According to a press statement from the National Retail Federation (NRF), holiday sales during November and December of 2017 increased 5.5 percent over the same period in 2016 to $691.9 billion. The results exceeded NRF’s forecast and marked the largest increase since 2010 after the end of the Great Recession. The numbers point to an optimistic outlook for some shoppers, and retailers can capitalize on this situation by offering the best merchandise, pricing and customer service to their loyal and new customers.
Scott C. BorowskyIn the articles offered in each issue of Souvenirs, Gifts & Novelties (SGN), we strive to bring store owners, managers and buyers new tips and advice that will help contribute to the best customer experience and create shopping momentum for better sales. The ads are another way we serve readers, and each issue brings our audience a look at the best new and proven merchandise. This February 2018 edition is no exception, and in it we also bring you many bonus features, including a special section to commemorate February’s American International Toy Fair in New York City. The section contains stories covering all types of toys for every age group.
Also in the issue, we offer an ASD Special Report section that includes stories on general merchandise, personal care and beauty products and more. Additionally, there is a section that covers sales trends at general and gift stores and hospital and country stores. Don’t miss the Halloween Show and Merchandise Preview where we interviewed party stores to find out the best-selling merchandise. And the Outdoor/Garden Feature offers interesting stories on florists, garden centers and botanical gardens.
Each issue of SGN also includes stories on jewelry, apparel and accessories, and in this edition, we look at these categories as they relate to public lands, boutiques, inspirational stores and others. Additionally, in the Resort and Beach Stores section, we cover gifts, apparel, souvenirs and more, and in the Gems and Minerals section, we look at home decor and jewelry gifts at caves and rock shops. And in the Zoo and Aquarium section, we look at name-dropped and baby animal-themed goods.
We are moving this month, and our new address is: 1062 Lancaster Ave., Suite 15-F, Rosemont, Pa., 19010.
I hope you enjoy the issue. If you have comments, questions or suggestions, please contact me by calling 610-645-6940 ext. 0 or emailing editorsgnmag@kanec.com and I will respond to your call or note personally.
Scott C. Borowsky
President and Executive Editor
Souvenirs, Gifts & Novelties magazine
1062 Lancaster Ave., Suite 15-F
Rosemont, Pa., 19010.
editorsgnmag@kanec.com
