Retailer Resource Blog

  • July 2025 Industry Update

    New! July 2025: Industry Update with Doug Cofiell

    Posted: 7/21/2025
    In this midyear update, Ivystone CEO Doug Cofiell shares key insights on the current state of the retail industry. From the ongoing impact of tariffs to seasonal inventory timing, Doug breaks down what retailers need to know as they plan for the second half of 2025. While some categories like Halloween and holiday may see slight delays, strong vendor planning has kept most goods on track. Despite economic uncertainty, consumer engagement remains steady—and the outlook for the remainder of the year is optimistic.

    Read More Here

  • Retailer Excellence Awards 2025 Recap

    New! Retailer Excellence Awards 2025 Recap

    Posted: 6/23/2025
    The 2025 Retailer Excellence Awards brought together the gift and home industry to celebrate standout retailers across eight distinct categories, from sustainability to store design. Held at Union Station in Dallas, the event highlighted innovation, community engagement, and creative excellence.

    Read More Here

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Summer Market Must-Haves

Summer Market Must-Haves

Our marketing team traveled to Dallas, Atlanta, and Las Vegas and highlighted customer favorites straight from the market floor.

Selling for the Senses

Selling for the Senses

Incorporating sensory experiences such as offering coffee or wine in boutiques can help increase foot traffic and encourage customers to spend more time browsing the store.

July 2023 Industry Update with Doug Cofiell

July 2023 Industry Update with Doug Cofiell

Ivystone CEO Doug Cofiell shares his insight into how the current economy, combined with available technologies, will create balance for our gift and home retailers for the remainder of the year.

Personal Shopping

Personal Shopping

By offering personal shopping services, small retailers can build strong connections with customers, differentiate themselves from competitors, and potentially increase revenue while providing an exceptional shopping experience.

Strategies for eCommerce Success

Strategies for eCommerce Success

Discover strategic questions to ask yourself as a retailer to build eCommerce success, long before you consider which technology platforms to build your website on.

Live Selling: Setting the Stage

Live Selling: Setting the Stage

Are you intrigued by the concept of selling live on social media, but aren't sure what it would take to get started in your store? Discover the technology and tools you'll need to begin.

Live Selling: Formats

Live Selling: Formats

Live selling on social media can be accomplished through a variety of formats. Learn three different styles from real retailers around the country.

Live Selling: Making Plans

Live Selling: Making Plans

As with any marketing tactic, hosting live sales online takes time and planning. Once you have settled on a format and made any technology and lighting purchases needed, you will want to create an actionable plan for hosting your first several events.

Retail Workshops: Engage Customers Through Creativity

Retail Workshops: Engage Customers Through Creativity

Hosting workshops is an excellent way to engage with your customers, build a community around your store, increase brand loyalty, and generate revenue. Learn more about why you should consider hosting workshops if you are not already, as well as tips to ensure success.

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