By Moe Lastfogel Director of Sales and Marketing for The Retail Observer ![]() Trend creates more educated appliance and housewares buyers Over the last few decades, the popularity of cooking shows have reached an all-time high. Cooking is no longer hidden in weekend PBS or local cable shows. It has become mainstream and even a part of primetime TV. Movies about chefs and restaurateurs have been met by great reviews and they just keep coming. But what does that mean to you as a Retailer in today’s Epicurean craze? My feeling is that it creates more opportunity. Gone are the “I just need any old stove to replace the one I have” days. Today, consumers want more—more power, more options and more colors. They are asking about BTU’s, steam, speed cooking, induction, convection, smart technologies and even sous vide and blast chilling. These phrases are new to many of your customers’ vocabularies. You have the opportunity to educate them about these options, and most of all, upgrade the kitchen packages that you sell. I recently returned from the International Home and Housewares show in Chicago and I was blown away by all the new toys available to these up-and- coming Chopped Champions. I saw new induction pan and burner sets that spoke to each other via bluetooth, blenders that weighed the food and made sure your recipes were on spot with an app and even a food caviar maker that created small food filled balls to make flavored and colorful garnishes. This creates another opportunity in your stores and that’s housewares as an add on sale. If they can spend $20,000 on new appliances, what’s another $1,000 for some new pots and pans and countertop appliances? Give consumers what they want by following these cooking trends. For you, it’s extra profit and for them it’s the next step up to becoming a culinary genius. Happy Retailing, Moe Lastfogel [email protected]
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By Moe Lastfogel Director of Sales and Marketing for The Retail Observer ![]() In today’s world it can be very dif cult and sometimes frustrating to just wait for customers to walk through your door. When I worked the oor I found that networking was the best way to bring more customers to me. Here are some tips that can make it easier. Keep in mind that networking is about being yourself, building trust and relationships, getting help and helping others. Pick networking groups that focus on your industry, spark your interest and can get you to your desired goal; increased sales. I found that NKBA, ASID and NARI meetings were great places to meet designers and contractors. At an Apartment Association trade show in Northern California, I came across a regional facilities manager looking to add laundry into a 1000 unit complex. We started a discussion regarding vented verses non- vented dryers. This conversation turned into an order for 1000 combo units delivered 2 months later and a few years later we did another order for an 800 unit complex. The client was able to add $150 per unit to the monthly rent - a profitable transaction for both of us. Holding volunteer positions is another great way to stay visible and give back to networking groups that have helped you. If you become a resource for others in the group, people will turn to you for suggestions, ideas, names of other people and most importantly, business referrals. When you get referrals, remember to follow up with them quickly and efficiently since your actions are a reflection on those that refer you. Respect and honor this and your referrals will grow. Networking can be as simple as a hello and a business card exchange. So, get out there, ask some questions, meet some people and have some fun. Happy Retailing, Moe Lastfogel [email protected] |
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December 2021
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