I read some good news recently in the National Retail Federation’s newsletter. This past holiday season, shoppers deliberately sought out the locally owned businesses. According to a survey, which gathered data from more than 1,800 independent businesses, the retailers reported that holiday sales rose an average of 2.2 percent. In cities with an active “Buy Local” or “Think Local First” campaign, average sales increased 3 percent. Maybe these “local-thinking” consumers were trying to help out the “little guy”.  Maybe one of those great eye-catching window displays or promotions brought them in. Whatever the reason, retailers are making that important connection with their neighbors and getting the sales. And most likely, they will also get some repeat business. 

And this just in — NRF reports that consumers say they expect to spend about 2 percent more on Easter this year. Some of that spending is bound to be in local retail shops. Given this trend, although small, it is more important than ever to get involved in your community. Join the local Chamber of Commerce or business groups. Take part in activities, such as neighborhood festivals and sidewalk sales. Advertise in the local newspaper; contact the publisher directly for the best rate. Sponsor a local kids’ sports team. Make your store inviting, user friendly. Open early one day a week so moms can shop after they take their children to school. Have some coloring books or other things on hand to entertain the kids as mom shops. If you see a lot of young professionals in the area, adjust your shop hours to allow them to shop after work. Offer services, like gift wrapping, much appreciated in this time-crunched world. All simple things, but they can connect you to your neighbors and make you “one of us”.

And here’s what we’ve gathered this month for you to offer your neighbors when they stop in. Ashley gives you a preview of the fresh designs and innovative products waiting at the upcoming National Stationery Show. Mary shows you a selection of gifts that today’s women will appreciate receiving. She will also give you information on the latest color trends. Ashley also takes a look at personalization, a trend that continues to grow, with more and more products being added. 

And speaking of growing, the pets category and gifts for them is more popular than ever, and Mary will report on what’s new. Old is new again with retro gifts. There’s something to appeal to all ages. I’ll bring you some gift ideas that can bring a sense of fun and excitement to your shop. And I’ll show you some great gifts under $25 you can offer your customers.

In addition, don’t forget to check out the latest edition of Gift, Gourmet, Décor Plus, our online magazine that can give you a variety of ideas and sources to help you plan your lifestyle shop. You can find it at www.ggdplus.com.

And there’s even more news.
Speaking of neighbors — starting this month and continuing through the rest of the year, we’re bringing you even more resources and ideas in print to help your shop be successful. Our sister publication, Home Fashion and Hospitality will be joining us six times a year. 

Just flip over our issue to find it and get the latest product trends, design ideas and show news aimed at the furniture and decor markets. It’s all there for you in one convenient package. And it’s another way we strive to bring you the freshest products, ideas and trend information to make your shop the go-to place. 

All the more reason to make Giftware News your “must-read” every month.

See you next month-
Barbara Wujcik
Editorial Coordinator