Momentum Before the Madness | State of Retail: October 2025

consumer trends, holiday season, retail, community engagement, inventory management, personalization, video content, sales strategies, customer experience, momentum, madness, October

Christmas feels close, doesn’t it? You’re not alone. Many independent retailers are already on edge, wondering what’s selling, what isn’t, and how the season will unfold. But here’s the truth: it’s only October. And that’s good news. October is the real starting line for holiday retail. Shoppers haven’t fully arrived yet, which gives you an incredible opportunity. Use this lull … Read More

Retail Momentum the CEO Guide: Localism and Team Power

retail, September 2025, price sensitivity, tariffs, localism, team empowerment, customer connection, business growth, Q4, CEO

Oh my gosh, September really does feel like hitting a reset button, doesn’t it? Summer’s winding down, the back-to-school buzz is here, and in Chicago I even got to wear a sweater the other day.  That shift in the air? It’s the same kind of energy your store can tap into. This is the season to build retail momentum. Now, … Read More

Done Beats Perfect: State of Retail | August 2025

Retail Trends, Consumer Spending, Profit Margins, Experiential Retail, Community Engagement, Economic Shifts, Sustainability, Customer Relationships, Strategic Leadership, Retail Innovation, In-store Experiences, Retail Strategy, Smarter, Lead Harder, Summer, retail

State of Retail: August 2025 There’s something about August. Maybe it’s the back-to-school buzz, or the “let’s do it all before summer ends” rush. One minute you feel calm and collected, the next you’re scrambling. Sound familiar? here’s the State of Retail for you.  But here’s your reminder: you’re not here to hustle harder. You’re here to lead smarter. This … Read More

Summer Strategy | State of Retail: July 2025

retail, consumer behavior, sales strategies, mid-year, online shopping, omnichannel, marketing tips, retail trends, candles, bath and body

It’s summer strategy time! Whether you’re riding a wave of seasonal traffic or seeing things slow down, this is your moment to pause, refocus, and make the most of the months ahead. Can you believe we’re already halfway through 2025? Honestly, that fact alone makes my brain explode a little. It’s wild how fast the year is flying by. So … Read More

Retail Curation | State of Retail: June 2025

retail, curation, inventory management,, consumer psychology, merchandising, retail trends, intentionality, summer, customer engagement, june

Retail Curation: Curate to Connect. How Independent Retailers Can Win Summer with Intention If your store feels a little all over the place right now, you’re definitely not alone. May always ends in a whirlwind, and suddenly it’s June. Some retailers are already seeing slower foot traffic, while others are swamped with tourists. Meanwhile, many are wondering: “should I just … Read More