Spring 2021

Spring 2021

THE DEFINITIVE RESOURCE FOR INDEPENDENT LIFESTYLE RETAILERS

instoremagazine.ca

HOW COVID HAS CHANGED BUYING & SELLING GIFTWARE LIVE VIDEO MARKETING 101 TRENDS FOR THE HOLIDAYS

Must-have

All is Well

products for spring, summer & fall

Make your customers feel great with wellness products

(416) 504-8047 www.thetategroup.com Online Ordering: thetategroup.handshake.com Or find us on ShopZio.com IF Light Up Menu Magnifier

Hygge Games Good Games Connecting Good People

Suck UK Compact Colour Changing Umbrella

54 Celsius FU Candlehand

Badge Bomb 500pc Puzzles

Areaware Goober Candles & Kirby Vases

Skeem Palo Santo Citronella Collection

54 Celsius Victory Candlehand

Bike Balls Bike Light

Crazy Rumors Blueberry Lemon Lip Balm

Rescue Wipes Sandal Rescue

contents

inStore VOL. 07/NO.03

THIS ISSUE

Spring 2021

54

59

56 64

inStock DEPARTMENTS

13 Wanderlust Essential gear for when we can travel again 15 Gourmet Goodies Delicious new treats

inStyle

inSight

inForm

17 Canadian Made Artisan goods from coast-to-coast

FEATURES

DEPARTMENTS

DEPARTMENT

8 Hello!

Hope Blooms

29 News & Notes New lines, launches, industry goings-on and upcoming trade shows

20 Entertaining Dinner party essentials 24 Home Goods Fresh finds for the home 26 Beautiful Blooms Floral trends for fall

40 Santa’s Workshop A sneak peek into the trends Santa has in store for holiday 2021

54 Fall Fashion Trends

Two sweet styles for next season

FEATURES

36 Gifts for Guys

A geared-out collection of gifts for guys

46 All is Well

70 Live Video Marketing Retail expert and business coach Barbara Crowhurst details how to implement a live video marketing campaign 72 We All Have a Story to Tell Independent retailer Diane Petryna on why she loves telling her story and hearing others. Do you have a story to tell?

Wellness products guaranteed to make customers feel great!

FEATURE

59 Serve Up Style

How COVID-19 has Changed Buying & Selling Giftware

Chic new items for the choicest bars and entertaining mavens www.instoremagazine.ca

74 CanGift Connects What does our future look like?

FEATURE

64 Three Strikes You’re Out

How to play fair when firing an employee

By Claire Sykes

52 Hard Push Into the 21st Century

VIEW THIS ITEM ON PAGE 43

By Andrea Hein

inStore. Spring 2021

5

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RETAIL MAKEOVER I.T. 2021 will be without a doubt a challenging year for all retail sectors.

In light of the evolving events surrounding COVID-19, we are helping Independent retailers and other small businesses survive.

We have the plan for you.

Your first meeting with us is free.

The COVID-19 Retail Emergency Strategy Survival Plan

Our survival plan is focused on what you must know if you want your Retail Business to survive through these uncertain times.

Plan Today

Barbara J. Crowhurst Leading International COVID Emergency Retail Business Coach, Author, Speaker, Sales Trainer, Retail Store Designer, Merchandising Specialist, Social Media Marketing Specialist Office Line Ext 1: 905.686.8898 Mobile Line: 416.522.8169 Email: retailmakeoverca@gmail.com Website: www.retailmakeover.ca

Website Design, Consulting, Training, Setup, Design, Customizing, Maintenance, SEO Optimization

Contributing Editors Barbara Crowhurst, Leslie Groves

Contributors Barbara Crowhurst, Castlerock Studios, Will Fournier, Leslie Groves, Andrea Hein, Diane Petryna, Claire Sykes 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.

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

Email: editorial@instoremagazine.ca

Office Line Ext 2: 905.686.8898 Mobile Line: 416.553.8056 Email: retailmakeoverweb@gmail.com www.retailmakeoverweb.com

inStore. Spring 2021

Advertising & Production Coodinator Tina Nicholl tina@instoremagazine.ca

© 2021 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.

Stephen A. Crowhurst

RetailMakeover_W21.indd 1

Design & Layout Gerry Wiebe

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

Barbara & Stephen Crowhurst

6

Editor & Publisher Erica Kirkland ekirkland@instoremagazine.ca

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

For more information please write or call us to set up your first meeting.

At this time more than ever you want our winning approach to one-on-one business analysis and strategic emergency planning designed just for you and your business.

We are here to help you.

THE DEFINITIVE RESOURCE FOR INDEPENDENT LIFESTYLE RETAILERS

2020-12-18 4:15 PM

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VIRTUAL SHOWROOM

EXTENDED DATING & FREIGHT INCENTIVES

VISKI

HOST

QUICK ORDER TURNAROUND – FAST SHIPPING

CONTACT YOUR DESIGN HOME DIVISION 2 SALES REPRESENTATIVE ORDER ONLINE www.designhome.ca CONTACT US Design Home Gift & Paper Inc. 7580 Bath Road Mississauga, ON L4T 1L2 800-663-9950

COLLINS

CORPORATE SHOWROOM

Can’t make it to Toronto?

Contact your Design Home Sales Rep to view our

TRUE BRANDS IS THE LEADING DESIGNER & SUPPLIER OF BEVERAGE LIFESTYLE ACCESSORIES WORLDWIDE

THREE WAYS TO ORDER

REPRESENTING THE BEST HOME, GIFT & LIFESTYLE LINES IN THE INDUSTRY

FOSTER & RYE TWINE PINKY UP

VISIT OUR NEW 18,000 SQ FT CORPORATE SHOWROOM NOW OPEN IN TORONTO 7580 Bath Road Mississauga, ON L4T 1L2 Open Monday to Friday

DESIGN HOME IS PROUD TO BE THE NEW SALES REPRESENTATIVES FOR TRUE BRANDS & THEIR FAMILY OF BRANDS – PINKY UP, VISKI, HOST, TWINE, FOSTER & RYE, COLLINS, CAKEWALK, TRUE, BLUSH & TRUE ZOO

my fav...

inSight Hello

Hope Blooms!

This issue is filled with optimism and hope, and so many examples of people and businesses choosing to see the positives this pandemic has brought. Those who read this column regularly, know that I’m a ‘glass half full’ kind of person, so as these stories of resilience and spirit starting to roll in, my glass was brimming.

In Andrea Hein’s article, Hard Push into the 21st Century (page 52), on how buying and selling giftware has changed this past year, rather than focusing on all the negatives of not being able to attend trade shows, Andrea and the people she interviewed, found more than one silver lining in the new ways we are conducting business.

Retailer Diane Petryna shares how she has come to cherish curbside pickup chats in The Passionate Retailer (page 72). She’s spent countless hours listening to personal stories about how the pandemic has affected her customers’ lives and looks forward to stepping outside into the fresh air, even when it’s -20 below in Thunder Bay, because there’s magic in storytelling.

This past year has taught many of us to count our blessings and brought about so many changes to so many things. Our spring issue last year didn’t even make it to the printer; it was completely digitally as the space closing deadline came as the pandemic was officially announced – advertisers started to drop out rapidly, uncertain where the world was heading. One year later and our Spring 2021 issue is our largest spring issue to date.

What I love about this edition is the abundance of beautiful photography!

For those interested in the process of how we develop our various lifestyle shots, it starts with deciding what products we’re going to shoot from what has been submitted from suppliers and what the ‘story’ is going to be. I then share the concepts with Leslie Groves, our inhouse merchandiser, florist and all-around DIYer extraordinaire, who elevates the stories with carefully curated props and fixtures. It all comes together on ‘shoot day’ when Will Fournier, who has been photographing our beautiful lifestyle shots since day one, seamlessly – and seemingly without effort – glides about making everything look amazing with his superb photog skills.

Erica Kirkland Publisher & Editor

in this issue There is just so much great ‘stuff’ in this issue because there are that many more suppliers eager to connect with InStore’s vast network of 12,000 retail stores from coast to coast after a year

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inStore. Spring 2021

of no national trade shows.

The additional interest necessitated (in my mind) a few more pages of content, which I didn’t think you would mind! With 76 pages, we’re able to bring you the latest and greatest

products in every single category in this industry. In the editorial pages alone, you’ll discover over 150 items to stock in your store; factor in all the wonderful new products in the advertisements and you would be hard pressed not to find plenty of ‘special

somethings’. Grab a cup of coffee or a glass of wine and let the shopping begin!

inSpire. inForm. inStore.

MONCILLO Pure Home Living

M A DE I N C A NA DA

New For Spring 2021 Your Favourite Moncillo Range Now Available In Green Apple

Advanced Home Cleaning Range - Environmentally Safe - Vegan Quality Plant Based Ingredients - Paraben Free To place your order contact your DYA Rep today or email

e: sales@finesseoils.com www.finesseoils.com Finesse Home - Proudly Canadian - tel: 604 885 5494

MONCILLO Pure Home Living

Advanced Home Cleaning Range - Environmentally Safe - Vegan Quality Plant Based Ingredients - Paraben Free

PRIVATENew LABEL COSMETICS For Spring - Green Apple NATURAL SKINCARE PRODUCTS M A DE I N C A NA DA

From Concept To Delivery

Complete development and design service.

From Pure Essential Oils to Luxury Face Serums Full turnkey service - Bring your Brand ideas to life We understand the importance of value for money and that’s reflected in our label customisation services and sensible minimum quantities of 250 units and upwards.

START SELL ING UNDER YOUR OWN PRIVATE LABEL BRAND

Call today to discuss your latest product ideas e: sales@finesseoils.com www.finesseoils.com Finesse Home - Proudly Canadian - tel: 604 885 5494

inStock What We’re Loving 2

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Wanderlust Help customers imagine a future where they will be free to travel once again!

1/ On the Go Getaway Kit from Mud Pie, Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca 2/ My Travel Journal, $48 retail, The Tate Group, 416-504-8047, www.thetategroup.com

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3/ Unisex compression socks from Living Royal, $9.30 cost, distributed by David Youngson & Associates, 800-370-4857, www.youngsondya.com

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4/ Notabag Bag and Backpack, $39.99 retail, Klick Distribution, www.klickdistribution.ca 5/ Travel Tech Tidy, $37.50 retail, The Tate Group, 416-504-8047, www.thetategroup.com

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6/ Art block from Cedar Mountain Studio, from $29 retail, distributed by David Youngson & Associates, 800-370-4857, www.youngsondya.com

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7/ Bluetooth-enabled eye mask from Magnum Brands, $71 retail, distributed by Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca

7 www.instoremagazine.ca

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Elevate the everyday saltspringkitchen.com

Represented by sprucedya.com

Find us on SHOPZIO or oldcountrydesign.com

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inStock What We’re Loving

1 2

3

Gourmet Goodies Check out these scrumptious new treats

1/ Poppy Popcorn, $16.99 retail, distributed by Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca 2/ Get Sauced Hickory BBQ Sauce, $8.99 retail, SDS Distributors, 855-821-8777, www.sdsdistributors.com

5

3/ Bull Shit Seasoning, $3.50 retail, Chocolate Moose Fudge Factory, 306-631-4689, www.fudgefix.com

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4/ Gourmet burger trio collection from Saltspring Kitchen Co., $25 retail, distributed by David Youngson & Associates, 800-370-4857, www.youngsondya.com 5/ Loose leaf tea, $10 retail, Seafoam Lavender, www.lavendercanada.com 6/ Wild Game Seasonings from Orange Crate, $9 retail, distributed

by Premier Gift, 905-795-9380, www.premier-gift.com

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www.instoremagazine.ca

7/ Dutch Chocolate Shortbread, $8.99 retail, Mary Macleod’s, 416-461-4576, www.marymacleod.com

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S m i l e It looks good on you!

Susan Robertson pottery New Hexagon Bumblebee Tea Service Wholesale soon online at www.shop.srobertsonpottery.com

306-867-8011 susan@srobertsonpottery.com

Advertise where your products will be seen.

Advertise in our next issue!

905-690-0492 ekirkland@ instoremagazine.ca

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inStock

Canadian Made

What We’re Loving

2

1

A coast-to-coast showcase of artisan-made goods

1/ Bee platter from Saskatchewan potter Susan Robertson, $45 retail, Susan Robertson Pottery, 306-867-8011, www.srobertsonpottery.com

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2/ Necklace handmade in Red Deer, $30 retail, BEL Jewelry, 403-340-0742, www.beljewelry.com 3/ Mug from Saskatchewan potter Susan Robertson, $28 retail, Susan Robertson Pottery, 306-867-8011, www.srobertsonpottery.com

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4/ Canadian collection of cards designed by Loose Leaves, $5.95 retail each, distributed by Paper E. Clips, 800-660-7068, www.papereclips.com 5/ Tapered candle holder made from Newmarket, Ont., artist Ali Lynch, $45 retail, Ali Lynch Designs, 416-720-6069, www.alilynchdesigns.com

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6/ Earrings handmade in Red Deer, $18 retail, BEL Jewelry, 403-340-0742, www.beljewelry.com

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inStock What We’re Loving

2

Entertaining Dinner party essentials

1

3

1/ Tile-patterned cheese-knife set from Twine, $35 retail, distributed

by Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca 2/ Wood tray, $89 retail, North American Country Home, 888-303-2221, www. northamericancountryhome.com 3/ Demdaco cake serving set, $42.50 retail, Canfloyd, 800-2633551, www.canfloyd.com

4

4/ Hand towel, $17 retail, Pokoloko, 844-476-5656, www.pokoloko.com 5/ Table luxe placemat, $10 retail, Harman Imports, 800-363-7608, www.harmaninc.com 6/ Typewriter tea towel from Cedar Mountain Studio, $18 retail, distributed by David Youngson & Associates, 800-370-4857, www.youngsondya.com

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7/ Handmade woven table runner, $60 retail, Harman Imports, 800-363-7608, www.harmaninc.com

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www.sdsdistributors.com info@sdsdistributors.com 1.855.821.8777

inStock What We’re Loving

2

Home Goods

Fall in love with these fresh finds for the home

1

1/ Decorative bowl, $18 retail, Indaba Trading, 800-746-3222, www.indabatrading.com 2/ Wreath on stand, $60 retail, Indaba Trading, 800-746-3222, www.indabatrading.com

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4

3/ Woven cushion, $59 retail, North American Country Home, 888-303-2221, www. northamericancountryhome.com 4/ Planter, from $39 retail, Nostalgia Import, 800-785-7855, www.nostalgia-import.com 5/ Wooden tealight holder, $10 retail, Nostalgia Import, 800-785-7855, www.nostalgia-import.com 6/ Linen pillows, $106 retail each, Indaba Trading, 800-746-3222, www.indabatrading.com

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Address: 3440 Bridgeway St. Vancouver, BC V5K1B6 Phone: 1-888-303-2221 Fax: 1-604-422-0064 Email: admin@nach.ca

inStock What We’re Loving 2

Beautiful Blooms Florals will continue to trend into fall

1

4

1/ Eye glass case from Wrendale, distributed by David Youngson & Associates, 800-370-4857, www.youngsondya.com 2/ Pot, $19 retail, Nostalgia Import, 800-785-7855, www.nostalgia-import.com 3/ Travel mug, $17 retail, Nostalgia Import, 800-785-7855, www.nostalgia-import.com

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4/ Scrunchie from Rifle Paper Co., $24 retail, distributed by Paper E. Clips, 800-660-7068, www.papereclips.com 5/ Card from Pine Ridge Art, $5 retail, Candym Enterprises, 800-263-3551, www.candym.com

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6/ Socks from Karma, from $7 retail, distributed by David Youngson & Associates, 800-370-4857, www.youngsondya.com 7/ Bag, $20 retail, Nostalgia Import, 800-785-7855, www.nostalgia-import.com

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Black & Gray

Paper Root Studio

Navy & White

CALGARY, AB • RETAILER SINCE 2003

Feel Good Funnq GreetinCJ Carda From Avanti Press, Inc. 3 Unique Brands

• •

English and French Olive

 @klickdistribution  @klickdistribution 

klickdistribution.ca

 sales@klickdistribution.ca INQUIRE

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LOOKING FOR EXPERIENCED SALES REPRESENTATIVES.

inStore. Spring 2021

Awesome programs

•

The best reps in Canada

HANDCRAFTED IN CANADA

Call 800.228.2684 carecat@avantipress.com

CONTACT US FOR CURRENT SPECIALS AND PROMOTIONS!

www.avantipress.com

ORDERS@KITRAS.COM

inSpire. inForm. inStore.

inForm News & Notes

News & Notes

THE GOODS

Inside Track NEWS IN BRIEF

Canfloyd Introduces Vance Kitira Canfloyd recently announced the addition of the Vance Kitira line of candles to its portfolio through a collaboration with Sullivan’s. As Canfloyd is the exclusive distributor of Sullivan’s in Canada, Vance Kitira can be added to all Sullivan’s orders placed with Canfloyd. 800-263-3551, www.canfloyd.com

Authentic Models Now Available Through Edenborough Authentic Models’ collection of artifacts and accessories is inspired by the age of exploration, maritime history and cartography. The company’s never-ending quest for unique objects is coupled with their goal to share these stories with the world. Now, Authentic Models’ unique collection of tomorrow’s heirlooms is exclusively available in Canada from Edenborough Ltd. 800-265-6398, www.edenborough.com

The Pudus Project Pudus have created a charitable everyday sock line focused on offering a sock that not only looks and feels good, but which also does good. For every pair of socks sold, the company will donate a pair of socks to The Covenant House, supporting homeless and atrisk youth.

The charitable collection includes two options: soft bamboo socks in no-show, ankle and quarter-crew sizes, as well as cushioned comfort socks in ankle and quarter-crew lengths. Wholesale prices range from $8 to $8.50 a pair. www.ilovemypudus.com

Leanin’ Tree Signs with Bella Flor

Mask Refresher Sprays

Leanin’ Tree, a family-owned greeting card company founded in 1949 and based in Boulder, Colorado, has a new exclusive distributor in Canada – Bella Flor.

The company offers greeting cards in a wide variety of themes, including traditional country and nature designs, humour and contemporary art with hundreds of new designs launched each year. In independent surveys conducted in the USA by Giftbeat, retailers have rated Leanin’ Tree as a topselling card line for 15 years in a row. In addition to everyday cards, Leanin’ Tree provides a full selection of seasonal cards, plus gift merchandise including magnets, boxed card assortments and mugs. 800-667-1902, www.bellaflor.ca.

New from Finesse Home are pocketsized mask refresher sprays available in three fragrances: lavender, lemon and orange. The sprays are made with pure essential oils and are available in packs of 12 for $42 ($3.50 cost each). 604-885-5494, www.finesseoils.com

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inForm News & Notes

Inside Track NEWS IN BRIEF

C

M

Y

CM

MY

Toysmith Announces New Canadian Distributor

CY

CMY

K

Toysmith recently announced that Stortz will begin selling a vast portfolio of Toysmith toy and gift products in Canada. Based out of Toronto, Stortz currently distributes a curated line of high-quality toys and gifts, and will be the exclusive distributor of Toysmith in the Canadian marketplace. “We are ecstatic that this alliance has finally come to fruition,” said Josh Diament, president of Stortz. “Our shared values of customer service and making it as easy as possible for independent retailers to achieve success, makes this partnership especially meaningful and exciting.” 866-747-4191, www.stortz.ca

Giftcraft Announces New CEO Giftcraft, Ltd. has announced the appointment of Todd Vore as the company’s new chief executive officer. Vore succeeds Trevor Cohen, who now sits on the company’s board of directors. He is joined by the company’s long-time vicepresident and director, Gary Polan.

Previously Vore was the president at Implus, an active lifestyle equipment and accessories vendor. He started his career there in 1992 in an entry-level position, rising through the ranks. www.giftcraft.com

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inForm News & Notes

Inside Track NEWS IN BRIEF

AZ Home Acquired by CTG Brands CTG Brands has entered into an agreement to acquire AZ Trading Co.’s entire home décor business and all assets relating to that category of business. According to a statement from the company, this transaction is designed to further strengthen CTG’s position in the home décor market. “The combination of AZ’s position in online and bricks-and-mortar marketplaces with CTG’s global sourcing resources and North American sales network will provide customers with deeper and more comprehensive product solutions. The integration of both businesses is taking place now,” states the release.

Based in Richmond, B.C., AZ Trading was founded by John and Grace Lang in 1976.

The company is a trusted partner to hundreds of independent stores across Canada.

In recent years, the family’s focus shifted to financing, private equity and investing.

According to family representatives, the Lang family is pleased to have AZ’s home décor business and brands carry on under CTG’s stewardship.

CTG Brands was founded in 1985 and imports/distributes over 12,000 products in varied inventory and impulse-buy categories. www.ctgbrands.com

THE GOODS Bubbles & Bling Jacqueline Kent has brought her signature glamorous style to a line of beverage containers bedazzled with flatback resin rhinestones. The double-walled stainless steel containers are suitable for hot and cold beverages. 888-963-9097, www.jacquelinekentjewelry.com

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MIFFY!

Atlanta • Dallas • Las Vegas • ASTRA • Seattle • Toronto • Minneapolis

Powered by

Start ordering products on CanGift 365 today!

The Canadian Gift Association has partnered with trusted industry innovator Brandwise to create an online marketplace featuring order-taking capability all year round.

Get started discovering and ordering products your customers will love.

To create a Passport and start shopping, visit: cangift.org and click on Shop CanGift 365.

@cangift

#cangift365

www.instoremagazine.ca

inStore. Spring 2021

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Gifts

Gu

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s for

A geared-out collection of great gift items for guys!

uys Styling by Leslie Groves Photography by Will Fournier

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Gifts for Guys A geared-out collection of great gift items for guys!

3 1 2

4

5

6 7

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1/ Shampoo Man Bar from San Francisco Soap Co., $5 cost, The Niche Marketing Group, 416-481-4387, www.thenichemarketing.ca

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2/ Wooden flask from Foster & Rye, $33.50 retail, distributed by Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca 3/ Sign, $28 retail, North American Country Home, 888-303-2221, www.northamericancountryhome.com

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4/ Duke Cannon Big Ass Brick of Soap, $14.99 retail, distributed by SDS Distributors, 855-821-8777, www.sdsdistributors.com

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5/ Man Wash, $9 cost, The Niche Marketing Group, 416-481-4387, www.thenichemarketing.ca 6/ Harvest Label backpack, $122 retail, distributed by Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca 7/ Mad Man 12-in-1 travel set, $34.99 retail, distributed by SDS Distributors, 855-821-8777, www.sdsdistributors.com 8/ Airplane clock from Authentic Models, $148 retail, distributed by Edenborough, 800-265-6398, www.edenborough.com 9/ Everyday Survival Tool Kit from Gentlemen’s Hardware, $31.50 retail, distributed by Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca

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10/ Redneck soap bar, $10.99 retail, Walton Wood Farm, 844-834-3276, www.waltonwoodfarm.com

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11/ XYZ Block Puzzle from Fred, from $20 retail, distributed by David Youngson & Associates, 800-370-4857, www.youngsondya.com 12/ Great Outdoors Kit from Gentlemen’s Hardware, $31.50 retail, distributed by Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca

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13/ Journal from Compendium, $21 retail, distributed by Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca

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Santa’s

Workshop A sneak peek into the trends Santa has in store for holiday 2021

Styling by Leslie Groves Photography by Will Fournier

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All That

Holiday 2021 Trends

Glitters

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1 1/ Cookie ornaments, $10 retail each, Abbott, 800-263-2955, www.abbottcollection.com

2

2/ Snowmen ornaments, $15 retail each, Abbott, 800-263-2955, www.abbottcollection.com 3/ Mailbox from Raz Imports, $67.50 retail, distributed by Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca

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4/ Ornament from Raz Imports, $18 to $27 retail each, distributed by Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca

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5/ Coffee maker ornament, $15 retail, Indaba Trading, 800-746-3222, www.indabatrading.com 6/ Nutcracker from Raz Imports, $46 retail, distributed by Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca 7/ Dutch oven ornament, $10 retail, Indaba Trading, 800-746-3222, www.indabatrading.com 8/ Shimmer ornament, $10 retail, Indaba Trading, 800-746-3222, www.indabatrading.com

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9/ Kitchen scale ornament, $14 retail, Indaba Trading, 800-746-3222, www.indabatrading.com 10/ Ornament from Raz Imports, $18 to $27 retail each, distributed by Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca

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Holiday 2021 Trends

A Black Chri 1

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stmas

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1/ LED wall art, $27 retail, Frans Koppers Imports, 866-604-0490, www.koppershome.com 2/ Nutcracker Designs ornament, $15 retail, Candym Enterprises, 800-263-3551, www.candym.com 3/ LED bottle, $13 retail, Frans Koppers Imports, 866-604-0490, www.koppershome.com 4/ LED lantern, $25 retail, Frans Koppers Imports, 866-604-0490, www.koppershome.com

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5/ Rosemary & Time wall art tags, $8 retail each, Candym Enterprises, 800-263-3551, www.candym.com

6/ Metal tree, $37 retail, Frans Koppers Imports, 866-604-0490, www.koppershome.com 7/ Wood ornaments, $5 retail each, Frans Koppers Imports, 866-604-0490, www.koppershome.com

8/ Rosemary & Time ornament ball, $6 retail, Candym Enterprises, 800-263-3551, www.candym.com

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9/ Nutcracker Designs table sign, $16 retail, Candym Enterprises, 800-263-3551, www.candym.com 10/ Eucalyptus wreath, $136 retail, Indaba Trading, 800-746-3222, www.indabatrading.com 11/ Nutcracker Designs potted topiary tree, $30 retail, Candym Enterprises, 800-263-3551, www.candym.com 12/ Placemat, $10 retail, Harman Imports, 800-363-7608, www.harmaninc.com

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13/ Joy to the World pallet sign from P. Graham Dunn, $38.50 retail, distributed by Edenborough, 800-265-6398, www.edenborough.com

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Holiday 2021 Trends

Gnome

1

for the

Holidays

1/ Large metal gnome figurines, $99 retail each, Frans Koppers Imports, 866-604-0490, www.koppershome.com

2 3

2/ Doormat, $37 retail, Abbott, 800-263-2955, www.abbottcollection.com 3/ Large outdoor flag from Carson, $32.50 retail, distributed by Edenborough, 800-265-6398, www.edenborough.com 4/ Stockings, $23 retail each, Frans Koppers Imports, 866-604-0490, www.koppershome.com 5/ Metal wall décor from Carson, $25 retail, distributed by Edenborough, 800-265-6398, www.edenborough.com

4

6/ Gnome tea towel from Tag, $12 retail, distributed by Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca 7/ Glitter lantern from Opportunities, $54.99 retail, distributed by SDS Distributors, 855-821-8777, www.sdsdistributors.com

5

8/ Gnome heart pillow, $23 retail, Frans Koppers Imports, 866-604-0490, www.koppershome.com

7

8

6

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inStore. Spring 2021

inSpire. inForm. inStore.

What’s new? What’s selling?

What product categories are slowing down?

Giftbeat tracks sales among hundreds of retail stores across the United States to learn what product lines are selling across more than 50 categories. This vital information is only available to subscribers.

Only Giftbeat Subscribers Receive: • Vital market research on the hottest selling product lines in the United States across 50 categories • Specific, actionable information from U.S. retailers on what to buy • Early insight into the product lines that are selling so you can cash in on the trends • Access to Giftbeat’s active online community board where you can post questions only a fellow gift retailer could answer

Join the thousands of gift industry professionals who subscribe to Giftbeat!

Visit www.giftbeat.com to SUBSCRIBE TODAY! Giftbeat is owned and operated by InStore Magazine Inc.

Styling by Leslie Groves Photography by Will Fournier

All is

Well

A curation of wellness products guaranteed to make your customers feel great!

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inSpire. inForm. inStore.

All is Well

Perfectly

Plum 3

1

2

1/ Cuddle booties, Warm Buddy Company, 888-649-0649, www.warmbuddy.com 2/ Facial Mist from Nature Mary, $18.95 retail, Cross Border Sales, 905-417-6332, www.crossbordersalesltd.com 3/ Soap Savers, $3.50 cost, The Niche Marketing Group, 416-481-4387, www.thenichemarketing.ca

4

4/ Sedona candle from Skeem Design, $32 retail, distributed by The Tate Group, 416-504-8047, www.thetategroup.com 5/ Primrose bathmat, $58.30 retail, Pokoloko, 844-476-5656, www.pokoloko.com

5

6/ Sleep mask from Rifle Paper Co., $11 retail, Paper E. Clips, 800-660-7068, www.papereclips.com

6

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inStore. Spring 2021

47

All is Well

Green

1

Goods

1/ Duel-scented candle from Paddywax, $48.50 retail, distributed by Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca 2/ Votivo Minted Aloe jar candle, $18.50 retail, distributed by Candym Enterprises, 800-263-3551, www.candym.com

3

2

3/ Outdoor candle from Skeem Design, $90 retail, distributed by The Tate Group, 416-504-8047, www.thetategroup.com

4

4/ Tapers from Vance Kitira, $11.50 retail, distributed by Canfloyd, 800-263-3551, www.canfloyd.com 5/ Saskia Cosmetic Case sold with toiletry case for $75 retail, Louenhide North America, 866-338-6924, www.louenhidenorthamerica.com 6/ Three-wick soy candle from Karma, from $40 retail, distributed by David Youngson & Associates, 800-370-4857, www.youngsondya.com

5

7/ Sedona candle from Skeem Design, $32 retail, distributed by The Tate Group, 416-504-8047, www.thetategroup.com

7

6

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Everybody Needs a Warm Buddy Sleep Therapy for Children Warm-Up Plush Animals Sleep Therapy

Cozy Spa Robes New Colors !

Cozy Bunny Slippers

Cuddle Booties

Stress Relieving Superior Heat Therapy

made in Canada

www.instoremagazine.ca

www.warmbuddy.com

1-888-649-0649

inStore. Spring 2021

49

All is Well

Buzz

Worthy

1/ Aromatherapy Candle, $35.99 retail, distributed by SDS Distributors, 855-821-8777, www.sdsdistributors.com

1

2

2/ Soap-n-Scent Soaps, $9 retail each, Nostalgia Import, 800-785-7855, nostalgia-import.com

3

3/ Foaming bath soap for pets, Walton Wood Farm, 844-834-3276, www.waltonwoodfarm.com 4/ Anti-aging serum ($79.95 retail) and pedicure stick ($33.95 retail) from Cargo, distributed by Cross Border Sales, 905-417-6332, www.crossbordersalesltd.com 5/ Wish I Was in Mexico lip balm, $6.50 retail, Éclair Lips, 506-248-0672, www.eclairlips.com 6/ The Pineapple Brightening Jelly Mask from Maskeraide includes enough for 12 uses, $23 retail, distributed by The Tate Group, 416504-8047, www.thetategroup.com

4

5

7/ Soaps, $9 retail each, Nostalgia Import, 800-785-7855, nostalgia-import.com

6

7

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inStore. Spring 2021

51

Hard Push into the 21 Century st

How Covid has Changed Buying & Selling Giftware

BY ANDREA HEIN

F

or the Summer 2019 issue of InStore, I wrote an article called “Getting Online” wherein I encouraged retailers to adopt online shopping. I wasn’t suggesting that everyone close their shop doors and go digital, but rather that there was an opportunity to have a strong digital presence which complemented their brick-and-mortar stores, and which would also allow more customers to find them. What I didn’t know at the time was that less than a year later retailers and wholesalers would be forced to adopt virtual and digital strategies in order to stay in business during lockdown restrictions brought on by a global pandemic.

Big-box and boutique stores across the country were faced with the challenge of keeping their stores “shoppable” in the age of COVID-19. Some were pushed entirely online, while others implemented curbside pick-up or local delivery options.

For wholesalers, the first big change was the loss of the trade show. In 52

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Canada, in-person trade shows went virtual, and after attending a few of them, I admit to being frustrated. They were difficult to navigate - each platform being so different from the other. I ended up going directly to the vendors I was already buying from. Some retailers had a great experience with virtual tradeshows. For some, without the cost of travel or time away from their stores, virtual shows were ideal.

“Although it’s nice to have the option not to travel, a trade show is the place, twice a year, where all our reps and customers gather,” says Maegan Warren, the customer experience supervisor for Danica. “It’s a social event that keeps us connected. No matter how great your virtual show is, it’s almost impossible to recreate the relationships that you build in a face-to-face format. If you already have those connections established with your reps, then a virtual trade show might be a nice option for you once in while, but for retailers who’re looking for new vendors and to build new relationships, a trade show is really

where you make those new connections.

And that’s a lot harder to do online, even with the chat sessions and virtual face time. That personal connection is hard to replace.”

In her previous roles as a purchaser and store manager Warren says that the “thrill of the hunt” was the best part of attending trade shows. Finding things you didn’t know you were looking for and having your attention pulled in a direction you weren’t going – these are the reasons people spend so much time making their booths so appealing. That being said, a virtual trade show does make it accessible for so many more people. For instance, in past years I’ve visited Christmasworld in Germany, the largest Christmas trade show in the world, but with the high cost of travel, and now COVID-19, spending a week in Frankfurt just isn’t in the cards, so you can bet I’ll be attending the virtual event this year, and maybe even next year if it’s still offered as an option.

The virtual trade show route was deemed by some vendors as not inSpire. inForm. inStore.

the best option for them and some began to focus on creating their own virtual showroom tours along with hosting clients in person when it was allowed. Virtual showrooms are a new alternative to in-person shopping.

You have the ease of shopping from home, but have the experience of walking through a beautifully merchandised showroom.

The virtual showroom at Danica’s head office was up and running within a few weeks of the initial lockdown.

For out-of-town customers, or those that find it tough to get to a showroom during the week, or those too nervous about in-person shopping, this virtual option was informative and inspiring, but most importantly, available at all hours of the day, a convenience that will definitely stick around long after lockdowns end.

Danica was far from the only wholesaler to move quickly – vendors across the country and around the world were moving to get their inventory and showrooms online. www.instoremagazine.ca

Kaemingk, a large Netherlands-based wholesaler known for their immersive showrooms, launched a virtual showroom that allowed customers who couldn’t travel a chance to view the company’s products in an inspirational way.

Another positive element brought forth by the pandemic is that when physical showroom appointments were able to return, they had an extra element of luxury embedded in them.

Thanks to social distancing guidelines, these tours were now private events, whereas pre-COVID we would have seen multiple reps working on the floor with multiple clients at the same time.

“Yes, this limited the number of people in the showroom, but people liked it!” says Warren from Danica. “It’s one-on-one VIP service. You’re giving people the royal treatment here, so I don’t know that I see that going away necessarily.”

I booked several of these showroom tours and each rep that I worked with spoke about the positive impact these

quiet one-on-one sessions was having on their relationships with customers and were hopeful this would continue.

Bridging the gap between the online world and in-person shopping is a necessity now more than ever which most certainly won’t go away, even after we’re all vaccinated.

Both Maegan and I agreed that during the next trade show we attend, we would be paying close attention to how the physical and virtual world come together as one. While maskwearing and mandatory hand sanitizer may leave our daily practices soon enough, the changes we’re seeing in retail and wholesale were already on the way. We just have COVID-19 to thank for the hard push.

Andrea Hein is the owner of Andrea Hein Occasions which specialises in custom decor 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) inStore. Spring 2021

53

FALL FASHIONS

Madeyou

Blush Styling by Leslie Groves Photography by Will Fournier

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inStore. Spring 2021

inSpire. inForm. inStore.

3

1

2

1/ Cover up, $85.80 retail, Pokoloko, 844-476-5656, www.pokoloko.com 2/ Primitives by Kathy zippered pouch, $25 retail, Candym Enterprises, 800-263-3551, www.candym.com 3/ Freshwater pearl and shell bracelet, $20 retail, BEL Jewelry, 403-340-0742, www.beljewelry.com

4

4/ Scarf, $25 retail, Pokoloko, 844-476-5656, www.pokoloko.com

5

5/ Good Karma Miyuki bracelet from Scout, $34 retail, distributed by David Youngson & Associates, 800-370-4857, www.youngsondya.com 6/ Bag, $100 retail, Pixie Mood, www.pixiemood.ca 7/ Neoprene tote bag from Karma, from $70 retail, distributed by David Youngson & Associates, 800-370-4857, www.youngsondya.com

6

8/ Intention bracelet from Scout, $31 retail, distributed by David Youngson & Associates, 800-370-4857, www.youngsondya.com

7

8

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inStore. Spring 2021

55

FALL FASHIONS

Moody

Blues Styling by Leslie Groves Photography by Will Fournier

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1 2

5

3

TREND ALERT

1/ Trillium silver necklace, Jacqueline Kent, 888-963-9097, www.jacquelinekentjewelry.com 2/ Demdaco My Journey bag, $100 retail, distributed by Canfloyd, 800-263-3551, www.canfloyd.com

4

3/ Gold-plated necklace, $30 retail, BEL Jewelry, 403-340-0742, www.beljewelry.com 4/ Multi-purpose towel/scarf, $60.50 retail, Pokoloko, 844-476-5656, www.pokoloko.com 5/ Kimono coverup, $44 retail, Pokoloko, 844-476-5656, www.pokoloko.com 6/ Mineral Blue crossbody, $90 retail, Pixie Mood, www.pixiemood.ca 7/ Agate diffuser bracelet with stretch, $20 retail, BEL Jewelry, 403-340-0742, www.beljewelry.com

6

8/ Bali Bag, $65 retail, Pokoloko, 844-476-5656, www.pokoloko.com

7 TREND ALERT

8

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57

Handcrafted in Canada Solid Pine Home Accent Furnishings

NEW Maxwell Desk

SpringwaterWoodcraft.com | 1-888-294-6297 hello@springwaterwoodcraft.com 1533 Snow Valley Road, Minesing, ON L9X 1K3

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inStore. Spring 2021

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Serve up

Style

The latest and chicest items for the choicest bars and entertaining mavens www.instoremagazine.ca

Styling by Leslie Groves Photography by Will Fournier

inStore. Spring 2021

59

Serve upStyle 1/ Wine glass from Karma, from $12 retail, distributed by David Youngson & Associates, 800-370-4857, www.youngsondya.com 2/ Tumbler set, $24 retail, Harman Imports, 800-363-7608, www.harmaninc.com

3/ Martini glasses from Host, $47 retail, Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca

1

2

4/ Bar Sugar, $15 retail, from Collins, distributed by Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca 5/ Acacia board with wine glass holder, $15 retail, Harman Imports, 800-363-7608, www.harmaninc.com 6/ Gunmetal cocktail shaker from Viski, $67 retail, distributed by Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca

3

4 5 6

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inStore. Spring 2021

inSpire. inForm. inStore.

Serve upStyle 1

1/ Decanter, $44 retail, Abbott, 800-263-2955, www.abbottcollection.com 2/ Cocktail picks from Fred, from $7 retail, distributed by David Youngson & Associates, 800-370-4857, 2 www.youngsondya.com 3/ Olive serving set from Fred, from $21 retail, distributed by David Youngson & Associates, 800-370-4857, www.youngsondya.com 4/ Pina Colada Mix ($12.50 retail) from Collins, distributed by Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca 5/ Chill Cooling Pour Spout from Host, $32 retail, distributed by Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca

5

3

4

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new collections for holiday 2021 FOR THOSE WHO

love warmth

mug and sock set

visit our new website:

shopzio.com

harmaninc.com

Advertise where your products will be seen.

info@harmaninc.com

contact us or your local sales representative for holiday booking incentives.

@harmaninc 1-800-363-7608

Advertise in our next issue!

905-690-0492 ekirkland@ instoremagazine.ca

www.instoremagazine.ca

inStore. Spring 2021

63

THREE STRIKES

BY CLAIRE SYKES

I

t’s one of the toughest things you’ll ever do, and the coronavirus pandemic hardly makes it easier.

But when you’ve had it with your bookkeeper’s tardiness or you catch an employee stealing, it’s time to terminate. You may feel awkward or downright awful about firing someone, especially during such unpredictable times, but the pandemic demands you do what’s right for your store promptly.

You should also make sure you handle firing an employee the right way. Be fair and clear and prepared with written documentation of your reasons. And be kind and professional when you break the news.

A positive attitude doesn’t hurt, either. Firing someone may leave you with a temporary hole in your payroll, but you’ll both be better off for it by 64

inStore. Spring 2021

Some companies spend lots of time and energy to make sure the employee has every opportunity to avoid being fired

eliminating the harmful influence on your store and setting the person free to pursue a better employment match.

That’s not to say you’re both not negatively affected. Perhaps you blame yourself for trying to force a fit or for failing to see the signs of an unsuitable hire. Then there’s the time and expense it takes to arrive at a firing decision, plan and conduct that final meeting, and hire and retrain someone new. For the one being fired, it means losing their livelihood and a direct link to workplace friends, maybe shaking their confidence. As an employer, though, don’t let that person’s feelings impede your decision to fire them. The longer you delay, the more possible damage to you both.

Terminate fairly and you’ll prevent further harm to your store. You don’t inSpire. inForm. inStore.

YOU’RE OUT

How to Play Fair when Firing an Employee

want some angry, fired employee to bad-mouth you, or take legal action against you. For the least disruption to your business, put careful thought into the firing process.

TO FIRE OR NOT TO FIRE

Consider, first, that terminating someone may not be your wisest choice.

Instead of forcing the employee to leave, leave it to them as to whether they’ll change or quit. Calmly tell the employee what you see, objectively, as the specific problem behaviour, such as too many customer complaints or personal phone calls on company time.

Describe the person’s behaviour - do not interpret it for them. That way, they’ll have no room to argue. Explain your concerns about their behaviour and ask how they feel about that. Then, www.instoremagazine.ca

within a reasonable time frame, give your employee a chance to correct their behaviour.

This approach requires you to be in control of the situation enough to let the employee take charge of their own destiny, something many business owners may find difficult to do. If you’re one of them, consider alternatives to firing.

Provide the employee with more training and counseling or place them in a different job position or store department.

Perhaps give the person more than one chance to change.

Some companies spend lots of time and energy making sure every employee has every opportunity to avoid being fired. Others give just a couple of warnings. Whatever your approach, be consistent with all employees throughout every department of your business.

GET YOURSELF READY

Once you’re set on firing, prepare yourself for the termination meeting.

This meeting should be your sole and final opportunity to deal with the firing issue with the individual.

• Keep it mum. Tell only the employee’s supervisor of your plans to terminate them, so the person doesn’t hear about it from the rumour mill.

• Prepare documented warnings.

The employee should have these from previous meetings with you or their supervisor, as efforts to change their behaviour.

• Write the exit letter. State reason(s) for firing, dates of employment and any continued employee benefits.

Keep your observations subjective and emotions out of it. inStore. Spring 2021

65

WHAT IF?

BY CLAIRE SYKES

M

ost termination meetings go smoothly, without incident. But even the most prepared and experienced retailer may encounter a sticky situation while giving the bad news. You may wonder, what if the employee does any of the following?

•

Starts crying. Just pause and give room for them to release. But if the tears don’t stop in a reasonable amount of time, gently encourage continuation of the meeting.

•

Shows anger. If the employee starts yelling loudly, open your office door so others don’t think you’re hurting them. Then calmly escort the person out of your store.

•

Stays silent. Don’t push the person to talk; they could be stunned by the news. Give them written documentation of the firing and, with kindness, see them to the door.

•

Refuses to leave. Don’t in any way touch the person. Instead, get help from another employee, security guard or the police to escort the person out.

•

Threatens or gets violent. Again, don’t try to resolve the situation on your own. Have your fingers poised to dial for help and be ready to get out of there.

Claire Sykes is a Portland, Ore.-based freelancer who writes on a variety of business topics. sykeswrites.com

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inStore. Spring 2021

• Choose the right time. A slow shop day is less distracting, and early in the week is best so the person can immediately start looking for another job.

• Choose and prepare the right place. Make its private. Just in case, remove anything in the room that the employee might be inclined to pick up and throw.

WHEN IT’S TIME TO SAY GOODBYE No one likes this part, but when you’re well prepared, you can present the news with authority, grace and kindness.

• Don’t do it alone. It takes two of you on staff to fire fairly, one to control the meeting and the other to witness it, so the employee can’t misquote either of you.

• Be prompt. Alert the employee of the termination meeting as soon as possible.

Delaying the news only creates tension for all of you.

• Be brief. Keep the meeting short, to discourage a build-up of emotions and the employee’s attempt to try to negotiate or plead with you for alternatives to firing.

• Keep it together. If you’re feeling upset or angry, wait to hold the meeting when you’re calmer and more rational, so you don’t say something you might regret.

• Get to the point. Start by describing the employee’s offense(s) and a history of the chances you’ve given them, with the results.

Then let them know they’re fired.

• Focus on the behaviour. Without judgment, lay out the reason(s) for firing. Emphasize that your decision is based on the employee’s actions, not on who they are personally.

• Put an end to it. Express your decision as final. Be prepared to talk like a broken record if the employee tries to refute you. But don’t let it go on and on.

• Say goodbye for good. The sooner the person leaves, the better. If they stick around, your employees will talk, business could grind to a halt and customers might wonder.

inSpire. inForm. inStore.

Exclusive Canadian Distributor for Esschert Design

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inStore. Spring 2021

67

AFTER ALL IS SAID AND DONE

A LEARNING EXPERIENCE

• Write up a summary. Document the termination meeting date and details, and include your and your witness’s signatures. Then file it away.

• Inform staff, discreetly. Only you or a supervisor should tell employees about the firing. Keep the details private. Then, ask staff to pull together for your store.

• Provide post-employment assistance. If you’re comfortable doing so, offer to help the fired employee rewrite their resumé, or hand them a list of job counselors.

• Update policies and procedures. Make sure they’re current, correct and complete. Rewrite, as needed, for all your employees now, and new ones in the future.

Claire Sykes is a Portland-Ore.-based freelancer who writes on a variety of business topics. sykeswrites.com

If you want to position yourself as an employer of choice, treat your employees well, even while firing them, and afterwards. They’ll be more likely to speak well of you and your business. Then, following the termination meeting, once the person shuts the door for good on your store, do the following:

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inStore. Spring 2021

Of course, you’d prefer to do all you can to avoid firing anyone. But also, don’t hang onto an unsatisfactory employee just because you don’t want to “do the deed.” Sure, it’s never easy or pleasant, but when you see no other choice, fire away. Then view the loss of staff as a gain. As long as you’re letting an employee go, you can view it as an opportunity to learn how to make better hiring and firing decisions in the future.

inSpire. inForm. inStore.

@indabatradingco

info@indabatrading.com

indabawholesale.com

1 800 746 3222

HANDCRAFTED

CELEBRATING 40 YEARS AND WE’VE GOT THE LOOK F O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N , P L E A S E C O N TA C T: SALES@MARYMACLEOD.COM

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What’s New! Toll Free Telephone: 1-866-317-0702 Website: www.portugalimports.ca E-mail: info@portugalimports.ca

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inStore. Spring 2021

69

inSight Barbara Crowhurst

Live Video Marketing

B

usiness as usual no longer exists and neither should your old social media strategies.

Retailers who are aware of the newest channels and ways to meet and engage with customers and who are committed to reinventing the customer experience are succeeding.

If you only have time for one ‘new’ marketing strategy this next quarter, I suggest focusing on Facebook Live.

THE IMPORTANCE OF THE NEW MARKETING CHANNEL

The intimacy and immediacy of a live video creates the sense for viewers that they’re getting a behindthe-scenes peek at the real you. Having yourself or an engaging staff member on screen actually entices viewers to stick around and watch much longer than they would a regular video, because of the unpredictability of what could happen. And because local shoppers want to support local businesses, they are actually watching these Facebook Lives.

HOW TO ROLL OUT A VIDEO MARKETING CAMPAIGN

How often should you post? How can you spread the word about your videos? Read on for answers to these questions and more!

•

Create a monthly newsletter with a detailed calendar of your FB Live events – dates, times, topics, special guests, etc.

• The best days to host videos are Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.

• The best time of day to host is after dinner, around 7 p.m.

• Hosting one hour-long video each week is ideal • During the videos, demonstrate your products, share your expertise, show off your store and tell viewers about any new products or promotions.

• Start off by preparing a script that you can follow loosely.

• Be mindful of your appearance.

• Set up a staging area to film in front of with your store name behind you.

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• • • • • •

Invest in a self-ring light. A typical model offers three colour choices with a huge range of intensity.

If you want to take customers on a tour through the store, you’ll need a person to video the event unless you’re a pro with a handheld video recorder.

If you’ll be filming in a static spot, use a tripod or Steadicam.

To avoid black bars on either side of your video, place the phone horizontally, not vertically.

Create a Facebook group for members only. Offer a daily deal. It works like a charm to convert video fans to actual shoppers.

Encourage viewers to like and share every video.

OVERCOMING YOUR HESITANCY

The biggest hurdle retailers face with live videos is themselves. So many store owners are afraid to go in front of the camera. Some people adapt quicker than others, but almost everybody becomes comfortable at some point. It may take a number of weeks for you to get used to this new medium during which you will feel uncomfortable, but don’t worry about mistakes or stutters. When you “get it”, it’s magic for you and your business and you will see your sales grow – steadily.

Barbara Crowhurst is a retail business coach who practices internationally. She specialises in retail store design, sales training, merchandising and social media marketing.

Learn more about Barbara and the services she offers to independent retailers at www.retailmakeover.ca. inSpire. inForm. inStore.

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• Don't want the print copy? Subscribe to the digital edition at instoremagazine.ca/subscribe • Already subscribed but need to update your info? Email tina@instoremagazine.ca InStore is a controlled circulation magazine. Print copies are mailed to qualified Canadian retail buyers and advertisers.

inSight The Passionate Retailer

We All Have a Story to Tell

I

love curbside pickups. I love that happy feeling I get when I hand customers their purchases. I love stepping into the fresh air, even when it is 20 below outside. But most of all, I love sharing stories with customers.

Our pick-up procedures make our curbside a safe, happy and fun place to be. It is where my customers and I stand 10 to 12 feet apart, without masks, and talk with ease.

Over the past year, I have spent countless hours at curbside, listening to personal stories about how the pandemic was affecting my customers’ lives. Many spoke about the disruption it was causing in their personal, family, social and work lives. They also talked about their fears, depression, anxiety, loneliness, grief and loss. Many inspiring stories were told about courage, creativity, perseverance, generosity, learning new skills, resiliency, kindness and love. And there were several funny stories too.

Each story helped me learn more about myself and others in this pandemic. And because of them I felt stronger, more positive and better able to navigate my way forward.

I totally believe there is magic in storytelling. And as much as I love customer stories, I am desperate to hear the personal stories of independent retailers, and industry partners, during these incredibly challenging times.

If you wish to hear them as well, I invite you to follow The Passionate Retailer Facebook page. In the

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coming weeks and months, I will be hosting several live interviews with independent retailers across the country. Together, we’ll find out what the past year has been like for them, and what they see as challenges and opportunities moving forward.

When I started The Passionate Retailer Facebook page a year ago, my goal was to bring independent retailers together so they could learn from one another, support one another and have their unique voices heard. Pulling together their personal stories for us to hear seems like a perfect way to achieve this.

If you’re interested in being a guest on an upcoming show or know of an independent retailer who has a great story to tell, please let me know. In the meantime, please start telling your story, and enjoy the magic that comes from it.

Diane Petryna is the owner of Take A Hike + Take 2 Boutique in Thunder Bay, Ont. She has won numerous community and business awards and in 2012 was inducted into the Retail Council of Canada’s Retail Hall of Fame.

Prior to becoming a retailer, she was a self-employed research and planning consultant.

inSpire. inForm. inStore.

inForm CanGift Connects

CanGift Connects

By Anita Schachter

T

he gift industry is founded in resilience, creativity and innovation. At CanGift, our team receives daily emails from business owners detailing how they’re navigating new protocol brought on by the pandemic, as well as the challenges and successes they’ve met. Both our members and the buyers who attend our trade shows are finding ways to connect with customers which take them one step closer toward the future of retail.

What does our future look like? Our board of directors recently made the difficult, but necessary, decision to cancel the upcoming Alberta Gift & Home Market, scheduled for April 18 to 21 and the Toronto Gift & Home Market, scheduled for August 8 to 11. The decision to cancel these markets was not taken lightly. We remain committed to providing an environment for our industry to come together for commerce in the safest way possible.

We have now held two virtual shows and are planning a third for this summer.

Cue the launch of CanGift 365 (hosted at cangift. org), a new year-round online marketplace, featuring order-taking capability. In partnership with wellknown and trusted industry innovator Brandwise, CanGift 365 has an extensive search function enabling buyers to source new products their customers will love. There are currently more than 100 CanGift members and 100,000 products to shop from on the platform with the number of suppliers expanding everyday adding SKUs across an abundance of categories – similar to what you would find at our 74

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markets. It’s complimentary for qualified buyers to create a “Passport” and start discovering and ordering products on this platform. CanGift 365 also connects buyers directly to sales reps once an order is placed.

Did we mention, the marketplace is the first of its kind in Canada?!

Looking ahead to 2022, we’re planning to return with in-person markets in both Toronto and Alberta.

The order-taking capability built into CanGift 365 will help support the return to our face-to-face events.

We have now held two virtual shows and are planning a third for this summer. While the digital shows will never replace the face-to-face experience, they have kept our community connected during the pandemic and provided retailers with the opportunity to continue to source products safely. Until we see each other in Toronto or Edmonton, we’ll see you online! Stay safe. Stay well. Stay connected.

Submitted by Anita Schachter, President & CEO of the Canadian Gift Association on behalf of the CanGift board of directors. For more information about the association, visit www.cangift.org. inSpire. inForm. inStore.

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