Bigger is not always better, and retailers across the board are beginning to realize that. In the latest edition of Retail Rap, I discuss the downsizing trend and how it is catching on with specialty shops as well as big-box stores. In past columns, I’ve spent time discussing how supermarkets and big-box retailers are successfully […]
Archives for 2011
O, Supermarkets
Mall supermarkets have been a trend in Canada for decades, but have failed to pick up in the states. In my latest edition of Retail Rap, I offer my views on why the trend hasn’t caught on here. What’s interesting to me is that mall supermarkets have been a reality in Canada for 40 or […]
The New Fall Shopping Guide
Retailers’ summer optimism makes for better sales after consumer confidence plunged. Quentin Fottrell / SmartMoney Recent market volatility and an uncertain economic outlook may be enough to make shoppers renew recession-era vows of frugality. They may get some help from a surprising place — retailers once again struggling to drum up sales. Most years, spending […]
Investors Show Faith in JC Penney, Barnes & Noble’s Future
Investors Show Faith in JC Penney, Barnes & Noble’s Future Elaine Misonzhnik / Retail Traffic …Both retailers have taken significant steps to improve their standing. Barnes & Noble’s Nook e-reader has been among the most popular e-readers available. In July, Consumer Reports declared the Nook Simple Touch Reader the best e-reader on the market, marking […]
Nobody’s Perfect
In my most recent Retail Rap column, I take a look back at some of the retail trends that I misjudged at the time. Success is great, but missteps can offer great learning experiences and keep me humble. It’s always satisfying to look back and enjoy your professional successes. While I see nothing wrong with […]
Tax-free weekend kicks off
Tax-free weekend kicks off David Kaplan / Houston Chronicle Cynthia DeLeon describes herself as “a smart shopper.” On her work break Friday she zipped through the Palais Royal at 4438 North Freeway, picking out back-to-school clothes for her daughter and grandson. She was taking advantage of the tax-free holiday, and she brought coupons. DeLeon, a Houston Community […]
