Building Loyalty Programs That Truly Reward Customers
One of the most effective ways to build lasting customer relationships is through a well-designed loyalty program. Yet, too many small retailers adopt generic approaches that fail to resonate with their audience. The key is to create a program that feels meaningful, personal and rewarding.
Email Marketing That Works for Independent Retailers
For independent retailers especially, email marketing offers a direct, reliable way to communicate with customers and keep the store top of mind. Unlike social media, where algorithms control visibility, your email list is an asset you own.
Holiday Sales Expected to Surpass $1 Trillion in 2025
The National Retail Federation released its annual holiday forecast, predicting retail sales in November and December will grow between 3.7% and 4.2% over 2024.
Retail Industry Grapples with Rising Levels of Theft and Violence
The retail industry continues to grapple with increasing levels of theft and violence, according to a new study released today by the National Retail Federation (NRF) and the Loss Prevention Research Council and sponsored by Sensormatic Solutions.
Half of Small Businesses’ Annual Sales Take Place During Holidays
Constant Contact's new Small Business Holiday Outlook found that while optimism remains high, businesses are strategically adapting to economic pressures and evolving consumer behaviors to maximize holiday sales.
New American Express Small Business Study Reveals Accelerating AI Adoption
American Express released its latest Amex Trendex: Small Business Edition, which revealed that small businesses are accelerating Artificial Intelligence (AI) adoption, with 66% now using AI. This is a 10 point increase from the May 2025 Trendex.
The Power of Community Connections in Marketing
Independent retailers often feel pressure to compete with national chains and online giants on price, speed and selection. Yet what truly sets a store apart is something competitors can’t replicate: authentic community connections.
How AI is Transforming Small Businesses
Big-box retailers have long leveraged technology to streamline operations, engage customers and drive sales. Today, many smaller, independent retailers – like jewelers and pet store owners – are following suit as technology, such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), is hitting Main Street.
2025 Consumer Holiday Spending Expected to Reach New Heights
Consumers plan to spend $890.49 per person on average this year on holiday gifts, food, decorations and other seasonal items, according to the NRF's annual consumer survey. The amount is the second-highest in the survey’s 23-year history and falls only 1.3% less than last year’s record of $901.99.
Returns Expected to Reach $850 Billion in 2025
Retailers estimate that 15.8% of their annual sales will be returned this year, totaling $849.9 billion, according to the 2025 Retail Returns Landscape report released by the NRF. The returns rate is in line with 16.9% last year, when returns totaled $890 billion.
