Blog

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 Gondola Shelving Accessories

Not enough room to display your merchandise? Not sure how to properly showcase that oddly-shaped item? Or do you find yourself constantly picking up fallen items from your shelving? These are all common merchandise display problems that can easily be fixed with the right gondola accessories. We’re sharing some popular accessories that can be implemented to quickly fix common problems and keep your products displayed just the way you want. Limited Space If your store space is limited, it can be difficu... read more.

• February 26, 2016

By Steve Di Orio, Posted in

As a small business owner, there’s no better way to learn about your business and customers than everyday experience. But every business owner can benefit from the advice and experience of those that have come before them, and that’s where retail blogs can be helpful. Take just a few minutes each day to read an article or two on these blogs and you might be surprised at the industry updates and inspiration they provide. We’ve rounded up a few of our favorites to check out. SmallBizDaily. This online... read more.

• February 19, 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 Holidays

Just when you think the holidays are over, Valentine’s Day comes sneaking around the corner. But don’t stow away those Christmas display shelves just yet! If you have red painted shelves leftover from the holidays, recycle them into your Valentine’s Day displays. Here are a few ways to enhance your store for Valentine’s Day this year. Festive Store Shelving: As we mentioned above, painted shelves that correspond with holiday colors are a great way to bring a festive feel into your store. Add red, whi... read more.

• January 29, 2016

By Steve Di Orio, Posted in Gondola Shelving Accessories

Gondola accessories round out the store shelving your business needs. If you are running out of shelf space, having difficulty showcasing your merchandise, or want to freshen things up with new displays, adding on some accessories can help check all of those boxes. Here are three options that can be beneficial to many retail establishments. Upright Extenders Upright extenders are really beneficial for two reasons: they are great for when you start to run out of shelf space and also offer an opportunity to s... read more.

• January 22, 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