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Let's hope for a tasty market

Furniture Today Staff -- Furniture Today, January 30, 2012

Let’s hope a tasty market Even though we're still getting mixed signals from the nightly news regarding the health of the economy, recent discussions with retailers and suppliers would indicate the economy is heading in the right direction.
     Those perceptions were reinforced, in part, by the successful outcomes of two recent home furnishings shows in Toronto and Atlanta. In both instances, retailers, looking for fresh new looks to maintain brisk fourth-quarter sales, wrote orders.
     This week, as the curtain goes up at the Las Vegas Market, the table has been set for what we all hope will be a replay of the favorable outcomes experienced in Toronto and in Atlanta.
     And speaking of a set table, it dawned on me how much a successful restaurant and a successful home furnishings operation actually have in common.
     Location, location, location: For starters, the success of each operation is significantly impacted by the right location. While consumers don't mind going a bit off the beaten path, they are not likely to eat - or to shop - in some remote place.
     Point of view: Successful restaurants and home furnishing stores need to have a distinct point of view. Mention Ruth's Chris and you have me thinking steak. Say Red Lobster and I think seafood.
     Mention Jordan's Furniture and I think of experiential retail at its best. Ask me about Ikea and that big blue and yellow logo comes to mind, along with funky presentations of everyday-priced furniture.
     Presentation: Every good restaurant owner knows that no matter how great the food is, an unsavory presentation doesn't cut it. Put another way, we first taste the food on our plate with our eyes.
     The need for outstanding presentation is no less important on your selling floor.
     Service: Ever notice how exceptional service can and does elevate a fine meal into an unforgettable one?
     To me, whether I am in a restaurant or shopping for furniture, my definition of great service is the same: I want the person helping me to be knowledgeable, attentive and genuine.
     I've shared some of what I believe are the essential ingredients to any retailer's success.
     Have a successful market and buon appetito!

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