The Gray Cat Blog
A comprehensive collection of blogs designed to assist small business owners and multi-unit operators.
I have been putting together business plans for over 30 years and it is clear to me that the strength of its core rests solely on being able to execute the plan. Each year I approach business...
One of the questions I ask audiences when I deliver presentations on retail marketing is “How many did a grand opening celebration for your store?” I am generally amazed that...
Change is inevitable.
We change where we live; we change relationships; and we change our jobs. Change has been with us throughout time, but the worldwide pandemic seemed to put change...
One of the greatest benefits of being a sole proprietor is that I can wield tremendous influence over my schedule and thus, add balance to my life. Gone are the days of “punching a...
As more and more consumers are craving healthier, locally sourced, and convenient foodservice options, convenience stores are in a race against time to capture this demographic or run the risk of...
Excited to celebrate Gray Cat's 19th year!
John Matthews is the president and CEO of Gray Cat Enterprises and is responsible for the management of all consulting activities for the firm,...
Over the years, I have been fortunate to have held some pretty nice corporate roles. I was the National Marketing Director of Little Caesars back in their high-growth years; a VP of five...
Every retail operator starts with that first, single store. They hone their operational skills; develop a “how-to-go-to-market” strategy; and hopefully find success for years to...
I remember my first interview with a convenience store chain.
I had just spent 9 fast-paced years with Little Caesars Pizza as the National Marketing Director – we went from 1,300...
Below is an excerpt of a recent interview discusses the importance of connecting with the customer:
Q: Why are brands so important?
Matthews: Brands identify and establish an emotional...
When I started Gray Cat Enterprises in 2004, I was living in Chicago and for the first couple of years, all of my clients were based in Illinois. This was fine at the time, since I had a...
Employee peer recognition is often more influential among your workers than achieving actual prizes or monetary rewards. Developing ongoing peer recognition programs will keep your employees...
