“This year is proving a pivotal one on so many levels, with so much change and significant happenings both within the greeting card industry, the UK and the world at large,” stated Jakki Brown, editor of Progressive Greetings. “Within this is the continuing and important role of independent retailers. The PG Retail Barometer, the only annual survey into the trials, tribulations and triumphs of the independent greeting card retailer provides invaluable insights and annual benchmarks as to how business is going for these greeting card champions,” she added.
This year’s PG Independent Retail Barometer survey has just gone live which will see thousands of independent greeting card stockists being asked to confidentially share their business’ ups and downs, highlight areas of growth and future opportunities, as well as tell home truths about which competitors they see as real threats.
What are your expectations for your business in 2019?
“Tough” was the one word that most independent card stockists felt summed up trade last year – but what will be the magic word for 2019?
This time last year, indie card stockists were full of gusto about 2019 with 46% predicting growth this year, albeit marginal. It was supermarkets who were seen as the retailers posing the biggest threat to their trade, due to their enviable footfall, invariably free parking and improvements in their greeting card selection and display, although Card Factory was a smidge behind the grocers.
How do you view supermarkets’ expansion on cards over the last year?
Humorous cards were feted as the category which showed the greatest growth while social media, shop improvements and loyalty building initiatives were highlighted as having been boons to their business.
Independent retailers are welcome to access the survey here.
The survey can be completed in sections so they can stop and start when needed. Respondents just need to be sure to access the link using the same device, however all answers are final once they click ‘done’.
The results of the Barometer will be revealed in the February edition of Progressive Greetings.
Above: The PG Independent Retailer Barometer will reveal how trade has been in 2019 for indie card stockists.
