Recent Articles from Andy Black
Negative Grades 2.0
You might wonder why the designator “2.0” appears in this article’s title. That’s because I wrote on this subject in July 2014, and I wanted to do an update. Much has changed since that 2014 article. As part of our vendor service, my colleagues and I visit a variety of aquatic and reptile retailers. When […]
Four Essential Buying Questions
What motivates customers to purchase the products you are selling? The answer to this question is simple: they will buy anything if they perceive the product to have personal value. Consider in-store signage and even social media to explain why people or their pets need a particular product. Successful merchandising is nothing more than telling […]
Customer Service that Matters
No matter your competitive prices and product selection, you will be no better than hundreds of other retailers competing for the same customers if you lack customer service skills. According to a 2014 study by NewVoiceMedia, an estimated $41 billion is lost by U.S. companies each year due to poor customer service. Have you ever […]
The Many Paths to the Customer
Even if you don’t embrace the concept of multi-channel branding, it’s coming whether we like it or not. Successful businesses will adapt to a changing marketplace. If you haven’t heard of multi-channel branding, it’s a business model that uses a variety of channels to enhance the end consumer’s shopping experience, including those who research before […]
Building Customer Loyalty
How we treat our customers directly relates to our business’s success. If we listen to our customers, respond to their needs and live up to their expectations, we have created an environment where customer loyalty will thrive. What do I mean by “listening” to a customer? There is the obvious: a customer walks into your […]
Brick and Mortar Retailing in the Internet Age
Brick and mortar stores have advantages that the virtual world can’t match: opportunities for shoppers to touch, see and size up the goods and to walk away with a purchase. I know that many store owners think that customers come in to see products and pick their brains for information and then go home and […]
Make a Splash with Ponds
Signage, advertising can make you a player in the pond category.
Following the MAP
Minimum advertised price policies and why the aquatic segment needs them.
Stealth Marketing via Social Media
People don’t like to be sold; if they did, they’d spend all their free time in car dealerships.
Understanding Millennials
Millennials are leading a change in consumer shopping habits.
Increase Your Sales with Signs
Educate your customers and increase your sales at the same time.
Creating an Events Calendar
Planning ahead will pay dividends throughout the year.