FEBRUARY 15, 2020

Valentine’s Day spending to soar 32% to a record $27.4 billion this year!

CC / Vika Glitter

Retailers anticipate significant profits from cupid merchandise this year.
Valentine’s Day spending forecasted to rise by 32%, reaching a record $27.4 billion according to the National Retail Federation.
Strong employment and higher wages likely to contribute to increased spending.
27% of people plan to buy Valentine’s gifts for their pets, the highest ever, totaling $1.7 billion.
Top spending categories include jewelry, dinner outings, clothing, candy, flowers, gift cards, and greeting cards.

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QUICKCHARGE POS

Quickcharge POS provides all of the point of sale features
you need in an easy-to-use solution with automated
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800-348-5545
www.mmhayes.com/giftshopPOS

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10 Display Rules

1. Group related items together.

2. Use one tall item to anchor the display.

3. Place taller items at the back.

4. Display merchandise in groups of three or more.

5. Create a focal point and work around it.

6. Display in various heights and depths by using risers.

7. Add pizzazz. Be creative. Be bold.

8. Use good spotlighting.

9. Bigger items sell the smaller items.

10. Amuse, don’t confuse.

Does this display work?

How would you improve this display? Comment on what it gets right and where it goes wrong. 

(click the tag to comment)

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SPONSOR

CLIMBING BEAR ARRANGEMENTS
by Fantasia Greetings

Consists of a six-inch teddy bear,
attached to a seven-and-half inch bud vase with
a four-inch engraved mylar balloon and a
silk rosebud complete with a gift card.

fantasiagreet@aol.com

THIS MONTH’S POLL

What POS system do you use?

LAST MONTH’S POLL: RESULTS

Do you get an annual bonus or sales-based incentive?

The results were overwhelming – a majority of gift shop managers do not receive bonuses.  Don’t be discouraged! Find pride in what you do, knowing you strive to be the very best at it every day. Knowing you provide an invaluable service to your patrons, staff, and volunteers. 

Thank you to everyone who participated!

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SPONSOR

snoozies!^® 

See our ALL NEW Spring 2020 collection of foot coverings!
Simply Pairables in children’s, women’s and men’s sizes.
More new styles, more new designs to keep your customers coming back!
Did you get our new spring catalog? View Spring 2020 Catalog!

252-650-7000
www.snoozies.com

Do you know what’s selling and what’s not? Giftbeat’s nationwide network of 300+ gift shops rank their top-selling items in 50 product categories every month. That’s powerful! Subscribe today to see all Giftbeat categories including highest markup, steady sellers, fashion, apparel, plush, children’s gifts, and more.

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We are using NCR Counterpoint. We installed this system almost 6 years ago and have upgraded successfully (and easily) twice since that time. Once was a minor upgrade to install an Ingenico Card Machine and most recently was to allow us to be compatible with Windows 10 software as required by our hospital. We have been pleased with the software and especially with the ease of use for our volunteer population. – Angela Quinn. 1/16/20

DRESSING ROOM ALTERNATIVES?

Q. With no dressing room, how do others handle customers that want to try on clothing?  How can we sell apparel without?  – Singh. 1/3/2020

Regarding the question concerning no dressing room: we have a full length mirror on both sides of our back room area door. For sweaters, ponchos, etc. the one on the gift shop side works just fine. If someone needs to try on a top, we allow them to step into the back room to try it on and just wait outside. We have had no problems with this process. Occasionally someone will want to try on in a more private place (aka: bathroom). In these instances they will generally leave with us their car keys, or coat, etc. so we are comfortable with this. We can also see the bathroom entrance from our shop, so that helps us keep an eye out. For hospital staff, this is never a worry! – Nancy Johnsen. 1/16/20

We have a back room for receiving and office. We checked into a actual fitting room when we remodeled and it has to be ADA compliant. I did not feel it was a good trade off to give up the square footage in the shop for the fitting room, so had had a hospital curtain added to the back room. It works just fine when needed. There is a large mirror on one wall also. – Mary Robinson. 1/16/20

We offer my office to our customers ~ they close and lock the door, and are happy to make sure it fits first! We also offer our nearest rest room…..this of course takes a lot of trust in your customers~~but~~ we’ve never had an item walk out yet! And the customers are very happy that we do trust them enough to offer this to them. Sometimes this trust makes the sale!! – Anonymous. 1/20/20

We have our restrooms across the hall, I offer for them to go try it on..so far no issues. I get worries but as I said not issues with that yet. Those who don’t we have an exchange policy that I let them know and ask that they keep tags and receipt. – Leslie Hollingsworth. 1/20/20

NOVEMBER SALES DOWN?

Q. I would like to know if anyone was down in sales for November? Our sales were down about $6,000 year over year. In my area, a lot of the stores had their Christmas items on sale at 50% off the second week of November which I believe had a lot to do with it. That, the weather in my area, and a couple of internal changes were all culprits.  I was just curious if anyone else was down due to the shortened holiday season with Thanksgiving being a week later.  – Kim DeBord, Marketplace Manager, Riverside Medical Center, Kankakee, IL. 325 beds. 12/4/19

Our November sales were significantly down also, and I think Carol has a point about Thanksgiving being later affecting that. Luckily we had a better December which made up for it and helped our overall year’s total. – Vicki Holcombe 1/16/20.

My November sales are also down but we need to keep in mind that Thanksgiving was a week later this year and Thanksgiving really does kick off the Holiday Season. I am expecting to make up the difference in December and we are off to a stronger start than last year. I think it is too soon to tell how are this year’s Holiday Season will end up. Thanks for another great newsletter! I hope everyone has a very successful Holiday Season. – Carol A Colpitts, Gift Shop Manager/Buyer, Milford Regional Medical Center, Milford, MA. 116 beds. 12/8/19

PROMOTIONS

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i3 Verticals – NCR Point of Sale Solution

A “Volunteer Friendly” NCR Point of Sale solution
for hospital gift shops. Easy to learn! Easy to use!
Payroll Deduction and Inventory Management available.
Take your gift shop to the next level!
Ask for a FREE copy of our “Hospital Gift Shops:
Tips for Success” booklet.

887-809-9980
www.i3pos.com

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SPONSOR

MY GARDEN OF FLOWERS
Miracles in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

This award-winning beautifully illustrated book, My Garden of Flowers: Miracles in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, by Dr. Manjeet Kaur is perfect for the hospital gift shop!

This invaluable resource for worried families gives parents knowledge and reassurance
that their critically ill infants will typically grow to adulthood and lead normal, healthy lives.

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SPONSOR

HALLMARK GOLD CROWN

Hallmark’s brand promises to make a genuine difference
in every life, every day! Hallmark is a perfect partnership
for hospital retail. Create a relaxing respite for staff,
visitors and patients. Flexible floor plan options and attractive
opening terms make this a great opportunity for your hospital gift shop!

816-274-5185
GrowWithHallmark.com

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SPONSOR

ANDREW DISTRIBUTION
for Magazines and Paperback Books

For Hospital Gift Shops! Crossword Puzzles!
Cell Phone Accessories! Largest Percent Discounts
Customize and change orders anytime!
Receive credit on all unsold magazines.
Huge Magazine Selections!

708-410-2400

AndrewDistribution.com

CINDY’S NEWSLETTER

for

HOSPITAL GIFT SHOP MANAGERS

 NOVEMBER 20, 2019 

Cindy’s Newsletter provides managers an opportunity to exchange success stories and share thoughts on industry hot topics. We report on breaking news, product trends, survey studies, business tips and other articles that give valuable insight into the market dynamics that affect hospital gift shops. There are over 3,000 hospital gift shop managers presently benefiting from the information in Cindy’s Newsletter. 

JOIN THE DISCUSSION!

Click the comment bubbles or submit a tip, hot seller, question, or answer to cindy@cindyjonesassociates.com. Include the # of beds in your posts. While we try to keep the content at a reasonably advanced level, we occasionally post items for folks newer to hospital gift shops.

 CALENDAR

State Auxiliary Conferences

February 17-19, 2020

The 2020 California Hospital Volunteer Leadership Conference, “Engineering Change. Inspiring Leadership.,” will take place February 17-19 at the Hyatt Regency Newport Beach.  Registration

Wednesday, April 28 – May 1, 2020

Hospital Gift Shop Manager’s Association of the Carolinas, Double Tree Myrtle Beach Oceanfront. If interested in being a vendor or participant, please contact Amy Waldrop at  acfarris@lexhealth.org. 

Trade Shows & Gift Markets

Jan 8-14, 2020

Dallas Total Home & Gift Market (Winter). Dallas, TX

January 9-13, 2020

LA Mart 2020 Market (Winter) | Gift + Home. Los Angeles, CA

Jan 14-21, 2020

Atlanta International Gift & Home Furnishings Market (Winter). Atlanta, GA

Jan 15-18, 2020

Dallas Apparel & Accessories Market. Dallas, TX

Jan 26-30, 2020

Las Vegas Market (Winter). Las Vegas, NV

Send us your upcoming state conference and market dates!  

  Hello!

We gently remind you that the richness of this newsletter depends on your contributions. All we ask is that you submit two tips per quarter — which should be easy to do as you learn and make refinements to your practices in all areas of hospital gift shop management. 

So, share what have you learned or implemented in the last couple of months that has benefited you and your shop? Have you “paid” your dues this quarter? **Include your name, hospital name, location, # of beds.

What have you done lately that seems to be working?

What have you tried that you think might work for your colleagues?

New ways to increase sales?

What is the Value of a Hospital Gift Shop?

Our gift shops here at Reading Hospital are owned and operated by The Friends of Reading Hospital.  All of the proceeds raised throughout the year are used to fund the latest projects of The Friends.  One of our biggest projects in recent years has been HeartSAFE Berk County, which donates AED units (automated external defoliators) to businesses and schools, as well as to local fire and police units throughout Berks County, Pennsylvania. This year alone, 3 lives have been saved by AED units donated by The Friends. And where did those funds come from? They came from Gift Shop proceeds! Our efforts make a huge difference to healthcare and the local community.  We help save lives! For more information about  HeartSAFE Berks County.

— Eric Wininger, Gift Shops Manager, , Gift Shops Manager, Reading, PA. 759 Beds.11/11/19

Two Policies: Donated Merchandise

Here are two policies to consider if your shop is or will be purchasing items from local craftspeople, volunteer auxiliaries, hospital employees or accepting items on consignment.

Policy 1

This policy allows the buying of craft items, etc. with certain standards

The gift shop is a business. All handmade craft items are to be purchased outright by the shop at cost and to sell at a 50% markup.

Merchandise purchased for resale in the Gift Shop must be from vendors who have business licenses, show at industry trade shows and comply with the Gift Shop Purchase Order Terms. If a vendor, person or auxiliary can pass the “risk management” test, then we can proceed to do business with them. An invoice must be prepared by the creator, artist, designer or craftsperson.

If item/s do not sell in an appropriate amount of time (4-6 weeks), they should be marked down for quick sale and NOT accepted again.

No consignment buying.

It requires that handmade items or donations must comply with the shop’s established vendor standards.

Policy 2

This policy restricts buying of craft items, etc.

Merchandise can only be purchased from licensed vendors or wholesalers. 

Being able to reference this policy allows your shop to graciously decline without hurting anyone’s feelings and the shop is not in the uncomfortable position of judging and turning away fellow volunteers or hospital employees.

Limited shop hours means limited sales and service!

A Number of Managers Have Recently Asked…

What category or department accounts for the highest sales in your shop?

What category or department occupies the most space in your shop?

For me, the answer to both questions is “Home Décor”, also known as tchotchkes, brick-a-brack, or dust collectors. This category of merchandise changes monthly or seasonally to reflect seasons, holidays and celebrations. Last year my sales for this merchandise were $180,039, or 28% of my total sales. 

 —Eric Wininger. 759 beds 11/7/19

The category that represents the highest sales in our shop – it’s a toss-up between jewelry and apparel. The category that occupies the most space in our shop is plush.

—Toni Gildone, Volunteer Coordinator, Manager of The Window Shop, Monadnock Community Hospital, NH.  11/10/19

Our number-one category in both sales and allocated space is women’s apparel. It represents about 30% of all sales. Our top selling lines in this category are: Ruby Road, Habitat, LuLu B by Zulily, Howards and DM. I am amazed at how well this category/department has done. There are days that we sell 15 tops. Hospital staff love the convenience.  We also have a number of people that come in from the community to shop. Ruby Road is much more fashion driven and is pre priced. The margins are fantastic and even when I have a one-day sale I am still making good margins.  DM is much more basic and has a great selection of pajamas, socks, scarves, hats, and gloves. They also have wonderful prices and good margins as well.  Habitat is much higher priced and it is my highest price line that I carry. This brand is very recognized in my area and is very good quality. The line is known for the quality and people will pay the higher prices for it. I do tend to work a lighter tighter with the margins for this vendor but I do sell it well. Howard’s Jewelry has a tunic every season in a variety of prints that has been very strong as well. If any other manager has great moderate priced lines that they are carrying I would love to hear about them as I am always expanding the category.  Thank you, Cindy, for another great newsletter!

—Carol A Colpitts, Gift Shop Manager/Buyer, Milford Regional Medical Center, Milford, MA. 125 beds. 11/6/19

Help out by sharing your response. Email cindy@cindyjonesassociates.com.

Space Allocation Tip

from Cindy

Evaluate all departments with regard to the revenue they create. The higher the sales, the more floor and shelf-space can and should be provided to them.

UPCOMING HOLIDAYS

Nov 28        Thanksgiving

Nov 29        Black Friday

Nov 30        Small Business Saturday

Dec 22-30 Hannukah

Dec 25        Christmas

A “Volunteer Friendly” NCR POINT OF SALE SOLUTION for hospital gift shops
Easy to learn! Easy to use! Payroll Deduction and Inventory Management available.
Take your gift shop to the next level! Ask for a FREE copy of
our “Hospital Gift Shops: Tips for Success” booklet.
734-453-9200  •   aleco@randalldata.com  •   www.MeetMildred.com

National Toy Hall of Fame Announces 2019 Inductees

Matchbox Cars, Magic: The Gathering and the classic coloring book will be joining the ranks.

Small-but-mighty Matchbox Cars have raced across the finish line and been inducted into the National Toy Hall of Fame, joining the popular collectible card game Magic: The Gathering and time-honored coloring book in the class of 2019. The honorees were chosen from a field of 12 finalists that also included Care Bears, Fisher-Price Corn Popper, Jenga, Masters of the Universe, My Little Pony, Nerf Blaster, Risk, smartphone and top.

A dead item on your shelf has a turn rate of 0!

Do You Calculate Tariffs Separately?

Invoices that I have received do not have a separate “tariff” line item. They are just including the cost of the tariff into their wholesale prices. I, of course, reflect this into my retail pricing. Costs should be multiplied by 2.3 – 2.5 to obtain the retail price.

  — Eric Wininger. 759 beds. 11/7/19

I have noticed tariffs on Canadian companies that I do business with:  Giftcraft, Prairie Wear Compression bras, Bali Clothing Co. It tends to be 5% of my total order. I have been adding that into my shipping column as I do not have a separate subaccount for tariffs. Like all shipping, that is factored into my retail!   

—LeAnn Porter, CFm, CMF Supervisor, Tina’s Treasures, Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center, Scottsdale, AZ. 11/7/19

Volunteer Appreciation: Best Reward is to Simply Say Thanks

How do you show appreciation to your volunteers? Although it’s nice to give discounts and host luncheons, keep in mind that these generally are not the rewards that motivate volunteers. They are not personal. The best reward is to simply say, ‘thank you’ at the end of each shift. Tell them that they make a difference! I knew a volunteer once who just gave and gave of herself to the shop. She was like the Energizer Bunny, she just kept giving. I asked her why she keeps coming back week after week—to work for no pay. In one sentence, she summed up all my questions about volunteers and why they do what they do. “I’m doing a service for the community and it’s a way to meet people at the same time,” she said. “It’s knowing that I’m helping the hospital. I feel appreciated!”

79 Perfect Presents: Oprah’s Favorite Things for 2019

Here are  Oprah’s Favorite Things for 2019. It includes 79 perfect presents—and one bonus pick—just in time for the holidays from a makeup kit by Lady Gaga to the perfect pancake maker to the softest hoodie.

What’s Selling? The Top Shelf-Movers 

from Giftbeat 

By Erica Kirkland

As busy hospital gift shop managers, it’s not easy to determine what products will sell well. Add in the pressure of having a board oversee your product purchases – successes and failures – alongside limited floor space and it’s no wonder many managers are hesitant to step outside their comfort zones and purchase non-traditional categories of goods. However, consumers are consumers, whether they’re shopping at a gift shop inside a hospital or outside a hospital. Market data shows that the categories currently trending up among gift shop consumers are fashion accessories, jewelry and apparel.

In September, 46 percent of independent gift stores reported month-over-month sales gains in apparel while 43 percent noted gains in the sale of purses and bags. In August, 49 percent of stores recorded month-over-month gains in jewelry.

When dipping your toes into the water with a new product grouping, it’s important to build inventory with sure-fire winners before testing smaller, lesser-known brands. For many years, the top-selling apparel line for gift stores has been Simply Noelle. In the colder months, the brand’s wraps and capes sell well while in the warmer months capes and various tops are bestsellers. Another popular line are the t-shirts from Simply Southern  for stores in southern states and throughout the country. Of course, DM’s Hello Mello loungewear is a must-stock for hospital gift shops along with their Two Left Feet selection of slippers and socks.

When it comes to jewelry, the trend in the past few years has been toward jewelry with a message. Top lines include Embracelets, Layers and Forever in My Heart from Center Court while new and hot-selling collections include Lumiela necklaces from Mulberry Studios. Both lines are extremely affordable and easy to merchandise with branded countertop displayers.

While they take up more floor space, purses and bags are a category that female consumers purchase over and over again. Brands with long-standing saleability in the gift industry include animal-themed wallets and crossbodies from Chala and canvas totes and crossbodies from Myra Bag which are made from upcycled materials. If starting out in this category, try some equally popular but less costly lines like the multi-purpose mini clutches from Joy Susan, wristlets in a rainbow of colors from Jen & Co. and cellphone purses from Save the Girls. 

Many gift stores have found success in the category of wearables by offering employees a 50 percent discount on jewelry and apparel with the expectation that employees wear the items while working. Customers love seeing merchandise on employees and employees who really like a line are more likely to suggest it to shoppers. 

Erica Kirkland, Publisher & Editor of Giftbeat, www.giftbeat.com.

FROM SUBSCRIBERS

HOW TO CALCULATE…

Q. Does anyone know how to calculate the retail value of sales if everything was sold at full retail price? For example, if a category of merchandise’s sales to date are $4,000 and the Gross Profit Margin is 42%, what was the retail value of these sales? Thank you!  — Eric Wininger, Gift Shops Manager, Reading, PA. 759 beds. 10/24/19

FRAGRANCES

Our shop does very well with designer fragrances, especially at this time of the year. Hospital employees appreciate using payroll deduction for these higher-priced items. We work with Arianne Pennington at  Direct Fragrances, 1-800-800-4208. — Phyllis Hill, Gift Shop Manager, McLaren Hospital, Flint, MI. 388 beds. 11/3/19

TWELVE DAYS OF CHRISTMAS SALE

Last year we tried for the first time a “Twelve Days of Christmas” sale.  From Dec 1 through Dec 12th, we had a different item or category on sale each day at 20% off. I posted the days ahead of time at each of our shops. It was a great success!  It gave the employees an excuse to come in every day. We had candles one day, jewelry another day, all Christmas items a couple of different days, etc. Many times, customers would come in for the “Sale of the Day” and buy other things at full price as well. – Gift Shop Manager, Quad Hospital. 328 beds. 11/4/19

We are planning and preparing to launch a Twelve Days of Christmas Sale the first of December 1. I can’t believe the excitement we have built in our shop.  I don’t remember who offered the suggestion or what newsletter it came from so I will simply say a thank you to Cindy and all who contribute to the newsletter. Collaboration and sharing of best practices is the only way to operate successfully.  Happy Holidays. — Annette, Saline Hospital. 11/1/19

AMERICA’S MART VS. NY NOW 

I work and live one hour away from the NY Now show and rarely attend. For what it cost me to attend NY Now for two days I can attend America’s mart for six days!!! America’s Mart has a lot more to offer in terms of product and design ideas too! Almost all of my sale’s representatives have stopped attending the NY Now show due to the high cost of the city as well.  — Colleen DeSimone ~ Gift Shop Coordinator, Orange Regional Medical Center Gift Shop, Middletown, NY  276 Beds    11/7/19

Having attended both America’s Mart and NY NOW multiple times, I would recommend America’s Mart in Atlanta. It’s much larger, with a vastly superior variety of products, and hotel rooms in downtown Atlanta are much more affordable than NYC. Also, if you’re a Purchasing Power Plus member, many more PPP vendors are represented in Atlanta.  — Eric Wininger, Gift Shops Manager, Reading, PA  759 Beds  10/24/19

GIFTCRAFT SNOWGLOBE

Q. I am looking for anyone who has purchased the battery operated Giftcraft Snowglobe Christmas Décor. It has a light and a fan which blows the glitter around so it doesn’t need shaking. We purchased several different styles and we have had a problem with each one. They seem to be sucking the battery life out at a very fast rate. I believe it is a problem with the technology because it happens to all of that same technology of the snow-globe effect. Giftcraft states that they have had no other complaints about them. Thanks in advance for any feedback you can give me.— Brenda Welcher, AdventHealth, Volunteer Services Manager, AdventHealth – Zephyr Hills  138 beds  10/25/19

BEST SELLERS

Warmies, a heatable plush and home therapy product. They are always adding new items to their line. 844-927-6437

Simply Pairables from Snoozie Slippers. They have added a lot of new items. Simply Pairables are now available in women’s and men’s sizes. 252-650-7000

SwirlyDo Hair Ties by Lindo. I carry them in the large and small and I have reordered several times. This is a great product to keep at the checkout counter. 206-973-2363 

— Sally Begue, Gift Shop Manager, Akron Children’s Hospital, Akron, OH. 263 beds.10/16/19

The Gathering of Friends series is a good cookbook. The photos in this book are fantastic, the recipes just wonderful, and they include a shopping list and place for guests to sign at each gathering. With the holidays coming up I highly recommend it! Cost is $12.50; I sell them for $29.95. 

— Anonymous, please. 10/19/19

EMPLOYEE DISCOUNTS ON GIFT CARDS

Q. For those of you that are selling store gift cards (Amazon, Dunkin Donuts, etc.) are you excluding these from the employee discount? — Shawn L. Richardson Alice Peck Day Hospital Gift Tree Shop, Lebanon, NH. 10/12/19

Our employee discount is 25% so gift cards have to be excluded or the they would be purchasing below cost. 

— Debbie Hood, Union Hospital Gift Shops, Terre Haute, IN. 345 beds. 10//24/19

As I assume your profit margin on this gifts cards is very small, do not offer any discounts on them. In general, I do not discount anything with less than a 50% profit margin built in. 

— Eric Wininger, Gift Shops Manager, Reading, PA. 759 beds. 10/24/19

GIFT BAG VENDOR

Q. I am looking for a new vendor for gift bags, besides Gift Wrap Company and Kelli’s. Any suggestions? Thank you.— Donna Sant, Carle Auxiliary Retail Mgr, Carle Hospital, Urbana IL.10/15/19

We use  Nashville Wraps and sometimes  Burton & Burton has bags. We have a volunteer who decorates the  basic brown bags with buttons, ribbons and other miscellaneous crafty items. They are absolutely adorable and the customers love them.  

— Catherine Taschler. Ascension St. Clare’s, Weston WI. 10/24/19

Pictura Cards have some very nice gift bags.

—  Eric Wininger, Gift Shops Manager, Reading, PA. 759 beds. 10/24/19

PROMOTIONS

HALLMARK GOLD CROWN
Hallmark’s brand promises to make a genuine difference in every life, every day!
Hallmark is a perfect partnership for hospital retail.
Create a relaxing respite for staff, visitors and patients.
Flexible floor plan options and attractive opening terms make this
a great opportunity for your hospital gift shop!
816-274-5185 •  grow_with_hallmark@hallmark.com •  www.GrowWithHallmark.com

Our new, improved, and unique
Petite Purse Strap Holder Brooch!
Keeps your purse and other straps securely on your shoulder.
Hands free for your active lifestyle. Ends slippage!
Patented u-shaped pin-back lasts a life-time. Never snags your garment.
Whimsey, Pets, Flowers, and adorable nurse & medical designs.
www.pursestrapholder.com

SNOOZIES
See our exciting 2020 Winter collection of foot coverings!
Simply Pairables in children’s, women’s and men’s sizes.
What’s the most important reason to stock and sell Snoozies® In your hospital gift shop?
Because they simply sell like crazy! Soft, comfy, warm, and simply adorable!
More colors and more new styles!
Check out our Opportunity Buys for discounted deals.
252-650-7000 ext 206 or 210 •  www.snoozies.com

High-quality, inexpensive CELL PHONE ACCESSORIES!
Fast moving point of sale items with over 125% ROI!
Risk-free 90-day money back guarantee on all products.
No minimums and FREE shipping on orders over $100.
FREE acrylic display with kit purchase. PPP Member
888-317-0154 • chris@SmashDiscount.com

ANDREW DISTRIBUTION for MAGAZINES & PAPERBACK BOOKS
For Hospital Gift Shops! Crossword Puzzles! Cell Phone Accessories!
Largest Percent Discounts!
Customize and change orders anytime!
Receive credit on all unsold magazines. Huge Magazine Selections!
708-410-2400 •  www.AndrewDistribution.com

QUICKCHARGE POS
QUICKCHARGE POS provides all of the point of sale features you need
in an easy-to-use solution with automated payroll deduction capabilities and reliable customer support!
Transitioning from your current POS system is fast, easy, and affordable.
800-348-5545 •  www.mmhayes.com/giftshopPOS

CINDY’S NEWSLETTER

for

HOSPITAL GIFT SHOP MANAGERS

 OCTOBER 23, 2019 

Cindy’s Newsletter provides managers an opportunity to exchange success stories and share thoughts on industry hot topics. We report on breaking news, product trends, survey studies, business tips and other articles that give valuable insight into the market dynamics that affect hospital gift shops. There are over 3,000 hospital gift shop managers presently benefiting from the information in Cindy’s Newsletter. 

JOIN THE DISCUSSION!

Submit a tip, hot seller, question, or answer to cindy@cindyjonesassociates.com. Include the # of beds in your posts. While we try to keep the content at a reasonably advanced level, we occasionally post items for folks newer to hospital gift shops.

 CALENDAR

State Auxiliary Conferences

February 17-19, 2020

The 2020 California Hospital Volunteer Leadership Conference, “Engineering Change. Inspiring Leadership.,” will take place February 17-19 at the Hyatt Regency Newport Beach.

Trade Shows & Gift Markets

Jan 8-14, 2020

Dallas Total Home & Gift Market (Winter). Dallas, TX

Jan 9-13, 2020

LA Mart 2020 Market (Winter) | Gift + Home. Los Angeles, CA

Jan 14-21, 2020

Atlanta International Gift & Home Furnishings Market (Winter). Atlanta, GA

Jan 15-18, 2020

Dallas Apparel & Accessories Market. Dallas, TX

Jan 26-30, 2020

Las Vegas Market (Winter). Las Vegas, NV

Send us your upcoming state conference and market dates!  

Top Gift Markets: What to Know Before You Go

Gifts & Dec

Many gift shop retailers agree that visiting gift and housewares markets and industry trade shows is one of the only ways to stay ahead of the market. The challenge for busy retailers is deciding which shows and gift markets to attend to make the best use of limited time and funds. There are several huge markets throughout the year, plus a growing number of niche events, tailored to specific retail categories and interests from surfing to wellness, to jewelry or collectibles. 

We chatted with a handful of gift industry professionals to find out which shows are a must, to help you make travel plans that will pay off for your shop. Read more Top Gift Markets: What to Know Before You Go…

The National Retail Federation said it expects holiday retail sales during November and December to increase between 3.8 percent and 4.2 percent over 2018 to a total of between $727.9 billion and $730.7 billion. The numbers, which exclude automobile dealers, gasoline stations and restaurants, compare with an average holiday sales increase of 3.7 percent over the previous five years.

“The U.S. economy is continuing to grow and consumer spending is still the primary engine behind that growth,” NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay said. “Nonetheless, there has clearly been a slowdown brought on by considerable uncertainty around issues including trade, interest rates, global risk factors and political rhetoric. Consumers are in good financial shape and retailers expect a strong holiday season. However, confidence could be eroded by continued deterioration of these and other variables.”

… 

The effect of tariffs on holiday spending — either directly or through consumer confidence — remains to be seen. Some holiday merchandise — including apparel, footwear and televisions — is subject to new tariffs that took effect September 1, and other products will have the tariffs applied on December 15. Retailers are using a myriad of mitigation tactics to limit the impact on consumers, and the impact will ultimately vary by company and product. Small businesses, in particular, have already been forced to raise prices. Nonetheless, 79 percent of consumers surveyed for NRF in September were concerned that tariffs will cause prices to rise, potentially affecting their approach to shopping. Read more 2019 NRF forecasts holiday sales will grow between 3.8 and 4.2 percent…

Epitaph on a pessimist’s tombstone, “I expected this.”

UPCOMING HOLIDAYS

Oct 31        Halloween
Nov 11       Veteran’s Dat
Nov 28       Thanksgiving 

Nov 29       Black Friday

Nov 30       Small Business Saturday

Dec 22-30  Hannukah

Dec 25       Christmas

Greeting Cards

In a society that has become increasingly dependent on electronic communication, stationery products are now unique in the way that electronic communication was years ago. A handwritten note or gifted journal conveys a more thoughtful and personal connection than any e-mail or text, providing an often-welcomed respite from the constant tweets and beeps most people face daily.

So many card purchases are made when customers never intended on buying a card. “They see cards and it reminds them they need one. The majority of greeting card consumers are female. Appealing to her, and to a broader audience, is all about communicating how the overall offering in the card aisle will meet her needs. It is important to select cards that appeal to the majority of your customers. Merchandise directed at a large group of consumers provides the greatest potential sales.

Most hospital gift shops carry at least three card lines: an everyday card line and two additional ones. Your every-day, basic card line should be strong in Thinking of You, Friendship, Get Well, Wedding, Baby, Good Bye/Good Luck and Sympathy. Employees want cards for co-workers, such as: farewell, Bosses’ Day, congratulations (for new job or promotion), thank you, inspirational, and humorous cards. Also, African-American and Hispanic-American cards. Stick with the basics! You are not a full-line Hallmark card shop.

Card spinners are not terribly exciting. Wall displays that are well marked so customers are able to find the category of card they’re seeking perform better.

Carefully select additional card lines. They will spice up your over-all greeting card selection. Experiment with what works best with your customer. Continually monitor how the new lines perform. If a line is not turning fast, move it out and try another.

Hallmark to Close ‘Home and Gifts’ Division

October 15, 2019
Gifts & Dec

Kansas City, Mo.-based Hallmark Cards announced Monday afternoon that it would be closing one of its six businesses, Hallmark Home & Gifts, which offers home décor and gift products, including the brands Floor 9, Easy, Tiger and J.C. and Rollie.

The business will shut down by the end of the year, according to Andy DiOrio, Hallmark public relations and social media director. Hallmark administration said the change is due to its need to adapt and evolve in “an ever-changing retail industry.” Read more Hallmark to Close ‘Home and Gifts’ Division…

JOB OPENINGS 

Gift Shop Manager
Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX  
Read more…

Gift Shop Manager II
Maricopa Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ  
Read more…

Gift Shop Supervisor 
Providence Medical Center, Kansas City, KS
Read more…

Gift Shop Coordinator
Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, Cincinnati, OH
Read more…

Assistant Gift Shop Mgr
LifePoint Hospitals, Gallatin, TN
Read more…

You Need Heart!

To manage and successfully run a hospital gift shop takes an awful lot of heart. You have to have patience, be able to accept criticism and be willing to change certain things you thought you knew. But if you’ve got a passion for what you’re doing, a vision for how you want it to look and the means to persevere through trials and tribulations, well then, you’re on the right track.

The key to managing, surviving and thriving in a hospital gift shop environment is perseverance and the willingness to change to meet your customers ever-changing needs. Besides taking some risks, you must be diligent and open to alterations!

What’s Hot

A great selling category is local items with your city or state imprinted.

Bamboo ponchos from Top It Off Accessories, Paint by Number Kits by Pink Picasso, hair accessories, head bands, socks, and horoscope-themed items.

Cindy’s Corner

by Cindy Jones, Editor

Years ago, I hit on the idea that there probably was something I could do for everyone I met, and it was my responsibility to find out what that ‘something’ was and to do it. To that end I found a simple rule to follow: “Do everything you can, for everyone you can, and do it before you need them.” Over the years I have tried hard to help my friends and clients in any way possible. It has been humbling to receive back their generosity and kindness.

Sometimes I have to pinch myself in gratitude for the opportunity to know and work with so many wonderful people in this wonderful hospital gift shop industry!

DISCUSSION

BEST SELLERS

Warmies, a heatable plush and home therapy product. They are always adding new items to their line. 844-927-6437

Simply Pairables from Snoozie Slippers. They have added a lot of new items. Simply Pairables are now available in women’s and men’s sizes. 252-650-7000

SwirlyDo Hair Ties by Lindo. I carry them in the large and small and I have reordered several times. This is a great product to keep at the checkout counter. 206-973-2363

— Sally Begue, Gift Shop Manager, Akron Children’s Hospital, Akron, OH. 263 beds. 10/16/19

The Gathering of Friends series is a good cookbook. The photos in this book are fantastic, the recipes just wonderful, and they include a shopping list and place for guests to sign at each gathering. With the holidays coming up I highly recommend it! Cost is $12.50; I sell them for $29.95.

— Anonymous, please. 10/19/19

EMPLOYEE DISCOUNTS ON GIFT CARDS

Q. For those of you that are selling store gift cards (Amazon, Dunkin Donuts, etc.) are you excluding these from the employee discount? — Shawn L. Richardson Alice Peck Day Hospital Gift Tree Shop, Lebanon, NH. 10/12/19

GIFT BAG VENDOR

Q. I am looking for a new vendor for gift bags, besides Gift Wrap Company and Kelli’s. Any suggestions? Thank you.— _{Donna Sant, Carle Auxiliary Retail Mgr, Carle Hospital, Urbana IL.10/15/19}

CBD OIL

Q. I would like to know if any hospital gift shops here in Arizona or other states are currently selling CBD products? If so, what was your process to obtain approval from administration? Were there any barriers that you faced or guidelines that needed to be followed? If you were able to carry CBD products what company do you buy from and what products are you successful with? I appreciate any feedback or advice you may have. — Jenny Inglett, Retail Coordinator, Gift Shop, Corner Stork Café & Daily Grind, Yuma Regional Medical Center, Yuma, AZ. 8/8/19. +:It seems that CBD Oil is all the rage right now. I am wondering if anybody has stocked it in their Gift Shop? If so, how are the sales? — Jodi Babineau, Lakeview Medical Center, Sunshine Gift Shoppe Rice Lake, WI. 40 beds. 8/17/19

Our Senior Leaders would not allow us to sell CBD oil in our gift shop. Our Employee Health Nurse Practitioner agreed with their decision. We sent out a request on the SHVL list serve website and there was an overwhelming response from other hospitals that they were not allowed to sell it in their gift shops also for many of the reasons that Connie Slingluff listed in her response. 

— Cindy Fox, CAVS, Director of Volunteer Services, Maury Regional Medical Center, Columbia, TN. 10/17/19

It is imperative that if a shop is selling this product that there is a pharmacist on staff that can discuss benefits, detriments, drug interactions, dosage, uses, etc. The purity of the product is of utmost importance-where is it grown, harvested and manufactured? Are pesticides used? What are the additives? Is the product grown, harvested and manufactures on the same site? Or is the product transported-and under what conditions? I believe at this time we should leave the CBD products to our pharmacists and medical personnel to sell.

 We have a natural medicine pharmacist on staff that I have had the pleasure of working with as she introduced CBD into one of our pharmacies. She has done an extraordinary job researching the best quality product. Our pharmacists are trained to ask the right questions regarding using these products and contraindications. I find it worrisome that there is so much product flooding the market. Love reading your newsletter!

— Noel Donohue, Manager, Retail Operations, VIVO Health, Northwell Health. 10/19

Interestingly enough I am able to sell a full line of herbal tinctures, tea’s, and salves in our mini apothecary section and our hospital is pretty progressive in thought when it comes to a holistic approach to healing. We offer Aromatherapy, Reiki, meditation, yoga and even guided visualization to our patients. However, when I approached admin about the potential for selling CBD’s in our shop it was denied. There are whole lot of folks that still need to be educated about how CBD’s work and those same folks still group this in with illegal substance. I find that sometimes what’s “on trend” at the trade show’s may not be “on trend” in my area and I need to keep this in mind when I purchase. For example; unicorns, sloths, llamas, and narwhals just do not work for me! 

— Colleen DeSimone, Gift Shop Coordinator, Orange Regional Medical Center Gift Shop, Middletown, NY 381 beds. 9/13/19

With approval from administration beforehand, I purchased Twine CBD oil in Atlanta at the Link2Sales Showroom. In fact, Link developed the product. However, I put it out and it got downed by the medical doctors doing the drug testing and the pharmacy so I am discontinuing it. It is selling all over our community. I am not a medical expert and our gift shop does not need to be seen as controversial so it is not for us right now. The problem is that in companies where they do drug testing, there is an issue with CBD oil causing them to fail drug test. I sold out of the cream first and am on the last of the oil. 

— Connie Slingluff, CDVS, Director of Volunteer Services, Blount Memorial Hospital, Maryville, TN. 8/17/19

BREAST CANCER PINS

We had a few members of the hospital staff wanting cancer related items. Most companies sell just breast cancer things and that is it so that is what our gift shop had to offer. It was a great point these customers made, all cancers matter! I found 
ChooseHope.com who donates 10% of its net profits back to cancer research and customers are extremely happy about this. We have a sign stating that the company donates to cancer research next to all the products, along with a chart showing which colors stand for which cancers. Lots of different items & prices. Just wanted to share with everyone. 

 – Tessa Soulsby, Retail Coordinator Culpeper Medical Center in Virginia. 10/19

Annaleece offers a nice breast cancer pin with Swarovski elements that are very elegant and classy, which retails at $42.50. If that is too expensive, Kelli’s Gift Shop Supplier has a nice option that retails under $5.00. 

— Bev Craig, Providence AK Gift Shop, Anchorage, AK. 9/16/19

Working with TSR Wholesale (Password: fall2019) is a real delight. I have been buying for the ARHS gift shops from this company for years. TSR carries an excellent line of clothing with some of the same name brands you can find at the larger high-end department stores. If I can get my order in to TSR before 3pm, I have my merchandise the next day. That service cannot be matched. TSR has great prices on their lines and very competitive.

— Sallie Woodring, buyer, Appalachian Regional Health Care. 2 gift shops (Boone NC and Linville NC) 10/13/19

CANDLE LINE

Q. I am looking for a new candle line. Right now, I sell A Cheerful Giver, which has been good but I would like to try something different. I would love ideas. Thank you — Jodi Babineau, Sunshine Gift Shoppe Rice Lake, WI. 40 beds. 8/12/19

We use Swan Creek Candle Company. 800-626-4590 or email dduke395w@gmail.com. 

— Winifred Major, Gift Shop Manager, AR. 10/1/19

We carry Village Candle. If your order is over $1200, you get free freight. If less, you get half freight. It is certainly worth it to take advantage of the free freight. Maple Butter is our best seller. We no longer carry votive’s as they do not sell for us, but the melts are great!

— Sherry Miller, Gift Shop Coordinator, Southeastern Med, Cambridge, OH. 9/2/19

I have a candle recommendation for Jodi who is looking for a new candle vendor: Swan Creek Candle Company or email  info@swancreekwholesale.com. I have carried several lines of candles in the past and this one outsells them all consistently. Also, Stony Creek at Home, Inc. has some wonderful Christmas light up décor and snowmen. 

Some other Christmas items that I would recommend are items from DM Merchandising, candles, clothing, jewelry, Snoozies socks, anything with snowmen on it, scarves and gloves. Our Christmas décor is selling less than it used to; I am noticing that the younger generation prefer minimal items in their homes for décor. Love your newsletter!

— Diane Honsberger, Manager, Volunteers/Gift Shop, Mercy Health, St. Anne Hospital Gift Shop, Toledo OH. 8/23/19

We were also looking for a new candle line and decided to start carrying the Swan Creek Candle line. The sales representative helped us determine the best-selling scents and sizes. We chose to start with 12 scents in the 12 oz vintage glass containers and purchased the basket displayer to show 16 of the sample-size glass containers (tiny jar with lid). We put them out and customers were amazed by how strong the fragrances were when you opened the lids. We sold so many the first 4 days we placed a reorder of both the sample size jars ($6.99 retail) and the 12 oz jars ($16.99). I think the combination of the great fragrance, cute container and the great retail prices make this line a winner. We have been looking to make a change for quite some time from Woodwick and the price increase and move to in-house sales sealed the deal for us.

— Anne Sutton, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Gift Shop, Cincinnati, OH. 8/19

PROMOTIONS

Our new, improved, and unique
Petite Purse Strap Holder Brooch!
Keeps your purse and other straps securely on your shoulder.
Hands free for your active lifestyle. Ends slippage!
Patented u-shaped pin-back lasts a life-time. Never snags your garment.
Whimsey, Pets, Flowers, and adorable nurse & medical designs.
www.pursestrapholder.com

SNOOZIES
See our exciting 2020 Winter collection of foot coverings!
Simply Pairables in children’s, women’s and men’s sizes.
What’s the most important reason to stock and sell Snoozies® In your hospital gift shop?
Because they simply sell like crazy! Soft, comfy, warm, and simply adorable!
More colors and more new styles!
Check out our Opportunity Buys for discounted deals.
252-650-7000 ext 206 or 210 •  www.snoozies.com

A “Volunteer Friendly” NCR POINT OF SALE SOLUTION for hospital gift shops
Easy to learn! Easy to use! Payroll Deduction and Inventory Management available.
Take your gift shop to the next level! Ask for a FREE copy of our
“Hospital Gift Shops: Tips for Success” booklet.
734-453-9200  •  aleco@randalldata.com  •  www.MeetMildred.com

High-quality, inexpensive CELL PHONE ACCESSORIES!
Fast moving point of sale items with over 125% ROI!
Risk-free 90-day money back guarantee on all products.
No minimums and FREE shipping on orders over $100.
FREE acrylic display with kit purchase. PPP Member
888-317-0154 • chris@SmashDiscount.com

ANDREW DISTRIBUTION for MAGAZINES & PAPERBACK BOOKS
For Hospital Gift Shops! Crossword Puzzles! Cell Phone Accessories!
Largest Percent Discounts!
Customize and change orders anytime!
Receive credit on all unsold magazines. Huge Magazine Selections!
708-410-2400 •  www.AndrewDistribution.com

QUICKCHARGE POS
QUICKCHARGE POS provides all of the point of sale features you need
in an easy-to-use solution with automated payroll deduction capabilities and reliable customer support!
Transitioning from your current POS system is fast, easy, and affordable.
800-348-5545 •  www.mmhayes.com/giftshopPOS

CINDY’S NEWSLETTER

for

HOSPITAL GIFT SHOP MANAGERS

 SEPTEMBER 25, 2019 

Cindy’s Newsletter provides managers an opportunity to exchange success stories and share thoughts on industry hot topics. We report on breaking news, product trends, survey studies, business tips and other articles that give valuable insight into the market dynamics that affect hospital gift shops. There are over 3,000 hospital gift shop managers presently benefiting from the information in Cindy’s Newsletter. 

JOIN THE DISCUSSION! 

Submit a tip, hot seller, question, or answer to cindy@cindyjonesassociates.com. Include the # of beds in your posts. While we try to keep the content at a reasonably advanced level, we occasionally post items for folks newer to hospital gift shops.

Miles Gift Shop Closes as Hospital League Shifts Focus

September 20, 2019
Lincoln County News

The Miles Memorial Hospital League closed its gift shop at LincolnHealth’s Miles Campus in Damariscotta, ME, on Friday, Sept. 13, as the charity examines its current operations and future goals.

Marva Nesbit, president of the Miles Memorial Hospital League Board of Directors, said that after lengthy and difficult discussions, the board voted unanimously to close the gift shop a few weeks ago.

Nesbit met with James Donovan, president and CEO of LincolnHealth, and Cindy Wade, regional chief Donovan said by email that the hospital has “just started the planning process to determine what might be possible for the future of the gift shop.” He said he does not have any details yet.

A statement from Nesbit and the hospital league’s board says “the unexpected resignation of a valued and talented assistant manager” and the sale of the league’s large storage barn at the corner of Pond Road and West Hamlet Road in Newcastle presented an “opportunity to take a step back and look at the future of our organization.” Read more – Miles Gift Shop Closes as Hospital League Shifts Focus…

Hallmark Opens Inside Renown Regional Medical Center

September 13, 2019

Renown Health has partnered with Hallmark Cards, Inc. to open a Hallmark Gold Crown store inside its main Renown Regional Medical Center campus on Mill Street.

Renown owns and operates the business “in an effort to provide patients and visiting families with meaningful gifts, heartfelt tokens and comforts of home.” According to Renown, it’s the first hospital in America to self-operate a Hallmark Gold Crown store.

“We’re proud to create a space where patients and their families can find gifts that foster a deep level of connection,” Renown Regional Medical Center Vice President and CEO Erik Olson said in a statement. “The new Hallmark Gold Crown complements the existing offerings in the Shops at Renown and removes an element of stress from our visiting families by providing expressions of support onsite.

The store offers more than 500 greeting cards and Hallmark Keepsake Ornaments, among other gift items. It offers unique products, gourmet food and books. There is also a curated collection of gifts from Vera Bradley, Willow Tree, Jim Shore, and Michel Design Works. Full article Hallmark Opens Inside Renown Regional Medical Center…

SPONSOR

SNOOZIES

What’s the most important reason
to stock and sell Snoozies in your
hospital gift shop?

THEY SIMPLY SELL LIKE CRAZY!
252-650-7000 ext 206 or 210
snoozies.com

Bounty Auxiliary Adds Online to BMH Gift Shop

September 12, 2019
The Daily Times

Suppose you’re on a fishing trip in Alaska, or it’s snowing like crazy in the foothills so you’re homebound. Meanwhile you learn a relative or friend is bedridden at Blount Memorial and you want do something to brighten their day, but you can’t get to the hospital. The Blount Memorial Auxiliary gift shop has just the answer for that. The auxiliary has initiated an online gift shop service that is available 24/7 anywhere the internet can reach.

The new online gift shop is accessible through the hospital’s homepage and is the result of a recent partnership with California-based Hospital Gift Shop. It’s the largest network of online health care shops with 750 direct hospital partners in the United States and Canada. Friends and family members can use this tool to easily send everything from flowers and get-well cards to balloons and gifts for a new baby to Blount Memorial patients.

“It’s really a chance to brighten a patient’s day,” said Blount Memorial director of Volunteer Services Connie Slingluff. “All gifts are delivered to the patient’s bedside, and many can be done the same day, including on weekends and holidays. If the patient goes home before the gift is delivered, we can make sure it gets to their home for them,” she said.

“It’s a great, handy way to let patients know you care, that you’re hoping for their speedy recovery or just that you’re simply thinking about them.” The Blount Memorial Auxiliary is made up of more than 250 active volunteers who donate more than 55,000 combined hours of their time each year to the hospital, making them a crucial part of the Blount Memorial team.

Every cent raised by the auxiliary through vending machine sales, fundraisers and sales at the hospital gift shop — including the new online gift shop — is donated back to the hospital or its entities. On Aug. 26, the auxiliary continued its tradition of giving back to Blount Memorial Hospital with a donation of $131,921.

Special deliveries

Through the online service, healthy commerce.com, the auxiliary can provide gifts such as edible arrangements prepared in Knoxville and delivered to patients at BMH. The gift shop in the hospital doesn’t have the capacity or equipment for that. Flowers ordered online are prepared and delivered by local florists.

“If you order online and the florist comes over here and tries to deliver, and say you were a patient and you’re not still here, it will go right back to the florist and the florist will take it to your house. That’s really nice. The customer service part is great,” Slingluff said. She’d been looking into adding the internet service for a while. “Lots of hospitals are partnering with this online gift shop. I network with all the gift shop managers in Knoxville and in East Tennessee. We share information,” Slingluff said.

She learned that BMH could benefit if the auxiliary expanded its offerings with an online service. “I went online and Blount Memorial was there, but because we weren’t affiliated we weren’t getting a percentage. I was looking for ways to increase our money so we could buy more patient items for the gift shop.” Now online is part of the Blount Memorial Auxiliary’s contribution to BMH, an added benefit for patients and their loved ones as well as to the hospital’s bottom line. There could be more to come, maybe online access to items at the hospital gift shop, but not just yet. “We’ll take baby steps. Maybe later on we’ll have something online that’s in the shop, be we’ve got to get this going first,” Slingluff said. Full article Bounty Auxiliary Adds Online to BMH Gift Shop…

August Retail Sale Grew 4.1% Over the Last Year But New Tariffs Present ‘Downside Risk’

September 13, 2019
National Retail Federation

Retail sales were up 0.4 percent in August seasonally adjusted from July and up 4.6 percent unadjusted year-over-year, the National Retail Federation said today. The numbers exclude automobile dealers, gasoline stations and restaurants. “While consumer attitudes about the economy indicate some retreating optimism, the bottom line is that consumer spending remained resilient in August and continued to be a key contributor to U.S. economic growth,” NRF Chief Economist Jack Kleinhenz said. Read more – August Retail Sale Grew 4.1% Over the Last Year But New Tariffs Present ‘Downside Risk…

Maggie’s Gift Shop at UM SRH in Easton Completes Renovation

September 11, 2019
The Star

Maggie’s Gift Shop in University of Maryland Shore Medical Center at Easton reopened Friday, Sept. 6, following a complete renovation and reorganization which lasted several months. The grand reopening event included a ribbon-cutting and remarks by UM SRH President and CEO Ken Kozel and Memorial Hospital at Easton Auxiliary President Liz Hannegan, as well as a round of applause for all those who worked on the redesign and renovation, including staff from Facilities Management and Environmental Services and shop volunteers.

The gift shop is an essential resource for hospital visitors and staff. Through its sales and the dedication of Easton Auxiliary volunteers, the shop raises thousands of dollars each year to benefit patient care and services, not only at UM Shore Medical Center at Easton, but also at Shore Emergency Center at Queenstown and the Cancer Center at UM SRH. Read more – Maggie’s Gift Shop at UM SRH in Easton Completes Renovation…

Americans Love Their Pets
Products for pets are big business. Make them part of your inventory twelve months a year!

The 10/10 System
Greet all customers once they are in the shop for 10 seconds or 10 feet in from the door. This greeting makes the customer feel good and the potential shoplifter very nervous.

QUICKCHARGE POS
QUICKCHARGE POS provides all of the point of sale features you need
in an easy-to-use solution with automated payroll deduction capabilities and reliable customer support.
Transitioning from your current POS system is fast, easy, and affordable.
800-348-5545  •  www.mmhayes.com/giftshopPOS

SNOOZIES
See our exciting 2019 Spring collection of foot coverings!
What’s the most important reason to stock and sell Snoozies^®
in your hospital gift shop? Because they simply sell like crazy!
Soft, comfy, warm, and simply adorable.
More colors and more new styles – the largest spring selection ever!
Check out our Opportunity Buys for great discounted deals.
252-650-7000 ext 206 or 210  •  www.snoozies.com

High-quality, inexpensive CELL PHONE ACCESSORIES!
Fast moving point of sale items with over 125% ROI!
Risk-free 90-day money back guarantee on all products.
No minimums and FREE shipping on orders over $100.
FREE acrylic display with kit purchase. PPP Member
888-317-0154  •  chris@SmashDiscount.com

ANDREW DISTRIBUTION for MAGAZINES & PAPERBACK BOOKS
For Hospital Gift Shops! Crossword Puzzles! Cell Phone Accessories!
Largest Percent Discounts!
Customize and change orders anytime!
Receive credit on all unsold magazines. Huge Magazine Selections!
708-410-2400  •  www.AndrewDistribution.com