Spotlight on Business

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Survey Results: Small Business Owners Want Washington to Rethink Policies to Spur Growth

May 27, 2025

Small business owners have definite opinions on what the government can do to help them overcome barriers that deter their ability to compete and grow. Goldman Sachs, in a new national survey, 10,000 Small Business Voices, identifies critical challenges small business owners face in 2025 and beyond.

Overcome the Barriers that Derail Small Businesses

May 16, 2025

Small- to medium-sized stores can struggle for a variety of reasons. Some problems are due to organizational operational issues, while others are directly tied to the economy. It’s understandable when owners become overwhelmed by day-to-day responsibilities and lose sight of long-term goals. However, owners must prioritize activities that increase cash flow and stimulate business growth.

Sell Plumbing Goods and Services the “Smart” Way

May 1, 2025

The plumbing industry is undergoing a transformation that utilizes technology to maximize efficiency and conserve resources. While DIY homeowners rely on the plumbing industry to help maintain their homes, plumbing professionals also handle more complex issues like water treatment systems, landscape sprinkler systems, fire sprinkler systems, and waste management systems.

Helpful Tips to Connect with Consumers on Social Media

May 1, 2025

Social media has a tremendous influence on consumers’ buying habits and where they choose to shop. Although many independent retailers recognize the need to have a social media presence for their business, developing an effective strategy is often a work in progress. Yet small-to-medium-sized businesses that make a concerted effort can use social media platforms and current technology to build a robust online presence and become skilled in digital marketing.

Making Things Right After Customer Service Goes Wrong

May 1, 2025

At some point, every retail establishment will encounter an unhappy customer who may or may not have a valid complaint about a product, service, or salesperson. Rather than avoid the problem, acting quickly to assess the situation and address the customer's concerns is critical. When handled correctly, what is initially a problem can become an opportunity for the retailer to elevate the person’s perception of the business and ultimately build an even better relationship.

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Impulse Buying Taps into the Emotional Needs of Consumers

May 1, 2025

Impulse purchases are quick-turn items that typically have a higher profit margin than items sold in core departments. Placing impulse items at checkout or on a dedicated endcap increases their visibility and the likelihood that customers will make a quick purchase before heading home.

Collaborating with other Businesses to Promote Your Store

May 1, 2025

Keeping this in mind, partnering with another business can be an effective way to support the community and to bring more customers into your store. These limited relationships are mutually beneficial for both organizations since the products and resources are currently available. The goal is to attract new customers, strengthen loyalty, and get people talking about the company. You can use various methods to accomplish your objectives.

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Gen Z Comes of Age

May 1, 2025

While Gen Z or Zoomers are on every retailer’s radar, they refuse to be defined by anyone except themselves. Born between 1997 and 2012, they are digital natives who are living their lives immersed in technology and social media. Although every generation is multicultural, Gen Z is the most diverse generation in history, with a larger percentage of individuals from various racial and ethnic backgrounds.

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Be Proactive and Stay Focused During Economic Downturns

April 30, 2025

“Hope for the best and be prepared for the worst.” Volatility and economic turbulence are never comfortable conditions for any business. Small and medium-sized operations are especially vulnerable since rising costs, tariffs, and fears of recession can be harmful on multiple levels

What you can do to Protect Your Store Against Retail Theft

April 18, 2025

While many independent retailers have ramped up security using a combination of technology and store personnel, some owners may have overlooked key preventative measures.