InStore_Fall 2022

inSpire. inForm

Speak Up!

here is strength in numbers and store owners need to begin speaking up about how they want to be treated and what their needs are. InStore is committed to being a vocal ally and advocate for store owners because heaven knows, you have enough to do.

Without you, vendors would not have products to sell and show producers would not have a raison d’être. Yet there were a lot of disgruntled buyers at the Toronto markets this past summer who felt out of the loop and stranded with no safe and convenient way to travel back and forth between the shows happening on the airport strip.

Hear about these experiences from buyers and store owners in the magazine’s newest column, Speak Up! (page 50), dedicated to voicing the opinions and concerns of independent store owners.

There is no organization that speaks to the needs of independent retailers in the gift and home décor industries. InStore is hoping to fill that void by being your advocate in addressing the challenges that you face. To that end, we encourage you to share your frustrations with us so we can shed light on the issues. Independent gift retailers don’t have a voice or any type of collective muscle they can flex to impact meaningful change – and change is definitely needed.

Buyers and store owners deserve to have their opinions heard and validated and Speak Up! is just part of our commitment to giving store owners a platform to educate the industry on their operational challenges and concerns. Tell us what keeps you up at night, how vendors can improve their service to you, what you need from our government, and whatever else is on your mind. Don’t be shy – speak up and email me directly at ekirkland@ instoremagazine.ca. I’m looking forward to hearing from you and sharing your thoughts with the industry.

Erica Kirkland Publisher & Editor

THE DEFINITIVE RESOURCE FOR INDEPENDENT LIFESTYLE RETAILERS

Editor & Publisher

Erica Kirkland ekirkland@instoremagazine.ca

TDesign & Layout Gerry Wiebe

Advertising & Production Coordinator Tina Nicholl tina@instoremagazine.ca

Advertising Inquiries ekirkland@instoremagazine.ca 905-690-0492

Editorial Submissions editorial@instoremagazine.ca Mailing Address: 103 Niska Drive Waterdown, ON L8B 0M8

Contributors

Castlerock Studios, Will Fournier, Andrea Hein, Leslie Groves, Nickeisha Lewis

InStore Magazine™ is published four times a year for independent retailers in Canada selling giftware, home décor, fashion accessories and lifestyle items. The magazine is mailed to 12,000 stores including gift, home décor, hardware, pharmacy and florist.

© 2022 InStore Magazine™. The contents of this publication are the property of InStore Magazine. Reproduction or use of the contents in whole or in part, for any reason, is strictly prohibited without the written consent of the copyright owner. The publisher is not responsible for product claims made by the companies mentioned herein.

Printed in Canada Publication mail #40841587. Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: InStore Magazine™, 103 Niska Drive, Waterdown ON L8B 0M8.

Email: editorial@instoremagazine.ca

Warm & Fuzzies

A cozy and calming product assortment which invites consumers to love themselves and their homes

1/ Candleholders, from $9 retail, Koppers Home, 866-604-0490, www.koppershome.com

2/ Eye pillow from Tag, $54.50 retail, Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca

3/ Printed socks made from baby alpaca blend, $30 retail, Pokoloko, 844-476-5656, www.pokoloko.com

4/ Scented 10-ounce soy candles, $24 retail each, The Copper Bell, www.thecopperbell.ca

5/ Sheep-skin cosmetic bag lined with waterproof interior, $34.50 retail, Lady Rosedale, 416-854-2948, www.ladyrosedale.ca

6/ Fisherman hat made with Peruvian alpaca, $50 retail, Pokoloko, 844-476-5656, www.pokoloko.com

7/ Hand embroidered ornament made from sheep’s wool, $23.75 retail, Pokoloko, 844-476-5656, www.pokoloko.com

Into the Mystic

Explore the alternative wellness movement by presenting customers with this on-trend assortment

1/ Luxury soap bars made in Manitoba, $15.47 retail each, Soak Bath Co., www.cksoakbathco.com

2/ Aura candle with crystals, $26 retail, Nostalgia Import Canada, 800-785-7855, www.nostalgia-import.com

3/ Tarot cards, $10.99 retail, Jabco, 877-381-5222, www.jabco.ca

4/ Bath Blaster with crystals from Bomb Cosmetics, $8 retail, Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca

5/ Mini soy wax gemstone candle, $20 retail, Little Lamb Lavender, 250-641-5842, www.littlelamblavender.ca

6/ Chamomile face and body mist, $24 retail; lavender, sage and neroli face oil, $28 retail; Little Lamb Lavender, 250-641-5842, www.littlelamblavender.ca

7/ Essential oil blends, from $9 retail each, Finesse Home, 866-787-5494, www.finessehome.com

Bejewelled

Our favourite new baubles and bling from Canadian suppliers

1/ Stainless steel bracelet, $12.50 retail, Portugal Imports, 866-317-0702, www.portugalimports.ca

2/ Lapis necklace, $27 retail, BEL Jewelry, 403-340-0742, www.beljewelry.com

3/ Layers rings, $19.95 retail, Axicon World Imports, 800-465-5587, www.axiconworld.com

4/ Alder wood earrings, $14.95 retail, Salt Air Collections, 902-476-7039, www.saltaircollections.com

5/ Morse code necklace from Demdaco, $30 retail, Canfloyd, 800-263-3551, www.canfloyd.com

6/ Gemstone bracelet with cross, $12.50 retail, Portugal Imports, 866-317-0702, www.portugalimports.ca

Candym Partners with Vera Bradley

Candym Enterprises recently announced a new partnership with Vera Bradley for the Canadian giftware market. The iconic American luggage and bag company was founded by Barbara Bradley Baekgaard and Patricia Miller in 1982. Beginning with cotton bags that featured distinctive floral, paisley and geometric prints inspired by French Provençal country fabrics, the line has expanded to include fashion, home accessories, gifts and shoes in best-selling solids, leather, quilted cottons and technical fabrics. 800-263-3551, www.candym.com

News & Notes

Inside Track

NEWS IN BRIEF

Portugal Imports Celebrates 50 Years in Business

In September, Portugal Imports hosted a party to celebrate its 50th anniversary in business. On hand were family, friends, sales reps, staff and customers. Leonor and Manuel Cardoso started the business in 1972 from the basement of their family home in London, Ont., after immigrating shortly before from Portugal. Over the years they grew the company into one of the largest Canadian distributors of religious items from U.S. manufacturers as well as the go-to resource for handcrafted gift, home décor, tabletop and food items from Portugal. Today the company is run by Leonor and her daughter Monica Oliveira. Pictured is Manual Cardoso at the Toronto gift show at the Canadian Exhibition Place in Toronto in 1986. 866-317-0702, www.portugalimports.ca

By Hand Joins Mode, Show T.O. for Toronto Market Week

Toronto Market Week recently announced the addition of the By Hand Gift Show to its collective show banner for the upcoming January 2023 market at the International Centre. The By Hand show has been in the Toronto market since 1980, focused on presenting retailers with handmade goods for wholesale.

“We are looking forward to collaborating with all the partners making up Toronto Market Week to create a dynamic buying experience for Canadian retailers,” said John Ladouceur, co-founder and president of By Hand Gift Show.

This marks the fourth show group to combine under one roof for Toronto Market Week, joining the Mode Show, the new Gift & Design Wholesale Market produced by Mode and the permanent showrooms who market under the umbrella of Show T.O.

“Adding By Hand Gift Show completes Toronto Market Week, making it a true destination for retailers to purchase for their stores,” says Tiffany Gin, a show manager with Newcom Media, producers of the Mode Show and the Gift & Design Wholesale Market. “Retailers can shop an impressive range of products effortlessly under one roof.” www.torontomarketweek.ca.

News & Notes

Inside Track

NEWS IN BRIEF

CanGift Appoints New

President & CEO

The Canadian Gift Association (CanGift) recently announced the hiring of Dwayne McKillop as the group’s new president and CEO. In this role, McKillop will work with the association’s board of directors in an effort to grow the membership base while placing particular emphasis on strengthening its trade shows in Toronto and Edmonton.

McKillop brings 25 plus years of experience to the position, including leadership roles in both the not-for-profit and for-profit environments, working on hundreds of national and global events, most recently running his own firm which produced large events in Southwestern Ontario.

“As we return to in-person events after a two and a half year absence, Dwayne is well equipped to lead the association forward,” said the association’s chair, Stan Flemming of The Tate Group. “His strong sales and negotiation skills, combined with his standards for exceptional customer service will serve the association well. Having run his own organization, he understands the entrepreneurial spirit, which is the backbone of the gift industry in Canada.” www.cangift.org

Retail Business for Sale

A well-established interior and garden décor business in Waterloo Ont., Not Just For The Garden, is available for purchase. After operating successfully for 23 years, the current owners wish to retire and sell their business which includes a brick-and-mortar location in addition to an established online retail website and a well-developed social media following. The 2600-square-foot store operates with a reasonable rent, low overhead and a loyal, local clientele. Ideal for someone with a strong interest in design. Lease expires in April of 2023 but the landlord is open to an earlier renewal. Looking for new owner to take over January 2023 and restock for the upcoming year at that time. The asking price of $75,000 includes all store fixtures, computer, marketing materials, leasehold improvements and website. Inventory to be assessed at time of purchase. Email serious inquiries only to Eleanor LaPorte at info@notjustforthegarden.ca.

Imports

sales@axiconworld.com 800-465-5587

News & Notes Inside Track

NEWS IN BRIEF

In Memory of Mark Halpern

On the evening of September 26, at the too-young age of 54, Mark Halpern passed away at home after a courageous battle with cancer, a battle which Mark never let define him. Mark adored his late wife Lynne and was a loving father to their children, Zachary and Zoe.

Ambitious and determined to succeed, from modest beginnings in a Pickering flea market while still in university, he built a successful chain of retail stores - Kitchen Stuff Plus. He was a retailer extraordinaire who thrived on the challenges of his business.

The family has asked those wishing to honor his memory to donate to Rethink Breast Cancer at the Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation.

Correction!

by Leslie Groves

Photography by Will Fournier

Adding Spice to Your Space

How Build a Swing for Your Store

By Andrea Hein

While you may not have an Instagram account, your customers do. They also have Facebook, TikTok, Snapchat and at the very least, a working camera on their phone. We live in a digital world where we communicate through images and videos. Have you ever gone shopping, even to the grocery store, found something that your friend or family member was looking for and sent them a quick photo to confirm that’s what they wanted? This is how we shop now which is why it’s important to have a photo-worthy space in your store that makes people want to share their experience with others.

SIESTA LOUNGE SWING

One of my design challenges this summer was to help create an inviting space with a great shareable aspect. I was asked by InStore to build a Mexicanthemed swing for the Siesta Buyer’s Lounge the magazine hosted at the Toronto Gift and Home Market in August. Many buyers who visited the space commented on how easy it would be for them to incorporate a swing in their store, so the magazine asked me to share step-by-step instructions with all their readers in this issue.

HOW TO CREATE A SWING

Backdrop

Our goal was to design a space that looked like an old, cobblestoned street in Mexico so we used one-foot by eight-foot pine panels to create the look of a wooden fence and painted it bright pink.

The Swing

The structure of the swing was the easiest part and since we had the luxury of space, we opted to make the swing eight-feet tall using pressure-treated lumber for the frame, enabling it to be used over and over again. To make the swing, we used a hammock rope kit weighted for up to 1200 pounds and a piece of sanded-down pine for the seat.

Alternate Uses

Keeping the style of the frame simple allows us to embellish the swing for other events in different themes. For the buyers’ lounge, the frame was dressed up with giant foam flowers from Green Imports and faux cacti from MacLaw

Flooring

Recreating the look of a cobblestone street required we first build a base as the room was carpeted. For the base, we used two sheets of Masonite from Home Depot and applied a few rolls of stone-printed adhesive vinyl purchased through Amazon for approximately $50 a roll.

Shortly after the swing was dismantled in August, my company received a request for the swing at an event in London, Ont., called Sink the Stigma. Seeing as the event was hosted at a mini golf course we swapped out the painted pine for a sheet of AstroTurf. We kept the wooden frame of the swing undecorated because the look worked with the picnic tables and outdoor vibe of the event. A white sign with the event logo and name was eye catching and stood out against the guest’s pictures.

The décor possibilities with a piece like this are endless. It doesn’t always have to be used as a photo op area. You could also easily use it to display products and add interest to a window display. No matter what you use it for, creating something like this in your store provides your customers with a shareable photo op and helps to create interest every time you switch it up.

Andrea Hein is the coordinator of Conestoga College’s Visual Merchandising Program as well as the owner of Andrea Hein Occasions which specialises in custom décor for various sports clients including the Buffalo Bills. Andrea began her career at Walt Disney World and has worked for both boutique and big-box stores. (andreaheinoccasions.com).

by Leslie Groves

Photography by Will Fournier

All

All a Flutter

1/ Butterfly wall art, $85 retail, Koppers Home, 866-604-0490, www.koppershome.com

2/ Benaya glass candle holders, $15 retail, Worldwide Home Imports, 905-339-9380, www.benayaart.com

3/ Ladies’ socks from Memoi, $14 retail, Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca

4/ Butterfly mirror, 18-inches by 18-inches, $180 retail, Canfloyd, 800-263-3551, www.canfloyd.com

5/ Set of LED butterflies, $50 retail, Koppers Home, 866-604-0490, www.koppershome.com

6/ Butterflies on birch cushion, $44.99 retail, Lady Rosedale, 416-854-2948, www.ladyrosedale.ca

7/ Butterfly wall décor from Nutcracker Designs, $83 retail, Canfloyd, 800-263-3551, www.canfloyd.com

8/ Bento box from Rex London, $18 retail, Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca

9/ Journal from Compendium, $14 retail, Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca

10/ Butterfly wall décor set, $73.50 retail, Canfloyd, 800-263-3551, www.canfloyd.com

11/ Dragonfly ornament, $12.50 retail, Salt Air Collections, 902-476-7039, www.saltaircollections.com

12/ Stemless wine glass from Tag, $17.50 retail, Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca

13/ Velvet-feel cushion, from $49.99 retail, Lady Rosedale, 416-854-2948, www.ladyrosedale.ca

14/ Mazie Mae earrings, $19.95 retail, Axicon World Imports, 800-465-5587, www.axiconworld.com

15/ Butterfly steppingstone, $30 retail, Koppers Home, 866-604-0490, www.koppershome.com

16/ Votive with relief leaf pattern, $45 retail, Indaba Trading, 800-746-3222, www.indabatrading.com

17/ Round 11-inch butterfly plate, $50 retail, Canfloyd, 800-263-3551, www.canfloyd.com

18/ Bamboo salad bowl, $11.50 retail; servers, $5.50 retail, Koppers Home, 866-604-0490, www.koppershome.com

Spring

Soirées

Signal

Styling by Leslie Groves Photography by Will Fournier

Spring Soirées

1/ Sugar cube sampler from Good Citizen, $41 retail, Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca

2/ Swedish sponge cloth, $6.50 retail, Ecologie by Danica, 888-632-6422, www.danicabrands.com

3/ Maxwell & Williams Dune platter, $44.99 retail, Canfloyd, 800-263-3551, www.canfloyd.com

4/ Wooden cutting board, $40 retail, Nostalgia Import Canada, 800-785-7855, www.nostalgia-import.com

5/ Cocktail napkins, $15 retail, Danica Jubilee, 888-632-6422, www.danicabrands.com

6/ Demdaco serving bowl set, $68.50 retail, Canfloyd, 800-263-3551, www.canfloyd.com

7/ Nesting mugs, $36 retail for set of four, Now Designs by Danica, 888-632-6422, www.danicabrands.com

Trends Shaping the Retail World Post Pandemic

BY ERICA KIRKLAND

From recessions and depressions to rebuilds and renaissances, there have been some interesting periods in the storied history of retail, yet today’s confluence of market, political and economic turmoil is not something your ancestors likely faced.

However, independent gift retailers are well positioned to respond to this unique set of market challenges, but in order to do so, they must have a solid understanding of the trends impacting their businesses.

It’s crucial to adapt to external changes. Oftentimes this relates to a new way of doing business or technology, but it can also be about your mindset. If you refuse to adapt, you will lose market share. But if you remain nimble, and adjust to what shoppers need and want, you will sustain your business through these disruptions. Knowing what your customers want requires collecting data and making informed decisions – not just gut reactions. To help you learn and adapt to what your shoppers need, we’ve broken the trends shaping the retail world post pandemic into six bite-sized sections.

THE ECONOMY AS AN OPPORTUNITY

Inflation will profoundly affect consumer behaviour this year just as it did when Covid was at its height and consumers were afraid to shop. But the good news is, unlike the pandemic, retailers have experienced inflationary times before and know what to expect. Before you panic - and make assumptions, see how your shoppers are adapting to these new challenges. Low-income consumers are particularly impacted by price hikes because they spend a disproportionate percentage on essentials like food and gas. But more affluent customers are enjoying many of the luxuries they did before. Although their real estate and equity assets have lost some value, their disposable income remains high. Independent store owners must target a more inflation-protected shopper with a higher and more disposable income as it’s foolhardy to compete on price with the economies of scale afforded to mass merchants.

There are still plenty of people interested in buying if they receive the right emotional and style motivation. Case in point is Ralph Lauren which is targeting sales growth over the next three

years, aiming to pick up new customers while continuing to raise prices. CEO Patrice Louvet told BNN Bloomberg in a recent interview that Canada and the U.S. in particular represent a growth opportunity that investors may be underestimating. Ralph Lauren is looking to cultivate younger customers, who Louvet credits with helping to push online sales to 26 percent of revenue. He expects that figure to reach about 33 percent in the next several years. In addition, the company is targeting average price increases in the mid-singledigit range over the next several years.

THERE’S GOOD NEWS!

Retail sales were up nine percent yearover-year for the three-month period ending February 2022, according to StatsCan, which, by historical standards, is a healthy gain.

While the differences in various retail sectors are extreme, the good news for our industry is that clothing and clothing accessories were the runaway bestsellers with sales up a sizzling 40 percent yearover-year. General merchandise, furniture and home furnishings stores, along with the “other stores” group, also clocked double-digit gains.

Sustain your business through today’s new-normal by knowing what your customers want and celebrating your role in bringing joy to the world

What retailers need to worry about now is how to increase the intimacy they have with their customers. As customers become more discerning due to increased prices, customer service and the “customer experience” will become even more important. Ensure that you’re valuing your customer’s time and addressing their needs as all of this factors into whether a customer trusts and values the interactions they have in your store. To remain relevant and drive customer loyalty, independents need to understand the growing range of consumer needs, eliminate pain points and quickly respond with the right offerings at the right price.

E-COMMERCE

IS LOSING LUSTRE

Buoyed by bets on the public’s reluctance to shop in physical stores during the pandemic, e-commerce stocks maintained high values over the past two years. But, as consumers gradually return to old habits, analysts are cautioning that the online traffic growth seen during the pandemic may not prove sustainable.

When Amazon released its quarterly numbers this past spring, the stock market was rattled – as the company’s online sales had declined by three percent, practically unheard of in the history of the Seattle-based company. There are a lot of moving pieces to analyze, but ultimately what this decline

signalled to many is that the days of monster e-commerce gains are over.

SUPPLY CHAIN ISSUES PERSIST

While we all hoped the worldwide shipping fiasco would have sorted itself out by now, shipping challenges will continue into the foreseeable future. Data from Project 44, which tracks global supply chains, showed that shipment delays between China and major U.S. and European ports have quadrupled since late March when China shutdown Shanghai – the world’s busiest container port – due to a Covid outbreak. Additionally, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has added volatility to transportation costs.

The strategies companies have used to compensate for the shortage of shipping containers and backlogs at ports have just created other issues, turning the whole situation into a game of whack-a-mole. When you take a step back and truly think about it, the systems out there weren’t designed for disruption on the scale of Covid.

THE POWER OF ENTREPRENEURS

The continued meltdown of global supply chains has given retailers an opportunity to reassess their sourcing strategies. As an independent retailer you have a leg up on the majors as you don’t need to order as much inventory nor do you have to order as far in advance of a season. You can place smaller orders with multiple vendors.

If you haven’t already, you can begin sourcing from cash and carry markets to eliminate shipping costs, source local handmade products and order smaller amounts from a variety of wholesalers. Also consider stocking products which are less expensive to ship – like home textiles – but which have a maximum impact and can garner a higher margin.

Though consumers may not be looking to replace their sofa or dining table anytime soon, a fresh set of placemats, a new table runner, cute cushions and fresh wall art are easy and inexpensive ways you can help them decorate and celebrate themselves this year.

CONSUMER AND PRODUCT TRENDS

Home Cooking

A new passion for cooking at home developed during the pandemic when we couldn’t leave our houses, and now because of high grocery prices, consumers are sticking to cooking at home, supporting local growers and farmer’s markets, which is a bonus for stores located nearby or those who take out booths to advertise their stores to these customers who are obviously interested in purchasing local. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, in 1994 there were 1755 urban markets where farmers sold directly to consumers. By 2019, there were close to 8771.

Global Culture - Locally Shoppers support businesses close to home even as they see the whole world as their culture and culinary marketplace. According to Facebook research, 58 percent of consumers worldwide say they try to shop local even when it’s more expensive, and 62 percent consider themselves a global citizen, a broad term that refers to awareness, affinity and/ or engagement with worldwide events, products and culture. Social media helps create borderless cultures as most users today follow accounts by topic without regard to country borders. Consumers are seeking items inspired by global cultures which are made or sourced locally, including food, furniture and clothing. They are also turning away from throw-away culture and into a mindset of ‘reuse and repurpose’ as they recognize the footprints they leave behind impact the entire world. Secondhand clothes shopping is the trend du jour among the most aware and hip consumers.

Gender Neutrality

According to the Gen Z Fashion Report by Unidays, which was a survey informed by a panel of 4000 Gen Z students across the U.K., U.S. and Australia, 87 percent of Gen Zs believe strongly that there should be better gender equality and inclusion within fashion yet 61 percent say the mainstream fashion industry overlooks minority groups, including non-binary

and trans people. The survey clearly illustrates that we can all be doing more in our marketing and advertising campaigns to better portray such representation.

Despite the strong influence that price holds over this demographic, the findings of this study show that Gen Z are hyperinformed and switched on when it comes to identifying which brands they consider inclusive and representative. By expanding your focus on representation and communicating authentically with your audience, you will succeed in driving affinity with this highly influential generation. But be careful because if you get it wrong you’ll be accused - rightly –of being tokenistic.

The New Look of Love

Love continues to grow and permeate, leading to new forms of connections, much of it driven by the Millennial mindset shift which places higher expectations on love and connectedness. Did you know that #LoveConquersAll is the most used hashtag on Instagram?

There’s a quiet sexual revolution being led by non-traditional leaders that will evolve over the next few years and lead some to rethink societal boundaries. People continue to demand that media and advertising be inclusive, representative and real. Brands in sectors such as beauty and fashion may lead the way by launching campaigns that celebrate nontraditional standards, but the opportunity to show your audience you really see them has relevance that transcends industry.

Historical Reckoning

All around the world, people and cultures have struggled to come to terms with unfair and cruel pasts. Canadians too are coming to terms with our past in hopes of building a more inclusive tomorrow. Many people are seeking to have meaningful conversations about these painful issues, honing their racial literacy as they come to realise ally is a verb. This rising historical identity connection is especially pronounced among younger generations in countries, like Canada, where colonialism marginalised local cultures. Rise to your consumer’s expectations by leading with meaningful actions, followed by purposeful statements.

Activism

People find joy in their identity – from bisexual pride to cultural heritage. Society is inclusive these days and store owners need to be too. Champion inclusivity in your store and within your brand values. Stay curious: Talk to people whose experiences can expand your own perspective. Partner with people in the communities you want to represent to ensure you’re being authentic.

Change starts with us. How will you cultivate a radically inclusive culture at work today? According to a 2019 study from Accenture, 52 percent of Canadian consumers expect the companies they shop with to take a stand on the social, cultural, environmental and political issues close to their hearts. Your store should communicate what it stands for and its purpose. You don’t have to sell sustainable products or have a charitable component to create a purposeful identity.

Wellness

People are increasingly striving to nurture their whole selves with many reporting mental health surpassing physical health in its importance to total wellness. Most of this change came from the extreme stresses brought on by the pandemic as consumers reassessed and reprioritized what mattered most to them. As mental health is more openly discussed, conversations about self-reflection, self-love and mindfulness increase.

This desire for ultimate wellness has led to people embracing new omnidirectional fitness motivation strategies (e.g., working out in VR), non-traditional healthcare, an embrace of natural ingredients (and nature itself) as well as a desire to giveback through fundraising or being a volunteer. Alternative wellness approaches such as botanicals, acupuncture, meditation, energy healing, nature therapy and yoga are also skyrocketing.

Getting Back to Nature

As the pandemic becomes a less important motivator of consumer behaviour, anything can happen in the nature industries of camping, hiking,

birding etc., but with so many new consumers having tried and enjoyed these activities and with the nature of the activities being in line with consumer interests these days, it seems likely there is still growth potential here, albeit slower than in previous years.

Local Love

According to a recent survey from Constant Contact, 94 percent of consumers feel small businesses impact their lives, and 70 percent plan to support them regardless of what happens with inflation.

The reality is small businesses feed our communities, take care of our children, renovate our homes, and keep us healthy. Small businesses power our lives, make us feel good and give our communities their unique personalities. If small businesses did not exist, our lives would be noticeably harder and much less interesting. When we celebrate our contributions to our communities as small businesses, we underscore our importance. We also need to remember that our assets as business owners are not inventory but our deeply loyal customers.

The Opportunity is Yours for the Taking

Do you try to approach each day with a smile, grace and kindness? If so, chances are you’re soaring above your fellow store owners who are quick to throw up their hands in defeat, lamenting there’s nothing they could possibly do to improve their store sales and traffic. But there is always something store owners can do – if they want.

Inflation is an outside force we can’t control. But what we can control is the way in which we choose to help customers celebrate the birthdays, births, graduations, holidays and anniversaries that happen every year regardless of the economy.

Our industry offers the world the products they need to show loved ones they are cared for and products which bring joy and beauty to a world that needs so much more joy and beauty. Celebrate your role in bringing that joy to the world.

&

the

Styling by Leslie Groves Photography by Will Fournier

Home Goods

1/ Bud vase, $26 retail, Candym Enterprises, 800-263-3551, www.candym.com

2/ Lumbar pillow, $60 retail, Koppers Home, 866-604-0490, www.koppershome.com

3/ Doodle bathmat, $35 retail, Danica Jubilee, 888-632-6422, www.danicabrands.com

4/ Candleholder, $16 retail, Nostalgia Import Canada, 800-785-7855, www.nostalgia-import.com

5/ Wall pennant, $46 retail, Nostalgia Import Canada, 800-785-7855, www.nostalgia-import.com

6/ Spring solstice wreath, $140 retail, Indaba Trading, 800-746-3222, www.indabatrading.com

7/ Outdoor pillow, $45 retail, Koppers Home, 866-604-0490, www.koppershome.com

8/ Queensland woven carpet, from $198 retail for two-foot by sevenfoot runner, North American Country Home, 888-303-2221, www.northamericancountryhome.com

Home Goods

COASTAL CHARM

1/ Pulse cups, $30 retail for four, Danica Heirloom, 888-632-6422, www.danicabrands.com

2/ LED hanging lamp, $120 retail, Candym Enterprises, 800-263-3551, www.candym.com

3/ Natural trays, $80 retail for two, Harman Imports, 800-363-7608, www.harmaninc.com

4/ Natural pillow with embossed flowers, $77 retail, Candym Enterprises, 800-263-3551, www.candym.com

5/ Turkish towel, $55 retail, 905-906-1104, Pomp & Sass, www.pompandsass.ca

6/ Candle holders, $65 retail for set of two, Harman Imports, 800-363-7608, www.harmaninc.com

7/ Rockport pillow, $90 retail, Indaba Trading, 800-746-3222, www.indabatrading.com

Home Goods

RUSTIC &

1/ Watering can, $30 retail, Nostalgia Import Canada, 800-785-7855, www.nostalgia-import.com

2/ Round wooden wall clock, from $440 for three-foot version, North American Country Home, 888-303-2221, www.northamericancountryhome.com

3/ Cushion cover, $99 retail, Klippan, 613-858-0655, www.kidinme.com

4/ Bud vases from Nutcracker Designs, $8 to $17 retail, Candym Enterprises, 800-263-3551, www.candym.com

5/ Cushion cover, $30 retail, Harman Imports, 800-363-7608, www.harmaninc.com

6/ Knitted cotton cushion cover, $75 retail, North American Country Home, 888-303-2221, www.northamericancountryhome.com

7/ Pot, $19 retail, Nostalgia Import Canada, 800-785-7855, www.nostalgia-import.com

Get Your Displays Ready for the Season

How to plan your displays, attract more customers and increase your sales

By Nickeisha Lewis

Your store’s windows are the first point of contact potential customers have with your business. They let your potential customer know what to expect inside your store and inspire them to enter – or not. If you aren’t already, you should be paying attention to this very important piece of retail real estate, taking the time to carefully plan the needs of all your window presentations. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you create window displays your customers will certainly fall for.

FRESH DÉCOR

To easily transition displays between seasons, add décor and props. For fall, colourful faux leaves, tree stumps, pumpkins and pinecones are great while faux snow, ornaments, evergreen boughs, ribbons and lights convey a seasonal message. The point is, you don’t need to change your entire window or the products featured in it – just switch it up and add some seasonal details and colours.

When you align your displays, props and décor with a season, it jolts customers into visualizing how they can utilize the items you’re showcasing, which leads to them making a purchase.

To make a statement and create impact which attracts passersby, make your windows bold and whimsical. Think of a theme that inspires you and using seasonal materials or oversized objects create a fun eye-catching window. Soon you’ll notice people staring and even taking photos of your gorgeous displays.

DISPLAYING PRODUCT

Your window is prime retail real estate so ensure the products you place here are ones that will compel passersby to enter the store. Avoid over crowding as too much merchandise and a cluttered display is confusing to consumers and may lead to them losing interest in your store. Aim for a wellbalanced display by keeping it simple.

To effectively capture the attention of passersby, your focal point should be a feature product styled with a decorative object, signage or a poster that speaks to the season. Remember to crossmerchandise products to increase sales.

REFRESH BI-WEEKLY OR MONTHLY

Yes, you read the title right! The outside of your store is important, so you need to refresh your windows often to keep consumers interested in what you sell. Customers lose interest when a display is left as-is for too long especially if you live in a small town or community where customers walk or drive by your store frequently. A refreshed display indicates to shoppers that new products and goods are available in your store. This in turn

encourages repeat visits, loyal customers and increased sales.

I suggest you pre-plan your display ideas at the beginning of each season so your ideas are fun, fresh and inspired. Keeping your store updated on a bi-weekly or monthly basis will help create a better experience for your customers and will definitely intrigue loyal customers to come back again and again.

Offering an amazing customer experience is very important for your store’s success. That’s why when the seasons are changing I always suggest to clients

that they switch things up in their store. Whether you review your visual merchandising strategy or add pieces of décor to create a themed window display, help your customer feel like your space is always changing so they need to keep coming back for more.

Nickeisha Lewis is the founder of Nola Designs, a retail interior design firm based out of Kitchener, Ont. Nickeisha and her team focus on helping female-owned businesses take their retail stores to the next level. www.noladesigns.ca

inSpire. inForm. inStore.

Store Owners Speak Up!

STORE OWNERS SPEAK UP!

BE HONEST & UPFRONT

If show services are being limited, if a vendor is selling direct-to-consumer or through discounted channels –just be upfront about it! Trying to involve us in behindthe-scenes politics and pretending that every decision made is with the independent retailer in mind, when it truly isn’t, doesn’t built the trust needed to maintain confident, long-term relationships with vendors and show operators.

Angelica Fehr, Twisted Goods , SK, AB

CONFUSING & COSTLY

I’ve always enjoyed the ability to use the shuttle buses to go between the International Centre and the Congress Centres. It was very confusing and unclear that this would not be the case in August. Shuttles were only going to the Congress Centre from my hotel, so I had no choice but to cab it to the International Centre and absorb the added costs. I heard many other buyers remarking on the same thing and that was a negative for sure.

Theresa Kenney, Savvy, ON COME TOGETHER

It would be better for buyers if the shows could get along in terms of transportation from one show to the other. I usually travel to multiple shows while I’m there (in Toronto) in January. I see the changes as an opportunity to invite in more Canadian companies with Canadian-made products. Buyers want to have as many options as possible to make their stores unique and creative.

Kelly Jones , The Rooms, NF

MAKE IT EASY FOR BUYERS

Of course there should be shuttles between the shows, especially in January when the weather can be dicey. One year it took 45 minutes to get from the International Centre to the Congress Centre because of

a snowstorm and I was certainly happy to be on a bus with a professional driver. It’s unfortunate that members have left the CanGift show, but as a buyer it shouldn’t be made my problem. Both groups should be doing whatever they can to make it easy for buyers.

Josie Myles, Josie’s Fashions, Symon Says, ON COLLABORATION REQUIRED

The CanGift show has lost some of its value over the past few years. I remember a time when it occupied most of three facilities and now it doesn’t even fill one. I don’t know if that’s because the show has lost its appeal or whether it’s a sign of the times and a changing retail landscape, but now I search for buying opportunities outside the show.

In a perfect world, I would love to see a new relationship built. Perhaps the association could have an ‘associate member’ class for vendors that have permanent spaces but which still want to be included in the Toronto Gift & Home Market. I don’t know what the answer is, but I as a small retailer, I don’t have the budget to attend multiple shows or, even worse, have my vendors insist that I visit their showrooms by appointment. That would be exhausting and would eliminate a great opportunity to discover new product lines. There must be a compromise somewhere.

Karianne Copeland, Graffiti Art & Windswept Northern Lifestyle, ON

AVOIDING MARKETS

I used to attend (the Toronto shows) to buy from the anchor vendors, and find new, upcoming mom-andpop Canadian makers, however the price of exhibiting has removed them for the most part. I’m now looking online to find smaller companies in Canada and overseas and I’m not alone in this mentality. There is a shift in the customer mind and in the store owner’s world, so thank you for reaching out to help us!

Sue Griffiths, Stone Home Creatives, ON

Drop us a line and help make the industry a more collaborative entity which respects the needs of the retail buyer! Email our editor, Erica Kirkland, at ekirkland@instoremagazine.ca to share your opinions in InStore, read by 12,000 industry leaders four times a year.