Grow or... Die

Let me start by saying this article is not to be confused with the kind of growth that can kill you, which I recently experienced after Thanksgiving... but the kind of growth that makes you uncomfortable. Growth that amazes you and challenges you to be better than you are today. The growth that keeps you relevant and the growth that makes customers come back.

The Value Of An Hour

Just a little while ago we were gifted with an extra hour. One extra hour. Without getting into a discussion about how this hour is merely pay-back for the one we lost earlier in the year, let's contemplate that hour for a moment. Did you use it well?

Praise - a little goes a long way

by Mark Mulcahy

Most of us would love it if our new and part-time employees would stick around and be a positive part of our crew for a long time. It saves us time and money, can create a better shopping environment and is definitely better for morale. In fact, those who really like working at our store often become our next round of managers.

Product knowledge...do you know your stuff

 by Dirk van Wijk

This will be my third article in CNHR magazine and I am flattered that Bruce asked me a while ago to contribute to the well written editorials this magazine provides. I must admit, I am relatively new to the world of natural health food/products and I am learning a lot in a very short time.

Exceptional merchandising

Five simple rules for exceptional merchandising

by Olivia Sheaves

I believe that when it comes to running a successful business, customer service is hands-down the most important aspect. You can advertise, drop your prices, distribute flyers, and stock the place from floor to ceiling with every product on the market. But if customers come into your store and they are not satisfied with the way they are treated, or with the information they receive, they will most likely not return. I know I wouldn't return.

Do you have a structure problem?

by Carolee Colter

Sometimes what appears to be a performance problem—employees not doing the job up to your expectations—is actually a problem with the organizational structure of your business. If tasks go undone because they are falling off someone's overfull plate, or because they are on several different plates, or because they aren't on anyone's plate, you've got a structure problem.

The emotional tone of your store

by Deane Parkes

Recently, I sat in on a couple of sales and marketing seminars where both speakers mentioned "selling is all about emotion." Apparently, 75 per cent of retail purchasing decisions are based on emotion. If you want to have positive sales, you need to focus on creating an emotionally positive experience for your customers.

Pampering your HABA customers

When it comes to your HABA customers this winter, think...P.A.M.P.E.R.

by Julie Drapeau

"How do you make it through the winter months?"   Have you heard this lately or have you seen this expression in your customer's eyes?  Winter is the time of year where your customers need to pamper and treat themselves with luxurious products and textures. While it is gray outside, you need to create a colourful in-store environment to cheer up your clientele! They need you to warm them up from the outside cold and to help soothe their dry, itchy skin from a heated home. Make your life easy and just remember one word: P.A.M.P.E.R. This acronym will help you to create an eye catching end cap!

Looking good for the Holiday season

by Julie Drapeau

Let's be honest: the majority of your customers are starting to shop for their holiday gifts whether it be toys for the kids, clothes for the teenagers or the perfect dress for the office party or the family one. Just reading this can make your heart race. You can't help but wonder if after all their gift buying, if your customers will have enough disposable income to spend in your store. So, how do you catch their attention during this holiday season? Quite simply, be prepared and get them what they need!

Make your team meetings a success

by Carolee Colter

Do you hold regular meetings with your staff?  Are you considering such meetings but are concerned about what the cost will be?