The Gray Cat Blog
A comprehensive collection of blogs designed to assist small business owners and multi-unit operators.
When I speak to retail audiences, I often ask a simple question:
“How many of you held a grand opening celebration when your store first opened?”
I’m always surprised by the response. Typically, o...
If I had to choose one Local Store Marketing (LSM) tactic that consistently delivers results, it would be product sampling.
Why?
Because customers believe what they experience far more than what t...
I have always enjoyed creating something from the ground up.
One of my favorite hobbies is landscape design. Over the years, I’ve transformed blank spaces into gardens complete with patios, winding...
Successful retailers don’t build their merchandising strategy one promotion at a time—they build it one year at a time.
As you begin planning for the upcoming year, your merchandising and promotional...
One of the most effective—and least expensive—ways to improve customer service, increase sales, and retain employees is simple: recognize great work.
While bonuses and financial incentives certainly ...
In this episode with George Lowe I talk about how I maintain balance in life but knocking items off the list.
There are some stress free tidbits here.
Want more ideas? For more information on Time ...
In this recent episode with Dilan Abeya, we discuss the benefits (and determents) of using AI.
AI can be a fantastic tool - it can also make you lazy.
Have a listen.
Most companies have a marketing plan. Far fewer have a brand game plan.
There’s a difference.
A marketing plan outlines where and when you’ll spend your advertising dollars. A brand game plan defi...
Few decisions have a greater impact on a retailer’s long-term success than selecting the right location. A great operator can improve a marginal site, but even the best management team will struggle...
Every entrepreneur eventually reaches a crossroads: continue growing the business or prepare for an exit.
Whether you’re planning to sell to a strategic buyer, private equity firm, family member, or ...
Retailers spend enormous amounts of time selecting store locations, hiring great employees, and building the right merchandise assortment. Yet one of the most important decisions often receives far ...
Every budgeting season brings the same ritual.
Department heads defend their budgets. New positions are requested. Software subscriptions magically become “essential.” Travel is justified. Last yea...
