PODCAST Biz503: Reinventing Retail

Are you working harder than ever in your retail business, but feel like you’re running in place? With constant changes on the ground and online, shifting consumer trends challenge entrepreneurs to start reinventing the retail industry daily.

According to the National Retail Federation, shop owners have reason for optimism: With (sporadic) economic growth, rising wages and low gas prices, consumers have more discretionary income. And, retail sales (which exclude automobiles, gas stations and restaurants) are projected to grow by 3.1 percent this year, higher than the 10-year average of 2.7 percent.

But how are bricks-and-mortar outfits navigating the headwinds of online shopping? And, how can your brand stand out in the cacophony of online marketing?

We’ve assembled an A-list panel of experts who will zoom in on retail trends – whether digital or storefront – on this week’s Biz503. Join Mark Grimes of NedSpace and Perry Gruber of Copiosis and the Transamorous Network this Friday at 1 p.m. for a lively panel discussion about Reinventing Retail. Tune into the stream at PRP.fm or join us at 99.1 fm in the heart of Portland.

Special thanks to our new Biz503 sponsor PCC CLIMB!

Our Biz503 panel for February 12 includes:

Leslie Hildula – Business Adviser/Adjunct Faculty, PCC SBDC, Retail Small Business Management

Alisa Pyszka – Senior Associate, Leland Consulting Group

Katie Boeh – Owner/Founder, Fox and Bear Urban Farm

Richard Koehler, Founder, Folk Built

Dan Stiles – Co-Founder, Stubborn Stiles

Jon MacDonald – Founder/President, The Good

Anna Van Tol – Founder/Owner, It’s Only Love Activewear

Jared Goodman, Founder/Owner, Morgan St. Theater

Please Note: PCC CLIMB’s Small Business Development Center is launching a new Retail Small Business Management course Feb. 22, 2016.