Dan Raftery

Very smart move. And I'd argue that the stores won't even incur much incremental cost, if you include all the costs associated with markdowns and inter-store merchandise transfers. Fashion retail has struggled for decades to balance time-sensitive inventory. Fulfilling to a shopper not standing in the store that has...

I'm with Herb on this. The use of tablets by store personnel for customer service does not make sense for so many reasons. Just exactly what is the associate supposed to look up? Item location? The store would better serve shoppers by bolting a few tablets to the pillars...

We live in a highly fluid and creative society, which started changing at increasing speed when tablets and smart phones became accessible to the general population.

My 3 year old grandson has moved from the kids shows on TV to a variety of iPad options because he can be...

The tendency for people to more likely complain vs. compliment has long been a fundamental tenet of customer service in enlightened companies. And since most supermarket shoppers are not engaged in social media, word-of-mouth recommendation is still alive and well. So, I don't think this is more influence --...

Tranquilizer guns might be better. Pass a law allowing pharmacists to administer the drug.

Catalogs have survived and hold a valid place in retailing for several reasons, including:
* Printing costs have declined dramatically due to off-shore options.
* Target marketing is much more focused. Paula and her friend likely have a lot more in common than just similar zip codes. ...

Tony's attitude toward suppliers and shoppers is the core advantage that independents have over chains. He treats vendors as business partners and respects their business needs. He treats shoppers as his greatest asset and works to satisfy their needs. This entrepreneurial approach to running a grocery store will keep...

Switchers have traditionally been the most responsive to targeted marketing. In some circles they are known as "occasionals," which means their purchase index in the subject category is below average. The general rule of thumb is that any promotion that touches the most frequent buyers (high purchase index) is...

At this point there is really only one choice -- discontinue using it. I can't think of any marketing message that will make the with-or-without option work. The Jamie Oliver Gang have won. Time to find a different use for LFTB. (Note: could be a good time to merchandise...

Not decreased, so much as narrowed. When consultative selling techniques began to take hold (during the developmental years of Category Management, for the youngsters), the selling skills which were valued and which provided results were focused on relationship-building. In those early years it was painfully obvious that those skilled...