The Resilient Retail Game Plan - retail insights, retail trends and best practices

Have you ever opened your Shopify dashboard looking for one answer and somehow ended up with ten new questions? Hi, I'm retail strategist and founder of Resilient Retail Club, Catherine Erdly. Most retailers I work with don't have a lack-of-data problem — they have the opposite. They're drowning in dashboards, apps, reports, spreadsheets and AI notifications, yet they still can't confidently answer the three questions that actually matter: Am I making money? Am I on track? Is my stock healthy? More information hasn't made the decision easier. If anything, it's made it harder. In this episode I talk about cutting through the noise. I share why “tech creep” quietly drains your bank account and your attention, how new AI tools like Shopify Sidekick are changing the reporting game, and why the answer to feeling overwhelmed is almost never another subscription. Then I get into the small handful of numbers that genuinely tell you whether your business is healthy — and why clarity beats complexity every single time. If you've been feeling unsure about how things are really going in your shop, this one will help you stop guessing. By the end you'll know exactly which three numbers to check each month, what “good” looks like for each, and how to build one simple place to track them so you can see the health of your business in seconds — without drowning in data. The specific numbers, the benchmarks and the exact formula I use are all inside the episode. In this episode(00:00) Drowning in data, starving for clarity — why more tools won't fix it, and how to cut tech creep (06:45) Number 1 — Am I making money on every sale? Understanding your sales margin (11:02) Number 2 — Am I selling enough to cover my costs? The power of breakeven analysis (14:40) Number 3 — Is my stock turning fast enough? Weeks cover and why stock is cash Links & resourcesFree download — The 3 Key Numbers guide: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/numbersMy book, Tame Your Tiger: How to Stop Your Product Business Eating You Alive — where I show you how to calculate your breakeven step by stepConnect with me on LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/catherineerdlyMore episodes & the audio podcast: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast/

The shoppers who start researching Christmas earliest are also the ones who spend the most — and most retailers are invisible during exactly that window. Hi, I'm retail strategist and founder of Resilient Retail Club, Catherine Erdly. If you think July is far too early to be thinking about Christmas, this episode will change your mind. I sat down with Hannah Bartlett — founder of Jolly Festive and The Christmas Insider — to unpack why the shoppers who start researching Christmas earliest are also the ones who go on to spend the most, and why that completely changes how you should be building towards your peak season. Here's the trap most independent retailers fall into: they treat the research window and the purchase window as the same job. Right now, around 60% of shoppers are quietly building their Christmas shortlists — and holding off on actually buying until November. If you only show up when people are ready to pay, you've already missed the moment that decides where their money goes. That window is your opportunity, not your problem — but only if you know how to be in it. Hannah has distilled her forecasting into six emotional needs and four distinct aesthetic directions for Christmas 2026. In this episode she shares the framework for choosing the one that's right for YOUR business — not just whatever the big retailers are doing. Press play and you'll walk away knowing how to show up in your customers' research phase, how to plan your stock and marketing around emotional connection rather than discounting, and how to set yourself up for your most profitable fourth quarter yet. Chapters00:00 — Why the earliest Christmas shoppers spend the most 03:33 — The six emotional needs shaping Christmas 2026 08:02 — The four aesthetic directions to plan around 13:44 — How to choose your direction and bring it to life Links & resourcesConnect with me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/catherineerdlyMore from Resilient Retail Club — podcast page: resilientretailclub.com/podcastHannah Bartlett — The Christmas Insider: thechristmasinsider.comDiscover independent brands to stock on Faire: faire.comPlan a profitable Q4 with Stock Doctor: stockdoctor.net Mentioned in this episode: This podcast uses chapters

We're coming up fast on the halfway point of the year — and if that fills you with dread, don't panic. Here's the good news: a midyear review beats a New Year's resolution every time, because right now you're not working from a theory about how the year might go. You have six months of real data. This episode is how you use it. Oh, and the episode comes with a free download - https://www.resilientretailclub.com/recap (Our sponsor Faire are offering 50% off and free shipping on first orders until July 31st. Simply add the code "Resilient50" at checkout) Hi, I'm retail strategist and founder of Resilient Retail Club, Catherine Erdly. And in this episode of the Resilient Retail Game Plan, I'm walking you through the exact process I've used with members, course students, and clients over and over again: look back honestly at the first half of the year, then use what you find to spring-board into a stronger second half. The key word is honestly — without blame, without self-recrimination, and without brushing past everything you've actually achieved. We start with the numbers: your total sales versus plan, your best sellers by value, units and profit, and a "dead weight audit" of what hasn't moved. But the real value isn't the figures themselves — it's asking why they happened, because knowing why you succeeded is as useful as the number itself. From there we look at conversion rate, average order value, your sales channels, a social-media audit, and a relationship audit of the suppliers, stockists, and couriers you depend on. Then we get subjective — and I make no apology for it. We celebrate your wins out loud, run a start / stop / continue on the first half, and use a 20-minute SWOT analysis as an emotional clearing exercise to get the 3am worries out of your head and onto paper. Finally, we refocus. If midyear admin usually fills you with dread, this is the episode that turns it into momentum. There's a free downloadable workbook to do it alongside me. Chapter Timestamps 00:00 — Why a midyear recap beats January 1st: you have real data now01:33 — Revisiting the goals you set in January (without the self-blame)03:40 — The numbers that matter — and why you should ask why they happened06:10 — Best sellers: value, units, and profit08:06 — The dead weight audit: stuck stock and disappointing lines09:33 — Conversion rate and average order value10:28 — Sales channels: are you investing where it's actually working?11:20 — The social media and relationship audits13:17 — What worked, what didn't, and start / stop / continue16:29 — How the business feels: SWOT and the 20-year interview19:31 — Refocusing for half two: set your number and key dates21:41 — Your homework Useful Links Free midyear recap workbook: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/recapResilient Retail Club podcast: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast/Catherine on LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/catherineerdly Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Right now, as you read this, an AI chatbot is running a real retail store in San Francisco — managing the product selection, deciding what to stock, and curating a customer experience. It sounds like science fiction. It is already open for business. And it is just one signal of how fast the rules of retail discovery are changing. (Our sponsor Faire are offering 50% off and free shipping on first orders until July 31st. Simply add the code "Resilient50" at checkout) Hi, I'm retail strategist and founder of Resilient Retail Club, Catherine Erdly. And in this episode of the Resilient Retail Game Plan, I'm exploring one of the biggest shifts I've seen in how customers discover products: agentic AI. This is AI that doesn't just respond to questions — it researches, compares, recommends, and in some cases, actually completes the purchase. For independent retailers and product businesses with an online presence, this changes the rules. The question is no longer just how do you rank on Google — it's how do you become the answer when an AI agent is asked to find the best product for a specific need. I dig into what agentic AI actually means, how people are already using it to shop, and what that means for the way you present your products online. I share research from the OECD, insights from Andrew Bialecki at Klaviyo, the work of retail expert Jackie Swanson, and a fascinating case study in the form of Andon Market — a real shop in San Francisco that is being managed end-to-end by an AI chatbot called Luna, which was given a three-year lease and told to make a profit. If you're an independent retailer or product business owner with an e-commerce presence, this episode is essential listening. The shift is already happening. Understanding it now means you can take simple, practical steps to make sure your products are visible in the new discovery landscape — before your competitors even realise the rules have changed. Chapter Timestamps 00:00 — Are robots taking over shopping? And what agentic AI actually is 02:05 — AI at both ends: retailers using AI and shoppers using AI — the data 04:50 — Luna and Andon Market: the AI chatbot running a real retail store 07:00 — Agent-to-agent commerce: Andrew Bialecki on what retailers need to prepare for 09:30 — What to actually do: getting your data right for AI discovery 11:25 — How customer search behaviour is changing and what it means for your product pages 13:45 — The three things to start with: titles, key info, and natural language 14:48 — The philosophical question: are we handing over too much to AI? Useful Links Resilient Retail Club podcast: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast/ Catherine on LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/catherineerdly Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

What would it mean for your retail business if — right now, at this very moment — three thousand creators were actively requesting samples to promote your brand? That's not a fantasy for Luke Arnall-Cameron, founder of YASS CLEAN. It's Tuesday. That's just how his business works. Hi, I'm retail strategist and founder of Resilient Retail Club, Catherine Erdly. This episode is brought to you by Faire. As you will hear in the actual show, they're offering 50% off and free shipping against your first order. Use the code "Resilient50" In this episode, I sit down with Luke Arnall-Cameron — a former John Lewis graduate buyer and marketing director turned TikTok creator and brand founder — to unpick one of the most significant shifts happening in retail right now: discovery commerce. TikTok Shop has fundamentally changed how products reach consumers. Instead of paying for ads, brands are now building creator networks — and the smartest ones are doing it in a way that mirrors exactly what every good retailer already knows about range building, customer loyalty, and repeat purchase. Luke launched YAS CLEAN in November 2024. His first livestream generated £70,000. Within his first year he fulfilled over 650,000 orders across six countries, sold 10,000 bottles of one product in seven days, and achieved 45% repeat customer rates in December — for a cleaning brand, in the hardest trading month of the year. He also won TikTok's Breakout Seller of the Year Award. But what makes this conversation genuinely useful for any product business owner isn't the headline numbers. It's the retail logic behind every decision he made — why virality isn't a strategy, how to think about product range in a world driven by social selling, and what discovery commerce means for anyone selling physical products. If you want to understand whether TikTok Shop belongs in your channel mix, this episode is for you. Chapter Timestamps00:00 — The hook: 3,000 creators waiting to promote one product01:26 — Luke's retail career: From John Lewis buyer to TikTok creator04:12 — YAS CLEAN launch: £70K first livestream and 650,000 orders in year one10:02 — Building a product range vs chasing viral moments15:45 — Discovery commerce explained: How TikTok Shop's creator model works19:34 — Live shopping as real-time customer feedback Useful LinksYAS CLEAN on TikTok: @yasclean Get 50% off and free shipping with Faire - https://fairewholesaleinc.sjv.io/APj4ax Resilient Retail Club: www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast/ Catherine on LinkedIn: uk.linkedin.com/in/catherineerdly Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

AI is everywhere in retail right now — but are you actually using it in a way that's helping your business grow, or could it quietly be working against you? This episode is brought you by Faire who are offering 50% off and free shipping against new orders. Use the code "Resilient50" at checkout. This episode also features a free downloadable resource. Go to http://resilientretailclub.com/ai to claim it. Hi, I'm retail strategist and founder of Resilient Retail Club, Catherine Erdly. And in this episode of the Resilient Retail Game Plan, I'm sharing the honest picture of how independent retailers are actually using generative AI in 2026. According to government data, just 16% of UK businesses are formally using AI — yet surveys suggest up to 80% of SME decision-makers have tried it in some form. The reality? Most people are using it to write emails faster, draft product descriptions, handle awkward customer messages, and generate ideas. And that's where it genuinely shines. But there are pitfalls too. I'm talking through the messy data problem that makes AI-powered sales analysis fall flat, the real concerns around AI imagery and brand trust, what I think went badly wrong with AI content (including something from my own business that I'm still mortified by), and why leaning on AI for big decisions might be giving you confidence you haven't earned. If you want to use AI smarter — and stay distinctly, unmistakably you — this episode is for you. In this episode: • How retailers are really using AI in 2026 — the stats and the reality • Product pages, agentic AI, and why clarity beats fluff • The messy data problem and what to fix first • AI customer service: the triage approach that works • AI imagery — the jury's still out, and here's why • What NOT to use AI for (including fully AI-written content) • The voice note / brain dump method that keeps your content sounding like you • The confirmation bias problem with using AI for decisions CHAPTERS: 00:01:25 How Retailers Are Using AI Right Now 00:07:32 Customer Service, Data & AI Imagery 00:13:43 What Not to Use AI For — and the Voice Note Method Connect with Catherine: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/catherineerdly/ Podcast: resilientretailclub.com/podcast Mentioned in this episode: Get 50% off at Faire Go to Faire.com and enter code "Resilient50" Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50' Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

71% of independent retailers in the UK are growing or stable. And 9 in 10 shoppers say AI has made them MORE likely to trust your shop over an algorithm. Here is what the data actually says. (Our sponsor Faire are offering 50% off and free shipping on first orders until July 31st. Simply add the code "Resilient50" at checkout) Hi, I'm retail strategist and founder of Resilient Retail Club, Catherine Erdly. Are you tired of reading headlines that make it sound like independent retail is finished? The noise about AI, empty high streets, and big-box competition can feel genuinely frightening if you are running a small business. But what if the data tells a completely different story — and what if that story is one you desperately needed to hear? In this episode, I sit down with Elyse McAvoy from Faire to unpack the Voices of Retail report — a landmark piece of research that surveyed 650 independent retailers and over 2,000 UK consumers. It is the first time a report of this kind has merged the retailer perspective and the consumer perspective into one honest picture of what is actually happening on Britain's high streets. And the findings will surprise you. Once you listen, you will leave with a clear understanding of what is separating retailers who are growing from those who are struggling, a completely new perspective on AI and your business, and three specific actions you can take this month. If you have been feeling uncertain about whether your shop has a future, this is the episode that will give you the data — and the confidence — to move forward. CHAPTERS 00:00 — Introduction: Why This Report Matters for Every Independent Retailer 02:30 — Key Findings: AI, the 71% Statistic and the Branding Gap 07:13 — Consumer Spending Power: What Shoppers Are Ready to Spend With You 10:28 — What to Do Now: Three Practical Actions to Take This Month USEFUL LINKS 📥 Download the Voices of Retail report free from the Spring Fair website — link in show notes 🛒 Explore Faire as a wholesale marketplace: faire.com 🎙 More episodes: resilientretailclub.com/podcast 🔗 Connect with Catherine: linkedin.com/in/catherineerdly Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50' This podcast uses chapters

Do you ever feel like you're doing everything right, yet somehow still falling behind? If you run an independent retail business, you are not imagining things. Between buying stock, managing your team, keeping up with your marketing, handling customer service, and everything else that lands on your desk — the sheer volume of what your job involves would overwhelm anyone. This is not a time management failure. It is simply the reality of running a retail business single-handedly. But there is a question underneath all of this that most retailers never stop to ask, and it is the one that changes everything. Hi, I'm retail strategist and founder of Resilient Retail Club, Catherine Erdly. And in this episode of the Resilient Retail Game Plan, I'm unpacking the framework I use with my one-to-one clients in my Retail by Design programme — a step-by-step approach to understanding how you're really spending your time, building a structure that actually works, and protecting the focused work hours that move your business forward. If you have been telling yourself for months that you will start that project "when things slow down" — this episode is for you. I work with clients who have just two hours a day after the kids are in bed, and clients who get one day a week away from the shop floor. The system I'm sharing works at every capacity level. Listen to the end to discover a clear, practical path out of the overwhelm — and toward a calmer, more intentional, and ultimately more profitable week. Listener Benefits (What You'll Discover) Why most independent retailers have less time than they think — and why that's actually the start of something usefulThe exact time-tracking method that reveals where your hours are really going (with a free tool recommendation)How to build a weekly structure around your BAU tasks so you're not starting from scratch every MondayWhy being "always available" is silently costing you hours every week — and the simple boundaries that fix it 📍 Ready to reclaim your time? Free resources: resilientretailclub.com/juggle Chapter Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction: Why Independent Retailers Are Always Falling Behind 02:34 – Steps 1 & 2: How to Track Your Time and Understand What's Really Happening 06:10 – Steps 3 & 4: Building Your Weekly Structure and Batching Your Tasks 12:35 – Steps 5 & 6: Quarterly Planning, Decision Fatigue, and Knowing When to Let Go Links & Resources 🔗 Free time management resources: resilientretailclub.com/juggle 🔗 The Resilient Retail Club: resilientretailclub.com 📱 Toggl (free time-tracking app): toggl.com 🎙️ Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube — new episodes every Thursday Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

"How much should I order?" sounds like one question. It's actually two — and most product business owners only ever answer one of them. (This episode features a free download resource at http://resilientretailclub.com/order) Hi, I'm retail strategist and founder of Resilient Retail Club, Catherine Erdly. In this episode, I'm breaking down the critical difference between product-level stock ordering (the tactical "how many of this line") and business-level stock planning (the strategic "what can I afford overall"). Drawing on my time as a buyer at Paperchase and the frameworks in my book Tame Your Tiger, I'll explain why forecasting apps, Shopify Sidekick, ChatGPT and Claude can all give you the right answer to the wrong question — and how that slowly turns a healthy business into a cash-hungry "tiger". In this episode: Why most stock forecasting tools assume you have unlimited cashThe simple reorder calculation that still mattersWhat "the tail" isThree better questions to ask before you place a single orderThe supermarket scanner analogy that makes stock budgeting click If you're constantly reordering but never feel on top of your stock, pause and plan with this one. 🐅 Tame Your Tiger — my book on stock, cash flow and building a calmer product business 💬 Come and say hi on Instagram: @resilientretailclub Prefer to watch podcasts? Here's mine - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLwFwdhK_WMJvXntxKLZj83Inz1fFNAN2P Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

You’ve opened your shop. You’re selling. You have loyal customers. And yet something feels stuck... (this episode features a free download resource at http://resilientretailclub.com/systems Your sales are inconsistent, stock builds up or runs out, cash feels tight even on the good weeks. Hi, I'm retail strategist and founder of Resilient Retail Club, Catherine Erdly. In this episode, I'm naming the “invisible ceiling” independent retailers hit when they move from opening a shop to running a proper retail business — and explain exactly what structure the next level needs. Drawing on my recent road trip through Devon, Cornwall and Dorset, and nearly 20 years inside seven-, eight-, nine- and ten-figure retail chains, I'll talk you through the systems that separate hobby shops from real businesses: sales plans, stock plans, trading calendars, cash flow visibility, team roles and SOPs. If you’ve ever wondered “is there more to this?” — this episode is your answer. In this episode: Why so many independent retailers start their business “almost by accident”The invisible ceiling that stalls shops around the 1–3 year markThe difference between opening a shop and running a retail businessThe six systems every next-level retail business needsWhy there is no such thing as a “natural business person” — and what to do insteadHow to know whether you need the Stock Doctor, Retail by Design, or just the back catalogue Resources mentioned: Episode 299 — Retail Bottleneck: How to Stop Being the “Go-To” for Every Answer in Your BusinessBook: Tame Your Tiger: How to Stop Your Product Business Eating You AliveStock Doctor — done-for-you stock managementRetail by Design — my 1:1 serviceThe Resilient Retail Club — reopening later this yearresilientretailclub.com Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

This episode contains a freebie download. Scroll down to find it. Believe it or not — today is episode 300 of the Resilient Retail Game Plan. Hi, I'm Catherine Erdly and in this episode, which is six years, 300 episodes, and over 1 million downloads later since I started this podcast, I'm sharing a fast track to the biggest themes that have shaped this podcast and the retailers who listen to it. In this milestone episode, I'll walk you through the four essential episodes from the back catalogue that I believe every independent retailer needs to hear. Whether you're brand new to the show or a long-time listener, these are the ones that cut to the heart of what it really takes to build a resilient retail business. So what are the three big themes? Stock. Profit. And mindset. Visit the episode's show notes for links to all the episodes mentioned at https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast-episode/retail-stock-management-profit-and-mindset/ And ensure you go to this link for your free download: resilientretailclub.com/300.

This episode is sponsored by Intuit Mailchimp. Do your retail team ask you the same questions over and over? Has "what are we focusing on this week?" become the soundtrack to your inbox? Hi, I'm Catherine Erdly and in Episode 299 of the Resilient Retail Game Plan, I'm explaining why so many independent retailers and product business owners accidentally become a bottleneck inside their own business — and walk you through exactly how to fix it. You'll learn why the classic wheel-and-spoke information flow creates constant delays, inconsistency and interruptions; why growing your team makes it worse rather than better; and how to build a single source of truth that finally gets your team self-serving the answers they need. I'll also share a £100,000 lesson from my Coast days on what poor information flow really costs a business, the categories to include in your single source of truth (weekly focus, key dates, stock and order trackers, priorities, SOPs), and the crucial step most business owners skip — how to actually make your team use it. If you've built a business that can't run without you in the room, this is the episode to start unpicking it. Chapters00:00 Why Everyone Asks You01:18 The Bottleneck Wheel02:52 Build One Source of Truth04:20 What £100,000 of Poor Information Flow Really Costs05:50 What to Put in Your Single Source of Truth08:27 Why It Won't Stick (And How to Fix It)10:22 Holding the Line With Your Team13:05 Where to Start (Small and Specific)14:20 Wrap-Up Related linksResilient Retail Club: https://resilientretailclub.comRetail Roar 2026 summit: https://retailroar.co.ukListen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcastsPrefer to watch? Full episode playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLwFwdhK_WMJvXntxKLZj83Inz1fFNAN2P About the podcastThe Resilient Retail Game Plan is a podcast for independent retailers and product business owners who want to build more profitable, sustainable businesses. Hosted by Catherine Erdly — retail expert, coach and founder of The Resilient Retail Club. If this episode helped, hit like, subscribe and share it with another retailer who needs to hear it. Mentioned in this episode: Mailchimp resilientretailclub.com/mailchimp

If you're sending the same email to everyone on your list and wondering why it's not driving the sales you expected, this episode is for you. I'm Catherine Erdly, and this is Resilient Retail Game Plan — practical product business advice with a healthy dose of reality. In this episode I'm sitting down with Ali Wood from Intuit Mailchimp to get practical about how independent retailers and e-commerce brands can get dramatically more from their email and SMS marketing — using data they already have. We talk about why fragmented data is costing retailers real money, how segmentation can transform your customer relationships, and why the retailers who win over the next few years won't be the ones with the biggest budgets — they'll be the ones who are smartest with their data. In this episode you'll hear about: Why sending the same message to your whole list is leaving money on the tableHow to use customer lifetime value and buying propensity to automate smarter campaignsThe power of combining email and SMS — including a 22x ROI stat from SMS alone, and 41x when Shopify data is in the mixCreative ways to collect richer customer data through quizzes, pop-ups and behavioural signalsWhat clean data + AI + human creativity actually looks like for a lean retail team Whether you're just starting to think about segmentation or already running email campaigns and want to level up, this conversation will leave you with a genuinely different way of thinking about your marketing. CHAPTERS 00:00:40 The Gold Mine Independent Retailers Are Sitting On 00:02:10 Meet Ali Wood from Intuit Mailchimp 00:04:40 How Intuit Mailchimp Evolved from Email Tool to Full Automation Platform 00:08:22 The Segmentation Shift: Stop Sending the Same Email to Everyone 00:11:29 Creative Ways to Collect Better Customer Data 00:14:45 Using SMS to Drive Email Open Rates 00:15:11 How We're Working With Intuit Mailchimp 00:16:33 Measuring What's Actually Working Across All Your Channels 00:18:30 Think Strategy, Not Just Open Rates 00:21:17 SMS Best Practices: What's Working for E-Commerce Brands 00:23:24 The Trust Factor: Why Phone Numbers Are Different from Email Addresses 00:23:44 The Numbers: 22x ROI on SMS, 41x with Shopify 00:25:58 AI + Human Creativity: The Future of Small Business Marketing 00:27:45 Clean Data, Automation & Analytics: The Loop That Wins 00:29:07 Catherine's Key Takeaways & Call to Action Mentioned in this episode: resilientretailclub.com/mailchimp Note: This episode was produced in partnership with Intuit Mailchimp. All views expressed are Catherine's own. Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Your shop window isn't just a display — it's a salesperson working for you around the clock. I'm Catherine Erdly, and this is Resilient Retail Game Plan — practical product business advice with a healthy dose of reality. In this episode, I'm joined by Sarah Manning, visual merchandising consultant and course leader, for a practical masterclass on how to make your window impossible to walk past. Sarah shares her four guiding principles — including her signature framework, The Power of the Pyramid — and explains exactly what should (and shouldn't) go in your window. You'll learn why putting your bestsellers on show is usually the wrong move, how to refresh your display every four weeks without a full rebuild, and practical solutions for shallow, narrow, or open-backed windows. We also explore how post-2020 customer expectations have shifted the balance between product display and brand storytelling, and discuss the concept of 'external theatre' — the tools even small independents can use to draw customers in before they reach the window at all. Whether you sell from a shop, at markets, or at events, this episode is packed with actionable insight you can put to work immediately. What You'll Learn: The Power of the Pyramid framework and how to apply it to any displayWhy new, seasonal, and promotional products belong in the window — not your top sellersHow to change your window every four weeks without starting from scratchCreative solutions for awkward, shallow, or open-backed windowsHow the hotspot inside your store connects to your window displayWhere to find visual merchandising inspiration on a limited budget 📌 CHAPTERS: 00:37 About this episode — how the topic came from Spring Fair01:35 The Power of the Pyramid — Sarah's four guiding principles02:30 Brand story vs. product push: what's changed since 202004:36 What should actually go in your window?05:53 How often should you change your window display?07:27 The permanent skeleton approach08:33 Working with difficult or shallow windows10:18 Open windows vs. backed windows11:55 External theatre: beyond the glass14:57 The hotspot — your 'third window' inside the store16:45 Where to find visual merchandising inspiration20:00 Outro and where to find Sarah Manning Connect with me 🔗: → LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/catherineerdly/ → Resilient Retail Club: https://www.resilientretailclub.com → Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/resilientretailclub/ 🎧 LISTEN ON YOUR FAVOURITE PODCAST APP: → Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/resilient-retail-game-plan/id1558090069 → Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2EIPFznxQFQHIXmC3QoBFQ Resources Mentioned: Sarah Manning: visualmerchandisingcourses.co.uk | @visualmerchandisingcoursesThe Shop Drop Blog by Tim Nash — free newsletter every Thursday Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50' Mailchimp resilientretailclub.com/mailchimp

Have you ever looked at the news and wondered whether it's even appropriate to be selling your products right now? If you're an independent retailer or product business owner and the state of the world is making you hesitate about showing up and selling, this episode is for you. I'm Catherine Erdly, and this is Resilient Retail Game Plan — practical product business advice with a healthy dose of reality. This week, one of the most common questions I get from product business owners: should I keep selling when the world feels uncertain? In this episode: → Why big brands never pause their marketing — and what that means for you → Why independent retailers are a genuine force for good → The lipstick effect and what consumer spending data actually shows right now → A practical social media tip to help you show up more consistently 📌 CHAPTERS: 00:00:00 Introduction & the question everyone's asking 00:00:44 When selling feels wrong: the shared experience 00:01:42 Why this feeling is so common in product businesses 00:02:51 The mental noise of running your own business 00:06:04 The self-fulfilling prophecy & the big brand reality check 00:08:25 Why small businesses are a force for good 00:09:55 Your duty to share what you do 00:11:30 The lipstick effect: are people actually spending? 00:12:18 A visit to Columbia Road Flower Market 00:12:57 Products are how people show love 00:13:31 None of this is trivial 00:14:23 Practical tip: separate your social media accounts 00:16:08 How Catherine implemented this herself 00:17:25 A message for every independent retailer 🔗 LINKS MENTIONED: → Mean Mail: https://www.meanmail.co.uk → Retail Roar 2026: https://retailroar.co.uk → Resilient Retail Club: https://www.resilientretailclub.com 🎧 LISTEN ON YOUR FAVOURITE PODCAST APP: → Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/resilient-retail-game-plan/id1558090069 → Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2EIPFznxQFQHIXmC3QoBFQ Mentioned in this episode: Mailchimp resilientretailclub.com/mailchimp Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Nobody talks about how lonely it can be to run a small business. Your friends and family mean well — but they don't really get it. If you have a team, you feel like you have to have all the answers. And whether you're on the shop floor, in your home office, or in your unit, there's a good chance your dog is getting more of your business thoughts than any actual human being. I'm Catherine Erdly, and this is Resilient Retail Game Plan — practical product business advice with a healthy dose of reality. In this episode, I'm being honest about the one thing most business owners never talk about: isolation. And why community — real, practical, human community — isn't a nice-to-have. It's fundamental. You'll hear: Why business loneliness is more common than anyone admits — and why it mattersHow being in a community speeds up your learning, builds confidence, and protects your resilienceWhy hearing about other people's tough weeks can actually make your own feel more manageableHow community can drive real commercial results — referrals, collaborations, and salesAll about the Retail Roar 2026 Facebook community and why it might be just as valuable as the summit itself If you've been feeling flat, isolated, or like nobody around you truly gets what you're going through — this episode is for you. 🏟️ Free Retail Roar ticket: retailroar.co.uk 📩 Join the Resilient Retail Club: resilientretailclub.com 📲 Follow on Instagram: @resilientretailclub ⏱ Chapters: 00:00 Intro 01:13 The Loneliness of Business 03:56 Why Community Matters 06:42 Join the Retail Roar 2026 Community Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Retail is moving fast — and it can feel like whiplash trying to keep up with every new trend, tool, and headline. But here's the thing: as a small or independent retailer, you don't need to know everything. You just need the right information, filtered through the lens of what actually matters for your business. In this episode, I'm sharing everything you need to know about Retail Roar 2026 — my free two-day online industry outlook summit taking place on 26th and 27th March — and why I believe it's the most important shortcut you can take as an independent retailer or brand this year. You'll hear about: Why staying on top of industry trends actually protects both your business and your peace of mindThe line between useful information and overwhelming noise — and how to find itHow understanding the current consumer mindset can change how you stock, market, and sellThe headline speaker I spent three years trying to book: the legendary Mary PortasExpert sessions on email marketing, SEO, AI search, wholesale trends, marketing strategy, and the future of the high street The expert lineup includes: Mary Portas — retail legend, broadcaster, and champion of independent retailEman Ismail — email strategist on what's changing in email for 2026Vee Roberts (Insights for Marketing) — marketing strategy and trendsLuke Carthy — SEO and AI search, and what your website needs to do differentlyTherese Oertenblad (Small Business Collaborative) — wholesale trends and how to get seenIan Nicholson (Vacant Shops Academy) — placemaking and what makes a great high street This isn't fluffy. It's information for action — curated specifically for small and independent retailers and brands, so you can stop guessing and start planning with confidence. Get your free ticket at retailroar.co.uk 📩 Join the community: https://resilientretailclub.com/ 📲 Follow on Instagram: @resilientretailclub Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Most independent retailers have heard the advice to "build a community." Far fewer have been shown exactly how to do it — and even fewer have built one that actually buys. In this episode I'm joined by Ronke Fashola, founder of Love Your Look — a bold, inclusive, colour-forward fashion brand whose customers travel from Scotland and Cardiff to her pop-up shops, answer Instagram queries before she even gets to them, and send garments back to be taken in when they lose weight rather than part with something they love. Ronke has spent the last couple of years building a retail community the hard, human way: photo shoots open to everyone, WhatsApp groups built on genuine conversation, measurement checks for every new customer, and an in-house tailor. In this episode she breaks down exactly how she did it. We also look at Joanie Clothing's collapse as a case study in what happens when a retail brand stops feeling human — and what every independent retailer can learn from it. In this episode you'll hear: • The photo shoot that attracted 70 applicants and became the foundation of a loyal retail community • How to structure a brand WhatsApp group that people actually want to be in • What Joanie got wrong — and the community strategy that could have saved them • Why checking every new customer's measurements before their first order ships reduces returns and builds trust • How offering free in-house alterations turns one-time buyers into customers for life • The Friday night phone call that changed how Ronke thinks about fabric Sign up free at retailroar.co.uk — come and see what's possible. 📩 Join my community: https://resilientretailclub.com/ 📲 Follow me on Instagram: @resilientretailclub Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50' Mailchimp resilientretailclub.com/mailchimp

Have you been feeling stuck in your own head in your retail business? Overthinking every decision, wondering if you're the only one finding it hard? There's a phrase I love: You can't read a label from inside the jar.And when you're living and breathing your business every single day, it's incredibly hard to see beyond where you are right now. In this episode, I share one of the fastest ways I've found to shift your perspective — and it's the whole reason I created Retail Roar, my free online summit returning on 26–27 March. I'll walk you through some of the stories from our guest speakers, including one who shipped 650,000 orders in his first year on TikTok, to others who built a chain of 41 bridal boutiques, and another who went from her kitchen table to six-figure months. I also explain why inspiration isn't just about feeling good — it has three very real, practical business effects: it helps you think bigger, get re-energised with your marketing, and make braver decisions. Sign up free at retailroar.co.uk — come and see what's possible. 📩 Join my community: https://resilientretailclub.com/ 📲 Follow me on Instagram: @resilientretailclub Mentioned in this episode: Mailchimp resilientretailclub.com/mailchimp Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Do you ever feel like you're drowning in data but still can't answer the simple question: is my business actually going in the right direction? Here's the truth: if your sales numbers feel like noise, you're probably looking at the wrong things — or avoiding looking altogether. I'm Catherine Erdly, and this is Resilient Retail Game Plan — practical product business advice with a healthy dose of reality. In this episode, I'm revealing: ✓ Why having loads of data can actually keep you more confused, not less ✓ The magic eye problem: why staring at daily sales is stopping you seeing the real picture ✓ The difference between guessing and deciding — and why it matters for your bottom line ✓ The 3 Rs framework: Record, Review, Refine — and how to make it genuinely simple ✓ Why a zero-sales day doesn't mean a bad month (and what to look at instead) Stop reacting to the noise and start reading the story your numbers are actually telling you. Join the Retail Sales Game Plan (cart now open!): resilientretailclub.com/retailsales Resilient Retail Club: https://www.resilientretailclub.com Listen on your favourite podcast app: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast Enjoying the show? DM your takeaways or questions to @resilientretailclub on Instagram. And if the podcast's been useful to you, please do follow, rate, and review with a comment on Apple Podcasts or Spotify (or both!) — it helps more product businesses find us. Mentioned in this episode: Mailchimp resilientretailclub.com/mailchimp Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Do you ever feel like you're constantly trying to convince people to buy? Like you're always explaining, justifying, or pushing a little harder than you'd like? Here's the truth: if selling feels exhausting, you're probably spending too much time talking to the wrong people. I'm Catherine Erdly, and this is Resilient Retail Game Plan — practical product business advice with a healthy dose of reality. In this episode, I'm revealing: ✓ Why nobody is more likely to buy than someone who already bought from you ✓ The party principle: why you're standing outside instead of going in ✓ How focusing on cold audiences burns you out (and kills your profit) ✓ The 1,000 true fans framework that changes everything ✓ Practical steps to turn one-time buyers into repeat customers Stop chasing strangers and start serving the customers who are already inside your door. Links Join the Retail Sales Game Plan waitlist (kicking off end of Feb): resilientretailclub.com/retailsales Resilient Retail Club: https://www.resilientretailclub.com Listen on your favourite podcast app: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast Enjoying the show? DM your takeaways or questions to @resilientretailclub on Instagram. And if the podcast's useful, please follow, rate, and review — it helps more product businesses find us. Mentioned in this episode: Mailchimp resilientretailclub.com/mailchimp Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Feel like you're shouting into the void with your marketing? You're not alone—and it's not your fault. Social media wants you reactive, emotional, and constantly second-guessing yourself. Meanwhile, big retailers operate from detailed seasonal plans made months in advance. I’m Catherine Erdly, and this is Resilient Retail Game Plan — practical product business advice with a healthy dose of reality. In this episode, I'm revealing: ✓ Why sporadic marketing makes sales feel random ✓ How algorithms keep you stuck in chaos ✓ What big retailers do differently (without massive teams) ✓ The marketing structure that actually works for small businesses Stop waking up wondering "what should I post today?" and start building a plan you can trust. Links Get your free Calmer and Consistent Sales Planner: resilientretailclub.com/sales Join the Retail Sales Game Plan waitlist (reopening Feb): resilientretailclub.com/retailsales Resilient Retail Club: https://www.resilientretailclub.com Listen on your favourite podcast app: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast Enjoying the show? DM your takeaways or questions to @resilientretailclub on Instagram. And if the podcast’s useful, please follow, rate, and review — it helps more product businesses find us. Mentioned in this episode: Mailchimp resilientretailclub.com/mailchimp Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Why Profit Matters More Than Sales in Indie Retail Sales growth is often treated as the goal in retail. But without profit, growth just creates more pressure. In this episode of Resilient Retail Game Plan, we look at why profit isn’t optional for independent retailers, and how better stock decisions change far more than just the numbers. I’m Catherine Erdly, and this is Resilient Retail Game Plan — practical product business advice with a healthy dose of reality. This isn’t about chasing turnover. And it’s not about discounting everything to keep cash moving. It’s about making deliberate, data led decisions that protect margin, reduce stock pressure, and give you room to breathe. I’m joined by Paola Majuli, Stock Doctor and former senior merchandiser at global retail brands, to unpack what actually happens when retailers stop reacting and start managing stock with intention. Together, we talk through real client results, what the numbers are showing after six months and a year, and why confidence often returns once the chaos settles. In this episode, we cover: Why profit, not cash flow alone, keeps retail businesses sustainable What blanket discounting really costs you over time How retailers increased sales while holding less stock Why margin awareness changes decision making What better stock management does for confidence and clarity How strategic discounting differs from panic discounting We also talk about Black Friday, overstock, pricing confidence, and why being selective about what you discount can actually drive stronger results than putting everything on sale. If you’re running an independent shop and feel stuck in a cycle of buying, discounting, and hoping for the best, this episode will help you think more clearly about how profit, stock, and confidence fit together. Chapters 00:00 Why profit isn’t optional 01:13 The real problem with blanket discounting 04:08 What the numbers show after six months and a year 06:27 Pricing, margin, and confidence 10:09 Why stock decisions matter more than people realise 12:36 How better data changes behaviour 17:47 Smarter Black Friday strategies 23:44 What confidence looks like in profitable businesses Links Stock Doctor: https://stockdoctor.net Resilient Retail Club: https://www.resilientretailclub.com Listen on your favourite podcast app: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast Enjoying the show? DM your takeaways or questions to @resilientretailclub on Instagram. And if the podcast’s useful, please follow, rate, and review — it helps more product businesses find us. Mentioned in this episode: Mailchimp resilientretailclub.com/mailchimp Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

When Is the Right Time to Open a Second Shop? Opening another shop is often seen as the obvious next step in retail growth. But knowing when to do it, and whether your business is actually ready, is far harder. In this episode of Resilient Retail Game Plan, we look at what really changes when you move from one shop to two, and then beyond. With thanks to this episode’s sponsor SumUp. Get 10% off SumUp hardware with the code GamePlan10 at https://sumup.co.uk I’m Catherine Erdly, and this is Resilient Retail Game Plan — practical product business advice with a healthy dose of reality. This isn’t about chasing expansion for the sake of it. And it’s not a checklist for opening multiple locations. It’s about timing, clarity, and understanding whether the business you have today can genuinely support what comes next. I’m joined by independent retailer Sarah Holmes, from Pencil Me In, who has grown from one shop to three across different locations in Scotland. Together, we unpack how those decisions were made, what changed at each stage, and why the second shop is often the hardest. In this episode, we cover: How to tell if your current shop is ready to support growthWhy growth often feels like exposure rather than reliefWhat changes when each location needs a different roleHow buying mistakes multiply once you have more than one shopWhy clarity matters more than creativity in multi-store retailLetting go of control without losing standards We also talk about how expansion changes your relationship with risk, cash, and your team, and why growth should support the life you want to run, not just the business you want to build. If you’re running one shop and wondering whether there could be more, or you’re already managing multiple locations and want it to feel simpler, this episode will help you think more clearly about what growth should look like for you. Chapters00:00 Why growth is a timing question, not a goal 01:16 From one shop to three and why pacing matters 06:19 Why growth feels like exposure, not relief 09:30 Why each shop needs a clear job to do 11:03 Specialising instead of stocking everything 15:32 The danger of unchecked buying decisions 18:08 Using data to protect cash as you grow 22:22 Letting go without losing control 29:46 Choosing growth that fits your life Links Retail by Design: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/retail-by-design Resilient Retail Club: https://www.resilientretailclub.com Listen on your favourite podcast app: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast Enjoying the show? DM your takeaways or questions to @resilientretailclub on Instagram. And if the podcast’s useful, please follow, rate, and review — it helps more product businesses find us. Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50' Mailchimp resilientretailclub.com/mailchimp

The 5 Problems Growing Retail Businesses Don’t Expect (But Almost Always Face) If your retail business looks successful on paper but feels far harder than it should behind the scenes, this episode is for you. With thanks to this episode’s sponsor SumUp. Get 10% off SumUp hardware with the code GamePlan10 at https://sumup.co.uk I’m Catherine Erdly, and this is Resilient Retail Game Plan — practical product business advice with a healthy dose of reality. This isn’t about fixing beginner mistakes or chasing the next growth tactic. It’s about what happens once your business has momentum, and instinct alone stops being enough. After working with hundreds of established product businesses, I see the same problems come up again and again. Not because founders are doing things wrong, but because the business has outgrown the way it’s being run. In this episode, I walk through the 5 problems growing retail businesses don’t expect (but almost always face). These include: Why growth often creates chaos instead of clarityWhat it really means when you don’t trust your numbersWhy being busy doesn’t always mean you’re moving forwardHow everything living in your head turns you into the bottleneckWhat to do when your business no longer fits your life We also talk about why structure isn’t restrictive, how it creates freedom, and what it looks like when a business is designed to support the person running it, not drain them. If any of this feels familiar, it doesn’t mean you’re failing. It usually means you’ve outgrown the stage you’re operating at. Chapters 00:00 Why growth starts to feel heavy 01:36 When success creates chaos 06:09 Learning to trust your numbers 08:26 Busy versus real progress 11:06 Everything living in your head 15:25 When your business stops fitting your life 18:10 Retail by Design Links Retail by Design: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/retail-by-design Resilient Retail Club: https://www.resilientretailclub.com Listen on your favourite podcast app: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast Enjoying the show? DM your takeaways or questions to @resilientretailclub on Instagram. And if the podcast’s useful, please follow, rate, and review — it helps more product businesses find us. Mentioned in this episode: Retail Roar Have you signed up yet? retailroar.co.uk Retail Roar Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

How Artichoke Built a Profitable Online Shop by Ignoring “Best Practice”If you’ve been told that online retail growth means more ads, more automation, and more noise — this episode will quietly challenge that. With thanks to this episode’s sponsor SumUp. Get 10% off SumUp hardware with the code GamePlan10 at https://sumup.co.uk I’m Catherine Erdly, and this is Resilient Retail Game Plan — practical product business advice with a healthy dose of reality. This isn’t about scaling fast or chasing the latest ecommerce tactic. It’s about building an online business that actually works for the people running it. In this episode, I’m joined by Sarah Simonds, founder of Artichoke and winner of Online Shop of the Year at the Boutique Star Awards. Sarah runs an online fashion business in a way most people would say doesn’t scale. She calls every new online customer. She designs systems to protect customer service, not replace it. And she focuses relentlessly on a demographic the industry largely ignores. After 25 years working with retailers, I see this pattern again and again. The businesses that perform best long term aren’t always the loudest or the most automated. They’re the clearest. In this conversation, we explore: Why slowing down parts of the online experience can increase profitHow calling customers dramatically reduces returns and boosts lifetime valueWhat good systems actually look like in a small retail businessHow Sarah uses AI to support decisions without losing human judgementWhy community, service, and clarity still outperform “best practice” We also talk about the less glamorous side of growth — becoming the bottleneck, building resilience into the team, and creating structure so the business doesn’t rely on one person holding everything together. If you run a product business and want online sales that feel sustainable rather than exhausting, this episode will give you a lot to think about. Chapters00:00 Why “more marketing” isn’t always the answer 03:10 Serving an ignored customer demographic 06:20 Calling every new online customer 10:45 Reducing returns and increasing lifetime value 15:30 From pop-ups to online growth 21:10 Removing the founder bottleneck 27:40 Systems, structure, and ClickUp 33:30 Using AI without losing the human touch 41:50 Community, collaboration, and long-term growth LinksArtichoke: https://www.artichoke-online.co.uk Retail by Design: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/retail-by-design Catherine’s book — Tame Your Tiger: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1912300096 Resilient Retail Club: https://www.resilientretailclub.com Enjoying the show? DM your takeaways or questions to @resilientretailclub on Instagram. And if the podcast’s useful, please follow, rate, and review — it helps more product businesses find us. Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50' Mailchimp resilientretailclub.com/mailchimp

Why Retail Business Growth Starts to Feel Heavy at Six Figures If your retail business is doing well on paper, but somehow feels heavier than it used to, this episode is for you. With thanks to this episode’s sponsor SumUp.com. Get 10% off hardware with the code GamePlan10. I’m Catherine Erdly, and this is the Resilient Retail Game Plan — product business advice with a healthy dose of reality. This isn’t about chasing more sales or adding more tactics. It’s about the moment growth stops feeling exciting and starts feeling risky. When decisions feel heavier. When stock, cash flow and planning won’t switch off in your head. And when everyone assumes you’re doing brilliantly, but you’re quietly feeling stretched. After 25 years in retail, I’ve seen this pattern again and again. Hitting six figures doesn’t magically make things easier. For many founders, it’s the point where relying on instinct stops working and structure becomes essential. In this episode, I talk through why growth often starts to feel heavy at this stage, why it’s not a motivation problem, and what actually helps founders move from reacting to leading again. I also explain how Retail by Design and Stock Doctor work together to bring clarity, calm and confidence back into growing product businesses — without overwhelm or fluff. If you’re tired of winging it, second-guessing decisions, or carrying everything in your head, this episode will help you understand what’s really going on — and what support should look like at this stage of growth. Chapters:00:00 The 'Heaviness' Struggle for Product Retailers 05:42 Stock & Strategy Solutions 06:49 "Retail Growth Through Stock Insight" 10:06 "Retail by Design Program" Links:Website: https://resilientretailclub.com Retail Sales Game Plan: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/retailsales/ Enjoy the episode? DM me your takeaways or questions @resilientretailclub on Instagram. And if you find the show useful, please follow, rate and review — it helps more product businesses find us. Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50' Retail Roar Have you signed up yet? retailroar.co.uk Retail Roar

Meta Ads Have Changed – What Actually Works in 2026 If Meta ads feel like a wild goose chase lately, you’re not alone—and you’re not imagining things. With thanks to this episode's sponsor SumUp (https://sumup.com) Use the code 'GamePlan10' to get 10% off hardware from their online shop! Hi, I'm Catherine Erdly, and this week on The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I’m rolling up my sleeves with Meta Ad strategist CJ Sinclair to dig into why product business advice for retailers is evolving fast. Algorithms have turned upside down. Forget the old playbook; smaller brands now have the nimble edge over the big guns. From creative diversity to new ways to track ROAS and cash flow for retailers, we break down what actually moves the needle in 2026. I’m bringing my 25 years in the trade—plus CJ Sinclair’s day-to-day on the ground—for an episode that’s equal parts practical know-how and myth-busting. Why listen? Squeeze more margin from your Meta ad spend, even with a modest budgetNail creative that cuts through—no high-gloss neededGet independent retailer tips to speed up pivoting, not just scaling a product businessAvoid common ROAS mistakes and measure what matters for profitConnect your email, website and socials for rich marketing strategies that don’t break the bankLearn how to improve cash flow in a small product business while boosting conversion rates Links: Website: https://resilientretailclub.com Retail Sales Game Plan: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/retailsales/ Enjoy the episode? DM me your takeaways or questions @resilientretailclub on Instagram. And if you find the show useful, please follow, rate and review — it helps more product businesses find us. Mentioned in this episode: Retail Roar Have you signed up yet? retailroar.co.uk Retail Roar Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Ever wondered what Christmas really felt like at the sharp end of retail—and what it’s whispering about your 2026 playbook? This episode of "The Resilient Retail Game Plan" is brought to you by SumUp. Get 10% off their hardware by clicking the link and using the coupon code "GamePlan10" I’m Catherine Erdly, and welcome to this festive edition of the Resilient Retail Game Plan—your product business advice, with a side of reality. This isn’t a spreadsheet post-mortem, it’s an honest (sometimes wry) look at how Christmas truly landed for independent retailers. After 25 years in retail, I know December isn’t just numbers, it’s stories, triumphs and warnings we need to catch while they’re fresh—because come January, all that noise gets buried under new-year resolutions and stocktakes. In this episode, I’ll invite you, not just to audit your cash flow for retailers or nit-pick inventory management, but to actually feel your festive season. Think: one sentence gut-checks, inspiration scavenger hunts, and surprisingly useful lessons from your own inbox, shopping habits and the businesses that quietly wowed you. Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

January clearance doesn’t have to feel like a panic move, a brand compromise, or an admission of failure. This episode of "The Resilient Retail Game Plan" is brought to you by SumUp. Get 10% off their hardware by clicking the link and using the coupon code "GamePlan10" Hi, I’m Catherine Erdly. This week on the Resilient Retail Game Plan, I’m walking you through how to run a proper stock clearance. Not a blanket discount. Not a last-minute scramble. But a strategic, cash-releasing reset that helps you start the year lighter, clearer, and more profitable. If the idea of discounting makes you nervous, you’re not alone. I hear it all the time. Fear of damaging your brand. Fear of training customers to wait for sales. Fear of “doing it wrong”. So in this episode, I break down exactly how experienced retailers approach January clearance, and how small product businesses can do the same, without ending up on a discount treadmill. We talk about when to run your sale, what should and shouldn’t go into it, how deep to discount, and what to do if stock still isn’t shifting. This is about releasing trapped cash, reducing mental load, and giving your business the space it needs to move forward. We cover: – Why clearance is a strategic tool, not a failure – What stock belongs in a clearance sale (and what absolutely doesn’t) – How to decide your discount levels without obsessing over margin – Why January is different in the customer’s mind – How to plan and promote your sale so it actually works – What to do if products still don’t sell – How clearance can increase full-price sales – Turning stuck stock into space, cash and clarity If you’re heading into January with a stockroom that feels heavy, overwhelming, or quietly stressful, this episode will help you take control of it properly. Links: Website: https://resilientretailclub.com Retail Sales Game Plan: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/retailsales/ Enjoy the episode? DM me your takeaways or questions @resilientretailclub on Instagram. And if you find the show useful, please follow, rate and review — it helps more product businesses find us. Mentioned in this episode: Retail Roar Have you signed up yet? retailroar.co.uk Retail Roar Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

On paper, Anna Scaife's business Anna Lou of London looked unstoppable — multi–seven-figure turnover, dream stockists like Selfridges and Harvey Nichols, celebrity customers, even a Carnaby Street shop. But behind the scenes, the numbers were quietly telling a very different story. This episode of "The Resilient Retail Game Plan" is brought to you by SumUp. Get 10% off their hardware by clicking the link and using the coupon code "GamePlan10" Hi, I'm Catherine Erdly. This week on the Resilient Retail Game Plan, I’m digging into the real retail profit vs turnover conversation. What happens when the visibility shoots up, the orders explode, but the margins… don’t? Anna shares how she scaled too fast, drowned in stock, tried to please every buyer, and chased the kind of “success” that looks incredible on Instagram — but nearly cost her the entire business. We talk about the ego hits, the financial shocks, the burnout, and the moment she finally rebuilt everything from a place of alignment, clarity and actual profit. If you’ve ever felt the pressure to keep growing, keep adding more, keep saying yes — even when it’s draining your cashflow — this one’s going to land. Hard. We cover: – Why high turnover means nothing without margin – How stockists can destroy cashflow without you noticing – When “busy” becomes a red flag – The emotional cost of maintaining the illusion of success – Rebuilding with a made-to-order model – Why alignment and nervous system regulation matter more than people admit – What sustainable retail growth really looks like This is the story behind the story. And it’s one every product founder needs to hear. Timestamped summary00:00 "Anna's Untold Business Struggles" 04:23 "Pivoting to Sustainable Simplicity" 06:29 "Misalignment and Rediscovering Purpose" 09:45 "Wholesaling: Shuffling Stock Globally" 16:03 "Staying Aligned in Business" 19:32 "Intentional Business Growth Insights" Enjoy the episode? DM me your lightbulb moments or next guest wish list @resilientretailclub on Instagram. Please rate, follow, and review this podcast in your app—it helps more indie founders decide to give us a try! Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50' Retail Roar Have you signed up yet? retailroar.co.uk Retail Roar

The shopfront of retail is about to change—will you be on the right side when the robots come knocking? Hi, I'm Catherine Erdly. This week on the Resilient Retail Game Plan, I’m laying out the four seismic shifts set to hit independent retailers by 2026. Think agentic AI that shops for your customers, TikTok Shop turning the high street digital, trust as your most valuable currency, and the resale boom rewriting what “new” means. With 25 years of retail trenches behind me, I’m sharing not just the what, but the how—so you can cut through the noise, strengthen cash flow for retailers, and make sure your product business survives (and thrives) in the new landscape. Grab your notebook and come behind the counter—these are the independent retailer tips that matter. Make sure you grab my freebie at http://resilientretailclub.com/freebie Enjoy the episode? DM me your lightbulb moments or next guest wish list @resilientretailclub on Instagram. Please rate, follow, and review this podcast in your app—it helps more indie founders decide to give us a try! 00:00 "Top Retail Trends for 2026" 06:05 "Future of Shopping: AI & Shoptainment" 10:07 "Shoppable Live Streams on TikTok" 14:16 TikTok Shop: Creator-Brand Strategies 16:33 "AI Pets and Trust Issues" 18:42 Building Trust for Small Businesses 22:44 "Building Trust Through TikTok" Mentioned in this episode: Retail Roar Have you signed up yet? retailroar.co.uk Retail Roar Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Ever feel like your money’s gone missing—but you know you’ve already spent it? In this episode, I’m diving into one of the most common and costly problems I see in product-based businesses: trapped stock. That unsold inventory piling up in your stockroom, storeroom, or studio? It’s not just taking up space—it’s tying up thousands of pounds you could be using to pay yourself, invest in your bestsellers, or boost your marketing. I share a story that’s stuck with me for years: a shop owner who discovered over £7,000 worth of untouched stock hidden away in plastic totes. We’ll unpack why this happens (spoiler: buying on gut, not data), how to spot the mental and emotional weight of dead stock, and why clearing it isn’t failure—it’s smart, strategic retailing. If you want to start freeing up cash in your business right now, this episode is your clean slate moment. Mentioned in this episode: Retail Roar Have you signed up yet? retailroar.co.uk Retail Roar Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Christmas is close enough to smell the cinnamon, but I know for many indie retailers this is also the “please don’t let me be stuck with this stock in January” moment. In this episode, I’m talking you through the three big troublemakers you need to get on top of right now: slow sellers, overstocks, and the infamous “brown bananas” — those products that basically lose all their value the second Christmas week ends. I’ll show you how to read your Shopify reports properly, how to spot the items that won’t budge in January no matter how hopeful you are, and why targeted discounts nearly always beat the big “panic discount” button. If you want to protect your cash flow, avoid a messy January, and make smarter decisions while the footfall is still high, this one will help. Perfect for any product business juggling stock levels, nerves, and the final push of the Golden Weeks. Mentioned in this episode: Retail Roar Have you signed up yet? retailroar.co.uk Retail Roar Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Christmas 2025 is shaping up to be a season of cautious confidence — and coziness. Hi, I'm Catherine Erdly. In this episode of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I'm sharing insights from my Forbes.com research, drawing on data from Shopify, Etsy, Klaviyo, LoyaltyLion and more to reveal what shoppers are really planning this festive season. Discover why UK consumers are expected to spend over £91 billion, how AI is reshaping holiday shopping, and why “comfort, connection and coziness” are the emotional triggers driving this year’s trends. I'll also break down what all this means for independent retailers — from loyalty strategies to smarter stock planning — so you can make this Christmas your most profitable yet. Make sure you grab my freebie at http://resilientretailclub.com/freebie Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50' Retail Roar Have you signed up yet? retailroar.co.uk Retail Roar

Ever wish a retail expert would walk into your stockroom, pull up your numbers, and just tell you exactly what to do? Hi, I'm Catherine Erdly. This week on the Resilient Retail Game Plan, I’m tearing down the myths and fears behind a stock audit and showing why getting your inventory under control is the most powerful move a product-based business owner can make. After 25 years in retail, I’ve seen it all: wasted cash in stagnant shelves, business owners drowning in data but starving for answers. So I created Stock Doctor — a done-for-you service that cuts through overwhelm with actionable clarity. Click play to hear real-world product business advice, cash flow for retailers, and inventory management tips that make strategy feel personal. If you want independent retailer tips with zero judgement, this audit episode is your toolkit. Why Listen Discover how to squeeze more margin from your current stockholdingSee why smart inventory management means better cash flow—and a healthier bank balanceGet simple, practical techniques to clear excess stock without damaging your brandLearn demand forecasting tricks specifically for small product businessesFind out how to price products for wholesale, set minimum order quantities, and scale a product business confidentlyHear success stories from real retailers who’ve used Stock Doctor to boost sales, decrease surplus, and claim more owner pay DM your biggest takeaway or guest suggestions to @resilientretailclub on Instagram. Rate/follow the Resilient Retail Club Podcast in your favourite app to stay ahead. Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50' Retail Roar Have you signed up yet? retailroar.co.uk Retail Roar

If you’re tired of winging it with your retail sales, this episode of The Resilient Retail Game Plan is your turning point. I'm Catherine Erdly, and in this episode I'm revealing how mapping out your sales year gives you more creativity, not less. Plus, we're all about calmer launches, better cash flow, and loyal customers. Learn how to replace last-minute panic with a confident plan that fits your life, not the other way around. Timestamped overview00:00 Planning Enhances Creativity 03:40 Avoid Reactive Selling Strategies 07:09 Predictive Marketing Example 10:57 Plan Themes, Fill Gaps 15:07 "Planning Ahead for Success" 18:14 Holiday Planning for Retail Success Website: https://www.resilientretailclub.com Invite: https://resilientretailclub.com/retailsales Podcast: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast Tell me what landed for you—DM @resilientretailclub on Instagram with your biggest takeaway or guest wish list. Tap follow (and rate and review me while you're there) in your favourite app to keep updated on new episodes. Mentioned in this episode: Retail Roar Have you signed up yet? retailroar.co.uk Retail Roar Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Resilient Retail Club member Petrina Reddy from "Saints at Sea" thought she was doing everything right — until the numbers told a different story. In this episode, she joins me, Catherine Erdly, to share the moment she realised her retail business wasn’t actually working the way she thought it was. We talk honestly about the emotional side of facing your figures, the hard decisions that come next, and how Petrina rebuilt her business with clarity and confidence. If you’ve ever avoided looking too closely at your sales or stock levels, this is the wake-up call you didn’t know you needed. Timestamped summary00:00 "Balancing Creativity and Growth" 03:18 Multitasking Beyond Comfort Zones 06:40 "Business Growth Light Bulb Moments" 10:24 Seasonal Travel and Road Trips 15:22 "Promoting Portugal's Culture Creatively" 18:18 "Saints at Sea Spotlight" Tell me what landed for you—DM @resilientretailclub on Instagram with your biggest takeaway or guest wish list. Tap follow (and rate and review me while you're there) in your favourite app to keep updated on new episodes. Website: https://www.resilientretailclub.com Invite: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/waitlist Podcast: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50' Retail Roar Have you signed up yet? retailroar.co.uk Retail Roar

Sound familiar? Ever felt your sales rhythm drop from celebration to silence overnight? Welcome to the Resilient Retail Game Plan podcast, where I, Catherine Erdly, cut through the feast-or-famine fog so many independent retailers face. In this episode, I crack open the real reasons your product business swings from record months to radio silence and arm you with retail-savvy strategies that’ve worked for multi-billion pound chains—plus the lean, scrappy shops braving the UK high street right now. Why listen? Ditch the rollercoaster: Learn why you’re stuck in boom-bust and how to end itBuild calm, repeatable sales systems—no chasing your own tail at payday or peak seasonSqueeze more margin by syncing launches with simple, effective marketingCreate a retail sales plan that powers up even on slow, confidence-testing daysSpot the “cycle of doom” before it derails your cash flow for retailersWalk away with independent retailer tips you can action before opening hours Tell me what landed for you—DM @resilientretailclub on Instagram with your biggest takeaway or guest wish list. Tap follow (and rate and review me while you're there) in your favourite app to keep updated on new episodes. Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50' Retail Roar Have you signed up yet? retailroar.co.uk Retail Roar

Ever wondered why your sales are stuck in first gear – and what you can actually do to shift them? I'm Catherine Erdly and this episode of the Resilient Retail Game Plan drills into three mistakes I see again and again with small product businesses. If you’re posting on Instagram, trying in-person markets, running the odd promotion yet still seeing stubbornly flat sales month after month, you’re not alone. I draw on 25 years in retail, from big business stockrooms to indie brands, to break down what’s really holding back your growth – and what needs to change if you want momentum, not just busy work. Why listen? Diagnose the hidden traps behind sales plateaus – and get clarity on what to fix firstCraft a retail planning mindset that supports creative not cookie-cutter growthPinpoint how to build a product strategy rooted in data (not guesswork or feast/famine launches)Sift fact from feeling so your decisions support cash flow for retailersWalk away with indie retailer tips to create your own resilient retail game plan Let’s turn product business advice into action: DM me your thoughts or episode ideas on Instagram @resilientretailclub. If you’re finding the retail podcast UK series useful, hit follow and leave a rating – it’s the best way to help more makers and shop owners discover the Resilient Retail Club podcast. Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50' Retail Roar Have you signed up yet? retailroar.co.uk Retail Roar

Black Friday: Profit or Pitfall? The Retail Game Plan for Indie Brands Black Friday isn’t designed for indies, so why do so many small retail business owners still feel pressure to play? In this episode of the Resilient Retail Game Plan, I pull you behind the screens and into the real numbers; sharing where the opportunities actually lie for UK product businesses come November, what the headlines miss, and how you can plan Black Friday on your own terms. No boss babe myths. No one-size-fits-all answers. Just straight-talking product business advice from 25 years in the retail trenches. I’ll help you squeeze more margin, build customer loyalty, and avoid the stress spiral—whatever you decide about Black Friday. Why listen? Flip mainstream Black Friday thinking and capture the month’s biggest wins—for your bottom line and your valuesSqueeze more profit from your Q4, not just turnoverTame your promotions calendar, reduce customer “discount fatigue”Reward loyal customers in a way that fits your brandUse cash flow for retailers and inventory management podcast tactics to plan stock (not just hope for the best)Hear exactly how successful indie retailers choose, pace, and communicate their Black Friday offers—without losing themselves in the noise DM me @resilientretailclub on Instagram with your Black Friday takeaways or guest ideas for the podcast. If this episode clears the fog, rate and follow the show in your favourite retail podcast UK app. Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50' Retail Roar Have you signed up yet? retailroar.co.uk Retail Roar

Loyalty in retail isn’t just about discounts anymore — it’s about creating experiences customers remember. In this episode, Catherine Erdly talks with Charlie Casey, CEO of LoyaltyLion, about what loyalty means in 2025. You’ll learn: Why discounts alone don’t drive loyalty How experiences like VIP drops & events keep customers coming back Real examples from brands using loyalty to boost sales Why loyal customers spend 4× more in tough economies How to balance short-term sales with long-term trust Companies mentioned in this episode: Loyalty LionNever Fully DressedRepresent ClothingThe Inkey ListJohn's Crazy Socks Links referenced in this episode: loyaltylion.comresilientretailclub.com Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50' Retail Roar Have you signed up yet? retailroar.co.uk Retail Roar

Teetering bank balance, shelves groaning with unsold stock, and a to-do list that rustles louder than tissue wrap? Lean in—this festive crunch is survival mode for indie retailers. Christmas is coming, and with it, that age-old retail cash flow pinch. I’m Catherine Erdly—host of the Resilient Retail Game Plan and twenty-five years deep in this glorious, gritty industry. In this episode, I break down why September and October send even the most seasoned retailers’ stomachs flipping and how you can manage cash flow during seasonal peaks without losing sleep or profit. From real talk about why “big guys” don’t have it any easier to practical advice for negotiating terms, avoiding stock pile-ups, and clearing out that dreaded dead stock (think: cash stuck in hibernation), this conversation is your no-nonsense lifeline. [cash-register-ding] Why listen? Get honest, human product business advice for weathering the Christmas crunchSqueeze more margin from your range (and finally pay yourself as a product-based business owner)Learn how to use a retail cash flow template (grab the free download)Discover negotiation strategies for small retailers and indie retailer tips only a retail podcast UK like ours digs intoFind out how to clear excess stock without damaging your brand—or losing your mind Prefer to watch? https://youtu.be/Xox17sgis_Q Have takeaways, sticky situations or guest ideas? DM @resilientretailclub on Instagram—I read every message. Don’t miss future episodes of the Resilient Retail Club podcast: rate and follow in your favourite app. For more scaling a product business insight, catch my latest Forbes feature on funding options for indie retailers UK. Mentioned in this episode: Retail Roar Have you signed up yet? retailroar.co.uk Retail Roar Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Are you running your retail business – or is it running you into the ground? I’m Catherine Erdly, and on this episode of the Resilient Retail Game Plan, I peel back the glossy sales charts to reveal what really comes after that six-figure milestone. I’ve seen it firsthand: when independent product business owners hit £100K or more, the chaos, decision fatigue and burnout can hit even harder – unless you’re ready to swap the founder hustle for actual strategy. Through candid stories and my Focus Framework, I’ll show you how growing past six figures doesn’t have to mean drowning under to-do lists or turning your business into a bottleneck. There’s a smarter, healthier way to scale your retail brand. Why listen? Pinpoint why scaling a product business is nothing like starting oneSpot the four founder traps (burnout, overwhelm, plateau… and more)Shift from gut-feel chaos to data-led, confident growth [quiet stockroom rustle]Tame your stock monster with inventory management tips from a 25-year retail expert **Share your “aha” moments — DM me @resilientretailclub on Instagram. If this episode gives you a retail reality check, rate and follow the Resilient Retail Club Podcast in your favourite app. Mentioned in this episode: Retail Roar Have you signed up yet? retailroar.co.uk Retail Roar Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Will your Q4 plan make or break your Christmas sales? I’m Catherine Erdly, drawing on 25 years in retail trenches, and this episode of the Resilient Retail Game Plan podcast is your hands-on guide to prepping a joined-up Q4 marketing plan. Featuring insights from PR guru Rosie Davis Smith, email strategist Katie Farrell, ad creative powerhouse Narada McCoy, and social storytelling pro Emily Hansen. We cut past the shiny distractions to give you product business advice you can bank on, including practical inventory management tips, cash flow strategies for indie retailers, and bite-size marketing moves that punch above their weight. Whether you’re chasing a Black Friday bounce or looking to scale your product business without burning out, you’ll get a real-world playbook—no jargon, no hype. Why listen? Build a Q4 campaign that links PR, email, paid ads, and social to tell a story customers rememberLand genuine press coverage (gift guides included) even if PR feels alienCraft emails that sell when you’re too busy to write another draft in DecemberSqueeze more margin out of seasonal ads—and shift your budget like a proBatch social content in one afternoon so you’ve always got stockroom-fresh posts, even in peak chaosSpot (and dodge) the biggest cash flow traps retailers fall into at peak Let’s connect: DM me @resilientretailclub on Instagram with your favourite takeaway or guest suggestion for a future podcast episode. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the Resilient Retail Club podcast in your favourite retail podcast UK app. And if you want fresh industry insight, check out my Forbes articles on retail trends - https://www.forbes.com/sites/catherineerdly/ Mentioned in this episode: Retail Roar Have you signed up yet? retailroar.co.uk Retail Roar Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Will your Christmas cash flow jingle or stall? Hi! Catherine Erdly here, host of the Resilient Retail Game Plan. It’s that time of year when indie retailers either outsmart January’s excess stock blues or get a cash flow headache that lingers long past the mince pies. In this episode of the resilient retail club podcast, I’m rolling up my sleeves with a no-fluff checklist for peak season stock planning, tested across 25 years and countless Q4s. Forget gut feeling; I’ll help you tune into hard data, smart forecasting, and those golden “hero products” that turn browsers into loyal gift buyers—no corporate jargon, just straight-talking product business advice for real shop floors. Timestamped summary00:00 "Prepare Adequately for Christmas Sales" 03:20 "Stock Planning: Gut Feel vs. Data" 09:14 "Focus on HERO Products" 10:12 Optimise Holiday Product Strategy 15:21 Conservative Christmas Sales Planning 16:32 "Planning for Increased Sales Capacity" 19:34 Stock Forecasting Strategy Tips Let’s connect: DM me @resilientretailclub on Instagram with your favourite takeaway or guest suggestion for a future podcast episode. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the Resilient Retail Club podcast in your favourite retail podcast UK app. And if you want fresh industry insight, check out my Forbes articles on retail trends - https://www.forbes.com/sites/catherineerdly/ Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50' Retail Roar Have you signed up yet? retailroar.co.uk Retail Roar

Four levers, infinite impact: Which one’s your sales superpower? Ever feel like you’re pouring all your energy into driving new traffic but your sales aren’t leaping as much as you hoped? You’re not alone. In this episode of the Resilient Retail Game Plan, I pull back the curtain on the actual four ways to grow a product business—ways that go way beyond just chasing new customers. With 25 years in the retail trenches (and plenty of stockroom tales to prove it), I’ll walk you through the no-fluff reality of sales growth: what really works, what puts profit first, and why the most valuable sale in your universe might be the one you never even thought about. Let’s connect: DM me @resilientretailclub on Instagram with your favourite takeaway or guest suggestion for a future Catherine Erdly podcast episode. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the Resilient Retail Club podcast in your favourite retail podcast UK app - and if you want fresh industry insight, check out my Forbes article on retail trends. Timestamped summary 00:00 "Understanding Customer Journey in Sales" 04:29 Audience Growth Strategies Overview 09:56 "Boosting Sales via Conversion Optimization" 11:17 Boosting E-commerce Conversion and Sales 16:36 Boosting Sales Through Transaction Value 18:46 Nurturing Your VIP Customers 21:50 Free Sales Growth Resource Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50' Retail Roar Have you signed up yet? retailroar.co.uk Retail Roar

Could missing a simple £170 expense cost you your entire business overnight? This week on The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I sit down with the sharp, straight-talking Lucy Wheeler of Lucy Legal to tackle the legal booby traps hiding in plain sight for indie retailers. Hi, I'm Catherine Erdly and I’ve seen it too many times: stock room full, launch morning on the horizon… only for a cease-and-desist email to land and unravel months of work. From that infamous £170 mistake to new rules around AI, GPSR, refund policies and more, we cover the real-life slip-ups that keep shop owners awake at 2am—and exactly how to sidestep them. Why listen? • Hear the heartbreak of a last-minute legal disaster (and the £170 fix you can make today) • Demystify refund policies, legal basics, and essential legal templates for product businesses • Ground your cash flow for retailers and prevent “sunk cost” pain with practical product business advice • Learn how to future-proof with Lucy’s toolkit tips for AI and upcoming safety regulations (GPSR, GDPR, and more) • Get independent retailer tips to scale confidently—from your first Etsy sale to six-figure growth Timestamped summary00:00 Clarify Refund and Return Policy 05:13 Refund Policy Considerations 06:43 Customer-Centric Legal Support 13:01 AI Legal Toolkit Overview 14:44 Negotiating Supplier Contract Terms 17:59 Freelancers vs. Employees: Business Decisions 21:12 New Product Safety Compliance Challenges 25:40 Trademark and Targeted Facebook Ads 26:49 Lucy Legal: Business Protection Tools Keep the conversation going—DM me your questions or takeaways @resilientretailclub on Instagram. If you found this episode helpful, leave a quick rating or follow in your favourite app; it helps other indie retailers discover the podcast. For bonus product business trends, check out my latest Forbes article on retail cash flow and funding options for indie retailers UK. And here's this episode's freebie: https://resilientretailclub.com/sales Mentioned in this episode: Retail Roar Have you signed up yet? retailroar.co.uk Retail Roar Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Ever feel like your till’s ringing, but your bank balance is whispering “not this month”? I’m Catherine Erdly, and this episode of the Resilient Retail Game Plan gets painfully real about the truth behind cash flow for retailers. If you’ve ever panicked at 3am, wondering how to pay that looming supplier invoice, you’re not alone. I break down my “SHOPS” framework; Sales, Having It Mapped Out, Overheads, Profit, Stock. Turning the messy, anxiety-inducing side of product business finance into a clear action plan. This is practical product business advice forged from 25 years on the retail shop floor and in boardrooms. If you want genuine independent retailer tips from a UK retail podcast, you’re in the right place. Let’s keep talking: DM me on Instagram @resilientretailclub—share your next cash-flow move, or nominate a guest for the Resilient Retail Club Podcast. Drop a follow or review in your favourite retail podcast app. Want more shop owner know-how? Check out my latest Forbes article on funding options for indie retailers UK (link in show notes). [fade out as a spreadsheet cell totals up, quietly but with that perfect clack] Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50' Retail Roar Have you signed up yet? retailroar.co.uk Retail Roar

When your best-selling supplier pulls the rug out, what’s your next move? I’m Catherine Erdly and this week’s Resilient Retail Game Plan episode dives straight into the Jellycat drama that’s rocking UK indie retail. Plush toys flying off the shelves one day, a curt rejection letter from your biggest brand partner the next. So how did Jellycat, the darling of TikTok and Instagram, go from indie retailers’ secret weapon to their biggest heartache? You’ll hear first-hand from shop owners blindsided by sudden cuts, dig into what this shock move reveals about scaling a product business, and learn hard-won lessons on loyalty, stock planning, and brand control. Plus my own take after 25 years in retail trenches. Why listen? Discover how Jellycat’s decision upended cash flow for retailers—and what resilient retail really looks like in a stormHear real talk on demand forecasting, inventory management, and pricing products for wholesale when the rules change overnightUnpack honest product business advice from guests who’ve been both championed and ghosted by hot brandsSqueeze out independent retailer tips for strengthening supplier relationships—and never relying on one source againReflect on indie shop survival and the community power that outlasts any viral craze DM @resilientretailclub on Instagram with your biggest takeaway or who you’d love to hear next. If this episode hit home, rate and follow the Resilient Retail Club Podcast on your favourite app. Want even more? Read my latest Forbes article for funding options and fresh retail trend insights. Not every plush is as soft as it looks. So let’s get into the real story. Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50' Mailchimp resilientretailclub.com/mailchimp

Welcome to another episode of the Resilient Retail Game Plan podcast, hosted by me, retail expert Catherine Erdly. In this episode, I'm getting right to the heart of one of the biggest challenges for independent product business owners: pricing your products with confidence. Whether you’re creating your own products or reselling others’, pricing often brings up tricky questions, self-doubt, and even a touch of money mindset drama. I'll be explaining why undercharging is so common and why your customer’s wallet isn’t your business. I'll also walk you through the concept of the value triangle—covering price, quality, and desirability—to help you feel empowered to set prices that are sustainable for your business and resonate with your customers. If you want to grow a profitable retail business, feel more confident about your pricing decisions, and learn how to explain your value in a way that truly connects, you’re in exactly the right place. Click play and let's get started. Tell me what hit home:Once you've listened, DM @resilientretailclub on Instagram and tell me what resonated most with you. Please rate, follow, and share the Resilient Retail Club podcast in your app. It all helps us grow the show! Useful links:My freebie: http://www.resilientretailclub.com/freebie The Stock Doctor: https://resilientretailclub.com/stockdoctor My website: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast My Forbes page: https://www.forbes.com/sites/catherineerdly/ Timestamped summary00:00 "Pricing Challenges for Small Businesses" 06:06 The Risks of Underpricing Products 07:20 Retail Pricing Indicator for Undervaluation 10:39 "Wholesale Pricing Strategy Essentials" 15:55 "Understanding Your Ideal Customer" 17:55 Reducing Costs Without Compromise 22:33 "Impactful Story Elevates Bag's Value" 25:38 Maximizing Product Pricing Strategy This title captures the dual focus of the text: encouraging bravery in trying new strategies and encouraging listeners to engage with the podcast by following, subscribing, and reviewing. Mentioned in this episode: Mailchimp resilientretailclub.com/mailchimp Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Why Strong Profit Margins Matter More Than Sales in Your Product BusinessLet’s be honest. Selling more doesn’t always mean you’re making more. In this episode of the Resilient Retail Game Plan podcast I share why strong profit margins are the foundation of a sustainable product business. I’ll walk you through how to calculate your real margins how to spot the most common mistakes including ones I’ve seen big retailers make and what you can do to improve your pricing without sacrificing sales. In this episode I cover: The difference between 'in' margin and 'out' marginHow discounting impacts your bottom lineHow often I recommend reviewing your pricesWhy your top sellers might be hurting your profitsMy practical tips for protecting margin and growing sustainably If you’ve ever looked at your sales numbers and thought "it still feels like I’m not earning enough" this is the episode for you. Tell me what hit home:DM @resilientretailclub on Instagram and tell me what resonated most with you. Please rate, follow, and share the Resilient Retail Club podcast in your app. It all helps us grow the show! Useful links:My freebie: http://www.resilientretailclub.com/freebie My website: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast My Forbes page: https://www.forbes.com/sites/catherineerdly/ Timestamped summary:00:00 Understanding Profit Margins 03:46 Why Profit Margins Are Key to Business Success 09:25 Calculate Costs for Profit Clarity 12:06 Minimise Discounts, Maximise Margins 15:31 Ideal Profit Margin Guidelines 17:47 Optimise Profits: Check Best Sellers 21:18 Monthly Margin Management Insights Mentioned in this episode: Mailchimp resilientretailclub.com/mailchimp Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Hear that stockroom hum? Let's talk about itEver felt like you’re building your indie product business with one hand on the till and the other on the panic button? This week on the Resilient Retail Game Plan, I’m cracking open five years of the Resilient Retail Game Plan podcast vault to bring you the biggest, most valuable independent retailer tips I’ve learned (and lived through) across 25 years in retail. Whether you’re tripping over boxes in your spare room or juggling inventory management on Shopify, I’m sharing the core product business advice that actually shifts the dial; from cash flow for retailers to pricing products for wholesale, and right through to scaling a product business without losing your mind (or your margins). You’ll hear some brass-tacks truths (yes, stock is more than 'buy and sell'), some guest wisdom, and honestly, a fair few mistakes I’d rather you skipped. Why listen? • Squeeze more profit and ditch “busy fool” turnover, get clear on bottom-line sanity • Tame your 'stock monster' with strategies for better inventory management when the money seems to vanish • Surf the trends, don’t drown in them and learn how to spot what matters and what’s just noise • Market with heart and stop forcing yourself into social platforms that make you miserable • Armour up your mindset and get the resilience you need to ride out the rollercoaster Tell me what hit home: DM @resilientretailclub on Instagram with your favourite insight or guest wish list. Please rate, follow, and share the Resilient Retail Club podcast in your app and for extra sparkle, dive into my Forbes retail trends article (link below). Here’s to another five years of the realest retail podcast UK founders can trust. Useful links:My freebie: http://www.resilientretailclub.com/freebie My website: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast My Forbes page: https://www.forbes.com/sites/catherineerdly/ Timestamped summary:00:00 Understanding Product Business Profitability 03:22 Profitability and Pricing Focus 07:27 "Retail Industry Trends Insight" 12:57 Consumer Stories Drive Business Strategy 14:00 Focus on Your Circle of Control 19:06 Mindset's Impact on Business Success 24:03 Building Profitable, Sustainable Businesses 26:50 "Podcast Feedback and Future Ideas" Companies mentioned in this episode:WoolworthsToys R UsForbesTikTokInstagramPinterestShopifySainsbury'sNextChildren in NeedEleanor BomaAstrid and MewAir and GraceLucy and Yak Mentioned in this episode: Mailchimp resilientretailclub.com/mailchimp Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

In this episode of the Resilient Retail Game Plan, I’m joined by Shopify web design expert Pip Hounslow for a deep dive into website conversion rates. We chat about what’s considered “normal”, why your conversion rate might be lower than you’d expect, and the small tweaks that can make a big difference to your sales. Pip also shares tips on improving your add-to-basket button, ensuring your website works beautifully on mobile, and why your founder story could be the key to connecting with customers. Whether you’re on Shopify or another platform, you’ll come away with practical ideas to help your product-based business convert more visitors into buyers. Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50' Mailchimp resilientretailclub.com/mailchimp

It’s no secret I’m a big fan of Bird & Blend, so chatting with co-founder Mike Turner at Retail ROAR was a real treat. From a single market stall to 25+ shops across the UK, Mike and his co-founder Krisi have built something truly unique. In this episode—a sneak peek from our Retail ROAR 2025 summit—Mike shares how Bird & Blend grew from iced tea samples and hand-packed blends into a beloved national brand, all while staying people-focused and rooted in community. We cover: What “experiential retail” actually looks like (and what it doesn’t)How thinking omnichannel from day one set them up for growthThe joy of unexpected blends (think rhubarb and custard tea!)Using crowdfunding, customer feedback, and team ideas to scaleWhy real loyalty comes from inclusion—not discounts Whether you’re planning your first shop, growing your brand, or simply after a dose of retail inspiration—this one’s worth a listen. 🎟️ Want more content like this? Get on the waitlist for Retail ROAR 2026! Mentioned in this episode: Mailchimp resilientretailclub.com/mailchimp Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

What if your next sale is hiding in your Instagram comments? This week on the podcast, I’m diving into social listening and social care with the brilliant Brooke Sellas, founder of B Squared Media and host of the Social Media CX Podcast. We get into the real reason you need to respond to those “Do you ship to ___?” questions—and how your answers could be the tipping point for someone making a purchase. Brooke shares practical, no-cost ways small business owners can start using social media conversations to reduce churn, support sales, and improve customer experience (without hiring a whole new team). If you’re feeling overwhelmed by all things social, this episode is packed with human-first strategies you can actually use. 🔗 Mentioned in This Episode: B Squared Media Brooke’s new LinkedIn Learning course Let me know what stood out to you from this episode over on Instagram @resilientretailclub! Don’t forget to rate, review, and subscribe—and tag me when you’re listening! Timestamps: [00:00:00] What your customers say that you might be overlooking [00:03:32] What social listening actually means [00:05:46] Gen Z and millennials shop differently—here’s how [00:07:56] People expect replies outside of 9-5. Now what? [00:10:32] The questions buyers are asking that you might be overlooking [00:11:46] Social listening that drives sales [00:13:41] What to do with negative feedback [00:17:20] A real-world example of social listening driving sales [00:20:19] Your competitors reviews are full of clues [00:22:23] The free focus group you’re probably not using [00:24:00] One simple way to start social listening Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

If managing your stock feels like a total guessing game, you’re not alone. And it’s not your fault. In this episode, I’m breaking down why so many product business owners feel completely overwhelmed by stock decisions and what you can start doing about it. We’re talking about: Why “gut instinct” isn’t a stock strategyThe silent cost of overbuying (or underbuying) stockHow to break out of the cash flow hamster wheel And if this hits home for you, I’ve got something that will help… 🎉 Join me for a free talk on Monday, 16th June at 10:00 AM. It’s called Stop Letting Stock Eat Your Profit. In this free session, I’ll show you three quick fixes that can immediately help you feel more in control of your stock. 👉 https://futureretail.lpages.co/stop-stock-eating-profit/ Resources Book: Tame Your Tiger Webinar: Stop Letting Stock Eat Your Profit Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Get a look at how one founder built a product business with staying power. This episode is a sneak peek into Retail ROAR, my free annual virtual summit for product business owners.   I’m joined by Claire Burrows, founder of Air & Grace. She shares how she built a values-led footwear brand known for comfort, quality, and loyal customers. We talk about manufacturing setbacks, staying close to your customer, and why refusing to compromise on quality can fuel your long-term growth. If you’d like early access to the next Retail ROAR, you can sign up here to be the first to know when it opens. [02:18] The “wardrobe of regret” moment that sparked her mission [06:38] How Claire overcame early manufacturing setbacks [08:14] Why face-to-face customer feedback shaped her direction [10:37] How one customer request turned into half the product line [14:06] Claire's most memorable pinch-me moments in business [14:51] How she secured early investment in the business  [17:09] The financial realities of managing your cash flow [18:39] Why strong supplier relationships matter Resources: Get Early Access to ROAR 2026 Air & Grace Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Storytelling gets talked about a lot, but what does it actually look like day to day? With AI-generated content flooding our feeds, original stories are more powerful than ever. Today, Char Dixon is here to tell us why. We talk about how to make your content feel more like a conversation, why your behind-the-scenes moments are more valuable than you think, and how to stop overthinking your posts and start sharing what’s already happening in your business. If you’ve been second-guessing your content or feeling stuck on what to say, this advice might just help you get out of your own way. Char spent two decades in marketing for major retailers before shifting her focus to small businesses. Now she helps founders find their voice and share their stories in a way that feels natural, not forced. -------- Grab your essential FREE guide - How to clear excess stock without damaging your brand. Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

What do you do when your business looks like a success, but doesn’t feel like one?   Katie Glickman started Bibbilyboo after struggling to find a bib that worked for her own child. What began with a sewing machine at the kitchen table grew into an award-winning business, with over 64,000 bibs sold and stockists across the UK, including the country’s largest baby store. But success doesn’t always feel the way we expect it to. After years of sewing, scaling, and saying yes to every opportunity, Katie hit a point where the business felt more draining than energising. She was navigating a factory partnership, juggling cash flow, and questioning what came next. That’s when she joined Retail By Design. She shares what happens when your shop reaches a transition point—and how she reconnected with her purpose and started enjoying her business again. [01:35] The everyday parenting struggle that sparked a business idea [07:48] The biggest pinch-me moments in business [10:43] Why joining Retail By Design felt like the right next step [14:32] What it looks like to grow and evolve in your business [17:48] How Katie stopped second-guessing her stock decisions [19:57] How she reconnected with the parts of the business that bring her joy Resources: Bibbilyboo Retail By Design  Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

As a product business owner, taking time off can feel like a luxury you simply can’t afford. There’s always something that needs your attention—customers, orders, stock, marketing. The idea of stepping away can feel more stressful than restful.   In this special 250th episode, I’m sharing a rare behind-the-scenes look at my own business. Last month, I took three separate trips, and it made me reflect on what success really means. Yes, turnover matters. But so does the ability to take a proper break without everything falling apart.   Although I run a service-based business, I’ve worked with hundreds of indie retailers over the years, and I realize how difficult it is to carve out that space.   If stepping back feels impossible, I want you to know it doesn’t have to be. And if you’d like help creating a business that truly works for you, Retail By Design might be just what you need. There are still a few places left!   [00:00] Why taking time off can feel impossible for product business owners [01:49] What three trips in one month taught me about success and balance [03:27] The real cost of not taking proper breaks from your business [11:44] How to plan ahead so you can step away with confidence [17:05] How support and clear priorities make time off possible   ------------------------------------------------------------------- Stop winging it. Take your business to the next level of growth. Retail by Design is a high-performance, six-month programme, combining award-winning business mentoring with the magic of masterminding. It’s built for ambitious, established small business owners turning over £100K+ who are ready to step out of survival mode and grow with clarity, structure and calm confidence. Learn More at https://www.resilientretailclub.com/retail-business-mentoring/ Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Today, I’m joined by luxury knitwear designer Genevieve Sweeney, who’s been part of both our Retail By Design mastermind and the Stock Doctors programme. In this conversation, she shares how those programmes helped her move a long-held idea into action, which was bringing part of her production in-house after nearly a decade in business. It’s a shift that’s given her more control over stock, space to test new products, and the ability to respond to demand more quickly. We also talk about planning around seasonal sales, building customer loyalty, and managing creative work alongside the day-to-day demands of running a business.    [02:55] What kept Genevieve rooted in British manufacturing [05:56] Why in-house production changed how Genevieve plans and sells [07:39] The hardest parts of running her business over the last decade [09:13] What happens when your customer base grows with you [15:07] Why Genevieve joined the mastermind after Goldman Sachs [17:16] What she learned from Retail By Design and Stock Doctors   Resources: Genevieve Sweeney Knitwear  Retail by Design Stock Doctor   Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Grab your essential FREE guide - How to clear excess stock without damaging your brand. -----   What do you do when your business grows, but your pay doesn’t? It’s a common issue for product business owners. Today, we’re talking about how to pay yourself sustainably.   Paying yourself from your product business isn’t always straightforward. In this episode, I’ll explain why it’s more complicated than it seems and walk you through some common mistakes and how to avoid them.   We’ll also address myths, like the idea that reaching six figures means you can automatically pay yourself more. It’s not always that simple. You might see your sales grow but still struggle with cash flow.   By the end of this episode, you’ll understand why cash flow can feel chaotic and what you can do to get it back on track. If you’re ready to start paying yourself properly, this episode is for you!   What's Inside? [02:32] Why product businesses need different strategies [06:10] Money myths and the metrics that matter [08:02] The importance of cash flow forecasting [15:02] What business owners need to pay themselves [18:46] How to start letting go of your financial fears [22:56] Get 1:1 support to sort out your retail finances Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Retail By Design  Profit First by Mike Michalowicz   Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Join my Free Webinar - Scale To 7 Figures Without The Overwhelm on Wednesday April 30, 2025, at 10am UK time. Discover proven strategies that help you grow your business sustainably and profitably. ------- In this episode, I’m breaking down a hard truth for product-based business owners: What got you here, won’t get you there. If you're a retailer stuck at six figures—or feel like your business is running you instead of the other way around—this one's for you. I dive into the essential mindset and structural shifts that independent retailers need to make to grow their business sustainably, without sacrificing their sanity or freedom. Plus, I invite you to my free live webinar on how to scale your product business to seven figures without burnout. 🎧 Tune in for insights and actionable steps!   What's Inside: 00:00 The hard truth about growth 01:40 Why sales growth alone won’t solve everything 02:54 The toughest part of product-based business growth 06:12 How the skills that got you here can hold you back 07:08 The “new level, new devil” concept in retail 11:35 Burnout signals and the trap of doing it all 12:41 Defining your “there”—what success really looks like 16:30 Structure, support, and sanity: The real game-changers 18:47 Why leadership mindset matters more at scale 22:41 Join my free webinar: Scale to 7 Figures Without The OverwhelmMentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Grab your essential FREE guide - How to clear excess stock without damaging your brand. ----- Thinking about using TikTok for your retail business, but unsure where to start—or if it's worth your time? In this week's episode, I talk to Penny Walker, TikTok strategist and founder of BarBrusa Social, about how to get started (or smarter) on the app.   She breaks down how TikTok’s search features are transforming how people shop, why you don’t need to dance or go viral to succeed, and how to build a strategy that actually drives sales.   What’s Inside: [00:00] Why TikTok still matters for retailers in 2025 [01:25] Meet Penny Walker: TikTok trainer & content strategist at BarBrusa Social [01:56] What’s trending now (and how to reuse old trends) [04:54] TikTok is now a search engine—here’s how to use it [09:41]   How realistic is it for small businesses to drive sales directly through the TikTok app? [15:08] Real-world retail TikTok success stories [17:15] What type of content is working on TikTok? [20:23] Where to start: Penny’s step-by-step intro TikTok strategy [24:04] Connect with Penny Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Grab your essential FREE guide - How to clear excess stock without damaging your brand. -----   You don’t need a hefty budget to create displays that customers can’t resist. How you present your products in a physical space can directly impact how customers shop and what they spend. Whether you’re running a brick-and-mortar store, setting up at pop-ups, or showcasing at events, visual merchandising is key to drawing customers in and driving sales. In today’s episode, I’m joined by Michelle Sherrier. She’s a seasoned visual merchandising expert who’s transformed independent retailers and wholesale showrooms across the U.S. Michelle shares some fascinating insights and unexpected tips from her work with both big and small retailers. We’ll uncover the psychology behind product placement, dive into clever merchandising tricks, and arm you with actionable strategies to make your displays irresistible. [02:44] What visual merchandising involves [04:43] Tips to create a strong presence in a small retail space [06:50] Creative high-impact visual merchandising on a budget [11:05] Merchandising by category vs. lifestyle merchandising [14:43] How visual merchandising affects the way your customers shop [18:16] Tips for driving add-on purchases with your merchandising [22:08] How to find that spark of inspiration for a display Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

We’re in Q2 already! Time to take a step back, have a proper look at your numbers, and set yourself up for a strong second quarter.   In today’s episode, we’re going to chat about why it’s so important to know your numbers right now. Let’s review how Q1 went, make any necessary adjustments, and get you ready for the next 90 days.   For many of us, Q2 can be a bit quieter, which makes it the perfect time to dive into your metrics and make sure you’re on track for the rest of the year.   Today, I’ll take you through the key numbers to focus on and how to use them to plan your next quarter.    What's Inside: [00:00] Why you need to know your store’s numbers [05:42] The key numbers you need to know [07:33] How often should you review your profit & margins? [14:47] How to use Q2 as a reset button on your business [21:00] What to do if numbers feel overwhelming Resources: Stock Doctor Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

How do you go from zero to over a thousand stockists in under two years? That is exactly what we are talking about today. I am joined by Andrew Kemp, co-founder of Bare Kind and Candid Founders, a YouTube channel helping businesses grow through wholesale. Bare Kind is not your average sock company. They sell socks that save animals, supporting 40 different charities along the way, and they have successfully expanded into over a thousand retailers. In this episode, we look at the strategies behind that growth—using B2B ecommerce platforms, targeting niche markets, and building trust through certifications.  Even if you do not sell wholesale, there is plenty here for you! Andrew’s approach to finding and keeping customers is valuable no matter how you sell. [02:20] How Andrew scaled the brand so quickly in the early days [06:04] The biggest mistakes businesses make on the Faire platform [10:22] How Andrew helps retailers succeed with wholesale [12:49] One lesson Andrew wants founders to learn about retail [15:31] How to find contacts in your niche market [26:19] Ways that retailers can stay ahead in the wholesale market Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Grab your essential FREE guide - How to clear excess stock without damaging your brand. ----- For small businesses, every customer counts. But how do you turn a one-time buyer into a loyal customer? It’s not just in having great products, but it’s in your emails. Today, I’m joined by Hannah Spicer, an email marketing strategist who knows what it takes to keep customers coming back. She’s worked with top luxury and premium brands, and she’s here to share what really works. We’ll break down how email marketing goes beyond sales. From automated flows to post-purchase messages, small tweaks in timing and personalisation can make all the difference. Plus, Hannah shares simple, effective ways to use Klaviyo and other tools. If you want to build better customer relationships and make your emails work harder, this episode is for you. Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Signup for the Must-Attend Summit for Small Product Businesses - its FREE and designed for YOUR business! ----   What if I told you that in just two days, you could completely transform the way you run your retail business? After working with countless retailers, I know one thing for sure—the right strategies can make all the difference. And that’s exactly why I created Retail ROAR.  And now, it’s almost here! On the 20th and 21st of March, the Retail ROAR Summit is bringing together top experts, inspiring stories, and invaluable insights—all for free. If you haven’t signed up yet, now’s the time! I’ve spent the past year researching the biggest trends and curating an incredible lineup of speakers, all dedicated to helping you grow. In today’s episode, I’ll walk you through the must-attend sessions, the experts you won’t want to miss, and how to make the most of the event. Whether you’re tuning in live or catching the replays in our private Facebook group, this is your chance to connect, learn, and take your business to the next level.  Resources: Sign up for Retail ROAR! https://retailroar.co.uk  Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Grab your essential FREE guide - How to clear excess stock without damaging your brand. ----- Why do big retailers manage stock so differently from small businesses? Their approach can seem like a completely different world, but there’s a lot to learn. Especially about cash flow and profitability. Today, I’m joined by Paola Maggiulli, a merchandising expert and one of our Stock Doctors at The Resilient Retail Club. With years of big retail experience and her own business, she knows exactly how both sides think. We’ll dive into how big retailers make stock decisions, why data matters, and the common struggles small business owners face with promotions and markdowns. Most importantly, we’ll talk about how Stock Doctor takes the guesswork out of inventory, pricing, and cash flow. So you can stop winging it and start feeling confident in your numbers.   What's Inside: [02:58] How merchandising really works [06:48] The role of merchandising in retail [10:19] The transition from corporate to small business [13:16] Challenges and rewards of small business [17:44] The biggest difference between how small vs. big brands deal with stock [24:52] What you should know about markdowns Resources: Stock Doctor The Tiny Italian  Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Signup for the Must-Attend Summit for Small Product Businesses - its FREE and designed for YOUR! ---- I couldn’t be more excited to introduce you to Retail ROAR 2025! If you run a product-based business, whether as an independent retailer, e-commerce seller, or brand, this is the event you cannot afford to miss.   Retail ROAR is a free, two-day online summit happening on March 20th and 21st, designed specifically for small product businesses. I created this event because I saw a gap—big retail summits cater to massive corporations, while small business events often focus on service-based industries. But what about the small retailers, the e-commerce entrepreneurs, and the creative product founders? That’s exactly who this summit is for.   This year, we’re going even bigger, with an incredible lineup of expert speakers and successful product business founders who have built their brands from the ground up. Some of the inspiring names joining us this year include: Saira Khan (Founder of Saira Skin) – Built a 7-figure brand organically in under two years. Paige Williams (Founder of P Louise Cosmetics) – Turned a side hustle into a multi-million-pound empire with no outside investment. Daniel Priestley (Best-selling Author & Entrepreneur) – Teaching you how to attract and convert more customers in 2025. … and many more amazing speakers!   We’ll be covering everything you need to know to grow your business this year: ✅ Building a strong community around your brand ✅ Converting visitors into loyal customers ✅ Leveraging the latest consumer trends ✅ Selling more in 2025 with real, actionable strategies   How does it work? 💡 It’s completely free – just head to RetailROAR.co.uk and sign up. 💡 The event happens in a private Facebook group, so you can join live or catch the replays over the weekend. 💡 Talks are 30-45 minutes long, making it easy to fit into your schedule.   If you’re serious about making 2025 your best year yet for your product business, I promise you, this summit will be worth your time.   So don’t wait—go to RetailROAR.co.uk and sign up now! And if you know other product business owners who could benefit, please share this episode with them.   I can’t wait to see you at Retail ROAR 2025! 🎉 Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Grab your essential FREE guide - How to clear excess stock without damaging your brand. -----   Social media moves fast. It can feel overwhelming to keep up with, especially when you're running a product business. But staying ahead of the trends doesn’t mean spending all your time online.   I sat down with Janine Hardy, freelance social media manager and owner of Connected Inspired, to cut through the noise and highlight what actually matters in 2025. We’re talking short-form video, TikTok Shops, and how user-generated content (UGC) can do the heavy lifting in your marketing.   Janine also shares practical strategies for using automation and working with the algorithm instead of against it. And if you’ve been struggling to make Instagram Stories work for your business, she has some advice you won’t want to miss.   If you’re ready to get more strategic with your social media, Janine will be teaching inside the Resilient Retail Club membership during the first week of March. It’s the perfect chance to dive deeper and get hands-on guidance for your business!   [00:00] How to Make Social Media Work for You in 2025 with Janine Hardy [02:41] What small businesses need to know about 2025 social media trends [07:17] What retailers should look for in UGC creators [10:35] Is there such a thing as a sustainable social media presence? [15:03] The best way to use AI and automated for social media [19:34] The most common social media mistakes small businesses make Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Grab your essential FREE guide - How to clear excess stock without damaging your brand. ----- Have you ever found yourself wondering whether you’re truly making the most of your stock? Or perhaps questioned why a certain buying decision didn’t quite work out when that stock arrives? Then you’ll relate to Victoria Clark’s story today.   Victoria is the founder of Readymoney Beach Shop in Fowey, Cornwall. She turned an old public toilet block by a popular beach into a year-round shop that serves locals and visitors alike. On top of that, she runs a thriving e-commerce business selling locally sourced gifts, souvenirs, and homewares.   Her journey has had its fair share of challenges, particularly with stock management. Victoria’s here to share how the Stock Doctor service helped her move from feeling overwhelmed by inventory to gaining more control and running a more profitable business.    We’ll talk about how she navigates seasonal demand, selects the right products, and makes smarter decisions with data.   [00:00] Meet beach shop owner Victoria Clark [02:33] The ups and downs of growing a souvenir shop [09:57] What business was like before Victoria joined Stock Doctor [14:47] Learning to manage numbers and stock with confidence [18:38] How Victoria's peak season stock management has changed [21:25] The merchandising strategy she used to sell through overstock   Resources: Stock Doctor  Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

  Unleash your sales potential in 2025 with a tailor-made retail sales plan! Join the 5-day challenge - 10th - 14th February 2025 inside the Resilient Retail Club Membership! ------- Do you have a plan for the year? If not, you're not alone. A lot of planning-your-year advice out there is geared toward service businesses that often suggest December as the time to plan, right when retailers are focused on the holiday rush.   That’s why I believe January and February are actually the perfect months to take a step back and plan ahead for the year. If you're ready to get organized and take charge of your business in 2025, you're in the right place.   If you’ve felt like you’ve been reacting to problems instead of planning for success, this episode is for you. We’ll explore why setting goals is so important, how it can help guide your business, and I’ll share some practical tips for setting goals that are achievable and meaningful for the year ahead.   [00:00] Q1 is the best time to plan in retail [02:15] Why we need goals [04:39] Four mistakes we often make when setting goals [10:16] How to create goals that lead to success [12:39] Goal-setting without the overwhelm [15:03] Action steps for planning your 2025 goals   Resources: 5-Day Plan Your Sales Challenge Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Grab your essential FREE guide - How to clear excess stock without damaging your brand. ----- How does your mindset affect your sales? That’s what we’ll unpack in today’s episode with Sophie French. She’s a mindset coach and healer who works with women in business to overcome self-doubt and reach their full potential.   In this episode, we dive into how subconscious beliefs can hold you back, the fears of judgment and rejection that many business owners face, and practical strategies for building resilience and confidence.    Sophie also shares her journey from copywriting to coaching and how entrepreneurs can cultivate a healthier mindset to thrive.    [00:00] The impact of a sales mindset [02:51] How mindset drives success in business [05:05] What stops most people from promoting themselves [06:39] How unconscious beliefs shape business decisions [13:56] Becoming aware of your deep-rooted beliefs [18:53] The entrepreneurial journey   Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Grab your essential FREE guide - How to clear excess stock without damaging your brand. ----- With Christmas behind us, you might think the big seasonal event of the year is over, and it’s back to business as usual. But today, I want to shine a light on the many seasonal opportunities throughout the year that can help you create excitement and drive more sales. Seasonal events like Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, Easter, and Father’s Day are fantastic opportunities to connect with your audience in fresh, creative ways— without relying on discounts. And don’t overlook more niche events that might align perfectly with your business. As you listen, think about how these moments can inspire your marketing and spark your customer’s imagination.  [0:00] 4 seasonal events to drive sales early in the year [05:01] Why seasonal events matter for growth [07:55] How to work out which seasonal events are right for you [10:53] 3 ways to build a campaign with real impact [18:59] Make sure your campaign can keep delivering over time [21:04] Why opting out of seasonal emails might not be as effective anymore [23:08] What to avoid when planning seasonal events Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Grab your essential FREE guide - How to clear excess stock without damaging your brand. ----- Can success be learned, or is it something you’re born with? That’s the big question we’re exploring today. I’m so excited to welcome back to the podcast, Annabel Gonifas, a coach who specialises in mindset. Annabel brings her wealth of expertise to today’s conversation, where we discuss how overcoming limiting beliefs and cultivating a growth-focused mindset can truly transform your business journey. We’ll also explore the power of reflection and the importance of having the right mindset for sustainable business growth while avoiding burnout. If you’re looking to strengthen your mindset and grow your business with confidence, you’re in for a real treat—this episode is packed with insights! [00:00] Welcome back Annabel [04:30] The difference between self-belief and self-respect [05:54] How to navigate fast growth with sustainability [08:12] Overcoming the invisible walls and mindset barriers [13:00] Rediscovering the self-belief you already have [27:04] Habits to cultivate a strong business mindset  Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Grab your essential FREE guide - How to clear excess stock without damaging your brand. ----- Do you have more stock than you’d like but worry that discounting might harm your brand? If so, you’re in the right place. Today, we’re diving into one of my favourite topics: stock management. If you’re sitting on extra inventory, now is the perfect time to take action. January sales are a long-standing tradition—customers expect them. So, if you’re feeling hesitant about running discounts, rest assured that this is the prime time to clear excess dead stock without compromising your brand. In this episode, I’ll share seven practical tips to help you maximise your January sale and make smart, strategic moves for your business. [02:35] Why this is the perfect time to clear out stock [03:25] Review your five buckets of stock [06:54] How to elevate your sales messaging [08:01] Set your sales cadence [12:18] Make your sale easy to understand [13:48] Give your VIPs early acess [14:20]  Highlight the ethical urgency to shop   Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Grab your essential FREE guide - How to clear excess stock without damaging your brand. ----- Turning a passion project into a recognized brand isn’t easy. But Jamie Watkins of Divine Savages is here to share how they did it, including how they used PR and great imagery to stand out. Divine Savages is a bold and innovative interiors brand known for its striking wallpapers and fabrics. Jamie and his husband Tom turned their side project into a thriving business that has captured the attention of prestigious names like the Natural History Museum and Heal’s. In this episode, Jamie shares their journey from humble beginnings to industry recognition. He also offers practical insights on leveraging PR, creating standout imagery, and navigating the ever-changing retail landscape. Plus, he reflects on his experience in the mastermind. [00:00] Meet Jamie Watkins  [02:06]  What led Jamie decide to start an interior business [07:42] The highlights of running an interior business [10:58] How important is PR for an interior brand? [14:36] Tips from Jamie on how brands can approach partnerships [21:45] How they're navigating Instagram's changes [25:14] What Jamie has learned through the mastermind   Resources: Show Notes The Resilient Retail Club   Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Grab your essential FREE guide - How to clear excess stock without damaging your brand. ----- The holiday rush is behind us, and if you’ve been busy running your business up until Christmas, you’re probably taking a well-deserved breather, pulling yourself together, and getting your sanity back.    But before you get too comfortable, let’s take a moment to look ahead at what’s coming for 2025. In this episode, I want to talk you through what’s on the horizon for next year.    I’ll walk you through the key shifts that will shape the retail landscape and, more importantly, what they mean for your business. We’ll explore how to navigate the upcoming changes, and I’ll share some tips on how to prepare now to stay ahead of the curve.   [00:00] What's ahead in retail for 2025 [02:49] The shift towards younger consumers [08:13] How brands can adapt to fickle consumers [10:42] Why considered purchasing matters [16:09] Looking at hybrid retail: how people mix online and in-person shopping [21:03] Integrating generative AI into your retail operations Resources: The Resilient Retail Club   Catherine Erdly Forbes  NearSt   Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Grab your essential FREE guide - How to clear excess stock without damaging your brand. ----- In this episode, I’m joined by paid ad specialist Aggie Meroni to discuss everything about paid advertising in 2024 and projections for 2025. Aggie, founder of White Bee Digital, shares valuable insights on Meta ads, ad trends during Black Friday, and practical tips to enhance ad performance for retailers. The discussion covers how you should measure your ad performance against buyer behavior, the importance of being strategic with which products you put money behind, the evolving Meta platform, and the surprising success of employee-generated content. Catherine and Aggie also explore future strategies for advertising, emphasizing a human touch and intentional content planning. [01:32] Meet Aggie Moroni: Paid Ad Specialist and Founder of White Bee Digital [01:59] Black Friday Ad Insights [05:06] 2024 Advertising Landscape [11:44] Meta Platform Changes and Strategies [18:43] Boosting Ad Performance: Practical Tips for Retailers [24:53] Looking Ahead to 2025   ----- Learn more about Stock Doctor - https://www.resilientretailclub.com/stockdoctor/ Learn more about the Resilient Retail Club: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/membership/ Learn more about my mastermind for product business owners: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/retail-business-mentoring/    Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Grab your essential FREE guide - How to clear excess stock without damaging your brand. -- In this episode of the Resilient Retail Game Plan, I dive into the impact of effective PR for retailers with Fiona Minnett, the founder of Boss Your PR.    We discuss various types of PR such as product placement, founder profiling, and leveraging expertise, as well as strategies specifically for brick-and-mortar stores. I also provide practical tips for integrating PR into business plans for 2025.    Fiona emphasizes that many business owners are already engaging in PR without realizing it and offers her support to help them identify their unique stories and expertise angles.   [00:07] Meet Fiona Minnett: Small Business PR Expert [01:44] Fiona's PR Journey and Expertise [04:14] Fiona’s Mission to Democratize PR [08:00] Types of PR for Product Businesses [14:50] PR Strategies for Bricks and Mortar Stores [20:53] Getting Started with PR in 2025 [28:00] Final Tips and How to Connect with Fiona   Links: Learn more about Stock Doctor - https://www.resilientretailclub.com/stockdoctor/ Learn more about the Resilient Retail Club: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/membership/ Learn more about my mastermind for product business owners: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/retail-business-mentoring/  Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Grab your essential FREE guide - How to clear excess stock without damaging your brand. -- If you have a website but wonder why you aren’t ranking on the first page of google search results. Or if you have a local shop, but can’t seem to get your customers to find you online? Then the answer might be its time to take a look at your SEO.   In this episode, I’m joined by Amy Cook of Mango&Wild, an SEO and paid ad specialist.   We are discussing the latest trends in search engine optimization (SEO) for 2024. We explore the importance of SEO for both e-commerce and bricks-and-mortar stores, particularly focusing on local SEO strategies to boost sales and visibility.   This episode offers valuable insights for business owners looking to improve their online presence and drive more traffic to their websites.   [00:00] Why its so important for retailers to understand SEO [00:16] Meet Amy from Mango&Wild [02:43] The Importance of SEO in 2024 [08:49] Common SEO Mistakes to Avoid [13:42] Understanding Local SEO [16:32] Practical Tips for Local SEO [19:34] How to Connect with Mango&Wild   -- Learn more about Stock Doctor - https://www.resilientretailclub.com/stockdoctor/ Learn more about the Resilient Retail Club: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/membership/ Learn more about my mastermind for product business owners: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/retail-business-mentoring/ Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Grab your essential FREE guide - How to clear excess stock without damaging your brand. -- How would it feel if you could simplify your marketing efforts? Finding the time to focus on it and actually making it happen is one of the biggest challenges that many small business owners face. And that is the challenge that the software platform Constant Contact is aiming to solve with its services. We're joined by the UK general manager for Constant Contact, Erika Robinson. She's going to be telling us about her experiences as a small business owner, what she sees as the main challenges for marketing for small businesses, and how Constant Contact can help. Learn how technology and AI can level the playing field, giving small businesses the tools to compete with larger companies. [00:00] Introduction to Marketing Challenges for Small Businesses [00:15] Meet Erika Robinson from Constant Contact [02:15] Erika's Journey as a Small Business Owner [04:39] Marketing Challenges for Small Business Owners [06:22] How Constant Contact Simplifies Marketing [07:50] The Power of AI in Marketing [13:49] Email Marketing and Lead Generation [17:28] Constant Contact's UK Launch and Future Plans [21:08] A Special Offer from Constant Contact Links: Learn more about Constant Contact: https://www.constantcontact.com/uk Learn more about Stock Doctor: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/stockdoctor/ Learn more about the Resilient Retail Club: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/membership/ Learn more about my mastermind for product business owners: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/retail-business-mentoring/  Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Grab your essential FREE guide - How to clear excess stock without damaging your brand. -- Have you ever felt overwhelmed by your business numbers?   Maybe it seems like there's endless amounts of information that you can get your hands on, but you don't actually know what you're supposed to be doing with it.   Maybe your cashflow has felt really tight and unmanageable and that sometimes you are just robbing Peter to pay Paul and keep moving money around the business in order to keep things above water.   If the answer to that is yes, then today's episode with Kate Tompsett from Happy and Glorious may be a familiar story.   Kate is one of the first businesses to go through my new stock doctor program, and she has been working with her stock doctor since the summer and has been kind enough to come onto the podcast to share her experiences being a business owner.   And what I'm sure is a very common situation of feeling overwhelmed and how the stock doctors service has helped her out.   If you're interested in the Stock Doctor service, then do go check out resilientretailclub.com where you can find out all of the information and book in for a chat.   [00:31] Meet Kate Tompsett from Happy and Glorious [02:16] The Journey of Happy and Glorious [06:34] Why did Kate start working with the Stock Doctor? [12:37] Impact of Stock Doctor on Happy and Glorious [18:33] How Stock Doctor has changed the way Kate thinks about her business [21:59] What advice would Kate give to anyone else considering the Stock Doctor program? [24:17] Future Plans and Conclusion -- Links: Learn more about Stock Doctor Learn more about the Resilient Retail Club Learn more about my mastermind for product business owners   Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Have you ever chatted with a bot on Instagram? Chances are if you connected on a post of mine and got a link sent to you in your DMs, then you've interacted with my Resilient Retail Club Instabot.    But what is an Chatbot and how can it be useful for retailers?   In this episode, we are talking with Mel Eilers about the transformative potential of chatbots for retailers.    We delve into the benefits of using chatbots to enhance customer engagement, streamline operations, and boost sales. Mel offers practical examples and strategies, such as automating social media interactions and prioritizing marketing objectives. Additionally, we highlight the importance of compliance and the growing trend of conversational marketing among retailers.    This episode is a must-listen for small business owners looking to leverage technology to build a resilient retail business.   [01:43] Meet Mel Eilers: Chatbot Expert [02:18] Understanding Chatbots and Their Benefits for Retailers [03:57] Implementing Chatbots in E-commerce [05:09] Building Effective Chatbot Strategies [09:39] Expanding Chatbot Use Beyond Instagram [10:47] Success Stories and Case Studies [15:34] Compliance and Best Practices [18:04] Future of Chatbots in Retail [19:39] Getting Started with Chatbots [30:12] Chatup with Mel Eilers   Links: Get all of the details on the show notes Learn more about Stock Doctor Learn more about the Resilient Retail Club Learn more about my mastermind for product business owners Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Do you have too much stock in your business right now?    If you feel like a lot of money is tied up in stock and there is not quite enough in your bank account right now, you are not alone.    So I thought with the Christmas season fast approaching I would give you some practical ideas about how you can change that fast. Particularly, I am going to focus on how you can leverage all the fuss around Black Friday to clear your slow-selling dead stock without damaging your brand.   [02:14] The Impact of Discounts on Brand Perception [03:29] Effective Stock Management Strategies [06:49] Identifying and Categorizing Stock [13:39] Promotional Tactics for Slow Sellers [17:57] Final Tips and Recommendations   Links:   Learn more about Stock Doctor - https://www.resilientretailclub.com/stockdoctor/   Learn more about the Resilient Retail Club: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/membership/ Learn more about my mastermind for product business owners: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/retail-business-mentoring/ Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

It’s Halloween! And today’s episode is all about the horrors of customer service.   And I wanted to do it from both sides, not just from what you've experienced as business owners. And lots of you have shared your horror stories of what your customers have said and done, but also how it feels as a customer.    And just reflecting a little bit on what great customer service looks like and how to navigate some of these things because it can be really really difficult!   You'll discover how great customer service can significantly boost your business, alongside practical tips for handling more difficult situations so customer service doesn’t have to be the nightmare of your business! [00:00] A Customer Service Nightmare: The Faulty Frame [02:47] Reflective Listening: A Customer Service Technique [04:26] Halloween Special: Horrors of Customer Service [05:58] Tips for Handling Unhappy Customers [07:20] Real-Life Customer Service Horror Stories [08:43] Refund Policies and Customer Retention [09:56] The Importance of Communication [11:37] Handling Lost Parcels and Fraudulent Claims [13:30] Dealing with Difficult Customers [16:39] Setting Boundaries and Outsourcing Your Customer Service Links: Get all the resources in the show notes on our website Get How to Talk so Kids Will Listen…and Listen so Kids Will Talk Learn more about Stock Doctor Learn more about the Resilient Retail Club  Learn more about my mastermind for product business owners  Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

In this episode of the Resilient Retail Game Plan podcast, I tackle the challenges retailers face from September to November, focusing on cash flow management and strategic stock handling.    I delve into the reasons behind the cash flow pinch during this period, such as holiday season stocking and payment timing issues. I share practical advice on delaying expenses, collecting owed payments, and using detailed cash flow forecasts. I also introduce my 'Stock Doctor' service to help manage underperforming stock and emphasize the importance of balanced inventory year-round.    Tune in for actionable insights to navigate cash flow challenges and boost your retail success during the holiday season.    [00:00] The Seasonal Cash Flow Crunch [00:33] Understanding the Retail Cash Flow Pinch [02:15] The Impact of Holiday Preparations [05:39] Strategies for Managing Payments [09:20] Creating a Sales and Stock Plan [10:46] Importance of Cashflow Forecasting [12:09] Optimizing Stock for Better Cashflow [13:03] Strategies for Managing Excess Stock [13:41] Planning for Seasonal Inventory [15:36] Final Tips for Cashflow Management [17:03] Resources and Support   Links: Get all of the details on our website. Learn more about Stock Doctor Learn more about the Resilient Retail Club Learn more about my mastermind for product business owners Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

We often hear headlines that the UK High Street is in decline and all kinds of scare stories for brick-and-mortar stores. So in today's episode, I wanted to take the time to go through some recent numbers so we can see what's actually happening in the UK high street. As well as share my thoughts about what's ahead for bricks and mortar. I don’t think it is all sunshine and roses for the high street. There are lots of challenges from rising costs and consumers shift to purchasing online does have some impact. But I think we will see many more independent retailers. I'd love to see more retailers being able to experiment with having their customers come to them, and learn more about their brand. I think people really crave that ability to touch, feel, and see things. And I also think that for a lot of people, the numbers are going to add up for them to have a physical retail space, especially if you're somebody who's established online. So  I'm going to say I'm cautiously optimistic about the future. This is purely my opinion based on what I've read and what I believe to be true. But I'd love to hear what you think, what your experiences are, what it's like in your local area. Do you have a really thriving independent retail scene? Or have you seen it decline? Do you shop at local retailers? What's your experience like? How do you feel that the retail industry is going to be shifting?    [01:42] Analyzing the Decline of UK High Street [02:44] The Rise of Independent Retailers [04:28] Impact of Online Shopping on Retail [07:22] Chore Shopping vs. Cherish Shopping [08:28] Challenges in E-commerce and Retail Trends [09:41] The Rise of E-commerce [10:18] Challenges of E-commerce Profitability [15:02] The Future of the UK High Street [16:10] The Need for Vision and Flexibility [17:34] The Impact of Business Rates Links: Get all of the resources on our website Learn more about the Resilient Retail Club Learn more about my mastermind for product business owners   Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

In this exciting episode, I introduce a brand-new format for the Resilient Retail Game Plan, featuring a live consulting call with Becky Barratt from Driftwood Designs. Becky shares with me that at times they have found that they are surprised to discover that they are out-of-stock on their most popular products only to find that it might be up to eight weeks before they can get new inventory from the manufacturer. Becky is looking for guidance on how she can move from being reactive to limited stock to be proactive. I offer a couple of solutions that Becky can try and we discuss the possibility of implementing each given her unique products and business growth. This insightful conversation provides practical strategies you can apply to your own retail business.   [02:31] Meet Becky from Driftwood Designs [04:37] Becky's Stock Question: How do I move from being reactive to being proactive about my stock?  [07:23] Option #1: Re-platform - this is the most complex but might offer the best long-term solution [10:54] Option #2: Kanban Method - More practical and quicker to implement on the stock that matters most [13:27] Which products should be included in a Kanban solution [17:40] What to do if you are second-guessing your product choices [19:42] What actions will Becky take based on the conversation?   Links: Learn more about Stock Doctor - Take advantage of the early bird special!  £200 off if you book your Stock Doctor call by October 21st. https://www.resilientretailclub.com/stockdoctor/ If you would like to have me answer a question you have about running your retail business on the podcast, then reach out to me at [email protected]. Get all of the resources in our show notes on the website at https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast-episode/practical-solutions-to-avoid-stock-shortages/ Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

In today's episode, I unveil a brand new service called Stock Doctor. This revolutionary done-for-you service is designed to help retail business owners understand their stock and cash flow management without the stress and guesswork. With expert analysis, customized plans, and direct support, Stock Doctor aims to improve profitability and eliminate financial uncertainties. Tune in to learn more about how this service can transform your business and take advantage of our special early bird offer.   [00:25] Introducing Stock Doctor [01:56] The Inspiration Behind Stock Doctor [05:42] How Stock Doctor Works [07:54] The Benefits of Stock Doctor [11:38] Who Should Use Stock Doctor? [13:25] Special Offer to Join Stock Doctor Links: Learn more about Stock Doctor and take advantage of the early bird special!  £200 off if you book your Stock Doctor call by October 21st. https://www.resilientretailclub.com/stockdoctor/   Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Today let’s delve into the anticipated trends and predictions for Christmas 2024. Drawing on research from PwC, Mintel, Retail Week, NatWest, and other sources, we explore the macroeconomic outlook, consumer spending behaviors, and sector-specific expectations. We discuss the importance of value, omnichannel strategies, brand loyalty, and sustainability for small business owners. Additionally, I provide insights into how to effectively plan for early Christmas shopping, online sales, and promotional periods. Tune in to understand the challenges and opportunities awaiting independent retailers and e-commerce businesses this festive season.   [02:15] Economic Outlook for Christmas 2024 [04:12] Christmas Spending Predictions [07:16] Omnichannel Strategies for Small Businesses [12:04] Consumer Spending Behavior and Value [15:20] Sector-Specific Predictions [17:10] What I Believe Christmas 2024 Will Hold Links: Get the show notes on our website at: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast-episode/2024-christmas-unwrapped-insights-for-retailers/ Learn more about the Resilient Retail Club: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/membership/ Learn more about my mastermind for product business owners: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/retail-business-mentoring/ Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

In this episode of the Resilient Retail Game Plan, I sit down with Daniella Raffa, founder of Mama Shack, to discuss her journey from product designer to successful entrepreneur in the baby essentials market.    Daniella shares her story of identifying a gap in the market for stylish and practical baby products, leveraging her background in product development and design to build her business. We delve into the growth and evolution of Mama Shack, the challenges of fulfillment, and the importance of knowing your strengths and when to outsource tasks.    With valuable insights into scaling a product business and maintaining a vision of success, this episode is a must-listen for any aspiring or current product business owner. Tune in to hear Daniella’s story and learn more about the tools and techniques that can help you build a resilient retail business.   [02:03] Meet Daniella Raffa of Mama Shack [02:42] The Origin Story of Mama Shack [04:54] Expanding the Product Line [07:37] Challenges and Fulfillment Solutions [12:11] Outsourcing and Delegation [22:08]Advice for New Entrepreneurs [25:16] Future Plans for Mama Shack [26:10] Conclusion and Farewell   Links: Gat all of the resources in our show notes at: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast-episode/leaning-into-expertise-a-retailer-success-story-with-daniella-raffa-of-mamma-shack/ Learn more about the Resilient Retail Club: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/membership/ Learn more about my mastermind for product business owners: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/retail-business-mentoring/   Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

In this episode of the Resilient Retail Game Plan podcast, I interview Lucy Greenwood, co-founder of the ethical and sustainable clothing brand Lucy & Yak.    Lucy shares insights from their journey, which began in 2017. We discuss the importance of authenticity, community building, and the brand's purpose-led initiatives.    We also touch on the challenges of maintaining strong values as the company grows, handling mistakes, and the impact of social media on brand representation.    Additionally, Lucy unveils exciting future plans, including the expansion of the 'RE-YAK' initiative and the potential launch of a mobile second-hand shop.   [02:25] What would Lucy Greenwood say is the secret of success? [06:31] The mistake that turned into Lucy & Yak's brand identity  [10:10] The impact of community on Lucy & Yak [17:26] Why it's so important to know your values in business [22:44] The challenges behind building body awareness in the media [26:49] What's next for Lucy and Yak?    Get all of the details in the show notes: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast-episode/secrets-to-purpose-led-success/   Links: Learn more about the Resilient Retail Club: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/membership/   Learn more about my mastermind for product business owners: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/retail-business-mentoring/   Other episodes you might like: Finding Purpose In Your Brand with Jo Tuchener-Sharp Founder of Scamp & Dude https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast-episode/finding-purpose-in-your-brand/   Building In Sustainability And Changing The Fashion Business Model With Cally Russell  https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast-episode/building-in-sustainability-and-changing-the-fashion-business-model-with-cally-russell/ Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

In this episode of the Resilient Retail Game Plan, I interview Jo Tuchener-Sharp, the founder of Scamp and Dude, a purpose-led fashion brand transforming the world of fashion into a force for good. Jo shares her moving story from working in PR to experiencing a life-changing brain hemorrhage, which led her to create a brand with a strong ethos beyond profit. We discuss Scamp and Dude's key initiatives like the superhero sleep buddies and super scarves, their purposeful charity contributions, and the importance of authenticity and connection with customers. Jo also talks about the challenges and triumphs in growing her business, becoming B Corp certified, and expanding into physical stores. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on building a business with heart and the power of resilience.   [01:44] Meet Jo Tuchener-Sharp: Founder of Scamp and Dude [02:26] The Life-Changing Event That Started Scamp & Dude [07:35] Charitable Initiatives: Super Scarves and Sleep Buddies [16:25] Becoming a B Corp: The Journey and Impact [21:55] How Physical Store Locations Have Created a Closer Connection with Their Customers [26:18] Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs [28:52] Where to Find Scamp and Dude   Get all of the details on our website at: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast-episode/finding-purpose-in-your-brand/ Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Today we are diving deep into the critical topic of profit margins and their importance in maintaining a profitable, sustainable and abundant retail business. I’m sharing examples from my retail industry experience to break down how to calculate profit margins, common mistakes to avoid, and practical strategies for improving profitability.I will also share how to balance costs and manage cash flow. Don't miss this episode filled with fundamental principles and actionable advice.   If you are looking for some additional help to working out what your profit margins should be you can download my calculator here.    [00:53] Revisiting a Popular Episode on Pricing [02:38] Understanding Retail Profit Margins [08:21] Common Mistakes in Calculating Retail Profit Margins [13:38] Calculating Your Profit Margin (https://www.resilientretailclub.com/blog/calculate-retail-business-profit)  [17:03] Considering Profit Margins Across Collections and Sales Channels [22:36] What Is A Healthy Profit Margin (https://www.resilientretailclub.com/blog/what-is-a-good-profit-margin/) [28:06] What To Do If Profit Margins Are Low (https://www.resilientretailclub.com/blog/10-proven-ways-to-improve-the-profitability-of-your-small-business/) [33:43] Conclusion and Final Thoughts   Links: Profit Margin Calculator: https://futureretail.lpages.co/margin-calculator-2024/ Get more great resources in the show notes at https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast-episode/mastering-retail-profit-margins-with-catherine-erdly/ Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

In this episode of the Resilient Retail Game Plan, I'm joined by Amazon selling expert Vicky Weinberg. We discuss how to make your products and brand stand out on Amazon, Vicky’s journey from a baby product brand owner to an Amazon consultant, and the importance of understanding Amazon's fee structure and fulfillment options.    Vicky emphasizes the value of utilizing all available Amazon features, making your product's unique selling points clear, and understanding your business's motivations for selling on the platform.    Tune in to hear Vicky's insights on navigating international sales on Amazon and the future changes small businesses can expect on the platform.   [01:19] Meet Vicky Weinberg: Amazon Selling Expert [01:51] Vicky's Journey: From Baby Products to Amazon Consulting [03:17] Can every product be sold successfully on Amazon? [07:04] How to Maximize Your Amazon Listings [13:41] Considerations Before Selling on Amazon [17:08] Understanding Amazon Fulfillment Options [20:17] Expanding Internationally with Amazon [24:29] Future Trends and Changes on Amazon [27:39] Conclusion and Where to Find More Information   Other episodes you might like:   155: Building a small business on Amazon with Emily Johnson  191: Dive into Google Shopping Ads with Sara Jones  Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

In this episode of the Resilient Retail Game Plan, I'm addressing one of the most requested topics from my audience: how to clear slow stock without damaging your brand.    We'll explore what makes a discounting strategy harmful to your brand, and why it's crucial to avoid blanket discounts in favor of targeted promotions. I'll walk you through practical steps for categorizing your stock into prime, okay, ends of line, slow sellers, and out-of-season, and provide actionable tips on how to manage each category effectively.    We'll also discuss backup methods like secondary market sales and donations to clear persistent stock.    Tune in to learn how to keep your brand's value intact while managing your inventory efficiently.   [00:00] How do you clear slow stock without damaging your brand? [01:50] Understanding Brand-Damaging Strategies [02:57] Principles of Effective Discounting [06:52] Identifying and Categorizing Your Stock [10:39] Strategies for Clearing Slow Sellers [16:06] Secondary Methods for Stock Clearance [18:44] Additional Resources   Download a free chapter of my book from the show notes on my website at https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast-episode/clearing-slow-stock-without-damaging-your-brand-with-catherine-erdly/   Learn more about the Resilient Retail Club: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/membership/   Learn more about my mastermind for product business owners: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/retail-business-mentoring/   If you liked this episode you might also like: 196: Stock Management Questions Answered: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast-episode/your-stock-management-questions-answered/   17: 5 Steps to Running a Stock Clearance Sale https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast-episode/5-steps-to-running-a-stock-clearance-sale/ Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

The Power of Routines: Key Habits of Successful Retailers   Today we are delving into the routines and habits that highly successful retailers adopt to thrive. I’m breaking down essential routines—from daily to yearly planning—that help businesses stay proactive and in control. I discuss the importance of structure, focusing on critical tasks first, and regularly reviewing business performance. Listen in for practical tips on setting priorities, planning time blocks, and maintaining focus to grow and sustain a resilient retail business. Don't forget to check the show notes for a handy PDF guide on these routines.   [00:00] Routines Of Highly Successful Retailers [02:17] Why Routines Matter for Retail Success [05:02] Daily Routines for Retailers [09:20] Weekly Routines for Retailers [12:35] Monthly Routines for Retailers [16:02] Quarterly Routines for Retailers [18:48] Yearly Routines for Retailers [20:11] Conclusion and Additional Resources   Get access to the show notes and your free copy of the Routines of Highly Successful Retailers pdf on our website at https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast-episode/routines-of-highly-successful-retailers-with-catherine-erdly/   Learn more about the Resilient Retail Club: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/membership/   Learn more about my mastermind for product business owners: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/retail-business-mentoring/ If you liked this episode you might also like:  24: The Planning Process: SWOT Up And Get SMART  Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Making Christmas Content Fun: Tips for Product Businesses with Alice Loveday   Today I’m joined by Alice Loveday, founder of Loveday Social, to discuss how small businesses can create fun and engaging Christmas content. We emphasize the importance of planning and starting early (we mean now, in the summer!) with a strategy that includes breaking down content purposes, using creative techniques like stop motion and video transitions, and nurturing customer relationships throughout the year. Alice shares practical tips and app recommendations for creating compelling content and stresses the value of showing passion and personality to connect with audiences.   [00:00] Crafting Creative Christmas Content with Alice Loveday [01:56] Meet Alice Loveday: Stop Motion Expert [02:49] Breaking Down Christmas Content Strategy [12:16] Creating Engaging and Fun Content [17:11] Tools and Apps for Creative Content [19:20] Finding Inspiration and Staying Creative [23:55] Standing Out During the Christmas Rush   Get all the details in the show notes: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast-episode/crafting-creative-christmas-content-with-alice-loveday/   Links: Learn more about the Resilient Retail Club (a membership for product based business owners): https://www.resilientretailclub.com/membership/   Related Episodes in this series: 208: Stress-free Christmas Marketing for Retailers with Catherine Erdly  207: Christmas in July: Secrets to Creating Irresistible Christmas Products with Joanne Griffin  206: Christmas in July: How to Find Your Perfect Christmas Inventory 205: Christmas in July: Thriving Through the Christmas Season with Mike Cole  204: Christmas in July: Why Now is the Time to Plan Your Christmas Strategy    Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

In this episode, I'll be sharing insights on how to prepare your Christmas marketing strategy efficiently. We've already covered strategies, handling burnout, product preparation, and more in previous episodes of this series.    Today, I'll guide you on creating a structured marketing plan, breaking down the 13-week period before Christmas, and offer tips on repurposing successful past content to ease your workload. We'll also discuss the importance of a balance between planned content and spontaneous social media posts to keep your marketing fresh and engaging.    [02:03] Importance of a Christmas Marketing Plan [02:50] Creating a Week-by-Week Marketing Plan [03:12] Using the Christmas Timeline to Determine Your Customer's Buying Decisions [04:24] Choosing Christmas Promotional Activities and Offers [05:39] Planning and Preparing Marketing Assets [08:25] Balancing Structure and Spontaneity Links: Learn more about the Resilient Retail Club: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/membership/   Learn more about my mastermind for product business owners: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/retail-business-mentoring/ Related Episodes in this series: 207: Christmas in July: Secrets to Creating Irresistible Christmas Products with Joanne Griffin: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast-episode/secrets-to-creating-irresistible-christmas-products-with-joanne-griffin/   206: Christmas in July: How to Find Your Perfect Christmas Inventory https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast-episode/how-to-find-your-perfect-christmas-inventory/   205: Christmas in July: Thriving Through the Christmas Season with Mike Cole https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast-episode/christmas-in-july-thriving-through-the-christmas-season-with-mike-cole/   204: Christmas in July: Why Now is the Time to Plan Your Christmas Strategy https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast-episode/why-now-is-the-time-to-plan-your-christmas-strategy/ Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Today I get to share expert tips on developing products that your customers will eagerly buy for Christmas. I'm joined by Joanne Griffin, founder of Creative Flow Collective, as we discuss using customer research and trends to create standout products. We emphasize the importance of market research, understanding your unique selling proposition (USP), and staying relevant through trends and customer feedback. We provide actionable insights for product businesses aiming to excel during the holiday season.   [02:05] Welcome JoAnne Griffin [03:50] How do you look at customer feedback and your sales data to work out what's gonna be hit at Christmas? [07:17] How can you gather customer feedback on why they purchased your product? [09:19] How do you cut through the noise to get your customer's attention at Christmas? [12:40] What if you don't know what makes your story unique? [16:43] What are some ways you can do market research to create products that are relevant? [18:26] How can you do market research? [22:54] Where are some of the places that people can look to find out more about trends? Next Steps:   Learn more about the Resilient Retail Club: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/membership/   Learn more about my mastermind for product business owners: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/retail-business-mentoring/ Related Episodes in this series: 206: Christmas in July: How to Find Your Perfect Christmas Inventory https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast-episode/how-to-find-your-perfect-christmas-inventory/   205: Christmas in July: Thriving Through the Christmas Season with Mike Cole https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast-episode/christmas-in-july-thriving-through-the-christmas-season-with-mike-cole/   204: Christmas in July: Why Now is the Time to Plan Your Christmas Strategy https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast-episode/why-now-is-the-time-to-plan-your-christmas-strategy/ Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Today, we're diving into your Christmas product strategy for 2024. I'll guide you through analyzing last year's sales data, identifying 'hero' products, planning your product range, setting your launch date, and making accurate sales projections.    Whether you have years of Christmas sales data or are gearing up for your first holiday season, this episode will help you prepare effectively.    [00:00] How to Find Your Perfect Christmas Inventory [00:53] Overview of Christmas Product Strategy [02:54] Analyzing Past Performance [04:15] Identifying Hero Products [07:17] Planning Your Product Range with a Focus on Gift Giving [08:22] Deciding on Holiday Launch Dates [12:15] Deciding which is worse, to have too much of this item or not enough? [15:34] Final Preparations and Conclusion Links: Learn more about the Resilient Retail Club: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/membership/   Learn more about my mastermind for product business owners: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/retail-business-mentoring/ Related Episodes in this series: 205: Christmas in July: Thriving Through the Christmas Season with Mike Cole https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast-episode/christmas-in-july-thriving-through-the-christmas-season-with-mike-cole/   204: Christmas in July: Why Now is the Time to Plan Your Christmas Strategy https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast-episode/why-now-is-the-time-to-plan-your-christmas-strategy/ Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Today I’m joined by business coach Mike Cole to discuss effective strategies for preparing for the Christmas season. We talk about the importance of setting realistic plans, identifying non-negotiables, and avoiding the pitfalls of 'happy path' planning. Mike shares insights on capacity planning, business continuity planning, and the importance of self-care during busy periods. We also discuss what steps to take if you find yourself in a state of cascade failure. Tune in to learn how to not only survive but enjoy the Christmas rush.   [02:30] Welcome Mike Cole! [04:02] If you're juggling lots of balls, how do you identify the most important balls that should not be dropped? In other words, how do you find your non-negotiables? [07:57] Why you should avoid “Happy Path” planning [19:36] Do you have a business continuity plan? [25:04] What happens if you don't quite get it right and you go into cascade failure, is there anything you can do in the midst of it all?   Links: Join the Resilient Retail Club to Plan a successful Christmas Season: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/membership/   Related Episodes in this series: 205: Christmas in July: Thriving Through the Festive Season with Mike Cole https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast-episode/christmas-in-july-thriving-through-the-christmas-season-with-mike-cole/ 204: Christmas in July: Why Now is the Time to Plan Your Christmas Strategy https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast-episode/why-now-is-the-time-to-plan-your-christmas-strategy/   Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Today we are kicking off a six-part series on preparing for the crucial time of year for retailers, Christmas.    In this episode, I explain why now is the perfect time to start planning and share insights on setting goals, reviewing past performance, and strategizing for the upcoming holiday season. We'll explore how to plan for sales, manage resources effectively, and ensure your business is ready to delight customers. Whether you're a Christmas-focused brand or have another peak season, this episode provides valuable tips to ensure a seamless, (stress-free?) and profitable end-of-year period.   From July 15th - 19th, inside the Resilient Retail Club we have a five-day challenge to put together your Christmas strategy. Learn more about the Resilient Retail Club.    [03:06] How do I define the "Christmas Season" (and what to do if Christmas isn't your peek-season) [05:37] Why are we talking about Christmas now (at the start of summer!)? [06:02] Building a Christmas Strategy 1: Analyze what happened last Christmas [07:31] Building a Christmas Strategy 2: What is your intention for this year? [09:27] Building a Christmas Strategy 2: How much are you going to make this year? Links: Learn more about the Resilient Retail Club: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/membership/   Learn more about my mastermind for product business owners: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/retail-business-mentoring/ Related Episodes: 162: How to Strategise for Christmas Success https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast-episode/how-to-strategise-for-christmas-success/   154: 7 Tips for Using Summer to Get Ready for Christmas https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast-episode/7-tips-for-using-summer-to-get-ready-for-christmas/   Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

How do you improve the cash flow in your independent retailer or e-commerce brand?    I want to introduce you to an acronym that I came up with to talk about the different elements that make up the cash flow in your business. And that, appropriately enough, is SHOPS.    And in today's episode, I'm going to talk you through the five different elements of SHOPS and how each one has its part to play in cash flow.    If you want to improve the cash flow in your business, by the end of this episode you should know where to start and what you might need help with.   [00:00] 5 Elements for Better Retail Cash Flow (SHOPS) [01:42] What is the meaning of cash flow [03:34] SHOPS - The elements for better cash flow [04:10] S if for Sales [06:29] H is for Having a cash flow map [10:23] O is for Overheads [11:56] P is for Profit [13:13] S is for Stock [13:40] What I look at when people come to me with a cash flow issue [16:26] Do you want help managing your cash flow? Links: Learn more about my mastermind for product business owners: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/retail-business-mentoring/ Related Episodes: Ep198: 5 Truths About Cash Flow in Retail - https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast-episode/5-truths-about-cash-flow-in-retail/   Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

In this episode of the Resilient Retail Game Plan, host Catherine Erdly and coach Annabel Gonifas explore how mindset influences business performance. Catherine discusses her personal experiences and emphasizes the importance of addressing mindset in her Product Business Mastermind. Annabel elaborates on the key challenges small business owners face, such as limiting beliefs, values alignment, and understanding personality strengths using tools like Clarity 4D. They discuss how understanding these elements can help business owners overcome procrastination, enhance motivation, and align their businesses with their true values and strengths. The conversation offers practical insights into how a strong partnership between strategic consulting and mindset coaching can lead to business transformation.   [00:00] How Mindset Impacts Business Success [02:55] Welcome to Annabel Gonifas [03:43] What are some of the ways that small business owners are holding themselves backMarker [04:46] Examples of some common limiting beliefs and how they might play out in your business [07:37] Why do so many small business owners struggle with mental blocks when it comes to running a business (that they didn't seem to have in a 9-5)? [10:50] What can procrastination tells us? [14:44] What is personality profiling? How does it work and how is useful in your business?   Links: Learn more about my mastermind for product business owners: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/retail-business-mentoring/   Related Episodes: 143: Four Key Traits That Product Business Owners Need To Have In Order To Flourish - https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast-episode/four-key-traits-that-product-business-owners-need-to-have-in-order-to-flourish/   147: 7 Vital Ways To Avoid Giving Up On Slow Sales Days - https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast-episode/7-vital-ways-to-avoid-giving-up-on-slow-sales-days/   179: 7 Lessons I Learned from My Mastermind Members - https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast-episode/7-lessons-i-learned-from-my-mastermind-members/ Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

It's amazing the difference that a year can make.    I am one year into my signature mastermind and I'm just about to start welcoming the fifth cohort of my signature Mastermind program where I work in-depth with ambitious product business owners, finding out what's going on with them, discovering what their challenges are, and helping them achieve their business goals.   And since I effectively become part of their teams for six-months (or more), it has given me this insight into what is going on inside these amazing and successful businesses.    What I want to share with you in this episode are the lessons that I have learned from working with a wide variety of ambitious product business owners, e-commerce brands, and independent retailers and help you to think more broadly about what it means to be a product business owner in 2024.   So let’s dive in:   [03:10] The Benefits of the Mastermind for Product-based Business Owners [05:42] Lesson One: There are lots of different routes to success for product-based businesses [09:47] Lesson Two: High Street is NOT dead - there is a place for independent retailers [11:53] Lesson Three: A founder’s focus is critical to the success of your business [15:39] Lesson Four: It is possible to be in control of your business numbers [19:34] Lesson Five: (With help) It may take a lot less time than you think to accomplish your most pressing goals. [22:35] Five things that I've learned from running a Mastermind for product-based business owners. [23:30] Join the next cohort of the Mastermind!   Learn more about the mastermind at https://www.resilientretailclub.com/retail-business-mentoring/ Get all of the show details on our website at https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast-episode/5-lessons-ive-learned-from-ambitious-product-business-owners/ Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

I can't believe I'm actually saying this, but it's episode number 200 of the Resilient Retail Game Plan.    It is unbelievable to me that the podcast that I started nearly four years ago in 2020 has just hit its 200th episode, and I wanted to do something a little bit different today.   I have swapped places with my guests and I am being interviewed for today's episode.    I'm being interviewed by Sarah Scott, who is my podcast manager. We are diving into why I started the podcast, what I love about hosting this show and where we are going.    I want to sincerely thank every single one of you who has listened to the podcast today and at any point in the last four years, you've been a huge part of getting the podcast to 200 episodes, and I am so incredibly grateful.   And if you have a story that you would like to share with other product-based retailers, then please reach out, I would love to talk to you about being a guest in an upcoming episode.  [00:00] Celebrating 200 Episodes of the Resilient Retail Game Plan [02:30] How it started - With all the different content strategies available for businesses, why start a podcast? [04:28] What format did the podcast start in and how has that evolved? [08:33] The benefits of having a podcast has had on the business [15:47] Which type of episode does Catherine enjoy more - solo or interview? [17:35] Where do guests come from? [19:16] Would you like to be a guest ... this is how you do it! [21:49] What are your favorite things about being a podcast host? [27:13] What inspires ideas for new episodes? [30:57] What's next for the podcast?   Get all of the resources on our website at https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast-episode/celebrating-200-episodes/ Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Father's Day is coming and it is the last big gift-giving occasion before Christmas. Generally speaking its not as big as big as Mother's Day in terms of spend, but it's still significant and it is definitely worth exploring.   Today I’m going to share 12 marketing ideas for you in your business when it comes to Father's Day.    Let’s Dive In   [00:00] Father’s Day is Coming  [02:02] #1 Highlight what collections you have for Father's Day [02:58] 2024 Trending Categories for Father's Day [05:47] #2 Curate Gift Bundles [07:34] #3 Gift Guides [08:09] #4 Emphasize Personalization [08:51] #5 Introduce New Products [09:40] #6 Lean into Dad and Grandad Personalized Items [10:31] #7 Engage Wholesale Clients [11:06] #8 Special Promotions [11:40] #9 Additional Father's Day Incentives [12:24] #10 Keep an eye on seasonal inventory [13:37] #11 Giveaway Competitions [15:40] #12 Promote Gift Cards   Get all the details on our website at https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast-episode/12-essential-fathers-day-marketing-tips-for-your-product-business/ Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

How do you find managing cash flow in your business?     If it is something that comes to you easily, you may be surprised to hear that you are definitely in the minority.    If you're one of the people who feels like cash flow is stressful and everybody else has it figured out, then I can promise you it is not the case.    Over the last few weeks, I have spent some time talking to retailers one-on-one about how they manage their cash flow in their business. And it has been absolutely fascinating   If you are feeling like cash flow is a bit stressful I want to let you know that there is a way forward, it is possible to have a business where you can feel in control of your cash flow. I'm working on a new service that I will be launching later in the year. If you would like to learn more as details are released please sign up for the waitlist. https://futureretail.lpages.co/feel-good-business/   Let’s get into this episode:   [00:00] 5 Truths About Cash Flow in Retail [02:54] What is cash flow exactly? [04:40] What does good cash flow management look like? [06:56] What does it look like when you don't have a handle on your cash flow? [08:54] 5 truths about cash flow management that I learned from retailers [09:06] Truth #1: If you are feeling in control of your cash flow, then you are in the minority.  [09:58] Truth #2: Everyone believes that everyone else is managing their cash flow better than they are. [11:26] Truth #3: Your accountant might not be giving you all the services you need to manage your cash flow. [12:33] Truth #4: Retailers have a lot of information, but they don't always know what to do with it (Or how to take action based on the information) [14:08] Truth #5: Retailers want to know how do they compare to everyone else or at least understand how other retailers are managing their cash flow. [15:02] This is what I want you to take away from my cash flow research    Get all of the details and resources on our website at: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast-episode/5-truths-about-cash-flow-in-retail/   Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Creating content for our businesses, love it or hate it, it is part of the everyday life of a small business owner. But how do you do it in a way that doesn't suck all of the joy and fun out of the process?    In this episode, I'm joined by Char Dixon. Char is the founder of Loudmouth Content. She also has a really in-depth background in the retail industry and a whole host of knowledge about what it takes to market and promote your product business in a way that feels joyful, fun, and without the overwhelm.    This episode has a lot of actionable tips for your business so let's dive in.   [00:00] Social Media Content Creation Secrets for Retailers with Char Dixon from Loudmouth Content [01:50] Welcome Char Dixion of Loudmouth Content [04:48]  How do you think people should be optimizing it or making the most out of their content to make sure it's pulling its weight? [08:10] How do we make our own headlines? [10:36] How can you use content to move people through the sales process? [13:02] What type of digital content fits each phase of the buyer's journey? [15:29] How do you create content that builds community and connection? [21:21] Tips for streamlining content creation for small businesses. [24:50] How do you measure the success of your content?  [27:32] Where to find out more about Char Dixon at Loudmouth Content   Want to learn more about content creation? Check out these other episodes. 169: Strategic Content Production And Youtube With Matthew Hughes 170: All Things TikTok With Penny Walker   Get all of the resources on our website at https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast-episode/social-media-content-creation-secrets-with-char-dixon/ Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Today I will be answering four questions that I've been asked from my membership and mastermind about stock management.     If you've got a question about stock management that isn’t answered by today's podcast, you can join the Resilient Retail Club, where you will be able to ask me whatever questions you’d like whenever you like.    And if you have enjoyed this series on stock management but you know, for a fact, you will just not have the time to do it, then I do encourage you to join the waiting list for my new service, which will be launching later this year. I am going to be able to work with you to manage your stock better. Join the waiting list here: https://futureretail.lpages.co/feel-good-business/   Let’s Dive In:   [00:00] Your Stock Management Questions Answered [01:51] If you have questions about stock management that are not answered here reach out! [02:22] Question 1: I'm a stationery company and I sell both direct to consumer and business to business. It would take me around 10 business days to get more stock.  I've heard that you should always order the minimum order quantity (MOQ) when testing out a new product. But what if that minimum is one?  [06:28] Question 2: Quite a bit of my stock has a really long lead time, like six months, and I need to buy quite a bit to get a decent price in shipping. How do you balance making sure you don't run out of stock with not carrying too much? Should I carry smaller amounts and order more often, even if it means the margin takes a hit?   [10:16] Question #3: I would like some guidance when stock has to be ordered a long way in advance. So for example, in my case, children's clothes are pre-ordered in autumn for spring delivery with new designs and styles released. I find this challenging as I'm being forced to buy in larger quantities than I would usually as I can only pre-order. They have no stock to order again if I misjudge. Plus it's a new design so I feel like I'm gambling on what would sell well. Often the order arrives one to two months late and it is a large sum of money I have to pay in one go when I wouldn't usually spend like that. [15:58] Question 4: I'm buying Christmas stock, how much stock should I have, ideally in terms of value? Is it as simple as I want to turn over X during November and December so my stock value should be Y?    Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

How often are you reviewing your stock?   Stock management is not a one-and-done type scenario.     I certainly would be able to sit down with you and audit your stock. We would be able to go through it, look at how much you've got, understand what's working, and what's not working, and I could make recommendations on how you could trim that stock back and what you should focus on going forward.   And while this can be incredibly helpful it won’t prevent issues on an ongoing basis.    Moving into a monthly review is a simple, but powerful way to get a vision of what the impact of the month that's just gone by is going to have on your future stock. And then you can use that information to actually take action.    And I'm a big believer in information for action. You want to be able to look at your last month's sales and understand immediately what that means for you going forward.     So today we are talking about my third golden rule of stock management - making stock management a monthly review process and what steps you need to take to accomplish it.    If this all sounds very interesting, but you know, for a fact, you will just not have the time to do it, then I do encourage you to join the waiting list for my new service, which will be launching later this year. I am going to be able to work with you to manage your stock better. Join the waiting list here: https://futureretail.lpages.co/feel-good-business/   Let’s Dive In:   [00:00] My third Golden Rule of Stock Management: Make stock management an ongoing process in your store [03:21] Why stock management is not a one-and-done activity for your store [04:08] What activities are included in a monthly stock management review [07:08] Examples of what can happen when you are actively managing your stock plan [08:15] Questions to ask yourself on an ongoing basis about your stock plan [14:40] The Three Golden Rules of Stock Management  [16:43] Final thoughts and my new service   Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

How well are you managing the most valuable asset in your business?    In other words, your stock. The chances are, if you are a product business owner, whether that is an e-commerce brand or an independent retailer, then the majority of the financial value of your business is tied up in your stock. And my question to you is how well are you managing that asset?  In the last episode asked you, do you have a cashflow problem or a stock management problem. And I suggested that you have a stock plan to determine the answer. Once you have your stock plan, the its time to dive a little deeper. Today I want to talk about my second golden rule of stock management. And that is be really clear about what's selling and being productive in your business versus what isn't selling and is sucking up all of your cash. If this all sounds very interesting, but you know, for a fact, you will just not have the time to do it, then I do encourage you to join the waiting list for my new service, which will be launching later this year. I am going to be able to work with you to manage your stock better. Join the waiting list here: https://futureretail.lpages.co/feel-good-business/ Let’s Dive In: [0:00] The Golden Rules of Stock Management Recap [02:46] The Second Golden Rule of Stock Management - You need to know which stock is selling and which is not [03:14] A stock plan is a good place to start, but it won't tell you the full story...it has a major flaw [04:55] We fix that flaw by looking at the tail. [07:25] Knowing what product is selling and what is not has other benefits to your business that will put you ahead of most retailers [10:29] Making a stock plan by product type helps you understand even more [12:14] If creating a stock plan by product type is overwhelming - then try a stock-to-sales ratio [14:35] This is what you should be doing to start getting control of your stock [16:22] Do you need this but find it overwhelming? Then learn more about my newest service Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Is your cash flow problem really a stock management problem?   The reason I asked this question is because recently when I ran the Retail ROAR summit, I asked everyone who signed up what their biggest issues were. And the biggest issue that came up, particularly in people with a six-figure (or more) businesses,  was their cash flow and people were talking about issues that they were having managing it.   This happens to be an area that I love to geek out about so I wanted to share my experience from the retail industry to explore how improper stock management can lead to significant cash flow challenges. And to that end I have three golden rules for stock management that I want to share with you over the next three episodes.   Today is Golden Rule Number One - have a stock management plan. We dive deeper into why this is so important to start with and I will give you some tips on how to accomplish this.    And if you are looking to get some help with managing your stock register to get more information about my latest service at https://futureretail.lpages.co/feel-good-business/   Let’s Dive In:   [00:00] Introducing The Golden Rules of Stock Management [02:0]3 Do you have a cash flow problem or do you have a stock management problem? [07:56] Why I understand so much about stock management.  [10:18] How Tame Your Tiger will help your stock management [12:43] Golden Rule of Stock Management #1 - Have a Stock Plan [18:05] Coming Up Next - What is driving your sales?   Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

In this episode of the Resilient Retail Game Plan, I’m talking with Tamsin Rennie, founder of Monroe Creative, about the critical balance between aesthetic appeal and functional performance of websites for product-based businesses.    We discuss common mistakes businesses make when DIYing their websites, the significance of professional branding and web design, and how to strategically appeal to your specific customers. We also cover practical tips for improving website functionality, the importance of SEO, and making sites user-friendly and accessible.    Tamsin emphasizes the value of cohesive and strategic branding in conjunction with a well-designed, functional website to enhance business success.   [01:47] Welcome Tamsin! Tell us a bit more about your business [02:22] Tamsin shares about her experience with her own product businesses [07:25] How important is it for a website to really have the right look for the brand? [09:02] Can you talk me through what the process might look like to create a specific appeal for a very specific customer? [11:09] What kinds of mistakes does Tamsin see shops make when they DIY their website? [17:16] The relationship between branding and web design [22:27] How to learn more about Tamsin   Get the full show notes on our website at https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast-episode/a-retail-owners-guide-to-effective-branding-and-website-design-with-tamsin-rennie/   Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Have you used Google Shopping in your business? Maybe you've given it a go, but you're not really sure if you're getting the best results. Or you've taken a look and it just all seems too complicated.    Today I’m joined by Sara Jones. She is the founder of the online retail Academy and she's a specialist in Google Shopping Ads. She's going to be talking to us about the difference between Google Shopping Ads and Meta Ads, how to set it up and how to get the best results for your business.   Let’s dive in! [00:00] Diving into Google Shopping Ads with Sara Jones [01:39] Welcome Sara Jones! Founder of the Online Retail Academy [02:04] What is the difference between advertising on social media versus Google advertising? [06:08] What is the difference between sponsored listings and shopping images in Google? [07:52] Are there specific types of businesses that are eligible to run Google Shopping? [10:07 ]What do retailers need to have to get started with Google Shopping Ads? [14:10] What are some of the nice to have things that make it more likely to succeed? [18:37] Let's talk about keyword research [22:49] What kind of budget do people need to be thinking about for this kind of shopping ad? [27:11] Will Google Shopping Ads see the same shift in cost as we've seen in the social media sites? [29:07] Where can you learn more about Sara and the Online Retail Academy    Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Being in the retail business today has been described to me as standing on one side of the Grand Canyon and being able to see the other side, but having no idea how to get across.    You are an ambitious, focused business owner who has big plans, and big dreams for their businesses, but you just can’t see how to bridge the gap between where you are today and where you want to be.    So today  I'm going to be sharing with you some of the behaviors and actions that I've seen small business owners take that keep them stuck in the business they have today.   Then I'm going to be sharing with you four golden rules that will help you build a business that not only looks good, but feels good too!   And if you're somebody who is thinking “Yes, okay, Catherine, I've got it I want to get to the heart of my business!” Then I am going to be launching something this year that will help you if you want to get the foundations right in your business but you don't have the time. If you want to learn more you can sign up to register your interest and then you'll be the first to know about my new service. [0:00] Welcome! [04:03] Creating a business that not only looks good but feels good too. [08:41] Four habits that are keeping you from the business you desire [09:53] Habit #1: You're Always Talking About the Weather (you blame external factors for what was happening internally) [13:15] Habit #2: Believing success is linear and that there is a finish line. [17:28] Habit #3: You are being distracted by somebody else's idea of success. [20:36] Habit #4: You are eating too many donuts (spending lots of time and money on things that don't make a difference while neglecting those that do.). [23:56] Four Golden Rules that will Help you Build a Business You Love [24:04] Golden Rule #1: Radical Responsibility: taking full responsibility and full ownership for everything that happens in your business. [25:58] Golden Rule #2: Celebrating that there is only one you.  [27:46] Golden Rule #3: Always Eat Your Vegetables: Focus on the things that are not super sexy or exciting from an external perspective but will 100% help you grow your business. [29:56] Golden Rule #4: Resilience on Repeat Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Maybe you've been wondering, will my customers buy this? Will they like this new product line I'm developing or purchasing? Or what, quite simply, do my customers want to see from me?   We often get told that we need to talk to our customers to understand them. It's advice I've certainly given out a lot in my lifetime, for sure.  But what do we actually say to them? How do we even figure that out? And how do we get people to share information with us that is genuine?    How many times have you maybe asked people, do you like this? And they've all said yes. And then nobody bought it.    If that sounds familiar or if you've ever wondered how best to get information out of customers and satisfy that curiosity, then you want to listen to today's episode.    I'm joined by Katie Tucker. She is an author and a market research expert  and her book, "Do penguins eat peaches?" Is an absolutely phenomenal practical guide for small business owners when it comes to answering that all-important question, which is what do my customers want?   And another important question, are they prepared to buy it from me?   Let’s find out!   [02:36] Welcome Katie Tucker, business consultant and author of Do Penguins Eat Peaches? [04:24] How did Katie get involved in customer research? [05:50] One of the biggest problems that businesses have is knowing how to structure productive conversations with their customers. Here are some tips to make it better. [08:55] What are some of the best ways to learn what our customers want? Here’s a hint, don’t ask them what they want, discover their behaviors instead. [11:14] Why you should avoid focus groups and what to do instead. [15:22]How can you truly validate a new product idea? [22:29] What do you do when your vision as a business owner doesn't match the needs of the customer? [28:45] How to connect with Katie Connect with Katie Tucker: Sign up for her newsletter - www.productjungle.co.uk   Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Sales - without it, we don’t have a business, just an expensive hobby.  And yet, for many of us, when it comes to thinking about selling our products or services, or promoting our businesses to the world, it suddenly feels very difficult.     One of the people I come back to time and time again when it comes to getting clear about selling on social media is Sara Dalrymple.  I can’t actually remember how I first came across Sara, but we’ve been chatting on Instagram for years, and I’ve invited her into my membership on more than one occasion to share her pearls of wisdom about selling on social media.   If you want a masterclass on how to promote your business regularly and joyfully, go check out @saleswithsara on Instagram and see how Sara shows up day after day to share her message.   So when Sara announced she was publishing a book on sales, ‘More Sales, Please’ (with the same publisher as my book Tame Your Tiger), I knew I had to get her onto the podcast to tell us all about it.    Today’s episode provides practical advice on making the sales process simpler and more approachable for small business owners, aiming to boost sales and customer satisfaction.   Sara shares valuable insights on approaching sales with clarity, confidence, and ease, emphasizing the importance of selling in a way that feels natural and aligned with one's personality.    We talk about overcoming common sales myths, the effectiveness of listening to customers, and the crucial role of energy and enthusiasm in connecting with potential buyers.   [00:17] Welcome Sara Dalrymple, Author of More Sales, Please! [03:20] Sara's message behind her book - We live in a time where anyone can open a business, but we aren't taught about sales and marketing. Most small business owners feel its complicated, Sara wants to prove that its not. [05:31] Is there a way of approaching sales if you are more of an introvert? [07:00] Sara's process to make sales feel more natural  [11:08] What is the difference between selling a product and selling a service? [12:54] Sales aren't about forcing the buyer's choice. It's about creating a space where they are happy to buy. [19:26] Sales can start off as an emotional journey, so we need to set the stage for our buyers with the messages we want them to receive. [24:23] What is the relationship between your passion for your product and [sales? [33:39] How to connect with Sara Dalrymple   Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Today's podcast is a pep talk. And the theme of the pep talk today is that the UK is officially in recession.  So you might think this is an odd theme for a pep talk, but I know that it can feel overwhelming and demotivating when you hear headlines like “ UK officially in a recession after Christmas sales collapse.” It can feel like a very worrying time for a business owner. And we've also had other high-profile bad news recently in the press, for example, the body shop going into administration, which a lot of people are also feeling demotivated about. And so what I wanted to do with this episode is dig in a little bit into the data and the stats behind the headlines, tell you why I think you should be optimistic, and five things to do instead of letting it overwhelm you.  [00:00] It’s time for a Pep Talk [03:00] Let's Define What Recession Means [05:21] Reasons I believe you can be optimistic despite the headlines [07:36] What actually happened to the Body Shop [08:53] Five Things to Do to Beat Feeling Overwhelmed [08:58] Focus on your circle of control. Make your business as good as it can be as opposed to spending that time getting distracted or, demotivated by external factors. [09:49] Keep Your Business Nimble. Now, more than ever, it's important to keep your stock under control, to not have too much of your money tied up in your stock so that you have got some flexibility. [10:36] Understand Your Customers. No matter what the economic environment, no matter what's going on in the world, knowing your customers, talking to them, really understanding them is only going to help you as a business owner. [11:03] Take Action! Make sure that you are thinking about your circle of control, what you can do, to move things on and focusing on that instead of the things that you can't control. [12:05] Get Support. You want to have that environment where you can talk to other people going through the same thing as you so you can share your worries and concerns and get ideas from what other people are doing too. [12:42] Don't Forget to Join Retail ROAR Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Today I want to share three tips on how you can get the most out of the Retail ROAR conference. The conference features a lineup of 10 founders of retail businesses or brands and 9 subject matter experts. To help you prepare to get the most from the conference I share a summary of the diverse range of speakers and their respective topics, which cover various aspects of retail business, including social media, website development, public relations, wholesale success, email strategy, and maintaining work-life balance. The event also features networking opportunities through a pop-up Facebook group. The focus of the conference is to help attendees create a business that not only looks good, but feels good too, helping them feel inspired and ready to succeed in 2024.   Retail ROAR is a FREE online conference taking place from the 29th of February to the 1st of March. Sign up today!  www.retailroar.co.uk   [00:00] Making the most of Retail ROAR [02:44] Tip #1: Check out the lineup of retail founders. Find the stories and experiences that interest you. Mark the date/time in your diary to attend that session. [10:12] Don't miss my opening remarks on how to create a business that not only looks good but feels good too. [10:42] Tip #2: Go back to your goals for the year and identify the experts who can help you move towards that goal. Mark their sessions in your diary. [14:08] Tip #3: Remember to network with other attendees in the Facebook group!   Episode Links: Get Your Free Seat to Retail Roar - The UK's most inspiring FREE retail online summit at www.retailroar.co.uk   Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

In this episode of the Resilient Retail Game Plan, I am talking with coach and facilitator Hayley Watts about effective team management, productivity, and your well-being as a founder. We talk about effectively giving responsibility to your team through an analogy with a 'fried egg', the importance of clarity and setting boundaries in team roles, as well as how best to approach difficult conversations with your staff. We also touched on the importance of looking after your health and well-being during stressful times. Haley Watts helps business owners focus on the work that matters. She helps people grow their businesses while looking after themselves. She gives business owners the confidence that what they are working on is the right thing to help achieve their goals 0:00 Welcome Hayley Watts 02:54 As the team grows, how do founders stay productive? 05:53 What tips does Halyley give to build a team that works together? 09:16 How can founders value the different external viewpoints of new team members? 11:02 As a founder, what can you do to help the team perform at their best levels? 14:05 What should you do when team members are not meeting expectations? 19:31 How to bring your company's values into the recruitment process 21:44 How can founders reduce their overall stress and improve their well-being? 25:44 Get in touch with Hayley Connect with Hayley Watts: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hayley-watts/ Website: www.inspireful.co.uk Episode Links: Get Your Free Seat to Retail Roar - The UK's most inspiring FREE retail online summit at www.retailroar.co.uk Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Today we are celebrating the one-year anniversary of ‘Tame Your Tiger'. I just take a moment to reflect back on the last year and talk a little bit about what it's meant to me and to the business, to have this book out there into the world. I am also excited to announce my upcoming free online summit ‘Retail ROAR’ from February 29 to March 1, featuring an impressive lineup of speakers from the retail industry. [00:00] Introduction and Welcome [00:18] Announcement of the Retail Roar Summit [01:51] Reflecting on the One-Year Anniversary of 'Tame Your Tiger' [03:12] Surprising Benefits from Publishing the Book [05:39] Understanding the Premise of 'Tame Your Tiger' [08:57] The Importance of Stock Management [12:51] The Role of Break-even Analysis in Business [15:06] The Impact of 'Tame Your Tiger' on Business Owners [19:46] Conclusion and Invitation to the Retail Roar Summit Episode Links: Get Your Free Sear to Retal Roar - The UK's most inspiring FREE retail online summit. Get a copy of Tame Your Tiger or Leave a Review Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

In this episode, I got to sit down with Resilient Retail Club member Ruth Sturdy, the founder of Color Chronicles.    Ruth shared her journey after looking for a book that would not only allow her to record memories of her daughter but would bring her daughter into the process as well. When one couldn’t be found, Ruth decided to create it which led to her founding her own business and developing their bestselling product, 'The Book of You'.  As her business grew, she found the freedom to start working on the business (instead of in the business) when she partnered with a fulfillment center. She also realized that it was important to outsource tasks that were not her strengths. Interestingly enough she has been able to demonstrate that you can grow your business and not need a large team!  We talk about the constant need for resilience in managing a small business, handling various challenges and finding solutions. And we talk about how important it is to be able to lean on other business owners in a setting like the Resilient Retail Club.  [01:35] Welcome Ruth Sturdy, Founder of Colour Chronicles!  [07:34] In the digital age. how important does Ruth believe it is to have something physically written down? [08:52] What was Ruth's background before she started the business? [10:19] How has Ruth's business evolved? [11:36] What was the moment that Ruth realized she needed to stop doing everything herself? [12:35] How many fulfillment centers did Ruth look at before finding "the one"? [13:12] Was fulfillment the key to allowing Ruth to grow the business without having a big team? [15:26] How did Ruth know it was time to invest in outside help? [17:16] Why Ruth believes it's important to connect with people in the Club and Mastermind to grow your business [18:1]6 What is the best gift that you could give someone who is just starting their business? [21:35] What's next for Colour Chronicles? [22:16] How to connect with Colour Chronicles Connect with Colour Chronicles Website: https://www.colourchronicles.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colour.chronicles/ Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Do you have a sales plan for 2024? If not, do you know what is holding you back from having a sales goal?  For some, they don't really grasp the importance of having one. They're not familiar with the importance and transformational nature of having a sales goal. And so they don't make the time for it. But if you want your business to be more profitable, if you want to have better cash flow, if you want to pay yourself more from your business and if you want to be able to manage your stock effectively so that it's not just eating up all of the spare cash in your business and leaving none for you, then you need a sales goal. That is crucial and that is very hard to do any of those things without your sales goal. So you need to take the time to set it.  What I wanted to talk to you about today is planning your sales and specifically, we will talk about what is the sales plan, why you need one, and what some of the common reasons you might be holding back from creating one. If you want help setting your sales plan for 2024 I invite you to join my five-day challenge within the Resilient Retail Club. We start the first week in February. If you'd like to join us and you're not a member, head over to resilientretailclub.com and you can get your first month for half price, which means that you get to join the challenge for just 19 pounds.    Let’s dive in: [0:00] How to effectively plan your 2024 Retail Sales Plan [01:50] What is a sales plan? How detailed does it need to be? [04:25] Why do you need to have a sales goal?  [06:50] What might hold you back from having a sales goal?   Join my 5-day Sales Plan Challenge inside of my Membership group (join us today for half off your first month) https://www.resilientretailclub.com/membership/ Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Do you ever find yourself looking at another business and thinking “I wish that my business was like that!” or “I want my business to be like XYZ.” or even “I just wish I could get to this point with my business and then everything will be fine.” You've probably seen on social media retail businesses that've got piles of mailing bags, or maybe they've been established for a long time, or they've had some fabulous collaborations. They are the business owners that are looked up to and envied.  We can have a business that looks fabulous. You've got all these orders coming in. Your team is expanding. You're moving to a larger premises. And from an external perspective, if you're a business looking up at them, it may feel like, wow, they've really got this all sorted out. But what you may find is that these businesses that look like they're feeling fantastic, really don't feel fantastic at all to the business owner. And that is what this episode is all about, exploring this concept of what it takes to make a business feel good. Let’s dive in: [00:00] What it means to create a business that feels good (not just looks good) [05:35] Focus on your bottom line [11:49] Having a strategy and plan to get you away from being reactive and be more proactive [16:50] You control your business not the other way around [19:39] How do you know if you're chasing something that looks good versus something that feels good? [21:18] Focus on the fundamentals of your business before you get distracted by shiny objects [25:01] My recipe for a business that doesn't just look good, but also feels good. Get all of the details on our website at: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast-episode/181-how-to-create-a-business-that-feels-good-not-just-looks-good/ Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

I know that for a lot of people, you're coming off a high from the fourth quarter. And I know it can feel like quite a slap in the face when you go from the biggest months of the year in November and December and then you get into January and it can feel like it's all dropped off a cliff. So first if this is one of your first Christmases or if you know this about your business, I want to remind you that you're not alone.  And secondly, just be aware that there are still reasons people will buy from you in January. And I will share 10 (with a bonus) on today’s episode! [03:58] Reason #1 - January Sales! [08:19] Reason #2 - Redeem Holiday Gift Cards [09:20] Reason #3 - Something New! [12:26] Reason #4 - Limited Editions or Exclusive Collections [12:59] Reason #5 - Get Organized [14:40] Reason #6 - Veganuary / Dry January [16:14] Reason #7- Health, Well-Being and Fitness [17:43] Reason #8 - Holidays  [19:39] Reason #9 - Cold Weather / Being Cozy [21:04] Reason #10- Wedding Planning and Prep [22:15] Bonus Idea! Customer Loyalty  [23:03] Recap - 10 reasons why people will buy from you in the month of January Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Last summer I launched a mastermind for product-based business owners and it has hands down been the most exciting that I’ve done in my business.     The people in the mastermind have businesses of various sizes. Some are very large, and very well established. Some are earlier on in their journey or at different stages. But the thing that unites every single one of those product business owners is their ambition and their commitment to their business. And they have taught me a huge amount about what it means to be a successful driven product business owner in 2024. And on today’s episode, I want to share with you the 7 lessons that they have taught me! [00:00] 7 Lessons I Learned from My Mastermind Members [03:52] Lesson 1: Decision fatigue is real. Get support making decisions in your business! [06:02] Lesson 2: Leverage Big Bussiness Tools to be More Successful [09:00] Lesson 3: Working with a Mindset Coach is so Impactful to Your Business [11:54] Lesson 4: It helps to talk with other people who understand what you are going through [14:50] Lesson 5: Pre-planning your year is the best way to beat overwhelm in your busy season [17:08] Lesson 6: Spreadsheets can be habit-forming and are the key to your happiness as a retail business owner [19:52] Lesson 7: There is no magic formula. But if you make quick decisions, take action, see the results, and try new things you will see change. [24:34] The mastermind is open! Learn more! The next Cohort of the Mastermind Starts January 22nd Learn more and book your exploratory call here: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/retail-business-mentoring/ Book a call: https://calendly.com/resilientretail/product-business-mastermind-discovery-call?month=2024-01 Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Do you want to scale your business? In other words, do you want to grow it further than where it is now? Or maybe you're in the process of growing it and you want to feel more comfortable and proactive with what's happening to you and to your business.    So what I wanted to dig into today, is to help you understand that if you're in this process of growing your business there are five key questions that you need to ask yourself to make sure that you're going in the right direction.  [00:00] What does it mean to scale your business? [04:40] Question 1: Are you built on firm foundations? [06:29] Question 2: Who are you trying to reach? [09:58] Question 3: What makes you special? What is your unique selling proposition or USP?  [11:58] Question 4: Do you have the systems? Are you ready to grow?  How much of your business lives in your head? [16:26] Question 5: Are you prepared for the fact that there will be challenges along the way?   Get Access to My Upcoming Session: Go from six-figure years to six-figure months. https://futureretail.lpages.co/from-six-figure-years-to-six-figure-months/   Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

In this episode, we will discuss four key retail trends for 2024: sustainability and green fatigue, the rise of artificial intelligence, social commerce, and personalized communication.  As a retailer, you need to embrace these trends and be proactive so you can ensure that your business continues to grow and continues to thrive in the coming year.   [0:00] What trends will be reshaping the retail industry in 2024 [01:49] Why it's so important for product business owners to have an idea of what's going on in their industry [11:18] How did I come up with these trends? [11:59] What has been happening in the retail industry [12:58] Trend 1: Sustainability, navigating green fatigue [15:46] Trend 2: The rise of artificial intelligence [19:24] Trend 3: Social Commerce [25:12] Trend 4: Personalized Communication Read the full report 4 Biggest Retail Trends for 2024 Don’t forget - use the code: 10podcast to get £10 off your first month when joining The Resilient Retail Club.  Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

In episode 176 of the Resilient Retail Game Plan, host Catherine Erdly, founder of the Resilient Retail Club, engages in an insightful discussion with Lindsay Schneider, founder of the self-tanning brand, Get Into the Limelight.    We discuss the trials and triumphs of building a brand, focusing on Lindsay's experience in product sourcing, the process of creating a quality self-tanner, and the marketing strategies that worked best for her. Lindsay emphasizes the importance of influencer marketing, discussing strategies for selecting influencers that have a genuine love for the product and authenticity in their promotion. She also talks about the importance of taking calculated risks in business growth, detailing how outsourcing helped her business operations grow.  Lindsay's story provides key insights into running a successful product business and using influencer marketing effectively. [00:00] Welcome Linday Schneider [01:58] Lindsay Schneider Business Backstory [04:49] When Linsday picked the wrong product she discovered she needed to make a shift in her business [06:54] Lindsay talks about the process of developing a skin care product. [09:22] Did Lindsay need to shift how she marketed her product after shifting her business? [10:21] Navigating the changes in influencer marketing [11:38] What has been the biggest change that propelled her business forward? [13:41] How do you know when you’re ready to hand off control in your business? [17:13] What advice does Linsay have for choosing influencer partnerships? [25:27] What's coming for Lindsay in 2024? [26:34] Learn More about Lindsay   Get all of the resources here: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast-episode/power-of-influencer-marketing-in-retail-with-lindsay-schneider/ Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

In this episode of the Resilient Retail Game Plan, we are discussing the art and skill of negotiation in the retail business with Simon Duncan. We delve into why negotiation is a crucial skill for business owners, how to determine what the other party wants in a negotiation and the importance of planning before entering a negotiation situation.    The discussion emphasizes the significance of understanding what you are trying to achieve, knowing the current facts of the business relationship, being aware of the balance of power, and getting into your counterpart's mindset. Throughout the conversation, we use practical examples to illustrate how these negotiation tactics have been successfully applied in real-life scenarios. There is a lot to take away from this conversation - always remember that if you don’t ask you won’t get! This is a fascinating interview. Tune in to learn: [0:00] Welcome Simon Duncan! [03:44] Why is negotiation such an important skill for retail business owners to have? [05:50] What are some of the key areas that retail owners don't negotiate (and should!)? And where would negotiating help help the bottom line the most? [09:19] What are some of the key steps that owners should take before entering into a negotiation situation? [14:41] What can be negotiated? [23:47] How do you figure out what people want before you negotiate with them? [27:01] These are the key skills needed to negotiate  [28:36] Can negotiating strengthen your relationships? [29:52]Find out more about Simon Duncan   Connect with Simon Duncan Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simon-duncan-9b491311 Get 10 pounds off your first month of Resilient Retail Club using code 10podcast.  Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Have you thought about what it would take to scale your e-commerce business to $5 million or more? What about getting an investment to grow your business further?    In today’s episode, I spoke with Yoni Kozminski, an e-commerce scaling expert.. Yoni shares his expertise on scaling e-commerce businesses and the process of working with founders when investing in their businesses to help them grow. To achieve growth, Yoni emphasizes the importance of streamlining operations and building scalable systems. This involves documenting processes, defining roles, and leveraging technology to create efficient workflows. By doing so, businesses can free up the business owner from day-to-day operations and focus on high-impact tasks. Yoni also walks us through his process of investing in e-commerce businesses to help them scale toward an exit strategy.  This is a fascinating interview. Tune in to learn: [00:00] Welcome Yoni Kozminski [04:23] What would you say needs to be in place before an e-commerce business starts to scale?  [06:29] The mindset shift business owners need to have in order to scale [10:33] Does scaling equal systems? [12:43] What does it mean to exit an e-commerce business? [14:16] What is it that investors are looking for in a business before they invest? [25:56] When it comes to scaling quickly what levers do you need to pull? Connect with Yoni Kozminski https://www.southcol.co/media https://www.linkedin.com/in/yonkoz/ Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

We know that starting a business is not for the faint of heart. Even those who are full of confidence can sometimes be plagued with the fear of losing everything we have built.    In today's episode, I spoke with the inspiring Toks Aruoture, owner of the Baby Cot Shop. Toks has an incredible journey to share with us. After losing her store in the US she returned to the UK and reopened her business online with a goal to have a physical location on the high street. But despite achieving that dream, she still faced fear as she grew her business. Along the way, she learned that having a goal doesn't define the end of the journey - but that life is a constant evolution.   Toks believes that she is bigger than her business and that her value extends far beyond the products she sells. She knows that the fear of losing a business can be more damaging than the actual situation, and she credits her faith and the support of her friends for helping her through the tough times. Throughout this episode, we'll dive deep into Toks' journey and explore the mindset shifts and strategies she used to bounce back from the loss of her business. From determination and faith to journaling and seeking outside perspectives, Toks has valuable insights to share with all of us. [00:00] Welcome Toks Aruoture [02:49] How did Toks get into luxury interior design for babies and children [05:14] How did Toks rebuild after the loss of her business in the US [08:16] What was Toks mindset has she faced the fear of losing her business a second time. [12:18] There are two ways to face fear in business. We offer some suggestions to not let fear paralyze you.  [16:01] A journaling practice to help you focus on what is fact and how to handle assumptions that can affect your mindset [24:35] How does Toks manage negative self-talk? Connect with Toks Aruoture www.thebabycotshop.com www.toksaruoture.com Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

It’s no secret that the fashion industry is problematic. From materials to manufacturing to the retail models themselves, a lot of damage is wrought upon the people producing the clothes as well as the planet. As the world slowly wakes up to the long-term effects of these business practices, it’s encouraging to see people act more responsibly, taking steps to produce ’slow fashion’ centred around sustainability - putting people and the planet first. In episode 172 of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I speak to Emma and Leanne of Rose's Wardrobe. A vintage-inspired clothing and accessories brand based in Langholm, South Scotland, Rose's Wardrobe produces bespoke, made-to-order, made-to-measure garments using local, vintage or deadstock fabrics and planet-conscious trims and haberdashery. In this podcast, we discuss creating an experience that’s about more than just picking something off a shelf, the joy of watching your employees and teams grow with your business and the importance of getting young people interested in traditional skills and industries. We also talk about the future of fashion trends, the beauty of being bespoke and working with your hands in a digital age.  Check out Emma and Leanne’s gorgeous garments at: www.roseswardrobe.co.uk and the Creation Mill at: www.creationmill.org And connect with them: https://www.instagram.com/roseswardrobe_vintage https://www.facebook.com/roseswardrobevintage/ https://www.instagram.com/creation.mill.cic.langholm https://www.facebook.com/creationmill Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Originating in the USA as a post-thanksgiving sales event, Black Friday has, over the last decade, become a major, and sometimes divisive shopping event in the UK retail calendar - and based on last year's figures it’s only getting bigger.  As a small business, you shouldn’t feel obligated to take part in a sales event that’s traditionally a mainstay of larger retailers, but you also shouldn’t feel guilty or ashamed to get in on the action. Either way, it’s important to understand Black Friday’s effect on consumer behaviour, the scepticism buyers might have around certain deals and the pros and cons of taking or not taking part for your business.    In this podcast, I discuss the importance of avoiding knee-jerk promotions, why Black Friday doesn’t always have to be about deep discounts, as well as how small businesses can create excitement through exclusivity. We’ll also talk about making sure you take extra-special care of your email subscribers, why you don’t need to be shy about promoting your promotions and to not forget that although they look like they’re for the customers, that any promotions you create should really be designed to benefit you and your business. Don’t forget - use the code: 10podcast to get £10 off your first month when joining The Resilient Retail Club. Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

TikTok is a relative newcomer in the world of social media, but it’s been making serious waves since it entered the fray back in 2016. Hugely popular with the younger demographics, the platform has evolved and changed a lot since its inception, and with tools such as ‘TikTok Shop’ I’d suggest that it’s worth taking the time to consider whether setting up an account might be beneficial for your business.  In episode 170 of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I speak to TikTok consultant Penny Walker, who helps lifestyle and creative businesses embrace new social trends and stand out in the market. She works with founders to produce engaging short-form content in the pursuit of new customers, bigger audiences and a steady supply of leads and sales. In this podcast, we talk about joining in with seasonal trends, repurposing content from other platforms and how having a live strategy can be brilliant for your growth. We also discuss the importance of testing and learning, making connecting and how to avoid content creation becoming burdensome.  Check out Penny’s services at: www.barbrusa.com And connect with Penny and Barbrusa at: https://www.tiktok.com/@barbrusa_social https://www.instagram.com/barbrusa_social/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/penelopewalkerbrusarosco/ Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Video has become a commonplace and indispensable tool for small business owners. My often repeated adage that ‘people buy from people’ is exemplified perfectly by the amazing engagement and communities we see grow around brands and founders when they share the realities of their business, whether that’s through behind-the-scenes videos or product showcases.  We’re all familiar with the various forms of social media short-form content such as TikTok skits and Instagram Reels, but it seems that not many of us have dipped our toes into, and reaped the benefits, of producing longer-form content. So, in episode 169 of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I speak to the “King Of Video” Matthew Hughes, who helps small business owners and entrepreneurs strategically launch and grow their YouTube channels. In this podcast, we discuss the power of playlists, repurposing content from long-form productions and putting your USP first. We also talk about the importance of being committed to consistent content creation and how leveraging people’s curiosity is key to attracting customers.  Check out Matt’s services at: https://kingofvideo.co.uk/ and https://links.kingofvideo.co.uk/ And connect with him at: https://www.instagram.com/realkingofvideo/ Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

If you’re feeling the pinch at the moment, trust me, you’re not alone. September through October are traditionally a major pinch point for retail - when you have lots of money going out as you stock up for the festive season, without any of the accompanying sales materialising until later in the year, cashflow can start to dry up and things can start to feel really tough. This isn’t just a small product business phenomenon - huge retailers are well known to take out loans or to secure lines of credit to get them through this challenging time of year, an option you could take if it came to it, but in episode 168 of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I want to help you hold your nerve, to examine your numbers and get that cash flowing again. In this podcast, we’ll look at the three main areas that impact cash flow, setting a sales plan and making use of our sales history. We’ll also discuss the issues of holding too much stock throughout the calendar year and how a good stock plan can help you predict the future of your business. Don’t forget - use the code: 10podcast to get £10 off your first month when joining The Resilient Retail Club. Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

In episode 167 of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I speak to Caroline Gogolak, CEO and founder of the New York fashion brand Saint Art. Producing effortless but luxe street-style sportswear, Caroline has seen great success with Saint Art by implementing an effective ‘test-and-learn’ approach and making clever business decisions that help address issues of overproduction and waste in the fashion industry. In this podcast, we discuss the power of wholesale in increasing your brand awareness and getting your products in front of people. We also talk about identifying which marketing structures will help you reach profitability sooner, the baked-in benefits of a product-first mindset and why it’s important to start small and grow slowly. Check out the amazing apparel at Saint Art here: https://saintartnewyork.com/ And connect with Caroline and Saint Art here: https://www.instagram.com/saintartnewyork/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/caroline-gogolak-97949542/ Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

The retail landscape is constantly evolving. From the continued growth in online shopping, to the collapse of the department store model, as well as the effect of lockdowns on the high street, we’ve seen a lot of change in the last few years, especially when it comes to physical stores. When the need to buy a product is no longer enough reason to go to an actual store, how can brands ensure that they stay connected with their consumers? In episode 166 of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I speak with Katie Mitchell, Managing Director of Seen Studios, a creative retail design and production agency, about re-evaluating the full consumer journey and how to create synergy between online and offline activity through human connection. In this podcast, we talk about what approach to take when bringing online brands offline, building flexibility into your commercial space and injecting some drama and theatre into experiential experience of shopping. We also discuss the importance of staying true to who you are as a brand and how building communities through loyalty and trust looks to be the future of the retail.   Check out Seen Studios at: https://seen-studios.com/  And connect with Katie and Seen at: https://www.instagram.com/seenstudios_ https://www.linkedin.com/company/seen-studios/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/katie-mitchell-a1b30221/ Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Paid Advertising can be incredibly effective for small product businesses. We’ve all undoubtedly seen some great sales success stories built off the back of social media-based ad campaigns, but paid advertising can be a bit of a confusing subject as well as a technical minefield - how do you know when you’re ready to jump into the Ads Manager, and if you’re already using the platform, how do you best optimise it for consistent results? In episode 165 of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I speak to the founder of Socially Sound, Melanie Eilers, who helps founder-led, purpose-driven e-commerce brands scale up sales through strategic Facebook and Instagram ads. Melanie shares her top five tips for paid advertising and explains why it’s imperative to lay some solid foundations before you start ploughing too much time, energy and money into the advertising platform. In this podcast, we discuss the need to expect and embrace change when it comes to the online advertising landscape, as well as what to expect in the near future. We also discuss the ever-present importance of email marketing and creating consistent touch-points throughout your customer journey. We also talk about making the most of your data and the importance of exercising patience if you want to see good, long-term results. Check out Melanie’s services over at: https://www.sociallysound.co.uk Connect with her at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melanieeilers https://www.instagram.com/socially_sound/ To access the Socially Sound quizzes mentioned in this episode head to:  (for those already running ads ) https://sociallysound.scoreapp.com (for those thinking about getting started with ads) https://sociallysoundadready.scoreapp.com Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Having run the Resilient Retail Club for the last three years, I’ve seen first-hand the transformative power being part of a community can have on not only your business but on your life. Fostering connections and relationships and sharing in experiences is such a crucial part of what it means to be human - in episode 164 of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I cover five key ways that being part of a community can help transform your business and, quite possibly, enrich your life. In this podcast, I talk about the psychological importance of being understood and the value of sharing stories. We’ll discuss complimentary and non-competitive collaboration and how expanding our horizons opens us up to new possibilities. We’ll also talk about the many resources, from information to inspiration, that being part of a community affords you and how crucial it is to receive emotional support and encouragement from your peers. Don’t forget - use the code: 10podcast to get £10 off your first month when joining The Resilient Retail Club. Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

There are many reasons someone starts a business, but a pattern I often see with founders in the Resilient Retail Club is a combination of dissatisfaction with the working world and a desire to make a more significant impact, and today's guest is no exception! In episode 163 of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I speak to Lucy Jeffrey, founder of bamboo sock brand, Bare Kind. Having started her business as a side hustle five years ago, Bare Kind is now partnered with over thirty charities and donates a percentage of its profits to protect endangered animals. With little to no prior experience in retail, Lucy has worked hard to build an amazing business, and shares some of her major successes (and advice), especially when it comes to wholesale. In this podcast, we discuss balancing demand with manufacturing, the value of merchandising, and holding your nerve as a seasonal business. We also talk about the importance of taking a step back, consistently reviewing the state of your business and the benefits of learning more about how your products are made. Check out Lucy’s beautiful socks at https://barekind.co.uk/ Connect with Lucy at https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucy-jeffrey/ and check out Lucy’s e-commerce content over at: https://candidfounders.com/ Join the Christmas Sales Summit and get half off your first month in the Club - ENDS 17th September Midnight: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/membership/ This summit will get you thinking strategically about the upcoming Christmas season, and give you the strategies, tools and support to grow your sales. It includes: Expert workshops Strategy planning sessions Tools and templates for growth Co-working hours Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

The importance of Christmas for small product businesses can not be underestimated. Some businesses can end up taking half, and I’ve seen in some circumstances, even three-quarters of their annual sales in the fourth quarter! This sales period, and a highly competitive one at that, really has the potential to make or break your year. So if you want to achieve your Xmas sales goals and finish the year on a high, it’s imperative that you formulate a strategy and create and follow a robust and rigorous plan.  In this podcast, we’ll discuss producing clear objectives with SMART goals and setting directions that make you, not others, happy. We’ll also be looking at what the past performance of our business can tell us about what decisions we should be making. We’ll cover tips for keeping things on track when things get crazy and staying on top of your stock management. We’ll also be thinking about our target audiences, how our ideal customer's qualities might differ at Christmas, and what form your marketing and promotional strategies might take from channel to channel at this time of year. Join the Christmas Sales Summit and get half off your first month in the Club - ENDS 17th September Midnight: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/membership/ This summit will get you thinking strategically about the upcoming Christmas season, and give you the strategies, tools and support to grow your sales. It includes: Expert workshops Strategy planning sessions Tools and templates for growth Co-working hours Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

If you’re a long-time listener to this podcast or have worked with me, you’ll know I love to start talking about Christmas early - from around May actually! With the holiday season but a few months away, I’ve been digging into lots of research around what we can expect for retail at Christmas this year.  Xmas 2022 disproved a lot of predictions and exceeded many businesses' expectations, but with the bruising combination of high inflation, rising mortgage rates and the cost of living crisis customer spending is likely to be lower this year. It might sound all doom and gloom, but there are still some bright spots to focus on. In this podcast, we’ll discuss what customers want and how they’ll be shopping. We’ll talk about The Lipstick Effect, shaping consumer behaviour through discounts and the increasing importance of sustainability credentials. We’ll also discuss the ebb and flow of overall online purchasing, payment plans and mitigating delivery disasters.   Don’t forget - my Product Business Mastermind is kicking off this September!   Book a free discovery call now to find out more about this high-performance 6-month program, combining award-winning business mentoring with the magic of masterminding, for ambitious small business owners. https://www.resilientretailclub.com/retail-business-mentoring/ Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

If you’re running a small product business and are feeling a bit squeezed for cash flow right now, you’re not alone! August and September are traditional, well-established pinch points in the retail industry calendar. So, whether you’re coming up a bit short due to putting in your orders for this coming Christmas or perhaps an unexpected bill has landed on your desk, in episode 160 of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I want to give you my top tips for what to do if you need money quick. In this podcast, we’ll discuss dividing out your stock into three categories, with a different objective for each. We’ll discuss targeted discounting and why I believe it’s less brand-damaging than creating blanket offers, and we’ll also talk about why reaching out, 1-on-1, to your best customers might be the quickest and most dependable route to a sale. Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

From decreased footfall to financial constraints, retailers across the board continue to be hit hard in the wake of not only the Covid-19 Pandemic but the ongoing cost of living crisis as well. It is tough out there - it may even be one of the most challenging periods experienced in retail history, but as smaller independent businesses, we have something to be grateful for that the industry giants don’t - the ability to be agile, adapt, and pivot quickly.  In episode 159 of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I speak to Charlotte Broadbent from the revolutionary global wholesale marketplace for independent retailers, Faire. Providing retailers with opportunities to try new things in low-risk ways, Faire is helping fuel the growth of independent businesses and entrepreneurs everywhere.  In today’s podcast, Charlotte shares her insights into the current state of the retail industry and the challenges faced by both major and independent retailers. We talk about the power of experiential retail and the importance of community connection. We also discuss the costs and benefits of trade shows post-lockdown and the steadfastness of value-based buying. Shop wholesale online from over 100,000 brands at: https://www.faire.com/ And Connect with Faire at: https://www.instagram.com/faire_wholesale/ To check out Corinne’s shop as mentioned in this episode head to: https://hackneyessentials.com/ Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

When you start and run your own business it’s often not long before you realise you might need an extra pair of hands. Whether you’re struggling with picking and packing in those busy sales seasons or fumbling through your finances, it’s important to recognise how best to support the growth of your business. In episode 158 of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I speak to Helen Dukes, founder of music-inspired clothing brand Disko Kids, about how she’s scaled up her business by growing a solid and supportive team through carefully focussing on training and on the needs of her staff as they change and evolve in tandem with the needs of the business. In this podcast, we discuss shifting our business focus naturally in response to demand, the importance of word of mouth and balancing happiness with growth. We also talk about the need to set up systems, to not forgo admin and organisation in favour of the shinier things and the importance of taking a step back and relinquishing some control to see what needs your attention in your business. To support Helen in her charity run for the Bowelbabe Fund: https://fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/page/helens-race-for-life-327470568 Check out Helen’s awesome products at: https://www.diskokids.co.uk/ And connect with her and Disko Kids at: https://www.instagram.com/diskokids Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

In episode 157 of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I speak to Cally Russell, CEO and Co-founder of waste-free clothing brand ‘This Is Unfolded’, supporting children’s education and paying garment workers better wages.  Cally inarguably posits that fast fashion and current retail models are killing the planet - but that they also create a bland customer experience. To change a global business model that is fundamentally flawed, Cally believes we need to create brands and production processes that are driven by communities and in collaboration with their customers, which is exactly what he’s doing with ‘This Is Unfolded’. In this podcast, we discuss educating people about the journey their purchases go on, the importance of identifying your best growth channels and extending the number of dopamine hits your customer experiences post-purchase. We also talk about how scaling bigger can take you away from your core customers as well as rethinking sustainability and circularity when it comes to the lifecycle of a product. Check out the amazing community-driven fashion range at: https://thisisunfolded.com/ Connect with Cally and ‘This Is Unfolded’ at: https://www.facebook.com/thisisunfolded https://www.instagram.com/thisisunfolded https://www.linkedin.com/in/callyrussell Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

  Trying to increase a customer's average spend or basket size can be tricky. With a lot of focus across e-commerce on the pre-purchase experience, brands can easily fall into the trap of frustrating, and even losing their prospective customers with annoying pop-ups and offers that potentially cheapen their brand. In episode 156 of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I speak to Ruth Even Haim, the COO & co-founder of ‘ReConvert’, the number-one upselling app on Shopify, about how focusing on the post-purchase experience has enabled her business to help merchants generate millions of extra revenue in sales. In this podcast we discuss the best practices for upselling, covering such areas as discounts and exclusivity. We talk about the shipping and profitability benefits of a successful upselling strategy, and we also discuss the importance of tailoring your post-purchase offering to your audience and not overwhelming your customers. Check out the ‘Reconvert’ app here: https://www.reconvert.io/ Connect with the brand at: https://www.instagram.com/reconvert.io/ Struggling with low-profit margins? Fix it today with Reconvert’s FREE Conversion Rate optimisation guide:: https://www.reconvert.io/shopify-conversion-rate Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

No business has shaped online retail, perhaps all retail, the way that Amazon has. Since its founding in 1994, the e-commerce giant has grown to become one of the most influential economic and cultural forces in the world, forever changing the way that we shop and sell.  The idea then of trying to build a business on such a huge, busy and complex marketplace might seem a bit daunting at first, but in episode 155 of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I speak to Amazon expert Emily Johnson who shares how she created her own semi-passive brand on the e-commerce platform and what you need to know to make the best go of setting up shop. In this podcast, we discuss the importance of research, the benefits of getting to grips with optimisation and marketing, and what different business models Amazon has to offer. We also talk about sales platform glitches, troubleshooting your product listings and why it’s worth looking into brand protection in the forms of design registrations and trademarking. Check out Emily’s Amazon coaching services at: https://www.hello-dream.co.uk/ And connect with her at: instagram.com/dreamers_should/ Don’t forget - use the code: 10podcast to get £10 off your first month when joining The Resilient Retail Club. Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

When it comes to retail it’s never too early to start talking about Christmas! In fact, if you’ve left it this long without considering the big day you might even be too late to take advantage of some of the best ways to prepare your business for the dependably lucrative Q4 sales period. The more work you can do now to get you and your business ready for the festive season, the smoother it’ll all go - you don’t want to be scrambling for stock and pleading for PR in November and December, you want to be selling your products and delighting your customers. In today’s episode of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I share seven ways you can use this summer to better prepare for Christmas 2023. We’ll begin by looking back at 2022, identifying patterns and peaks and producing a sales plan. We’ll talk about setting out your hero products ahead of time and getting savvy with your stock levels. We’ll also discuss taking part in seasonal events, pitching products to gift guides and managing your staffing situation during the busiest selling season. How ready are you for Christmas 2023? Take our quiz and get valuable feedback: resilientretailclub.com/christmasquiz Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

In episode 153 of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I speak to Sabira Silcock of sustainable jewellery brand, SKEN Studios. Handmade in Manchester, Sabira produces fun and playful jewellery with personality, as well as running workshops and creating more bespoke pieces. Today she shares her journey from designer/maker to brand-builder, the story behind the rapid growth of SKEN Studios and the lessons she’s learnt along the way. Throughout the course of our conversation, we discuss operating on a budget, trading skills and services and allowing your product design to be informed by how you want to run your business. We also talk about baking sustainability into your brand values, the benefits of a made-to-order business model regarding cash flow and production timelines and being resilient in the face of equipment meltdowns and postal problems. Check out Sabira’s beautiful jewellery at: www.skenstudios.com And connect with her and SKEN at: www.instagram.com/skenstudiosMentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

A lot of small product business founders have likely experienced that same exciting moment of thinking or feeling that what may have started as a hobby or a side hustle is starting to turn into something more! Taking your ideas, personal projects, or businesses to the next level does take a lot of work and requires a good degree of self-belief - what it requires is getting serious about your intentions. In today’s episode of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I speak to the founder of sensory sensation, science-led, baby essentials brand, Etta Loves. With a career in Media, Jen didn’t have much background in buying or production, but inspired by her first daughter and with support from her NCT friends, Jen has built her business from one great idea, by taking herself and her vision seriously, into a hugely successful multinational company. In this podcast, we discuss the challenges of operating overseas, managing cashflow issues and how setbacks can help shape your business. We also talk about growing your brand awareness, cultivating sustained and gradual growth and how important it is to nurture connections and take chances. Check out Jen’s beautiful products at: ettaloves.com / us.ettaloves.com / eu.ettaloves.com And connect with her and the brand at: instagram.com/@ettaloves ANNOUNCEMENT Launching July 10th, I’m offering a brand new, 6-month programme combining award-winning business mentoring with the magic of masterminding, for ambitious small business owners. Book a discovery chat at https://www.resilientretailclub.com/retail-business-mentoringMentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Whether you’re someone who’s just started a creative product business and are chasing that first sale or whether you’re an experienced founder trying to leverage even greater growth for your long-running and established brand, something we all share in common is that we all want to experience success, in its many shapes and forms. From social media to shop windows, the popularity and success of a product or brand can sometimes seemingly explode out of nowhere, but it’s not often the case that these businesses are overnight successes. In episode 151 of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I speak to Sallie King of small-space furniture brand, Urbansize. From humble beginnings selling single units on Etsy to being stocked in Urban Outfitters and Not On The High Street, Sallie shares how she gradually built up her business from a single idea and product into the successful brand it is today. In today's podcast we discuss the challenges of stock management and warehousing, creating growth without investment and the virtue of patience. We also talk about the long-term cost, and even personal, benefits of outsourcing and how we might better delegate and share the load of our businesses with our teams. Check out Sallie’s beautiful products at: www.urbansize.co.uk And connect with her at: https://www.instagram.com/urbansize_home ANNOUNCEMENT Launching July 10th, I’m offering a brand new, 6-month programme combining award-winning business mentoring with the magic of masterminding, for ambitious small business owners. Book a discovery chat at: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/retail-business-mentoring Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

“How do I run a promotion that doesn’t damage my brand?” is a question I get asked all the time. It’s a valid concern, evidenced no better than by what my friend and fashion brand consultant Elizabeth Stiles calls “The Gap Trap” - where the constant over-promoting and discounting of stock at the famous clothing retailer culminated in the admittedly flagging brand having to shut up shop in the UK. The important thing to remember is that promotions should look like they’re designed for and are beneficial to your customers, but really, first and foremost, they need to work for you! One of the best questions to ask yourself when you’re considering running a promotion is:  “What is your end goal?” In today’s episode of The Resilient Retail Game plan we’ll discuss the types of promotions, discounts and campaigns available to small businesses, their effectiveness and when best to employ them. We’ll discuss the powerful but short-term impact of blanket promotions, using specific targeted promotions to clear stock and how this differs from a ‘stock clearance’ sale. We’ll also talk about plotting your promotions against your sales calendar, promotional options such as free shipping and how promotions, at their core, are a great way to have new conversations with your customer. PROMO: If you join the Resilient Retail Club before June 18th you’ll get your first month at 1/2 price! You’ll also be just in time to join our brand new, very exciting 30-day sales challenge. Exclusively for members the challenge will include daily audio prompts, access to a private members-only podcast, goal setting, some truly special guest talks and group co-working sessions. Join now at: resilientretailclub.com/membership Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

As you’ve undoubtedly heard me say before, the best sales strategy is a great product strategy. Everything works better for you and your business when your audience and customers are excited about your product - they’ll buy more, they’ll tend to convert at a better rate on your website and they’ll tell more people about your brand. So if you are feeling stuck, or find yourself in a bit of a rut it’s always best to bring it back to the product and to ask yourself - is it the best it can be in order to attract customers? Big retail businesses are constantly reviewing their current product lines and trialling new ideas to figure out what the customer wants, so in episode 149 of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I’m going to share with you my tips to help small business owners like yourself to create products your customers really want. In this podcast we’ll discuss communicating with your customers, figuring out who they are, what they’re going through and how that informs what they want and need. We’ll think about asking what our customers DON’T want and how it can help us make choices that better align with the desires of our customers. We'll also discuss how we buy based on emotions and why it’s almost more important to sell your audience on the ‘transformation’ a product promises than the item itself. PROMO: If you join the Resilient Retail Club before June 18th you’ll get your first month at 1/2 price! You’ll also be just in time to join our brand new, very exciting 30-day sales challenge. Exclusively for members the challenge will include daily audio prompts, access to a private members-only podcast, goal setting, some extraordinary guest talks and group co-working sessions. Join now at: resilientretailclub.com/membership Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Artificial intelligence certainly is a hot topic at the moment! There’s a lot of heady discourse flying back and forth in the news, as well as concerns about its use (or misuse) in specific contexts. Still, I think it’s worth remembering that AI, in the form of algorithmic and machine learning applications like Google Maps, has existed and been in use for a long time. It’s the advent of platforms like Chat GPT, which stands for Generative Pre-trained Transformer, that have really begun to shake things up and for creative product businesses, offer opportunities that could be quite transformative. In today's episode of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, we’ll be discussing a number of ways that you can use artificial intelligence in your business to fill gaps in your knowledge and save yourself one of the most important commodities of all - time! From customer service responses to product descriptions, we’ll look at how you can leverage AI to cut down on time-consuming copywriting. We’ll delve into generating blog posts, newsletters and even targeted ads. I’ll run some examples to demonstrate the idea generative capabilities of AI and we’ll also talk about the importance of maintaining your tone of voice and an eye for detail when working with this sort of technology. Episode Links: https://resilientretailclub--marketingwithmenekse.thrivecart.com/the-marketing-magic-dashboards/ Chat.openai.com Bing.com Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

It’s a fact of running a small product business that some days are better than others. When you spend so much time and put so much passion into creating or curating your line of products, it can feel deeply demoralising when your sales numbers suddenly drop or fail to materialise for that item you had such high hopes for. This is often when the ‘cycle of doom’ starts to spin and whir and where in some extreme cases people end up shutting up shop due to low confidence and inaction. That’s why I want to spend episode 147 of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, giving you a little pep talk and to share with you seven vital ways to help you avoid giving up on your business during those slow sales days. In today’s podcast, we’ll talk about looking at the bigger picture and not focusing on the daily, we’ll revisit cultivating a 'CROP' mindset and discuss looking for the ‘green shoots’ in your business, as well as talking about the importance of not forgetting our existing customers in the drive for increased sales. We’ll also discuss implementing low-risk, low-cost shake-ups in an effort to help refresh your business, seeking out complimentary, non-competitive collaborations and finding the right support to help you push on through and innovate. Remember to use the code: 10podcast to get £10 off your first month when joining The Resilient Retail Club. Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

It probably holds true that many small product business owners dream of the day that they can hand their notice in at work and dedicate themselves to their own businesses full-time. It’s an audacious goal and certainly isn’t going to happen overnight (in most cases!) but it’s completely possible as my guest today demonstrates. In episode 146 of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I speak to children’s decor and gift designer and founder of Hannah Joy Designs, Hannah Burn. Having always wanted to run her own business, Hannah decided to create her own fun and colourful brand after she fell out of love with her career and needed something new to get excited about, all with the purpose of “creating a life that she loves through creativity”.  Starting with a little know-how and a lot of determination, five and half years on Hannah’s fully transitioned from running a side hustle to running her business full-time. In today’s podcast, we talk about her amazing journey. Throughout this episode we talk about the need to test out products, the importance of failure in discovering what does and doesn’t work and how sometimes the hardest decisions are the best ones. We also discuss “gold medal syndrome”, the realities of sustaining success and how the Resilient Retail Club has made a difference in the growth of Hannah’s business. Check out Hannah’s beautiful products at: https://hannahjoydesigns.co.uk/ And connect with her at: https://www.instagram.com/hannahjoy_designs/ https://www.facebook.com/HannahJoyDesigns/ https://www.pinterest.co.uk/hannahjoydesigns/ LIMITED TIME OFFER: Use the code: BIRTHDAY23 for £60 off annual membership to the Resilient Retail Club (promotion ending 10 pm on May 19th 2023)  Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Celebrations are in order! May is not only the month of my birthday but it also marks the third anniversary of The Resilient Retail Club. When I started the business back in 2020, I never set out to create a membership, but instead planned to offer courses, starting with my ‘Grow Your Sales’ course back when I used to operate as ‘Future Retail’. But with the challenges presented by COVID and the subsequent lockdowns, I pivoted from offering courses to creating a community where people could come get the support they needed - and, as they say, the rest is history. It’s been an absolute joy and privilege to work with so many small businesses and such wonderful people since starting my business, so in today’s podcast, I want to share my top ten highlights from the last three years of running the Resilient Retail Club. I’ll be talking about the strength of our community, sharing our weekly and quarterly wins and the reward of running a business that does good. We’ll also talk about the importance of celebrating each other, the delights of meeting in person and how the club helped shape my new book: ‘Tame Your Tiger’. Don’t forget - use the code: 10podcast to get £10 off your first month when joining The Resilient Retail Club. Want weekly updates and news you can use? Subscribe to the Weekly Sales Review emails at: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/sign-up/ Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

With Easter not long behind us, the next big calendar event on the horizon is Father’s Day. Whilst the dad-centric holiday sees lower spending on average than Mother's Day, it’s still a major event in hospitality and retail. Now, some of you may be looking at your range of products and thinking where does my business fit into Fathers Day? It’s true that not every small product business will be suited to catering for gifts for dads, that's why I want to spend today's episode of The Resilient Retail Game Plan breaking down the sort of product categories that broadly appeal to men to help give you some gifting ideas in order for you to make the most of Father’s Day. We’ll discuss pampering versus practicality and the male proclivity for functional upgrades. We’ll look at the undeniable gifting staples that are clothing, consumables and electronics, as well as covering some more varied ideas that are more lifestyle-led, and we’ll also discuss some possible product approaches for those of you who have a majority-female customer base or female-focused product range. Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

The impact of mindset on your business truly cannot be underestimated, it affects everything we do as small business owners, from the way that we interact with our customers and staff to how we show up on social media and market our products. Too often when we lose confidence in ourselves, and potentially in our business, we tend to take less action and get stuck in what I call the 'cycle of doom': sales drop - we lose confidence - we take less action - sales drop - we lose confidence, and on and on it goes. So, in today’s episode, I want to share with you the new acronym I’ve developed (CROP) to help you maintain a mindset that keeps you feeling good and keeps your business running optimally. We’ll look at curiosity, where we’ll discuss exploring new ideas, learning from feedback and ultimately not catastrophising when things don’t go to plan. We’ll look at resilience, overcoming challenges, coping with uncertainty and the importance of staying nimble. We’ll also tap into objectivity, making data-driven decisions and keeping an eye on the big picture, and we’ll wrap up by discussing what arguably fuels your ability to be your best self, positivity. Don’t forget - use the code: 10podcast to get £10 off your first month when joining The Resilient Retail Club. Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

In episode 142 of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I wrap up my short series about building your small business on a budget with my good friend and fashion brand consultant Elizabeth Stiles. Elizabeth and I share a lot of background and experience when it comes to the retail industry and understand the vital importance of sales strategy and skills when it comes to growing a business and that if small business owners don’t work on these areas they could end up with what amounts to a very expensive hobby! So, in today’s podcast, we talk about trying to shift our mindsets around selling, appreciating that it can be a mutually beneficial exchange and not you pulling a fast one on your unsuspecting audience. We talk about the art of conversation, seduction and the power of emotion when it comes to people's purchasing decisions. We also consider how we need to speak to our audience in different ways, understand that not everyone is ready to buy and that when things seem tough that we have to ‘sell through the silence'. Don’t forget - use the code: 10podcast to get £10 off your first month when joining The Resilient Retail Club. Check out Elizabeth’s services over at: https://www.elizabethstiles.co.uk/ And connect with her at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/TheFashionFeed/ https://www.instagram.com/elizabethstilesuk/ https://www.pinterest.co.uk/thefashionbrandclinic/ Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

In the fourth episode of my mini-series of discussions about building your business on a budget, I speak to Jayne Lasley, founder of “Fairlie Curved”. Originally started as a styling page on Instagram, Jayne took a modest £500 after losing her job in lockdown to attempt to create a fuller-bust clothing line - an idea informed by her own experiences of someone with a 30HH bust and an idea that had been on her mind since the final year of her degree in Textile, Fashion Design and Management. Only a few years on, her small business is thriving - boasting a dedicated community of customers and fans and an international demand for her products.  In today’s episode, we discuss the vital importance of cultivating communities, listening to the needs and wants of your customers and bringing them in on the decision-making. We also talk about going the extra mile, repaying the support and appreciation you receive and effectively utilising user-generated content. We also touch on authenticity and trust, the value of a quick response and how being genuinely social can transform your business. Check out Jayne’s amazing brand at: https://fairliecurved.com/ And connect with her at: https://www.facebook.com/fairliecurvedstyle/ https://www.instagram.com/fairliecurved/ https://twitter.com/fairliecurved Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

In the third of my mini-series of discussions about building your business on a budget, I speak to Steph Douglas, founder of the thoughtful gifting company “Don’t Buy Her Flowers”. Steph started her small business back in 2014 after she was inundated with bouquets of flowers following the birth of her first child - although wonderfully well-meant, flowers just felt like just another thing for Steph to look after when she already had her newborn and herself to prioritise. Like most parents, she just wanted to treat herself to a hot cup of tea and experience some TLC, hence DBHF was born - with over 250 products to choose from, customers can make bespoke or choose readymade gift boxes that perfectly suit the person they are sending them to. In today’s episode, we discuss motherhood, finding connections through shared experiences and building communities organically. We also talk about influencer marketing and the importance of collaborating authentically and personally in order to engage your audience. We also chat about PR, how integral storytelling is to brand-building, and the importance of establishing your ‘brand pillars’ in setting and communicating your small business mission for yourselves and your customers. Check out Steph’s fantastic gifting options at: https://www.dontbuyherflowers.com/ And connect with Steph at: https://www.instagram.com/steph_dontbuyherflowers/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephdouglas/Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

In the second of my series of discussions about building your business on a budget, I speak to Rebecca Gibbions of the boutique jewellery brand, ‘Last Night I Dreamt’. After putting a successful career in television production on hold to raise a family, Rebecca felt a bit adrift until an opportunity to open a jewellery shop in her home of Southwell, Nottingham, ignited an excitement in her she hadn’t felt for some time. Since opening in 2015, and launching a website in 2019, Rebecca’s small business has gone from strength to strength. Offering collated collections of jewellery by the best British and international designers, Rebecca attributes the brand’s true success to her desire and commitment to authentically connect with her customers, cultivate a community and to make even the driest of business processes relevant and fun. In today’s episode, we discuss storytelling, purpose and creating unique spaces that go beyond the standard shop floor. We also talk about the importance of the personal touch as well as creating a consistent tone of voice across a multitude of marketing and selling platforms. We also talk about how producing blogs and leveraging current trends can keep things relevant and fresh when it comes to generating organic SEO. Check out Rebecca’s beautifully curated collections at: https://www.lastnightidreamt.co.uk/ And connect with her at: https://www.facebook.com/LNIDjewellery/ https://www.instagram.com/lnidjewellery/ https://twitter.com/lnidjewellery Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Today’s podcast marks the first in a series of discussions about building your business on a budget and in episode 138 of The Resilient Retail Game Plan I speak with Laura Schofield, the founder of Otto and Ivy, a specialist shoe brand, who incredibly had never spent a penny on marketing until the third year of running her business. Having initially cultivated a career in television presenting, she felt something was missing after working for several years as a shopping channel host. It was through her creative outlet - a blog for fellow tall woman (Laura is 6ft 1 with size 9 (UK) feet) - and the loyal community it generated that Laura found the confidence to enter the small business world. From starting out by simply googling shoe brands to visiting factories in Italy, to generating a wealth of research through focus groups and surveys, Laura has managed to quickly build an impressive business from modest means. In this podcast, we discuss how people buy from people and how storytelling often rivals specs when selling. We talk about the value of adopting a slower model of growth, allowing for refinements and how gathering feedback not only improves your products but your audience's connection with your brand, and we also speak about what it means to be trustworthy and the importance of sharing your 'why'. Check out Laura’s beautiful shoes at: https://ottoandivy.com/ And connect with her over at: https://www.facebook.com/ottoandivyshoes https://www.instagram.com/ottoandivyshoes/ Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Product photography has changed a lot since the days of a single image on a white background in a 500-page catalogue. As the advertising and marketing worlds have evolved, we’ve seen increasing complexity in the way businesses present their products to their audience, such as through multi-layered storytelling and creating cultural context around their products, and with the continuing growth of online retail, good imagery has never been more important in communicating the qualities and value of products outside of a traditional physical retail space. In episode 137 of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I speak to brand and product photographer Hiral Jethwa. A passionate advocate of good photography, Hiral produces content to elevate small product businesses, bolster their brands and ultimately help increase sales. In today’s podcast, we discuss how good photography not only helps address your customers' pain points but can lessen the risk of unwanted returns and refunds. We also talk about finding the right photographer to collaborate with, how to communicate your vision and Hiral also shares her tips for how to best prepare for the big shoot! Check out Hiral’s work and services at: https://hj-photography.co.uk/ And connect with her at: https://www.instagram.com/hjbrandingstories/ Don’t forget - use the code: 10podcast to get £10 off your first month when joining The Resilient Retail Club, and get your copy of “Tame Your Tiger” at: https://uk.bookshop.org/books/tame-your-tiger-how-to-stop-your-product-business-eating-you-alive/9781788604048 Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

So, the inspiration for today’s episode came out of a conversation I was having with fashion brand consultant, Elizabeth Stiles. We chat often over WhatsApp, sometimes about the things that drive us crazy about small businesses - and on this occasion we both found ourselves bemoaning the recent trend of founders posting negatively framed content about their businesses. Now, this episode is definitely not about shaming you if you’re having a tough time, or indeed if you’ve recently shared posts on social media to this effect! What I really want to discuss today are the risks of implementing such a strategy, the damage it can do to your brand and ultimately why it’s important to understand that there should be a line when it comes to sharing content built around your business. In today’s podcast, we’ll talk about compassion fatigue and not shifting your problems onto your customers. I discuss how retail is theatre, and how we as small business owners need to offer up escapism. We’ll also look at how to positively reframe your struggles and challenges, by thanking those who are supporting your business and how we can authentically connect with our audience by “sharing the scar, not the wound”. Don’t forget - use the code: 10podcast to get £10 off your first month when joining The Resilient Retail Club, and get your copy of “Tame Your Tiger” at: https://uk.bookshop.org/books/tame-your-tiger-how-to-stop-your-product-business-eating-you-alive/9781788604048 Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Branding at its core is rooted in psychology and human behaviour - it’s how your customers think and feel about you, your products and your business, and more than ever with so many brands out there, we, as founders, need to be able to cut through the noise, set ourselves apart from our competitors and build trusted relationships with our customers if we want to grow. In episode 135 of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I speak to brand consultant Cara Bendon. With 10 years experience of running her own award-winning studio, Cara and her team help small lifestyle businesses create standout brands. In this episode, we break down branding as we talk about colour theory, shelf appeal, and the importance of cohesiveness and consistency in establishing trust. We also discuss the power of the little touches, tone of voice and the paradox of practising sustainability while offering an excellent unboxing experience. Don’t forget - use the code: 10podcast to get £10 off your first month when joining The Resilient Retail Club, and get your copy of “Tame Your Tiger” at: https://uk.bookshop.org/books/tame-your-tiger-how-to-stop-your-product-business-eating-you-alive/9781788604048 Check out Cara’s services at https://www.carabendon.com/ and connect with her at: https://www.instagram.com/carabendon/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/carabendon/ Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

My first book, “Tame Your Tiger: How to stop your product business eating you alive“ was finally released this week and I couldn’t be more excited to share it with you! To really celebrate this momentous occasion, I’ve decided to spend this episode of The Resilient Retail Game Plan sharing an in-depth, behind-the-scenes look into the book, where I’ll discuss my writing process, who the book’s for and why I wrote it, as well as the key learnings and takeaways small businesses can hope to find within its pages. But today’s podcast comes with one major twist in the form of today’s guest - in that today’s guest is me! That’s right, it’s a Resilient Retail role reversal, where I’m being interviewed by none other than fellow author (‘Hype Yourself’) and PR expert, Lucy Werner. Throughout our discussion of the development and evolution of the book, we touch on numerous topics such as the lessons that small businesses can learn from big-budget corporate strategy, and the ever-present tension between the creative impetus that leads many people to start their own businesses and the need to be on top of your numbers. We also cover my favourite tip from the book and most importantly deconstruct the three problem areas that constitute an untamed tiger. Don’t forget - use the code: 10podcast to get £10 off your first month when joining The Resilient Retail Club, and get your copy of “Tame Your Tiger” at: https://uk.bookshop.org/books/tame-your-tiger-how-to-stop-your-product-business-eating-you-alive/9781788604048 Many thanks to Lucy for doing a wonderful job as today's host! Check out her services at https://www.thewern.com/lucy and pick up a copy of her amazing book “Hype Yourself here: https://www.hypeyourself.com/shop Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

In today's episode of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I want to give you my expert support in order for you to understand better the figures that can ultimately make or break your small business. We’re already barrelling towards March and 2023 is looking no less uncertain for independent retail - that’s why we need to embrace and closely monitor our numbers to help us stay in control and lay out a clear and confident strategy for the future of our brands. This subject is actually the basis of a talk I did at the beginning of February at this year's Spring Fair at Birmingham MEC, but I’m very excited to say that this episode will be discussed through the lens and give you a real sense of my brand-new, soon to be released book, “Tame Your Tiger: How to Stop Your Product Business Eating You Alive”.  We’ll start by covering the Tiger’s bite. We’ll study the most important number in your small business - the ‘in-margin’, as defined by your product costs, and we’ll discuss how to grow your ‘out-margin’ by reviewing your sale-relative expenditure. We’ll also look at how much you’re feeding your tiger and how using break-even analysis can help model future costs. I’ll explain how the 80/20 rule can help you better identify the desires of your customers, and we’ll finish at the Tiger’s tail, where we’ll discuss the dangers of unproductive stock to the longevity of your small business. Don’t forget - use the code: 10podcast to get £10 off your first month when joining The Resilient Retail Club, and to get your copy first, remember to pre-order Tame Your Tiger at: https://uk.bookshop.org/books/tame-your-tiger-how-to-stop-your-product-business-eating-you-alive/9781788604048 Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

It may still be a whole six weeks away but Mother’s Day is the biggest gift-giving event in the UK outside of Christmas, out-selling both Valentine’s and Father’s day! The cost of living crisis and the ongoing recession are still presenting plenty of challenges to the retail industry, so all the while that we’re seeing less impulse purchasing and less discretionary spending, it’s important that small product businesses are ready and prepared to make the most of the somewhat spending-protected gift-giving occasions.  So, in today’s episode of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I want to share with you twelve top tips to help your small business finesse your messaging and tune into your customers, so you can make the most of Mother’s Day in 2023.  In this podcast, we’ll discuss making things easier for ‘time-poor’ customers by creating gift guides and curating offerings such as gift bundles. We’ll talk about the perfect pairing of presents and personalisation, offering add-ons like gift-wrapping and how best to implement promotions across your range. We’ll also look at retargeting customers, revisiting wholesale and how now might be the perfect time to launch your newest products. Don’t forget - use the code: 10podcast to get £10 off your first month when joining The Resilient Retail Club, and to get your copy first, remember to pre-order Tame Your Tiger at: https://uk.bookshop.org/books/tame-your-tiger-how-to-stop-your-product-business-eating-you-alive/9781788604048 Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Coming off the back of my 5-day challenge, across the various conversations, questions and queries that arose during the week, I noticed some commonalities and a number of reoccurring themes when it came to the real-life experience of running a small product business. In episode 131 of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I’ll be using those stories and discussions to elaborate on what I consider to be five essential traits you need to thrive as a small product business this year. In this podcast, we’ll discuss curiosity and adopting a ‘what if’ mindset. We’ll look at optimism and how positivity effects action. We’ll talk about obsessing over our customers, operating with as much flexibility as possible and we’ll finish on how success in these areas affords you that all-important quality - resilience!  Don’t forget - use the code: 10podcast to get £10 off your first month when joining The Resilient Retail Club, and to get your copy first, remember to pre-order Tame Your Tiger at: https://uk.bookshop.org/books/tame-your-tiger-how-to-stop-your-product-business-eating-you-alive/9781788604048 Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

January is a funny month in retail - starting back up after the highs of the Christmas selling season can make the new year feel exceptionally tough-going, and with Christmas never being as restful as you’d think, for many business owners January is the first time they’re really able to recuperate and have a think about the year ahead, all whilst trying to shift stock throughout the post-Xmas lull. Over the years I’ve noticed that a lot of the advice available about planning for the year ahead is rarely produced with product businesses in mind - so, in episode 130 of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I want to share my top four tips for getting ready for Spring and beyond. In this podcast, we’ll discuss giving your January sale one, big, final push, shifting stock and getting cash in your pocket. We’ll talk about recapping the month, running your numbers and getting a clearer view of the state of your business. We’ll also talk about planning beyond Spring, setting your intentions and making the most of the imminent bunch of gift-giving occasions.  Don’t forget - use the code: 10podcast to get £10 off your first month when joining The Resilient Retail Club, and to get your copy of my new book first, remember to pre-order "Tame Your Tiger" at: https://uk.bookshop.org/books/tame-your-tiger-how-to-stop-your-product-business-eating-you-alive/9781788604048 Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Valentine’s day, one of the first annual holiday occasions of the year, is just over the horizon, and it may surprise you to hear that its popularity is actually on the rise. As a seasonal retail event, Valentine’s day has always seen some considerable spending, but as people spend less on themselves and make fewer impulse purchases during this economic downturn, we can expect to see more of people's disposable income directed towards gifting, making occasions like Valentine’s day all the more important for retailers. Now, as product business owners, most of you will have gift-able items, but perhaps their relation to or suitability as Valentine’s day gifts isn’t immediately apparent. That’s why in episode 129 of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I want to give you my take on why the broadening of the concept of Valentine’s day means you have nothing to lose by embracing the love and capitalising on a major spending occasion. In this podcast, we’ll look at date nights, gifts for your loved ones and showing your appreciation to your pals and gals. We’ll also discuss self-gifting, landing the right messaging for your audience and how even the family cats and dogs are getting in on the fun. Don’t forget - use the code: 10podcast to get £10 off your first month when joining The Resilient Retail Club. Register today for my FREE 5-day challenge, running 23rd - 27th January 2023 at: Tinyurl.com/sales2023 Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

So, we’re well and truly into the new year now and just as the pains and challenges of the Covid pandemic are starting to fade gradually, we’re now stuck looking for ways to deal with a whole new set of challenges in the form of a cost of living crisis and the fact that the UK economy is now officially in a recession.  It all may sound a bit bleak, but in episode 128 of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I want to use my in-depth research and share with you the conversations I’ve been having with a variety of experts - from business consultants to trend forecasters - to cover and explain the major industry trends that will shape retail this year. In today’s episode, we’ll look at the steadfastness of gift-giving during periods of low consumer confidence and study the rising popularity of the resale and second-hand markets. We’ll also discuss and break down the post-pandemic shifts in e-commerce and channel diversification, as well taking a look at how retail relationships are shifting from brands and customers to individuals and fans. Don’t forget - use the code: 10podcast to get £10 off your first month when joining The Resilient Retail Club. Register today for my FREE 5-day challenge, running 23rd - 27th January 2023 at: Tinyurl.com/sales2023 Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

So, we’ve made it - 2023 is here! Times have been tough for the retail industry for a good, long while now and who knows what unforeseen events lie ahead as we enter a new year, but against the odds and throughout the uncertainty I still believe the most important thing I can recommend you do for your business this year is to plan, plan and plan!   Now, you may well be asking, “Catherine! Why make a plan when things are always changing?”, and it all comes down to perspective - we’re a very outcome-led society and I want to suggest that the value of a plan is not in its success but in the thought process required to put it together. In this episode of the Resilient Retail Game Plan, I’ll discuss how planning is a highly creative process and why it’s important to find a way to plan for your business that feels natural to you. We’ll talk about setting financial, functional and fun goals and discuss how mapping out your vision of success can help keep you more focused, prioritise what’s important and help you make better decisions. Don’t forget - use the code: 10podcast to get £10 off your first month when joining The Resilient Retail Club. Register today for my FREE 5-day challenge, running 23rd - 27th January 2023 at: Tinyurl.com/sales2023 Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

That’s it! Christmas Day has come and gone, and with any mercy, you can take some proper time out in these few days before 2023!  It’s been a tough year, with the combined challenges of post-pandemic life, postal strikes and the cost of living crisis (to name a few!) hitting small product businesses hard and no doubt causing founders and business owners alike untold stress. That’s why in this episode of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, we're doing something a bit different as I speak to my incredible yoga teacher Martyna Borek about the importance of stress relief and how we can all seize a moment of calm in our often chaotic lives. In today's podcast, we talk about the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems and the consequences for our body and mind when we’re forever in 'fight' mode. We also discuss the concept of the threat bucket and the importance of allowing ourselves to ditch the mediation and freak out when things get too much. But most importantly Martyna kindly shares her tips for ‘hacking your brain’ with some illuminating neuroscience and cleansing breathing techniques.  Check out Martyna's classes, workshops and retreats at: https://martynaborekyoga.com/ And connect with her at: https://www.facebook.com/martynaborekyoga/ https://www.instagram.com/martynaborekyoga/  Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Christmas finally arrives this coming Sunday - the finish line, if you and your small product business aren’t already over it, is almost in sight.  I hope you can make the time (I implore you to!) to put your feet up and give yourself a well-deserved pat on the back during the holidays, but as the new year approaches, I know that as founders and business owners that your thoughts will inevitably start to turn towards Q1 of 2023 - that’s why for episode 125 of The Resilient Retail Game Plan I want to help you to boost your sales in what is typically the quietest month of the year in retail for almost every business. In today's podcast, we’ll look at stock clearance events and their benefits at this time of year. We’ll also cover the importance of building relationships with the new customers you’ve acquired during this festive selling season. I’ll delve into the customer habits that are distinct to the new year and how you can better frame your products and messaging to leverage buying patterns, and we’ll also talk about making the most of your product lines by exploring different revenue streams. Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

With the postal strikes looming and the adverse weather conditions currently affecting travel across the whole UK, there’s a good chance many of you will have moved your final Xmas posting day forward, or maybe you’re ahead of the curve and have already got your feet up, eggnog in hand, after dispatching your last order for 2022.  Whether you’ve already stopped or are just about to break for Christmas, these weeks and typically January are quietest for most businesses. You may have some small items of business admin to keep things ticking over, but in today’s episode of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I want to share five things you can do in your business during the quiet time. In today's podcast, I’ll discuss the importance of celebrating your successes after a long year’s hard work, we’ll also look at the best way to study and leverage the data from your numbers, and I’ll share some advice on how to ‘replenish your tank’. I’ll also ask you to review the state of your business and consider whether its current trajectory is sustainable and I’ll also share some learning resources for you to sink your teeth into during your downtime. Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Good stock management is important all year round but now as we arrive about a week into December, at the annual peak selling period, it deserves special consideration. From your year-round bestsellers to your short-term seasonal selects, you’ve no doubt got a lot of stock on your hands - so, in episode 123 of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I want to share my thoughts on stock processes specific to the Xmas period to help keep you and your business nimble and cash-rich in these uncertain times. In this podcast, we’ll cover those pesky ‘brown bananas’ and review how to best handle products with both seasonal and literal expiry dates. We’ll take a look at stock levels on the whole and the relationship between what you’ve got left and what you expect to sell before 2023. We’ll also discuss classifying your stock and whether it’s destined to be defined as ‘carry-forward’ or ‘clearance’. I’ll also touch on putting a clearance plan together and the importance of your sales messaging, and we’ll finish up by taking a stock sense check for Spring 2023.  Don’t forget - use the code: 10podcast to get £10 off your first month when joining The Resilient Retail Club. Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

*Resilient Retail News Flash* I'm very excited to share that my new book "Tame Your Tiger: How to stop your product business eating you alive" is now available to preorder at https://uk.bookshop.org/. In the book, I'll show you how to easily apply big business tools and perspectives to help better understand your business, as well as how to get clear on what you need to do to grow profitably, and, ultimately, tame your tiger. On to today's episode!  In episode 122 of The Resilient Retail Game plan, I speak to the founder of 'The Ecommerce Assistant', Elle Williamson. Having spent over ten years working in e-commerce for small and big brands, Elle now helps independent businesses to get the most out of their online shops. In this podcast, we discuss the feature-rich Shopify 2.0 and the importance of giving your customers everything they need to know in order for them to hit that 'buy' button with confidence. We also go through some tips to help you with your conversion, from personally testing your buyer's journey out to carefully curating your range of products for a more personalised shopping experience. We also delve into email marketing, and run through where you could be better optimising your mail-outs to drive an increase in that all-important revenue!  Check out Elle’s services at: https://www.theecommerceassistant.com/ And connect with her at: https://www.instagram.com/theecommerceassistant/ https://www.facebook.com/theecommerceassistant https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-e-commerce-assistant/ Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

In today's episode of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I speak to marketing professional and web designer turned illustrator and small business owner, Natalie Bent. After working in head offices at large retailers such as Marks and Spencers and Woolworths and tiring of the corporate world, Natalie, inspired by her daughter, set up Little Scholars Playground in lockdown with her husband, (who works in the aerospace industry), with a mission to create inclusive books and learning materials to encourage girls and young children to develop a passion for STEM.   In this podcast we discuss the value of STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) to the ongoing development of young children and how important inclusion, diversity and representation is, especially when it comes to early years education as 'you can't be what you can't see'. We also discuss some of the logistical and financial challenges surrounding manufacturing, the importance of setting boundaries when it comes to your personal time and how feedback from selling at markets can prove essential to improving your products.    Check out Natalie's beautiful STEM products at: https://littlescholarsplayground.com/ and connect with her and Little Scholars Playground at: https://www.instagram.com/littlescholarsplayground/ https://www.facebook.com/littlescholarsplayground https://twitter.com/3littlescholars Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

We’re now into the golden weeks, the period where we see people spending the majority of their Christmas budget. With many ongoing economic issues, the increased cost of living and ballooning inflation plaguing the public, we can expect to see reduced spending this Christmas in contrast to last year - but after recently visiting the “Spirit Of Christmas” fair and attending “Stylist Live”, as well as a number of other markets and smaller events, the bustling crowds and the sheer number of carrier bags I’ve observed being carried around prove that people are still spending this season. In episode 120 of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I want to assuage your fears and give you some top tips when it comes to securing those sales this Christmas. We’ll dive back into the power of “micro-niches” and why it’s more important than ever to get really specific in order to appeal to your ideal customers. We’ll discuss how important it is to not make assumptions about your customer's relationships to your brand and how to get as clear as possible on what it is that you’re selling. We’ll also look at the literal act of selling, how to avoid the ickiness and create a sales experience that’s positive for everyone, and I’ll also touch on those ever-important email lists and how you can encourage subscriptions through incentives. Don’t forget - use the code: 10podcast to get £10 off your first month when joining The Resilient Retail Club. Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Whether you're setting up shop at a small-scale Xmas craft fair, getting ready for one of the big branded seasonal showcases, or are yet to sign up for a festive event, it’s time to think strategically about maximising your sales at in-person events this Christmas Events aren’t just about sales, they provide great opportunities for promoting your brand, making connections and gaining important insights from your customers face-to-face - but when Christmas accounts for such a large percentage of a business's annual turnover, it’s important to be setting yourself up for success when it comes to seasonal selling.   In episode 119 of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I cover four easy ways to maximise your sales at Christmas events. We’ll look at the importance of setting yourself targets to help you stay motivated and build better forecasts for the future. We’ll discuss how to involve your existing community and why you need to continue building on that ever-vital email list. I’ll also give you some tips on preparing your stall and a potential ‘script’ and we’ll also look at a number of tactics you can use to try and up your customers’ average spend. Don’t forget - use the code: 10podcast to get £10 off your first month when joining The Resilient Retail Club. Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

As a small business entering the ‘golden weeks’ - the six-week run-up to Christmas - you’re no doubt looking for ways to maximise your sales at a time that can represent more than 50% of your annual turnover.  I’ve spoken before of the only four fundamental ways to grow sales - getting more people to come, getting more people to spend when they do come, getting customers to spend more each time and getting customers to come back more often. These strategies still apply when it comes to Christmas, but ultimately you won’t see the results of things like working on your SEO now in this time frame - we’re not looking for long-term solutions at this point.  In episode 118 of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I’m going to give you my top four ways to grow your sales at Christmas. We’ll look at being present, whether online on social media, or offline at events. We look at the importance of giving people all the information they need to make a purchase, from gifting options to product demonstrations. We’ll discuss how to encourage spending by creating win-win situations for you and your customers. We’ll also review how vital your most loyal customers are to your business and how to best interact with them. Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

In the age of Amazon and next-day delivery, it is heartwarming to see a growing push towards people shopping local, investing in sustainability and consuming more consciously - with a more compassionate outlook shared by independent retailers and customers alike.  Where the lumbering dinosaurs of high-street retail have failed to evolve or capture the imagination of their customers, we’re seeing more creative, engaging and meaningful products and brands slowly take their place, and with the strong communities that coalesce around them, I very much think they’re here to stay. In today’s episode of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I speak to maker turned shop-owner, and founder of Prior Shop, Beck Prior. Based in Bristol, Prior Shop is a not-for-profit arts hub, eco-conscious retail space, workshop and gallery hosting and offering works by the local community. In this podcast, we discuss agility and how small businesses are often in the perfect position to pivot and adapt when times are tough - we also talk about the importance of storytelling in gift buying (and receiving) and how the layout of your store can have a tangible impact on your customers - and we also focus on how running your business in an ethics-led manner can help those you collaborate with reflect better on how they operate within the broader retail picture and small business community. Check out Beck’s wonderful online store at: https://www.priorshop.uk/ And connect with her at: https://www.facebook.com/PriorShopBristol https://www.instagram.com/priorshopbristol Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

We might still have Hallowe’en and Thanksgiving ahead of us but as we all know the festive event that we really need to set our sights on is Christmas.  Now, we’re all very familiar with the red sale signs of the high street, and with the yearly routine of seasonal discounts offered by large retailers you’d forgiven for thinking that slapping a “20% off everything” banner across your website might put you in good stead come the end of Q4 - but this week I’m here to tell you to hold your horses (or maybe that should be reindeer?) as properly profitable promotions require some real planning. In episode 116 of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I cover the five crucial factors to keep in mind when planning your Christmas promotions. We’ll look at the different types of promotions to use, as well as the ideal frequency and proximity of when you deploy them. I’ll also discuss why preparation is key and how, at the end of the day, these promotions aren’t really for the customer, they’re for you!  If after this podcast you want even more info and tips on planning for Xmas 2022, make sure to tune in to my live talk at 1 pm on the 27th of October at resilientretailclub.com/christmas Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

We’ve come a long way since the days of Don Draper and the post-war triad of print, television and billboard advertising. The advent of the internet, the growth of social media and the ubiquity of mobile devices have transformed the advertising landscape, and the changes to the way we advertise and are advertised to are only getting more significant and more rapid as technology and our relationship to it evolves - it’s a lot to keep up with!  That’s why in episode 115 of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I welcome back Narada McKoy, marketing extraordinaire and founder of Bravada, the startup marketing specialists offering startups flexible, on-demand services. In this podcast, we discuss the changing nature of data tracking and what it’ll mean to live in a cookie-less future. We deconstruct and review the sales funnel stages and why we need to start employing ‘broad-stroke marketing’, and we also discuss the growing popularity of TikTok and the increasingly blurred line between entertainment and e-commerce. Check out Narada’s services at: https://www.bravada-uk.com/ And connect with him at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/narada-mckoy https://www.instagram.com/bravada.marketing/ Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

In an ever-increasingly digital world, real-life markets might be one of the purest and oldest forms of ‘offline’ shopping. Mainly operating historically unchanged as a selling format, the average market has had to weather some considerable shifts in the retail landscape in recent years, from the lockdowns of the COVID pandemic, and financial insecurity across the board, to the growing numbers of consumers shopping online.  We’re living in the era of hybrid retail - if markets and stallholders want to stay relevant and secure their piece of the retail pie, it’s imperative that they build and strengthen the connection between their digital and physical retail worlds. In episode 114 of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I speak to Nicki Capewell, founder of Pedddle, an online directory for creative independent markets and stallholders. In this podcast, we discuss the power of the emotional connections made possible by meeting customers in person and how the memories and stories behind offline-bought gifts help forge deeper relationships between brands and their customers. We also talk about how seeing customers physically interacting with your stall, store or products can be one of the best ways to capture valuable audience data and Nicki also covers her sales-pattern predictions and top tips for Christmas 2022. Check out Nicki’s amazing directory at https://pedddle.com/ And connect with her at: https://twitter.com/pedddleuk https://www.facebook.com/PedddleUK/ https://instagram.com/pedddleuk Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

To run a truly resilient retail business, amongst many things, you definitely have to be adaptable. From the lockdowns of the COVID-19 pandemic and the knock-on effects of unforeseen global events to the recent rise in costs and impending recession, the last few years have required all of us to be flexible in the face of ever-changing circumstances.  As business owners, we’re subject to an onslaught of competitors, the whims of transitory trends, and ever-evolving technology -  if we want to stay relevant and survive in these challenging times we need to embrace change and think creatively. In today's episode of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I speak to Rob Smith about the opportunities afforded by one of the major new creative technologies available when it comes to how we conduct retail - live streaming.  In a world that is increasingly ‘mobile-first’, Rob and I discuss the powerful democratising effect of platforms like TikTok, the power of content and creating genuine connections and communities around your brand. We also discuss how embracing “going live” can be cost-effective for both online and brick-and-mortar stores and why it might be one of the best ways to capture that all-important audience data. Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

Recession! After the last few years we’ve all had, as small business owners, it’s the last phrase we want to hear cropping up on the news and in the papers - but unfortunately, a perfect storm of rising costs, increasing interest rates, ballooning inflation and falling wages all point to an imminent downturn in economic activity.  But not all is lost - far from it! I want to help you prepare for and weather the coming economic storm, as well as put into context what it actually means to be in a recession. In today's episode, I delve into the numbers, articles, research and statistics to bring you my perspective on why you shouldn’t despair but perhaps even embrace the challenges ahead, and why you’re actually a lot better prepared than you may think you are. In this podcast, we’ll take another look at the power of mindset and how your attitude can transform your business. We’ll revisit the fundamentals of knowing your numbers and nailing an effective sales strategy as well as digging into how identifying industry trends can help you better serve your customers. We’ll also discuss stock and how building up a cash buffer can help you keep your business operating as flexibly as possible. Don’t forget - use the code: 10podcast to get £10 off your first month when joining The Resilient Retail Club. Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'

In episode 111 of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I speak to jewellery designer and founder of Good Daze (formerly Mood Good), Rosie Greener. After graduating from Central Saint Martins in 2015, Rosie landed an incredible opportunity to design for some of the top high-street stores such as Topshop and relished working across multiple brands and departments in the fast-paced world of commercial retail. But it wasn’t too long before she wanted to exercise a bit more independence and creative freedom and started running her own business alongside her other work commitments. Fast-forward to today and Rosie runs Good Daze full-time, producing light-hearted, positive designs, all made ethically in small workshops around East London. In today's podcast, we discuss Rosie’s experience of trying to trademark her business, the challenges she faced and the realities of making difficult business decisions. But on a brighter note, we also discuss how to build authentic relationships with your creative peers, and why being patient might be the key to producing the best and most organic collaborations Check out Rosie’s beautiful jewellery at: https://gooddazeahead.com/ And connect with Good Daze at: https://www.instagram.com/gooddazejewellery/ https://www.facebook.com/GoodDazeJewellery/ Don’t forget - use the code: 10podcast to get £10 off your first month when joining The Resilient Retail Club. Mentioned in this episode: Faire 50% off - use code 'Resilient50'