SPRING 2019
THE DEFINITIVE RESOURCE FOR INDEPENDENT LIFESTYLE RETAILERS
instoremagazine.ca
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Areaware Little Puzzle Thing
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Skeem Design Citronella Candles
Maskeraide Sweet Retreat
The Hate Stains Co. Miss Mouths’ Messy Eater Stain Treater
(416) 504-8047 www.thetategroup.com Online Ordering: thetategroup.handshake.com Toronto Gift Fair New Booth# 2920 Bike Balls Bike Light
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contents
inStore VOL. 05/NO. 03
THIS ISSUE
Spring 2019
35
inForm DEPARTMENTS
inStock
18
DEPARTMENTS
9 Canada Eh? The world needs more Canadian things! 11 Tasting Menu Gourmet goodies for gift shops 13 Tiny Treasures Simple and stylish jewellery finds FEATURES
29 Wanderlust
A round-up of travel must-haves
35 Gather
A round-up of products for the kitchen and table
39 Home Goods
Accessories for a well-dressed home
43 Pretty Picks
inStyle
inSight
FEATURES
DEPARTMENTS
51 Season’s Greetings
6 Hello! Spring Fresh
Tops trends for the holidays
14 News & Notes New lines, launches, industry goings-on and upcoming trade shows 60 CanGift Connects Spring Has Sprung FEATURES
18 Shop Profile Le Magasin Général in the heart of Montreal is full of wonder and old-world charm 59 Repositioning Your Business Simple strategies to survive 2019
24 Pop-Up Shops
The ins and outs of opening and running a temporary pop-up shop By Andrea Hein
Our favourite new candles and personal care items www.instoremagazine.ca
inStore. Spring 2019
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RETAILERS
inSpire. inForm
THE DEFINITIVE RESOURCE FOR INDEPENDENT LIFESTYLE RETAILERS
Editor & Publisher Erica Kirkland ekirkland@instoremagazine.ca Design & Layout Gerry Wiebe Contributing Editors Barbara Crowhurst, Leslie Groves Advertising Inquiries ekirkland@instoremagazine.ca 905-690-0492
Let 2019 be your
Retail Repositioning Year. Merging an on-line store with your bricks and mortar. Embracing technology to drive retail analytics. Marketing effectively using the right platforms. Increasing sales.Increasing foot traffic. Creating a retail service culture that can sell.
Invest in the Future of your Business, Hire The Services of Retail Makeover!
Retail Business Coaching & Training Retail Staff Sales Training Retail Store Design Retail Website Creation & Implementation We will help you reach your full potential . Guaranteed!
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Editorial Submissions editorial@instoremagazine.ca Mailing Address: 103 Niska Drive Waterdown, ON L8B 0M8 Contributors Barbara Crowhurst, Castlerock Studios, Will Fournier, Leslie Groves, Andrea Hein, Andrea Reynolds 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 decor, hardware, pharmacy and florist. © 2019 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
inSpire. inForm. inStore.
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my fav...
inSight Hello
Spring Fresh Just as the grass is turning green and the bulbs are blooming, our thoughts turn to the fall and winter selling season. What trends will be hot for the holidays? What colours are trending for the home? The answer to these questions – and more – lies in the pages of this issue. In Season’s Greetings (page 51) we give you a sneak peek into the top trends for Christmas while Home Goods (page 39) highlights two hot looks for the home. We have plenty of other drool-worthy product stories we hope will inspire you to turn over a few new leaves. When it comes to the nuts and bolts of running a retail store, our resident business coach and retail expert Barbara Crowhurst expounds on ways that independent retailers can survive and thrive this year, while Andrea Hein, the coordinator of Conestoga’s visual merchandising program, gives us the run down on how and why you should consider opening a pop-up shop during the fourth quarter. If you’re taking longer than normal to awake from your winter slumber, check out our feature on Le Magasin Général, a stunning shop in the heart of Old Montreal, for some inspiration and insight. Happy planning!
When we put the call out to suppliers for their latest and greatest travel musthaves, they answered the call and we pulled together three super sweet selections of travel accessories (starting on page 29). With a grouping for the happy adventurer, the laid-back jet setter and the pretty, yet practical traveller, there’s surely a style to suit your customers.
Erica Kirkland Publisher & Editor
in this issue This issue is particularly product heavy with features on five unique product categories: seasonal decorating, travel accessories, personal care, entertaining and home décor. Personal care and 6
inStore. Spring 2019
travel accessories typically don’t warrant full features, but there were so many great new products sent into the publication for these categories, we decided to break with tradition and showcase as many as
we could. In Wanderlust (starting on page 29), we highlight hot travel must-haves. If you haven’t already bought Turkish towels from Pokoloko and other suppliers, you definitely want to check these out. Also referred to
as “foutas” these are the ultimate all-in-one item, functioning as an oversized scarf, beach towel, table cloth and throw. inSpire. inForm. inStore.
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Canada Eh!
inStock What We’re Loving 1
The world needs more Canada
2 1/ Canadian wildlife tea towel, $10 retail, Abbott, 800-263-2955, www.abbottcollection.com 2/ Canadian-made cushion, $56.99 retail, Lady Rosedale, 519-754-1799, www.ladyrosedale.com 3/ Buffalo check tray, $50 retail, Abbott, 800-263-2955, www.abbottcollection.com
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4/ Travel mug, $15 retail, Frans Koppers Imports, 866-604-0490, www.fkimports.com 5/ Mug, $7 retail, Frans Koppers Imports, 866-604-0490, www.fkimports.com 6/ Made in Canada mini art block from Cedar Mountain Studios, $25 retail, David Youngson & Associates, 800-370-4857, www.youngson.com
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Save the Date August 11-14, 2019 Exclusively at the Toronto Congress Centre
PRODUCED BY
To register visit togifthomemarket.ca
inStock
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What We’re Loving
Tasting Menu Gourmet goodies for gift shops
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1/ All natural syrup made from Israeli dates, $7.95 retail, Fruit of the Land, www.fruitoftheland.com 2/ Orange Crate single-serve cupcake mix, $6 retail each, Premier Gift Canada, 800-387-1282, www.premier-gift.com 3/ Orange Crate seasonings, $15 retail each, Premier Gift Canada, 800-387-1282, www.premier-gift.com
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4/ Alcohol infusion blends, $14 each, The Tate Group, 416-504-8047, www.thetategroup.com 5/ Tishbi Wine & Fruit Preserve, $8.95 retail, Fruit of the Land, www.fruitoftheland.com
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Formerly Alberta Gift Fair
Save the Date August 25-28, 2019 Edmonton Expo Centre
PRODUCED BY
To register visit abgifthomemarket.ca
Tiny Treasures
inStock What We’re Loving
Simple and stylish jewellery finds
1
1/ Diffuser bracelet, $20 retail, BEL Jewelry, 403-340-0742, www.beljewelry.com
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2/ Lava-bead necklace, $25 retail, BEL Jewelry, 403-340-0742, www.beljewelry.com 3/ Stainless steel necklace, $9.99 retail, K.C. Brewer & Co., www.kcbrewerco.ca
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4/ Palm-leaf earrings, $30 retail, Foxy Originals, 416-439-0887, www.foxyoriginals.com 5/ Earrings, $15 retail, BEL Jewelry, 403-340-0742, www.beljewelry.com 6/ Message necklace, $29.95 retail, Axicon World Imports, 800-4655587, www.axiconworld.com
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inForm News & Notes
News & Notes THE GOODS
Silly Slippers The best-selling slipper line Snoozies has expanded its original art offerings in the popular Simply Pairables line. Each pair of the slippers features a Sherpa-lining with a non-skid sole. Plus the items are machine washable and retail for under $20. 252-650-7000, www.snoozies.com
The Vanilla Effect
The newest fragrance collection from Barefoot Venus, The Vanilla Effect, features mythical notes of jasmine and lily of the valley along with true vanilla. Available in a wide variety of products, from body oils and cleansing washes to hand cream and bubble bath, the items retail from $4.50 to $21 each. 888-490-1756, www.barefootvenus.com
Gardener’s Collection Nature’s Essential Garden has expanded its Gardener’s collection of Canadianmade personal care items to include an outdoor spray, hand cream, hand soap and a hand and foot butter. The outdoor spray uses a combination of essential oils housed within a rugged 120ml aluminum bottle to ward off pesky mosquitoes while the hand cream combines lavender and peppermint essential oils with shea butter and olive oil to nourish rough, dry hands. The items retail from $5.99 to $17.99. 877-445-0292, www.naturesessentialgarden.ca
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inForm News & Notes
Pretty Pottery Popular Saskatchewan potter Susan Robertson has expanded her collection of handmade pieces to include items adorned with iconic Canadian critters including foxes, beavers, chipmunks and squirrels. Available in a variety of shapes and sizes, from nut bowls and teabag holders to plates and platters, the items retail from $7 to $28. 306-867-8011, www.srobertsonpottery.com
Santa IS Canadian Designs by BC artist, Dave Francis
Keep Warm with Canadian Brand Pudus Sherpa-lined socks from Canadian company Pudus has been an Oprah favourite two years in a row. The company has expanded the super-comfy collection to include Sherpalined snoods and cable-knit hats. The one-size-fits-all snood is a combined neck and face warmer which is lightweight and available in bright and bold colours with a chenille finish. The warm and fuzzy cable-knit hats are lined with fluffy faux fur and topped with a distinctive pom-pom. Both items retail for $39.99. 855-377-3425, www.ilovemypudus.com
CORRECTION In the Winter 2019 issue of InStore, the supplier of the straws pictured on page 95 was incorrectly identified. The correct supplier for the reusables straws is Kidcentral Supply. 877-218-0395, www.kidcentral.ca
www.instoremagazine.ca
See the exclusive collection at www.christmas-tradition.com Call us at: 1-800-561-5515
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inForm News & Notes
Inside Track NEWS IN BRIEF
Premier Gift is Back Premier Gift has restructured and is back in business under the name Premier Gift Canada (PGC). The company has moved from its original location in Mississauga to Bristol Circle in Oakville. The company is continuing to manufacture and distribute Orange Crate Gourmet Food Company as well as distribute several lines including: La Rochere glassware, Springbok Puzzles, Colonial Candles, Amanda Blu, The Delafield Calendar Company, Tripar International, Boston Warehouse, Leeber Limited and Dommo napkins. “We have some exciting things headed our way this year and we are excited to share them with all of you,” said Randy Cook, president of PGC. “It’s amazing how supportive some customers have been through this process and we wholeheartedly appreciate it. In tough times, we all need to stick together to continue to thrive in this business and be profitable.” 800-387-1282, www.premier-gift.com
Show Calendar MAY Trader’s Forum Toronto May 5 – 7, 2019 www.tradersforum.ca JULY The Atlanta International Gift & Home Furnishings Market July 9 – 15, 2019 www.americasmart.com Las Vegas Market July 28 – August 1, 2019 www.lasvegasmarket.com
New Lines for Edenborough
AUGUST
Prior to the winter trade shows, Edenborough added two new lines to its roster: Caus and Mary Square. Newcomer to the drinkware category, Caus has taken the hydration market into the charitable territory with a line of chic insulated stainless-steel drinkware dedicated to four international causes: safe drinking water, animal rescue, abolishing human trafficking and supporting disaster relief. A symbol that represents each charity is shown on every product while 25 percent of each purchase is donated to that charity. The solid colors and patterns are available for each of the four causes as are single-charity and multi-charity displays. The collection currently includes a coffee tumbler, drink tumbler, large tumbler and bottle. All feature nonslip silicone bottoms, spill-resistant and shatterproof lids and a sweat-free finish. On the other hand, Mary Square is a well-known lifestyle brand with a proven sales track record. The fun and fresh line includes the best in gifts, apparel, jewellery and charitable collections. From luxurious fabrics to uplifting messaging, the team behind product development at Mary Square is passionate about making consumers look and feel their best with each custom-designed collection. 800-265-6398, www.edenborough.com
Trader’s Forum Toronto August 10 – 13, 2019 www.tradersforum.ca
Giftcraft Announces Recapitalization In January, Giftcraft announced the recent completion of a significant recapitalization and new partnership with CID Capital and ORIX Mezzanine & Private Equity to accelerate the company’s future growth plans. According to company CEO, Trevor Cohen, partnering with CID and ORIX will provide Giftcraft with the necessary financial, advisory and support resources to take full advantage of the company’s considerable growth opportunities over the next several years – both organically and through strategic acquisitions. This partnership also allows Giftcraft to leverage CID’s and ORIX’s considerable experience in consumer products and digital marketing to both retailers and end consumers. We are looking forward to the next phase of growth for Giftcraft and future successes with our new partners.” Cohen and Gary Polan, Giftcraft’s executive vice-president will remain in their current roles to lead the company through the senior management transition over the next several years. In conjunction with this transaction, Tom Kydd, chief financial officer of Giftcraft, will officially retire after 26 years with the company.
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Mode Accessories August 11 – 13, 2019 www.mode-accessories.com Toronto Gift & Home Market August 11 – 14, 2019 www.togifthomemarket.ca NY Now August 11 – 14, 2019 www.nynow.com Trader’s Forum Montreal August 18 – 20, 2019 www.tradersforum.ca Alberta Gift & Home Market August 25 – 28, 2019 www.abgifthomemarket.ca Trader’s Forum Edmonton August 26 – 27, 2019 www.tradersforum.ca
inSpire. inForm. inStore.
inSight Shop Profile
Le Magasin
GENERAL
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Old World Charm An exquisite gift store in the heart of Old Montreal blends together a stunning mix of gifts, home décor, apparel and jewellery under the tutelage of owner Nicole Madore. By Andrea Reynolds / Photography by Marlène Lefebvre
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trolling along one of the oldest urban areas in North America brings an effervescent sense of wonder and surprise which continues as you walk through the doors of Le Magasin Général du Vieux-Montreal in Montreal. Owner Nicole Madore dreamed of a place to expound on the knowledge she gained in the fashion industry and opened a home décor store in 2010. Her first store “was basically the size of a walk-in closet” but it offered her the opportunity she wanted. Now in a much grander 1500-square-foot space, Le Magasin Général has something for everyone. www.instoremagazine.ca
Fun gift items, beautiful and trendy home décor accessories, well-being products and entertaining wares fill the store, creating a feeling of discovery. Customers enjoy a unique and fun experience exploring the vast selection of well-curated merchandise at affordable prices. What’s your background and why did you decide to open a store?
I went to school for fashion design and worked as a fashion merchandiser. In 2001, I started my own business designing and manufacturing apparel in Quebec. After 20 years in the clothing
JUST THE STATS Store: Le Magasin Général du Vieux-Montreal (The Old Montreal General Store) Location: Montreal, Que. Square footage: 1500 Employees: Seven to 10 depending on the season Top-selling lines: Pixie Mood, Indaba and Ayala Bar Website:lemagasingeneral.biz
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design business, I decided to pursue another important passion of mine, home décor. I gained a lot of knowledge from many years of business experience, and having saved enough capital from previous success in the fashion world I chose the Old Montreal neighbourhood and created Le Magasin Général du Vieux-Montreal. How did your store get its start and how has it evolved?
Over the years it has taken many forms! The first store was small, and we also opened an art gallery in the adjacent space. Then a few years later, we found a tiny space close by and created a fashion accessory summer shop called Le Walk-In. In 2017 we found the perfect space to bring the two shops together. This is now our only and best location. We couldn’t be happier! What are the main categories of products you carry?
Since we technically have two stores in one, I have the freedom to express the different sides of myself and cater to different audiences. At Le Walk-In, we show a more girly side. Fashion is my background, so I love jewellery, handbags and other fashion accessories. At The Old Montreal General Store, we carry trendy home décor and kitchen items, wellcurated products from local brands, stationery and great gift-giving items.
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What makes your store unique?
I think we offer a warm, unique and artsy ambience. As our customers enter, their faces seem to light up. I like to offer a creative mix of products that make customers feel as if they are part of a treasure hunt. One unique element is our amazing pianist, Nicolas Hébert, who provides a wonderful atmosphere. How would you describe your store’s atmosphere?
Our aesthetic is a balanced mix of vintage and contemporary designs. We have the privilege of being in Old Montreal, so our 17th-century building is surrounded by art galleries. It’s one of the oldest urban areas in North America, so we really have something special here. We have two floors with high ceilings that make it feel very spacious. Our huge windows are perfect for highlighting new products. I try to keep the window displays interesting for people walking by. To what do you attribute your success?
The passion our team members have is evident! We each have our own strengths and that helps in running a successful business. It’s also important to keep the shelves well stocked and monitor inventory so that things stay fresh. And you can’t thrive unless you have a sincere interest in people and helping them find something spectacular.
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How do you promote your store?
Do you have a favourite new product line?
What has been your most successful recent event?
What do you see for the future?
What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned?
Finally, how do you stay inspired?
We love Instagram and Facebook. Someone in the store handles all our stories on Instagram, and I’m so grateful for this because I’m not good at that. She keeps things spontaneous and fresh. It’s a fun way to connect with our younger audience and find new followers for the store. We host a VIP night called ‘Soirée 5-7’ on Thursday nights periodically through the year, inviting our customers and friends. We greet them with a glass of wine and feature in-store promotions only for the event. We reach them through a Mailchimp newsletter, Instagram and Facebook posts. We stock up with wine and champagne, and our team members are available to create the best shopping experience for our customers. Investing in a good POS system is the key to financial success in retail. For the first four years of my business, I didn’t have the right tools to make the best decisions. With a great POS, I am now in control of my inventory, I follow the sales of each supplier, and through the season I restock my shelves only with the best performing products
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There are a few! A jewellery line called Pilgrim, and watches from Cluse are great. Most importantly, there are product lines that always do well for us that are a great part of our success: Ayala Bar, Pixie Mood, Indaba, Danica, ADV, Lucia and Rifle Paper Co., just to name a few. As both the retail industry and customers’ habits evolve rapidly, we need to stay curious and remain well-informed, connecting with our customers via social media, and be ready to move fast to adjust to the ever-changing market opportunities. Since 2010, drawing attention to the store through our branding has been of the utmost importance for us. We’ve put design touches into all aspects of store presentation, adding our own hangtags, shopping bags, logo stickers, signage and more. The best source of inspiration for me is my travels. I love exploring a new city as much as walking around a gift show. Working with my creative team members is another way to stay inspired. We constantly bounce ideas from each other and push ourselves to be the best version of ourselves.
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Timeless Treasures
www.instoremagazine.ca
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Pop-Up Shops The ins and outs of opening and running a temporary pop-up shop By Andrea Hein
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op-up shops have been an ongoing trend for the last few years and there’s a solid reason behind that: they’re far less expensive than a traditional brick and mortar investment. We are living in a retail era where big-box stores are declining, and consumers are showing more interest in shopping in smaller, local stores. Pop-up shops provide an affordable way for small merchants to display items in a traditional brickand-mortar store front without the financial burden of a year-long lease. Not to mention, staff, utilities and carrying inventory all year long. Pop-up shops may not be the answer for everyone, but for seasonally-based products, they’re a great way to sell through inventory and create brand recognition. They’re also a great way for new store owners to test the waters without having to make a huge investment and a way for them to learn first-hand what retail is all about. For me, a pop-up shop was a great way to sell my personalised seasonal goods, so within a few short weeks of planning, last December the Andrea Hein Occasions Holiday Pop-up Shop was open for business!
TIMING
While I managed to get the popup shop up and running, I strongly suggest spending more than just a few weeks planning for such an undertaking. However, if the www.instoremagazine.ca
FIND A NICHE NEIGHBOURHOOD
I chose a small location on the Danforth in downtown Toronto with about 900 square feet. It was an ideal location because there were similar stores on the strip, but none that were focused on selling the same type of merchandise – seasonal decor. Just like purchasing a house, it’s important to spend some time in the neighborhood that you’re considering. Take note of important factors that will impact the foot traffic:
opportunity presents itself, it can be done quickly and successfully, especially if you already have inventory. Whether you’re looking to open a second store location, get your online merchandise in to a brick and mortar store or simply trying your hand at the retail game, a pop-up shop just might be the most effective and affordable way to go about it. For those who already have a line of product ready to go to market, you’re more than half way there. The other half of the equation includes location, merchandising and creating a great customer experience.
• What are the busy times on the street? • Is there public transport or are people relying on cars to get around? • Is there enough parking for customers? • How long do the peak shopping periods last? • Are the customers mostly local or tourists? • Is there a similar store on the street? • Is there direct competition on the street or nearby? • Is this the right age group and demographic for a shop? • What are the price points in the other stores on the street? • Are your prices similar or too high for that area?
CREATE SOME BUZZ
The number of months your shop is open is up to you, but like everything inStore. Spring 2019
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else, you must take multiple factors into account. How long you’re open can depend on the amount of inventory you have, the number of staff you have and how much awareness you’ve created for the shop. We started promoting our store through social media the minute we signed the lease agreement. ‘Coming Soon’ ads are a great way to generate excitement around the neighborhood. We also put up a ‘Coming Soon’ sandwich board outside the location two weeks before and added our store name with vinyl lettering to the window one week before along with the opening details and hours of operation. We connected with other retailers on the street and a few days before we opened, they handed out a bag stuffer with a 15 percent discount during our opening weekend.
CREATE INSPIRING DISPLAYS
Successful pop-up shops don’t cut corners where merchandising is concerned. How you present your product is just as important as the product itself. You still need to apply the basics of merchandising within the store, otherwise it will look like a liquidation outlet. You do need to get as much product on the floor as possible since you have such a short time to sell it, but you need to do this in a unique way. I chose to design and build my own fixtures. For example, I used shelf brackets that look like industrial pipes to hang my garlands, and an old wooden dresser as a table for my smaller ornaments. Crates are both on trend and functional for just about anything you would use a basket for. Before you resort to purchasing standard store fixturing, take a look at what you have around the house or even things you can purchase at a thrift store. Old suitcases make great bins for small items and they also add character and a story to the décor. Whatever you decide to use, make sure it’s eye catching and inspirational. If you’re store isn’t inspiring, people will 26
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not spend their time in there. And if they don’t spend the time, they won’t spend their money either.
PROVIDE A UNIQUE EXPERIENCE
Use the fact that you’re temporary to your advantage and offer customers an experience that will enhance the short amount of time they spend in your store. Really take the time to think about what would make your customers shopping experience more enjoyable and maybe even informative. At our shop we provided customers with hot chocolate and shortbread cookies upon their arrival. We also offered to customize their ornaments while they shopped and offered madeto-order wreaths. We held a series of wreath and floral arrangement workshops during store hours which generated some extra on-looker traffic and inspired some add-on sales. In addition, we hosted a Christmas decorating demo every evening and never turned down the opportunity to re-do the demo for anyone who missed the scheduled event. It was our goal to inspire our customers to decorate for the season, supply the necessary items so they could achieve the look we highlighted in the shop and educate them on how to create the look themselves at home. If you can provide all three, you will create repeat customers for life. No matter how small, or how temporary your store is, the basic principles of retail will always apply. Be detailed in your designs and create a space that people want to spend time in. The rest will follow. 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 SportsNet, CBC Hockey Night in Canada and the Buffalo Bills. She began her visual merchandising career at Walt Disney World and has worked for both boutique and big-box stores. inSpire. inForm. inStore.
ALLERGY SEASON AHEAD NATURAL ALLERGY REMEDIES Don’t let Allergy Season catch you out this year. Our latest range of All Natural Allergy Remedies are now available. ◆ ALLERGY WELLNESS SPRAY ◆ ALLERGY ROLL ON ◆ ALLERGY ESSENTIAL OIL
Free Shipping On Orders Over $1000 The latest in Ultrasonic Diffusers with our certified 100% Pure Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils, the perfect combination. Call us today to discuss your Aromatherapy needs : tel: 604 885 5494 e: sales@finesseoils.com www.finesseoils.com Finesse Home - Proudly Canadian - Sechelt - BC
NEW NATURAL PET PRODUCTS!
10% OFF YOUR FIRST ORDER OVER $250 WITH CODE INSTORE VALID UNTIL MAY 15TH, 2019
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BRAND NEW FROM THE FARM! Be one of the first to stock our luxury pet grooming line.
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rm
S T E P DON’T STINK od Wa l o t on W
S T E P DON’T STINK waltonwoodfarm.com orders@waltonwoodfarm.com Toll Free: 1-844-834-FARM @waltonwoodfarm
Styling by Leslie Groves Photography by Will Fournier
Wanderlust Our roundup of travel must-haves
www.instoremagazine.ca
inStore. Spring 2019
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Wanderlust 1
3
2
Adventure Awaits
4
Escape on an adventure with nifty travel finds 1/ Travel pillow from Bando, $32 retail, Paper E. Clips, 800-660-7068, www.papereclips.com 2/ The Travel Book Rest, $15 retail, The Tate Group, 416-504-8047, www.thetategroup.com
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3/ Road Spill stain remover, $7 retail, The Tate Group, 416-504-8047, www.thetategroup.com 4/ Swig Life insulated mug, $42.50 retail, Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca 5/ Kate Spade luggage tag set, $35 retail, Paper E. Clips, 800-660-7068, www.papereclips.com
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6/ Greeting card, $5.50 retail, North + South Distributors, 855-982-2111, www.northplussouth.com 7/ Assorted stainless steel straws with case, $10 retail, Abbott, 800-263-2955, www.abbottcollection.com
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inStore. Spring 2019
Trader’s Forum show fashio n d ri ven • va lue priced
May 5-7 2019 TORONTO INTERNaTIONaL CENTRE•HALL 6 6900 Airport Road, Mississauga, ON
Linens & Home Decor seasonaL items HouseHoLD proDucts HeaLtH & beauty toys & noveLties souveniers eLectronics confectionery
www.tradersforum.ca
opportunity buys anD mucH more ...
Wanderlust 2 1
Jet Set
2
Simple and stylish products for the laid-back traveller 1/ Distressed travel bag, $62 retail, Ganz, 800-263-2311, www.ganz.com
3
2/ Passport holder and luggage tag set from Portico, $51 retail, Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca 3/ Lace toiletry bag, $14.99 retail, Nostalgia Imports Canada, 800-785-7855, www.nostalgia-import.com 4/ Fairtrade Turkish towel, $55 retail, Pokoloko, 844-476-5656, www.pokoloko.com 5/ Mary Square luggage tag set, $21.49 retail, Edenborough, 800-265-6398, www.edenborough.com
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6/ Sunglasses with bifocal lenses from Peepers, from $26 retail, David Youngson & Associates, 800-370-4857, www.youngson.com
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7/ Packing cubes, Progress Luv2Pak, www.progressluv2pak.com
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Wanderlust
1
2 3
Pretty & Practical
Dainty details and pastel hues set these travel accessories apart 1/ Open kimono, $73 retail, Pokoloko, 844-476-5656, www.pokoloko.com 2/ Water bottle, $30 retail, Danica Studio, 888-632-6422, www.danicaimports.com 3/ Reading glasses from Peepers, from $26 retail, David Youngson & Associates, 800-370-4857, www.youngson.com 4/ Ceramic travel mug, $15.99 retail, Nostalgia Imports Canada, 800-785-7855, www.nostalgia-import.com
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5/ Fairtrade Turkish towel, $55 retail, Pokoloko, 844-476-5656, www.pokoloko.com 6/ Canadian-made toiletry case, $49.99 retail, Lady Rosedale, 519-754-1799, www.ladyrosedale.com 7/ Cosmetics bag, $24 retail, Candym, 800-263-3551, www.candym.com
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33
N
MADE I
S
W
EDEN
SWEDISH
D IS H C L O T HS ABSORBS 15× ITS OWN WEIGHT great sponge alternative
L ASTS 6+ MONTHS machine washable and dishwasher safe
100% COMPOSTABLE made from 70% wood cellulose and 30% cotton
mat s w e d i s h dr y
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inStore. Spring 2019
ENDLESS T YPES OF USES
danicaimports.com info @ danicaimports.com
1.888.632.6422
wipe surfaces, mop up messes, wash dishes and clean glass
inSpire. inForm. inStore.
Styling by Leslie Groves Photography by Will Fournier
Gather A round-up of products for the kitchen and table
www.instoremagazine.ca
inStore. Spring 2019
35
Gather 1
2
Laidback Luxury Neutrals always feel right at home in the kitchen
1/ Eco-friendly, compostable paper plates, $3.99 retail for eight, Accessart, 514-248-2626
4
2/ Silver stag bowl, $118 retail, Ganz, 800-263-2311, www.ganz.com
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3/ Mango wood paddle board from Mud Pie, $50 retail, Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca 4/ Linen-like napkins from Pulp, $10 retail for 21, David Youngson & Associates, 800-370-4857, www.youngson.com 5/ Split Pea tablerunner, $41.99 retail, Edenborough, 800-265-6398, www.edenborough.com
5
6/ Maxwell & Williams bowl, $8.25 retail, Canfloyd, 800-263-3551, www.canfloyd.com 7/ Mug, $8 retail, Harman Imports, 800-363-7608, www.harmaninc.com 8/ Vinegar cruet, $17 retail, Now Designs, 888-632-6422, www.danicaimports.com
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Gather
1
3 2
Feeling Blue
A rich collection of warm wood and deep blue 1/ Teapot, $35 retail, Abbott, 800-263-2955, www.abbottcollection.com
4
2/ Goblet, $15 retail, Abbott, 800-263-2955, www.abbottcollection.com 3/ Acacia wood board, $29.99 retail, Wild Eye Designs, 800-824-0496, www.wildeyedesigns.com
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4/ Mango wood serving bowl, $50 retail, Danica Studio, 888-632-6422, www.danicaimports.com 5/ Mango wood salad servers, $28 retail, Danica Studio, 888-632-6422, www.danicaimports.com 6/ Split Pea placemat, $12.99 retail, Edenborough, 800-265-6398, www.edenborough.com 7/ Acacia wood tray, from $28 retail, Now Designs, 888-632-6422, www.danicaimports.com
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8/ Linen napkin, $16 retail, Pokoloko, 844-476-5656, www.pokoloko.com
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Shop our current collection of on-trend, bestselling products ready to ship now! And pre-book our freshly released Fall/Winter 2019 Collection. Contact your rep to view the new catalogue or flip through the digital version online.
W W W. I N D A B AT R A D I N G . C O M
a d a n a C h O
(800) 746-3222
@indabatradingco
DESIGNERS + MAKERS
1-877-537-5776
cedarmountainstudios.com
DISTRIBUTED IN CANADA BY DAVID YOUNGSON + ASSOCIATES - INFO@YOUNGSON.COM 1-800-370-4857
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inStore. Spring 2019
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Home Goods Accessories for a well-dressed home
Styling by Leslie Groves Photography by Will Fournier
www.instoremagazine.ca
inStore. Spring 2019
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Home Goods Domestic Bliss
A pretty pairing of blue and pink hues with gold and copper metallics
1
1/ Wooden sign from Compendium, $45.50 retail, Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca
3
2/ Candlestick, from $20 retail, Canfloyd, 800-263-3551, www.canfloyd.com 3/ Terrarium with rope, $17 retail, Abbott, 800-263-2955, www.abbottcollection.com 4/ Ceramic vase from Sagebrook Home, $31 retail, Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca 5/ Faux fur cushion cover, $30 retail, Harman Imports, 800-363-7608, www.harmaninc.com
2
6/ Terrarium LED light, $48.99 retail, Nostalgia Imports Canada, 800-785-7855, www.nostalgia-import.com
4
7/ Mega pot, $330, Indaba Trading, 800-746-3222, www.indabatrading.com 8/ Embroidered art, $30 retail, Abbott, 800-263-2955, www.abbottcollection.com
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Home Goods 1 3
2
Neutral Offerings
When it comes to neutrals, texture-rich items feel right at home 1/ Cork globe, $70 retail, Frans Koppers Imports, 866-604-0490, www.fkimports.com
4
2/ Clock from Great Finds, $182.99 retail, Edenborough, 800-265-6398, www.edenborough.com 3/ Iron basket, $70 retail, Canfloyd, 800-263-3551, www.canfloyd.com
5
4/ Abstract hand-painted artwork, Streamline Art, 800-656-6408, www.streamlineart.com 5/ Canadian-made cushion, $64.99 retail, Lady Rosedale, 519-754-1799, www.ladyrosedale.com 6/ Fleece-lined throw, $148 retail, Pokoloko, 844-476-5656, www.pokoloko.com 7/ Flannel-check stool, $90 retail, Harman Imports, 800-363-7608, www.harmaninc.com
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inStore. Spring 2019
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NUMBER 78 a memorable new range from
CANADA
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inStore. Spring 2019
Choose these winners at northplussouth.com inSpire. inForm. inStore.
Pretty
Picks
Styling by Leslie Groves Photography by Will Fournier
www.instoremagazine.ca
Our favourite new candles and personal care items
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The Tree of Gratitude
VISIT WITH US: 530 Dickson Dr. Fergus, ON kitras.ca CHAT WITH US: orders@kitras.com Ph. 1-800-439-6393 GET SOCIAL WITH US: @kitrasartglass @KitrasArtGlassInc
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inStore. Spring 2019
We believe in the Everyday Beautiful!
- Tree of Enchantment Collection
inSpire. inForm. inStore.
Pretty Picks 2
3
1
Little Luxuries
A simple, rich palette of black and white with hints of gold and glimmer
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1/ Skeem Design incense sticks, $40 retail, The Tate Group, 416-504-8047, www.thetategroup.com
4
2/ Smudge sticks, $3.99 retail, Nostalgia Imports Canada, 800-785-7855, www.nostalgia-import.com 3/ Mixture hand soap, $28.99 retail, Edenborough, 800-265-6398, www.edenborough.com 4/ Votivo glass candle, $45 retail, Candym, 800-263-3551, www.candym.com 5/ PyroPet candle from Kisa, $45 retail, The Tate Group, 416-504-8047, www.thetategroup.com
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6/ Vegan and cruelty-free body butter, $30 retail, Green’s Your Colour, 888-492-9404, www.greensyourcolour.com 7/ Studded Votivo candle, $47 retail, Candym, 800-263-3551, www.candym.com
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Lakeshore Melodies® Featuring exquisite woodwork, and musical upgrades usually reserved for all-metal chimes.
Corinthian Bells® Our flagship brand for over a decade, Corinthian Bells® are now available in our popular Plum color.
Arabesque® Built upon the best-selling Corinthian Bells®, Arabesque® are magnificent, with engraved tubes, textured finishes, gem like colors, and a high performance wind sail. QMT WINDCHIMES 800-345-2530 www.qmtwindchimes.com sales@qmtwindchimes.com
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inStore. Spring 2019
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Pretty Picks 1 3
2
Fresh Picks
4
A delightful bouquet of green and white 1/ Candle with enclosed jewel from Jewel Within, $29.95 retail, DMC Visions, 800-201-8125, www.jewelwithin.com
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2/ Fresh Cut Basil counter spray from Thymes, $18.20 retail, Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca 3/ Basil-scented tin candle, $7.99 retail, Nostalgia Imports Canada, 800-785-7855, www.nostalgia-import.com 4/ Fresh Cut Basil hand cream from Thymes, $22.10 retail, Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca 5/ Steam Eye Masks, $14.99 retail, Upper Canada Soap & Candle Makers, 800-548-4097, www.uppercanadasoap.com 6/ Avocado and Matcha hand soap, $12.99 retail, Upper Canada Soap & Candle Makers, 800-548-4097, www.uppercanadasoap.com
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7/ Mixture body lotion, $28.99 retail, Edenborough, 800-265-6398, www.edenborough.com
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47
barefoot venus INTRODUCES
Mythical notes of Jasmine and Lily of the Valley rooted in true Vanilla,
FREE
SPRING WEBINARS Presented by Karen Kritzer
Spring into Social Media
a fragrance that connects
dreamers with realists
Wednesday, May 1, 2019, 2-3 p.m. EST Audience: Retailers
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VISIT CANGIFT.ORG TO REGISTER
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BOTANICAL BASED | SMALL BATCH | CANADIAN
barefootvenuswholesale.com | 1.888.490.1756
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inStore. Spring 2019
inSpire. inForm. inStore.
Pretty Picks 1 3
2
Colour Bursts
Playful assortments with vibrant colourways 1/ Capri Blue watercolour jar candle, $29 retail, Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca 2/ Inis Replenishing Body Oil, $42.99 retail, Edenborough, 800-265-6398, www.edenborough.com
4
3/ Votive holder, $10 retail, Indaba Trading, 800-746-3222, www.indabatrading.com 4/ Jewel Within bath bomb set with encased jewel, $29.95 retail, DMC Visions, 800-201-8125, www.jewelwithin.com 5/ Tea light holder, $13.50 retail, Indaba Trading, 800-746-3222, www.indabatrading.com
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5
6/ Studio Oh! candle, $17 retail, Paper E. Clips, 800-660-7068, www.papereclips.com 7/ Passion Fruit Neroli candle from Thymes, $31.20 retail, Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca 8/ Rose quartz facial roller, $29.99 retail, Upper Canada Soap & Candle Makers, 800-548-4097, www.uppercanadasoap.com
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SPRINGWATER WOODCRAFT EARLY CANADIAN PINE FURNITURE · Est’d 1992 ·
Your source for rustic early Canadian furniture and functional accent pieces. Skilled Canadian people, using Canadian wood to craft timeless Canadian furniture. 1-888-294-6297 SPRINGWATERWOODCRAFT.COM NEW Nuvo Console shown in Classic Stain with Black Leg
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Background Finish: Vintage Cotton over Grey
inSpire. inForm. inStore.
Styling by Leslie Groves Photography by Will Fournier
Season’s
Greetings Tops trends for the holidays
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51
ModernC 1/ Cushion cover, $15 retail, Harman Imports, 800-363-7608, www.harmaninc.com
2/ Tea towel, $15 retail for two, Now Designs, 888-632-6422, www.danicaimports.com 3/ Tall mug, $14 retail, Now Designs, 888-632-6422, www.danicaimports.com
1
4/ Greeting card, $5 retail, North + South Distributors, 855-982-2111, www.northplussouth.com 5/ Christmas crackers, Paper E. Clips, 800-660-7068, www.papereclips.com 6/ Placemat, $8 retail, Harman Imports, 800-363-7608, www.harmaninc.com 7/ Tiny dishes, $24 retail for set of three, Now Designs, 888-632-6422, www.danicaimports.com
6
8/ Swedish dishcloth, $6 retail, Now Designs, 888-632-6422, www.danicaimports.com 9/ Printed cocktail napkins, $5 for 12, Harman Imports, 800-363-7608, www.harmaninc.com 10/ Wrapping paper, $6.95 retail, Paper E. Clips, 800-660-7068, www.papereclips.com 11/ Coasters, $10 retail for four, Now Designs, 888-632-6422, www.danicaimports.com 12/ Stemless wine glass with bottle stopper, $24.99 retail, Wild Eye Designs, 800-824-0496, www.wildeyedesigns.com
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heer
Sleek and chic selections for the season
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Traditional 1/ Mouse ornaments, $10 retail for set of four, Candym, 800-263-3551, www.candym.com 2/ Cushion cover, $30 retail, Harman Imports, 800-363-7608, www.harmaninc.com 3/ TAG mug, $22 retail, Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca 4/ Great Finds moose, $39.99 retail, Edenborough, 800-265-6398, www.edenborough.com
1
5/ Ski ornament, $4 retail, Canfloyd, 800-263-3551, www.canfloyd.com 6/ Tree collar, $50 retail, Candym, 800-263-3551, www.candym.com 7/ Wash cloths, $12 retail for two, Now Designs, 888-632-6422, www.danicaimports.com 8/ Reusable, biodegradable washcloth, $4.99 to $11.99 retail, 800-363-9396, Kliin, www.kliin.co 9/ Tree jar, $40 retail, Harman Imports, 800-363-7608, www.harmaninc.com 10/ Conversation starter, $11 retail, Canfloyd, 800-263-3551, www.canfloyd.com
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11/ Cardinal ornament from K&K Interiors, $18 retail, Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca 12/ Deer ornaments from K&K Interiors, $12 and $15 retail each, Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca 13/ Cardinal tea towel from K&K Interiors, $17.50 retail, Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca 14/ Gnome, $20 retail, Frans Koppers Imports, 866-604-0490, www.fkimports.com
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Tidings Timeless offerings for the holidays
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www.instoremagazine.ca
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with GRASSLANDS ROAD
S S L A N
E .
. G
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Makers of Canadian natural soap and body care since 2000.
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wholesale@wildprairiesoap.ca | 1-866-681-7627
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inStore. Spring 2019
inSpire. inForm. inStore.
Advertise where your products will be seen. TM
TM
Advertise in our next issue! 905-690-0492 ekirkland@ instoremagazine.ca
6860 Pacific Circle Mississauga, ON L5T 1N8 www.stargazeroriginals.com
905 670 3346
Toronto Gift Fair Hall 1 Booth 1118
SHOP OUR WAREHOUSE
Extended hours during the show
www.instoremagazine.ca
inStore. Spring 2019
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“Where Buyers find what they’re looking for, browse a bit... discover more.” FREE. Convenient. On-line. Anytime. The industry’s ONLY interactive, customizable, well-curated, digital sourcing tool of its kind. Visual search results from 100’s of brands with direct connections to the quality Canadian and Canada-friendly Suppliers who showcase their Giftware, Home, Lifestyle & Specialty products with us.
NEW “Discovery Discount”
+ Launch Previews + Exclusive Offers + Unique + Popular Suppliers + Preview Seasonal Show Specials
FREE SUBSCRIPTION! COMPANY
The magazine Canadian retailers turn to for advice, insight, products and new suppliers.
Subscribe online at instoremagazine.ca Mail your free subscription form to: InStore Magazine: 103 Niska Drive, Waterdown ON L8B 0M8 You may also scan or take a pic with your smart phone and email to editorial@instoremagazine.ca
58
inStore. Spring 2019
NAME
EMAIL ADDRESS
ADDRESS
CITY
PROVINCE
POSTAL CODE
inSpire. inForm. inStore.
inSight Barbara Crowhurst
Repositioning Your Business
R
etailers are currently facing big challenges. Simply surviving the first two quarters of 2019 is foremost in most of our minds. However, to survive and thrive this year, here’s what you should be focused on:
Manage Change
We can’t do business the way we’ve done it in the past. We must make changes. The biggest change retailers need to make is embracing technology. Get online. No more excuses.
Try New Things
Learn from your successes- and failures – and then move on, fast. Stop focusing on things that you have no control over and focus on what you can do for your business.
Collect Data
If you don’t have a contact list, start collecting your customer’s names and contact information immediately. Create a VIP program and encourage your clients to sign up. Benefits of the program could include loyalty rewards, insider information (being the first to know about special offers and new products), VIP discounts and special events. Encourage people to sign up by putting their name into a monthly draw for a $25 to $100 in-store shopping spree. Set targets for staff members, i.e. the number of customers to sign up each month. Once you have a healthy database of contacts, keep track of what they buy and when. Analyze their shopping patterns and customize communications for everyone.
Increase Visibility
By creating awareness for your store, you will increase traffic, which will increase your sales. It’s a simple strategy that works. Remember that being more visible among your best customers is your best bet as they represent 80 percent of your sales. Newsletters: If you send out one a month, double that to two a month, eventually increasing to weekly. Make sure you have something to say: a new product to announce, a special event or promotion. Facebook: Research shows that this channel should be populated at a minimum three times a week. Aim for www.instoremagazine.ca
SIMPLE STRATEGIES How to survive and thrive in 2019
quality content, over quantity. Pinterest: If you want your pins to get found among the high volume of content on this social media platform, post more frequently, use interesting, beautiful images with the right keywords and imbed links which kick back to your website and/or store contact info. Instagram: With this platform, consistency over frequency is the name of the game. Research shows that the average brand posts 1.5 times a day. Are you ready to do the work of posting a minimum of two times a day?
Referral Programs
This is sure-fire way to get new customers into your store. People are willing to refer friends when they’re given an incentive to do so, and the same is true of those accepting the referral. Reward both the sender and the receiver to get the most from your referral program.
Manage Inventory
Get rid of dated inventory. Anything that’s been around for 12 months or more must go. Plan to spend no more than 55 percent of your revenue on new inventory. Conduct surveys to find out what your customers like and don’t like about the products you sell.
Staff That Sell
Teach and foster the skill of selling among your staff members or look for new employees who can increase your average sale, are comfortable suggesting add-on sales and who can close a sale. Barbara Crowhurst is a business coach and store designer who works with clients around the world. www.retailmakeover.com inStore. Spring 2019
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inForm CanGift Connects
Spring Has Sprung Change is in the air for the CanGift trade shows in Toronto and Edmonton By Anita Schachter
S
pring has finally arrived and plans for CanGift’s revitalized shows in Toronto and Edmonton are in high gear. When the association’s board of directors made the decision to consolidate the Toronto show into the Toronto Congress Centre three years ago, the work began on reimagining what a trade show could be. We considered conveniences retailers have indicated are important to them. We looked at expanding education and networking platforms, both at the show and year round, and we looked at adding colour, positive energy and creating a more enjoyable atmosphere for stores to conduct business.
We looked at expanding education and networking platforms, both at the show and year round, and we looked at adding colour, positive energy and creating a more enjoyable atmosphere for stores to conduct business. 60
inStore. Spring 2019
In August when we unveil the show to you, you’ll see that we’ve looked at our business in a new light and we hope that inspires you to do the same. The new Toronto Gift & Home Market will feature free Wi-Fi, the best industry party – complete with a renowned DJ and gourmet food stations – a redesigned, categorized floor plan, an expanded seminar program, free giveaways, a retailer lounge with refreshments and work areas, and, to kick it all off, a keynote presentation by the one and only Michael (Pinball) Clemons. The Edmonton show is also getting an overhaul with the launch of the Alberta Gift & Home Market. To add to the free parking and free Wi-Fi we already offer Western retailers, Sunday’s opening keynote at the show will feature Canadian Olympic Gold medalist and the host of Amazing Race Canada, Jon Montgomery. We will also introduce our new brand ambassador Cory Christopher and his curated featured areas and entertaining hands-on workshops, in addition to new giveaways and an industry party. We look forward to welcoming you to the new CanGift markets! Submitted by CanGift President & CEO Anita Schachter on behalf of the Canadian Gift Association’s Board of Directors. For more information about the association, including upcoming show dates, visit www.cangift.org.
inSpire. inForm. inStore.
