Sales & Service Processes

One has to admire companies whose revenue comes from discretionary consumer spending, yet are booming in this economy.

Take, for example, a Chicago company that is experiencing head-over-heels growth because of what they’ve done to fit the times we’re in.  No, not Groupon – even though they would certainly qualify.

The Institute for Supply Management’s prices-paid index jumped to 81.5 in January, the highest level in more than two years, reflecting climbing costs for metals, chemicals and even soybean oil, the Tempe, Arizona-based group said today.

“One way stores attempt to beat this price-comparison game [while in a store, using smartphones to check online for better prices elsewhere] is by stocking products that manufacturers have slightly modified exclusively for them, signaling the phone that no other store has the product.”

Phone Wielding Shoppers Strike Fear Into Retailers

Steve was a character, a car nut, which might explain why he loved and tolerated that pony car.  A ’66 Ford Mustang convertible, shined till its glossy red paint seemed thin in spots.  Comfortable enough inside, with off-white leather seats and matching gearshift knob.  I hopped into the shotgun seat for a drive, top down, through the Catskills’ twisty scenic roads.  Steve q

An Obstacle to Sales Growth?

Americans of all ages and income brackets continue to grow increasingly unhappy at work - a long-term trend that should be a red flag to employers, according to a report released January 5 by The Conference Board.