Tuesday, March 31, 2009

Bancroft Uniforms enjoying great success!

Bancroft Uniforms, located in San Leandro, CA, is a family run operation that has been selling uniforms for over 80 years in San Leandro, CA. This successful business takes pride in meeting their customer's specific needs and providing a quality product. All of their uniforms are made in the USA.

We recently spoke wtih Bruce at Bancroft Uniforms. He says, "Retail Pro has saved my business. If I would have continued to purchase inventory the way I was before using Retail Pro, I would be out of business by now. We are doing well, despite some schools making budget cuts."

Congratulations to Bruce and Bancroft Uniforms for making smart business decisions which has paid off with a successful retail operation.

OUTSIDE-IN Announcing the Grand Opening of OUTSIDE-IN KIDS!

Outside-In and Outside-In Kitchen opened their doors in 1996 in the beautiful coastal community of Aptos, California. Founded by John & Jerri Hammond, a husband and wife team, the stores were created to offer a variety of fine home, garden & kitchen products from around the world.

Outside-In now announces the Grand Opening of its Kids store on April 4, 2009 from 10am to 6pm. Outside-In Kids is located at 7560 Soquel Dr., Aptos, CA, in the Aptos Center. The grand opening will be a fun affair for the whole family. Come and join in the fun - tour the store while snacking on cupcakes and lemonade. There will also be a 15% discount on all purchases at Outside-In Kids.

Outside-In operates a successful webstore. So for those unable to visit them in Aptos, http://www.oihome.com/ is always open.

Big Hairy Dog congratulates Outside-In on its expansion and continued success.

Monday, March 30, 2009

The Winner, Inc. "Swamped with Sales"

The Winner, Inc., in downtown Sharon, Pennsylvania, offers the latest fashions, giftware and collectibles at reduced prices.

The Winner isn't just ANY "Off-Price" fashion store. They have four floors of merchandise - that's over 100,000 square feet - at better than outlet prices. It's no wonder they are swamped with business; they receive new shipments daily, with no seconds or rejects, and NO sales tax on sportswear and careerwear.

We are happy to hear reports of 'over-the-top' sales from The Winner. Another BHD customer finding that this is a good time to be in retail. Check out their website at:
WWW.THEWINNEROUTLET.COM

Hunter Supply says, "Businss is Great!"

Hunter Supply, located in Salinas, CA, is strictly about sport hunting. They stock quality rifles and shotguns, gun safes, gun cases, hunting accessories and apparel. Their booming business is proof of the pride they take in providing a complete, full service hunting shop serving Monterey County and beyond.

We recently spoke with Kevin at Hunter Supply. "Our suppliers are having a hard time keeping up with sales. Business is very good right now; we're having a hard time keeping guns and safes in stock".

BHD knows this is this is the type of 'problem' all retailers want, and congratulate Hunter Supply for their success. You can check out their website at: WWW.HUNTERSSUPPLY.NET

Lafayette Shooters : SALES ARE UP!

"It is a feeding frenzy when it comes to firearms and ammunition. There are many reasons for this, but most importantly sales are increasing, and keeping the revenue in this country," states Lafayette Shooters Sales Manager, Blake Boudreaux.

Big Hairy Dog finds many of its customers who sell guns are enjoying an increase in sales. Lafayette Shooters Wilderness and Western Wear, located in Lafayette, LA is no exception.

Boudreaux is understandably enthusiastic and says, "Business is great and we expect it to continue this way. Sales look promising over here and we are expecting record sales numbers as our business grows outside the boundaries of Acadiana."

Congratulations to Lafayette Shooters!

Thursday, March 26, 2009

INVERNESS - 50% OFF SALE on Web Store!

Inverness, a ski, snowboard and sporting goods store, located in Waitsfield, Vermont, is having a 50% OFF SALE this weekend, Saturday and Sunday, March 28-29. You're not going to be in the Vermont area? No Problem. You can order the sale items online, and this is a sale you won't want to miss!

We spoke with Jennifer from Inverness, and she tells us there are going to be "REALLY BIG KNOCK-DOWN, DRAG-OUT DEALS!!"

How can you get in on these great savings? Just by visiting their website:

www.iskishop.com

Ski and Snowboard shops are very busy this time of year. Let's all help Inverness have a great sale this weekend. Jennifer says, "Thanks a Bunch!"

Herb Bauer Sporting Goods Gun Sales Up 32% from same time last year!

Herb Bauer Sporting Goods has been serving the Central Valley's recreational needs for over sixty years. Located in Fresno, CA, this sporting goods store prepares its customers for their next adventure. Whether you want to climb Half Dome, paddle the whitewater on the Upper Kings River, or fight a Steelie on the Sacramento, Herb Bauer Sporting Goods will have what you need!

We recently spoke with Barry, Owner of Herb Bauer Sporting Goods. He says, "Our gun sales are through the roof! We cant get enough guns to fill the demand. If I could get twice as many guns in stock, I could sell twice as many! The manufacturers just can't keep up with the demand!"

Check out the guns and sporting goods products Herb Bauer has to offer! Visit them online at:
http://www.herbbauersportinggoods.com/Home.html

Congratulations to Herb Bauer Sporting Goods for a fantastic increase in sales!

Zinc Details holding their Annual Sidewalk Sale!

Zinc Details is located in the popular Filmore District of San Francisco. This one-of-a-kind store offers furniture and home accessories chosen because they are, or are destined to become, modern classics.

Owned by Vasilios Kiniris and Wendy Nishimura, both graduates from the College of Environmental Design at the University of California at Berkeley, it is no surprise that their vision is providng products that are functional, durable, and affordable.

You won't want to miss their Annual Sidewalk Sale, this Saturday, March 28, 2009.
The Sale begins at 11:00am and will close at 6:00pm. It will be outside of their store at:
1905 Fillmore Street : San Francisco : CA : 94115 : t.415.776.2100

They tell us you will find amazing deals at this famous sidewalk sale, and adds, "Don't forget to check out our 2410 California store while you are in neighborhood."

Take a peek at their merchandise on their website at: http://www.zincdetails.com/

BHD congratulates Zinc Details! If you are in the area, please stop by and help make their Sidewalk Sale a huge success!!


Martin Ranch Supply receives high ranking in Equestrian Retailer magazine

In a recent survey conducted by Equestrian Retailer magazine, Martin Ranch Supply of Rohnert Park, CA ranks 71st nationally. Founded in 1974, Martin Ranch Supply, a manufacturer and retailer, has been offering quality horse, cattle and other livestock equipment and supplies for 34 years.

“Over the last nearly three years, we have made a conscience effort to increase our product offering. We’ve added entirely new departments, such as clothing, boots and tack, and we have expanded existing departments, such as gifts and home décor, to become the proverbial one stop shop. And now, we are very pleased to announce that we have partnered with the leading horse and livestock trailer manufacturer in the country. As a full line dealer for Miley, Exiss and Sooner trailers, we have assembled an all-star line-up. These new lines compliment our existing lines, all of which offer great quality and value. Customers deserve value for their dollar and we provide value.”, says Lyle Smith, president of Martin Ranch Supply.

“We’ve always been known for the high quality and great valued products we manufacture. We’ve also earned a reputation for our extensive inventory of fencing supplies and gates, and for stocking the hard to find items that our customers need. With our continuing expansion and our very knowledgeable staff, we have a full product offering that attracts many different types of customers, from the horse owner to the homeowner. We don’t cut corners and we pride ourselves on the detail. If we don’t provide the ultimate in customer service, I feel that we have failed our customer.”, Smith adds.

We hope you will take a few minutes and visit this great customer's expansive showroom located at 5980 Redwood Drive in Rohnert Park, where Martin Ranch Supply provides over 2.5 acres of quality merchandise, great values and invaluable, unrushed advice. You don’t need to own a horse or cow to find this home and ranch store a valuable local resource. They can be reached by phone at 707-585-1313 or online at www.martinranchsupply.com.

BHD Congratulates Martin Ranch Supply for their success!

Monday, March 16, 2009

Retail Pro Customer Loyalty Interface Increasing Sales!

We are hearing from customers that the 'Customer Loyalty' interface to Retail Pro is bringing loyal customers into the store more often, and these same customers are spending more on purchases. Jonathan from Mr. S. Leather in San Francisco, CA says, "Customer Loyalty is working perfectly to maintain happy customers. Even though we can't measure 'word-of-mouth' business, I can measure that our loyal customers come in more frequently and spend more money." Mr. S. Leather gives their customers their loyalty dollars at the time of purchase.

Cara, from Lewis & Clark Outfitters, in Springdale, AR similarly says, "The Customer Loyalty program is definately bringing the 'loyal customer' in more often with a higher average ticket. We find that our 'loyal customers' make up about 20% of our customer base, but are responsible for 40% of our sales. They have a healthy margin, even while using the points, they shop more often and spend about $25 more each visit."

BHD has been providing Features of the Month which spotlight Retail Pro Reports that can increase profits for your retail business. Please read the BHD February and March newsletters for more details, and look for the April newsletter coming soon.

We say it often: Big Hairy Dog is committed to YOUR success. We want to help you through education, service, customizations, upgrades, and any way we can, to help your profits increase, and your business succeed. Please let us know how we can help you. Call us at 800-377-7776.

Sunday, March 15, 2009

Retail Sales UP from last year!

March 12, 2009:
According to the U.S. Department of Commerce, Retail Sales in the United States are up in the first months of 2009.

Retail sales In December, 2008 were $302.8 billion, with January, 2009 showing an increase of 1.8% to $308.4 billion, and down only slightly in February, 2009 by .1% (1/10th of 1%) to $308.1 billion.

Many retailers are finding there are great opportunties in the retail industry today. It's wise in any economy to know where every penny of your inventory is, and to be able to identify where to invest for successful earnings in the year ahead.

Thursday, March 12, 2009

Neccessories nominated for 'Entrepreneur to Watch"

Neccessories, located in Frederick, MD, opened their doors for business just 3 months ago. They fill an important and unique niche in the retail industry, supplying upscale items that every woman needs. Offering bath & body products, as well as items for women's fashion, home and office, this smart retailer is a one-stop-shop for women who want it all.

Jackie Lamothe, owner of Neccessories, has been nominated for "Entrepreneur to Watch" by a local business periodical in the Maryland area. Jackie proudly told us, "Not bad for a 3 month old business!" We agree! Congratulations to Jackie and Neccessories for their success!

http://www.theneccessories.com/

Wednesday, March 11, 2009

Douglas Ranch Supply opening 2nd Store

Douglas Ranch Supply was established in 1980, and is located in Granite Bay, CA. This successful family-owned business is committed to providing the finest animal feeds available to their customers.

In February, 2009, Douglas Ranch Supply opened their second store in the Denio's Livestock Auction Yard in Roseville, CA. Denio's Auction is a well-established and hugely popular market, frequented by locals as well as those who come from far away to shop.

Congratulations to Douglas Ranch Supply on their expansion. Check our their website at:
WWW.DOUGLASRANCHSUPPLY.COM

Friday, March 6, 2009

Mountain High Ski Resort: "Business is Good"

Mountain High Ski Resort is opening their 5th retail store this week located in Wrightwood California, up in the mountains of San Gabriel. This new store is conveniently located just 15 minutes off I-15 with no mountain driving but lots of good snow and equipment to rent or purchase.

Albert works in Mountain High's IT department, and says, "Business is good. The weather has been good at most of the resorts and they are expecting more snow and good skiing and snowboarding conditiions." See for yourself the beauty of the area by checking out their website:
http://www.mthigh.com/

Congratulations to Mountain High Ski Resort. BHD is proud of your success.

Thursday, March 5, 2009

Pet Extreme opening an 8th Retail Store

Pet Extreme has 7 stores in the Northern California area, and is opening an 8th Retail Store in Woodland, CA. Located in Gateway's Cosco Center, the Grand Opening will be on April 18th, 2009.

The store encompasses 1,800 sq. ft. and is using pet graphic wall paintings ranging from 11 to 24 feet to separate the 14 individual areas of the store. It's a fun place to visit, with fun offerings for pet lovers. Submit a story about your pet and what makes him/her so special in your life and your story may be posted on their website. They offer a free dog wash, with the purchase of $50 of products.

Pet Extreme also has a successful webstore at: http://www.petextreme.com. They plan to expand further in the Northern California area in the coming years.

Congratulations to another successful BHD customer!!



Sales are UP at The Fly Shop

The BHD Service Department calls customers regularly just to make sure things are going well. It's a good chance to check in, say hello and see if there is anything we can help them with.

We recently spoke to Tim, the Retail Pro Manager at The Fly Shop. Tim reported that SALES WERE UP 40% in Janaury, 2009. The Fly Shop has a very special niche in the retail industry, selling equipment and gear for fishing, and specializing in the popular sport of fly fishing. Big Hairy Dog is always happy to hear good news from our customers and pass them along. Congratulations to The Fly Shop!

http://www.theflyshop.com/

Business is GREAT at Village Ski Loft!

It's been raining in the Sacramento Valley, but in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, the snow if falling hard!! We recently heard from the Retail Pro Manager at Village Ski Loft, located in Incline Village, Nevada. He reports that the snow is great up there and BUSINESS IS BOOMING!!

For those of you who are skiiers, grab your skis, put on your chains and head up the mountain. Don't forget to stop in and say hello to our friends at Village Ski Loft.

WWW.VILLAGESKILOFT.COM

Wednesday, March 4, 2009

Lee's Feed and Western is Expanding!!

Lees' Feed and Western store has been in business for nearly 30 years. The original store opened in 1980 by Mike and Susan Lee. In 1986, they moved to Shingle Springs, CA, and have continued to service the needs of the Shingle Springs community ever since.

They recently expanded their business and opened another store in Lockeford, CA, about 60 miles southwest of Shingle Springs. They are enjoying a boost in their sales and business overall. Owner, Mike Lee, says, "We want to branch out for a wider customer base."

For more information about Lee's Feed and Western, visit their website at: www.leesfeed.com.
And for those of you in the area, stop by and say hello.

Congratulations to another successful BHD customer!

Tuesday, March 3, 2009

Deckers Sales are UP!!

Deckers builds niche products into global lifestyle brands by designing and marketing innovative, functional and fashion-oriented footwear. With stores throughout the east and west coasts, Deckers offers three primary product lines including Teva®, Simple® and UGG®, each an iconic brand, and continuing to gain in popularity in the US and UK.

Sales for Deckers are up, as seen in their 2008 Q4 highlights:
-Net sales increased 56.3% from the previous year
-Domestic sales increased 59.5% from the previous year
-International sales increased 21.3% from the previous year
-UGGr brand sales increased 62.0% from the previous year

Congratulations to Deckers, another BHD customer, whose business is thriving.

World of Wonders Science Museum Opening

The World of Wonders Science Museum has been in planning and construction for five years. There have been some bumps along the way, as would be expected in this type of endeavor. In spite of all setbacks they have experienced, they are very excited to announce the World of Wonders Science Museum will be opening their doors to the public at the Grand Opening Celebration the weekend of March 7-8, 2009.

Located in downtown Lodi, CA, the museum is a wonderful 'hands-on' experience for children of all ages, as well as adults. To find out more about the museum, check out their website at:
http://www.wowsciencemuseum.org/

Another Big Hairy Dog customer making a positive difference. Please drop by and support the Museum in its efforts towards the education of science.