stylesmart.com is pleased to introduce Lois Beery of Millennium Fashion Services as Contributing Editor to stylesmart.com's Retail Trend Reporting and Consulting Services.

As a former buyer and merchandiser, Lois Beery brings over thirty years of fashion experience to Millennium Fashion Services (MFS). Lois' background includes an extensive tenure within the 'majors' and the specialty market.

Whether you own a specialty store in a small town, are a buyer or merchandising manager at one of the department store giants, or are a designer/manufacturer, MFS offers personalized services tailored to individual needs that will ultimately improve your bottom line.

Recession-Proofing your Business

By Lois Beery, Millennium Fashion Services

The retail business is one of the most demanding industries. All issues are time sensitive and Specialty Store owners wear a variety of hats to insure that operations run smoothly. My hat is off to all of these owners now because, by and large, in a very difficult retail climate they are enjoying tremendous success while other retail groups are wringing their hands because of weak business.

My polling of several Specialty Stores shows current sales increases in the 15-25% range ~ this is superb during a 'so called' recession. You are obviously doing the right things to bring your customer into the store.

As you move into the New Year, here are some ideas to help you improve your bottom line when you thought you'd done everything you could to control expenses while enjoying the ride of strong sales.

First, turn to the colleges and universities and Hire Interns whenever you get a chance. Most programs at major universities require internships (usually free) or co-op programs (nominal pay) to give students hands on experience. You benefit from their fresh point of view, a huge enthusiasm to learn, and their active participation in the company's day to day business. Time framesvary, but usually a semester or summer is normal.

Second, Get Marketing Advice and fresh perspectives on your marketing plans through partnering with a local community college or university. Work with a professor in fashion marketing who can assign your business to a student committee who will review
current company initiatives and recommend new directions. No cost and no obligation to hear their recommendations ~ and potentially a lot to gain.

Third, Score with SCORE! While young dedicated students can be a tremendous energizing asset, you can also turn to experience with SCORE: The Senior Cooperative of Retired Executives, for free assistance in a broad range of subjects from proven industry executives with real world experience.

If there isn't a physical presence of SCORE in your community, you can access their web site at www.score.org and review a host of information including:

· Hiring for small businesses
· E-commerce initiatives
· Marketing your business
· Legal issues
· Technology needs
· Building your business

To learn more about Millennium Fashion Services and how they can help contact stylesmart.com at retailservices@stylesmart.com or 1-877-427-4464 or visit www.mfashions.com.

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