A number of retailers have commented on the GIFT SHOP Forum that they are a bit concerned about their sales this holiday season. While the focus of the average holiday shopper this year may be value and price, the average household is still slated to spend $525.

Here are five strategies to ensure you get your piece of the pie:

1. Sell unique, quality products: Customers will be on the lookout for wonderful holiday gifts that can't be found elsewhere. Also, if you're their only source for the product, you're guaranteed to make the sale.

2. Personalization: Consumers love to give products that are personalized—it gives them a way to gift an item that is truly unique and recipients love it. There are so many product options available, and with many of them you only need to carry one sample in your store (helps you control inventory expenditures). To learn more about the benefits of selling personalized products, and for a vendor resource list, check out the GIFT SHOP article Personal Profits.

3. Customization: Offering pre-made gift baskets, or a program to help your clients create their own gift baskets, is a fantastic way to allow customers to customize the perfect gift.

4. Customer service: Promote your exceptional customer service. For example, create a sign if you offer complimentary gift wrap during the holiday season, an extended return policy, a customer wish list program or other services that make shopping your store a pleasure.

5. Price: Offer a range of great products with price points under $30. Shoppers will be seeking a good value and price.