Networking for Profit Makers

Networking is easy to do. It can take place in an elevator, walking down the hall to attend a CE, standing in line for coffee, or sitting next to a stranger at lunch. It goes like this: What is working in your store? The best place to network is at a conference. Join Gabe and many other folks to network with in Boston this October 6-9 for NCPA's Annual Convention ($150 discount through Tuesday, July 31st). Who knows who you will bump into and what money-making tip they might share!

Here are some great tips Gabe picked up just last week talking to NCPA members...

Steve Fettman reminds us that the first step in selling mobility is canes. That's why he stocks lots of them. He shared that he sees an uptick in translucent, fashion and college themes canes. Providing a customer a cane that is sized and the right style is the key. It is imperative to offer instructions on how to walk with a cane. Here is the proof. On YouTube "How to walk with a cane correctly", has over a half million views. Never assume that everyone knows how to best use their new cane.

There is much more to selling essential oils than just providing oils and diffusers. Samatha Kelly is an expert at grabbing the companion sale. Sam says that the customers looking for oils often are seeking candles, natural soaps, shower bombs, scented wool dryer balls, specialty teas, natural skincare, and homeopathy.

"How is it going, James?" Good! James and Carole Martin of Davy Crocket Drug Store recently had their pickup truck wrapped. It is awesome! James says when the truck isn't being used in local parades he likes to park it near the Doctor offices and clinics. BRILLIANT! James and Carole created a moving billboard! One time cost was around $3,000.00.

Barbara, how in the heck do you sell so many compression stockings? Answer: "I remind the customer that the best way to wash most compression hoisery is by hand and alllow them to drip dry, this takes time. Then I add, You may want to buy a second pair why your original pair is drying."

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Hansung USA intros Rootree natural skin care line

Global distributor of K-beauty products Hansung USA has announced the launch of its new Rootree Cryptherapy natural skin care line. "We focus on high-quality unique products that bring value to our independent retailers and help them attract new customers," Michael DeSimone, managing partner of AssistivaMD, said. "We believe that independent drug stores will greatly benefit by having these products available and will allow them to create a niche, and help them compete and find new profit centers for their stores. The Cryptherapy skin care line will help them achieve that goal." Read more...

'Independent squeeze' pressures retailers

Being a successful independent in this environment involves thinking beyond traditional roles, and taking advantage of new opportunities. Read more...