The Red Rooster By Debbie Eisele

With so many retailers facing similar challenges right now, we encourage you to “Share Your Story” so that retailers in the industry can connect with one another and share experiences and tips with one another.

The Red Rooster, a brick-and-mortar store located in historic downtown Boerne, Texas, offers home décor and “one-of-a-kind antiques,” according to Jennifer Finch, co-owner. This retailer has seen online sales increase during the pandemic and has experienced an overall positive response from its customers about its new procedures and policies in wake of COVID-19. Finch provided insight into how the 2020 retail climate has impacted the store. 

Since the pandemic closures and re-openings, how have you adjusted your business model?

Before the pandemic we did some social media but we really stepped it up during lock down and even after. During shut-down we were able to do curbside pick up and our customers really stepped up. 

During the closure we had to reinvent how we sold our merchandise to get it out to the customers and to the public, and we did more social media and selling through that way. Before the pandemic we were able to get our merchandise in, but now we are having issues even receiving our merchandise.

What special services did you implement during the pandemic that you plan to continue moving forward?

When the pandemic started — and we were able to open back up — we allowed Mondays and Tuesdays for customers that wanted to make an appointment to come in and shop privately. At this time we are still allowing our customers to make an appointment, if need be, on Mondays and Tuesdays to come in and shop in comfort without any other customers.

Please describe how you are communicating with your customers about any new services, policies, procedures or offering.

We do a lot of social media including Facebook and Instagram

What have been the positives of re-opening your store?

Customers have been very excited to be able to come in and shop in person. They are excited about all the new merchandise that we have gotten in.

What have been some of the challenges of re-opening?

Some of the challenges have been that we have implemented hand sanitation before you enter the shop and we have a state-mandated mask requirement. That has been the biggest issue — people not wanting to wear their masks.

What is the most requested item in your inventory right now?

Right now we have all of our fall merchandise out so our most requested item would have to be all of our fall (items). We carry a wide variety of fall merchandise including pumpkins, candles and florals. If I had to pick just one thing I would have to say it’s our fall-scented candles from Park Hill Collection. The number one seller is Frost on the Pumpkin.

What helpful tips would you like to share with other retailers during these unprecedented times?

Keep grinding …. we have days where we have 5 people in, and days where 100+ come through. We have to keep our heads up and a positive attitude. 

Debbie Eisele

Debbie Eisele is the former managing editor for Gift Shop Plus, Stationery Trends and a variety of special issue publications, including: The Guide, Holiday Shop, Celebrations & Occasions and Waterfront Living.