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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

By Steve Di Orio, Posted in Holidays

Most retail stores wind up ordering way more merchandise than usual during the whirlwind holiday season. With shoppers purchasing gifts in addition to holiday outfits and accessories for themselves, much more of your product is flying out the door than usual. This is an extremely busy time of year for retailers, and keeping track of your stock is crucial to ensuring your customers have access to everything you have to offer as well as staying on top of theft. Here are a few ways to keep your warehouse shelv... read more.

• December 11, 2015

By Steve Di Orio, Posted in Holidays

Promotional appearances by beloved characters, whether that be a Disney princess, the Easter Bunny, or more appropriately for the holiday season, Santa Claus, can be a great way to get attention to your store. Any kid walking by with their parents will drag mom and dad into your store for a closer look at Santa. Does this up your odds of them making a purchase? Is it worth the extra funds to hire these characters? According to Thumbtack.com, a site that delivers customized quotes so you can compare pricing,... read more.

• December 04, 2015

By Steve Di Orio, Posted in Holidays

When you suddenly have more products than usual, or you are selling merchandise that is time-sensitive, such as for a particular holiday, you might need to change up your display plan. These items need to be showcased in a way that they will move fast and will be easily seen by frazzled holiday shoppers. So instead of shoving this surplus merchandise anywhere it will fit, keep some of these ideas in mind. Start at the front and work your way back. This includes your window display as well as the retail disp... read more.

• November 27, 2015

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.

• November 20, 2015

By Steve Di Orio, Posted in Business Management

If you have been running your retail store for a while now, either alone or with the help of a few select friends and family members, you might be considering adding on more employees as you gain momentum. Being the only person running a store can be challenging: helping customers, operating the register, keeping track of inventory, and watching out for theft can be a difficult job for only one person. But who do you hire first? How do you get the word out? We’re here to help you get started. You will ne... read more.

• November 13, 2015

By Steve Di Orio, Posted in Holidays

During the holidays every retail store is trying to one up each other with their holiday displays. The bigger, grander, brighter – the better. But if you run a smaller retail store, it can be tough to compete with the big box stores. Having a mechanical, moving Santa Claus along with his reindeer in your store window just might not be a possibility. But don’t worry, there are other ways you can capture attention for your holiday displays and merchandise. Start with the windows. If your store has... read more.

• November 06, 2015

By Steve Di Orio, Posted in Holidays

Keeping all of the merchandise in your retail store safe during the holidays can be a challenge. You likely have ordered products in larger quantities than you typically do in order to ensure the high demands of holiday shoppers. Making sure all of those items are accounted for and secure while also managing an influx of customers, seasonal employees that might not know the ropes yet, and general day-to-day store duties can be overwhelming. If you aren’t prepared, you could be looking at increased the... read more.

• October 30, 2015