THE BEST FOR BABY GET THE PARTY STARTED!
TEXTILE TRENDS
Elegant
The trend toward neutral, highly textural products for the home endures into spring and summer
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DEPARTMENTS
20 Fashion First
Apparel and jewellery remain key categories for independent retailers
22 Take Note
Our team’s favourite new greeting cards and stationery accessories
24 Calm Oasis
Turn your personal care department into a soothing oasis
FEATURES
67 Get the Party Started!
A handpicked selection from our editors of entertaining items perfect for spring and summer
77 The Best for Baby
The newest and hottest toys and gifts for your baby and children’s department
inStyle
FEATURE
52 Serene Surroundings
The trend toward neutral, highly textural products for the home endures into spring and summer
inSight
DEPARTMENTS
18 Hello!
Can’t Afford to Fail
36 Shop Profile
This Qualicum Beach, B.C., boutique serves its town’s artist community by sourcing and stocking only artisanal products sourced from within 150 kilometres
48 Mailbox
Readers share their thoughts on the industry, their businesses and the magazine!
FEATURE
62 Textile Trends
A deep dive into global textile movements impacting home décor trends now and in the future
inForm
DEPARTMENTS
27 News & Notes
New lines, launches, industry goings-on and market news
82 Retail Visions
Merchandising expert Nickeisha Lewis discusses the importance of engaging your customers through storytelling
FEATURES
59 Numbers First
Put your business under a financial microscope to learn where you are losing and where you can make money.
By
Natalie Hammer Noblitt
73 Make a Splash
A step-by-step guide to attracting new customers by utilizing Google ads.
By Natalie Hammer Noblitt
80 Are you Ready to Scale
Use these 10 metrics to discover whether or not you’re ready to take your business to the next level
By Natalie Hammer Noblitt
CREATE A StylishTABLE WITH MAXWELL & WILLIAMS
Elevate your dinnerware with the timeless elegance of Maxwell & Williams. Select from our extensive range, to create unique and stylish tables!
Onni’s organic shapes and earthy feel is a modern take on our best selling white ware.
One of a kind Menara boards add texture and character to your table.
Add a dash of romance with pieces from our Enchantment collection, featuring original floral designs. Perfect for entertaining and gifting.
Choose pieces from our striking Caviar collection for a contemporary alternative to traditional white table settings.
Cherry Blossoms
Can’t Afford to Fail
Our love for what we do is what sustains us through the ups and downs of small business ownership. That passion and a desire to live in a world where we are surrounded by the creative talents of many rather than boring goods from behemoths is what motivates me to create a publication that honours and serves boutique retailers and assists them in offering the best products and services they can to their customers and communities.
While the economy is difficult right now, to say the least, I have tremendous faith in our ability to bounce back and move forward. But let’s face facts. It’s tough mentally and very lonely running a business. Add in all the ups and downs and it’s downright exhausting
As I write this we are in the midst of a Canada Post strike, another blow to small businesses during a time they can least afford it. Just when we thought things couldn’t get worse the government allows this to happen. It truly seems that our governments are completely ignorant to our needs and plights, something we have brutally witnessed since Covid. All we hear is empty talk, lip service paid to how important small businesses are to the economy, which isn’t backed by any real policy support.
While governments speak about their desire to “build community” and unite Canadians, the actions they take are serving to disseminate communities across the country and the dreams of Canadians who have worked hard to build businesses and pay their taxes without the benefit of government kickbacks, bailouts or handouts such as those given to large corporations who “can’t afford to fail”. Well small businesses can’t afford to fail either and our governments needs to wake up to that reality.
In our last issue we covered the devastating impact Covid continues to have on our industry as it forced dozens and dozens of stores to close. I encourage you to share this article, Shuttering & Shattering, with your local papers and add your own voice to the issue. We have posted the article as a pdf on the home page of our website (www.instoremagazine.ca) which you can download and send to your local paper. Reporters will be keen to report on this issue and your efforts will help to educate the broader public on the pressures we’re facing. Hopefully a combined effort will help us awaken the government to the realities of small business owners in a political climate that pays heed to corporate lobbyists.
It’s an increasingly frustrating environment we are being forced to conduct business in; where we feel completely unsupported by the leaders we’ve elected to represent us, which is why I continue to use InStore as a vehicle to build community so we don’t feel alone or unheard. Diane Fotheringham was one of the retailers who was forced to close her doors. She ran Titus & Louse at Home in Toronto, Ont., for over 28 years and hers was one of the stories we featured in Shuttering & Shattering. While she is obviously saddened by the closing of her store, she took the time to let our team know that, “Often one feels that they are out there flying around on their own but your reviews and assessment made one feel very much part of a community.”
Our goal at InStore - to make our community members feel safe and heard. Here’s to a better 2025! As always we will be right here by your side to help you through the good times and the bad.
Erica Kirkland
Editor & Publisher
Erica Kirkland ekirkland@instoremagazine.ca
Design & Layout Gerry Wiebe
Advertising & Production Coordinator Tina Nicholl tina@instoremagazine.ca
Advertising Inquiries ekirkland@instoremagazine.ca 905-690-0492
Mailing Address: 103 Niska Drive Waterdown, ON L8B 0M8
Contributors
Castlerock Studios, Will Fournier, Leslie Groves, Jessica Harlan, Nickeisha Lewis, Natalie Noblitt
InStore Magazine™ was founded independently in 2014 by Erica Kirkland. The magazine is published four times a year and sent to 12,000 independent retailers in Canada selling giftware, home décor, fashion accessories and lifestyle items.
© 2025 InStore Magazine™. The contents of this publication are the property of InStore Magazine Inc. Reproduction or use of the contents in whole or in part, for any reason, is strictly prohibited without the written consent of the copyright owner. The publisher is not responsible for product claims made by the companies mentioned herein.
Printed in Winnipeg, Man. Publication mail #40841587. Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: InStore Magazine™, 103 Niska Drive, Waterdown ON L8B 0M8. Email: editorial@instoremagazine.ca
Fashion First
Apparel and jewellery remain key categories for independent retailers
Heart earrings made from Canadian pennies, $55 retail, Lost Things Artisan Jewelry, lovelostthings@gmail.com
Quilted puffy belt bag from Jen & Co., $53 retail, Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca
Made in Canada Seafoam bar earrings, $44 retail, Aflame Creations Jewelry, www.aflamecreations.ca
Miracle Beach Mussel Shell Pendant, $185 retail, Morning Moon Natural Jewelry by Kate Shepard, www.lovemorningmoon.com
Handmade sparkling duet earrings, $95 retail, Flourish & Flame Jewelry, www.flourishandflame.com
Kara tank top in caramel made in Canada, $75 retail, Tangente Clothing, www.tangenteclothing.com
Gratitude journal from Compendium, $25 retail, Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca
Bees gratitude greeting card, $8.50 retail, Maylay Co., www.maylayco.com
Our team’s favourite new greeting cards and stationery accessories
Greeting card from Compendium Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca
Little Hearts gratitude greeting card $8.50 retail, Maylay Co., www.maylayco.com
Butterfly gift card envelopes $10 retail, Maylay Co., www.maylayco.com
Over the Misty Mountains art print, from $25 retail for eight-inch by 10-inch, Elena Markelova Arts, www.elenamarkelova.com
Calm Oasis
Saturday glass jar candle, $32 retail, Brightfield, www.brightfield.ca
Home fragrance and travel candle, $24 retail and $18 retail respectively, Lilly & Grace, www.lillyandgrace.ca
Vegan Relax salt soak made in Canada, $21.99 retail, Epic Blend, www.epicblend.com
Turn your personal care department into a soothing oasis
Large Bergamot & Soft Rose diffuser set from Marmalade, $50 retail, Edenborough, 800-265-6398, www.edenborough.com
Sea salt soap made in Canada, $12 retail, Raw Island Botanicals, www.rawislandbotanicals.com
Skinny Dip reed diffuser, $44 retail, Brightfield, www.brightfield.ca
Grapefruit & Bergamot soap, $9.50 retail, Soaps by Pogbanu Soap, www.pogbanusoaps.com
Epsom salts, $15 retail, Peace, Love & Sarcasm, peacelovesarcasm.com
News & Notes Inside Track
IN THE NEWS
Ganz Celebrates 75 Years
Established in Toronto by Samuel Ganz and sons Jack and Sam in 1950, shortly after WWII, Ganz got its start making dolls based on a prototype Samuel had seen on one of his visits to New York City. Completely inexperienced when it came to business and without a company name, Sam and Jack let the registrar decide when he asked them, “What is your last name.” Hence, the name Ganz Brothers. After making a few contacts, Ganz was in business. The family built their own cutting table and Samuel sourced cheap fabric remnants from his New York contacts. Before long, they were producing toys, but without a car, Sam was forced to make his deliveries on Toronto streetcars – his arms laden with merchandise.
THE 1950S: THE BEGINNING
By 1954 the company shifted from buying remnants to buying baled goods by the yard. Jack and Sam piled the fabric high and, using a cutting machine, significantly increased their output. They told their ailing father nothing of the changes. By the next year, profits had tripled and the brothers were becoming respected in the business community.
THE 1960S: SLOW GROWTH
During the 1960s, the factory consisted of a cutting department of five people and up to 200 sewers with six sewing lines. From there the toys went to the finishing and packing process before they went to the warehouse. In total, there were between 300 and 350 employees at the company during this time period.
THE 1970S: INCREASED EFFICIENCY
By the 1970s, the company was looking for the most costeffective ways to produce toys while maintaining superior quality. Jack began travelling overseas where he could purchase “half toys” or “skins” which were far less expensive than the finished product. Ganz was now able to lower production costs and avoid expensive freight costs.
THE 1980S: EXPANSION INTO GIFTWARE
When the 1980s rolled around, Ganz had developed a reputation for impeccable safety standards as well as high-quality goods. It was in 1983 that Howard Ganz, the current CEO, joined the company, marking the third generation of the family to be officially
continued on page 28
News & Notes Inside Track
IN THE NEWS
continued from page 27
involved in its operation. Howard had a vision for the company. He wanted to take Ganz places it had never been. He realised the plush market was changing – that people were prepared to spend a lot more for higher-quality items. At the same time, China was becoming adapt at manufacturing stuffed animals at lower costs and it was becoming easier for Ganz’s department store customers including, Woolco and Kmart to bypass Canadian manufacturers.
Meanwhile the North American market was also changing. The toy industry was becoming more and more dependent on heavily advertised products. These toys epitomized the new risk/reward factor which redefined the industry. Basic toys such as teddy bears were not very risky, but accordingly, the profits margins were moderate. More and more retailers were buying products overseas directly, so Ganz began to shift its focus from retail giants interested in mass orders and low prices to smaller stores interested in high quality and service.
Howard Ganz attended his first gift show, the New York Gift Show, in 1988. Americans loved the line. In fact, it was so well received that Howard had sales reps from across the United States approaching him. Howard recognized the opportunity to very quickly establish a sales force in the U.S. and to move into the American market.
“There were two reasons to move the company into the American market,” Howard recalls. “The first one was simply that the Canadian gift market was too small. Secondly and more importantly we needed to have a bigger distribution to justify the market research and product development costs required to create a first-class line of gift products to go along with the plush.”
THE PRESENT
Today, Ganz manufactures giftware, home décor, fashion
Leadership Changes at Candym
Candym, one of Canada’s leading gift and home décor suppliers, recently announced changes to its executive leadership team. Having spent over 25 years leading Candym Enterprises, Laurie Peet will be stepping down from his role as COO to begin his retirement. Laurie’s experience in the wholesale and retail industry have been invaluable to the growth of the Candym brand and his daily involvement will be missed.
As part of this transition, Candym has appointed Kathryn Hunter to the role of chief commercial officer. www.candym.com
accessories, baby gifts and décor, plush, garden decor, holiday and finishing touches for the home. CBK Home, Midwest Gift, Simply Noelle and Crystal Expressions are some of the lines that make up the company’s extensive family of products. The company currently services approximately 20,000 retail customers across North America. Products are developed in-house by dedicated product developers and sourced from around the world and then shipped to Toronto for North American distribution. “In some ways, I feel like we’re an old company, but in other ways, I feel like we are just being born,” says Howard. “The best is yet to come.” www.ganz.com
Correction!
In the Fall 2024 issue of InStore, the product pictured right was incorrectly pictured as a personal care product in our feature on home décor. The image here of a framed print of terracotta leaves should have been in its place. The print is from Nostalgia Import and retails for $22. www.nostalgia-import.com
Laurie Peet
Kathryn Hunter
News & Notes Inside Track
IN THE NEWS
Store Owner
Shares Successful Seasonal Strategy
Deanna Nowochin, the owner of Nowco Home Hardware in Lacombe, Alta., created a new a new retail space in March. Named The Loft, it’s on the mezzanine of the historic building in which the hardware store is located.
This year she decided to shut the space down to customer traffic from November 10 to 15 to transform the space for Christmas. “This tactic was extremely successful for us,” she shares. “In the first five days of being open for the Christmas season our sales were double what they were from Nov 1 to 10. We are tracking to double our monthly sales average for the month of December. Having this beautifully done-up space has created a destination where customers want to come and spend their time and money.”
News & Notes
Cipriani Bellini
Samora’s Fine Foods & Gifts is launching Cipriani Bellini Zero to the market. The alcohol-free beverage recreates the essence of this iconic cocktail, boasting a delicate, peachy hue, often described as a soft blush. Its aromatic profile is dominated by the sweet, ripe scent of white peaches. Samora’s has been offering Cipriani food to Canadians since 2001. samoras.com
Coconut Kiss
Escape to a tropical paradise with Barefoot Venus’s Coconut Kiss collection. With a tropical, nutty and sweet smell, the products surround you with the scent of an island breeze. The collection includes lip balm, travel moisturizers, a sugar scrub, argan body oil, body cream, instant hand repair, bath soak, bubble bath, massage and bath oil, and perfume. www.barefootvenus.com
Up Your Soap Game
Hand made sustainably in London, Ont., from recycled materials, the Soap Envelope from Cycle Air allows bar soap to last longer and lather more luxuriously with the added benefit of a gentle exfoliation. The product is built to last – machine washable and dryer safe. www.cycleairfilters.com
News & Notes
IN THE NEWS
the goods
Two New Brands From Candym
Candym recently added two significant brands to its repertoire: Town Pride and Studio M.
Founded in 2021, Town Pride creates one-of-kind custom product, offering a diverse collection of quality knits. Their design team sources products from female and family-owned makers in the United States. Unlike many custom garments made inexpensively overseas, Town Pride knits are durable and high quality. The company stands behind its craftsmanship and is transparent about fair labour practices while offering custom pieces in small runs with no set-up fees.
Founded over 30 years ago, Studio M (recently acquired by Demdaco) is a well-known brand in the home and garden space in the United States, known for pairing novel designs with custom artwork to create remarkable outdoor products. Best-selling collections include “Matmates,” an interchangeable mat system for inside and outdoor use. www.canfloyd.com
Sweet Slippers
Every season Snoozies launches adorable new additions to its line of slippers. New for spring and summer are a classic ballerina slipper with a bow and split sole for comfort. Available in four prints: mini black and white dots, pastel gingham, leopard print and blue daisy. New to the Skinnies collection of lightweight, foldable slippers are seven new prints. www.snooziescanada.ca
ALCOVE LIVING
Curating Handcrafted Goods
By Jessica Harlan
Snuggled within the artist’s community of Qualicum Beach, it’s no surprise that artisan goods are the focal point of Alcove Living. The boutique is eight years old, and the current owner, Meghan Robertson, took it over about a year ago when she decided to step back from her work as a psychologist. Robertson is an artist herself and still sells some of her woodburning pieces in the shop. Since taking the reins, she’s added around 50 new artists, as well as a shop dog named Millie, who, as Robertson says, “is seven pounds of hilariousness.”
This Qualicum Beach, B.C., boutique serves it’s town’s artist community by sourcing and stocking only artisanal products sourced from within 150 kilometres
What makes your store unique?
Everything in our store has been handcrafted by an artist within 150 kilometres. There’s nothing made in China, it’s all handmade by a human. We have an over-arching goal that there is something for everyone and every occasion, and we keep that in mind when we’re bringing in different artists. For instance, we have 10 to 12 pottery artists right now, but they’re all different stylistically. Everything complements each other and nothing is directly competitive.
JUST THE STATS
Store: Alcove Livinge
Location: Qualicum Beach, B.C.
Square Footage: 450
Employees: Five
Website: alcoveliving.ca
How would you describe your store and its atmosphere?
The feedback we get is that our shop is a lovely place to be, and people can feel the love that’s gone into the pieces, and how passionate our staff is about our artisans. We’ve been asked to bottle the smell of our shop! It’s because everything is all natural and organic, there’s nothing artificial. In terms of décor, we keep everything warm and natural.
What is your background and why did you get into retail?
I’ve always been creative; I make art and have a tea business. I was looking to step away from my career in counseling to find something that would be more compatible with my family. I already knew the store because my art has been in it. When the previous owner was retiring, I thought, this is something I could do while balancing my family and my homestead.
To what do you attribute your success?
I think the key is the value structure - that we only bring in things from local artists and we’re very intentional with the items we sell. As an artist, I have an appreciation for both sides of the table and having that helps with the vision. My staff is amazing, and they’re a huge component of the heart and soul of the operation.
How do you promote your store and what are your most successful promotions or marketing mediums?
I’m pretty active with social media. I’ll tag our artists and then they’ll share our posts, so there is cross-advertising that way. People will come in for a specific thing that they saw on a reel. I find that with social media, it’s quality over quantity. We have a small, but active and engaged following. And the benefit of a small town is word of mouth. The whole of Vancouver Island is a small town and people say this is their favourite store.
What has been your most successful recent event?
We put the most intention into our Moonlight Madness Event, which is always on a Thursday in December. It’s a community-wide event, and we always have a discount on food items and giveaways that you can enter to win with a purchase. We keep it fairly simple because the store will get crowded.
At the moment, what are your biggest struggles or pain points?
If there’s a problem, I’m fairly confident in my ability to sort it out.
But I struggle with the things that are outside of my personal control. With the current economic conditions, people have less financial freedom where their unnecessary spending will go. People are still doing their gift purchasing here but they’re spending a lot less, given the cost of food, gas, mortgages, and all of those necessities. Also, small shop retailers are getting killed by Temu and Amazon. I sell beadwork done by indigenous artists. You’re investing $100 for a pair of indigenous-made earrings because that’s what they cost. But then you can get it on Temu for 35 cents! There are
so many horrifically cheap options that are unethically created.
Looking back, what is the biggest lesson you have learned?
To be gentle with myself. Things don’t always work, but you still have to try. Some things I’ve brought in haven’t done as well as I wanted them to, and I’ll think, “yikes, that cost me money!” But if you don’t take any risks, you’re not going to grow as a business. Playing it safe limits your full potential.
Finally, how do you stay inspired?
I think it’s important to find your niche and find your own ways to be as original as possible, because there’s so much overlap. I’m most successful when I play to my own strengths and abilities and don’t get caught up in competition. We’re all going to get ahead better if we are working together and prioritizing community over competition.
WEBSITE: landofdaughters.com EMAIL: info@landofdaughters.com @ landofdaughters
TELL US WHAT YOU THINK!
Thank you to everyone who took the time to write to us. If you have something you’d like to share, email owner and editor Erica Kirkland at ekirkland@instoremagazine.ca.
Congrats on 10 Years
The Fall 2024 issue was a beautiful issue! Congrats on 10 years! That is something to be very proud of. I know how much stores appreciate all your support. We also appreciate you!
Lisa Tanco DirectorofMarketing&Merchandising DesignHomeGift&Paper
Congratulations Erica on 10 fabulous years! Thank you for all you do to serve the needs of independent store owners. Your are an incredible leader in the publishing industry and truly a pivoteur extraordinaire. Wishing you many more years of success.
Diane Petryna TakeAHike+Take2Boutique ThunderBay,Ont.
Showing the Love
Absolutely love this magazine and get lots of value from it! Thank you so much.
Julie Johnson Teaberry’sFineTeas Kelowna,B.C.
We love browsing InStore for inspiration for our shop!
Shirely Whiteway-Matheson LilyPondVintageFurniture&Home Decor Lantz,N.S.
Thank you for this great tool. I am new to retail in a small hospital gift shop. Even though my background is in the design field, I get so many ideas, suggestions and helpful info from your magazine. It is very inspirational and always gives me a boost. I look forward to each issue.
Nancy SouthMuskokaMemorialHospital AuxiliaryGiftShop Bracebridge,Ont.
Finger on the Pulse
I wish to thank you for all that you do and have done for me throughout my 28 years in my little shop. You featured my store some years ago and I was thrilled then, and then you included my reflections in your article on the state of retail these days and store closures. I always was so excited to get your lovely magazine in the post! I would set aside a quiet time and read it cover to cover to see if I had my thumb on the pulse, to discover new trends and products, and get excited about heading to the shows to shop. Often one feels that they are out there flying around on their own but your reviews and assessment made one feel very much part of a community.
Diane Fotheringham Titus&LouiseAtHome Toronto,Ont.
Congrats on 10 Years
The Fall 2024 issue was a beautiful issue! Congrats on 10 years! That is something to be very proud of. I know how much stores appreciate all your support. We also appreciate you!
Turning Over a New Leaf
Styling by Leslie Groves
Photography by Gillian Gillespie
Serene Surro
The trend toward neutral, highly textural products for the home endures into spring and summer as consumers continue to seek respite from our chaotic world in calming and peaceful homes.
undings
Styling by Leslie Groves
Photography by Will Fournier
Serene Surroundings
Decorative tray
$20 retail, Nostalgia Import Canada, 800-785-7855, www.nostalgia-import.com
Floral pick, $15 retail, Nostalgia Import Canada, 800-785-7855, www.nostalgia-import.com
Fluffy mushroom
$10 retail, Koppers Home, 866-604-0490, www.koppershome.com
Wooden chain décor
$49 retail, Koppers Home, 866-604-0490, www.koppershome.com
Basket, $32 retail, Nostalgia Import Canada, 800-785-7855, www.nostalgia-import.com
Woven planters
$50 retail for set, Koppers Home, 866-604-0490, www.koppershome.com
Candle in reusable wooden bowl, $25 retail, Nostalgia Import Canada, 800-785-7855, www.nostalgia-import.com
Serene Surroundings
Decorative wall art
$16 retail, Nostalgia Import Canada, 800-785-7855, www.nostalgia-import.com
Ribbed stone cement candle set, from $45 retail, Harman Imports, 800-363-7608, www.harmaninc.com
Gold leaf trays from Elevarre
$244 retail for two, Canfloyd, 800-263-3551, www.canfloyd.com
Ochre throw
$75 retail, Koppers Home, 866-604-0490, www.koppershome.com
Old Elm console table from $2300 retail, North American Country Home, 888-303-2221, www.northamericancountryhome.com
Set of woven totes with straps from $90 retail, Harman Imports, 800-363-7608, www.harmaninc.com
Solar LED lantern from $22.50 retail, Harman Imports, 800-363-7608, www.harmaninc.com
A Numbers First Mindset W Expert Q &A
Put Your Business Under a Financial Microscope, Please!
By Natalie Hammer Noblitt
hen profit lags, most retailers look to increase their traffic levels. While that’s important for increasing business, retail expert Cathy Donovan Wagner, founder and president of RetailMavens, says setting financial goals and making sure to pay yourself should be the top priority, especially if looking critically at your numbers often gets pushed aside in the daily rush of running your business.
Q. Why is it important to set both short and long-term financial goals for your store?
A. Most owners feel the best way to get ahead financially is to get more people in the door. They focus on increasing traffic to generate more sales, feeling they won’t have to worry so much about their numbers if traffic grows. But getting ahead will still be difficult if they haven’t built the right financial foundation for their business. It’s easy to overspend when you don’t know where you stand and when you don’t have a solid budget in place.
If an owner spends all their resources to get people in the door, but the financial system is a holey bucket, the business
won’t survive. I know most owners are not passionate about numbers. It’s not likely why they opened a store. While financials may not be sexy, they are crucial. There are four steps I advise owners to follow that will successfully build a strong business moving forward. While increasing traffic is important, it’s not the first action to take.
Q. Where should owners start to gain solid financial footing?
A. The first thing you should be doing is paying yourself a salary. I see stores operating without generating pay for the owner, sometimes for years, and it really worries me. The owner should be earning a salary equal to 10 percent of the store’s sales. This starts with knowing where the business stands financially. That’s nonnegotiable. Figuring out your monthly profit after expenses is best, but looking at quarterly profits is fine, too.
Work to align your expenses with your sales. This may seem obvious, but it’s an issue for many stores. Inventory is usually the biggest expense, so aim to keep inventory costs between 48 to 50 percent of sales. Next, set benchmarks for all other expenses like payroll, rent, utilities, marketing, etc. The bottom line is that your expenses, including
paying yourself and the staff, should never exceed your sales. Steps two, three and four should then involve managing inventory, building a solid team and, lastly, finding ways to get more traffic coming to the store.
Q. Why is inventory an important part of goal setting?
A. Do you know exactly how much you have invested and if it’s making money for you? Many owners think they are good at keeping track of this in their head but are shocked when they take stock of everything in the store. Make sure you understand the real numbers in your business.
Fear of jumping in and looking at the numbers is a real thing. This is often what keeps store owners from getting an accurate picture of their financial health. I tell people that finances are like numbers on a scale. The numbers you have right now are just a snapshot of where you are at this moment. It doesn’t reflect what you’ve accomplished or what is possible. It just captures the present. Don’t be too hard on yourself if you don’t like what you see. Knowing where you’re at gives you the power to make changes and meet your goals.
Bank on 20 Best Sellers
Create a NeverOut-Of List
By Natalie Hammer Noblitt
Cathy
Donovan
Wagner of
RetailMavens
trusts you know what your shoppers want to buy, but do you always have that item within reach when someone asks for it? One of the best ways a retailer can increase their cash flow is to stay on top of items that move fast. The trick, she says, is to create a ‘never out of’ (NOO) list. Here’s how: Start with the 20 items that sold the best by unit in the last 12 months. These are the 20 items you never want to run out of. For November and December, that list might be different. Ensure you have the largest quantity of the product you sold in a onemonth period in stock. Ideally, keeping twice the minimum amount on hand is the best way to make sure you will not run out or miss out on sales. Every two weeks, check your inventory levels and reorder as needed.
“The numbers you have right now are just a snapshot of where you are at this moment. It doesn’t reflect what you’ve accomplished or what is possible. It just captures the present. Don’t be too hard on yourself if you don’t like what you see.”
Q. How can owners move forward when the numbers reveal a picture that isn’t pretty?
A. Handling inventory and expenses are key. Get rid of items that aren’t selling and which are tying up your money. Prioritize buying merchandise that is making money. Knowing what items are selling well is important, and you always want to have them in stock. I call them ‘never out of’ items or NOOs. Identify your NOOs. Make sure you always keep these items on hand to sell so you are not missing out on the best chances to earn profit. (See sidebar for more details.)
The right balance of inventory is important because you need cash flow to hire the right people. Strengthening your team is essential to be stable and ready to grow. Set aside 10 percent of your profit after paying yourself for hiring and keeping your team.
The last step is to increase the amount of traffic coming to your store. At this point your business will be set on a strong platform for growth. Now you are ready to provide great products and service when new shoppers arrive.
Q. What long-term and short-term goals should store owners set?
A. Beyond paying yourself and your staff, it’s up to you to decide what goals you want to set. Do you want to build a million-dollar business? Do you dream of buying a new home or car? It can
be whatever is important to you. I call this your sticky number, the one you’re working toward long term.
Once you set a sticky number, it is also important to set smaller goals and celebrate them. People who run marathons often celebrate every mile. What can you give yourself as a reward that will feel good? Maybe it means making enough to take a weekend trip or treat yourself to a little luxury. Set aside one percent of your profits, after paying yourself a salary, that can be used for these smaller celebration goals.
Q. When should an owner seek expert help?
A. For owners who feel good about digging into their numbers, it’s often just a matter of setting aside time to do it. But for those who don’t have time or if it’s outside their comfort zone, hiring outside help will let them set and reach goals faster.
For some owners, delegating daily tasks and spending time focusing on their numbers feels good. But for those who love marketing and being on the floor, it may be best to hand over the financials to someone else. While business owners must juggle a lot, it’s not possible to do everything, especially if you want it done well. Every dollar in your business should have a job. Spending money to get a handle on finances may be the best job for the resources you have.
TexTile Trends
By Erica Kirkland
TA deep dive into global textile movements impacting home décor trends now and in the future
extiles tell stories. They carry memories, reflect identities and document social changes. But how can we learn from the past in order to shape a more sustainable and conscious future? That is what the organizers of Heimtextil, the biggest international trade fair for home and contract textiles, asked themselves when preparing for this year’s show taking place January 14 to 17 in Frankfurt, Germany. The producers of the show created a trend presentation to help guide buyers and manufacturers when it comes to sourcing and stocking textiles. Here are some key takeaways from that guide.
CONNECTING THE PAST TO THE PRESENT
Textiles are much more than just fabrics. Even the word ‘text’ comes from the Latin ‘texere’, which means ‘to weave’ and shows that textiles served as a means of expression and communication long before writing. They link narratives, interweave storylines and have been a central component of our technology for thousands of years. Spinning and weaving fibres was the first human technology and thus the basis for architecture and mathematics.
Today, the focus is on a new, sustainable way of thinking, moving away from pure recycling, reducing and reusing towards regenerative
agriculture and a vocabulary that speaks of restoring, renewing and replenishing. This development marks a profound shift in the sustainability discourse towards a holistic approach that sees textiles as the key to a sustainable future.
RENAISSANCE OF NATURAL FIBRES
In the middle of the fast-paced, digital world we live in, there is a renaissance emerging toward the use of natural fibres and traditional craftsmanship. Natural fibres such as hemp, jute, flax and nettle are making a comeback. This trend speaks to our desire to break free from the digital components of our lives and get back to the physical, tangible aspects
of life. Textiles play a central role in this. They connect people with their cultural heritage and create a contrast to virtual existence through their tactile quality. In the current throwaway culture, which favours shortlived, often irreparable products, textiles and craftsmanship stand for authenticity, sustainability and genuine values. “In an increasingly digital and disembodied world, there is a deep need for physical connection,” says Ilse Crawford, a renowned interior designer.
CIRCULARITY & TRANSPARENCY
Fast consumption and a throwaway culture dominate today’s world. But the importance of care and foresight is becoming increasingly apparent. Dirk Vantyghem, director general of Euratex, emphasises that the textile sector in the EU is currently more than ever at the centre of attention - not least thanks to the European Green Deal. In a time of global uncertainty, the need for durable, functional and sustainable products is growing. Many manufacturers often use terms such as ‘sustainable’ or
‘circular’ arbitrarily. That’s why the European parliament is campaigning for more traceability in the supply chain to combat greenwashing and enable consumers to make more informed purchasing decisions. Italian designer and lecturer Eugenia Morpurgo calls for a fundamental rethink of agricultural practices in textile production and a move away from petroleum-based materials. She warns against economic models that favour disposable products over long-lasting alternatives.
Colours That Tell Stories
The Heimtextil trend report presents a visionary colour palette inspired by six interviews with leaders in the textile field. The colours interweave the ideas and concepts that came up in the discussions. In this way, they tell a vivid story. Natural, unbleached tones meet dynamic, vibrant colours and reflect the tension between tradition and innovation. This contrast represents an active balance that is constantly evolving - characterised by renewal, growth and a forward-looking vision that goes beyond mere sustainability.
Rapid Brewer portable coffee maker
A lightweight coffee maker that brews exquisite, concentrated coffee, hot or cold, anytime, anywhere in 5 minutes or less.
Get the Party Started!
When the weather turns warmer, consumers start to look toward outdoor entertaining and summer-time activities like picnics and hikes. In this feature, our team curated a selection of handpicked products perfect for your store’s spring and summer entertaining assortments.
Styling by Leslie Groves
Photography by Will Fournier
VinOIce Chiller and non-drip pourer for wine, Canada Distributor Corp, 905-706-9463, canadadistributor.com
D’Marie cocktail slushie mixes, $25 retail, Edenborough, 800-265-6398, www.edenborough.com
Printed cocktail napkin, from $6.50 retail for 20 pack, Harman Imports, 800-363-7608, www.harmaninc.com
Milano glass water bottle, from $20 retail, Harman Imports, 800-363-7608, www.harmaninc.com
New 40-ounce Cruiser insulated cup from Corkcicle, $60 retail, Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca
inStore. Winter 2025 inSpire. inForm. inStore.
EntertainingEssentials
Orla Kelly Mug from McLaggan + Co., $25 retail, Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca
Pizza cutter gift-boxed set from Santa Barbara Design Studio, $28 retail, Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca
Stainless steel nesting storage set, $80 retail, Fenigo, www.fenigo.com
Napkin tray with napkins from Santa Barbara Design Studio, $24 retail, Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca
Biodegradable multi-purpose cleaner from $9.10 cost, Jude’s Miracle Cloth, www.judesmiraclecloth.com
Serving tray made from recycled fibres, $25 retail, Candym Enterprises, 800-263-3551, www.candym.com
Stainless steel storage container, $40 retail, Fenigo, www.fenigo.com
Inspire Harmony
Enjoy
Atlanta Gift Show Building 2, Suite 9410 January 14-20,
Make Splash
By Natalie Hammer Noblitt
When most people think of Google Ads, the first thing that comes to mind is keywordsearch advertising. And while that’s one component of creating an effective strategy on the platform, there’s so much more available to help stores increase their visibility. Chelsea Rich is a group account director at Romph & Pou Agency (www.rpagency.com), a full-service marketing firm based in Texas and Louisiana. She says it’s important not to get intimidated when getting started with Google Ads, and she’s confident retailers can jump in themselves and find success to help their business.
Q. Is Google Ads worth the time and financial investment?
A. Absolutely. Google offers a very diverse set of tools for retailers. As the dominant search engine, it boasts 70 percent of search traffic online. And while everyone thinks of keyword ads, they also offer display ads, YouTube and local. Google Local Services Ads are geared towards small business owners. They don’t offer as much ability to customize ads as Google Ads, but they are a great entry-level option and very
Attract New Customers with Google
user friendly. It’s a good opportunity to learn about digital advertising with a robust platform as you get started.
We typically recommend that retailers set up Google Ads and Google Analytics platforms so that they can place ads and take advantage of all the services Google has to offer. You pay per click and can provide ad viewers more information about your business. Google Analytics will also give you insight into how your website content performs and how to improve your digital ads strategy.
If you need help getting started, Google has great customer support chat that can help you through the process. Anyone can set it up without worrying about breaking something in the process. If you don’t set your spending for hundreds of dollars a day in the beginning, you will be fine. We recommend starting out with small dollar amounts to test before moving into a bigger budget.
Q. What should a retailer have in place or know about their own business before getting started?
A. A store will need an active website because Google must have somewhere to send shoppers to learn about the business. Social media is nice to have but not necessarily needed to have to
Ads
take advantage of Google Ads. Looking at your store’s website, it’s important to make sure your contact information and location are correct and easy to find for visitors. In the world of Amazon, shoppers have been trained to expect to find something within two clicks and so you don’t want to create barriers to finding that basic information.
One of the first places to begin is by setting up a Google Business Profile. This is where you go to verify all your store’s information, as it is the true north that Google will use for any business. This is also the time to ensure your contact info and address are listed exactly as they should be and that you have consistency on any other digital sources.
Knowing your customer and the geography you want to target with Google Ads should be your next focus while getting started. Age and gender are important target information to have ready. Most businesses already know their customers, but just haven’t put it into defined terms. I find most business owners really have more information than what Google really needs to get started. Google will provide a slightly broader audience than this for ads and that can be a good thing. A broader audience net may capture customers you
haven’t historically been talking to in your area but who do have an interest in your store.
Q. Is it important to compile a list of keywords before starting Google Ads?
A. Business owners don’t need to worry about generating keywords before they begin with Google Ads. Google will help you figure out what key words you should run. For Google, geography is going to be the most important piece of information as you can’t enter demographic information. Understand what zip codes you want to target.
As an example, a client of ours sold both above-ground and in-ground pool supplies. He found customers who bought above-ground pools tended to live in areas that had bigger lots and neighbourhoods that didn’t have homeowners’ associations. He targeted zip codes in Google Ads matching these characteristics for their above-ground pool ads, but targeted different areas for in-ground pool supplies. Even though the ads weren’t placed using traditional demographics, knowing the makeup of your local geography is the best way to reach the ideal customer you want.
Q. Why is it important to use both Google Analytics and Google Ads?
A. The dual use of ads and analytics will help you learn even more about your best customers and website traffic. Analytics will help you make even better decisions about your ads. It can show you what pages people are spending time on within your website and give you more information about what customers really want from your store. This may sound complicated or be overwhelming if you’ve never worked within the platform, but once people dive in, there are a lot of cool features and information to be found waiting. I find people become fascinated once they get into it and then really want to be involved, even if we’re managing their ads. You kind of get addicted to it. Alphabet, who owns Google, is a multibillion company. There will always be something new to test and new bells
and whistles to try out with the Google platform. Many business owners find once they get established that they are impressed with how much it truly has to offer. When changes come to the platform, there are lots of free tutorials online you can watch to help you keep up with new features.
Q. Is SEO on your website important to working with Google Ads?
A. Search engine optimization can assist you with Google Ads even though they are different universes. If good SEO is helping you rank higher in organic searches, that is beneficial in several ways. While it may not necessarily make it cheaper to run ads, it will make your website and ads more relevant in customer searches, and your ad is likely to be served by Google to your target customers more often.
Q. What mistakes do you see small business owners making with Google Ads?
A. One mistake our clients make all the time is wanting to run a campaign that includes a competitor’s name in the keyword list. This doesn’t work well because the competitor’s name is always going to place higher in rankings for them and you are going to pay a premium to get it. A better strategy is to focus on placing ads with your name as a keyword. By focusing on your own products and services, the information that shows up will be relevant to you and get better rankings for your money. Let your competitor make the mistake of using your name and spending money that helps drive customers to you.
We also find businesses expect to see results too soon from their Google Ads. Because they are digital, many feel they should be getting ad results right away, and if they don’t, they start making immediate changes to their ads. It takes a few weeks for the ads to optimize and hit peak performance. So, making changes early will delay seeing true results.
On the other hand, it can be a mistake to ignore ads for months at a time and
assume everything is going ok. You need to find a balance between too many adjustments and not enough. We suggest looking at ads monthly and make tweaks as needed. If you’re running a promotional ad, that timeframe may need to be shorter. Google Ads, however, may not be the best place to advertise a sale or a short promotion. Social media may be a better fit for advertising a limited-time announcement for your store.
Q. When is it best to let an expert handle Google Ads instead of doing it alone?
A. We find it’s best to get an expert involved in managing your Google Ads when your business gets to the point where all your operational employees need to be focused on other tasks. If you and your employees need to focus elsewhere, it makes the most sense to hire it out.
One great aspect of hiring an agency or expert after you’ve gotten your ads up and running is that you now understand how it works and can be an involved partner in the process. We’ve seen many businesses where a collegeage child or other family member started the Google Ads, but as the company grew that person needed to focus on other duties. These transitions work well and let us really help them grow from that point.
We also would remind potential clients that Google is like the tip of the spear when it comes to increasing your store’s visibility and reach. There’s also social media, traditional media and more. While Google and Facebook may have great support, an agency is going to be platform agnostic and want to get the best results for your business, no matter where they can be found. Experts can advise you on where the best mix of advertising will be for your needs and help you spend your money wisely.
Keeping up with changes and trends on these platforms can also be too much for some business owners when running their own ads. As an agency, it’s our job to keep up with what’s new and give our clients the best advantages.
The Best for Baby
Toys and gifts for your baby and children’s department
Styling by Leslie Groves
Photography by Will Fournier
Warm & Cozy
Heartwarming gender-neutral gifts
Cuddle Buddy Mouse
$39.95 retail, Warm Buddy Company, 888-649-0649, www.warmbuddy.com
Wall art
$22 retail, Nostalgia Import Canada, 800-785-7855, www.nostalgia-import.com
Bamboo sorter set from Mary Meyer’s new Simply Silicone line, $26.99 retail, Kidcentral Supply, 877-218-0395, www.kidcentral.ca
Just Born by Gerber sweater-knit blanket
$39.99 retail, Kidcentral Supply, 877-218-0395, www.kidcentral.ca
Just Born by Gerber sweater-knit romper
$26.99 retail, Kidcentral Supply, 877-218-0395, www.kidcentral.ca
Cuddle Buddy Penguin
$39.95 retail, Warm Buddy Company, 888-649-0649, www.warmbuddy.com
One More Book Before Bed from Compendium
Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca
Baby Einstein toy radio, $19.99 retail, Kidcentral Supply, 877-218-0395, www.kidcentral.ca
Sweet Dreams
Muted primary colours tell a charming story
Bear night light from Demdaco, $50, Canfloyd, 800-263-3551, www.canfloyd.com
Gingham pajama, $40 retail, Sunset Snuggles, www.sunsetsnuggles.com
Scal Is Your Business Ready to
10 Metrics to Guide your Growth
By Natalie Hammer Noblitt
Growing your business is an exciting prospect, but it’s a move that requires careful evaluation to ensure your store’s operational model and finances can handle the increased demands. “If you leap too soon or without the right information, it could be a costly mistake,” warns Melinda Emerson, known as the Small Biz Lady, a bestselling author, keynote speaker and marketing expert. While many people look to expansion as the best way to make more money when things are going well, Emerson says that isn’t necessarily the best move for all businesses.
Before making big decisions about expansion, it’s crucial to assess the health of your business. Emerson often advises her retail and small business clients to use a list of metrics before diving into new ventures. We asked Emerson to walk us through 10 of those metrics and provide guidance on why they deserve careful research when determining whether a store is ready to scale.
METRIC 1: REVENUE GROWTH
Emerson advises that it’s essential to analyze revenue trends over time, not just in the moment. Have sales been growing consistently? Notice what patterns develop over time, such as seasonal spikes or declines, and determine what’s driving that
growth, she says. Ask yourself, “Is this growth sustainable, or does it fluctuate unpredictably?” Consulting with an accountant to calculate these figures accurately can provide you with a clear picture of your business’s financial health, she adds.
METRIC 2: PROFIT MARGINS
“It’s not just about what you make — it’s about what you keep,” says Emerson. She emphasizes that your store’s profit margins are critical. Determine your operating profit after paying everyone, including yourself. Take a close look at gross and net profit margins to assess whether your business is generating steady profits. If your margins are shrinking due to rising costs, like increased cost of goods or other fees, it may be time to reevaluate your pricing strategy or operational efficiency, she says.
There are three areas where she says business owners should try to improve profits before planning for growth — cost management, pricing strategy and operational efficiency. Improving cost management means taking time to identify and reduce unnecessary expenses. Pricing strategy requires reevaluating pricing plans for goods and services to ensure they align with the value provided by the business. Operational efficiency means streamlining operations to improve productivity for both management and staff to reduce costs.
METRIC 3: CUSTOMER ACQUISITION COST (CAC) AND LIFETIME VALUE (LTV)
Understanding your CAC and LTV is crucial. “If the cost of acquiring a customer is high and the lifetime value is low, scaling could strain your finances rather than grow your business,” explains Emerson. To optimize these metrics, focus on reducing your CAC through enhanced marketing strategies and increasing your LTV by improving customer retention and upselling. Take into consideration the age of your customer base, and if they will continue to be your customer as they move into different phases of life. Ask yourself, “What can you do to keep them and extend their relationship with your business?”
At the same time, moving to a new location will require more marketing and messaging, so take this into consideration if your business is expanding outside of your normal customer acquisition area.
METRIC 4: CHURN RATE
A high churn rate indicates issues with customer retention, a problem that must be addressed before scaling. Regularly gathering customer feedback and improving engagement through personalized communication can help reduce churn. Emerson advises, “Customer engagement and loyalty programs are key to keeping customers coming back.”
Scal e?
METRIC 5: CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIPS
Retail businesses are personal by nature, and Emerson notes that many store owners don’t track customer interactions closely enough. “One of the biggest mistakes is not tracking customer visits or purchases,” she says. Knowing who your customers are, how often they shop, and what they buy can provide invaluable insights. Regularly surveying existing customers to understand what keeps them coming back can help you tailor your offerings to meet their needs.
METRIC 6: CASH FLOW MANAGEMENT
Scaling requires significant investment, making cash flow management vital. Emerson advises retailers to look closely at their cash burn rate. “You need to ensure you have enough cash flow to support the increased operational costs that come with growth,” she says. This involves detailed financial planning, exploring funding options and keeping a tight rein on expenses. Consider your credit, what loan options you may have available and how you can squirrel away money to help pay for increased expenses, Emerson adds.
METRIC 7: FUNDING
If you don’t have all the cash you need to expand, securing the necessary
funds for growth can be challenging. Adequate funding is essential to support increased operational costs, marketing efforts and needed infrastructure upgrades. To secure funding, Emerson tells retailers to plan carefully and explore a variety of options.
Prepare detailed financial projections and business plans to attract investors and show you are ready. When looking at funding sources, investigate various funding sources such as venture capital, angel investors, loans and grants. Investor relations are important if you really want financial investments, she says. Build strong relationships with potential investors and communicate your growth strategy effectively.
METRIC 8: MARKET RESEARCH
Before scaling, it’s essential to understand the market you’re entering. Conduct thorough research to identify trends and evaluate the competitive landscape. Knowing who your customer is currently, and who they could be, is the cornerstone of any successful expansion, she says. Understand the values of the people you want to attract and what you can provide them with as your business grows. What are you going to do the same, different or better to retain customers in this new venture?
Don’t forget location research when you plan to expand to a new area or building. Spend time in the area at different times of day to see who is around and what traffic patterns are like. Emerson suggests, “Understand what used to be in the location you’re considering. Why didn’t those previous businesses do well? What are the demographics in the area? Do they fit your industry, market trends and your ideal customer?”
METRIC 9: TEAM SCALING
A growing business needs a capable and motivated workforce. “Hiring the right talent and managing them effectively is essential for scaling,” says Emerson. Invest in employee development and maintain a strong company culture to
ensure your team is ready to support your expansion efforts. Also important is planning for the work to be done. “Operational efficiency is key — streamline processes to improve productivity for yourself and your team members to reduce costs,” she advises. Ensure you have clear and consistent communication with the team as changes and planning take shape. “Regularly gather and act on employee feedback to maintain a supportive work environment,” she adds.
METRIC 10: INFRASTRUCTURE AND TECH
Ensure your technology and infrastructure can support increased demands. Emerson recommends investing in scalable IT solutions and robust cybersecurity measures. For small businesses, this sometimes can be an afterthought but it’s especially important if your business is selling online. Will you need new tech, POS systems or other physical security systems? Make sure your budget allows room for all these needs.
FINAL THOUGHTS:
Emerson says that she hopes by evaluating these key metrics and learning from others’ successes and mistakes, retailers can jump into the process of scaling with their eyes wide open. She advises that owners will feel much more confident after digging into these numbers and knowing their business is ready to take on the challenges and opportunities. If the move isn’t right, she says a lot of heartache can be saved by waiting until the business is better aligned for expansion.
“Scaling isn’t without its challenges,” Emerson concludes. “Balancing growth with maintaining quality, securing funding and adapting to market demands are just a few of the hurdles. But with careful planning and a clear strategy, you can position your business for sustainable and continued growth.”
By Nickeisha Lewis
C Engage Customers Through Storytelling
ustomers are always seeking more than just products when they shop with you — they want an experience. They crave something memorable, engaging, and worth talking about. As a retailer, you can meet this need by transforming your store into a storytelling journey, where every display and product tells a meaningful story. By embracing storytelling as part of your merchandising strategy, you’ll not only draw shoppers in but also leave them with a lasting impression.
TURN SHOPPING INTO A STORYTELLING EXPERIENCE
Our brains are wired to connect with stories, and shopping is no exception. A strong narrative — about your store, your products or even your sourcing process — can elevate the shopping experience from ordinary to unforgettable. Instead of overwhelming customers with stacks of t-shirts or rows of indistinguishable products, use your displays to spark curiosity and emotion.
For example, create a “rare find” spot in your store that features a hidden gem of the week or a display showcasing products you love as the shop owner. This makes the shopping experience feel special, almost like a treasure hunt.
LET YOUR DISPLAYS DO THE TALKING
Think about the story behind your products and how your displays can bring them to life. Group items by theme, region or even mood. For example, organize food products based on where they’re sourced or arrange candles and home accents by the feelings they evoke — relaxation, energy, or nostalgia.
Detailed product storytelling can take this even further. Use title cards to highlight a product’s origin, or share a brief biography of the maker. This turns products into something more than just items; they become part of a larger narrative, making them feel more valuable and desirable to your customers.
USE SIGNAGE TO SHARE YOUR NARRATIVE
Signage is an underrated but powerful tool for storytelling. Wall displays can share your store’s history or highlight the inspiration behind your brand, while smaller signs can tell the story of individual products. Thoughtful, visually appealing signage not only enhances the shopping experience but also communicates your store’s personality and values in an approachable way.
EDUCATE YOUR TEAM TO TELL THE STORY
Your staff plays a key role in bringing the store’s story to life. Make sure they’re familiar with the origins and details of your products so they can share those stories with customers. A quick story about a product’s maker or its unique journey can make all the difference when it comes to purchasing decisions. Customers are more likely to buy something when it feels personal or meaningful.
In today’s competitive retail world, storytelling can set your store apart. By creating displays that engage, educate, and inspire, you’ll turn shopping into something more meaningful. Products become memories, and your store becomes a destination. Give your customers a reason to connect and linger. A good story can be the difference between a one-time shopper and a lifelong customer.
