Is the staff boost worth it? And have you ever overhired?
Staff costs do increase as do sales but most importantly so does customer satisfaction and that is what brings them back again and again.
We have never over-hired and have always managed to have the staff we have be there when needed and do the extra hours.
Staff interact well with our customers and when required, seek assistance from each other to insure the customer needs are met.
What special service do you offer over Christmas?
As we pride ourselves on being a full service retailer, wrapping becomes a full time job.
We also have tea tasting and Christmas treats. Many of our customers don't want to take gifts home until closer to Christmas so use our lay-by service which they cannot do
when buying on line from other sources.
Our stores are very open and spacious giving a feeling of calm rather than clutter. Both are fully air-conditioned and there is space to browse and not feel pressured. This layout was by design and was a major part of winning the award in Chicago.
Next week: A number of enterprising companies are creating apps for their own purposes and for others. There are also a number of apps being developed for small businesses to help them manage their businesses better. I'd like to hear from all of you who are particularly proud of your app especially if it can be used by others too.