The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and Yelp are partnering to provide America’s small businesses with the information they need to engage with online reviewers and monitor their online reputations. According to the 2013 Local Consumer Review Survey from BrightLocal, 85 percent of consumers read online reviews about local businesses. In addition, trust in reviews is increasing, enabling consumers to form opinions faster and act on those opinions.
Author: Publisher
From the simple to the ornate, your customers will be sure to make a statement with today’s popular jewelry accessories. Whether they want to dress their looks up or down, be sure to offer a range of styles for can’t miss selling opportunities.
To meet the needs of the growing number of mobile users among shoppers, retailers agree that mobile must be the number one priority for their digital business in 2014.
The ASD Las Vegas trade show, now in its 53rd year, will be held March 16-19 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. More than 2,800 exhibitors and 45,000 attendees are expected to attend.
The February 2014 issue of Independent Retailer Magazine includes a feature and special preview of ASD Las Vegas exhibitors.
High quality fashion jewelry is always in style, and retailers who work with creative suppliers will see swift sales throughout the year. Gold plated and two- and three-tone rings and pendants, frosted with semi-precious stones, are among today’s most chic looks.
Hundreds of businesses each year receive grant funding from various government agencies and non-profit organizations. Such funds must be used to start a new business or enhance an existing one, and do not have to be repaid. Others can be used for innovation research.
The Zoo & Aquarium Buyer’s Group (ZAG) was started in the late 1980s by a group of buyers who met annually at the Smoky Mountain Gift Show in Gatlinburg, TN. Participation has now grown to over 350 members, with Donna Steakley as board president.
Pantone’s Color of the Year has sparked growing interest and promotion over the last few years. Initially embraced by the design community, the campaign is now reaching a wider audience, with many industries taking an active interest in which hue receives the esteemed title.
Fashion accessories offer numerous opportunities for sales in almost any retail setting. Today’s best sellers include cell phone covers, jewelry, hats and handbags, and are great impulse buys with good profit margins.