Retail Merchandising Insights

Peevish Customer Service

Posted onAuthorericw@specialtystoreservices.com

Pet peeves. We’ve all got them. Cars that swerve into our lane without the courtesy of a turn signal. When people say “I could care less” instead of the correct “I couldn’t care less” (and don’t even get me started on “irregardless”). Store clerks who are more interested in talking to co-workers about their personal lives than helping the customers. Hmmm. Let’s expound on the latter peeve, shall we?

Let’s be honest. There is a lot of competition out there so it’s important to put our best foot forward at all times. What do we do to attract and keep customers? We stock our stores with merchandise that people want and price that merchandise competitively. We try to make our place of business appealing to customers by keeping it clean and organized. We hire staff who are courteous, friendly, honest and, if not knowledgeable right off the bat, at least eager to learn. Let me tell you, the experience customers have with the staff can be the difference between “This place was nice and I’ll come here again” and “I am going to tell everyone I know just how rude the help is at this place!” Here is an important fact: people are much more likely to talk about a negative experience they’ve had than a positive one.

So what can business owners and their employees do to ensure customers have a pleasant experience, as far as customer service goes? First off, smile. A smile can go a long way. I recall times when I’ve stopped into a store worn out, cranky and longing for home, and a cashier with a warm, sincere smile and sincere “How are you doing today?” honestly gave me a little pick-me-up. Also, people like to be acknowledged. When someone walks into a store, being greeted with eye contact, a smile and “Hello! What can I help you find today?” is very pleasant. We like to know that there is someone available to help us when and if we need the help buuuuuuut…we don’t want to be stalked while walking around the store. Regarding eye contact; people are less likely to shoplift if the staff makes eye contact with them because direct eye contact is a distinct indication of the staff’s attention. It’s true. I wouldn’t lie to you.

Another thing that is important is tone of voice. Studies have proven that the tone in which something is said is more important than the actual words spoken. Think about that. You can hear in a person’s tone of voice if they are angry, happy, sarcastic, combative, etc. Smile when you answer the phone. The person on the other end will be able to hear it and will respond to it. One thing your customers do not want to hear is chatter about an employee’s lying spouse or financial trouble, how much a coworker is disliked, how drunk someone was at a party and any other number of topics that are not appropriate for discussion while helping customers.

The focus of the employees should be on the customers. Period. Those customers are the reason we are in business and that is something owners and employees need to remember at all times. No one wants to be rung up, basically ignored by the cashier until he or she barks out the total and then barely receive a “thank you” because said cashier is too busy gossiping or talking on the phone to provide quality service. Save the talk about personal and operational issues for home or the break room. And I say that with a smile.

It’s in the Bag

Posted onAuthorericw@specialtystoreservices.com

A bag is a bag is a bag, right? Au contraire, mon frere! Just as your window display or entryway give customers the first impression of your store, the bag you send home with them gives the last impression. No, I’m not saying that you need to spend big bucks on some fancy-shmancy bags, I’m just suggesting that it is a good idea to put more thought into the bag selection process than “Meh. I guess this bag will do.” Let’s explore some options to help make the decision a bit easier.

Paper or plastic? That’s one of the big questions nowadays. It is possible to get quality bags either way you go. Let’s start with the plastic options. The most common bag that we all see is called a t-shirt bag. You know, the type with handles that the majority of grocery stores use. These bags are 100% recyclable, economical and come in a wide variety of colors, weights and sizes. Plain white is popular but black is gaining in popularity, not only because it provides a bit of privacy for one’s purchases but it’s also a hip yet classic color. You can thank your customers all the way home by investing in “thank you” bags. These bags are available in white or black and the white bags also have the option of a happy smiley face. Color t-shirt bags in blue, green or red are also fun and are especially appropriate if the colors match or complement your business’ color motif. Frosted shopping bags or merchandise bags with handles are a stylish option in plastic bags. So you see, plastic bags are functional and can be attractive but some customers perceive paper bags to be a little more polished than plastic.

Paper shopping bags with twisted paper handles are attractive and stand upright on their flat bottoms when unfolded which makes it a snap to bag items at checkout. These modish yet functional bags are available in classic kraft and in white as well as a wide variety of sophisticated colors. And, as if they weren’t already terrific in their own right, the paper shopping bags are also super easy to personalize. Just place an appealing and eye-catching custom label on the sides of the bags and you’ve got yourself some stylish bags that do double-duty as advertisements! Don’t have access to a printer? Not a problem. Custom labels can be created for you! If you need something just a little more basic than shopping bags there is a variety of natural kraft paper bags and colored merchandise bags for you to choose from. Feel like getting fancy? Pop a little tissue paper into the top of the bag to give it a festive and fun appearance. Now let’s think outside the disposable bag.

What about reusable shopping bags? These non-woven polypropylene tote bags are water-resistant and washable so they can be used over and over, perfect for those customers who don’t care for paper or plastic. The reusable bags come in a variety of popular colors and can also be custom printed with your store’s information. So, not only will customers actually purchase these bags from you, they will actually be advertising your store every time they reuse the bag!

I, personally, am torn between paper and plastic. Both types are recyclable, which I think is important for the environment. The reason I like to receive plastic bags while shopping is because I use them for other things after unpacking my purchases, like cleaning the cat box or as small trashcan liners. I also enjoy receiving paper shopping bags because I like to use small bags for toting my lunch and larger bags for easy handling when I’m carrying items one-way, like to Goodwill or to a party. And here’s the thing: when I reach for a bag to reuse, the store that I received it from pops into my head. What I’m saying is, even after you send your customers home, many of them still hang on to your bags to reuse rather recycle them which is why “Meh. I guess this bag will do” maybe should be “Which bag do I want my customers to associate with my business?”

Retail Store Presentation: What is Your Store Saying?

Posted onAuthorericw@specialtystoreservices.com

What is the appearance of your store telling your customers? Are smudges on the door and front windows yelling “Hi! We’re messy and unprofessional”? Is your clean floor stating “My owner cares enough to vacuum me”? Is there clutter on your cash wrap or register counter saying “We’re so disorganized”? Your store may be speaking volumes without you knowing it! Let’s put on our retail merchandising hats and figure out what your store may be saying.Take a few minutes to look at your store from a customer’s perspective from the beginning to the end of their visit. The entrance is your first chance to impress the customer. When you walk in the door are the glass and the handle sparkling clean or are they a hotbed of germs? Is there a clean floor mat just inside the doorway to keep dirt and water off your floor? To ensure you are presenting a professional image from the get-go, take a peek in your windows to make sure there are no burnt out bulbs or any dust bunnies lurking in your window display or on the sills. Think about what pleases you when you first walk into a store, or even before you walk into the store.

After surveying the entryway, take a stroll around the store. Are your shelves and racks stocked and organized? Make sure that your items are priced and that sale signs are attractive, legible and prominently displayed. If you have fitting rooms, are the mirrors and floors clean? Are there ample hooks for customers to hang their selections in the fitting rooms?

Let’s go check out. The check out counter should not be where old notes and broken pens go to die, nor is it the place to keep potato chips while you nibble throughout the day. You want to convey a professional and clean environment, the image that you and your store are reliable and responsible, so make sure the counter is not cluttered, dirty or chipped. A good cleaner can wipe up any dirt, spilled drinks or icky tape residue. Information for staff reference should be out of the customer’s line of vision, ideally in a binder or behind the counter. However, some things you may want your customers to see are information about your upcoming promotions and return/exchange policies. This should be one of the few places in the store where your signage can be more detailed than “sale” signs. Take advantage of your captive audience and let them know what else you have to offer!

So, are you satisfied with what your store is telling people? If so, well done! If not, don’t be discouraged. Every day brings a new learning experience and now is your chance to make some positive changes! Retail merchandising and presentation can be a challenge but if approached creatively, cleverly and with enthusiasm, it can also be very profitable and rewarding.

Organizing for Easy Shopping

Posted onAuthorericw@specialtystoreservices.com

Not all of us are gifted with organization skills. Sure, some of us have our own brand of “organized.” We can tell you what’s in each mountainous stack of paper on our desk or direct you to the calculator (which we last saw in the closet… or maybe on the shoe rack) but do your customers want to search and guess while shopping? That’s a big “No!” They don’t want to work for their purchase and so are more likely to revisit your store if their shopping experience is made easy for them.

If someone is dashing in on their lunch break or running errands in between chauffeuring the kids from Point A to Point B, they don’t have the time to sift through items to find what they need. Be sure to walk through the store periodically to straighten shelves, untangle hangers and put misplaced product back where it belongs. When straightening clothing racks make sure that the clothes are all sorted sequentially by size so your customers can locate, grab and go.

You can also help make the shopping experience easier by grouping together items that are commonly purchased together. For instance, if you are selling cell phones, it would be a good idea to have the phone protective covers on display near the appropriate phones rather than having all the covers displayed together on one rack. This way the customer won’t have to search the rack for the cover that will fit their phone. Think about what your customers purchase together and see if you can group items without interrupting the flow of your store or creating multiple displays for the same item. You get the idea.We all enjoy a challenge (to a certain extent) but most of us don’t care for running obstacle courses while running errands. Are your aisles clear of boxes or do customers need to sidestep around your incoming shipment or stocker? Stocking is absolutely necessary, of course, but it’s best to do your stocking during the slower part of your day, or even before or after hours of operation. If you do need to restock or accept deliveries during business hours, just remember to keep things orderly. Think about using a work cart to keep boxes off the floor to minimize tripping hazards. A cart with a large work space and supply drawer can keep you organized and mobile while stocking.

And make sure your customers are still getting the service and attention they need even when you or your staff are busy restocking! But that’s a blog for another day.

Indoor Signage to Snag Sales

Posted onAuthorericw@specialtystoreservices.com

Okay, so you’ve got potential customers in your door. Now what? Where would you like them to go and what do you want them to purchase in particular?

Direct buyers to your sale or featured product racks with an attractive Acrylic Sign Holder with Chrome Base placed on top of your display shelf or rack shelf. A satisfied customer says it is “even better than pictured.” You can choose Printable Fluorescent Card Signs to print your own signs on your printer and place in the sign holder. These cards come in rainbow packs with 25 sheets each of red, yellow, green and magenta that really pop! As endearing as the home made sign created by your 9 year old daughter may be, you’ll want to make sure your sign conveys a professional look so printing them on your personal printer is a good idea. Remember to use a large font and keep the wording to a minimum to attract and keep your customer’s attention. If you don’t have a printer you can always take your computer file to a print shop. Or you can choose from a variety of eye-catching preprinted signs such as a “Sale” sign in brilliant red with white print.

The Freestanding Sign Holder is another good way to convey your store’s news to your customers. At 22”x28” and 56 ½” tall and chrome plated, it is sure to garner some attention. Pop in a Custom Sign in attractive, contrasting colors which not only communicate your message but your choice of colors and artwork will convey the tone of your store. Or choose a preprinted “Sale” or “Clearance” 22″x28″ sign if that’s all you need to say.

Creative placement of this sign holder can draw people into your store, relate sale information while they are shopping or let them know about up-coming in-store promotions or contests while they are waiting in line. Make sure the sign does not block displays, traffic flow or the interior view of your store if placed in a window or door. Take a look at your store with fresh eyes to see what your customers see. Is the sign informative but to the point? If placed in the window, can you see the sign with sunlight reflecting off the window? Get creative! Hang signs from the ceiling with a Chain Kit. Having a huge sale? Use a Blow-Out or Sale Sign Kit that includes 22 different pieces in bright red/yellow. Use your imagination and you’ll see that quality signage and proper placement can make a big impact on your sales. Have fun and happy selling!

Snappy Signage = Interested Customers

Posted onAuthorericw@specialtystoreservices.com

So, you need some snappy signage but lack the time or handiness to whip them up on your own. Let us create the signs and banners for you!

Custom banners numbers 9031, 4500, 4503 and 4504 come in a variety of sizes and colors and can be used both indoors and outdoors. Simply fax or email us your layout and our art department will create a professionally finished sign or banner. Pre-printed “Sale” signs are also a fantastic way to gain attention. I personally know several people who, due to the current economic climate, hesitate to shop unless they know the items of interest are on sale. That’s where our eye-catching red and yellow signs come in! Hang signs with this bold color combination in your window to announce your “Sale” or “50% off” with Vertical Window Sale Signs. A customer states, “Great, large, eye-catching signs. Easy to mount with the suction cups, looks great in my store windows.” These 24”W x 48”H signs with bright color contrast are sure to grab the attention of drivers and strollers alike.

If your style is more understated yet spirited then you may want to consider our elegant Fabric “Sale” Banner. The heavy cotton duck fabric is dyed a rich red color and has “Sale” printed on it in bright white letters in a bold font. A happy customer says, “It looks VERY polished and blends well with our environment.” Hemmed pockets on the top and bottom of the banner make it a breeze to hang on Banner Stand. The same customer raves, “I originally purchased this stand to show a sale sign. But when the sign arrived, I loved it so much I’m going to use it to communicate other big events in the boutique.” Check out the customer photo to see how she made this beautiful sign pop and complement her storefront.

Catch my next blog when we explore sign placement and the effectiveness of indoor signage!

Protect your items with shrinkwrap coverings

Posted onAuthorericw@specialtystoreservices.com


Have you ever tried out shrink wrap covering? It is perhaps one of the most commonly used items for encasing products spread across multifarious industries.

Also known as ‘shrink film’, it is made up of polymer plastic and when heat is applied to it, the film shrinks thereby tightening the grasp around the product. Right from covering kitchen leftovers, cartons, boxes, glass, books, DVDs to buildings etc, it takes care of almost everything. Shrinkwraps are preferred over ordinary wrappers because of their ability to hold the goods tightly and in a coordinated manner which in turn helps to keep the items clean and also ready for use.

You can of course check out our shrinkwraps that come in various sizes and thicknesses including several other supplies related to the same. The shrinkwrap rolls for example can be used for covering items that require strength and durability. Apart from this, you can also browse through our shrinkwrap bags which are the quickest and the most inexpensive ways of encasing media supplies like magazines, CDs and DVDs. On the other hand we have the 100 gauge shrink tube roll which has been designed to seal jewel cases, CD, soaps, kindles, frames, gift baskets, album, paper, toys, software programs, paper and all kinds of retail products. However, don’t forget to check out the wrinkle free, glossy and super clear shrink wrap-polyolefin. Available in 75 and 100 gauge thickness, they are puncture resistant and work well with both regular and irregular objects. Being a three-layered co-extruded film, it offers an unmatched durability and resistance. Another noteworthy feature of this product is that it is FDA approved.

Among supplies we have products including heat gun shrink wrap sealer, shrink wrap sealer replacement wires, shrink wrap sealer replacement teflon, roll holder, pro shrink wrap sealer only, shrink wrap sealer………the list is endless.

It’s finally time to give your items that much needed protection and at the same time also make them presentable and impressive.

So visit our website today for all the latest on shrink wraps.

Gumball Machines – The Ultimate Choice for Your Business

Posted onAuthorericw@specialtystoreservices.com


What is a better way of spreading a mouthful of happiness this holiday season than decorating somebody’s platter with beautiful, delicious and colorful candy delights? They are not merely children’s favorites as it was long thought. Adults too go equally gaga over these tasty and flavorful items that not only leave a wonderful taste in the mouth but also make one feel more nostalgic and consumed by the holiday spirit.

So in order to cater to the increasing demands for vending and gumball machines this holiday season, we have for you a wide variety of them. Let’s walk you through the vibrant stock that will surely bring a smile on your face and give you a chance to keep the holiday
spirit alive.

All our gumball machines come in different shapes and designs with a metal top and base. Some of the most exciting ones include deluxe quad machines with stand, deluxe triple gumball machines, deluxe six machines with stand.. the list is endless. They all have a steel coin mechanism and a high quality security lock. There is also a locking drawer at the bottom making the process of coin collection easier. Among others, the spiral gumball machine is a one of its kind. Built with a capacity to hold up to 3,000 gumballs, they are very sturdy and made of fiber glass with long-lasting metal coin mechanism.

But did you know that apart from spreading happiness to people all around, you too can cash in on this golden opportunity to give your business a profitable headstart? And for this what you only need to keep in mind is the location. So if you have a business of your own, you can place the machines at your store or any other location with a strong footfall and then see how your business profits double up within a matter of just a few months. But in case you don’t have your own store or any other suitable location to place the dispensers in, what you can do is choose a retail store or other businesses with a good inflow of customers. This will give you an opportunity to make a handsome profit even after shelling out a certain percentage of your income to the store owner.

So get one for your business today and see how money rolls in by leaps and bounds. Isn’t this a wonderful way of spreading cheer and at the same time also leveraging maximum benefits out of your business?

Specialty Store Services featured in the ‘Independent Retailer’

Posted onAuthorericw@specialtystoreservices.com

We are really pleased to announce that ‘Independent Retailer,’ one of the most reliable and esteemed trade publications for independent retail store owners has featured an article on Specialty Store Services in one of their recent publications.

This comes three years after AVN Novelty Business published the article ‘Bringing Special Back’ on our store. I am sure most of you out there remember the article but for the new customers here’s the link.

I am absolutely humbled to see our efforts being recognized and spoken about. I love the place where the celebrated author Rory J Simpson writes – The “Chicago-based outfitter has everything a store needs to stock, display and sell its wares, all ready for immediate shipment at the lowest prices around.” I also take this opportunity to thank our dedicated workforce who have really worked hard to take Specialty Store Services where it is today. We always try to cater to your needs in the best possible manner by ensuring a good customer service and it feels really good when people mention about it.

You would be happy to know that we are now 4,000 SKUs strong and growing. This long journey has been fraught with a lot of challenges but we are really glad and also privileged to have your association. We cherish every moment of this bonding and urge you to keep this faith in our services alive. We promise never to let you down!

To read the article click here.

Some video supplies to spice up the holiday season and beyond

Posted onAuthorericw@specialtystoreservices.com


Everyone out there would swear by the fact that reclining on a couch on a chilly winter afternoon with a hot steaming cuppa held in one hand and a movie playing on TV is the perfect idea of the run up to Christmas. And moreover with films like Harry Potter and the Deathly Gallows, Faster or the Warriors Way already released and another slew of new releases in the pipeline the movie buffs will be completely spoilt for choice this season.

And to make this already vibrant season even more colorful, you can dole out some of the best movies and CDs both from the past and present from your store and make this time of the year the most memorable one. For storing CDs and DVDs, however, you would obviously need certain supplies like cases, albums etc.

Now the big question is where would you procure them from? The answer is simple. Specialty Store Services, the one-stop shop for all kinds of retail supplies. We have multiple paraphernalia related to video like cd/dvd cases, disc repair/and disc verifiers, dvd cases, media supplies, media storage, game cases, vhs cases, media mailers, custom imprinted video rental forms etc.

Each item is unique and caters to your needs perfectly. So after you store the CDs and DVDs in these cases and albums, you can then lock them up safely in the cabinets. Also, don’t forget to check out our mobile video return and display cart. Made of steel with chip-resistant epoxy finish the best thing about the display cart is that it can be easily transported from one place to another. In addition to this, you can also check out the replacement cases for disney VHS tapes for they can make the torn and tattered Disney CDs look all new and dazzling. In fact they are great for home theater collections too.

So browse through our stock and I bet you would be absolutely hooked on the startling variety that we have!