Spotlight on Business Archives - Cutting Edge Products

Solutions to Help your Business Mitigate Rising Costs

Posted by Wanda Lenoir
On April 14, 2026
Cutting Edge Products Magazine, Wanda Lenoir

Higher gas prices, rising labor costs, price increases, and economic uncertainty are causing many hardware store owners to tighten operations and implement practical solutions to save money without sacrificing service to their customers. Start by leaning into products and services that meet your customers’ immediate needs, extend the life of what they already own, and support their do-it-yourself mindset.

“Lifestyle Canning” is an Opportunity to Grow and Harvest More Sales

Posted by Wanda Lenoir
On March 31, 2026
Cutting Edge Products Magazine, Wanda Lenoir

Canning food has always been an age-old tradition in rural communities and among thrifty gardeners across the country. Folks saw the harvest season as an opportunity to preserve the fruits of their labor and enjoy home-grown fruits and vegetables for months to come. Previously, canning was an activity that happened only occasionally, depending on the time, place, and season. The canning process takes time and can be labor-intensive. Yet, “canners” find the process relaxing, peaceful, and a communal way for everyone to contribute and gather.

Prepare Your Team to Pivot in Unpredictable Times

Posted by Wanda Lenoir
On March 9, 2026
Cutting Edge Products Magazine, Wanda Lenoir

With so many changes happening on the economic front, it’s only natural to ask, what’s next? While you have no control over tariffs, global instability, and how customers spend their money, you can prepare your company for a worst-case scenario. Owning an independent business is a high-stakes game that requires many players to participate and achieve specific goals.

Applying the 1% Rule: Small Improvements Can Drive Big Results for the Long Haul

Posted by Wanda Lenoir
On February 23, 2026
Cutting Edge Products Magazine, Wanda Lenoir

Hardware store owners know that growth sometimes happens at a turtle’s pace rather than at the speed of a rabbit. Dealing with tight margins, rising prices, and temperamental customers requires a common-sense strategy that can boost profitability and position businesses for sustainable growth. By its nature, the 1% rule seems simple to apply

Leverage Point-of-Sale Data to Deliver Personalized Service

Posted by Wanda Lenoir
On February 10, 2026
Cutting Edge Products Magazine, Wanda Lenoir

Independent Retailers often have underutilized resources at their disposal that can help their businesses operate more efficiently. One of the most untapped resources is the store’s point-of-sale system (POS). It is a powerful tool that collects valuable information about each customer’s buying habits and can help personalize the shopping experience

Keep an eye on Birdwatchers to Discover a Growing Niche Opportunity

Posted by Wanda Lenoir
On January 26, 2026
Cutting Edge Products Magazine, Wanda Lenoir

Creating a niche that caters to birdwatchers can be a profitable opportunity that attracts a diverse and growing group of customers. Understanding the needs and values of birders will enable you to offer relevant products and create experiences that attract young people, families, and the community.

Simple Ways to Start the New Year on the Right Track

Posted by Wanda Lenoir
On December 30, 2025
Cutting Edge Products Magazine, Wanda Lenoir

People often make resolutions they seldom keep. When life gets busy, everything they hoped to accomplish is soon forgotten. However, businesses rely on a more concrete approach to solve problems and effect change. Forward-thinking store owners understand the importance of developing a game plan for the team to follow.

Doing Something Special Makes Customers Feel Appreciated

Posted by Wanda Lenoir
On December 15, 2025
Cutting Edge Products Magazine, Wanda Lenoir

Customers like to know that the stores they support appreciate their business. While the holidays are swiftly approaching, the New Year is also an ideal opportunity to celebrate the special relationship you have built with customers.

Motivating Your Staff Grows the Store’s List of Happy Customers

Posted by Wanda Lenoir
On November 20, 2025
Cutting Edge Products Magazine, Wanda Lenoir

So, what does it take to make customers consistently happy with your service? Nordstroms and Apple have figured out how to deliver white-glove experiences by meeting the needs of people, rather than simply selling products. The companies also understand that caring about people extends to their employees, who are the key to building a loyal customer base and achieving long-term success.

Get Customers Excited About Shopping on Small Business Saturday

Posted by Wanda Lenoir
On October 29, 2025
Cutting Edge Products Magazine, Wanda Lenoir

Time to get ready! This year, holiday shoppers will make a renewed effort to "shop small" and support local businesses. Small Business Saturday will be held on November 29, the day after Black Friday. It’s an opportunity for your independent business to attract new customers and benefit from the special promotions developed to support this popular shopping day.

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