The Seven Product Categories Every Retailer Needs with Ari Lowenstein of Ari’s Pantry

How do you build a store customers love coming back to — not just for products, but for the feeling it gives them? Retailer and industry expert Ari Lowenstein, owner of Ari’s Pantry in Dallas, returns to the show to share his signature framework: the seven non-traditional product categories that keep customers engaged, coming back often, and ultimately spending more.

In this special Pro coaching call, Ari breaks down how these categories can double as your built-in social media plan, how they shape the customer experience, and why every retailer should be thinking beyond “plush, apparel, and gifts.” He also opens up about a major business disruption his flagship store recently faced — and the hard, eye-opening lessons around insurance, communication, and protecting hourly employees.

This conversation is part of a special Pro-only coaching call, the type members usually access inside IndERA Pro. Want more deep-dive sessions like this? Use code HOLIDAY to save $503 on your yearly Pro membership. You’ll get instant access to every 2025 replay and can start saving the dates for all 2026 coaching calls!

[3:18] The major building disaster that shut down Ari’s store — and the insurance gaps all retailers need to know

[10:15] How to prepare for unexpected business interruptions & protect your team

[14:18] Ari’s intro: his retail background, his stores, and how Ari’s Pantry came to life

[19:27] Category #1: The Staples — your foundation of customer trust

[23:04] Category #2: The Daily Dose — the low-price, high-frequency items that keep customers coming back

[23:47] Category #3: The Good Neighbor — products that make customers feel good through ethics, origin, or impact

[26:14] Why storytelling and signage make or break these categories

[28:41] How these seven categories instantly give you your social media content plan

Join the Rooted in Retail Facebook Group to continue the conversation

Join our newsletter for all the latest marketing news for retailers

Show off your super fandom by getting your Rooted in Retail Merch!