Lori's completed file on Feb. 3, 2014
Ideas To Help Power Your Gift Shop - August 3, 2016

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On Our Radar 
 
* Paper Coupons Still Reign. Digital coupons are being used at an increasing rate, but paper coupons are still the most popular way for shoppers to save. 

* Hot 100 Retailers List. 
Food retailers fill almost a quarter of the spots on STORES' "Hot 100 Retailers" list for 2016, including several small-format discount concepts. 
Hot Topics:
Rude Reps
 
A Wisconsin retailer asked for advice after a rep stopped by without an appointment, then became pushy/rude with her staff when told the retailer couldn't see her. A North Carolina shop owner shared this: "A rude rep is not likely to understand 
why you won't see her. Don't waste your time. If she treats other buyers the same way, she won't be around long. If you want her products, call the company and ask for a different rep. Life is too short to let someone mess up your day." Join the discussion in our Buying/Product forumReminder: Access to Giftbeat's Community Board is FREE for subscribers.
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    board yet? Please take a look and get inspired!
Tip: Turn Headlines Into Revenue
 
Jim Ackerman
Did you know that headlines do up to 80% of the work in promotions? If you're treating them as an afterthought, you're missing out on sales, says Jim Ackerman of Ascend Marketing. One tip he shares in our recent issue: Don't focus on yourself. "The headline 'Wisconsin Store Gift-Giving Source for 53 Years' stinks because no one cares," he says. "Talk about benefits you can give your reader, not about yourself. Something like 'New Gift-Giving Reminder Service Promises To Keep Men Out Of Doghouse...And Sleeping Where They Want To.'" Subscribers can read Jim's full interview in Giftbeat's August issue. Not a subscriber yet? Click here for our Professional Courtesy Offer plus Bonus Report. 
Pick: Howard's Jewelry Mittens

Whimsy comes to winter accessories with Howard's Jewelry hedgehog mittens. Offered in 3 colors (ivory, tan and gray), the 100% acrylic mittens were a big hit at the summer shows. With a price point of $6 cost, they are a perfect Holiday Open House item!
Trend: Las Vegas Market Themes

Urbia Furniture
We're hearing some positive buzz from readers who attended the Las Vegas Market. This "First Look" report highlights key themes in furniture, home decor and gifts, including: Forest Splendor, showcasing wood finishes, verdant greens, rich browns and lavish reds; Happy Place, featuring whimsy, cheer and charm; In Black & White, the classic combo paired with warm metallic finishes; and New Heights, focusing on the casual and outdoor furnishings segment.
Feeling Inspired
"The greatest mistake you can make in life is to continually be afraid you will make one."
-- Elbert Hubbard, writer and artist
Thanks for joining me! See you next time.

 
Joyce Washnik, Editor
Giftbeat


P.S. If you missed my August editorial, I've shared it on Facebook. It's in memory of Bonnie Bell of Seasons Jewelry, an inspiring entrepreneur and dear friend. The Atlanta show will never be the same.