Articles In 'Store Management'

By Handy Store Fixtures, Posted in Retail, Store Management

Spring tends to be a slow time of year for brick and mortar stores, which means it’s the perfect time to get cleaning. We’ve compiled a spring cleaning checklist to help you clean your retail store. Follow the list, and your store will look clean and inviting, encouraging customers to browse longer and purchase more.... read more.

• April 18, 2018

By Steve Di Orio, Posted in Store Management

If you own a retail store, you have likely come across the term “Point of Sale System.” Wikipedia describes it as: “A retail point of sale system typically includes a cash register (which in recent times comprises a computer, monitor, cash drawer, receipt printer, customer display and a barcode scanner) and the majority of retail POS systems also include a debit/credit card reader.” According to Entrepreneur.com’s small business encyclopedia, “POS software records each sa... read more.

• April 12, 2016

By Steve Di Orio, Posted in Store Management

You’re locking up your expensive merchandise, protecting your store from theft. But of course, you also want things to look good and appealing to customers. When considering store security cases, the first thing you want to think about is the balance between functionality and presentation. If you’re locking up high-end items, presentation is still important. How does the security case fit in with the aesthetics and atmosphere of your store? The next thing you want to think about is utility. How... read more.

• April 05, 2016

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.

• March 04, 2016

By Steve Di Orio, Posted in Store Management

It’s a competitive landscape for small business owners. Between fighting amongst the ranks of the big box retailers and holding your own against similar operations, staying afloat can be challenging. It’s important to understand and game plan for hurdles you know you are likely to face. Avoiding common pitfalls that you know can lead to trouble, such as taking out too big of a loan or not understanding your market, can help ensure your success down the road. Here are a few common mistakes store... read more.

• February 05, 2016

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.

• January 15, 2016

By Steve Di Orio, Posted in Store Management

New year new retail displays? If your displays have gotten stale and you’re ready for a change, switching up your store shelving can help. After the holidays is the perfect time to update your store layout. This is typically the time of year when many retailers have some down time, and instead of having employees refolding the same pile of shirts again, have them help you freshen up those displays. First, clear out any leftover holiday signage or displays. You’d be surprised what you find lingering aroun... read more.

• January 08, 2016

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.

• January 01, 2016

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.

• December 25, 2015

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.

• December 18, 2015