July, 2009 

"Having heard of Barbara Crowhurst and her ability to transform stores, I knew The Jelly Cupboard was in for positive changes, both to the physical space as well as the store's operations. I was keen to jump right into the makeover and make the most of Barbara's advice and ideas.

Step-by-step Barbara gave me suggestions to make my business more current and profitable. Beginning with necessary physical changes. With the exception of some "wow" fixtures, all of the lighting was switched to halogen track lighting. Dark wide plank laminate flooring replaced the mixture of five different flooring types, creating consistency throughout. To keep with the theme of simple consistency, the entire store was painted in light neutrals and all of the fixtures white. To remove clutter from the floor, slat wall display units were installed.

The list goes on with all the changes Barbara encouraged me to make, but so do the benefits. As a result of the makeover, The Jelly Cupboard now looks and operates like a completely new store. I now work with a strict operating budget and strive to meet demanding sales targets. To keep the staff on the same page, Barbara held a two-hour staff training over SKYPE about effective retail selling. I now host weekly staff meetings every Monday morning at 9:00 am, and continue to meet with Barbara weekly on SKYPE.

Barbara has given me the tools and information to make the changes to The Jelly Cupboard that were long overdue.  The effects of the makeover have been evident at the cash register. I could not be happier with the results, I feel like I have a totally new store!"

Heather Lohr
The Jelly Cupboard

           Before Pic                                                                                                   After Pic

Latest CD and e-BOOK Download

Barbara's latest CD and e-Book download addresses retailers' top challenges and concerns.

"There's lots to share with you in this the latest of my books targeted to help retailers survive and thrive in these economic times.  I have picked the top questions from the many that have come my way from retailers in the past year.  It is easy to use my new book.  Have a glance at the content page and pick the question that best relates to your concern or challenge and read what I have to share with you."

In 2005. this Canadian company was the first to introduce this unique and oh-so-fabulous concept to the North American market.  The product itself is lightweight vinyl words and quotes that can be applied to walls, glass, furniture and more.  It's simple yet transformational and when applied to walls (or any smooth surface), appears hand painted! It's also weather resistant and can be taken outside!  
 
The existing product line consists of 8 Collections and over 450 skus of various colours and designs so it works with all types of decor; and the price is right, ranging from $9.98 to $59.98 SRP.
 
"Keep it new or it's thru" says Marketing Manager Terri Erskine and President/Creator Ronda Pegnam agrees.  "It's a given that we will introduce new product 2 or 3 times a year.  Retailers want new!"  In January 2009, TIKTALK decorative wall clocks were introduced and the latest mid season release, The Monogram Collection, offers beautifully designed initials and borders.  
 
Many of the pieces work with each other. In this photo, a Monogram has been partnered with a quote. The ideas for application are endless.     
 
Did I mention they're 100% Canadian including product, packaging and merchandisers?  This is a HUGE advantage to retailers. They can ship product within days (which = less inventory costs) and NEVER have back orders.
 
Walltalk is about excellent service and existing retailers and they're sales representatives will agree.  "I want my company to deliver what I would expect as a retailer" says Pegnam.  "That means not only providing a great product, but also providing various tools and support to help sell our great product."

Barbara