You’ve Got A Friend
Technology. Friend? Or Foe? To many independent retailers, technology is the antithesis of such time-tested business virtues as handpicked assortments,…
Browsing: Opinions
Local Flavor
During a recent trip north of the border to Quebec City, I found myself standing in front of Pot en…
A Destination With Energy
On a recent visit to SoulCycle for 45 minutes of indoor cycling torture, an article posted on the wall caught…
Taking Stock
It’s inventory time — a time to assess what sold through, what’s left on the shelves and what the shopping…
Overcoming New Hurdles
In years past, independent gourmet housewares stores knew their competitors, who were often up the street or around the corner.…
What’s Your Story?
Allow me to wax nostalgic about retailing for a moment. Remember when the brand on the outside of a store…
The All-Star Difference
Welcome to the 2017 GOURMET INSIDER® All-Stars issue. This year we honor Laura and Stephen Havlek of Sign of the…
Making Things Happen
With summer now in full swing, it’s time again for GOURMET INSIDERS® All-Stars issue. As in past years, the 2017…
Expect The Unexpected
The business climate for today’s independent retailer is in a state of continual change and store owners must navigate choppier…
A Cut Above
Independent kitchenware retailers don’t need to be reminded how important cutlery is to their business. That doesn’t mean they can’t…
The Crux Of Change
There is no denying that retailing is in the midst of change. And while we’ve seen this change coming, there…
Experience Is On Your Side
If you haven’t noticed, “Experience” is the buzzword du jour in retailing as veteran store operators of all sizes and…
Eyes On The Unexpected Prize
Independent kitchenware retailers barely get a chance to add up their holiday receipts before hitting the road for the busy…
Get Out Of The Box
During the past year, I’ve had so many wonderful, in-depth conversations with our Gourmet Insiders. Whether it’s calls or texts…
A Year Of Change
It’s no secret that small businesses across the U.S. close on a daily basis. As gourmet housewares store owners know…
Charting A New Course
Well, we’re near the end of quite a year, marked by up-and-down sales cycles that have become predictably unpredictable and…