Management

Retail’s 7 Deadly Sins
Retail’s 7 Deadly Sins

The original list of Seven Deadly Sins is more than 1,500 years old. Here's an updated version for independent lawn and garden retailers. Feeling guilty?The Seven Deadly Sins, first identified by St. John Cassian and... more »

Ensuring a Better Return
Ensuring a Better Return

From landscape design assistance to the utilization of a new customer survey program, Rice's Nursery is taking necessary steps to keep its customers coming back.No one can say Rice's Nursery doesn't take risks — and... more »

April 13, 2011
Selecta’s New Website Boasts High Functionality

With a fresh web design and access to pertinent information, Selecta's new website can help meet the demands of the contemporary gardener.With a fresh web design that complements the company's unique plant styling, Selecta recently... more »

April 2011
Cash Flowing

Are you doing all you can to monitor inventory and sales in order to maintain and strengthen your cash flow?Let's begin with one simple multiple choice question. Which answer below helps to improve cash flow?A.... more »

April 2011
The Garden-to-Table Garden Center

Empower your customers and establish your garden center as a leader in your community's garden-to-table movement with necessary workshops and events.As more people are becoming aware of where their food comes from and how it's... more »

April 2011
Ready to Eat

Independent garden centers can't make up for lost sales by changing the weather, but some businesses are taking a "Think Food" approach to boosting their bottom lines.The winter of 2011 was one for the record... more »

April 2011
You Have Arrived!

A well executed garden center entrance not only sets the tone of an emotional experience, it opens the minds and the wallets of your customers.Captivating the interest of consumers begins outside of our physical business... more »

April 2011
Giving Thanks

Pairing together the technology you have at hand with a simple "thank you" note can go a long way in helping you pinpoint and retain your best customers.There has been a great deal of talk... more »

April 2011
No (real) Animals Were Harmed

With spring nearing full swing, remember accidents happen and be patient with your staff.Four or five Aprils ago, I ran over a pig. Maybe a few more details would help.Four or five Aprils ago, I... more »

March 2011
Let me explain…

... why a bank from the Pacific Northwest can teach you how to make your business more memorable.Like leaders and owners in any industry, those of you running garden centers are in a constant battle... more »

March 2011
The Incentive Plan That Really Works

A successful and positive incentive program can become a reality when you follow a few basic rules.Nearly every retailer that I have worked with has asked me at some point if I can help them... more »

March 2011
Socially Focused

Looking for some one-on-one time with your customers, but unsure of the best way to do it? North Haven Gardens found a way through Facebook and focus groups.At North Haven Gardens (NHG), we feel that... more »