This post was originally published on On Deck
If you’ve ever been to a beach town in July or a ski resort in January, then you’ve experienced the power of a seasonal business. These businesses capitalize on predictable changes in customer demand throughout the year. Whether it’s the influx of holiday shoppers in December or the lawn care boom in April, seasonal businesses offer unique opportunities — and challenges — for entrepreneurs.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through what seasonal businesses are, explore profitable seasonal business ideas, examine the pros and cons, and share expert tips on managing them full-time, including what to do during the off-season. Let’s dive in!
What is a seasonal business?
A seasonal business is one that experiences the bulk of its activity during specific times of the year. These businesses align their products or services with the natural rhythms of the calendar, such as holidays, weather changes or school schedules.
For example, a snow plowing service operates primarily during the winter months, while an ice cream stand might thrive in the summer. While some seasonal businesses shut down during the off-season, others pivot to alternative offerings or use that time for planning and maintenance.
Businesses that experience seasonality changes aren’t necessarily the
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