Is Gas Cramping Your Style? Thoughts on the Impact of Gas Prices on Retail

– Don Capman, President,
J.D. Associates

Do you have a gas problem? Well, if you’re a retailer, it’s entirely possible that you do. The more I read, the more I see articles on how the price of a gallon of gasoline is affecting consumer spending. When we saw gas prices go through the roof over a year ago, the consumer at large thought this was an aberration that wouldn't last. Retail spending was not drastically reduced. This time is different. Consumer confidence is down significantly and retailers are feeling the impact. On a recent extended weekend to the New Hampshire Lakes Region, I read an article that heralded the return of tourists for the season. That’s the good news. Reading on, that same article went on to say that although the tourists were coming back, they were unlikely to eat out as often and spend as much on shopping. Most people just don’t have the money and are feeling the pinch. [Get the full story]

10 Indications You Need To Fire An Employee

– Bob Phibbs, the Retail Doctor

If you’ve pre-qualified your employees before putting them on your payroll, you can avoid a lot of issues. But there are times it just doesn’t work out - they become someone other than the warm, intelligent and open person you saw in the interview. Instead of making excuses, apply these ten indicators in a fair and consistent manner to see if you’d be better off without them. #1 - Do you hate the thought of having to work with them? If so, you probably won’t be at your best when you are around them. [Get the full story]