YOU CAN COMPETE WITH THE BIG-BOX STORES!Whether you're a seasoned merchant or retail newbie, Retail 101 is the guide you need to successfully manage, market, and grow your retail business, brick and mortar or online. From two of today's top retail thought leaders, Retail 101 serves both as a strategic planning guide and as a hands-on practical reference that answers your critical questions along the way.
"The ultimate how-to guide for independent retailers. Each chapter addresses a vital ingredient for retail success, including helpful ideas, useful lists, and action guides." -- Ted Teele, Chief Executive Officer, SnapRetail
"While small retailers may feel like an endangered species, those who read this practical guidebook to retail survival will come away confident that they have unique assets they can turn into sustainable profits." -- Molly Love Rogers, President and CEO of Internet Retailer
"If you've ever felt alone or frustrated building your business, read this book today!" -- Joe Abraham, founder of BOSI Global, author of Entrepreneurial DNA
Acknowledgements
Introduction
Part 1: Being Indie in a Big Box World
Chapter 1: Standing Out Among the Crowd
Action Guide
Chapter 2: Stepping Outside Your Comfort Zone
Habits of Successful Retailers
Action Guide
Chapter 3: Leaning On Outside Organizations
Getting Involved With Outside Organizations
Benefits That Organizations May Offer
Action Guide
Chapter 4: Identifying Your Unique Store Story
Creating an Inventory Assortment That Stands Out
The Unique Traits of Your Store
General Interview Questions for Potential Employees
Action Guide
Part II: Practical Steps to Increase Your Store Visibility and Sales
Chapter 5: Sourcing Products through Trade Shows and the Internet
The Benefits of Sourcing as a Retailer
Working with Wholesalers
Understanding the Value of Trade Shows
Managing Orders Placed at Shows
Utilizing Online Sourcing Platforms
Action Guide
Chapter 6: Buying For Customer vs. Yourself
Understanding the Basics of Retail Math
Introducing Customer Feedback for Inventory Management
Using Point of Sale to Help Manage Inventory
Action Guide
Chapter 7: Selling Your Products
Introducing and Managing Store Events
Highlighting Inventory through Displays
Using Modern Technology in Your Store
Identifying If Mobile Commerce Matters
Action Guide
Chapter 8: Applying Press and Marketing to Your Business Using Email to Communicate Store Messages
Using the Internet as a Marketing Platform
Resources Every Independent Retailer Should Know About
Action Guide
Part III: Making a Mark in the Economy
Chapter 9: Making Your Presence Online
Embracing E-Commerce
Social Media in Today's Retail Marketplace
Action Guide
Chapter 10: Taking Part in Shop Local Initiatives
Understanding Buy Local Campaigns
Finding Success Through Small Business Saturday
Introducing Commerce and Charity
Action Guide
Chapter 11: A Crystal Ball for Independent Retailers
The Future of Independent Retail
The Future Beyond Technology
When Retail Isn't In Your Future
Parting Words from Jason Prescott
Parting Words from Nicole Leinbach Reyhle
Conclusion
Appendix A: Resources for Independent Retailers
Appendix B: Common Retail Terms and Definitions
