Welcome to Spring!  I can’t help but marvel at the rebirth associated with the season…the flowers, trees grass…all of nature comes alive after the winter months of dormancy.

 

We have seen a similar dynamic when it comes to the customer demand as well as the business relaunch following the clearance months of January and February.  Customers came out with high expectations to refresh their wardrobe and revisit their favorite place to shop.  The system delivered strong YOY growth, particularly where Spring goods were set early and when combined with the shift of Easter, March finished strong.  With total sales growth of 4%, many of the top two-thirds of the system grew double digits to LY and/or Plan.  Great momentum leading into the peak months of Spring and Summer! April is a key month as it builds toward May’s peak demand.  In fact, April through July for most locations represents as much or more than the Q4 Holiday business. Lauren shared that the system inventory is well-positioned in Tops and chasing Dresses.  In the Spring/Early Summer months, these two categories can represent over 65% of total shop revenue.   I encourage you to be on the offense, and be certain you’re ready to meet the customer demand.  Bring your assortment and experience alive through “call to action” social and digital media.  Being best at Product, Presentation, and People will differentiate your boutique in the marketplace and generate more Productivity.

 

Enjoy scrolling through “In The Know.”  There are many best practices shared and insights to winning at Spring.  All of these resources can help you meet and/or exceed your sales plan in April, May, June, and July!  

 

Don’t think twice about reaching out to your HQ partners if you have questions.  Here’s to making it happen!

 

Chris