The past two years have been filled with challenges ranging from the global pandemic to the container crisis and staff shortages. But as we head into the holiday season, there are points of light that should help keep us hopeful.  Here are a few:

1. In June, the National Retail Federation revised its annual forecast for 2021, projecting that retail sales will now grow between 10.5% and 13.5%.
2. This holiday season will see the return to in-person celebrations for many families, meaning more purchases of gifts and holiday decor.
3. The increase of working from home has resulted in a greater emphasis on coziness, updated decor and attractive home offices.
4. The U.S. economy likely gained steam in the second quarter, with the pace of growth probably the second fastest in 38 years, according to a late July article in Reuters.
5. Unemployment is at about 5% – bad news for us as employers, but good news for our customers in terms of their spending ability.
6. The Buy Local movement remains strong, with more than 50% of consumers saying they are more likely to buy from a local store that supports their community. 
7. It looks like there won’t be capacity limits due to COVID this holiday season. People wearing masks can still fill up their shopping carts!
8. The real estate market is setting records, meaning lots of new homes needing those special decorating touches.
9. Thanks to government support and hard work, the majority of our vendors and makers have survived the pandemic.
10. We have too! As long as your shop is still open, you’re poised for a successful season. . May sales surpass your expectations.

Happy Retailing,

Carol “Orange” Schroeder