures you never disappoint a customer by selling something you no longer have.
Update product descriptions to highlight the promotion (e.g., "Limited time: 30% off!").
Use eye-catching photos and banners to draw attention to promotional items.
Step 4: Assign Basic Team Roles
Even in a small business, it helps to assign clear roles:
Inventory Manager: Tracks what’s left and updates the system.
Listings Coordinator: Edits product listings and manages promotional banners.
Sales Tracker: Monitors sales, fees, and calculates profitability of promotions.
Shipping/Customer Service: Handles order fulfillment and communicates with customers about the promotion.
In many cases, one person may wear multiple hats. The key is to define responsibilities so nothing slips through the cracks.
Step 5: Track Sales and Fees
Promotions can boost sales volume, but it’s important to track whether they’re profitable. Use your inventory system or a simple spreadsheet to record:
Units sold during the promotion
Discounts given
Sales platform fees (e.g., eBay, Etsy, payment processors)
Shipping costs
Analyze the results once the promotion ends. Did you move old stock? Did you break even or make a profit? This helps you refine future promotions.
Step 6: Handle Shipping or Pickup Cleanly
Clear communication and efficient fulfillment are key to a successful promotion:
For shipping, use a system that prints labels and updates tracking automatically (many central inventory tools offer this).
For local pickup, set clear instructions and pickup times. Confirm with buyers to avoid missed connections.
Package items securely—even if they’re discounted, your reputation depends on a good customer experience.
Step 7: Promote Your Promotion!
Let people know about your deals:
Send an email to your customer list announcing the sale.
Post on your social media channels with eye-catching images.
Use in-store signage for brick-and-mortar businesses.
Consider collaborating with influencers or local partners to spread the word.
Step 8: Review and Repeat
After the promotion, review what worked and what didn’t. Adjust your approach for next time: try different types of promotions, tweak your messaging, or change how you bundle old stock.
Tools and Resources
Gavelbase: For central inventory, multi-site sync, basic team management, and reporting.
Shopify Inventory Management: For Shopify sellers.
Etsy Inventory Tools: For Etsy shops.
Zoho Inventory: For broader inventory needs.
Final Thoughts
Turning old stock into promotions doesn’t require a massive overhaul—just a systematic approach. Start small, use the right tools, and involve your team. You’ll free up cash, delight customers, and keep your business moving forward.