Retail 101: Learning What Not to Do⠀⠀

Like most things in life, trial and error is often how you end up working out what works and doesn’t work. I don’t think there is a single blueprint for retail success, if there was, we’d all be doing it!⠀ So what have we learnt not to do here at the gallery since we opened? I’d say first and foremost absolutely do NOT compare yourself with other businesses – it’s a slippery slope that can lead you down a rabbit hole of self-doubt, feeling like crap, thinking that you’re rubbish and everyone else is amazingly successful.

The advent of social media has only heightened this, and I’ve spent many an hour in the past on Instagram and Facebook looking at other people’s retail spaces feeling so disheartened. You can certainly learn from other retailers and be inspired by them but try to avoid comparisons.

What you have to offer to customers is unique to you, it’s not just about the products you sell, but your philosophy, dreams and values which people buy into. This is why having a diverse and vibrant high street full of independent retailers is what every town needs! ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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So my lovelies, whether you’re a retailer, artist or maker keep doing what you’re doing and as the wonderful @mattzhaig says “the internet age encourages choice and comparison, but don’t do this to yourself. ‘Comparison is the thief of joy’ said Theodore Roosevelt. You are you”