Seaside Retailer - September/October 2025

THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE FOR BEACH, COASTAL AND NAUTICAL RETAILERS | SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2025

FROM CONCEPT TO CUFFY’S VISION OF CREATING A RETAIL DESTINATION ON CAPE COD IS A LONGTIME DREAM COME TRUE.

+ Inside: 40 Top coastal apparel trends 50 Cash flow tips that work 56 Beach bag styles to watch

Th T e R fin ho EN ds tte D fo st r t he AL he al E be th R ac & b T! h, ea p. u 64 ty

reality

CONTENTS

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2025 | VOLUME 6 | ISSUE 5

In Every Issue 8 12

EDITOR’S NOTE Let the sky be the only limit you encounter.

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TAKING STOCK How to refresh for the fall season.

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RETAILER REFLECTIONS The importance of asking for help.

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SEAWORTHY IDEAS Get inspiration from themed product ideas.

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EVENTS CALENDAR Make plans to attend these future events.

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EVENTS COVERAGE Past and upcoming industry show coverage.

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PRODUCT SHOWCASE Fresh merchandise ideas for your store.

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LAST LOOK Retail at the National Lighthouse Museum.

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AD INDEX Easily locate an advertiser’s ad and website.

RETAIL NEWS New owner acquires Pura Vida Bracelets.

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CUSTOMERS COUNT Elements to quality customer experiences.

COVER: FROM CONCEPT TO REALITY Cuffy’s vision of creating a retail destination on Cape Cod is a longtime dream come true.

Starfish Award: Anchored in the community...............................82 Little Anchor Boutique finds many ways to connect and give back to its Cape Cod community.

Features Style Trend: Capturing sea vibes.................................40 Apparel trends along the coast include soft and retro apparel as well as souvenir-centric pieces.

Style Watch: For the beach and beyond....................... 56 Seaside retailers stock a wide variety of beach bags for practical purchases, gifting, accessorizing and impulse.

Business: Simple tweaks to improve cash flow...........50 Keep your business afloat with these three strategies for improving cash flow.

Merchandise Spotlight: Tide-turning towels............. 58 Functional and suited for a fun-loving lifestyle, the latest beach towels provide attractive display options.

Retailer Update: Making a quick comeback................ 54 Quiet Flight, a surf shop previously owned by Liberated Brands, has reopened its New Smyrna Beach location.

Product Focus: Basking in the beach.......................... 64 Pamper your store’s patrons with both the scents and the sensations of the sea.

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seaside retailer PUBLISHER & CREATIVE DIRECTOR Karen Carr karen@breakwallpublishing.com 800-705-6833, Ext. 701 • Direct: 330-591-2575

EXECUTIVE EDITOR & CONFERENCE DIRECTOR Kristin Ely kristin@breakwallpublishing.com 800-705-6833, Ext. 702 • Direct: 619-241-4828 ASSOCIATE EDITOR Megan Smalley megan@breakwallpublishing.com 800-705-6833, Ext. 704 CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Kristen Hampshire khampshire@breakwallpublishing.com 800-705-6833, Ext. 710 MARKETING DIRECTOR Larry White larry@breakwallpublishing.com 800-705-6833, Ext. 708 • Direct: 610-324-2100 SALES MANAGERS Kristi Massey kristi@breakwallpublishing.com 800-705-6833, Ext. 703 • Direct: 209-230-3698 Alan Scott alan@breakwallpublishing.com 800-705-6833, Ext. 706 • Direct: 818-945-9918 AD PRODUCTION MANAGER & GRAPHIC DESIGNER Debby Clarke debby@breakwallpublishing.com 800-705-6833, Ext. 705 AD PRODUCTION COORDINATOR & PRODUCTS EDITOR Katie Turner katie@breakwallpublishing.com 800-705-6833, Ext. 709 COLUMNISTS: Tom Borg, Michael Hale, Cathy Donovan Wagner CIRCULATION: Greg Wolfe, Russell Marth BUSINESS ADVISOR: Jerry L. Croft

BreakwallPublishing Advertising & Sales: 3593 Medina Road #117, Medina, OH 44256 Editorial & Circulation: 1455 Frazee Rd., Suite 500, San Diego, CA 92108 Phone: 800-705-6833 • Email: info@breakwallpublishing.com • Website: www.seasideretailer.com Subscriptions: www.seasideretailer.com/subscribe Entire contents ©2025 Breakwall Publishing LLC. All rights reserved. Materials in this publication may not be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Content contributed by writers, advertisers, and outside sources in Seaside Retailer is presented for informational purposes only and does not necessarily represent the views of Breakwall Publishing LLC or the editorial staff. Inclusion of advertisements or sponsored content does not indicate endorsement of any company, product, or service. Breakwall Publishing LLC and Seaside Retailer cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of information submitted by advertisers, agencies, vendors, or contributors and are not liable for any errors, omissions, or claims made therein.

Seaside Retailer (ISSN 3067-3461) is published bi-monthly by Breakwall Publishing, LLC, 1455 Frazee Rd., Suite 500, San Diego, CA 92108. Periodical postage paid at San Diego, CA, and at additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to Seaside Retailer, P.O. Box 3000, Denville, NJ 07834.

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www.seasideretailer.com

EDITOR’S NOTE

THE SKY’S THE LIMIT Six years ago, Karen Carr came to me with an idea. She and I had been

working in business-to-business publishing together for many years and had developed a great friendship alongside our complimentary skill sets and the synergy we have working together.

“What if we started our own magazine?” she asked and shared with me the idea for Seaside Retailer. It’s hard to believe that six years and 33 issues later, we are still producing the business magazine for beach, coastal and nautical retailers and have grown from a business of two people to having employees, contractors and vendors. We’re well-known in the industry, have won awards for our work, and continue to grow and expand with our online Marketplace and Souvenirs, Gifts and Novelties acquisition.

Then I look to someone in the retail industry like Dominic “Cuffy” I am excited for the many Albano who has been at it for well over four decades and counting, and more stories and stores we I am in literal awe. He began by selling T-shirts out of his car, to building have yet to feature and how several successful brick-and-mortar locations, before finally pursuing his maybe something they are ultimate dream of one large destination retail experience. doing might ignite something You can read more about his incredible career journey in this issue’s within you to further pursue cover story, “From concept to reality,” on page 32. And as I look back your dreams.” through the years, he’s just one of 33 extraordinary retail entrepreneurs we’ve featured on the cover who have turned their dreams of owning a store into a reality.

I am excited for the many more stories and stores we have yet to feature and how maybe something they are doing might ignite something within you to further pursue your dreams, whether it is finally taking the plunge into store ownership, opening a second location, expanding a location or even something more monumental.

We started this magazine as a way to connect coastal retailers with other similar retailers to exchange ideas and create a community. We also wanted to help introduce you to the number of really specialized wholesalers out there who have coastal merchandise that can help you elevate your store offerings. So as you peruse the pages of the magazine, let your imagination run wild, let your dreams take off. Let the sky be the only limit that you encounter.

@seasideretailermag 8 SEASIDE RETAILER SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2025

seasideretailermag

@seasideretmag

Seaside Retailer www.seasideretailer.com

Where plush meets personal Family-owned and relationship-driven, The RGU Group is reimagining souvenir plush with simple customization and fast turnaround times.

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n a plush toy market saturated with oversized catalogs and complex processes, The RGU Group is carving its own path — one that prioritizes simplicity, speed, and personalization.

A family-run business based in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, RGU has humbly built a reputation as the go-to provider for customized souvenir plush, all while staying true to its roots.

“We’re not trying to be everything to everybody,” says founder Todd Atkins, who co-owns the business with his wife, Karen. “We’ve learned that in this industry, less is more — and simple is powerful.”

AN EASY PROCESS

That simplicity is built into every part of RGU’s model. The company offers just four wholesale price points and

six core product lines — including bestsellers like Color Me Plush™ and regional printon-demand plushies.

“All of our customizable items fall into two size categories: small and medium,” Atkins explains. “It makes it easier for our reps, for our customers, and for our internal team to communicate and deliver on expectations.”

Thanks to an efficient plug-andplay system and deep inventory of about 150 SKUs, the company can customize and ship products in five days or less.

“We’ve essentially taken the best parts of an import program and made them domestic,” says Atkins.

“It gives our customers the flexibility and speed they need without the long lead times or high MOQs.” A FAMILY APPROACH

At the heart of RGU is a strong sense of family — not just in ownership, but The RGU Group offers highquality custom plush without the hassle.

SPONSORED ADVERTISEMENT

Six core product lines give customers options to build a complete collection without becoming overwhelmed.

in operations.

Todd and Karen’s son, Connor, leads the company’s digital marketing and branding efforts, while their daughter, Mia, handles sales and customer service. Other employees include multiple generations from other families, contributing to a close-knit culture that values service, responsiveness and relationships.

“Customers want to be heard,” says Connor Atkins. “They want to know who they’re working with. We answer the phone. We respond in under an hour. That’s what sets us apart.”

RGU’s strength also lies in its focus on design and theming.

Whether it’s a a sea turtle in Florida or a lobster in Boston, every plush item is built with regionalization in mind — making its assortments perfect for independent gift shops and national chains alike. The company even pioneered the use of miniature raglan T-shirts for plush toys, an innovation now widely adopted across the industry.

RGU’s tagline, “Your Brand, Our Plushies” captures the collaborative

“We’ve always embraced the idea that our job is to make your brand shine.

We’ve spent years perfecting a process that makes name-drop plush simple, quick, and scalable.” — TODD ATKINS, FOUNDER spirit RGU brings to each customer relationship. “We’ve always embraced the idea that our job is to make your brand shine,” says Todd.

“We’ve spent years perfecting a process that makes name-drop plush simple, quick, and scalable.”

MAKING STRIDES

Sustainability is another area where the company is making strides.

RGU has already transitioned several product lines — like their Totally United™ Teddies and Graffiti Teddies — to fully recycled materials and aims to be 100% sustainable by mid-2026.

“As a small company, it’s a big

undertaking,” Todd admits. “But if our products are for kids of all ages, then we have a responsibility to care for the world they’re growing up in.”

While tariffs and market uncertainties loom large for many suppliers, RGU remains steady by design.

Their narrow-and-deep inventory strategy helps stabilize pricing, even in volatile times. “We don’t believe in mid-season price hikes,” says Todd.

“We are trying to divert any distractions away from our customers so they can focus on their business and keeping their shelves stocked.”

With decades of experience, a growing brand identity under the name Plushology®, and a refresh-

SPONSORED ADVERTISEMENT

ingly human approach to business, The RGU Group is proving that you don’t need to be the biggest to make the biggest impact.

Customers can easily build distinct plush collections with Plushology® by RGU.

R E TAI L N E W S

MAKING WAVES q New owners step in at Bethany Surf Shop For 45 years, Bethany Surf Shop has been go-to destination in Bethany Beach, Delaware, for surfing gear, apparel and beach essentials. While much has stayed the same for the surf shop over the years, Kimberly and Jake Neff stepped in as new owners of the store this year.

Jim and Sheila McGrath opened the store in 1980, committed to offering a community surf shop. Upon planning for retirement in 2024, the couple tapped longtime employee Kimberly and her husband Jeff to step in as the store’s new owners.

Surfrider Foundation volunteers remove 365,000 pounds of US beach trash In 2024, Surfrider Foundation volunteers worked to remove over 365,000 pounds of trash from U.S. beaches, according to the environmental organization’s annual Beach Cleanup Report released in July.

Volunteers collected 870,000 itemized pieces of trash last year, with 83% of those items being made of single-use plastic. Surfrider Foundation says its Beach Cleanup program is supported by corprate partner, REEF, and the Surf Industry Members Association through the Better Beach Alliance, which encourages all groups to participate in the shared goal of ending plastic pollution.

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Heart on Main Street introduces Independent Rebuild Project Heart on Main Street, a nonprofit organization focused on helping independent retailers, has introduced its Independent Rebuild Project as a hands-on initiative to support independent retailers recovering from disaster.

“The concept came as we were discussing what more we could do to help retailers get back on their feet, and I thought this would be a wonderful addition to what we already are doing,” says Executive Director Patrick Keiser.

Keiser adds that the current plan is for Heart on Main Street to offer one Independent Rebuild Project per year, with goals of expanding. He says, “We are hoping there will be so much interest in the program that we are able to look at once a quarter.”

Individuals interested in helping with the Heart on Main Street Independent Rebuild Project can either volunteer their time with the rebuild projects or offer a monetary or product donation toward the cause.

“The Independent Rebuild Project is a vital new initiative from Heart on Main Street that brings our mission to life in a hands-on, meaningful way,” says Keiser. “It’s about more than fixing walls or repainting storefronts; it’s about restoring hope, dignity and opportunity to independent retailers who have been impacted by disaster.”

In August, the nonprofit organization plans to visit Asheville, North Carolina, to support Dogwood Darlings Boutique, a local retailer that had been impacted by Hurricane Helene in the fall of 2024. The nonprofit along with a small team of industry volunteers spent three days on the ground helping to paint, drywall and set up inventory for the retailer in need.

Mermaids on Cape Cod owner returns to her roots Shari Aussant has opened up a second shop in Wareham, Massachusetts, where her beachy brand, loyal following and committed community was born.

For 10 years, she wheeled around in a repurposed coffee truck carting around Mermaids on Cape Cod goods. After curating her Mermaids on Cape Cod boutique in oceanfront West Dennis, Massachusetts, Aussant followed a calling to return home. In April, she opened Mermaids on Cape Cod Boutique & Company Store at 2573 Cranberry Road, within eyeshot of the Old Company Store, a building she still owns in Wareham. It’s a harmonious mashup of her boutique brand and nostalgic retro finds typical of Old Company Store.

“We are mixing the vintage thrift shop and country store with my boutique clothing,” Aussant says. www.seasideretailer.com

R E TAI L N E W S

Grand Hyatt Indian Wells opens new resort gift shop

Pura Vida Bracelets acquired by CriticalPoint affiliates

This spring, Grand Hyatt Indian Wells Resort & Villas in Palm Springs, California, opened its main resort gift shop. The store, which is managed by Event Network, features a mix of resortwear, souvenirs and travel essentials.

“The store has been such a great addition for guests to give them a more comfortable stay,” says Store Director David Vargas. “A guest can stay their entire visit at the resort and instead of going off-site for any essentials or outfits, they can get all of that here.

He adds, “Whether customers are looking for something practical to wear, last-minute essentials or a keepsake to take home with them, we’re a one-stop shop for everything during your stay.”

Affiliates of CriticalPoint have acquired the Pura Vida Bracelets brand from Vera Bradley Inc. Founded in 2010, La Jolla, California-based Pura Vida began as a digitally native jewelry and lifestyle accessories brand, selling handcrafted bracelets and jewelry made by artisans from Costa Rica.

Under CriticalPoint’s ownership and operational expertise, Ryan Heuser, co-founder and former president of Paul Frank Industries, has joined Pura Vida as the company’s new chief executive officer, effective immediately.

Earlier this year, Vera Bradley had announced it was selling the Pura Vida jewelry brand for a cash consideration of $1 million. Vera Bradley acquired a 75% stake in Pura Vida Bracelets in 2019 for $75 million and acquired the remaining 25% in 2023 for $10 million.

www.seasideretailer.com

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2025 SEASIDE RETAILER 13

TAK I N G S T O C K

BY MICHAEL HALE

Refresh for the fall

There are many ways to embrace fall fashion and appeal to both local shoppers and tourists in the shoulder season.

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s autumn rolls around, summer themes need to make way for fall colors and themes in retail assortments and displays. This is especially important with apparel.

Even if you’re not a high-fashion boutique, there are many ways to embrace fall fashion and appeal to both local shoppers and tourists in the shoulder season.

SHOWCASE COZY APPAREL

Michael Hale, CEO of Retail Rehab, transforms retail spaces and helps drive up profits. michael@retail-rehab.com www.retail-rehab.com

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One of the most important factors to remember in tourist-heavy spots is that your shoppers may be heading home to much cooler temperatures.

With that in mind, start transitioning your feature displays to include fall-ready apparel such as fleece pullovers, cozy hoodies and lightweight jackets.

T-shirts and shorts might be core items for your store year-round, but they don’t need to dominate your displays. Move those items to secondary locations and bring layering pieces forward.

TRANSITION COLOR STORIES

If you’ve been showcasing apparel in bright summer hues, now is a good time to introduce warmer, richer tones. Transition your color stories to shades such as deep red, navy blue, charcoal gray, burnt orange and black. These tones instantly convey the feeling of fall.

REPOSITION PRODUCTS

Fall is also the perfect time to begin managing summer inventory. Identify items you don’t plan to bring back next year and start moving them into a designated sale section.

A well-merchandised sales area with neatly organized racks can still maintain your brand image while driving conversions. As fall progresses, feed more summer styles into this section strategically.

Transitioning into fall doesn’t mean a total store overhaul. It means thoughtful edits in product focus, color and placement. With a few smart moves, seaside retailers can stay relevant and profitable well beyond summer.

www.seasideretailer.com

R E TAI L E R R E F L E C T I O N S

BY CATHY DONOVAN WAGNER

Why great retailers ask for help

No one expects you to run your retail business alone, but it is up to you to ask for help.

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unning a successful retail store isn’t just about stocking the right merchandise — it’s also about running a business. And that means managing cash flow, understanding profitability and staying on top of your numbers.

In coastal communities where tourism drives so much of the business, it can feel like you’re riding a seasonal roller coaster, booming some months and then quiet the next month.

How do the most successful retailers manage the ups and downs?

The key is to not do it alone. There are two smart moves that can help you transform your business.

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FIND A FINANCIAL EXPERT.

Cathy Donovan Wagner helps store owners scale sales past 7 figures.

Check out her Richer Retail Podcast.

847-622-8382 clientcare@retailmavens.com www.retailmavens.com

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If managing the books gives you headaches, that’s a sign to call in help. A good bookkeeper or financial expert will do more than crunch numbers; they will give you the clarity and confidence you need to make better business decisions.

When you free yourself from

tasks that drain your energy, you create space to focus on what does light you up, like developing new products, nurturing your team or designing the perfect summer window display.

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INVEST IN A BUSINESS COACH. A good business

coach brings experience, structure and accountability to ensure you’re not guessing your way through your business.

Whether you’re navigating a short tourist season or planning for more year-round stability, a coach can help you build systems that support profit in every season.

MINDSET MATTERS

At the end of the day, the most resilient retailers are curious, proactive learners. They ask questions. They try new things. They don’t let fear or stress stop them from taking action.

No one expects you to run your retail business alone, but it is up to you to ask for help. You’ve built something special, now let’s make sure it lasts!

www.seasideretailer.com

CUSTOMERS COUNT

BY TOM BORG

Four elements to quality customer experiences

When you use all four of these elements, you can form the beginning of a beautiful relationship with your customer.

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ustomer experience experts agree that how you make your customer feel is one of the most effective ways to grow your business.

Coastal retailers can put this into practice every day as customers walk through your doorway. I’ve found that there are four elements to providing customers with a quality experience: Greet the customer by looking them directly in the eye, smile, say hello and use the customer’s name.

Let’s take a closer look at why this approach is so effective for building quality customer experience.

EYE CONTACT

Tom Borg is a retail consultant, speaker and author of “True Small Business Brilliance.” Contact him at: 734-812-0526 tom@tomborg.com www.tomborgconsulting.com

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When you look someone directly in the eye, it tells the person that all your attention is on them. Remember, the people you serve want to feel important. You can help them feel that way through good eye contact.

SMILE

A smile is one of the most powerful things you can offer your customers.

It nonverbally communicates that you like them, you’re glad they’ve come to your gift shop, and you want to make their visit a pleasant experience.

GREETING

By simply acknowledging someone who walks into your store with a cheerful, “hello,” you make that person feel welcome. That’s exactly what your customers are looking for when they visit your gift shop.

USE THEIR NAME

As the customer makes a purchase, you have another opportunity to connect with them by using their name, which can help to deepen your connection with them. When you introduce yourself, ask them for their name — or simply catch it from their credit or debit card during checkout.

When you use all four of these elements — eye contact, a smile, a greeting and their name — you can form the beginning of a beautiful relationship with your customer.

www.seasideretailer.com

S E AW O R T H Y I D E A S | B I R D S

Taking flight Customers are flocking to products featuring their favorite coastal feathered friends.

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1. Fancy That Gift & Decor: Resin sea crane, www.fancythatgift.com; 2. Beacon Design: Great blue heron name-drop ornament, www.beacondesign.com; 3. Melissa Hyatt: “Heron” giclee art print, www.melissahyatt.com; 4. Wild Republic: Audubon great egret plush, www.wildrepublic.com; 5. Home Malone: Southern marshland door hanger, www.homemalonenola.com; 6. Melissa Lew: Heron stainless steel necklace, www.melissalew.com; 7. Baxter and Me: Pelican garden flag, www.shopbaxterandme.com; 8. Sincere Surroundings: Seagull french fry wooden postcard, www.sinceresurroundings.com; 9. Beaver Dam Woodworks: Seagull whirlybird, www.beaverdamwoodworks.com.

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S E AW O R T H Y I D E A S | N A U T I C AL R O P E

Knot-ical touches From dock to decor, these rope-inspired finds tie everything together in a nautical way.

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1. Nomadic State of Mind: JC rope sandal in Camel, www.nomadicstateofmind.com; 2. Butler Hill: Newport Rope bracelet, www.butlerhillandco.com; 3. The New England Trading Co.: Wicked Good doormats, www.thenewenglandtradingcompany.com; 4. Beagle Bay Knot Works: Coastal Cuddy mug mat (coaster) set, www.beaglebayknotworks.com; 5. Harborside Ropeworks: Heart of the Ocean, www.harborsideropeworks.com; 6. Anju: Amalfi jute bag with rope handle, www.anjujewelry.com; 7. Patsy Kane: Monkey fist earrings, www.patsykane.com; 8. Peachy Pendants: Navy anchor rope bracelet, www.peachy-pendants.myshopify.com; 9. Zeckos: Cast iron ship anchor bookend set, www.faire.com/direct/zeckos.

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S E AW O R T H Y I D E A S | P I N E AP P L E S

Juicy finds Bright, bold and bursting with tropical personality — these pineapple picks steal the show.

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1. Salt n Rays: UPF 50 beach towel/wrap, www.saltnrays.com; 2. Island Haus Co.: Pineapple keychain, www.islandhausco.com; 3. Oooh Yeah!: Pineapple vibes socks, www.ooohyeahsocks.com; 4. KC Essentials: Pineapple and sage 10-ounce soy candle, www.kcessentials.com; 5. Kurt Adler: Glass pineapple ornament, www.kurtadler.com; 6. Kay Hova Art + Home: Pineapple serving board of resin and wood, www.kaylinhovance.com; 7. Green Tree Jewelry: Pineapple earrings made of sustainably sourced wood, www.greentreejewelry.com; 8. 7th and Palm: Pineapple whimsy cards - boxed set, www.7thandpalm.com; 9. Little Box Guy: Pineapple hat, www.littleboxguy.com.

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S E AW O R T H Y I D E A S | T O Y S & G AM E S

Fun in the sun Get soaked in smiles — these games and toys are made for ocean, pool deck or sandy fun.

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1. Rustic Marlin: Coastal Stripes cornhole game set, www.rusticmarlin.com; 2. Dolphin Hat Games: Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza poolside edition with waterproof cards, www.dolphinhat.com; 3. Baydog: WaveSkipper dog toy, www.baydog.com; 4. Island Time Sports (Tiki Toss): Flower Power Hook and Ring game, www.islandtimesports.com; 5. Lipco: Water ball slingshot toy, www.lipco.biz; 6. Beachmate: The Beachmate beach essentials solution, www.mybeachmate.com; 7. TidalBall: TidalBall beach game, www.tidalball.com; 8. Surfer Dudes: Surfer Dudes — the world’s first Surf Boomerang, www.surferdudes.com; 9. The Wind Free: The Wind Free game board, www.thewindfree.com.

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S E AW O R T H Y I D E A S | F L I P F L O P S

Flip side It’s only flips and no flops with gifts and accessories that feature fun beachy footwear.

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1. Cape Shore: Harbor mug with flip flops, www.cape-shore.com; 2. Simply Southern: Short-sleeved sandal T-shirt in peach, www.simplysouthernwholesale.com; 3. Bamboo Trading Company: Club bag - flip flops, www.bambootradingcompany.com; 4. The Cottonseed Marketplace: Acrylic flip flop keychain, cottonseedmarketplace.faire.com; 5. Tangico: Jersey Shore flip flops ornament, www.tangicousa.com; 6. Beadworx by Extol Accessories: Flip flop window thermometer, www.extolltd.com; 7. Ocean Jewelry: 14-karat gold vermeil mother of pearl flip flop necklace, www.oceanjewelrystore.com; 8. Leo George: Flip flop bracelet, www.leogeorgebrand.com; 9. Bamboo Source Tropical Decor: Flip flop peg wall hanger, www.bambootropicaldecor.com.

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S E AW O R T H Y I D E A S | C O R AL

Coral crush Bring the beauty of the reef ashore with coral-themed pieces full of ocean charm.

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1. Living in Glass Houses: Coral tealight candle holder, www.livinginglasshouses.com; 2. My Bougie Bottle: Corallia design 25-ounce insulated water bottle, www.mybougiebottle.com; 3. Pink Pineapple Shop: Coral mermaid clamp-on bracelet, www.pinkpineapplewholesale.com; 4. The Beach and Back: Beaded coral gables earrings, www.thebeachandback.com; 5. Dune Jewelry & Co.: Coral charm necklace, www.dunejewelry.com; 6. Dogfish Design 13: Blue coral trinket shell, dogfishdesign13.faire.com; 7. Cream Cornwall: Fistral coral art print, www.creamcornwall.com; 8. Buddy by the Sea: Coral reef short-sleeved T-shirt, www.buddybythesea.com; 9. A to Z Towels: Nostalgic prints - deep sea coral, www.atoztowels.com.

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C O V E R S T O RY

Longtime Cape Cod retail entreprenuer Dominic “Cuffy” Albano (above) has fulfilled his vision of turning Cuffy’s of Cape Cod into a coastal, turn-of-thecentury style shopping experience, where families can spend hours exploring.

Photos: Bryan Stearns 32 SEASIDE RETAILER SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2025

www.seasideretailer.com

C O V E R S T O RY

FROM CONCEPT TO STORY BY MEGAN SMALLEY

reality

CUFFY’S VISION OF CREATING A RETAIL DESTINATION ON CAPE COD IS A LONGTIME DREAM COME TRUE.

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ustomers don’t just come and go at Cuffy’s of Cape Cod — they come and stay for hours to take in all the experiential retail that the enormous West Dennis, Massachusetts, gift and souvenir store has to offer.

This is no ordinary store. The 20,000-square-foot storefront stretches along a quaint boardwalk atop a pond and colorful landscaping, with buildings reminiscent of the turn of the 20th century. The coastal store offers gifts and souvenirs for people of all ages visiting Cape Cod, including T-shirts, sweatshirts, toys, plush, home goods, pet accessories and other New England mementos.

This picturesque Cape Cod retail destination became a reality just within the past year. Cuffy’s of Cape Cod embarked on a major expansion project in 2020, and Owner Dominic “Cuffy” Albano says he and his team put some final touches on it this summer. He says the spot has become a go-to destination for visitors to Cape Cod. “A lot of people say, ‘location, location, location.’ But I say, ‘concept, concept, concept,’” says Albano. “I wasn’t concerned about the location or worried that people like to shop online nowadays. I’ve always believed in concept. In other words, I’ve got this ‘build it, and they will come’ attitude. It was more important to put energy into creating a place that is something different and better than what they’ll get elsewhere. I wanted to put my eggs in one basket by creating a concept, that destination store.

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SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2025 SEASIDE RETAILER 33

C O V E R S T O RY

Captivating store displays include colorfully stacked apparel, plush beach and sea creatures beneath sand sculptures and historic boats showing off T-shirts.

He adds, “Everything we’re doing here is to create a very positive, uplifting experience for people that they might not get every day. It’s a chance for families to leave their cares and worries at the door.”

“EVERYTHING WE’RE DOING HERE IS TO CREATE A VERY POSITIVE, UPLIFTING EXPERIENCE FOR PEOPLE THAT THEY MIGHT NOT GET EVERY DAY. IT’S A CHANCE FOR FAMILIES TO LEAVE THEIR CARES AND WORRIES AT THE DOOR.” — DOMINIC “CUFFY” ALBANO

STARTING SMALL

building and Cuffy’s of Cape Cod officially began. He says the Cape Cod retail business has been evolving ever since then, too.

“I was about 25 years old at that time,” Albano recalls. “I built the first phase of what was my West Dennis location, and then from there, I rented other sites on Cape Cod for other retail storefronts. And eventually I would add to the West Dennis location.”

Over the past 45 years, Albano

Cuffy’s of Cape Cod had a humble start — Albano first got into retail by selling souvenirs as a side hustle.

The company started in 1980 when Albano graduated from college and sold souvenir T-shirts from the top of his mother’s car on Route 28 in West Dennis. Albano purchased 300 misprint T-shirts for $1 each and sold them for $2 each.

By 1984, Albano moved his souvenir business into its flagship 34 SEASIDE RETAILER SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2025

says he opened “at least a dozen stores,” most of which were on Cape Cod. At least one store opened in Rhode Island as well. Albano notes that each store had a slightly different concept or retail focus.

But, he adds, he shifted gears when he came up with a concept almost 20 years ago to turn his flagship West Dennis store into a go-to Cape Cod destination.

“I was inspired to create a nostalgic concept of Cape Cod with the www.seasideretailer.com

C O V E R S T O RY

turn of the century, with an old candy shop, an old general store, an emporium and a beach club.”

Albano partnered with some designers to develop a nostalgic shopping destination concept for Cuffy’s of Cape Cod’s West Dennis store about Families enjoy finding matching Cape Cod name-drop 20 years ago, but the T-shirts and hoodies from Cuffy’s. vision remained a concept for quite a while. Cuffy’s had store, celebrating some of the differobtained permits to expand many ent elements or buildings and gems years ago, but Albano says he wanted of the cape,” says Albano, noting that to wait to make sure he had finanche got his inspiration from Disney ing in place for a project of this size.

World and its Main Street USA. About five years ago, Albano took “I wanted to create a place where a risk — he decided to go for it with people could step back in time to the

36 SEASIDE RETAILER SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2025

the expansion project at the West Dennis store.

“Ultimately, I wasn’t able to get the amount of financing I wanted, but I decided to take small bites and a piecemeal approach to getting things built over a longer period of time.”

BUILDING AN ATTRACTION

Over a span of four years, Cuffy’s of Cape Cod tripled the size of its flagship store, complete with distinct sections in the store that make it an experience for shoppers.

The expanded store has a lot to see and do: At the very front of the store, a 20-ton sand sculpture greets guests. A new sand sculpture goes up each year, too. The boardwalk and pond right outside also add to the store’s coastal feel.

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C O V E R S T O RY

Guests can then walk into the emporium, which is inspired by grand seaside hotels from the turn of the century. As they keep walking, another section is themed like a general store with retro souvenirs and gifts. Customers can also find a confectionery, full of candy souvenirs and even a wall that spells out “Cape Cod” using jellybeans. Another section is themed like an old lifesaving station and then a retro beach club.

From the outside, Cuffy’s of Cape Cod looks like an outdoor mall with many small merchants, but Albano says it’s all connected on the inside.

Albano says the store invites customers to stay a while with coastal-themed cornhole as well as rocking chairs and checkerboard tables located just outside the store.

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While Cuffy’s of Cape Cod has pared down to just its flagship store in West Dennis today, Albano says there’s value to this approach.

“I’d rather have one store doing what 10 stores do,” he explains. “I like the destination concept. You can concentrate on one place and do it really well and do it bigger and better, and hopefully we’ll have a bit of a captive audience here. Everything here was carefully crafted and designed, but now it’s all lined up. It took years and years, and a whole lot of patience.”

CUSTOM, CUSTOM, CUSTOM

A 13,000-square-foot buildout meant adding a lot of merchandise Stacked apparel makes it easy for people to grab items as they browse the store.

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2025 SEASIDE RETAILER 37

to the store these past few years.

Just like with the store’s concept and design, Albano says he and his team were very intentional when deciding what products to add to the store.

“Most of the product, whether it’s apparel or any other souvenir items in here, we design or have manufactured for us with our own ideas and concepts,” says Albano. “We’ll spend all year designing next year’s lineup, from the colors to the designs.”

He adds, “Everything is carefully laid out and designed on the computer first with our products. We don’t just throw things out there on the sales floor. Everything is custom, cusCuffy’s colorful candy section is a hit, as are the store’s name-drop coastal home decor items.

38 SEASIDE RETAILER SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2025

tom, custom — it’s well thought out to meet our desire and objectives.”

Albano estimates that about 80% of the products are unique to Cuffy’s of Cape Cod, featuring either the Cuffy’s or Cape Cod name drop.

Apparel is big for the store, with many families stopping in for matching Cape Cod T-shirts or sweatshirts to commemorate their vacations.

Customers can even take home a matching Cape Cod hoodie for their furry friends if they want.

Kids gravitate toward the playful plush island, with an animatronic singing bear on top named “Big Moe,” while people of all ages enjoy browsing the store’s locally procured penny candy selection and foods.

Albano notes that while he could likely boost revenue by selling some

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C O V E R S T O RY

of the store’s branded items online, there’s something special about only having them available in-store.

“I don’t want people to lose the guest experience they can get here,”

Albano jokes that rainy summer days are perfect for business.

“When it’s not a beach day in Cape Cod, it gets pretty busy in here!” he says. “Last year on Fourth of July, we

“EVERYTHING IS CUSTOM, CUSTOM, CUSTOM — IT’S WELL THOUGHT OUT TO MEET OUR DESIRE AND OBJECTIVES.” — DOMINIC “CUFFY” ALBANO he says. “I want people to wait until they get here. I believe there’s a certain anticipation for guests, so if they come here once a year or a couple of times a year, it makes the purchase at Cuffy’s more special.”

NEVER REALLY DONE

The new Cuffy’s of Cape Cod always attracts a crowd of customers, particularly in the busy summer months.

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had rain so we filled the parking lot and all the way down the street. For us, a rain day can triple our business.”

Albano adds that the store employs well over 100 people in the summertime, with the store open from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.

And while Albano loves the store’s new design, what he enjoys more is connecting with customers.

“There’s plenty of challenge with

doing this, building out Cuffy’s,” he says. “But I would say, definitely, the connection with the guests is really nice. I had one woman who told me that she’s been coming here ever since her son was 18 months old.

Her son is now 35 and has his own 18-month-old kid, and they’re coming here. That’s a great feeling.”

While Cuffy’s of Cape Cod has completed a major buildout, Albano says he hopes to keep evolving his retail concept.

“The real thing is, hopefully, that this will never really be done,” he says. “We’re wrapping up landscape work right now, but there are additional push carts and food elements that will hopefully be coming for next summer. We’re looking to add something to it all the time.”

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2025 SEASIDE RETAILER 39

S T Y L E T R E N D : AP PAR E L

STORY BY KRISTIN ELY

APPAREL TRENDS ALONG THE COAST ARE SOFT, RETRO AND SOUVENIR-CENTRIC.

Capturing

N

SEA vibes

othing shouts coastal living like casual apparel. Whether your customer is looking for fashionable surf brands, breezy and cool comforts, or a positive connection to their beach memories, apparel is the epitome of beach buys for its universal appeal and functionality.

At Sandwich, Massachusetts-based Wave Cape Cod happy beach vibes are what it’s all about.

“We are primarily a jewelry and gift store focusing on sterling silver jewelry, and beachy/Cape Cod gifts, clothing and accessories,” Carisa Phillips, owner of Wave Cape Cod, describes. “We want our store to feel like stepping into your best beach day even in the dead of winter.”

And apparel does not take a backseat due to its

40 SEASIDE RETAILER SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2025

practicality and souvenir characteristics. “Everyone likes to commemorate where they have traveled or where they live. Plus, here on the coast the weather can change quickly. People often forget to bring that extra layer. As a merchandiser, I think the clothing absolutely helps tell the story of the store and the season.”

Sweatshirts make up the biggest part of Wave Cape Cod’s apparel selection.

“I mean you can never have enough cozy sweatshirts in your closet. It’s all about happy comfort in this shop, and we have the perfect sweatshirt for a cooler beach day or a summer bonfire on the beach,” Phillips explains.

Happy beach vibes are reflected in the clothing selections at Wave Cape Cod where its all about living your best beach day.

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S T Y L E T R E N D : AP PAR E L

Most of Wave’s sweatshirts are designed in the shop and printed locally.

“We have our bestselling sweatshirts ‘Love, Cape Cod’ and ‘Love, Sandwich’ which fly off the shelf and several other designs that were new this year,” says Phillips.

She adds that the store is always working on new designs for the coming seasons and changing demographics, which range from typical beach vacationers in the height of summer to travelers from all over the country, Canada and Europe during the shoulder seasons, and a loyal customer base of local residents during the off-season.

“In addition to our sweatshirts, we offer long-sleeve T-shirts with our designs and add in additional sweatshirts and T-shirts from one

any shade of blue is going to be a top seller at Wave, this year the store’s “Sun Seeker” hoodie in butter yellow was a best seller. “It certainly is a happy sweatshirt,” she says.

While hooded sweatshirts will always be on trend in Cape Cod, she does still pay attention to the graphic design elements. “I think the boho/ California coast beach vibe is something people are gravitating to. We will look to continue that idea with our designs going into next season.”

SOFT SPOT

For Sean Feeney, founder and CEO of The Lomas Brand, what began as a booth at the Solana Beach Sunday farmer’s market has grown into a coastal apparel business with both a thriving retail store and a national online following.

“We want our store to feel like stepping into your best beach day even in the dead of winter.”

— CARISA PHILLIPS, WAVE CAPE COD

of my favorite brands, Oat Collective among others. We also carry summer dresses and beach coverups from brands like Elsie and Zoey, Top it Off, and Mudpie,” Phillips relates.

While she says a classic hoodie in

“Four years ago my wife and I opened our retail store along the 101 in Solana Beach after years of setting up booths at local farmer’s markets,” Feeney shares. That early presence built a loyal community in North

Summer dresses and beach coverups are aplenty at Wave Cape Cod.

San Diego County, which showed up in force when the storefront launched.

Today, The Lomas Brand is known for comfortable, quality apparel that balances style and ease.

“Our customers when in the shop almost immediately gravitate to the softness of our T-shirts and always stop to check out our microfleece sweater as its textured exterior and plush fleece interior stops traffic right away,” Feeney says.

Just like in Cape Cod, sweatshirts in particular are a year-round staple.

“Even in the peak of summer our sweatshirts take the cake as top sellers,” Feeney explains, pointing The Lomas Brand has built a steady loyal following for its comfy coastal apparel in North San Diego County and beyond thanks to wholesale and online sales.

42 SEASIDE RETAILER SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2025

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S T Y L E T R E N D : AP PAR E L

to the beach-dyed crewneck in sage and the tradesman shirt jacket as standouts. Tees remain close behind, especially the North County Tee, a nod to the brand’s roots.

Feeney sees customers gravitating toward what he calls a “bold simplistic aesthetic.” The approach combines eye-catching design with everyday wearability — never too loud, but far from plain. Above all, comfort is the main driver in buying decisions.

“Comfort has evolved into being a must for a lot of our customers — and I would put myself in that category as well,” he says.

BREAD AND BUTTER

For Ocean Treasures in Padre Island, Texas, apparel is a souvenir first and

44 SEASIDE RETAILER SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2025

foremost. The store, which has been in business for 40 years, is the first gift shop visitors see as they cross the bridge to the beach — meaning

making up at least half of the store’s business. “That’s our bread and butter,” Shick says. The shirts in each store feature their location’s name

“Even in the peak of summer, our sweatshirts take the cake as top sellers.”

— SEAN FEENEY, THE LOMAS BRAND

nearly all of its customers (about 90%) are tourists, according to Erica Shick, who serves as office manager for Ocean Treasures and its two sister stores, Bo Jon’s Surf & Gift in Port Aransas, and Sea Treasures in Corpus Christi, Texas.

While Ocean Treasures carries a variety of items from wall decor and jewelry to toys and beach goods, apparel is central to the experience.

Souvenir T-shirts dominate sales,

drops: Padre Island, Port Aransas and Corpus Christi, which Shick says is exactly what vacationers are looking for. “That’s what I want when I go to other places … not just a shirt featuring a sea turtle, but one that has the name drop makes it a little more special.”

Shoppers will find a full rainbow of colors, from classic whites to purples, yellows and pinks, often priced at $5.99 or three for $15. Styles

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S T Y L E T R E N D : AP PAR E L

include T-shirts, hoodies, tanks, and popular performance fishing shirts, with sizes ranging from newborn to 3X. Tie-dye is another favorite.

and Vissla. Lopez says he has noticed that a throwback look is defining currently sales. “All of the big surf brands have been going back to the

“All of the big surf brands have been going back to the same trend, which is the late ’90s, early 2000s look.” — REN LOPEZ, THE BEACH STORE, PJ’S SURFRIDER AND BOARDWALK SPORTS

GOING RETRO

In Newport Beach, California, staying trendy is a priority for the beach and board crowds. Ren Lopez is an executive manager for several stores in the area, including The Beach Store, PJ’s Surfrider and Boardwalk Sports, where he oversees buying for branded lines such as Quiksilver, Billabong, RVCA, O’Neill, Volcom

46 SEASIDE RETAILER SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2025

same trend, which is the late ’90s, early 2000s look,” Lopez says. “Billabong is essentially almost doing a re-release. They had a T-shirt that was really popular for them around that era, and they just re-released it.

It’s like almost a time machine.”

Staples for the stores remain graphic T-shirts and board shorts.

Colors trending within the retro wave lean darker, with shades like brown and black as top sellers.

Business has been steady this year with a noted shift in who was buying at the stores. “The younger crowd was spending more money this year than the older crowd,” he reflects.

Between souvenir staples, comfort and style, your customers will have no shortage of apparel options to keep casual on a sunny day and stay comfortable as the cool fall nights start setting in.

ONLINE EXCLUSIVE: Find out how leading wholesale apparel brands are responding to trends with options that resonate with the coastal retailers at www.seasideretailer.com/rising-to-the-occasion.

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B U S I N E S S: C A S H F L O W

3 SIMPLE TWEAKS FOR CASH FLOW IMPROVEMENT Keep your business afloat with these simple strategies for improving cash flow.

t’s no secret that 2025 has come with its share of surprises and challenges. So many retailers, and businesses in general, are trying to navigate tariffs, tax increases, neighborhood changes, inflation, reduced traffic, and many other obstacles that seem to diminish cash flow. Now, more than ever, finding the best tools and techniques to maximize cash flow has to be a priority.

Thankfully, small adjustments can have an enormous impact on a business. These tweaks are easy to implement, and if done properly, will bring about tremendous change.

More importantly, these tweaks are the way to ensure your retail business has good cash flow in this or any economy. You don’t just do this once, you can revisit these strategies from time.

in such a way as to keep the cost of sales in line. Let’s tweak that and see the results.

First, a definition. “Selling cost” is defined as the percentage of your sales that go to pay for your salespeople.

The formula for this is Total Cost of Sales (which includes salaries plus commission) divided by Total Sales (without tax). As an example, if you have an employee whose payroll cost for last month is $1,700 and that employee sells $12,500, then the selling cost for that employee is $1,700/$12,500 = 13.6%.

Now, what if you put in a commission plan that keeps the sales at a good percentage, such as 9%? Try this — take the hourly wage for your employee and divide it by

TWEAK #1: ADJUSTING YOUR SELLING COST.

Most retail businesses operate on some form of base plus commission. This is an area that I find to be implemented poorly in many businesses. Many stores pay commissions on the first dollar sold (they should not be, the sales people should be required to hit a goal) and are not planned 50 SEASIDE RETAILER SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2025

ORIGINAL SITUATION

IMPROVED SITUATION

Revenue

$750,000

$750,000

Fixed Expenses

$172,500

$172,500

Variable Expenses

$142,500

$127,500

Profit before COGS

$435,000

$450,000

IMPROVEMENT

$15,000 www.seasideretailer.com

© ADOBE STOCK | SAHRAYA

I

STORY BY DAN JABLONS

B U S I N E S S: C A S H F L O W

0.09. That number is the employee’s hourly goal. For example, if you have an employee that is paid $10 per hour, divide $10 by 0.09 and you would get $111.00. That is what that employee has to sell each hour.

Now take that hourly goal and multiply it by the number of hours that person works in a week. If the employee works 30 hours, the goal is $3,330. As soon as they hit that goal in the week, you can pay them 9% of all sales above the $3,330. This gives

them incentive to sell, helps them earn great commissions, and keeps your selling cost low.

We did that in a store where annual sales were $750,000. With this approach, we lowered their selling cost by 2%, resulting in an extra $15,000 in cash to the bottom line.

TWEAK #2 – LOWERING YOUR PURCHASES.

We took a store and found ways to lower their inventory purchases by

ORIGINAL SITUATION

IMPROVED SITUATION

$750,000

$750,000

Purchases (%)

55%

53%

Purchases ($)

$412,500

$397,500

Gross Profit

$337,500

$352,500

Revenue

IMPROVEMENT

52 SEASIDE RETAILER SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2025

$15,000

2%. Look at the results in the chart on this page.

Yes, it’s another $15,000 improvement. This was not done by hacking 2% off of all orders unilaterally. It was done by determining which classes are “signature” classes for the store and which ones are carrying more inventory than they should.

This was done systematically, using all the tools of open-to-buy planning. Our overall goal was to cut purchases by 2%, but we had to figure out precisely how and where. If you aren’t using an open-to-buy plan to do this, investigate getting one.

TWEAK #3 – ADJUSTING YOUR MARKDOWNS.

Let me start this section by saying that there is no such thing as a

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B U S I N E S S: C A S H F L O W

ORIGINAL SITUATION

IMPROVED SITUATION

$750,000

$750,000

Markdown (%)

21%

19%

Markdown ($)

$157,500

$142,500

Gross Profit (%)

45.50%

46.50%

Gross Profit

$341,250

$348,750

Revenue

IMPROVEMENT

$7,500

“perfect buyer” and my retail customers have often heard me say that buying is the toughest job in the store. Having said that, there are some strategies we can use to reduce or limit the markdowns.

First, most independent retailers do not have a solid markdown strategy. Goods need to be given a sufficient time on the floor to sell, but after that they need to be identified as slow movers.

Markdowns are usually caused by the following: receipt of late goods, overbuying, inadequate department structure, bad forecasting, bad buying, overly broad assortment, bad performance on the sales floor and not reacting to early poor sellers.

We can develop strategies and measurements to reduce or control all of these. For example, if vendors ship late, we either get free shipping, markdown money, or we return the goods. Here’s the tweak for this one — let’s lower the markdowns by 2%. You can see the results.

CONCLUSION

By implementing all three tweaks, we get the following increase in cash: • Lowered selling cost by 2%= $15,000 • Lowered purchases by 2% = $15,000 • Lowered markdowns by 2% = $7,500 We produced $37,500 on a $750,000 business. And it didn’t come from a crazy new marketing idea, a revolutionary new line, or a magical new salesperson. It came from watching the numbers, not only based upon what happened but what we planned to happen and working with the buyers, the vendors and the store managers.

What if this was applied to your store? It’s truly worth a shot.

Through Retail Smart Guys, Dan Jablons helps independent retailers in 18 countries create great cash flow through planning. He can be reached at dan@retailsmartguys.com. www.seasideretailer.com

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2025 SEASIDE RETAILER 53

R E TAI L E R U P DAT E: Q U I E T F L I G H T

STORY BY MEGAN SMALLEY

Making a quick

COMEBACK

Quiet Flight, a surf shop franchise that was previously owned by Liberated Brands Group, has reopened its New Smyrna Beach, Florida, storefront.

F

or over 40 years, surfers and beach goers have enjoyed stopping in the Quiet Flight surf shop in New Smyrna Beach, Florida, for surfing gear, beach essentials and vacation mementos. Employees and community members all describe Quiet Flight as an iconic store that has served many guests over the years, helping locals and tourists alike to enhance their time in New Smyrna Beach.

But earlier this year, Quiet Flight had to shut its doors in New Smyrna Beach along with all of the other stores in its franchise when Liberated Brands filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy.

54 SEASIDE RETAILER SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2025

Manager Grant Hesse says there was a sense of disappointment among employees and the community when liquidation signs went up in the spring.

“A lot of people, lifelong customers and the community were heartbroken,” says Hesse, who has been with the store for six years.

“They’ve watched their kids grow up here, bought product here for most of their lifetime. So to see a staple in the community close took a lot of people by surprise.”

Just weeks after the store’s closure, the New Smyrna Beach location was sold back to private owners who renovated and reopened the shop April 10, giving the classic surf shop a modernized look and feel.

WAVES OF BUSINESS

Ajai Datta, new owner of Quiet Flight, says the surf shop has a long history in the community.

Quiet Flight was originally founded by Ed Leasure in 1972 as a surf shop in Cocoa Beach, Florida.

By the late 1970s, Leasure expanded and opened a 2,800-square-foot store in New Smyrna Beach. Over the years, Datta says the Quiet Flight business grew to about 15 franchise stores across the East Coast.

Datta shares that he began working for Quiet Flight in 1999, overseeing these East Coast surf shops. The stores were known for their surfboards as well as retail clothing from popular brands such as Billabong, Quiksilver and others. The franchise www.seasideretailer.com

R E TAI L E R U P DAT E: Q U I E T F L I G H T

“People were in awe seeing the new fixtures, the lighting and new product, but still the same familiar faces working.” — GRANT HESSE

Quiet Flight New Smyrna Beach gave its store a fresh look when it reopened.

Above from left: Grant Hesse, Ian Newland, Ajai Datta, Khaliel Gauntlett and Ashlynn Charters.

was sold to Billabong in 2008 for $40 million and later to Boardriders, which acquired Billabong in 2018.

In 2023, Authentic Brands Group acquired Boardriders, which then licensed the store’s operations to Liberated Brands. Datta says he had left the company shortly before the sale to Authentic Brands Group.

“I left the organization a little over two years ago, not part of this deal with the licensing group,” he says. “It wasn’t necessarily a bad thing they were doing. I left to focus on building my own journey. But Ed and I knew that if the lease was ever up on the New Smyrna Beach building, there could be opportunity for us to work together again.”

That opportunity came a little earlier than expected this spring. www.seasideretailer.com

When news came out about Liberated Brands’ bankruptcy, neither Leasure nor Datta wanted Quiet Flight to close its doors for good. While all other Quiet Flight stores had closed as of this year, Leasure still owned the building in New Smyrna Beach. Datta says he and Leasure reopened the surf shop and worked out a deal with Authentic Brands Group to keep the Quiet Flight name at the store.

SERVING THE SURF TOWN

For about a month, the Quiet Flight team spent long days renovating the shop to give it a fresh feel with new fixtures, fitting rooms and decor.

Hesse says the team hung classic surfboards on the ceiling and painted to give the store a modern touch.

Lighting was improved by the fitting rooms to make it more welcoming.

Rather than host a flashy celebration, Quiet Flight had a soft

reopening of the store by mid-April, hosting a larger event to celebrate in early August.

“We had a lot of good responses since reopening. People were in awe seeing the new fixtures, the lighting and new product, but still the same familiar faces working,” says Hesse.

The store continues to carry wellknown surf brands as well as some up-and-coming brands like Vuori and Duvin Design Co. Datta is also planning to open another retail surf shop in Waikiki, Hawaii, later this year. But as for Quiet Flight, he says he is hopeful it will retain its legacy as a community surf shop.

“The community watches over one another, and we also get a lot of customers who drive in from Orlando to visit the town. It’s a great beach and surf destination,” he says.

“Quiet Flight wants to continue to be customers’ favorite store in town, serving the community.”

The Quiet Flight name is front and center on the surf shop storefront, which is a recognizable name to the locals who shop at the store.

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2025 SEASIDE RETAILER 55

S T Y L E WAT C H : B E A C H B A G S

O

ne for you, one for me. Guests who peruse curated displays of home decor, apparel, accessories and more at OC (Our Cottage) Boutique in Ocean Township, New Jersey, go in with a gift-giving, treat-yourself approach to shopping.

As for beach bags, an enticing selection of styles, materials, colors and patterns begs the question: Why not buy another?

Owners Beth Conti and Kasey Pickett plant ideas for filling beach bags with practical goodies like towels and little luxuries such as jewelry. Storytelling displays suggest complementary products in similar colorways and themes.

OC Boutique in These thoughtful groupings Ocean Township, New inspire beach bag purchases Jersey, carries a wide selection of colorful beach if a customer is shopping for totes, which are displayed apparel — and trigger a knit prominenly near the windows to draw top or hat add-on for shoppers shopper attention. with beach bags in mind who discover so much more in the store.

Not to mention, The OC (as regulars call it) personalizes beach bags with monogram services. Orders take about a week, so it’s mostly an offering for the locals.

“During peak travel and beach season, our beach bags are front and center, and we help coordinate gifts,” says Conti, noting that customers also seek utility in a beach bag.

Barbara Tucker, a San DiegoSTORY BY KRISTEN HAMPSHIRE based store manager for Breeza Beachwear, with locations across Seaside retailers stock a variety of beach bags for practical Florida, Texas, California and the purchases, gifting, accessorizing and impulse.

Carolinas, says, “We stock a variety because customers need bags for the beach, they are here on vacation and some just collect bags — they want one from wherever they go.”

Tucker echoes Conti’s “bag more”

FOR THE BEACH AND BEYOND:

Beach Bags 56 SEASIDE RETAILER SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2025

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S T Y L E WAT C H: B E A C H B A G S

“We stock a variety because customers need bags for the beach, they are here on vacation and some just collect bags — they want one from wherever they go.”

— BARBARA TUCKER, BREEZA BEACHWEAR philosophy. “We have a huge selection of beach bags and they complement our offerings,” she says.

VIBRANT OPTIONS

Consumers gravitate toward beach bags made from sustainable materials like organic cotton, jute, raffia, recycled plastics and seagrass, Tucker says.

Conti observes a move toward boho styles. She and Pickett gather inspo from their twenty-something children and what they would personally want to purchase.

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“Our selection ranges from bright, colorful patterns to plain, sturdy canvas bags,” says Conti. “Everyone wants something different.”

A preference for organic doesn’t mean plain vanilla design, Tucker points out. Energetic seaside prints move fast at Breeza. Motifs range from sunflowers and Volkswagen Beetle patterns to tie-dye and stripes.

Name-drop totes also go over big.

BIG ON BAGS

Beach bags are highly personal and a style statement customers want to

STYLES TO STOCK

A wide range of styles, colors And sizes of beach bags and totes are toting popularity, including: boho textures, bright patterns, eco-friendly materials, name-drops, monogrammed options, collapsible styles and oversized designs.

own. Versatility and size are important features.

“Bigger is better than smaller,” Conti says. “People want to carry everything — a phone, towel, books.”

The takeaway: One beach bag does not fit all. Diversify.

Tucker says, “We have small bags, pretty big bags, and depending on what people are looking for, we help them find it here.”

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2025 SEASIDE RETAILER 57

M E R C H AN D I S I N G S P O T L I G H T: T O W E L S

STORY BY KRISTEN HAMPSHIRE

TIDE-TURNING

TOWEL

DISPLAYS The latest beach towels provide attractive display options and are packed with purpose and portability.

A Riviera Towel Company’s colorful array of Turkish beach towels decorate an entire wall in its Santa Barbara store.

58 SEASIDE RETAILER SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2025

vibrant floor-to-ceiling wall of 100% cotton Turkish beach towels on a custom display captures attention from passersby.

The showpiece entices beachgoers and tourists to get a second look of what’s in store at Riviera Towel Company store in the Sevilla Square hub of Santa Barbara, California.

Glass garage doors allow the colorful towel display to pop like art. In many ways, these towels are utilitarian fashion accessories and home decor pieces, doubling as decorative throws that make great gifts.

“We stage them on mannequins in the store windows as scarves, wraps and sarongs, and we roll them into neat tubes that are 10 inches long and 3 inches thick and display them in baskets or stands,” says Albert DiPadova, co-owner of Riviera Towel Company’s wholesale division.

On the wall, magnetic hangers on the display’s pulley system present the towels as if they’re airy flags, showing their larger-than-standard size: 70 inches by 40 inches.

Shannon DiPadova heads up the wholesaler’s flagship boutique, which has expanded to carry resortwear, beach bags and coastal lifestyle products by Merci, along with jewelry and handbags by ink+alloy. The towels lure in visitors who are inspired by the thoughtful displays.

Portable, packable, practical — these are just a few reasons seaside retailers should stock a variety of towels and display them to suggest multiple uses.

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M E R C H AN D I S I N G S P O T L I G H T: T O W E L S

“People really like the fact that they can use our Turkish towels as a wrap or blanket, and they look cute over a bathing suit because they can be tied in many different, fun ways.” — AMY CONNELLY, SHAKA LOVE

Shaka Love shows off some sustainable beach towels, rolled up in a wicker basket display.

Amy Connelly, owner of Shaka Love, a Laguna Hills, California-based business producing sustainable beach lifestyle products, says, “People really like the fact that they can use our Turkish towels as a wrap or blanket, and they look cute

60 SEASIDE RETAILER SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2025

over a bathing suit because they can be tied in many different, fun ways.”

Many times, the purchase is a necessity, adds Sarah Cullen, who owns the souvenir store B.I. Tees and gift boutique Solstice with her husband, John. The shops are next door to each other on Block Island, off the coast of Rhode Island. The vibes are completely different, along with the types of towels each store offers.

“In Solstice, people buy them for gifts and at B.I. Tees, it’s a needbased purchase because people forgot their towel or need an extra

one, along with some sunscreen,” says Cullen.

Christina Gray, founder of Beached, has introduced a new line of towels from Wild Delights featuring exclusive hand-drawn prints inspired by travel, nature and wildlife.

She compares the attractive utility of a beach towel to a kitchen cloth. She says, “They’re made to work but look really good while doing it.”

STOCKING A SELECTION

B.I. Tees is heavy in name drop, with most visitors seeking vacation

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TOWELS

STYLE FORECAST Practicality and style are purchase priorities for customers shopping for beach towels.

“They want something beautiful, functional and easy to roll up in a tote or weekender bag,” says Christina Gray, founder, Beached, a nature-inspired lifestyle brand offering coastal goods for modern adventurers.

The following are additional insights into the beach towel features that consumers are drawn to.

LIGHTWEIGHT WITH DRAPE: “There’s a shift toward multifunctional, lightweight fabrics that don’t compromise on softness,” Grays says, noting microfiber blends that dry fast and wash easy. Albert DiPadova, co-founder of Riviera Towel Company, points to 100% cotton hand-loomed Turkish towels that are prewashed for softness, durable, lightweight and absorbent.

VERSATILE USE: Beach towels with fringe detail add an air of craftsmanship and turn a towel into an accessory. “They can double as a shawl after swimming,” Gray says of the Seaside Sugar line. DiPadova advises retailers to display beach towels on mannequins as a sarong, scarf or easy throw-on.

PACKABLE CONVENIENCE: Appeal to customers with beach towels that are easy to roll up and transport without adding weight to luggage or a tote. “The compact fold is a favorite feature,” Gray says.

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2025 SEASIDE RETAILER 61

M E R C H AN D I S I N G S P O T L I G H T : T O W E L S

souvenirs and beach gear like towels and hats emblazoned with Block Island. “That store is everything Block Island, from T-shirts to stickers and drinkware,” Cullen says.

Customization rules, and there are a couple of ways this is accomplished, says Connelly. Shaka Love adds name drop to its available designs, ideal for lower minimum orders. “Also, we can completely create a scene or design of their choosing, which is woven into the design, not printed. This gives the towels a luxury, lush feel,” she says.

Aside from name-drop options, offering a range of beach towel price points allows customers to find reasonable items they want or need.

The Cullens offer 100% cotton terry and Turkish towels by A to Z Towels

62 SEASIDE RETAILER SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2025

at B.I. Tees and Solstice, but the boutique offering is more elevated and aligns with other brands in the shop, such as LOLA and Stephanie Wolf jewelry, Helly Hansen’s nautical-themed apparel and accessories, along with Coolibar and Johnnie-o.

At Solstice, Cullen displays towels in wicker baskets that inherently suggest a use beyond the beach.

In B.I. Tees, towels are rolled and tucked into a playful cooler display.

Both shops require daily restocking during the busy summer season.

Shannon DiPadova notices the time of year can also dictate customers’ towel color preferences. “We sell brighter colors during spring and summer and more neutrals in the fall and winter,” she says.

Albert says stocking colors is

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M E R C H AN D I S I N G S P O T L I G H T : T O W E L S

“inverted logic” because a rainbow is necessary for an attractive display that lures in customers. The same is true with towel patterns.

“There are standard designs that have been around forever and everyone loves them,” Albert says of the Essential slim-lined stripe.

Gray says towels that “tell a story and serve a purpose” include locally inspired designs that feature coastal wildlife or tropical foliage. “Offering variety in pattern and consistency in quality build trust with shoppers,” she says.

SALES STRATEGIES

Aside from creating merchandising moments with displays, engaging customers in conversation about how they’ll use the towels can help

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direct purchases, Shannon says.

“Most people are buying our towels for the beach, pool or outdoors, and we also sell them to people who will use them indoors,” she relates. “Others are looking for a souvenir or gift.”

Gray speaks to multi-use double towels for two. “These can be integrated in many areas of your life and are perfect for a picnic, boating, concerts and more,” she says.

Albert adds that offering “buy three, get $10 off ” deals always help to increase bag size as well.

Sustainability is an important selling point for retail customers who seek out products with a purpose, Connelly adds.

Shaka Love’s Turkish towels use 95% less water than a standard-loop towel — amounting to a 3,000-

Solstice displays beach towels along with complementary products like outdoor apparel and caps.

gallon savings per towel. Connelly says, “We are seeing more people gravitate toward wanting to make sure they are doing the right thing for the environment.”

SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2025 SEASIDE RETAILER 63

P R O D U C T T R E N D : H E ALT H & B E A U T Y

Mackenzie’s Fisherman Coconut Drift shampoo bar www.fishermanhandscrub.com

Fragrances of Ireland Rejuvenating body butter www.inis.com

Basking IN THE BEACH Pamper patrons with the scents and sensations of the sea.

Coconut Smuggler Feeling Nauti Salt Shield hair serum

www.coconutsmuggler.com

F

The Naked Bee Orange Blossom Honey Sunscreen

STORY BY KRISTIN ELY

rom the shores of Florida to the rocky coastline of Connecticut, coastal bathand-body retailers are riding a wave of demand for gentle, eco-friendly products.

Tourists, locals and online shoppers alike are seeking out skin-friendly soaps, nourishing after-sun care, and artisanal touches that make a gift or personal purchase feel special.

Coastal bath-and-body retail is about more than pretty packaging. Shoppers want skin-friendly formulas, natural ingredients, and products that connect them to the local flavor of their visit. They’re buying for themselves, but also for others — choosing gifts that are

www.nakedbee.com

True Ocean Coastal Eau de Parfum www.mytrueocean.com

Luxiny Cheerful Mango Papaya bath salts www.luxiny.com

The Beach Rooster Reef-friendly, tinted mineral sunscreen

www.thebeachrooster.com 64 SEASIDE RETAILER SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2025

The Grecian Soap Company Island Citrus olive oil soap www.greciansoap.com

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P R O D U C T T R E N D : H E ALT H & B E A U T Y

The Amelia Island Soap and Trading Co. provides a welcoming environment, and a feel-and-smell-good experience.

practical, beautiful, and easy to carry home.

At only 240 square feet, Lori Huppmann, owner of The Amelia Island Soap and Trading Co. in Fernandina Beach, Florida, may not have a large store, but her offerings sure do offer breadth of coverage for

66 SEASIDE RETAILER SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2025

those seeking soothing sea-inspired products for themselves and others.

Nothing hits the shelves at The Amelia Island Soap and Trading Co. without them first being personally tested by Huppmann herself.

Huppmann purchased a friend’s Hawaiian online soap store in 2020 and opened a storefront that May. Two years later she rebranded complete with a logo featuring a mermaid.

“It fits the brand. It fits the place,” she says. “We like to cater to our customers. We like to create an environment that’s welcoming and smells good and just a place where you want to visit.”

Her product mix is as varied as a beachcomber’s haul: goat milk soap, shea butter bars, shampoo and

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P R O D U C T T R E N D : H E ALT H & B E A U T Y

conditioner bars, bubble bars, and sea sponge soaps from Florida’s Tarpon Springs. She continues to carry plenty of highly sought-after Hawaiian-made skin care products in addition to her own branded products. Many items come from other small makers.

Huppmann says the goat milk soap is “the most gentle soap that we carry,” noting it’s the only soap that soothes her own sensitive skin. The store’s goat milk soap hails from The Grecian Soap Company in Temecula, California. And to add a special seaside touch, many of the soap bars feature sea life on them, from sea turtles to dolphins.

Skin sensitivity is also a factor that goes into the products that Susanne Valerino, owner of Main Street Soap Emporium in Mystic, Connecticut, stocks. “Nothing’s overpowering. Everything is for sensitive skin,” she

CREATING A TRIBE Coastal specialty stores are seeking out ways to increase personal connection to the products they carry, and sunscreen is no exception.

Maggie Raymond founded the sunscreen brand Beach Rooster with her father, Jeff Raymond, who lives with ongoing skin cancer.

Unlike chemical sunscreens that absorb into the skin and the ocean, The Beach Rooster’s tinted mineral formula sits on top of the skin, creating a barrier from harmful rays with non-nano zinc oxide. “Our goal was to create a product that is reef-friendly, but also high performing,” says Maggie.

She and her father would often visit her brother in Maui where restrictions on harmful sunscreens were being introduced. “We wanted to create a product that didn’t leave a thick white cast, so we started formulating. It took three years to fully launch our daily tinted SPF specifically designed for your face,” she says.

Jeff has had many skin cancer removal surgeries over the years and Maggie says, when they first started the brand four years ago, mineral sunscreens were lacking, but that is no longer the case. “We are working hard to stand out from the rest and really try to create a ‘tribe’ of folks who resonate with our story at the grassroots level.”

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SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2025 SEASIDE RETAILER 67

P R O D U C T T R E N D : H E ALT H & B E A U T Y

says of the product she carries in her 400-square-foot prime storefront space. Shoppers are increasingly aware of ingredients and often ask

aloe vera to soothe sun-kissed skin, she explains.

In Mystic, Valerino’s best-selling after-sun product is Mackenzie’s

“My goal is simple — I want people to feel good when they leave.” — Susanne Valerino, Main Street Soap Emporium where and how items are made, favoring small-batch, U.S.-crafted lines, she notes.

AFTER-SUN ESSENTIALS

In seaside towns, the sun also drives sales for health and beauty products.

Huppmann can’t keep her Maui Vera natural sunscreen and after-sun gel in stock. “Every year I stock up on the after-sun gel and I sell out right away,” she says. Customers like the plant-based formula, which features

68 SEASIDE RETAILER SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2025

Sand and Sea Dry Oil, a lightly scented moisturizer that customers find both nourishing and quick to absorb. Mackenzie’s coastal scents, including its signature Sand and Sea and kelp soap, are steady favorites for vacationers, both men and women alike, wanting to take a bit of the beach home.

DRIFTING TOWARD GIFTING

Both owners report strong sales in soaps and related products as gifts.

Travelers often choose a locally purchased soap or lotion over traditional souvenirs, drawn by the practical use and artisanal quality.

Valerino says many customers are even skipping the wine bottle as a party gift and instead bringing “a soap and a lotion for the host.” Her store also creates mini soaps with custom labels for weddings, showers and events. Meanwhile, Huppmann’s shop draws repeat visitors who seek out her sea sponge soaps, a natural option that doesn’t harbor bacteria like synthetic sponges.

UNIQUE COASTAL FINDS

Part of the appeal of shopping at a soap store in a coastal town is discovering something unexpected. At The Amelia Island Soap and Trading

www.seasideretailer.com

Main Street Soap Emporium in Mystic, Connecticut, has a loyal following of customers seeking unique coastal products to pamper themselves or to gift to someone special.

Co., “gently loved” Hawaiian shirts have become a surprise hit alongside the soap displays. The shirts, repurposed and resold, are a low-cost, high-charm souvenir that adds to the shop’s coastal personality.

Valerino finds her customers love soap loofahs, a combined bar-and-exfoliator she says people are “fascinated with.” These func-

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tional, beach-friendly finds combine practicality with a bit of indulgence.

While coastal towns bring heavy tourist traffic in peak season, both owners say their customer base is a mix. Tourists provide impulse sales and gift purchases, while locals and online shoppers sustain them yearround. Seasonal promotions help bridge the slower winter months

by encouraging repeat orders from loyal customers.

From after-sun care and goat milk soap to natural sea sponges and soap loofahs, the products making the biggest splash are those that balance function with a sensory connection to the shore. As Valerino puts it, “My goal is simple — I want people to feel good when they leave.”

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E V E N T S C AL E N DAR

SA VE

Oct. 14-17 The Gathering Orlando, Florida www.thegathering event.com/east Oct. 21-24 Dallas Apparel & Accessories Dallas www.dallasmarket center.com

Sept. 9-10 New England Made Giftware & Specialty Food Shows Boxborough, Massachusetts www.nemadeshows.com Sept. 16-18 Atlanta Fall Market Atlanta www.atlantamarket.com Sept. 16-18 Dallas Total Home & Gift Market Dallas www.dallasmarket center.com Sept. 16-19 Las Vegas Souvenir & Resort Gift Show Las Vegas www.lvsouvenirshow.com Sept. 25 Coast Collective Ocean City, Maryland www.coastcollective show.com

OCTOBER Oct. 3-5 GTS Greensboro Expo Greensboro, North Carolina www.gtshows.com Oct. 4-6 Trendz West Palm Beach, Florida www.trendzshow.com Oct. 5-7 Minneapolis Mart Home & Gift Show Minnetonka, Minnesota www.mplsmart.com Oct. 6-7 Seattle Mart Fall Show Seattle www.seattlemart.com

Oct. 28-30 Northern New England Gift & Souvenir Show Bartlett, New Hampshire northern-new-englandgift-and-souvenir-show. ueniweb.com

NOVEMBER Nov. 4-6 International Gift Exposition in the Smokies Sevierville, Tennessee www.iges.us

DECEMBER Dec. 7-10 Grand Strand Gift & Resort Merchandise Show Myrtle Beach, South Carolina www.grandstrandgift show.com

DA TE

Sept. 4-6 Surf Expo Orlando, Florida www.surfexpo.com

Sept. 28-29 Coast Collective Pittsburgh www.coastcollective show.com

Nov. 16-18 Ocean City Resort Gift Expo Ocean City, Maryland www.oceancitygift show.com

E

SEPTEMBER

Oct. 22-24 Panama City Beach Resort Show Panama City, Florida www.pinnacle-shows.com

Nov. 10-12 Atlanta Market Fall Cash & Carry Atlanta www.atlantamarket.com

TH

Panama City Beach Resort Show

Nov. 5-8 Smoky Mountain Gift Show Gatlinburg, Tennessee www.smokymtngift show.com

SA VE

OCT. 22-24

Nov. 5-8 International Gift Exposition in the Smokies Pigeon Forge, Tennessee www.iges.us

Oct. 6-8 CMC LA Market Week Los Angeles www.californiamarket center.com/lamarketweek

NOV. 16-18 © ADOBE STOCK

TH

E

DA TE

Oct. 14-17 Atlanta Apparel Atlanta www.atlanta-apparel.com

Ocean City Resort Gift Expo

70 SEASIDE RETAILER SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2025

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EVENTS COVERAGE

CARV Expo energizes attendees at debut show

CARV Expo (California Action Retailer + Venture), the country’s only West Coast action sports trade show and industry gathering, debuted this June at the San Diego Convention Center, officially putting down roots in the home of the boardsports industry. In its inaugural year, the CARV team introduced a fresh collaborative format to the typical trade show model, hosting more than 100 brands and hundreds of retailers.

“CARV provided the platform for reps from our brands to connect faceto-face with key specialty retailers at a very important time for our industry,” said exhibitor Dylan Slater, CEO of Outerknown apparel, Firewire Surfboards and Slater Designs. “There was great energy — it was a real tailwind towards the success of our Spring/Summer 26 seasonal launch.”

CARV was launched explicitly to foster innovation within an industry on the cusp of another golden era, according to show organizers. Over three days, attendees wrote orders, caught up with old friends, debated strategy and discovered brands shaping the industry today.

“We made it clear very early on in the process of building this show that CARV Expo was a blank canvas, meant to be built around the needs, the challenges, the hopes and fears of surfers, surf shop owners, upstarts and aging brands,” explained CARV Founder Josh Rifkin. “We listened. A lot! It was amazing to walk this show that was essentially conceptualized by the brand and retail leaders within the industry itself. Such a fun weekend.”

Rifkin pointed to things like fair and simple pricing as being the difference maker for many attendees, especially growing brands.

CARV Expo 2026 will take place a little earlier next year, from Thursday, May 14 through Friday, May 15 again at the San Diego Convention Center.

Buying surges at August Atlanta Apparel

ANDMORE’s August 2025 Atlanta Apparel and Formal Markets concluded a week of cross-category sourcing and industry connection at AmericasMart Atlanta.

The combined markets attracted buyers from across the United States and internationally, including successive days of order writing for Autumn/Winter 2025 alongside early commitments for Spring/Summer 2026.

“This August market season delivered success in every category, solidifying Atlanta as a can’t-miss destination across apparel and formal categories,” said Caron Stover, ANDMORE senior vice president, apparel.

Attendees traveled to Atlanta from 48 states and 26 international countries.

The next Atlanta Apparel market runs Oct. 14–17, 2025.

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Atlanta Market unites industry with strong sourcing options

The summer 2025 edition of Atlanta Market brought renewed momentum and a sense of solidarity to the gift, home and outdoor industries July 15-21, welcoming buyers and sellers from across the globe to AmericasMart Atlanta. The co-location with Casual Market Atlanta further expanded sourcing opportunities, too.

“In a climate shaped by shifting economic conditions, our focus remains clear: investing in the buyer experience and creating meaningful opportunities for growth among buyers and sellers,” said Jon Pertchik, CEO of ANDMORE. The summer 2025 Atlanta Market drew a diverse audience of domestic and international buyers, including a solid attendance from the Southeast, Midwest and Western United States, as well as a sustained Canadian and Latin American presence. The show offered more than 1,000 permanent showrooms and nearly 1,000 temporary exhibits, giving buyers resources for new product discovery.

The next Atlanta Market is Jan. 13-19, 2026.

www.seasideretailer.com

EVENTS COVERAGE

Summer 2025 Las Vegas Market spurs trend discovery among buyers

Las Vegas Market’s summer 2025 edition delivered a dynamic sourcing experience fueled by fresh products, strategic connection and design-driven storytelling.

With more than 3,500 product lines spanning permanent showrooms and temporary exhibits, the event affirmed its role as a vital platform for commerce and community.

In temporary presentations, The Gift & Home Temporaries in the Expo at World Market Center Las Vegas boasted about 450 brands this July to provide exciting discovery of budding names in the industry. New exhibitors identified a strong community within the temporaries and enthusiasm from buyers as a key highlight of the week.

Las Vegas Market will return for its winter edition, running from Jan. 25-29, 2026, at World Market Center Las Vegas.

74 SEASIDE RETAILER JULY-AUGUST 2025

Buyers express optimism at Summer 2025 Dallas Total Home & Gift Market

Dallas Market Center opened the summer show season with retailer optimism and steady order writing across the marketplace during its Total Home & Gift Market, June 18-24.

The show welcomed thousands of independent retail decisionmakers from coast to coast and internationally, as well as a large number of major retailers and buying groups.

“We were extremely pleased with the show given the shifting economic and global trade conditions,” said Cindy Morris, president and CEO of Dallas Market Center. “Not only did retailers arrive in force but they were optimistic and eager to place orders, especially with exhibitors who had in-stock items or new products. The consistent message we heard from exhibitors was that the show ‘exceeded their expectations.”

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PRODUCT SHOWCASE

On our radar

Looking for something new to offer? Here are some fresh ideas.

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4 5

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1. Evelyn and Kate: Cheerful Double Lemon with Marigold tote, www.evelynandkate.com; 2. Joseph K. & Co.: Miami name-drop beach Santa ornament, www.josephk.com; 3. Independent Puppy: Lobster and seagull notecards and stationery, www.independentpuppy.com; 4. FIrst & Main: Soft stuffed iguanas, www.firstandmain.com; 5. Bali Queen: Island sunset keychain, www.baliqueen.com; 6. Green Mountain Games: Sand Dollars Dice Game, www.greenmtngames. com; 7. Cream Cornwall: Velvet beaded jellyfish pouch bag, www.creamcornwall.com; 8. The Petting Zoo: Sea turtle plush with pink animal carrier purse, www.pettingzooplush.com.

Have a product you would like featured? Send a high-res image and description to: katie@breakwallpublishing.com.

76 SEASIDE RETAILER SEPTEMBR-OCTOBER 2025

www.seasideretailer.com

LAST LOOK

Perched on Staten Island’s

The gift shop at the National Lighthouse Museum on Staten Island is the

waterfront, the National

first and final stop for visitors looking to take a piece of the maritime world

Lighthouse Museum tells the story of how lighthouses once guided ships — and

home. From detailed lighthouse models and nautical-themed apparel for all, guests get a peek at gifts and souvenirs when they buy their tickets for

saved lives — along Ameri-

the museum or ferry experiences. Everyone returns at the end to browse

ca’s coastlines. It’s housed in

the store and purchase ornaments, books, apparel and souvenirs of all kinds

the former U.S. Lighthouse

that can fit into their carry-on bag.

Service’s central depot, and this nautical museum and gift shop brings maritime his-

The shop is a place of small discoveries. Lighthouse enthusiasts, historians and casual tourists can often find something to take home and share.

tory to life with models and

Merchandise is intended to invite visitors to stay connected to the muse-

artifacts. Visitors explore the

um’s story long after they’ve left the exhibit floor.

legacy of lighthouse keepers and coastal navigation in an engaging setting that inspires curiosity.

Every T-shirt, hat and tote guests purchase is wearable advertising, points out Linda Dianto, executive director.

“Visitors can take home items as a gift or memento, and their purchases help us raise funds to keep the lights on,” Dianto says of what’s literally a monumental effort.

78 SEASIDE RETAILER SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2025

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AD INDEX A to Z Towels — www.atoztowels.com................................. 60 A.T. Storrs Ltd. — www.atstorrs.com....................................... 9 American Gift Corp. — www.agiftcorp.com.......................... 71 American Style Sunglasses — www.amstyle.us.................27 Atlanta Market — www.atlantamarket.com/gift...............75 Bali Queen — www.baliqueen.com................................. 48-49 Bamboo Source Tropical Decor — www.bambootropicaldecor.com......................................31 Bamboo Trading Co. — www.bambootradingcompany.com.................................57 Brielle’s Shells — www.briellesshells.com..........................15 Buddy by the Sea — www.buddybythesea.com................ 43 Butler Hill & Co. — www.butlerhill.net.................................61 Cape Shore — www.cape-shore.com......................................5 Capsmith Inc. — www.capsmith.com....................................21 Coconut Smuggler — www.coconutsmuggler.com............67 Country Home Creations — www.chcdips.com..................37 Cream Cornwall — www.creamcornwall.co.uk................... 63 Dune Jewelry & Co. — www.dunejewelry.com....................13 Fancy That Gift & Decor — www.fancythatgift.com..........61 Fiesta Toy — www.fiestatoy.com..............................................3 First & Main — www.firstandmain.com................................. 17 Impulse Souvenirs — www.impulsesouvenirs.com......... 83 Independent Puppy — www.independentpuppy.com.... 38 Inis the Energy of the Sea — www.inis.com....................... 65 Jackie Gallagher Designs — www.jackiegallagherdesigns.com................................... 36 JD Yeatts/Chesapeake Bay — www.jdyeatts.com.............23 Joseph K. Coastal — www.josephk.com............................... 62 Kurt S. Adler — www.kurtadler.com......................................25 La Leela — www.happy-bay.com............................................47 Las Vegas Market — www.lasvegasmarket.com................79 LaserGifts — www.lasergifts.com...........................................19

Lighthouse Keeper’s Pantry — www.lighthousekeeperspantry.com................................53 Living in Glass Houses — www.livinginglasshouses.com..........................................53 Lotus and Luna — www.lotusandluna.com........................ 45 Ocean City Resort Gift Show — www.oceancitygiftshow.com.............................................73 Ocean Jewelry — www.flaircraftportal.com/ocean......... 29 Panama City Beach Gift Show — www.pinnacle-shows.com.................................................74 Patsy Kane — www.patsykane.com...................................... 62 Pearls and Camo — www.pearlsandcamo.com..................41 Pink Pineapple Shop — www.pinkpineapplewholesale.com................................ 44 Powder Pouch — www.powderpouch.com......................... 66 Seaside Retailer — www.seasideretailer.com.........7, 68, 80 Shaka Love — www.shakalove.eco....................................... 59 ShipShapeStyles — www.shipshapestyles.com................52 Smoky Mountain Gift Show www.smokymtngiftshow.com...........................................81 Stickers Northwest — www.stickersnorthwest.com.......... 6 Stonington Designs — www.stoningtondesigns.com...... 35 Surf Expo — www.surfexpo.com.............................................77 The Beach and Back — www.thebeachandback.com............................................ 39 The Beach Rooster — www.thebeachrooster.com........... 68 The Grecian Soap Co. — www.greciansoap.com............... 69 The Petting Zoo — www.pettingzooplush.com..................51 The RGU Group — www.thergugroup.com......................10-11 The Wind Free — www.thewindfree.com..............................52 Town Pride — www.townpride.com.........................................2 TownWear — www.mytownwear.com................................... 46 Wild Republic — www.shop.wildrepublic.com.................. 84

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S TAR F I S H AWAR D

Winner: Little Anchor Boutique Location: East Falmouth, MA Owner: Ariana Kerrigan

Anchored in the community

R

STORY BY KRISTEN HAMPSHIRE

etail therapy is self-care — and anything that makes customers feel “meh” (scratchy denim, itchy sweaters) isn’t in the mix at Little Anchor Boutique in East Falmouth, Massachusetts. “You belong here,” says owner Ariana Kerrigan, who started the business 11 years ago from her guest bedroom.

Today, the boutique’s community outreach is just as defining as its beachy kaftans and local gift selec-

tion. Nestled in Bishop’s Plaza, Little Anchor is “local famous,” living up

“Being based on Cape Cod, we have made it our mission to give back to this community.”

— ARIANA KERRIGAN to its namesake’s maritime symbol of stability and connection.

MEMORABLE MOMENTS

Kerrigan’s efforts to anchor in the community include an annual prom dress giveaway, offering up to 60 dresses to high schoolers. The event includes the full boutique experience, with dressing room fanfare and heartfelt moments. “These dresses can cost $400 to $600, and that didn’t sit well with me,” she says.

Locals donate gently used gowns.

“It’s a wildly emotional day,” KerriCustomers feel at home with the store’s selection of coastal slippers, drinkware and more. Photos: Bryan Stearns

SPONSORED BY:

gan adds. “There are mothers and girls in tears.”

One note from a resident struck her deeply: “I wish you were around when I was in high school. I was a girl who couldn’t afford a dress. This means a lot.”

ON A MISSION

Kerrigan also hosts monthly “shop for a cause” events and an annual “adult prom” that raises funds for Tommy’s Place, a nonprofit that provides magical Cape Cod vacations for children with cancer. Little Anchor’s events have raised nearly $100,000.

“Being based on Cape Cod, we’ve made it our mission to give back to this community,” Kerrigan says. “I’m just happy to be a small part of it.”

Starfish Awards recognize retail stores in our industry that are making a difference through charitable donations and efforts. Is your store worthy of an award? We’d love to hear from you! Complete an entry form at www.seasideretailer.com/starfish-award.

82 SEASIDE RETAILER SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2025

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