Independent merchants find ways to stay afloat in tough economic times
New York — At Jeff Cassels’ jewelry store, falling real-estate values and rising gold prices are more than news headlines — they are contributors to an uncertain holiday season. At Joanie McDonald’s clothing store, however, a weakening dollar is good for sales.
This season finds independent retailers across the country dealing with a new set of economic challenges even as they still contend with growing competition from big-box retailers such as Wal-Mart Stores Inc. and Borders Inc. That means merchants are being pressed more than ever to capitalize on what sets them apart from the rest of the retail universe: merchandise that’s unique and well-suited to a store’s clientele, and customer service that’s beyond the ordinary.
Customers of Kid Country Toys, a specialty toy store with two shops in Charleston, W.Va., can dispense with the screwdrivers and bandages usually needed to put tricycles and other toys together. Owner Jerry Strick said his staff will assemble purchases free. Toys can be gift wrapped as well.
