News

Local Shops, Restaurants Continue To Thrive On Plaza

The Country Club Plaza enjoys mythic status in Kansas City. Residents take great pride in it, whether they shop there or not.And like a lot of mythic subjects, a lot of myths swirl around it.... more »

Retail Business Conditions At 3-Year High

Business conditions in the retail sector in the first quarter of 2011 improved for the first time since 2007, the results of the Bureau for Economic Research (BER) Retail Survey released on Thursday show."This is... more »

Irish Specialty Shop Has Deep Roots in Oak Lawn

In just a few days, Americans will join the international community in celebrating one of the world's most public festivals, St. Patrick's Day. On March 17, people who are not Irish pretend they are while... more »

State Park Officials Focus On Idaho Retail Goods

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — The Department of Parks and Recreation is trying to find more ways for visitors to take home a piece of Idaho at park gift shops filled with sweets, soaps and other... more »

Time Is Right For A Shop Local Campaign

The recent spike in fuel prices is increasing the pressure on an already moribund local economy - but could there be a silver lining in high prices at the pump for merchants in smaller communities?The... more »

On the Spectrum: Shop Local And Fair Trade Are Compatible

Some people in my hometown of Calistoga seek to have it officially certified as a "fair trade" town. With so much growing interest in sustainable communities that produce and "shop local" first, I view "fair... more »

No Ifs, Ands or Buts: 10 Things Small Businesses Must Do To Succeed With Their Free Apps

Many small businesses have recently learned about the world of Web apps (applications) and are beginning to incorporate apps into their marketing efforts. However, what you may not know is that building a great app... more »

Sweet Basil Store Offers Bulk Baking Items And Gourmet Gift Ideas

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa - Jimmies, sprinkles or decorettes ... whatever you call them, you can now have plenty on hand for your favorite cookies, cupcakes or ice cream treats. Natalie Brown, 31, owner of Scratch... more »

Downtown Hickory Welcomes New Businesses

Hickory--When Julia Rush opened a fine crafts store on Union Square three decades ago, the downtown retail landscape looked a lot different than it does today."There were still department stores like Spainhour's and men's and... more »

St. Patrick’s Day Gifts For The Connoiseur: Burdick’s Chocolate And Camacho Cigars Impress

March comes in like a Lion and sees St. Patrick's Day arrive on March 17, as Spring is peeping around the corner. This holiday that honors a man who drove the Druids to drink and... more »