#030: Retail Resilience: Navigate Tariffs, Grow Customer Loyalty, and Scale Smartly

Is the economy slowing down? Maybe. But that doesn’t mean your retail business has to.

A fellow retailer recently asked Cathy a powerful question: “How to continue growing with an economy that’s in decline?” In this episode, Cathy answers with clarity, encouragement, and action. She shares the exact retail growth strategies you can use even in a slow economy to keep your momentum going. From smarter inventory management to strengthening customer loyalty, you'll walk away with data-driven ideas to protect your cash flow and stay inspired. Plus, Cathy reminds us that rising costs and tariffs don’t have to derail your store, you have more control than you think.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• The economy may slow down, but your store doesn't have to.
• Control what you can; don't let outside factors dictate results.
• Engage loyal customers through personalized outreach.
• Building a strong community around your brand is essential.

Key Takeaways:

• [01:56] The question that inspired this episode: “How to continue growing with an economy that’s in decline?”
• [03:47] Cash flow tip: stop letting slow sellers take up space
• [05:12] Rising tariffs and costs? Here's how to tariff-proof your store (see Episode 22)

Resources Mentioned:

• Listen to Episode 22 – Tariff-Proof Your Store with Dana Connell
• Episode 29: a great question from the audience, “How Do I Scale If I'm in the Red?” Cathy shares her personal “Millie moment” and the right order to grow your retail business when cash is tight
• Apply for your Gameplan Call here. If Profit Club isn’t the right fit right now, the application will guide you to a program that is, so you have nothing to lose by applying because there’s always a next level, and we’ll help you get there
• Get the Clearance Sale Secrets program now to liquidate unwanted retail inventory in 6 weeks, without destroying margins or discounting best sellers

Millie Moment:

• Take a moment today to review your inventory.
• Identify slow-selling items that are taking up space and capital.
• Create a plan to move those items through:
  • Promotions
  • Bundle offers
  • Clearance sales

Clearing out slow sellers will free up space for faster-moving products and improve your cash flow.

Connect with ambitious store owners in the Richer Retailer Facebook Group.

Share this episode with a fellow store owner and help them tackle cash flow challenges!

Remember, even when the economy is unpredictable, you have the power to control what’s in your store and how you manage it. Small steps like this can make all the difference in keeping your business strong, no matter the outside challenges!