I imagine I’m not alone in feeling rather discouraged as our shop heads into the holiday season this year.  We have a beautifully displayed selection of merchandise, a well-trained and dedicated staff, and a loyal customer following built up over 45 years of retailing.  But the pandemic means that we can’t invite shoppers into our store the way we normally do, and that we also can’t offer them the friendly, personal service we know they appreciate.

So I think it’s worth taking a few minutes to think about why we’re in retail, and what value we bring to the world.  Hopefully some time in 2021 we’ll be able to start rebounding and reclaiming our success.  In the meantime, here are 10 reasons why you should be proud to be a shopkeeper:

1. You provide meaningful jobs to your employees.
2. The shopping experience your customers enjoy is unique to your store.
3. As a locally owned business, you support your community’s economy.
4. By buying merchandise to sell, you are supporting makers and manufacturers.
5. When you work with a sales rep, you make it possible for them to earn a living in our industry.
6. The aesthetic you bring to your shop is a creative expression no one else can make.
7. Giving your staff the opportunity to get involved in all aspects of the store enriches their work life.
8. It is a privilege to unite shoppers with products that spark joy.
9. Your shop allows staff, customers, suppliers and fellow business owners to get to know each other, which makes your community a better place.
10. By opening your own store, you have achieved a something that many people just dream of: creating your own business.

Here’s to brighter days when we won’t need a reminder to think of the positive aspects of being a shopkeeper!

Happy Retailing,
Carol “Orange” Schroeder