Synopses & Reviews
How small, one-of-a-kind businesses can break through among giants. Megachains like Wal-Mart, Starbucks, Home Depot, and the Gap attract Americans to thousands of outlets by offering a large selection of goods and services. But this doesn't mean that independent stores can't compete with the big guys and win.
Retail expert George Whalin identifies and explores twenty-five highly popular and profitable independent stores from around the country. Unlike the mom-and-pops of yesteryear, these businesses embrace technology and innovation, generate word of mouth, and turn their size into an advantage. They include:
- ABC Carpet and Home in New York City
- Powell's City of Books in Portland, Oregon
- The Junkman's Daughter in Atlanta
- Jungle Jim's International Market in Fairfield, Ohio
Readers will be inspired by how these independent stores are thriving and take away lessons they can apply to their own businesses.
Review
"George Whalin's passion for retailing shines through on every page of this terrific book as he takes readers on a magical tour of the 25 greatest independent retailers in America. If you're in retail, Retail Superstars is must reading. If you're not, you're going to love the ride." Bo Burlingham, Editor-at-Large, Inc. magazine
Review
"What can I say? I simply love Retail Superstars! While it is an incredible collection of great stories of wildly successful independent retailers, the truth is that a chain-store CEO or Regional Director, or a Training or Accounting Department boss, can learn invaluable lessons from these pages. Bravo to George Whalin for a superb job!" Tom Peters
Review
"Independents do it better. George likes Retail Mavericks, the places where the visionaries are still at the wheel. Great stories." Paco Underhill
Review
"In his latest book, Retail Superstars, George Whalin captures the essence of what it takes to be a successful independent retailer today. With a critical look at 25 of his favorite independent stores, Whalin uses his strong knowledge of the retail industry to highlight those qualities which make these businesses so successful. He not only proves independent retailers can succeed in the highly competitive retail industry, but explains just what sets apart the best retailers from the rest." David F. Vite, President & CEO, Illinois Retail Merchants Association
Synopsis
Retail expert Whalin identifies and explores 25 highly popular and profitable independent stores from around the country, offering lessons that store owners can apply to their own businesses. 25 photos throughout.
Synopsis
How small, one-of-a-kind businesses can break through among giantsMegachains like Walmart, Starbucks, Home Depot, and The Gap attract Americans to thousands of outlets by offering a large selection of goods and services. But this doesn't mean that independent stores can't compete with the big guys-and win. Retail expert George Whalin identifies and explores twenty-five highly popular and profitable independent stores from around the country. Unlike the mom-and-pops of yesteryear, these businesses embrace technology and innovation, generate word of mouth, and turn their size into an advantage. They include:
? ABC Carpet and Home in New York City
? Powell's City of Books in Portland, Oregon
? The Junkman's Daughter in Atlanta
? Jungle Jim's International Market in Fairfield, Ohio
Readers will be inspired by how these independent stores are thriving and take away lessons they can apply to their own businesses.
About the Author
George Whalin, founder of Retail Management Consultants, has advised retailers and manufacturers for more than twenty years. Prior to his consulting career, he spent twenty-five years as a store manager, owner, and retail executive. He lectures widely and appears frequently in the media. His Web site ranks among the top five retail consultant Web sites, and he writes a popular e-newsletter.