GIFT AND HOME RETAILER NEWS
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Retail Serenity: Courage to Change the Things You Can

As a small retailer, you know that you have a lot of challenges. From difficulty finding good employees to supply chain disruptions to complying with government regulations, the list of problems faced by small retailers — indeed all small businesses — is long.

Photo by Amina Filkins, Pexels.com

But as the Serentiy Prayer says, "Grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference." In this issue we will take a look at four things that are within your control to change as a small retailer.

Competition from E-commerce and Big Box Retailers

Amazon and other giants offer unmatched convenience, pricing, and selection. As a small brick-and-mortar retailer there's no way you can match their selection. Big box chains have big marketing budgets and bulk buying power. How do you compete?

First of all, the hype is with online, but much of it is just that: hype. The truth is that 85% of commerce is still in-person in brick-and-mortar stores, according to one industry insider. Customers still crave the ability to hold a product in their hands before they buy, something an Amazon.com can never give them. Also, national chains don't do a good job of catering to local interest.

The way to fight the online retailers and Big Boxes is to sell niche, local, handmade, or hard-to-find products. If you create a superior in-store experience via customer service, personal attention and community awareness, you can thrive. You can't control what Amazon and Walmart do, but you can beat them at connection and community.

Marketing and Visibility - It isn't "Field of Dreams"

You can't "build it and they will come." Every city and community is different, but you can be found if you do several key things.

• Claim and update your Google Business Profile. It's free and will help potential customers find your store. Three-fourths of consumers look at a store's presence online before physically visiting the store, according to PRNewswire. Your Google Business Profile allows posting, similar to social media posting, so you can use it to inform potential customers of your products and specials.
• Encourage word-of-mouth and online reviews. Here are a few ideas how to do this:
  • Set up a photo-worthy display or mural with your branding and encourage selfies.
  • Run a fun contest or giveaway with a “tell a friend” component.
  • Host in-store events or workshops that get people talking.
  • Leverage Your Loyal Customers. Personally ask your best customers to tell their friends—most are happy to help.
  • Start a referral program: "Bring a friend, get 20% off," or "Earn store credit for every new customer you refer."
  Try things out and keep the things that work for you.
• Use social media storytelling—show the people, process, and passion behind your store. This is totally within your control; Being consistent is more important than budget.

These things take time, but are mostly free or inexpensive.

Access to Capital

Startups and expansions often rely on personal savings or local grants. Loans and credit are harder to secure for small businesses with limited assets or inconsistent revenue. Plus, high interest rates make borrowing riskier.

This is something you can partially control, but it will take diligence and research. Here are a few possibilities:

• Build strong business credit and keep financials organized.
• Explore local grants, community banks, or SBA microloans.
• Crowdfund new ideas or offer loyalty pre-sales for new product lines.
• Apply for local chamber of commerce or city development programs.

Real Estate Challenges

Rents in prime areas are climbing, and long-term leases create inflexibility. As communities change, vacant storefronts in some downtowns or malls may reduce foot traffic, hurting neighboring businesses.

While there's much in the marketplace you can't control, there may be things you can do short of moving.

• Add services that drive foot traffic: classes, events, or demos. Give people a reason to come to your store.
• Consider a hybrid model with online sales + a smaller footprint. Adding an ecommerce website could allow you to sell more while occupying a smaller footprint.
• If your landlord is agreeable, negotiate flexible lease terms. Ask for a 1–2 year lease with renewal options instead of the standard 3–5 years. This reduces your long-term risk if the location underperforms. Landlords are often more open to flexibility now—especially if vacancies are high or the local economy is slow.
• Explore shared spaces. You may be able to sublease within a larger space. Partner with another retailer who has more space than they need. Split rent and utilities. Each business attracts new traffic for the other.

Obviously this is not a complete list of challenges or suggested solutions, but hopefully this can get your creative juices flowing to solve your specific needs.

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Quick Industry News

Progress between China and US On Tariffs

In the final days of June, Treasury Secretery Scott Bessent announced agreement with China for erasure of some tariffs which will allow American firms to acquire Chinese magnets and rare-earth minerals. Earlier, in mid-June Bessent, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and their Chinese counterparts announced agreement on a general tariff level while talks continue. The US will keep a 30% general tariff on Chinese goods coming into the country and China will keep a 10% tariff on US goods. Both sides already agreed to a 90-day pause on the triple-digit reciprocal tariffs imposed on one another earlier. (source)

TRADE SHOW NEWS

Virtual Trade Show Is Live

Once again, OmegaNet, publisher of this newsletter, is conducting a VIRTUAL trade show at giftshowspecials.com where you can view information, images and videos from vendors about their lines and see their trade show dates, locations and specials.

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NEW WHOLESALE WEBSITES

Grow Rock, a family-owned company that brings 200-year-old science used by farmers to boost crops and yield, into your home to help your plants grow bigger and faster. Grow rock uses innovative technology to generate microcurrents in the soil, which increases absorption of water and nutrients, resulting in larger, more lush, beautiful plants without the use of harmful chemicals or fertilizers. Grow Rock is available in four stylish designs with many more styles to come.

 

 

 

Featured Vendors

indicates a CAMEO EZ^© web site.

Ala Carte Alice
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Ala Carte Alice's mission is simple: to provide the best products and service to their customers and use the freshest ingredients that they can find. Alice Wooten takes great pride in her company, their commitment to customer service and in the products they sell. Ala Carte Alice’s products include savory sauces, red dog rubs, glazes, relishes and jams. Black and Blue Bacon, Creme Brulee and Sante Fe are just some of the yummy cheese balls Alice offers. In addition, there are mouth watering desserts, party dips and awesome entrees. You have go to try Ala Carte Alice for an excellent cullinary experience!

Albert L
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The albert L. (punkt) products are all traditionally handcrafted. We are striving to support the conventional social structures. Hanoi’s craft villages hold cultural values that are built up and cemented after generations of craftsmen here. At these villages, there are so many skillful craftsmen that the entire village becomes a large manufacturing center, like bamboo, ceramic, rattan etc. In order to guarantee high quality standards, all our products are checked and controlled by our quality team in our warehouse in Hanoi and once more in our warehouse here in the US before it is sent for an order.

Billy Joe Homewares
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Unique and decorative kitchen sink strainers, kitchen sink stoppers and toilet roll holders.

Cin Chili
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Cindy Reed Wilkins, aka The Chili Queen, is a legend in the chili community. Cindy has won an extraordinary 15 first-place awards, over 100 total, in the world of championship red chili. For 35 years, she's been tweaking her best chili recipe, from the size of her beef cubes to her secret blend of powdered chili spices. Cin Chili & Company has grown since it's conception in 2005, from one awesome product to seventeen and counting.

Dutch House Caramels
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Dutch House Caramels was founded in 1997, when the owners of Bayfields Bake Shop & Grill, in Alexandria, Minnesota developed a recipe for caramel candy and started making the product in the restaurant. Today the company features caramels in a variety of assortments and gift boxes.

EMV Trading
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EMV's products are deeply inspired by nature with an emphasis on creating beautiful lasting memories. The company's vast selection of unique products complements fine jewelry stores or gift/souvenir shop. EMV jewelry is perfect for any occasion, ranging from formal to casual events with specialization in Hawaiian Koa jewelry and also offering: license plates, shells and pearls jewelry, sterling silver/stainless steel/tungsten/wood collections, assorted natural gemstones and stone fashion jewelry.

Fairhope Favorites
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Fairhope Favorites Inc. is a family owned 32 year old wholesale gourmet food company with unique items, such as Moonshine Hot Sauces and other novelty gifts. We are from Fairhope, Alabama in the deep south and all of our products are made here in the USA. "We pride ourselves with our unique products, with a touch of humor, and take great pride in all of our items."

Fancy That Gift & Décor
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Fancy That Gift & Decor, Inc. celebrated its 18th anniversary in August, 2019. Owners, Steve and Carmen Mendelson, have used their experience in gift and home decor to build a company that takes pride in providing quality Coastal Decor products and service with the highest levels of integrity always at the forefront.

Festive Finds
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At Festive Finds, we bring the magic of each season straight to your doorstep. Our mission is to provide a delightful shopping experience, offering a wide range of seasonal merchandise for every occasion and celebration.

FG Square Village
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The company's mission is to craft flawless seasonal pieces for aficionados of villages, ranging from Halloween animated villages to Christmas figurines. Rooted in years of retail experience and fortified by design and production expertise, the FG Square brand was officially established in 2022. The company has a dedicated focus on supplying holiday villages to diverse retailers across the United States.

Gina B. Designs
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Gina B. Designs is an award-winning greeting card, gift and stationery products company featuring exceptional art and design. With an array of styles, variety of products and outstanding customer service, Gina B. Designs has "something for everyone."  All products are proudly made in the U.S.A.

The Great San Saba River Pecan Company
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The Great San Saba River Pecan Company is located in a huge pecan orchard near San Saba in Texas. The company's products include Preserves in a variety of flavors, Toppings, "Popin" Popcorn Pecan Snack and Pecan Pie in-a-Jar.

Grow Rock
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Grow Rock, a family-owned company that brings 200-year-old science used by farmers to boost crops and yield, into your home to help your plants grow bigger and faster. Grow rock uses innovative technology to generate microcurrents in the soil, which increases absorption of water and nutrients, resulting in larger, more lush, beautiful plants without the use of harmful chemicals or fertilizers. Grow Rock is available in four stylish designs with many more styles to come.

Herbal Rose Apothecary
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Herbal Rose Apothecary is a woman owned business founded by a nurse. Shadda Rose is an herbal enthusiast who is dedicated to bringing the medicinal world of plants to the community by offering ethically/organically sourced dried herbs, DiY apothecary kits, bath salts, gifts & more to the market.

JAG Enterprises Inc.
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Having been in business now for 31 years, JAG Enterprises Inc. is the premier place to find your special collegiate, gift and souvenir needs at the best price available.

Magnolia Lane Collection
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At Magnolia Lane, our desire is to produce gifts that become part of celebrations, memories, and family treasures. Our licensed tailgating products, Christmas line, The South collection, and outdoor decor will enhance and compliment every occasion! We are proud of what we do and are ever grateful and dedicated to our customers.

Michael Grace Gifts
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Michael Grace Gifts focuses on creating beautiful gifts that celebrate life's everyday moments and milestone memories, reflecting the unique personalities and individuality that make each of us treasure one another. Understanding the profound value of gift-giving and relationships, the company curates elegant gifts comprised of unforgettable products that are both visually stunning and a joy to use.

Mills Gourmet
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Mills Gourmet says, "Our products are available in our local area and throughout the US! Every gourmet mix we cultivate is made from scratch right here in our kitchen with the same needs in mind---taste, quality and affordability. We are proud of every single product in our inventory, and we promise our unique blends will give you a taste of real goodness!"

Mountaineer Floral
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Mountaineer Floral, LLC, is a family-owned silk floral wholesale company specializing in silk flower bushes, silk floral Styrofoam, decorative silk sympathy designs, baskets, and ribbon (seasonal, shear, tuxedo, and floral satin). Over the past 30 years, The company has built relationships with customers from North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia, and Kentucky. Mountaineer Floral's business is a blend of high quality products at reasonable prices. The company is family owned and operated, now in the third generation.

The Ornament King
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This exquisite line of meticulously hand painted European made ornaments, mouth blown glass as in days of old, is available exclusively from The Ornament King^™ (Santa's Right Hand Man). Each style is made in limited quantities — once gone, they’re gone!

PainPod USA
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PainPod USA, the Palm-Sized Pain Relief Companion, sits neatly in your hand, is easy to use and relieves pain, eases aches and aids recovery for thousands of people across the world. The PainPod blends biotechnology and physical therapy into a tiny device designed for one purpose: to help make everyday life a little easier — whether you’re struggling with a bad back or recovering from surgery.

Pure Factory Naturals
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Pure Factory Naturals collections, including Flip Flop Foot Repair,Splash. The collection includes lip balm, foot repair, body lotion, hand cream, solid lotion bar, salt glow, skin repair.

Pure Mana Hawaii
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Pure Mana Hawaii Founders Sue Mandini and Kollette Stith bring the wisdom of living close to the land and in harmony with nature's rhythms to the marketplace in their luxury skincare line. Built from the ground up, the brand features wild harvested ingredients and a synergy of raw, wild macadamia nut oil and green coffee bean oil, grown on their family's certified organic farm, Mahina Mele in Hawaii.

Quintessential Chocolates
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Quintessential Chocolates specializes in the centuries old art form of casting “Liqueur Praliné” or the European style Liquid Center Chocolates (“with a sugar crust”). The process the company uses is more than 200 years old. Quintessential is the only manufacturer of this specialty confection in America and has been creating these chocolates since 1984.

Samuel Lamont USA
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Founded in 1835, Samuel Lamont is a family run business that continues to manufacture kitchen textiles and provide luxury homeware and giftware. They offer the popular Poli-Dri Tea Towels, Aprons and so much more.

Serenity + Sol
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Serenity + Sol features Metaphysical Products, including Crystal Bags, Essential Oils, Jewelry, Key Rings, "Evil Eye", Sage and Smudge and Sun Catchers. Prepacks are also available.

SparkJump
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SparkJump's goal is simple... They want their high-quality kids woodworking products to inspire kids and adults of all ages to build amazing things together, so everyone experiences the joy of creating something special with someone special.

Sunset Vista Designs
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Sunset Vista Designs offers you extra margin opportunities, and sells thru at retail. They offer innovative designs, in proven products, with space saving merchandising solutions, and attractive package deals that all add value to the quality products we offer. Many say this is the "best ever" line of innovative gift, garden, and home decor.

The Whitehurst Company
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The Whitehurst Company has roots in the Christmas and Home Holiday industry dating back to 1947, first started by Mr. and Mrs. Morris Whitehurst. Now owned and managed as a multi-generation, family-owned business, The Whitehurst Company offers you a wide selection of holiday decor. Products include the largest selection of solid colored ornaments, curated collections of European glass molds, along with licensed products that include Zim’s Elves Themselves, Zim's Collectible Heirloom Nutcrackers and Children of the Inner Light by Marci inspirational ornaments.