Jul
8
Written by:
Roy Turner
7/8/2009 10:38 AM
On the road this week in North Carolina and I had the opportunity to visit my old retail store. It was July 4th weekend, the sun was bright, and there wasn’t a spare parking place on the island of Wrightsville Beach. Business was booming.
You have to remember, I had walked through these doors seven days a week for 25 years, so I wasn’t really expecting anything new. While waiting to say hello, I watched as knowledgeable sales people explained the features and benefits of the selection of SUP's (stand-up paddle boards).
I must admit it caught my attention. I listened to another salesperson fit a customer with a paddle in a show of great customer service and employee interaction -- exactly what you expect from a core specialty retailer.
It made me want to buy a SUP board.
It was then that it hit me as it had many times in the past: specialty retailers need to keep creating niches for their businesses and especially for their core group of enthusiasts.
We have seen it before: fishes, long boards, short boards and paddle boards. Each product adds to a waterman’s quiver and allows retailers to continue to offer the stoke.
Customers have a desire for what’s new, whether that’s an SUP, a new wakeboard, a boat, a pair of jeans, new sunglasses, or the latest in skate shoes. It is the differentiation in product mix or technology that lets certain retailers stay ahead of the pack.
Trade shows are the perfect place to find that next trend, product, or new supplier -- and with the August show featuring more than 100 new exhibitors and more than 3,500 lines, I know our show will help set the stage for success going into next season.
We look forward to being a part of “something new.”
Tags:
1 comment(s) so far...
roy turner
Not that Roy needs endorsements, but when I was starting out 30 years ago learning to surf Roy was there. He was there for the poor high school and college student with information about board technology, tips for learning and places to go. When I returned to my home time to pursue my career, Roy moved on to his next career. I have kept going to his old shop, oftentimes just for the memories. Now that I can spend money I make sure to do so. Yes the economy is in a trough but a peak is coming and I'll be in the old shop buying one of those new ice cream spoon looking longboards. Just my 2 cents...
By michael hasson on
7/23/2009 7:38 PM
|