Apparel Trends and Bargains

Hot fashion trends, designer names and designer logos may capture the heart of the fashion conscious buyer in 2010, but an equally strong pull will continue to be the tug of tight purse strings, as unemployment lingers uneasily at over 10 percent nationwide and family budgets stay tight. But what seems to be boding well for the independent retailer in the apparel category is that everyone needs to buy clothes, and even for those shoppers who do not intend to replace their entire 2009 wardrobe with new items, they will need to supplement and spruce... 

Total Display Resource

A critical question for many small business people with big dreams is: how do you take a bright idea that may start off in a garage or other less than ideal location, and grow it into a multi-million dollar company? For Michael Fried, founder of M. Fried Store Fixtures in Brooklyn, NY, who started a shelving company in his basement in 1991, the critical keys to success were quality products, a passion for customer service, and competitive pricing, says Michael Lebor, director of sales and marketing for the firm. “When you furnish great customer... 

Building Profits with Sunglasses

Sunglasses rank among the highest profit retail categories, and they are way less seasonal purchases than in years past. But they won’t sell themselves without a little help. Unless you offer a mix of popular styles, colors and price points, and prominently display them, you could be leaving sales and profits on the table. Unless retailers are seasoned veterans of this market, sunglass wholesalers can help determine the best mix. Many sunglasses suppliers are well positioned today to assist in capturing the fashion conscious buyer, the budget... 

2010 Business Leaders Forecast

The global recession that officially began late in 2007, the worst since the Great Depression, is finally loosening its ugly grip on the economy. In recent interviews with key wholesalers, the overwhelming verdict was that 2010 looks strong for independent retailers, wholesalers, distributors and closeout buyers. Although most of those interviewed were uncertain if Washington, D.C. policymakers had the wherewithal to fix the wounded economy, what they were absolutely certain of was the direction of their own companies and the outlook for their customers. Lisa... 

Personal Service Sparks Sales

Service trumps price, even in tough economic times, according to many retail experts. Independent retailers often have the edge when it comes to delivering top notch personal service. Because they are a part of the neighborhood and know their clientele, independent store owners can make service truly personal by tailoring special services to customers who will appreciate them. Gift wrapping is one example. Home delivery is another. So are special orders, and informing customers when something arrives that may interest them. Mistakes happen at every... 

Fragrances and Scents for High Margins

For centuries, fragrances and scents have been used to establish a mood or change one. That is as true today as it ever was. Women and men look to perfume and scents for a crowning touch of luxury. The market for home fragrance products has become equally important. According to a consumer insights study by Unity Marketing in Stevens, PA, 80 percent of American adults purchase products to make their homes smell good. “The most profound shift that has occurred in the consumer market is that having a pleasant smelling home is not just for special... 

Kiosks Spread Fun

Fun always attracts attention, especially if the source is something novel. Two kiosk and cart suppliers offer products that provide an opportunity to capitalize on tickling the funny bone and delighting with irresistible flavors. Mini Melts, which migrated from abroad to its base in Norwich, CT, provides a new and novel way of selling ice cream. Backgate Designs Inc. in Morgan Hill, CA has patented, “Flair Hair Visors,” head visors from which soft spikes of synthetic hair erupt to cap the head. There are 19 different visor colors, including...