USA: Sears Holdings is bringing layaway back to its namesake stores next week, nearly two decades after it was scrapped, after seeing a strong response to the pay-as-you-go plan at its Kmart locations. 18 Nov 2008

With organic living becoming a preference for health conscious individuals, ‘going green' and living closer to nature has received increased focus.
17 Nov 2008

Cash strapped consumers affected by the economic downturn are changing their shopping behaviour. This according to Stephen Mawby, MD of Glendinning Management Consultants, who says that retailers will have to respond to changing consumer needs as the economic climate forces shoppers to be more considered in their buying habits. 13 Nov 2008

Enterprise organisations often think of customer service as an unavoidable fact of business, a necessary expense. Rethink customer service, however, and it can become a strategic weapon that fosters growth and competitive advantage. 11 Nov 2008

As the economy continues to decline, retailers are fighting a fierce battle for a share of the consumer's wallet. Every customer counts, but the loyal customers are particularly valuable, especially when your competitor is just a click away. 10 Nov 2008

Gone are the days of quaint tailors on cobbled streets, shopkeepers that know your name and product preference by heart, and shops that thrived off a client base of a mere 40 customers. Looking back to the 19th century a lot has changed over the years but the customer focus remains the same and has again come into the limelight, only this time on a much larger scale. 5 Nov 2008

Most retailers experience a downturn in a weak economy. As consumers rein in spending, a downturn is usually not distributed equally among all retailers. The extent of the downturn depends on a number of factors, including geographic location of stores, product categories being sold and specific market segments. In order to survive a tightening economic climate, retailers must focus on their short- and long-term objectives. 5 Nov 2008