News

Friends find common business ground

Elgin -- Three women, pals for years, never dreamed that their paths would cross in the business world.A few things needed to fall in place before each would become separate entrepreneurs in downtown Elgin. A... more »

Retailers bump up lures to shoppers

With 10 days left until Christmas, many people still haven't finished their shopping. And many say they're not impressed with what they're finding in stores.But they'll eventually have to buy something, experts say, and retailers... more »

Small Shops See Smallness as Their Big Selling Point

Predictions of a weak holiday shopping season have led the big department stores to slash prices and stretch their advertising budgets. But most small retailers, which cannot afford either the price cuts or the expensive... more »

Small Talk: Independent shops setting themselves apart

Kids Country Toys owner Jerry Strick, who has been in business 35 years, uses services that super chains such as Wal-Mart and Toys "R" Us don't provide - such as assembling toys for free -... more »

California Gift Show Launches Eco-Earth Conscious Options

White Plains, NY - In response to market demand, the California Gift Show will launch ECO - Earth Conscious Optionstm, as a category for identifying eco-friendly and fair trade product, January 18-21, 2008, at the... more »

Mud Pie Debuts Gift Collection for Graduates

Tucker, Ga. - Just as "Pomp and Circumstance" is the graduation song, The Graduate is the gift collection for 2008 grads. Mud Pie, an award-winning international gift company, offers a first-of-its-kind gift collection featuring Class... more »

Gently Spoken introduces SproutUps! Greeting Cards

Anoka, Minn. - Gently Spoken, a leading publishing company dedicated to providing a source of encouragement and inspiration, introduces SproutUps!, a new line of art greeting cards with a sturdy easel back for beautiful display.... more »

U.S. luxury chain stores expect bleak holiday sales

Tiffany, Nordstrom and Coach may see December sales growth slow in what the National Retail Federation is predicting will be the worst U.S. holiday shopping season since 2002.Retailers that cater to America's richest consumers are... more »

Brave New World: Environmental Leadership Series Offers Insight to Green Movement During January Las Vegas Market

Las Vegas - World Market Center is proud to introduce a special presentation at the January Las Vegas Market that highlights education, trends and international influences in the sustainable home furnishings movement. The week-long series,... more »

Spagnolos open coffee shop/gift shop in Glenwood Springs

Glenwood Springs - The saddest thing was seeing smoke billowing out of the front door and a giant, soaking-wet teddy bear sitting out front."It was horrible. It was a nightmare," said Becky Spagnolo.It's been a... more »