Resources for Retailers Guide 2009

Your list of business suppliers for POS systems, lighting, displays, and much more.

The mission of New Age Retailer is to help independent retailers like you succeed. To that end, we’ve compiled this list of resources to ensure your business runs smoothly from the inside out. Covering everything from point-of-sale systems to packaging, lighting to websites, this guide represents just a fraction of the products and services available to help you build a better business.

Selecting POS software
by Jeff Haefner

Finding the right POS software takes a considerable amount of research and effort on your part. Don’t expect any one company to be perfect. Find the one that comes closest, take the plunge, and elevate your business to the next level. Here are a few steps to get you started on the process:

1. Clarify your needs by asking the following questions:

How many transactions do I make per week?

How many items are sold in the average transaction?

What credit card or debit card approval systems do I currently use?

Do I offer gift certificates or gift cards?

Do I sell new or used books?

Do I offer DVDs or spoken audio media rentals?

What information do I want printed on receipts?

Do I want to track sales associate totals?

Do I age my inventory?

Do I want to be able to identify and list my top 100 customers? Send them an email?

Do I want to identify and list my 20 top-selling items? My 20 slowest-selling items?

2. Make a master list of all the features you want in your POS system by priority. Give yourself plenty of time to research, but set a reasonable deadline of when you’ll have your selection made.

3. Make a short list of vendors, looking specifically for software designed for your type of business.

4. Create a folder for each vendor you’re considering. Request product literature and demo software. While using each demo, make notes on a separate piece of paper and file the note in the vendor’s folder along with any brochures or collateral material they have sent. After watching half a dozen demos, the information begins to overlap and blur. You’ll want to take good notes so you are clear about which system did what.

5. Create a matrix-type spreadsheet to compare how vendors rate on your top priority features. For help with creating a matrix comparison chart, go to www.possoftwareguide.com.

6. Narrow your choices of POS products to just a few. Ask the companies for references from stores similar to yours in size and type of product. Take the time to call the owners and ask a few questions: What have been the benefits and challenges in using the software? Does the company respond quickly with effective support? Which features do they use most often?

7. Request full, personalized demonstrations of your top two or three choices.

8. Compare all the information you’ve received: itemized cost, system features, reference feedback, and your own intuition.

Since there are hundreds of POS systems available, we’ve broken this sampling out into several sections. First are some bookstore-specific systems, followed by tried and true, retailer-specific software companies, subscription-based systems, followed by a list of brokers, clearinghouses, and consultants.

Basic POS systems share a few components in common: hardware, including a screen, a cash box, receipt printer, and a bar code scanner; and software that drives the hardware and integrates with your accounting system. Because technology changes so rapidly and not all components work with others, it’s safer to build the system around the software, matching compatible hardware.

Bookstore-specific POS systems
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Do you sell new and used books? Need a POS system that handles returns on a regular basis? Bookstore specific POS systems have built-in ISBN tracking features, title search options, and create customer databases for author reading email announcements. All the ins and outs of running a bookstore are factored in.

BookManager
250/763-4415, www.bookmanager.com
Windows-compatible BookManager integrates POS ordering, receiving, returns, accounts payable, inventory control, customer info, vendors, invoicing, accounts receivable and other book industry-related tasks.

Visual Anthology
Anthology
800/977-8212, www.anthology.com
Easy-to-use POS and inventory management system designed for booksellers of new and used books. Manages POS transactions, purchasing, receiving, credit card verification, customer databases and emails, and more.

Retail ICE, Retail Star, and Star ecommerce
CAM Commerce Solutions
800/726-3282, www.camcommerce.com
Multiple products for retail including: Retail STAR multi-store automation, with import wizards for vendor databases and a report analyzer to help interpret sales data; Retail ICE for one or more stations; and STAR ecommerce.

Command Retail
Celerant
877/811-8500, www.commandretail.com
Celerant Command Retail is real-time Java-based software which integrates all areas of a retail business in one, complete system including point of sale, inventory management, e-commerce, advanced reporting and more.

Catapult
ECRS Software
800/211-1172, www.ecrsoft.com
Catapult POS system works with name-brand terminals and peripherals, offers back office capabilities, multi-store options, gift card and signature capture software, customizable touchscreen, and server-down security.

QuickBooks Point of Sale
Intuit
877/683-3280, www.quickbookspos.com
QuickBooks Pro, Basic, or Pro Multi-Store versions allow you to choose the level you need. Software available separately or bundled with bar code scanner, receipt printer, credit card reader, and cash drawer.

GiftLogic
877/405-4438, www.giftlogic.com
POS software in a friendly intuitive format handles purchasing, receiving, inventory control, register, customer database, reporting, and more. Integrates with Quickbooks. One year support and upgrades with bundled purchases.

Keystroke
800/359-3458, www.keystrokepos.com
POS features include out-of-stock alternate prompt, in-house bad check list, gift registry, 64,000-item inventory database capacity, variable pricing, passwords for security, purchasing and receivables functions.

POSitive Retail Manager
800/735-6860, www.gopositive.com
POSitive Retail Manager, POSitive Commerce for web-based business, POSitive Multi-Site for more than one location. SQL-based, tracks customers, inventory, AR, and AP. Built-in touch screen support.

CounterPoint
Radiant Systems
877/794-7237, www.radiantsystems.com/retail
CounterPoint (Enterprise, SQL Express, and V7) works with Windows, Unix, or SQL, and handles POS, inventory, customer database, sales history, and more. Ecommerce, credit card processing, and hardware options available.

RegistWARE
877/808-8923, www.registware.com
RegistWARE was designed for independent retailers to manage POS, inventory, customers, and accounting. Features QuickBooks interface, bar code scanning, credit card processing, employee security, and more.

Retail Edge
802/362-2296, www.retailedge.com
Easy-to-use POS system adds customers at the point of sale, tracks store credits, gift cards, voided sales, and payouts. Automatically prints detailed customer sales receipts. Handles receiving and inventory management.

Retail Pro
858/550-3373, www.retailpro.com
Comprehensive, scalable POS system with exhaustive sales, store operations, merchandising, payment processing, and planning features. Online training and support as well as system design and installation available.

ProphetLine
Spectrum Retail
800/875-6592, www.prophetline.com
Multi-featured Windows-based POS program with custom modules for specialty retail businesses. QuickBook and Small Busines Manager interface. Flexible options include subscription or purchase plans.

The Assistant Manager
888/843-1476, www.tamretail.com
Point of Sale is one of three scalable TAM options with basic POS capabilities and inventory management. Add-on features include customer tracking, and credit card processing, Visual Basic-Based program with a SQL server.

Subscription-based POS systems
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Subscription-based software requires less capital investment. Connect via the Internet and manage your account day or night from anywhere. Some include “redundancy” features that ensure that your operation keeps running even if your Internet connection goes down.

PayGo
Christian James
866/287-5576, www.paygosaas.com
PayGo SaaS is POS “software as a service” utilizing SQL and Java (PC or Mac) that reduces capital investment. Pay per active user. The scalable system includes real time reports, processes gift and credit cards, and more.

Effortless E.com
888/362-9307, www.effortlesse.com
Integrative inventory management system that handles sales, inventory, fee-free gift cards, and credit card processing for one or more locations. Web-based system can be accessed remotely.

Innuity
866/814-4080, www.innuity.com
Complete commerce packages for small business. Applications include POS hardware, software, and related services; merchant approval, acquisition, and management solutions; and payment processing services.

Merchant Technologies
800/395-8324, www.merchanttechnologies.com
Offers solutions for POS, inventory control, customer relationship, purchasing, e-commerce, and real time reports using Prism via the Internet. In-store processor allows full functioning even if the Internet is down.

Run It
888/777-8648, www.runit.com
Subscription-based POS system reduces start-up costs with a web-based system that uses Thin Client platforms instead of POS terminals. Write orders at trade shows, view Real Time activity from home, add kiosk stations.

Other POS systems
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The following is a small sampling of many POS and inventory control systems available.

Abacre
www.abacre.com
Windows-based software licensed in three levels for retail application. Purchasing, inventory, and staff management. Works with standard hardware. Flexible enough for one-station to multiple locations.

Attitude Positive
877/888-0880, www.attitudepositive.com
This menu-driven touchscreen system with built-in credit, debit, gift card capability offers multi-level security, detailed reports, customer tracking, bar code printing, accounting integration, and is compatible with most hardware.

Comcash
800/287-0008, www.comcash.com
This three-pronged SQL server-based software package includes Comcash POS, Manager, and Inventory for seamless integration for one to five stations features a QuickBooks interface, and web sale features.

Coresense
866/229-2804, www.coresense.com
Coresense offers four components individually or as a suite. This multi-channel management system handles sales, shipping, credit card payments, inventory and vendor databases, and customer relationships.

CyberMatrix
888/664-0383, www.cyber-matrix.com
CyberMatrix Point of Sale is a Windows-based software application for retail sales management with a receipt printer. Bar code scanner and cash tray are optional. Free downloadable trial. Import/export data to other applications.

POSDesigner
JPMA
877/576-2767, www.jpma.com
POSDesigner is a Windows-based software that allows you to customize a core POS system to meet your unique needs. With more than 4,000 options, flexibility and upgradability remains “in-house.”

Merchant Software
800/565-6675, www.merchantsoft.com
MerchantPOS provides POS software with an easy-to-use sales screen layered with one-touch detailed product information, inventory management, customer tracking and loyalty options, and multi-layered security.

pcAmerica
800/722-6374, www.pcamerica.com
POS system solutions featuring bar code-ready Cash Register Express with security features, credit card processing, database management, and built-in backup. QuickBooks compatible.

Encumpus for Retail
Premier POS
866/444-4278, www.premierpos.com
Encumpus for Retail is a touch-screen secure system that includes bar code inventory management, and Interprise Suite, an integrated accounting system that combines brick-and-mortar and web-based sales.

The General Store
www.thegeneralstore.com
Flexible, easy-to-use POS system with inventory management, customer database, accounts payable, accounts receivable, general ledger, and employee management features. Hardware also available.

Interprise Solutions
310/734-4290, www.interprisesuite.com
Fully integrated, customizable software suite, combining the speed of a desktop application with the convenience of internet-based solutions. Includes POS, ecommerce, CRM, inventory management, and accounting, all in one package. Subscription licensing available.

The Retail Solution
800/570-5509, www.nwns.com
Windows-based, The Retail Solution transforms your computer into a cash register, combining POS, inventory, customer tracking, general ledger, checkbook, accounts receivable, accounts payable, and scheduling.

Trak Systems
800/942-3008, www.traksys.com
POS system designed specifically for the retail music and record stores. Complete hardware and software management system includes computerized cash registers, bar code scanners, and receipt printers.

Hardware and POS components
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If you’re building your own POS system or upgrading your present one, the following are providers of quality POS components.

1st National Processing
877/964-1622, www.1nbcard.com/equipment.asp
Provider of credit card terminals, POS systems, check readers, e-commerce solutions for Internet payment processing, ATM machines, and merchant accounts.

One World Touch
888/928-2929, www.oneworldtouch.com
Specializing in touch-screen monitors, One World Touch also offers an integrated POS system with electronic cash drawer, receipt printer, bar code scanner, signature capture and payment devices, and other software and accessories.

Zebra Printing Solutions for Business Improvement
847/634-6700, www.zebra.com
Mobile systems that check inventory, access product information, process transactions, and issue receipts or rain checks. Desktop printers create RFID smart labels, and magnetic strip loyalty cards.

POS brokers, consultants, clearinghouses
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As a store owner, you wouldn’t try to install plumbing in your store (unless you happen to know a lot about plumbing). You don’t think twice about hiring a graphic designer to create a logo. Choosing a POS system that fits your store generally isn’t something you just intuitively know. It takes hours of research and a grasp of the interlocking components. If you’d like to spend more time doing the things you’re good at—selecting great wares, managing staff, creating eye-catching displays—consider hiring a consultant or turning to a clearinghouse that can match (and tailor) a reputable POS system to meet your store’s needs. Many offer packages that include installation, training, and support.

Advanced Retail Management Systems
800/305-0461, www.armsys.com
Advanced Retail Management Systems (ARMS) is one of the largest POS providers for small to mid-sized retailers in the U.S. and features Retail Pro, Microsoft Dynamics RMS and CounterPoint SQL.

Assured Computer Technologies
877/627-0636, www.assuredcomptech.com
Offering POS hardware, software, prepackaged bundles and a la carte options, data, security, and back-up solutions.

Discount POS
877/808-8923, www.discountpos.net
Complete POS system includes internet ready workstation with 17" LCD monitor, receipt printer, cash drawer, bar code reader, RegistWARE software, remote control software and office suite software. QuickBooks interface.

How to POS
866/755-1340, www.howtopos.com
Jim Dion’s clearinghouse of POS systems offers hardware, Microsoft software and bundled applications along with support and implementation. Website offers tips on selecting the right POS system for your store.

JD Associates
800/564-4488, www.jdapos.com
JD Associates offers tools for POS and inventory control with cafeteria-style and custom designed systems with a focus on shrink reduction and traffic counters, and featuring IBM hardware.

One Step Data
800/266-1328, www.onestepdata.com
Provider of retail management solutions with software, hardware, bundled systems, and support center. Software featured includes Retail Pro, CounterPoint SQL, Retail Teamwork, and Microsoft Retail Management System.

Point of Sale Software Guide
www.possoftwareguide.com
POS Software consultant Jeff Haefner’s website is packed with tips on choosing the POS system that’s right for your business. A downloadable comparison chart ($49) will save hundreds of hours of research.

POS Direct
800/622-7670, www.posdirect.com
Integrated POS and inventory control package using Microsoft Retail Management System, receipt printers, bar code scanners, bar code printer, cash drawers, ShopKeeper software (Mac), and payment processing.

POSGuys.com
800/903-6571, www.posguys.com
Posguys.com offers four levels of retail systems featuring Proxis Store Manager software as well as ala carte options for bar code scanner, pole displays, cash drawers, receipt printers, magnetic card readers, and POS supplies.

PosMicro
800/241-6264, www.posmicro.com
For the tech-savvy who want to build a POS system from scratch (or upgrade current systems), PosMicro is a clearinghouse for components such as bar code scanners, cash drawer stations, POS software, and receipt printers.

POSNation.com
877/727-3548, www.posnation.com/retail_pos
POSNation organizes retail systems by number of stations. Choose from complete systems including hardware or select a la carte components. Software featured is Microsoft POS and RMS and Cash Register Express.

Retail Information Systems
800/347-3020, www.budgetpos.com
RIS sells and installs POS, inventory control, and security systems to retail stores. Offerings include hardware, software, bundles, installation, training, and consulting.

Retail PC
www.retailpc.com
Portal learning center featuring ca micro POS system that includes Retail Management System, hardware, data integration and custom modules to tailor features to your store’s needs.

Retail-Pos
866/314-8164, www.retail-pos.com
Custom-tailored POS solutions for small retailers using Retail Management Systems and Dell products. Design, training, and support is included.

Retail Technology Experts
800/513-5917, www.retailtechnologyexperts.com
Retail Technology Experts, using Retail Pro or Microsoft’s Retail Management System, provide design for turnkey systems, implementation, training, and on-going support.

Retail Technology Resources
866/478-6770, www.rtrg.net/services.php
Clearinghouse for POS software providers matches retailers with partnered vendors.

Software Advice
800/918-2764, www.softwareadvice.com/retail
Software consultant/broker offers free POS recommendations for retailers. Provides guidelines and criteria to consider as you’re navigating the upgrade of your POS system.

Lighting
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Good ambient lighting is essential to a successful retail environment. Regardless of what system you choose—track, monorail, recessed cans, pendants, or a combination of several light sources—make sure the overall result is a pleasant wash of light throughout the store. Help customers feel welcome (and enter safely) with a bright entrance. Utilize spotlights to bring extra attention to displays and featured items. Focus task lighting over workstations such as the register and gift wrap tables.

When designing a lighting system for your store, look for those that use high-efficiency bulbs such as compact fluorescent (CFLs), and MR16 and CDM (70w) bulbs for spotlights. Electricity generation is one of the leading producers of carbon emissions, so choosing energy-efficient lighting is an easy way to reduce your energy bill and your carbon footprint.

elights.com
888/844-3332, www.elights.com/retailstore.htm
Entry lights, motion sensors, recessed, Energy Star, compact fluorescent and daylight fluorescent lightbulbs, exit and emergency signs, vandal-proof lighting, and more.

Green Culture Lighting
877/204-7336, www.eco-lights.com
Track lighting, flush-mount, pendants, wall sconces, Energy Star ceiling lights and a solar-powered LED motion detector.

Green Earth Lighting
512/944-7354, www.greenearthlighting.com
Outdoor lighting featuring glare-proof shielding, commercial-grade wall mounted luminaires.

Green Electrical Supply
877/652-9640, www.greenelectricalsupply.com
Extensive selection of CFL bulbs including spirals, 3-Way, globe-shaped, dimmable, 5000k day light simulators, flood, and high-wattage. Also Ecologic HPS lamps available.

It Signs
877/302-7551, www.itsigns.com
Back load and front flip open frame poster lights (lightboxes) with either LED or cold cathode fluorescent lamps, and LED lights.

Light-A-Store.com
888/220- 8108, www.lightastore.com
Track lighting, monorail, flexrail, pendants, recessed lighting, case-pack quantities of light bulbs, and exit and emergency lighting. Free lighting design and layout service.

Lighting Experts
877/544-4177, www.lightingexperts.com
Recessed lighting for CFL bulbs, track lighting, ceiling lights, pendants, commercial, bulbs, and accessories. High efficiency MR16 and CDM (70w) bulbs.

Lightology Architectural Collection
866/954-4489, www.lightology.com
Energy Smart options. MonoRail and Kable, Freejack, ceiling, wall, recessed, pendant, floor, suspension, flex strip, track, tech track, stage fixtures, signage, and more.

Pegasus Associates Lighting
800/392-4818, www.pegasusassociates.com
Track lighting, showcase, recessed, pendants, sconces, display lighting, shelf lights, rope lights, Energy Star bulbs, ceiling lights, exit and emergency lights, and more.

Tailored Lighting
800/254-4487, www.solux.net
Solux is patented to replicate natural daylight, found to increase sales 31% to 49%. Monorail and monopoint systems, track lighting, ceiling, recessed, and Solux bulbs.

Viva Green Lighting
888/898-8184, www.vivalighting.com
China-based company that produces energy-efficient fluorescent lamps, ballasts, fixtures, and compact fluorescent lamps.

Display supplies
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As an independent retailer, you take pride in your unique selection of products, carefully selecting each one to create a distinct mood in your store. How you choose to display those products also affects your store’s character; it’s part of the branding that tells your customer what they can expect.
Display systems add a foundation of structure and organization. And, while wall-length grids might not fit the style of your store, shelving, cubes, baskets, and gondolas can be used to create pleasing focal points. And units that allow you to display from floor to eye-level can help maximize available space.

AAA Displays
866/421-0961, www.aaadisplays.com
Variety of retail display products including acrylic displays, wire displays, bullnose shelves, slatwall and gridwall panels and fixtures, and more.

Acme Display Fixture and Packaging
888/379-9566, www.acmedisplay.com
Display source featuring cubes, risers, mirrors, tables, jewelry forms, slatwall fixtures, sign holders, showcases, security products, lighting, shelves, bags, boxes, and more.

Advantage Fixtures
800/543-7395, www.advantagefixtures.com/
Choose from poly bags, assorted acrylic displays, jewelry displays, acrylic sign holders, bags, display tables and pedestals, towers, duron shelving, and more.

Allen Designers
800/523-1192, www.allendesigners.com/tips.asp
Broad variety of retailer supplies: countertop and jewelry displays, floor and cube merchandisers, packaging and shopping bags, security devices, signs, lighting, and more.

AZ Retail Supplies
800/777-1214, www.azretail.com
Tagging and pricing guns, merchandise tags, receipt paper, promo and price stickers, avery labels, bar code supplies, and more.

Bethel Store Fixtures
866/924-3968, www.bethelfixtures.com
Grids, racks, shelving, showcases, mannequins, slatwall accessories, tables, acrylic displays, sign holders, hangers, and counter displays.

Capitol Store Fixtures
888/657-9555, www.csfixtures.com/
Acrylic risers and displays, jewelry display forms, grid and slatwall systems, racks, security, bags and boxes, showcases, sign holders, and more.

Collector’s House
800/448-9298, www.collectorshouse.com
Wholesale source for display products such as jewelry displays (t-bar, easel, bust), jewelry boxes and pouches, risers, riker displays, mirrors, price tags, and more.

Custom Creative Plastics
305/233-6534, www.customcreativeplastics.com
Wholesale supplier of retail supplies including risers, bases, pedestals, countertop displays, bins, cubes, greeting card displays, jewelry displays, mirrors, and more.

Displays2Go
800/572-2194, www.displays2go.com
Displays to go offers glass display cases, acrylic showcases, wall mounted display cases, tower showcase, retail displays, and store fixtures.

Display Direct
888/638-2216, www.displaydirect.com
Display showcases, gondolas, acrylic displays, cash wraps and register stands, shelving, wall systems, specialty racks, counter displays, visual merchandising, and more.

Display Warehouse
800/842-5501, www.displaywarehouse.com
Jewelry displays including velvet, acrylic, metal, and crystal (frosted acrylic). Also counter displays, pedestals, gift boxes, papers, and paper roll cutters, and more.

Econoco
800/645-7032, www.econoco.com
Large selection of retail store fixtures and visual display products including acrylic risers, cubes, and easels, counter displays, tables, merchandisers, pedestals, and more.

Ecowood Displays
800/452-1679, www.ecowooddisplays.com
Sustainably made retail store fixtures including beautiful wood cash wrap counters, freestanding floor displays, tables, perimeter systems, bamboo hangers, and more.

edisplays.biz
800/787-3823, www.edisplays.biz/products.html
Online source for retail risers, mannequin stands, product display stands and column pedestals, tiered end cap display shelf, tiered and multi-level product display trees.

Gershel Brothers New and Used Store Fixtures
800/962-5307, www.gershelbros.com
Risers, baskets, cubes, jewelry displays, hand trucks tagging and marking guns, bags, showcases and counters, slatwall and gridwall systems, baskets, bags, and more.

Ginny’s Ear Nest
800/324-3277, www.ear-nest.com
Wall-mount or tabletop earring, bracelet, and necklace rack or carousel organizers handcrafted from golden oak, purple heart, and rich walnut.

FixturePronto
916/797-1030, www.fixturepronto.com
Acrylic display risers, cubes, two- and three-tier round riser sets, single and multi-tiered card racks, lighting, wood and glass shelving, modular bins, multi-level tables, and more.

KC Store Fixtures
800/868-2013, www.kc-store-fixtures.com
Wide selection of acrylic displays, bags, bows, ribbons, boxes, display cases, easels, glass units, gondola shelving, jewelry displays, pricing supplies, signage, and more.

K-D Display & Design
800/916-9663, www.kddisplay.com
Beautiful solid wood display fixtures including crates, cubes, pedestals, shelving, gondolas, display hutches, tables, shelving, slatwall systems, etageres, and more.

Interior Retail Supplies
800/836-1852, www.iretailsupplies.com
Canadian wholesaler of retailer supplies such as bags, boxes, gift wrap, shelving, fixtures, and more.

Lotta Displays
714/352-0944, www.lottadisplays.com
Specializing in jewelry merchandising supplies including ziplock bags, earring, necklace, and bracelet cards, pvc bags, price tags, ring tags, and a “lotta” jewelry displays.

Manne-King
800/779-1566, www.manne-king.com
Wide variety of retail supplies such as acrylic display trays, bins, risers, bases, merchandising systems, racks, signage, shelves, grid panels, bins, hooks, and more.

nu-era.com
888/467-8673, www.nu-era.com
Retail supplies and store fixtures including green bags and boxes, pricing supplies, showcases, hangers, LED signs, racks, shelves, gift packaging, and holiday decor.

Opto International
847/541-6786, www.optosystem.com
Opto offers contemporary design of 2-way, 3-way, and 4-way gondola units, feature units, mounted wall units, cashwraps, and retail counters.

PaperJack.com
888/655-0511, www.paperjack.com
Receipt paper rolls of all types: thermal, white bond, 2-ply carbonless, self-contained, colored thermal, double-sided, and mobile printer paper rolls.

Potomac Display
410/374-9495, www.potomacdisplay.com
Wholesale source for sphere and mineral display bases, display cases, acrylic displays, countertop tables, display bins, cubes, and pedestals, jewelry displays,

Premier Packaging
800/203-5558, www.retailpackaging.com
Select from gift wrap and gift basket supplies, cello wrap, poly bags, ribbon dispenser, cello/foil cutter, pricing guns, tissue dispensers, shreds, bags, boxes, and more.

Retailonics
877/785-6642, www.retailonics.com
Display supplies including jewelry showcases, wrap counters, register stands, wall units, glass shelves, risers, tiered display tables, racks, bins, spinners, bags, and more.

Smart Fixtures/Smart Furniture
888/467-6278, www.smartfixtures.com
Tool-free assembly. Towers, cubes, tables, contour wave shelves, pedestals, stand-alone displays, light cube floor lamps. Free store design service.

S&L Store Fixtures
800/205-4536, www.slstoredisplays.com
Jewelry displays, wood neck and hand forms, showcases, display supplies, low voltage lighting,packaging supplies, wood displays, spinners, garment racks, and hangers.

Sturdy Store Displays
866/389-9919, www.streamlineshowcases.com
Streamline showcases including jewelry cases, wall cases, display towers, pedestal cases, cash wrap, corner wrap, wall mount cases, countertop cases, and more.

Subastral
888/624-8222, www.subastralinc.com
Unique wrought-iron earring, bracelet, ring, and necklace display stands, earth-friendly clothes hangers, and store fixtures.

Tap Plastics
800/246-5055, www.tapplastics.com
Wholesale source for acrylic displays, brochure holders, cleaners, polishes, plastic containers and organizers, window film and more.

The Fixtures Group
800/642-9929, www.fixturesgroup.com
Display cases, gondola and retail shelving track lighting, glass shelving and displays, acrylic displays, slatwall and gridwall systems, cabinetry, and more.

The Retailer’s Catalog
800/543-6650, www.theretailerscatalog.com
Wholesale source for labelers, bags, cash management, cleaning supplies, display carts, surveillance, gift wrap, register supplies, signage, and more.

Trio Display
800/454-4844, www.triodisplay.com
Resource center for retailers: 5,000 supplies from displays to anti-fatigue mats, store design consultation, custom and bundled POS systems, retail classes, and more.

Woodland Marketing
800/762-1796, www.woodlandmarketing.com
Wood display fixtures. Tables, pedestals, spinners, shelves, etageres, panel display systems, jewelry displays,
crates, baskets, and accessories. Custom design available.

Woodpak
604/533-3266, www.woodpak.com
Manufacturer of custom,handcrafted wooden packaging, boxes,and retail displays including essential oil merchandiser, swivel display stands, and soap display box.

WR Display and Packaging
800/561-1204, www.wrdisplay.ca
Supplies including Enviro-Packaging, plastic Oxo-Bio biodegradable retail bags, recycled paper shoppers, and recycled gift wrap, jewelry, and free-standing displays.

Retail store supplies
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Whether your strategy is using a one-stop supplier, or shopping for the best price item-by-item, the retail-specific suppliers below have something to offer your store.

ABC Target
800/940-5733, www.abctarget.com
Retail supplies including bags and boxes, product displays, showcases, security products, labels, jewelry display forms, signage, mirrors, and more.

Abstracta
800/223-7315, www.abstracta.com
Modular, stackable display fixtures including etageres, towers, cubes, pedestals, and shelving.

Action Bag Company
888/715-3458, www.actionbag.com
Wholesaler offering acrylic displays, bags, gift baskets, boxes, cards, gift certificates, labels, LED signs, shrink wrap, poly bags, bubble mailers, zip bags, and more.

Alibaba.com
www.alibaba.com/showroom/jewelry_bag.html
Clearinghouse of global suppliers organized by product and country of origin. Dozens of sources of jewelry and packaging supplies, most exported from China.

American Retail Supply
800/426-5706, www.makeyouhappy.com
Green retail supplies including bags, tissue, boxes, and shred. Also acrylic and glass displays, cash registers, price marking equipment, fixtures and display items, and more.

Center Coin
877/571-4400, www.centercoin.com
Coin-store oriented, but offers jewelry cleaners, display trays and pads, zip-lock bags, and magnifiers. Also carries Harry Potter coins and Lord of the Rings coins.

Fetpak
800/883-3872, www.fetpak.com
Online wholesale ordering with free shipping (in the U.S.) of jewelry display items, gift packaging, organza pouches, poly bags, shrink wrap film, labels, and pricing supplies.

Gift Box Corporation of America
800/443-8269, www.800giftbox.com
Bags, boxes made from 100% post-consumer waste, reusable jute bags, tissue, ribbon, gift wrap, bow machines, wrap dispensers, paper cutters and more.

Hubert
800/482-4357, www.hubert.com/retail/storesupplies
Supplier of display props and décor, fixture systems, floor and countertop fixtures, gift wrap and packaging, jewelry displays, pricing, labels, showcases, and more.

Mac Paper Supply
800/486-5783, www.macpaper.com
Packaging wholesaler offering natural and traditional gift wrap, tissue paper, bags, boxes, ribbons and bows, gift basket supplies, packaging accessories, and holiday items.

Madix Store Fixtures
800/633-6282, www.madixinc.com
Madix Store Fixtures offers vast array of structural components for retail environments including freestanding and speciality displays.

Nashville Wraps
800/547-9727, www.nashvillewraps.com
Green Way is Nashville Wraps’ new line of environmentally sensitive retail packaging goods with as much as 100% post-consumer waste content. Custom printing available.

Noble
800/463-8388, www.noblepack.com
Jewelry boxes, hands and neck displays, jewelry displays in clear or frosted acrylic, leather, or wood, Zero Tree packaging supplies, gift baskets, gift wrap supplies, and more.

Of the Earth
888/294-1526, www.wholesalesupplies.biz
Of the Earth’s new EcoTwist Ribbon is made from vegetable-dyed recycled paper.

PackagingSupplies.com
800/536-3668, www.packagingsupplies.com
One-stop supplier of shipping supplies including boxes, shipping envelopes, bags, tape, cushioning, shrink wrap, labels, mailing tubes, janitorial supplies, and more.

Paper Mart
800/745-8800, www.papermart.com
Exhaustive supply of boxes, tins, tubes, plastic, poly, and shrink bags, gift bags, fabric bags, gift wrap supplies, packing materials, janitorial, and safety items for retailers.

Perennial Paper
800/340-4631, www.perennialpaper.com
Produces sustainably minded gift wrap, gift cards, ribbon, and tissue paper using organic cotton, hemp blend paper, or recycled paper from 100% post-consumer waste.

Specialty Store Services
888/441-4440, www.specialtystoresservices.com
Impulse counter displays, large and small display systems, jewelry displays, shelving, gift wrap, shrink-wrap, LED signs, labels, cash registers, maintenance items,and more.

Store Supply Warehouse
800/823-8887, www.storesupply.com
Free guide for new store owners. Bags, boxes, clothing racks and hangers, display cases, fixtures, jewelry displays, pricing and security supplies, signage, and more.

Thunderbird Supply Company
800/545-7968, www.thunderbirdsupply.com
Large supply of jewelry display items including bracelet, chain, earring fixtures, and necklace forms. Also plastic boxes, jars, and bags, and cotton-filled gift boxes.

Uline Shipping Supply Specialists
800/958-5463, www.uline.com
All manner of shipping supplies including poly bags, bubble wrap, markers, stretch wrap, bar code labels, envelopes, bags, boxes, tape, cushioning, scales, and more.

Valu Display
888/421-4241, www.valudisplay.com
Discounted retail supply source. Bags, display, gift wrapping, hangers, labels, signage, pricing, banners, tags, size markers, stationery, security supplies and more.

Virginia Aaardvark
888/227-3875, www.vaaardvark.com
Jewelry tags, price tags, labels, stickers, tag guns, zip ties, hooks, hangers, clips, and packing supplies.

Consultants, networks, trade organizations
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The adage “there’s strength in numbers” is one the independent retailer can benefit from. Running a retail shop doesn’t mean you have to go it alone. The following are a list of business resources that you can rely on for support, business advice, networking, and insider tips from others in the industry.

American Independent Business Alliance (AIBA)
406/582-1255, www.amiba.net
AMIBA provides Independent Business Alliances with resources, templates, how-tos, advice, and information to get started and grow.

American Management Association (AMA)
877/566-9441, www.amanet.org
A selection of free online resources designed to keep you informed and help you achieve your business goals including research, an online library, book excerpts, and more.

Business Alliance for Local Living Economies (BALLE)
415/255-1108, www.livingeconomies.org
BALLE is the world’s fastest growing network of sustainable businesses committed to building local economies
sustaining healthy community and economic vitality.

Coalition of Visionary Resources (COVR)
973/838-2280, www.covr.net
COVR members receive free retailer mentoring, helpful articles, marketing strategies, discounts from COVR vendors, a message board, and networking opportunities.

DNI Retail Design
800/886-6883, www.dniretaildesign.com
High-end retail store planning services include design concepts, space planning, logo design, signage, and recommendation of fixtures.

Entrepreneur Magazine’s Small Biz Books
800/421-2300, www.smallbizbooks.com
Books for small businesses including start-up guides, retail store guide, marketing information, and more.

Indie Bound
www.indiebound.org
IndieBound rallies around a celebration of independent stores and independent thinking.

Plan Magic
www.planmagic.com
Business plan template specifically for retailers.

Small Business Administration (SBA)
800/827-5722, www.sba.gov
Clearinghouse of information for the small business owner.

Retail website designers
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If you’ve enlisted a local graphic designer to create your logo, business cards, and brochure, ask if they have experience creating a website. A gateway page that provides basic information such as store hours, address, phone number, and a description of your store is within the scope of most professional designers. Be certain the design carries the same tone as your store. If you’re setting up an ecommerce site with a shopping cart and a selection of products, you’ll want to look for a Web design company that is highly experienced in that aspect. Some work from templates, inserting your information. Others custom design the site specifically for you. Below are a few that offer both design and hosting, and have experience creating retail sites. Your business community may be able to recommend a local design company as well.

Heritage Web Solutions
866/754-1479, www.heritagewebdesign.com
Provides custom designs and web hosting for independent retailers and ecommerce solutions for web-based sales, database development, full tech support, and logo design.

Mindfly Website Design and Development
360/647-7470, www.mindfly.com
Provides custom designs and web hosting, ecommerce solutions, full tech support, and graphic design.

Timothy Flatt Studio
301/608-3138, www.timothyflatt.com
Visionary artist Timothy Flatt offers logo design, website design and makeovers, as well as complete branding packages -- business cards, letterhead, ads and posters.

Volusion
800/646-3517, www.volusion.com
Affordable ecommerce hosting packages that can be integrated with QuickBooks. Design services are available or choose from free or tier-priced templates.

Jeff Haefner has been working with retailers and POS software for 15 years. He is a retail technology consultant and the author of Point of Sale Software Buyers Guide. Learn more about POS software at www.possoftwareguide.com.