Skip to main content
Small Business Resources: Industry Markets - Retail
- Articles - Whether an old hand at the retail business or the new kid on the block, in this section, the modern entrepreneur can find the basics - and beyond. The in-depth articles that follow cover a variety of business development topics, including Software and Hardware, Vendor Relations, Staff and Employment, Sales and Marketing, Customer Service and Purchasing, Insurance, and Communications.
- Trade Associations - Given the competitive nature of the retail industry, it makes sense to enlist fellow professionals for support and guidance. The trade associations described here perform many functions for their members, providing advocacy, credentialing, training and education and networking opportunities and much more. Some groups offer financial programs and scholarships.
- Industry Publications - Some of the finest chefs rely on their grandmothers' recipes. But in the case of restaurant pros, "cook-booking" may be as simple as referring to all the literature the industry offers! The links here lead to a nice sampling of professional publications for eateries of every type. As an added benefit, many provide online formats, as well as print versions, of their materials.
- Industry Resources - Finances, inventory, customer service - the challenges of the modern retail industry can stymie even the sharpest entrepreneur. By providing vital information at a moment's notice, a good resource list can be a godsend - and that's what hard-working retailers will discover here. Refer to this section for information on loan programs, technology, marketing and more.
- Trade Shows - What better way to learn about new products and services than to gather with fellow retailers in a lively, informative venue? Year-round, the retail community sponsors shows and conferences designed to help attendees sharpen skills and build business. This section features some of the leading industry events, along with descriptions and registration information.
- Industry News - The retail business is always making news - and because so much is happening, busy entrepreneurs simply can't get to it all. That's where this section can help. Visit often for top stories covering every aspect of the industry, including reports from the nation's leading newspapers, periodicals and trade publications.
- Licensing/Certification, Training & Cont. - The retail industry covers many specialties under its broad umbrella. In this section, business owners can explore an array of training and continuing education opportunities, particularly through the National Retail Federation Foundation. On the "niche" side, areas include: apparel and fashion; cosmetology (with links to state licensing boards); pharmacy retail and management; and grocery and food service retail.
