Articles In 'Store Management'

By Steve Di Orio, Posted in Store Management

For many store owners, after the holidays brings a dreaded month of returns. In 2014, 11% of returns were from holiday sales, according to the Consumer Returns in the Retail Industry report sponsored the National Retail Federation (NRF). Returns are also up more than 26% during the holidays. But what are you supposed to do when the merchandise that is being returned is something you no longer carry? Many holiday shoppers start picking up their gifts well in advance, and by the time the holidays come around... read more.

• February 22, 2025

By Steve Di Orio, Posted in Store Management

Setting customer service policies can be one of the most daunting tasks a small business faces when starting up, but it’s one of the most critical. We all know that exceptional customer service is what keeps a customer returning time after time, but how do you provide it without compromising your bottom line? With a documented, thorough customer service policy! It’s likely that you have a ton of other projects on your plate, but taking the time to set up customer service policies can help you in the long... read more.

• February 16, 2025

By Steve Di Orio, Posted in Store Management

Once you’ve put hours into your business plan, come up with the financial backing, found a location and purchased all of your merchandise, you are finally ready to launch your new store. Congratulations! This is a major accomplishment and it’s not always easy to turn a dream or idea into a reality. After already making such an investment into your store, both financially and time-wise, you want to make sure the launch is as successful as possible. You only get one first impression, so make it count. ... read more.

• February 04, 2025

By Steve Di Orio, Posted in Store Management

When preparing for the holidays, retail store owners typically order extra inventory. Since items are in such high demand this time of year, it’s important to be able to meet the needs of customers to ensure they don’t go elsewhere. But once the holidays have passed, where do you put the extras? It’s important to have a backstock organization plan to keep good track of your inventory. Utilize Warehouse Shelving Warehouse shelving and other storage systems allow for ample space for extra inventory. Thi... read more.

• February 01, 2025

By Steve Di Orio, Posted in Store Management

When opening a small business there are many regulations and laws that you need to adhere to. These rules don’t just apply to big businesses, and your small retail store will need to keep these in mind as well. The U.S. Small Business Administration has compiled the basic laws that you’ll need to be aware of, from advertising and marketing law to workplace safety & health law and everything in-between. Advertising & Marketing We all know how important having a marketing plan is to making your... read more.

• January 29, 2025

By Steve Di Orio, Posted in Store Management

When you are planning the layout of your store, retail shelving will likely play a major role. No matter what industry you work in: convenience, pharmacy, pet, liquor, beauty, etc., there are store fixtures that are made to showcase your merchandise. But what kind of shelves do you need and when should you buy them? We’ll help you answer these questions. Let’s start with the basics. Gondola shelving and more. Gondola shelving is known as the “workhorse” of the retail industry for a reason. These shelv... read more.

• January 20, 2025

By Steve Di Orio, Posted in Electronics Stores, Store Management

If you run a smaller electronics store it can be difficult to compete with the big box retailers that are purchasing large quantities of merchandise and selling them at lower prices. Because of this, it’s important to get noticed in other ways, such as having the most knowledgeable staff or really focusing on store displays in your stand-out showroom. Knowledge When it comes to electronics, many people depend on the employees at the store to guide them in the direction of the product they need. There... read more.

• January 11, 2025

By Steve Di Orio, Posted in Retail Growth Strategies, Store Management

As you probably already know, marketing is a huge factor in the success of your business. You can have a great product or service, but without marketing to spread the word it can be difficult to bring in customers, especially if you are just starting out and newer to the industry. Marketing is a way to tell the community what type of business you run; the voice and brand that you want to share with the world. It is also a way to provide incentives to customers and give them a reason to choose your goods or... read more.

• December 24, 2024

By Steve Di Orio, Posted in Store Management

Many retail establishments have a hard time recruiting great talent for their store. With so many young adults flocking to retail careers for a “job just to earn some extra money” or “for the great discounts” it is hard to find individuals that actually take their role seriously and are willing to work hard to make your store a real success. Because of the often limited funds that many retail stores have to pay employees, it is hard to attract top talent. One way to attract great tal... read more.

• December 12, 2024

By Steve Di Orio, Posted in Retail Growth Strategies, Store Management

If you own a retail store that is not part of a major chain, you are likely on a much different budget than the big box stores. While your budget for marketing is probably much lower, getting your name out there is extremely important. So how do you maintain your customers, get new business and remain profitable with a more limited marketing budget? Here are a few ways to keep your store top of mind without breaking the bank on advertising. Get online. Even if you only plan to sell your merchandise from ret... read more.

• December 09, 2024