SmallBusinessNewz

How Businesses Can Capitalize on New Consumer Trends

A new study from the National Retail Federation and BIGresearch bears good news for all. The research found that Americans are becoming more generous with their spending habits, especially in regards to small luxury items.

Advertising in the Year 2010

Now that 2009 is behind us, everybody is looking forward to a year of success, and anticipating marketing and advertising trends of the new year and the new decade. What trends do you anticipate? Share them here.

Part 2: Holiday Trends for 2009

As evidenced in our previous article on the first 5 holiday trends for 2009, the economy is still greatly impacting both consumers and retailers. Unfortunately, the next 5 trends from Phil Rist of BIGresearch and Ellen Davis of the National Retail Federation send the same message.

Part 1: Holiday Trends for 2009

It's hard to believe that it's already time to start holiday shopping. According to the recent National Retail Federation's 2009 Holiday Consumer Intentions and Actions survey, it looks like the early bird may get the only worm. The survey, conducted by BIGresearch, found that consumers are aggressively looking for bargains this year. In addition, retailers are greatly cutting back on their inventory due to weak demand. In other words, it's going to be a push-and-pull battle between retailers and consumers.

Email Marketing: Trends of the Past, Predictions for the Future

I spoke with a representative for Campaigner who turned me on to an interesting reflection on the year's trends and challenges for small business email marketing, as well as some predictions for 2009. I thought these would be worth sharing. 2008 "Many small businesses looked beyond mass/blast email tactics and practiced more targeted and relevant 1to1 communications," says Campaigner.

Franchises and the Economy

Starting a business can be tough in this economy. As you're probably well aware, it's tough to raise capital to get off the ground. People don't want to invest, particularly in something has yet to be proven successful. This might be one reason that opening a franchise could prove to be a more reachable goal. While still not a sure shot, there are some areas that are looking more favorable than others.

Are You Spending Enough Time Learning?

 It's an age old saying, but it will never change. Without trying to sound like an NBC public service announcement, the more you know, the more you will be able to use that knowledge in your own life, or in this case, business. A business owner's time is limited, but some of that time should be used for learning. Always. Spend some time (each day if possible) just reading and learning about new tactics, strategies and trends related to your niche.

Study: Artisans' Future so Bright, They Gotta Wear Shades

A study from Intuit, authored by the Institute for the Future, is saying that artisans will be the brightest stars in the future of small business. Basically they're saying that these "next generation" artisans will be able to utilize technology in the next ten years as it continues to advance to "amplify their reach and capabilities."