I know you have many concerns and challenges as 2010 starts  but with Xmas and inventory clearances in place for this month - This is what you should be focusing on right now in this  first week of January 2010.

This is my to do list for you.

Review:

2009 Xmas sales
2009 sales totals
2009 marketing initiatives
2009 operating cost
2009 buying budgets

Immediate goals  on my to do list for you:

2010 projected sales targets - let's assume 15% increase

2010 proposed marketing strategies

2010 projected buying budgets and projected operating costs

I have the knowledge to help you . You need to stay focused on your business . Reviewing and Planning is what you need to be doing right now.

Do not go to Market to buy this month or next with out checking out my newest Retail Makeover - Getting Ready to Buy coaching program  (link)  -   http://www.barbaracrowhurst.com/grb.html

Contact me today. Let's get started.

Best

Barbara

I'm b-a-a-a-a-ck.

I was only on vacation for seven days but I always return from time away renewed. My vacations are always busman's holidays. I mean, how can they not be? Unless I avoid shopping assiduously and what fun would that be? So, you could also say, I'm back from some business travel.

I am not the only one who finds that travel benefits my business. Two studies (two!) released this month found a direct link between spending on business travel and increased company profits. That the studies were sponsored by US Travel Association and the National Business Travel Association shouldn't diminish their credibility. I mean, on the trip I just took, the book I was reading (FREE: The Future of a Radical Price by Chris Anderson) gave me at least a dozen new marketing ideas. That aspect of my vacation alone will contribute to my bottom line.

High Profile, Carpet Focused Designer Day Panel Captivates Attendees

It was so refreshing to hear that David Romanoff of Romanoff Products, Silverio Baranda of Kalco Krafts, Virginia Newman of Pennoyer Newman and Edward Vanegs of Suburban Silk all agreed that business was better than expected at the Summer 2009 New York International Gift Show.  And much like these seasoned professionals mentioned above, there were some very exciting new companies that had the same sentiments at the show!

I spent Monday of last week at the Fancy Food Show, and I am delighted to report that it was very busy.  At times, it was actually difficult to walk down the aisles and many of the manufacturers that we wanted to speak with, were knee deep in attendees, so that we either had to miss them altogether or make our way back to their booths several times.

For me personally, it was a trip down memory lane.  I haven't been to the Fancy Food Show since I was a little girl, and my father ran the show!  Yes, a long time ago.

Even before I hit the trade show floors at the 55th Summer Fancy Food Show, I knew something great was in the air.  First of all, it was standing room only on the trade show bus and filled with passengers from around the world!  The main floor of the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center was bustling and packed with early morning arrivals.  Instead of hearing about how everyone is cutting back in this economy, I was surprised to see that this group of purchasers appeared to be eagerly anticipating the three days of shopping that lay ahead!

Hi I'm new to the Internet business, and looking forward in building a one of a kind web following. Hope I'll be able to give great customer service, so the customers will not only come back to purchase, but to also just enjoy my great website presents and products. 

I spent the last few days at the National Stationery Show, walking the aisles, speaking to manufacturers and finding some great new products.  Personally, I am happy that I am not a buyer, because I am sure that I would find it difficult to choose which merchandise to buy for my store with all the great products I discovered!

Overall, I was really delighted to find the mood upbeat.  Those that I spoke with had POSITIVE things to say, in light of, and with acknowledgement that times are difficult...