Retail is deeply rooted in both history and community at Bailey's General Store. A fourth-generation, family-run business with more than a century of legacy, the store has long served as a cornerstone for residents and visitors alike. Today, Bailey’s operates locations on Florida's Sanibel and Captiva islands, continuing to serve customers even as the business rebuilds following Hurricane Ian.
Xplorer Maps' products feature detailed, nature-driven illustrations that reflect the location experience.
Photos: Nick Adams
That connection — to place, to people and to experience — extends directly into its product mix. And for more than a decade, the
Xplorer Maps line has played a key role in helping tell that story.
A Natural Fit
Bailey’s has carried Xplorer Maps products for well over 10 years, with consistent success from the start.
“We were really successful at the Xplorer Maps line from the get-go, and it’s just continued,” says Richard Johnson who runs the business with his wife and adult children.
The appeal lies in how closely the product aligns with the location. Sanibel is known for its preserved natural habitats, which the community and visitors enjoy.
“I think the Xplorer Maps line of products represents that thought and that look and feel,” he says.
A full range of products
Bailey’s carries nearly the full Xplorer Maps assortment, both in-store and online, with a wide range of products resonating across customer segments. Top-performing categories include mugs, canvas tote bags and shot glasses.
"The canvas tote bags are just a huge item for us — we’ll order 500 to 1,000 of those at a time.”
— richard johnson
“The ceramic mugs do real well,” Johnson says. “The canvas tote bags are just a huge item for us — we’ll order 500 to 1,000 of those at a time.”
Other consistent performers include magnets, dish towels, coasters, playing cards and note cards.
“Just about every Xplorer product we carry in our store,” he says.
That breadth allows Bailey’s to meet a wide range of customer needs while maintaining a cohesive story throughout the store.
All about presentation
Presentation plays a key role in bringing the product to life. Bailey’s leans into its heritage, using antique fixtures and creative displays to showcase the assortment while encouraging product interaction.
Customers are drawn to the many Xplorer Maps products that capture the natural vibe of life on Sanibel and Captiva.
“We have an antique dressmaker’s frame, and we drape the blanket over it so it almost looks like a flowing dress,” Johnson says. “It gives people a chance to see the whole thing unfolded, rather than just simply hanging."
A Partnership That Works
Beyond product, Johnson points to the strength of the relationship.
“The relationship’s always been wonderful,” he says.
That support proved especially valuable as the business adapted following Hurricane Ian, pivoting to online sales and reopening in a smaller format.
“They were right there to help us get our inventory back in place and be able to offer the Xplorer Maps line of products to our customers,” Johnson says. “I've never had a challenge."
Thinking Like a Retailer
For Johnson, what ultimately sets the brand apart is, “They think like a retailer,” he says.
That perspective shapes everything from product development to logistics — and ensures “their success depends on my success,” he explains.
About Xplorer Maps
Xplorer Maps connects people and places through hand-drawn "story maps" that celebrate the heritage and conservation of iconic destinations. Co-founded by Greg Robitaille and world-renowned artist Chris Robitaille, the Missoula, Montana-based company creates intricately detailed renderings that pay homage to early cartographers. Every line and icon is original, designed to foster deep connections to national parks, states, and landmarks. Committed to sustainability, Xplorer Maps uses eco-friendly materials, including soy-based inks and 50% post-consumer paper. Beyond wall art, their illustrations are featured on jigsaw puzzles, apparel, and home decor. A portion of every purchase supports conservation and community stewardship worldwide.
xplorermaps.com • xplorermaps.com info • 406-830-1001
