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11/10/2003

Helpful Hints for the Retail Biz
by Erika Sutherland, Training Coordinator, UA SBDC

As we move into the busiest season of the year, issues like merchandising and customer service are key to your retail store’s success. Below are some tips to help you get through the busy holiday season.

·Know your inventory level at all times. You have a 100% chance of not selling something you do not have in stock.

·Keep your shelves stocked and organized. Empty, messy shelves will decrease sales.

·In regards to clearance, use price points instead of percentages. Customers recognize “Was/Now” pricing better than “Percentage Off” pricing.

· Keep your clearance area as organized as possible. No one likes to look at a mess and customers may not feel it is worth the time to search.

·Your employees should be knowledgeable of what they are selling as well as friendly and courteous at all times.

·Show the value of your merchandise. If you have the best price in town for a particular item, let your customers know.

·To stand out from the crowd consider additional services like gift wrapping, late pick-up or delivery.

These may sound like no-brainers but the small business owner can’t afford to overlook the small things. Happy Holidays!

Helpful websites for the retail business owner.
http://www.retailadvisors.net
http://www.dsnretailingtoday.com

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The Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center is funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration through a partnership with the University of Arkansas at Little Rock College of Business and other institutions of higher education. All opinions, conclusions or recommendations expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA. It is the goal of UALR to eliminate discriminatory harassment and to promote equal opportunity regardless of race, gender, color, national origin, sexual orientation, age, religion, veteran's status, or disability.