American Retail Consulting©

My margins are sinking, what should I do?

I have vendor and credit card payments that I can't make, what can I do?

My sales keep slipping, what am I doing wrong?

How do I position my brand in the marketplace?

Why can another store sell the same thing I'm selling and still make a profit while I struggle?

    These are real-world questions that business managers ask.  They ask their friends, co-workers, customers and family for answers.  That could be another problem!  These people may have your best interests in heart, but they don't have the real-world experience to provide you with qualified solutions.  Let's face it, most of us think we know how to run our business.  And most of the time, we're right.  But when real challenges are presented to us, we need real input and real advice that will provide authentic direction.

    I've been there.  With over 20 years practical retail experience and over 15 years of entrepreneurial retail business ownership, there are few bumps I've not tripped over.  Additionally, I have a Bachelors Degree in Business Administration with a minor in Computer Programming.  Like other small businesses, I have worn all the hats in my business.  That requires a lot of focus.  Corporations have dozens of people to handle each task.  Their departmentalized and  specialized.  You are one.  You may have several people to divide up tasks, but you all are doing all you can, and more.

    Experience is available in the following categories:

Business Plan Review and Trial

Visual Merchandising

Brand Management

Market Positioning

Inventory Assessment

Strategic Planning

Contract & Purchasing Negotiation

    Each evaluation is custom tailored to your individual needs.  There's no "formula answer" here.  Since each case is reviewed and analyzed based on its own merit, the answer will be specific to your needs and wants.  The process can be as in-depth as you want, or it could be a 45 minute phone call.  You decide.

Costs using a consultant from a corporate consulting firm can be quite expensive.  My rates are reasonable. They're geared towards solutions that work when you want them too (usually NOW!).  Though I can be with you for the long haul, I won't make you long drawn-out plans that try to make me more money.  You can choose the level of involvement that you need.  Don't short change yourself.  Allow me the time to gain a full understanding of your business with you.

Involvement Levels:

Hourly - $175

Daily $800 + Expenses

Project - Varies

Monthly Retainer - $4000 (Two month minimum)

Contract & Purchasing Negotiation may require a commission dependant on the final value negotiated.

Ready to work together?  Let's get started!  Email me dave@exoticimports.com give me a brief description of your issues and I'll call you back to speak with you about options.