Learning Hub

LearningHub

Discounting Holiday Merchandise: Retailers Deploy a Variety of Effective Strategies December 23, 2024 - There is no one set time or date that all stores swear by is the best day of the year to discount holiday merchandise. Some choose to go as early as late November, others the beginning of the month, some the week before Christmas and still others on December 26 or even in January. 
Alicia’s Secret to Relaxation: hydraAromatherapy Roller Balls December 16, 2024 - Alicia Rightmer, an independent sales rep based in Houston, has a talent for finding products that her customers will love—and her personal favorite is hydraAromatherapy roller balls. Made in the USA, these high-quality aromatherapy oil blends offer a perfect balance of luxury, function, and repeat customer appeal. Here’s why Alicia is a devoted fan and recommends hydraAromatherapy to retailers and customers alike.
Cowgirl Chic: The Wild West Gets a Modern Makeover December 12, 2024 - Cowgirl Chic is back and better than ever, making fashion and home décor waves thanks to musical icons like Beyoncé, Dolly Parton, and Miley Cyrus. This trend blends traditional Western elements—think cowboy boots, fringe details, and wide-brim hats—with contemporary silhouettes and modern twists.
I Spy BI: Visual Merchandising Ideas to Inspire November 26, 2024 - Have you ever wondered how Boston International products could transform your store’s holiday displays? With their thoughtfully curated collections, Boston International makes it easy to integrate their wholesale merchandise with items you already stock. Check out this guide to stunning display ideas to spark your imagination...
Three Luxurious Scents, One Incredible Detergent: Thomas Blonde November 20, 2024 - Lauren Billingsley, the Alabama and Florida Panhandle independent sales rep, has a knack for discovering brands that transform the ordinary into something extraordinary. When it comes to Thomas Blonde, it’s no surprise this Oklahoma-based, woman-owned brand has earned her enthusiastic praise...
Preparing for the Holiday Season: A Step-by-Step Guide November 6, 2024 - A few weeks ago, Road Runners co-hosted a retailer webinar with our partner The Boutique Hub. The holiday season is retailers' busiest and most profitable time of the year, but with these advance planning tips, hopefully it can be a little stressful. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get ahead of the game.
Effortless: Fabulous Without the Fuss October 28, 2024 - Experience the Effortless trend and radiate confidence and style without breaking a sweat! This collection is curated for those seeking a polished, ‘million bucks’ look with minimal effort. Whether running errands, attending an event, or entertaining at home, these picks help your customers feel fabulous without the fuss.
Why Nan Loves Kalastyle: A Go-To for Natural, Sea-Inspired Products October 21, 2024 - Nan Murfee, an independent sales rep serving Dallas and East Texas, is known for her keen eye when selecting top-tier products. As a trusted rep in the gift and personal care industry, Nan’s go-to home and personal care recommendation is Kalastyle, a brand she believes stands out for its quality, natural ingredients, and coastal inspiration.
Gift Industry Unites for Hurricane Relief: Rebuilding After Helene and Milton October 14, 2024 - After Hurricanes Helene and Milton struck Western North Carolina and Florida, the gift industry is stepping up to provide crucial support. Organizations like Heart on Main Street and Gift for Life showcase the industry’s commitment to supporting local economies, local retailers, and helping communities recover from disaster.
Scent Story: Capturing Moments Through Fragrance October 3, 2024 - There’s something deeply personal about scent. It can transport us to a favorite memory, evoke feelings of comfort, or set the tone for an experience. As we move into Scent Story, we embrace the idea that fragrances do more than smell good—they tell a tale. From fresh coastal breezes to warm, cozy fireplaces, the brands leading this trend have mastered capturing emotions and moments in a bottle or candle. Here’s a look at six brands redefining how we connect with scents...
Small Business, Big Impact: Get Ready for Pink Friday 2024 September 24, 2024 - As an independent retailer, Pink Friday is not just another event-it's a unique opportunity to showcase your business, attract new customers, and kick off the holiday season with a bang.  Created in 2020 by The Boutique Hub, Pink Friday encourages shoppers to #ShopSmallFirst by promoting local and small businesses before the frenzy of Black Friday. This is your chance to be part of a movement that celebrates small retailers like you, boosting the vibrancy and diversity of local economies nationwide.
Boosting Sales at Checkout: 3 Simple Strategies for Retailers September 16, 2024 - As an independent gift shop owner, increasing the size of a sale at checkout can significantly impact your bottom line. While offering unique and thoughtful products is essential, the key to maximizing each transaction lies in a few simple yet effective strategies. Here are three easy tips you can implement today to boost sales at the checkout counter...
Kristina Kase’s Favorite: Why Inis The Energy of the Sea is a Must-Have September 9, 2024 - As an independent sales rep in the bustling Orange County territory, Kristina Kase knows a quality product when she sees one. With years of experience in the industry, she’s mastered the art of curating brands that meet her clients' needs and deliver consistent results. When asked about her top pick, Kristina quickly highlighted...
Join the Community Changing the Retail Industry: The Boutique Hub August 26, 2024 - Finding the right support system and resources can make all the difference in a successful retail business. That’s where The Boutique Hub comes in—a thriving community empowering businesses since its founding in 2013. As the largest professional organization in the retail industry, The Hub is built on Community over Competition, creating a network where businesses collaborate and grow stronger.
Girls’ Night Out: Celebrate the Power of Female Friendship August 21, 2024 - There’s something magical about a Girls’ Night Out—a time to celebrate the bonds that tie us together in friendship, love, and laughter. Whether you’re hitting the town in style, throwing a bachelorette bash, or keeping it cozy at home with a charcuterie board that’s almost too pretty to eat, these moments are about embracing positivity and cheer.
Retailer Spotlight: Hazel + Dot August 13, 2024 - In the heart of Tampa Bay, gift shop owners are constantly looking for inspiration to set their stores apart. Today, I’m excited to introduce you to Allison Bernardi, the creative force behind Hazel + Dot, a unique home and gift shop that has captured the local community's heart...
Understanding Your Customers: Strategies for Gift Shop Success with 8 Shopper Profiles July 19, 2024 - In my experience and research, there are eight different types of customers. While there’s no scientific proof, I believe customers have multiple personalities. So, you don’t always know who is walking in the door. Let’s start with some of the easy ones...
Support Independent Retailers for Back-to-School Shopping July 9, 2024 - As the back-to-school season approaches, parents are gearing up to spend nearly 22% more on supplies this year, according to a July 2, 2024 article from retaildive.com. While large retailers may offer convenience, shopping at independent retailers provides unique benefits and supports local communities. Here are some fantastic brands you can find at independent stores to make this back-to-school season special...
Statement of the Summer: Charm Bars by Lotus Jewelry Studio July 2, 2024 - Elevate your accessory game with the latest trend taking summer markets by storm: Charm Bars! This summer, Lotus Jewelry Studio introduced their incredible Charm Bar program at the Dallas Summer Market, and it was an instant hit, selling out in no time. Here’s why this trend is capturing hearts and how you can be a part of it.
Shop Local, Order Local: Reps Are Local Too June 5, 2024 - Main Street USA retailers have long embraced the “Shop Local” movement, a powerful initiative aimed at encouraging consumers to support local businesses. This movement has been instrumental in reminding consumers of the importance of keeping their spending within their communities, thereby fostering local economies and ensuring vibrant, thriving main streets. Now, there's a new initiative on the horizon that aims to extend this local-first mentality to another crucial aspect of retail: ordering with local sales reps.
Hot Picks for Summer 2024: The Road Runners’ Guide to Shopping Summer Markets May 23, 2024 - This is the busiest time of the entire year, so we’ll keep this post brief. We’re excited to bring you the most anticipated issue yet – Our Summer Market 2024 Buyers Guide. Designed exclusively for you, this guide is packed with insights, trend reports, and new product introductions that will undoubtedly help you in the coming months.
What I learned last week: The Power of the Personal Touch May 6, 2024 - In today's fast-paced retail world, having a reliable sales network is crucial to your success. This past week, the gift and home industry experienced first-hand the value and importance of the local sales representative who not only know the market but also have the agility to navigate unforeseen challenges. During the MarketTime software outage, our local reps have stepped up to the plate and showcased the invaluable benefits of working with a trusted sales partner.
4ocean: Cleaning Our Oceans, One Bracelet at a Time April 19, 2024 - In a world where environmental concerns are increasingly at the forefront of our collective consciousness, it's heartening to see initiatives that not only address pressing issues but also offer tangible solutions. One such initiative is 4ocean, a brand that has taken the responsibility of cleaning our oceans to heart. Through their innovative approach, they not only remove tons of trash from our waters but also empower communities and raise awareness about the importance of conservation.
Forget the Tie! Our Top Picks for Father’s Day April 15, 2024 - Father's Day is just around the corner, and it's time to celebrate the dads and grandpas with thoughtful gifts matching their interests and passions. Whether dad is a grill master, a cocktail connoisseur, or an office whiz, we've curated a gift guide featuring top-notch products from brands catering to his every need and desire. Here's a breakdown of our top trending picks retailers should carry in their store.
Celebrate the Everyday April 4, 2024 - In a world that's been through so much, there's a prevailing sentiment emerging: it's time to celebrate the everyday. As consumers seek out moments of positivity, affirmation, and joy, a new trend has taken hold—one that encourages us to find reasons to rejoice in the small victories, to embrace the moments of togetherness, and to infuse our lives with color and cheer.
Shower Mom with Love May 12th: A Guide to Unforgettable Mother’s Day Gifts! March 20, 2024 - Mother's Day is fast approaching, and it's time to honor the incredible women who shape our lives. Whether she's a fashion-forward trendsetter, a home-loving soul, or simply someone who appreciates life's finer things, finding the perfect gift can make her day truly extraordinary. In this guide, we'll unveil an array of fantastic gift ideas across various categories, all sourced from beloved brands that are sure to make Mom feel cherished and adored.
2024 Winter Market Buyers Guide November 28, 2023 - Unveiling the New Winter Market 2024: Your Ultimate Guide to Shopping this January. This is the busiest time of the entire year, so we’ll keep this post brief. We’re excited to bring you the most anticipated issue yet – the Winter Market 2024 Buyers Guide. Designed exclusively for you, this guide is packed with insights, Read more »
2023 Summer Market Buyers Guide April 18, 2023 - Get ready to make waves this summer with our sizzling hot 2023 Summer Market Buyer's Guide! Packed with the latest trends. This guide is your key to a season of style and adventure. From essentials to innovations, you don’t have to worry because- We Have It All! At Road Runners, you really can find it all under one showroom. Dive into the guide to streamline your shopping experience and make every moment at market count. Can’t make it to market, don’t worry! Best of all, our independent reps would love to visit you in your store.
2023 Winter Market Buyers Guide October 13, 2022 - It's time to gear up for the new year and the new 2023 Winter Market Buyer's Guide. This comprehensive guide is your passport to navigating the winter wonderland of products, ensuring you stay warm, stylish, and prepared for the spring and summer months ahead. We’ve handpicked a selection of must-haves! Dive into our curated recommendations and insightful reviews. With these insights, you’ll arrive at market armed with the knowledge that you’ll make not only practical but on-trend buying choices for your store. We are here to guide you through this winter market season.
2022 Summer Market Buyers Guide June 14, 2022 - As the temperatures rise and the summer season approaches, navigating market for the best products can be a daunting task. We’ve curated a Summer Market Buyer's Guide to make your shopping experience a breeze. From must-have gifts to the latest in fashion, personal care, home and holiday, this guide covers it all. Whether you're a seasoned shopper or someone looking for the hottest trends- We Have It All! Explore our recommendations and insightful reviews to ensure you make informed decisions and get the most out of your summer shopping experience. Say goodbye to endless scrolling and hello to a curated selection that promises quality and style. Dive into the Summer Market Buyer's Guide and make this season one to remember.
Favorite Finds from Summer Markets August 28, 2021 - As we write this post, our team is closing our Las Vegas Market showroom from the very last show of the wholesale summer show circuit.  What a ride this summer has been prepping three showrooms in Dallas Market Center, Americasmart, and International Market Center.  While nothing has been ordinary the last 18 months or so, there are Read more »
Shop This Dallas Gift Market Vendor for the Latest Apparel Trends! Everything to Know August 20, 2021 - Looking for the latest apparel trends to stock your store? Check out what this Dallas gift market vendor has to offer here!
What Makes Road Runners a Different Dallas Market Jewelry Vendor? How to Have a Store That Stands Out! August 20, 2021 - Curious how this Dallas market jewelry vendor can change up the type of jewelry you sell? Read on to learn how to make your store more unique!
A Dallas Market Vendors Guide for Having a Well Stocked Store August 20, 2021 - If you're a retailer or buyer ready to increase your store's success, check out this Dallas market vendors guide for tips and tricks of the trade!
This Unique Las Vegas Market Vendor Hits the Strip! The Best Buying Tips for Your Boutique August 17, 2021 - This Unique Las Vegas Market Vendor Is Ready to Rock Your Gift Shop Are you a retailer and buyer looking to up your supply? Learn how this Las Vegas market vendor can help you buy the perfect home décor and gifts for your store! In May of 2021, 2.9 million visitors came to Las Vegas, a Read more »
Plan Your Work, Work Your Plan! July 10, 2021 - PLAN YOUR WORK, WORK YOUR PLAN has never been more important. By now, you’ve heard about the global supply chain crisis. You may have even begun to feel the effects within your retail store. There is a shortage of raw basic goods like soy wax and glass.  The problem is compounded by a shortage of shipping containers and even Read more »
giving gifts Tips on Giving Gifts To Children May 25, 2021 - It's important to make you are staying mindful in your giving gifts to children. Making sure it's not a meaningless ritual, but that it's something with value.
home decor outlet Tips for Using a Home Decor Outlet May 25, 2021 - Looking for tips on what to look for at your home decor outlet? Check out our article for a comprehensive list of tips and advice.
jewelry tips Jewelry Tips: Staying Stylish Without Breaking the Bank May 25, 2021 - Looking for practical jewelry tips? Check out our article for a helpful list of tips to keep you in style without financial strain.
calming activities Calming Activities: Benefits of a Home Garden May 25, 2021 - Seeking to create a peaceful space at your home? Check out our article on gardening as a calming activity and the incredible benefits it offers.
ambiance Using Candles to Create the Perfect Ambiance May 22, 2021 - Candles are a powerful resource in crafting ambiance. Check out our article for a bevy of tips and advice on how to master them.
custom greetings cards Say More With Custom Greetings Cards May 19, 2021 - Want a simple gift that radiates authenticity? Check out our helpful article on the awesome uses of custom greetings cards.
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