Operations

Studio M to close its doors

After 35 years in business, outdoor décor and gift brand Studio M will cease operations in April 2024. In an email sent to customers, the company said the decision is the result of enduring financial hardships, further... more »

NRF says $743B in merchandise returned in 2023

Total returns for the industry amounted to $743 billion in merchandise in 2023, according to a report released by the National Retail Federation and Appriss Retail. As a percentage of sales, the total return rate... more »

Legal Corner: Loss prevention is worth a pound of proaction

Loss prevention is a monumental issue in the retail industry. It is one that can decrease the amount of revenue a retailer ultimately brings to the bottom line. Additionally, it can cause headaches of many... more »

Bring on the Dragons: An overview of management integration

You may not realize it, but the story of your business — of any small business — is an epic one. It is a story about taking magnificent risks for elusive rewards, about shouldering burdens,... more »

What is your AIQ?

Artificial intelligence, also known as AI, seems like it was dropped on us like an explosion without warning. It literally is being discussed in its possible applications in every facet of our lives and in... more »

10 tips to maximize your email marketing

Email marketing is a tool specialty shop retailers have to engage with their customers, build brand loyalty and drive sales. One key ingredient for successful email marketing campaigns is a solid database of customer email... more »

How the Copyright Claims Board can help retailers in disputes

It is no secret that the creation of original, innovative designs and products is at the heart of the gift industry. Maybe that is why there are so many knock-offs and copycats. There has always... more »

The power of Pinterest: A retailer’s guide to success (Part 1)

Since its launch in 2010, Pinterest has quickly become one of the top social media platforms — boasting 300 billion pins and over 400 million monthly active users. It’s one of the best ways to... more »

Going mobile: Considerations for incorporating a food truck at your retail event

You have a store full of customers — how can you get them to stay longer? Feed them of course. Two garden centers share the different roads they followed to having food trucks on their property and... more »

E-commerce options for retailers

Retailers care about boosting sales, pricing their items right and understanding what their customers want. That’s why e-commerce platforms are relentlessly rolling out new tools for merchants to help them be a success. After all,... more »