The Indie Retailer's Response to Tariffs by Creating a Service Business

Retailers should consider diversifying their offerings beyond buying and selling products. Providing services or renting out space during off-hours can generate additional income and increase foot traffic, leading to increased product sales.

Collaborating with other small businesses can be beneficial, and services you could offer include customization and engraving, travel planning, closet cleaning and organization, subscription boxes (especially for out-of-town clients), trip packing and styling, and curated travel experiences. Outdoor stores can create unique trips for customers, and leasing store space for yoga or other workshops before opening, or hosting special events, can also be lucrative.

These ideas enhance the experience and can build stronger relationships with your clients. I encourage you to meet with your staff and target some specific areas, especially where you might have internal expertise and get started on building some new energy and excitement and focus.

Onwards and Upwards,

Marc Weiss

Co- Founder Management One