Twelve Tips To Shop the Trade Shows

Trade shows—love 'em or hate 'em, they should be an important event in your life as a businessperson. You get to see new products, renew old friendships, learn about industry trends, and develop a network... more »

How Do You Get to the Heart of Great Customer Service?

Most people are familiar with the expression "laughing like a hyena." But at Hyena's Desert Grille—an upscale casual-dining establishment run by several hyenas from a neighborhood pack—things were no laughing matter. Business had been falling... more »

‘Tis the Season to be Hiring

It's only July, but it won't be too long before you decorate your store with holiday decorations in anticipation of a bustling fourth quarter. Each holiday season, retailers of all sizes—from major department stores to... more »

Baskets that Work

Gift retailers like you can benefit from creating and selling a wide assortment of gift baskets. Here are some ideas to get your creative juices flowing. more »

Profit from Play

Playing for Profits Need more ways to sell toys? Check out these tips: Consider incorporating a current shop fixture into your marketing. Kate Tanner, owner of Kidstop Specialty Toys and Books in Scottsdale, AZ, has... more »

When Opportunity Knocks

It was a really wet spring here in New England. One particularly miserable, wet day had caught me unprepared. I stopped by a local retailer and was relieved to find that she had stocked some... more »

How do you host a successful in-store event during the holidays?

How do you host a successful in-store event during the holidays? What are some event ideas that can draw traffic? You probably kick off the holiday retail season with a bang. Here are some ideas... more »

Baskets & Beyond

From Popsicle Sticks to Gift Baskets with Sue's Gift Box & Sweet ShoppeIn 1994, Susan Blake opened a store in Bay Head, NJ, that sold primarily cards and gifts. Soon, she started grouping items in... more »

Trending Up: Summer 2008

AuerhahnStainless steel oil and vinegar set has a matte finish. 51/2" width and 8" height. Designed with a hidden stopper to give precise pouring. 800.999.6347Auerhahn-Bestecke.de Lulu & Merie Inc.Stylized playing card sets come packaged in... more »

Main St. stays a step ahead of recession

Amesbury, MA - As the economy continues to sputter, retailers across the country are hunkering down for a long hot summer. The U.S. Census Bureau reported that in May, Americans spent $384 billion on everything... more »