Merchandising

April 2007

Color Squared

Color! Everyone knows color sells. If there was ever an overused statement in recent years, this would be in the top five. Yet, how many of you are truly taking advantage of the opportunities before... more »

March 2007

Getting to Know Mulch

When it comes to mulch, many consumers know the term but don't know exactly how to use the product in their gardens. They may not even realize how beneficial it is or the different options... more »

March 2007

Going Back to Cali

The California Pack Trials is an intense experience filled with variety trials, product displays and marketing concepts — all packed into roughly a week and spread out over hundreds of miles. Attendees will have the... more »

March 2007

Browsing the Gift Markets

At Lawn & Garden Retailer, we know there are numerous gift shows during the year that you would like to attend, but you just can't go to all of them. So we asked representatives from... more »

Creating A Fountain Department

Creating A Fountain Department

Deciding on a fountain department is a big leap. For those of you who have taken this leap, you are well aware of the work involved. Yet this step could establish an advantage over the... more »

January 2007

Feeling The Winds of Change

Each year Lawn & Garden Retailer asks a number of well-known industry professionals to make their predictions for the new year. This year is no different. We have different perspectives from a retailer, a few... more »

January 2007

Making Impulse Items Work

Impulse items are a great way to add on to existing sales. But what is the best way for garden center retailers to make sure customers take notice? It is important not to bombard customers... more »

January 2007

What Looks Good To You?

As you're walking through the mall or driving down the street, which retail stores grab your attention? It might be a store's window display, its advertisement on the side of a bus or another person... more »

January 2007

Color Blocking For Hard Goods

Welcome to Retailing 101. This is a new series that Lawn & Garden Retailer and the University of Florida are bringing to those readers that are new to the business, are looking to start a... more »

The Not-So-Big Garden Center: Being Right About Demographics

The Not-So-Big Garden Center: Being Right About Demographics

The January 2006 issue of Lawn & Garden Retailer included the annual "Industry Leader Forecast" article, and I was flattered to be included in the forecasting group. As 2006 draws to a close, I revisited... more »

Changing Customer Habits

Changing Customer Habits

The single most consistent factor in the entire retail equation is "The Customer." Everything may change. Cycles come and go. Prices and geography have less to do with customer habit than an innate and intuitive... more »

Merchandising ornaments For Fun & Profit

Merchandising ornaments For Fun & Profit

The holiday decorating or "Trim-a-Tree" business (as it is commonly called) can be very lucrative. Lawn and garden retailers understand that the holiday season is a peak shopping period when consumers have more discretionary income... more »