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Mar 3 2016
Stay Mobile
As handheld devices become a top tool for shopping, experts reveal how retailers can make the most of the now-mandatory technology.
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Jan 8 2016
Inside Outerwear
As a dip in sales—and a rise in mercury—pose a flurry of challenges for winter wear, experts reveal how to weather the hot-and-cold category.
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Aug 1 2015
Sales Force
Whether you’re a buyer or a brand, your sales reps are an essential piece of the retail puzzle, so make the most of their wealth of industry insights.
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Jul 6 2015
All the Trimmings
Children’s retailers – a.k.a. Santa’s real elves – reveal how to make the most of the 2015 holiday shopping season.
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Jun 3 2015
Character Study
With sales on the rise for recent blockbusters and beloved classics alike, experts reveal how to take advantage of the boom in licensed merchandise.
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Feb 26 2015
Shine On
Looking to boost your bottom line? From bow-ties to bracelets, retail pros reveal how to tempt shoppers with irresistible accessories.
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Feb 4 2015
Hot to Trot
With children’s footwear sales on the rise, retail experts reveal how to stay a step ahead of the competition.
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Jan 7 2015
Rain or Shine
As consumers increasingly snap up waterproof wares, retailers and manufacturers offer tips to soak up sales.
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Nov 25 2014
Earnie Award Winners 2014
Drumroll Please… After tallying thousands of votes from retailers across the U.S. and Canada, we are pleased to announce the winners of the 2014 annual Earnie Awards! Congratulations to this year’s honorees, who wowed voters with everything from top-notch customer service to stand-out style. Read on to find out who took home top honors this […]
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Oct 2 2014
Twin Set
As children look more and more to their parents for fashion inspiration (Or is it the other way around?), Mommy and Me styles are a hot commodity. In the not-so-distant past, matching outfits with mommy was nightmare fuel for many a kid and tween. Chances are you remember—not so fondly—holiday gatherings spent decked out in […]
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Sep 3 2014
Channel Surfing
Touted as the next big trend in retail, the “omni” approach is everywhere. But what does it really mean for store owners? By Samantha Sciarrotta hen talking retail strategies, the term “omni-channel” has become almost unavoidable. Retailers and analysts can’t say enough about the approach and how it’s a must in a digital world. But […]
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Aug 1 2014
Next Generation
As women from the millennial set enter motherhood, catering to the tech-savvy crowd has become more important than ever. By Samantha Sciarrotta Lately, it feels like nary a newscast or magazine cover goes by without mentioning the word “millennial.” The demographic is everywhere, whether it’s being (perhaps unfairly) declared selfish by Time or praised for […]
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Jul 7 2014
Home Grown
As more brands move their manufacturing back to U.S. soil, now may be the time to perk up your selection with patriotic products. By Samantha Sciarrotta Belle & Beanzer is now made in the U.S. When Lisa Godown founded girls’ clothing line Max & Dora in 2010, she knew she wanted the brand to signify […]
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Jun 4 2014
Scan ’n Go
Looking to ditch costly credit card payments, retailers move towards mobile payment methods. There was a time, not long ago, when cash was king. Then along came plastic, overtaking bills and coins as the payment method of choice for consumers. Now, dozens of U.S. retailers, including Wal-Mart, Target and Kohl’s, have joined forces to poach […]
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Apr 28 2014
Safe and Sound
With consumer product regulations getting stricter, gear up for safer sales by familiarizing yourself and your staff with the facts. By Lyndsay McGregor For many a new parent, standing in the baby gear aisle for the first time can be an overwhelming experience. Now, thanks to a recent slew of safety requirements for strollers, carriages, […]
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Mar 3 2014
No Time to Snooze
Parents will always need pajamas for their little ones, and with sleepwear sales on the rise, now may be the perfect time to freshen up your shut-eye assortment. By Cambrey Noelle Thomas You wouldn’t fall asleep on a million dollar industry, would you? Scores of children tuck into bed every night, bundled in their favorite […]
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Feb 4 2014
Child’s Play
With toy sales on the rise, specialty retailers are getting in on the fun and boosting business. By Lyndsay McGregor After a sluggish few years, sales are finally stacking up for the toy industry. Toy sales in the United States are forecast to be $19.9 billion in 2013, in comparison with sales between $16 billion […]
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Jan 7 2014
Keep ‘Em Coming
Customer retention is key to long-term success, but it’s not always easy. Industry experts share their tips on how you can keep shoppers coming back for more. By Lyndsay McGregor Running a successful store isn’t always about pushing product. At Angelique Kids in New Orleans, LA, it’s also about becoming a part of the community […]
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Dec 4 2013
Time to Buy
Chock-full of must-see reasons to attend, the 2014 trade show circuit features a full slate of seminars, exhibitors and events. From Atlanta and Miami to New York and Europe, here’s what to keep in mind as you make your travel plans. By Lyndsay McGregor It’s that time of year again: Holiday sales are ending, and […]
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Oct 3 2013
Hot Mama
As Millennials enter motherhood, and big box stores shrink their maternity selection, it’s a bright time for children’s retailers to discover their motherly fashion instincts. By Angela Velasquez You can talk CPSIA regulations in your sleep and might know the differences between Bugaboo’s Bee and Chameleon strollers, but the world of maternity fashion, with its […]