How Small Stores Can Lure Holiday Shoppers
Customer service is one of the most powerful weapons in the small retailer's arsenal. Using this weapon to full effect is the challenge facing local retailers this holiday season.
Call it a customer service Christmas. Consumers are expected to rein in spending this year, and the retail climate favors big-box stores that can offer bargains. But becausesmall retailers can't win price wars (BusinessWeek.com, 4/14/08), experts say independents need to leverage their biggest advantage over the chains: personal relationships with customers and the ability to deliver superior service.
