| |
An old Chinese proverb states that “The first steps toward better times is to imagine them.” During the Thanksgiving season, more than ever, we come to appreciate what we have and those we share it with. This year has presented a multitude of challenges for most of us, and we have to think that the only way to move forward is to look for better things ahead.
With the current economic climate as it is, you have to wonder how it will affect upcoming holiday sales and the famous “Black Friday” shopping event. Personally, I think people will still be out there bright and early and ready to spend throughout the month. However, price and value will be at the forefront of their minds as they scour the shelves and make their purchases. They may look for that one unique gift (that you can provide) instead of a plethora of generic purchases.
So make them thankful that they came into your store. Shower them with kindness and give them more than just a great product — give them a great experience that will leave them thinking that despite the problems they may have, better times are ahead.
It helps to put things in perspective. Gas prices may be high, but we still have the freedom to drive from place to place. Our cell phones or Internet may cut out, but we come to realize that it’s an inconvenience, not a life-altering event. Sales spike, sales slow and you still have friends and family to share these experiences with.
And if all else fails, gobble 'til you wobble.
|
|
   
|
|
Industry Profile
Tonda Silinsky, Samaritan Hospital Gift Shop
hat makes your store unique?
We not only serve the public, but the majority of our customers are hospital employees. Every June at the volunteer banquet we donate to the hospital and stipulate what we would like our donation applied toward the hospital “wish list.” So, in essence, we not only provide a shopping experience, but also provide money for the hospital to help the community — our family and friends.
What is your retail background?
I began as an art director for a children’s publisher, which afforded me a good eye for color and design. My next job was as an interior decorator with a paint, wallpaper and blind store. My last retail job was as a floral designer, and I also did the displays in the shop and ran the register. This gave me the experience to do all the fresh and silk arrangements for the Samaritan Hospital Gift Shop.
What is the most popular product you sell?
I would have to say our plush, which covers "get well," baby, everyday and seasonal.
What trade shows do you attend?
We go to the Gift Mart in Columbus, as well as some cash-and-carry shows.
What are the least and most expensive products you sell?
The most expensive would be our jewelry line, AmeriBags and Laurel Burch purses. The least expensive would be our children’s toys.
What advice do you have for other retailers?
Be careful about reorders. With our customer base, the second order usually dies on the shelf. Periodically send out a letter asking for customers’ opinions on what they would like to see in the store. Make sure you have a wide range of prices to accommodate all budgets. |
|
 
How many new vendors
do you add each year?
|
| |
GLM, Whereoware Expand Online Catalog Gallery
GLM, a dmg world media business, and Whereoware have expanded the Online Catalog Gallery -- a visual product finder -- to Web sites for the National Stationery Show, The Gourmet Housewares Show, The Supply Side and the West Coast Gift Shows in Los Angeles, Portland, San Francisco and Seattle.
NRF Holiday Headquarters Open for Business
The National Retail Federation (NRF), the world's largest retail trade group, has created a one-stop shop on its Web site for press and analysts, retailers, suppliers and the general public to find timely holiday research and information.
Fiesta Celebrates 37th Birthday
The year 2009 will mark plush toy maker Fiesta's 37th year.
|
|
|
|
Treasure Keepers
Planet Zoo offers Treasure Keepers, assorted boxed notes featuring amazing wildlife photography. Each box includes 20 notecards – five each of four different designs.
Planet Zoo
|
|
|
Every Theme, Every Store
American Gift Corporation offers over 10,000 uniquely designed items such as this hummingbird trinket box and butterfly frame.
American Gift Corp.
|
|
|
Award-Winning Fun
The Tri-Cross board game from Fame USA Products, Inc. was selected by the Washington Post Kids Post as one of the 30 best new games and toys.
Fame Products
|
|
|
Scratch, Sparkle, Stick
Kids are stuck on stickers! The compact, colorful Scratch Magic Stickers counter display from Scratch-Art Co. features 12 packs each of Scratch Magic stickers.
Scratch-Art Co.
|
|
|
TEXT-ONLY ADS ARE AVAILABLE!
Call Gavin Cribbs to find out how you can advertise your product or business in this special text-only ad area! 800-825-0900, ext. 109 |
|
|
