Smoky Mountain Gift Show Section

Souvenir Best-Sellers (From page 84)

Changes in Buying Habits

During the course of the pandemic, museum shops have noticed changes in customers’ spending habits. Since reopening, Kwiecien said many customers shopping for children are more likely to say “yes” to a child asking for a toy or game. “People are spending more and are trying to make up for the vacation they missed last year,” she said. “They are more likely to purchase a higher priced kit or add on a few impulse items at checkout.”

Barrels make great display pieces at The James Museum of Western and Wildlife Art. Smaller home good items are selling well for the store.

Harry Martin , director of visitor experience at The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art in St. Petersburg, Fla., said since reopening in the summer of 2020, patrons have been eager to see the shop’s new merchandise, particularly items from new indigenous vendors, and all of its fresh, seasonal books. The shop has seen an increase in sales since welcoming everyone back. “It seems that guests are ready to escape the confines of quarantine and have been spending more time in the galleries and shopping,” he said.

“We continue to see lots of thoughtful gifting, particularly with families. Children’s merchandise and hands-on toys are always a hit.”

Sagar has observed that customers are staying longer at her 1,300-square-foot shop.

Continued on page 88 news