One Step Retail Livewire

Ignore the Economy

2009-03-23T15:15:00.000-07:00

The March issue of BusinessSolutions published a great article, "Ignore the Economy." Rather than paraphrasing what I want to point out, here is a clip from it (author, Mike Monocello):

I’m not denying that the economy isn’t struggling. It’s now a sad reality. However, I don’t think things are as bad as most people think. I’m not alone. For instance, at the NRF (National Retail Federation) BIG Show 2009 in New York City, I had the opportunity to speak with more than 20 lead executives from a variety of manufacturers in retail. Nearly all of them told me they haven’t seen the type of recessionary slowdown the media and analysts have been stressing over. However, many of these executives also admitted their companies are being very cautious. Chances are, you’re in the same situation of cautiously waiting things out. My question is, how long will you wait and keep your business in a stalled state? Or better yet, why wait?

He goes on to say that there is mounds of actionable information available to retailers to improve their retail business.

One Step can advise you on a course of action if you need some help. We also provide free business analytics.

Story source: http://tinyurl.com/d4kanw

American Apparel's Profits Rise

2009-03-23T15:04:00.000-07:00

Our client American Apparel Q4 profit rises 30%

Clothing maker American Apparel Inc's fourth-quarter profit jumped 30 percent, helped by growth in retail sales at its U.S. Retail, Canada and international business segments, but forecast 2009 sales below analysts' estimates.

The company, which plans to open 25 to 30 stores in 2009, said it expects net sales of $575 million to $600 million in 2009 and income from operations in the range of $55 million to $65 million.

The company -- known for its brightly colored basics, pro-labor policies and racy marketing -- posted a fourth-quarter profit of $3.9 million, or 5 cents a share, compared with $3.0 million, or 6 cents a share, a year earlier.

www.onestepretail.com

Clovers Natural Market Replaces POS System

2009-03-18T09:22:00.000-07:00

One Step Retail Solutions and Clovers Natural Marke t of Columbia, Missouri are happy to announce the implementation of CounterPoint SQL by Radiant Systems point of sale (POS) software in these popular mid-west markets. Clovers will be replacing all of their POS systems with Radiant Systems hardware and CounterPoint SQL software, supplied by One Step.

Scott Kreisberg, CEO of One Step stated, 'We are pleased to be a part of this long-established, thriving natural products market and their continued expansion. We are always happy to support retailers like Clovers, who have the long term in mind, not only for themselves, but for the betterment of their customers and their community.'

After going through a complete Needs Analysis with One Step Retail Solutions and a thorough demonstration of the software, it became clear that CounterPoint SQL had the features that Clovers was looking for, including integration of a scale at checkout. Clovers also found that One Step could give them a level of support that they had been lacking with their previous system and that the 23-year history and experience of One Step would assure them of a stable business partner for years to come.

With two stores in Columbia, Clovers has been a part of their community since 1965 and specializes in organic produce, gourmet and specialty products, gluten free, sugar free, low sodium, frozen and refrigerated products, coffees, teas, books, incense, candles, with an extensive supplement selection including vitamins, minerals, herbs, and homeopathics.

Retail Boom Forecast

2009-03-17T16:26:00.000-07:00

Phoenix historical economist forecasts surprise retail boom in 2009
A combination of legislative mandates, the Stimulus Plan, reduced competition and new consumer savings and income could result in surprisingly robust retail sales by the Fourth Quarter of 2009.

H.L. Quist says, "I'm not an expert on retail but I do have an excellent track record of analyzing economic and political trends and forecasting future events. An unusual confluence of factors are coming together which could bring a pleasant surprise to the devastated retail industry."

H. L. Quist is the author of "The Aftermath of Greed: Get Ready For The Coming Inflationary Boom."

Read full press release:

http://www.prweb.com/releases/2009/03/prweb2220824.htm

This news was also posted on the company’s new Twitter account: http://twitter.com/onestepretail

Retail Store Making Right Decisions

2009-03-16T15:58:00.000-07:00

In a recent case study by One Step Retail Solutions on Pump Station in Santa Monica, CA, the store increased its sales 20% in the last three years. A second store opened up 3 years ago in Hollywood, CA, watching sales go up 83%. Two more stores are being planned to open up this year, 2009.

Pump Station COO Cheryl Petran attributes their growth and continued success to point of sale technology which allowed them to forecast sales and manage inventory better.

With better financial planning and profit goals, Pump Station owners have been able to gain insight into what is going on in their business and use the reports to make the right decisions.

Ms. Petran feels they are out-pacing the economic downturn by forecasting smart and managing the inventory to her forecast. “Being proactive means forecasting, facing the reality of it and dealing with it,” said Cheryl Petran, COO of Pump Station.

“If you can really look at where you think you’re going to be and be realistic about it, then you can survive. I have a POS system with history that I can use for expansion. With our POS system we can quickly evaluate if our decisions were good or bad. I learned many years ago to manage your inventory smart and manage your vendors smart.”

Pump Station is continuing to expand their retail business, despite the changing economy.

Note: One Step Retail Solutions installed Retail Pro point of sale software, robust POS hardware, and hand-held scanners. The system is integrated with POS QuickBooks.

Technology Pavilion at MAGIC

2009-03-02T15:10:00.000-08:00

One Step Retail Solutions was in the Technology Pavilion at MAGIC in February. The pavilion offered free cappachino and a Wifi center. See photo montage:

Here are some photos:

The Specialty Retailer Advantage

2009-03-02T10:22:00.000-08:00

With the recent government numbers showing specialty retailers down 19 percent, the focus for these retailers has shifted to being more promotional, buying smarter and not piling up on inventory. They are also making deals with vendors to get flexible deals. And they are moving toward improving their retail management technology in an effort to re-organize and become more efficient.

In all the changes an independent retailer faces, bringing customers to their store is the primary goal. Obtaining loyal customers is bringing them back. When people walk into a store, they want to know the people at the store. It's about relationships and that is what separates the independent specialty retailer from the big-box retailers.

In a recent Webinar with Kevin McAdam of One Step Retail Solutions, he talked about what a retailer should know about in surviving the current economy. He discusses retail Key Performance Indicators and how to read and interpret them, the various ways to use technology to increase profits, decisions a retailer has to make about their inventory, and how to overcome obsctacles during a recession.

Watch Webinar "The Truth All Retailers Should Know About Surviving in the Economy in 2009".

Strategies for Economics of Retailing

2009-02-20T14:20:00.000-08:00

There's a lot of talk about the need for retailers to shift their operating strategies due to the down economy. The necessity to evaluate retail business solutions and employ new tactics and strategic inititives with technology is more crucial than ever in order to meet today's challenges.

The key areas for retail success hinge on the retailer's ability to control inventory, streamline purchasing and receiving, improve customer and vendor management, integrate accounting and eCommerce, and use reporting features that give them insight into their retail business.

The most important approach to transform the business of retailing then is implementing a strategy that focuses on those key things. Lucky for retailers, a good POS software system like Retail Pro and CounterPoint have the features and tools that put a retailer in control.

The landscape of economics may change, and a retailer needs to navigate through anything. If a retailer is using a comprehensive POS system, this is what they can leverage in not just the current economic climate, but in any kind of economic times.

Lift Your Retail Spirits

2009-02-16T10:44:00.000-08:00

In an article "How to Lift Your Retail Spirits" by Matt Parmaks, he talks to retailers about getting back to basics to ensure retail success. We published this in our "Retail Buzz" in Dec. 2008, as we thought it timely to help retailers take a look at some things they can do to improve their business.

If you subscribe to our quarterly publication, The Retailer Report, last month we published an article "Weathering a Storm In the Retail Business" by Kevin McAdam. This was actually a chapter in Kevin's eBook "Succeeding in the Retail Business During Economic Stress."

Another related article that you might find helpful is What Retailers Can Do in a Down Economy by Scott Kreisberg.

Successful strategies have proven to lift retail spirits because, all in all, when you're looking at solutions instead of the problems, you'll be much better off.

Relax in our Technology Pavilion at MAGIC

2009-02-04T14:29:00.000-08:00

MAGIC Marketplace
February 17, 18, 19
Las Vegas Convention Center
Booth# 17031 North Hall

One Step Retail Solutions is doing something new and exciting at MAGIC Marketplace this year and invites retailers to come by, get some free coffee and relax in their Technology Pavilion located in the North Hall, White section of Woman's Apparel.

The Technology Pavilion is a large and comfortable space filled with cushy couches and chairs for retailers to get off their feet, take advantage of complimentary coffee at the coffee bar, and have Wi Fi access to download email.

One Step staff will be showing the latest HP hardware, Panasonic security cameras, the new Quadrox security system, Retail Pro and CounterPoint POS software, and BizCampaign, a way to centralize and coordinate all your marketing functions.

Contact One Step that you're coming! (800) 266-1328, or send Email to sales@onestepretail.com.

Webinar: Truth About the Retail Economy in 2009

2009-01-15T12:53:00.000-08:00

One Step Retail Solutions is hosting a live Webinar, "The Truth About the Retail Economy in 2009 - How to Make this Year Your Best Year Ever"

Date: February 10, 2009
Time: 11:00AM to 12:00PM PST.

Space is limited.Reserve your Webinar seat now at:https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/720110200

Join retail expert and author Kevin McAdam for a 45-minute discussion on the cold hard truths about creating retail success during tough times.

Find out:

The 5 most important Retail Key Performance Indicators for you, how to read them and how to interpret them.
The numerous ways you can use the technology you already have to increase profits.
The 5 decisions any retailer has to make about his inventory.
The biggest obstacles to retail growth during recession and how to overcome them.

Having shepherded retailers successfully through the past economic recessions over the last 23 years, One Step Retail Solutions knows how to take advantage of the economic climate to make 2009 your best year ever.

Join Kevin McAdam for this fast-paced live webinar to find out how to make this year your best ever.

After registering you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the Webinar.

Reserve your seat now:
https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/720110200

Sports Apparel Case Study

2008-12-15T10:06:00.000-08:00

One Step Retail Solutions performed another Retail Pro case study with Sportech, an athletic footwear and apparel store in Port Chester, NY. The store opened 16 years ago and manager Soung Kim talked about her experience with Retail Pro:

"We got on Retail Pro in 1995. You can figure the math there but that's the only system we've used. The store, when we first got it, was about 2000 square feet and now we are at 5600 square feet, so keeping track of our inventory has definitely helped us make larger profit margins, as well as not over-purchasing, so we were able to turn out a profit and expand the store. "

See full case study at:
http://www.onestepretail.com/profiles/sports_apparel.php

Swimwear Case Study

2008-12-15T09:59:00.000-08:00

In a case study with Gone Bananas located in San Diego, CA, owner Tom O'Hara speaks about his experience using Retail Pro point of sale software.

When asked about financial benefits, Tom said:

"We have now grown to where we're one of the largest single operations of swimwear in the US. Sales and profits have increased to levels which we would have never dreamed of. We're also online now and have synched our online store to our inventory. This feature of Retail Pro makes the online sales aspect of our store much easier. We'll be seeing more sales through the Internet as well."

Full case study at:
http://www.onestepretail.com/profiles/beachwear.php

Round Table for Retail Execs

2008-12-08T08:01:00.000-08:00

One Step Retail Solutions is holding an exclusive Round Table for retail executives. The topic is "Are You Crazy Enough to Expand in This Economy?"

Kevin McAdam, author of "Success in the Retail Business During Economic Stress" will present a proven strategy that will enable retailers to open new stores and actually expand in 2009, despite all the doom and gloom economic headlines.

This special open-mic Round Table is an excellent opportunity to speak with Kevin and other retailers about expanding while everyone else is trembling.

December 10, 2008
11:00 AM (PT)

Limited to only 25 attendees! Reserve your space now!

Send Email with your name, company, title and email address and you will receive instructions to join the meeting: sales@onestepretail.com or call (800) 266-1328.

New Book Release

2008-12-04T13:17:00.000-08:00

One Step Retail Solutions has released a new eBook, "Succeeding in the Retail Business during Economic Stress" by Kevin McAdam which offers insight and strategies for retailers suffering at the hands of a struggling economy.

Looking at trends in retailing and current industry news spouting doom and gloom, Kevin McAdam gets to the bottom line with survival strategies that help retailers adapt to changing technologies and the new realities of the marketplace.

“This book is very timely because of the current economic conditions, and Kevin really gets into the necessities of what retailers should do during challenging times,” says Scott Kreisberg, CEO of One Step Retail Solutions. “His strategies point out how retailers can not only survive, but thrive during these conditions. I can personally vouch for the validity of his strategies, since I passed on these strategies to him and have watched my clients remain profitable during three economic recessions over the past 20 years as a result.”

This book is a compilation of articles from Kevin's column in a newsletter published by One Step Retail Solutions, advising its retail customers how to get through the economic climate of decreased sales numbers.

Alicia Kreisberg, Chief Operating Officer at One Step claims, “Retailers will find this book very insightful, particularly because the approach and principles outlined in Kevin’s book are taken from the same practices we use at One Step with our clients. No matter what the economic climate is, we make sure that our clients have the tools to succeed.”

Retailers will find in-depth methodologies for such matters as weathering a storm in the retail business, increasing sales through channels of retailing, having the right product at the right place at the right time, how retailers should focus on their core strengths, and adjusting a retail business to changing economic times.

The eBook version is now available as a free download at www.onestepretail.com/retail/ebook.php.

Free Webinar for Retailers

2008-10-20T10:09:00.000-07:00

Announcing...The Roll-up Your Sleeves, Time for the Cold Hard Facts, Make Sure You Survive the Economic Downturn FREE WEBINAR.

"How to Adjust Your Retail Business to The Changing Economic Times"

Date: November 12, 2008
Time: 11:00 AM (PT)
For: Retail business owners and managers

With our hand on the pulse of retail, we told you back in March what you needed to do then to thrive in the coming economic downturn. Many retailers took this to heart and are growing and expanding. What can you do now that the economic bad times are here? Adjust. Find out how in this hard-hitting, no holds barred, confront the facts, 1-hour webinar.

Join Kevin McAdam, author, speaker, Vice President of One Step Retail Solutions and co-founder of the Retail Technology Resources Group for this new retail-business-owner specific, 1-hour time investment, survival course.

In this webinar you'll find out about:

How you can increase your bottom line, even while sales are decreasing.
The 5 things that you must have going for you to ensure your staying power.
The 2 most important assets that retailers have and how to make them work for you.
The 14 biggest obstacles to retail store survival.
Real life examples of how some retailers are able to expand during hard economic times while others go under.

This will be the best hour you could invest to ensure your business survives! You will learn why 87% of retail businesses fail and how you can avoid being one of them!

Be quick! RSVP now...Go to www.onestepretail.com/webinar
Registration is free, but required. Limited space- only 200 spots available!

Retail Pro Business Partner Award

2008-10-07T10:18:00.000-07:00

Retail Pro, Inc. announced its awards for Global Business Partner of the Year and Global Top Sales Award at its annual Business Partners Conference in San Diego, California. The winner of both awards was One Step Retail Solutions.

“Once again, One Step Retail Solutions has proven itself to be an outstanding business partner and brings to its clients, some of the leading specialty retailers in the world, the benefit of excellent advice, service and support,” said Retail Pro’s Ken Sapp, Senior Vice President for Global Sales.

In accepting these awards, One Step COO Alicia Kreisberg stated, “This is definitely a team effort and we think our team is the best around. We also know that our success is based on the fact that our purpose is to improve how retailers run their business by using technology to boost efficiencies and collect valuable information that can help them make the right business decisions. We give each retailer personalized attention and ensure the technology they chose fits their individual business needs."

One Step Retail Solutions has been Retail Pro’s Global Business Partner of the Year for the last two years and was also awarded the Inc 5000 award for 2007, as one of the 5000 fastest growing companies in the US.

New Retail Survival Test

2008-08-26T14:53:00.000-07:00

One Step Retail Solutions has just launched an online Retail Survival Test to help retailers measure their store's future success in the economic downturn.

The retailer will find out how healthy their store operations are and what their chances of making it through the next few years of business and come out the other side thriving.

Take the Retail Survival Test and see how your store measures up against the leading survival indicators and success predictors. You'll receive a score and analysis of your store's results by email immediately following the test.

Take test now >>

Retail Pro 2008 Users Conference

2008-08-18T16:25:00.000-07:00

Retail Pro users should be getting ready to rock 'n roll at the 2008 Retail Pro Users Conference in San Diego, CA next month from Sept. 14 through Sept 16 at the Hard Rock Hotel.

Anyone who uses Retail Pro will find this year's conference highly informative and a must attend event. Focusing entirely on current users and potential users, Retail Pro will deliver an exciting, educational, and eye-opening conference.

To register, go to www.retailpro.com/2008uc

Call us at One Step Retail Solutions to let us know you're coming! (800) 266-1328 or send email to sales@onestepretail.com.

Coming to MAGIC and MRket

2008-08-04T14:34:00.000-07:00

One Step Retail Solutions will be at MAGIC Marketplace and MRket this August and wants to show retailers how POS can give them an advantage through down-turning economies and increase the chances for success.

MRket - August 24-26
The Venetian Hotel in Venetian Ballroom in Las Vegas
We're in the MRket Zone in WiFi Lounge

MAGIC - August 25-27
Las Vegas Convention Center & Las Vegas Hilton
Booth # ME-2627 in Central Hall

Contact One Step for a no-obligation discussion with a retail expert to find out how POS could make the difference in whether you will still be operating next year or in the next five years.

Call (800) 266-1328 or send Email.

New Radiant Counterpoint Business Partner

2008-07-16T02:59:00.000-07:00

Yesterday One Step joined up with Radiant Counterpoint as Business Partners. See the photos:

More news on this to come!

L.A. Roadshow Photo Montage

2008-07-01T10:05:00.000-07:00

Watch this photo montage of our L.A. Roadshow ...

The Roadshow at The Grove

2008-06-10T17:00:00.000-07:00

One Step Retail Solutions is presenting The Roadshow at The Grove in Los Angeles, CA. This is a popular event among One Step's customers, and is hitting the road to present the event in key cities. The last event was a Meet & Greet in San Diego and the L.A. Roadshow will be followed with a roadshow in New York.

Speakers from One Step include:
Peter Pishko, VP Operations
Kevin McAdam, VP Sales
Charles Wood, Director of Tech Services

Special Guest Speakers include:
Mike Yanchison, SonicWALL
Rebecca Ramme, UniteU
Michael Dattoma, The Bart Group
Hewlett Packard speaker TBA

It's a day designed to bring together our clients, our staff and invited vendors to network and exchange ideas to motivate and inspire you.

When: June 18th, 9 AM to 5 PM
Location: The Grove, at Third & Fairfax, Los Angeles, CA
(free valet parking)

Limited seating! RSVP to chepner@onestepretail.com or call 818-543-4777 Ext. 4125.

Click here to see full details of event.

Free Retail Tech Check

2008-06-04T15:34:00.000-07:00

One Step Retail Solutions wants you to prosper in today’s economy and be a cut above your competition. Discover what you can do about it and how to better manage your retail operations, no matter what the economy is doing. Our Retail Tech Check is a complimentary service provided by our retail consultants who are experienced in retail business and operations.

One Step's retail experts will look over and assess your specific retail business, current business processes and technology, and challenging areas. Our consultants don't stop there however. They inform you how to overcome any weaknesses and enhance your strengths using a technology strategy that can take you beyond the norm you're used to.

Click here to get a free Retail Tech Check

New Retail Whitepaper Released

2008-05-22T08:47:00.000-07:00

One Step Retail Solutions recently published a new retail whitepaper, updated from report "The 5 Biggest Challenges Retailers Face Today". The new whitepaper entitled "The 6 Biggest Challenges Retailers Face Today" expands on today's challenges and contains updated and new research in the retail industry.

Download a complimentary copy at:
www.onestepretail.com/retail/6bc-whitepaper.php

New Retail Pro video

2008-05-06T16:31:00.000-07:00

Retail Pro, Inc. recently released a new video about how retailers are using Retail Pro point of sale software in their business. Watch this fun 5 minute video and see for yourself how Retail Pro is the POS system of choice for many retailers worldwide.

Retail Webinar-on-Demand

2008-04-03T16:14:00.000-07:00

Today's economy is on shaky ground for retailers. One Step Retail Solutions' new Webinar-on-demand informs retailers what they can do to prevail in "How Retailers Can Thrive in Today's Challenging Economy."

Find out how to prosper in today's economy and be a cut above your competition. The economy is cycling down. Learn how this is affecting retail and what you can do about it to help you better manage your retail operations and prosper, no matter what the economy is doing.

This webinar discusses:

The current outlook for retailers
Getting through extended slow seasons
Capitalizing on your strongest assets - your customers
Maximizing profit margins with your inventory
The competitive advantage of a POS system
Investing in the infrastructure of your business.

Watch this webinar!

New Retail Webinar

2008-03-17T10:10:00.000-07:00

Upcoming webinar "How Retailers Can Thrive In a Challenging Economy" will focus on principles that will help reshape the way retailers manage their retail operations and prosper, no matter what the economy is doing.

Featured speaker is Kevin McAdam, retail expert from One Step Retail Solutions.

Registration is free, but required.

Retail Tips from Rick Segel

2008-02-05T08:42:00.000-08:00

If you haven't seen Rick Segel's Retail Tip of the Week bulletins, I think you're missing out on some great stuff. His latest bulletin shows results from a retail survey Rick did and it is very enlightening. Here's a link to the PDF version of it:

http://www.ricksegel.com/newsletter/rtw20080205.pdf

His retail humor in the sidebar completely cracked me up, too. But the meat of the bulletin is his tips to retailers to improve their retail operations. I encourage you to check it out! Oh, check us out while you're at it!

http://www.onestepretail.com

The New, Better Retail Pro Version 9

2008-01-21T14:37:00.000-08:00

The newest version of Retail Pro can't be beat. No one else offers what this retail management software provides for small and midsize specialty retailers.

Retail Pro Version 9 offers localization for support, currencies, and languages and is now written in 18 different languages and supports 17 different currencies.

This POS inventory management software handles retailers from a single store to 500 stores. It has been and remains the industry's leading POS software for independent retailers.

Try a LIVE online demo of the newest Retail Pro version and see for yourself.

Sign up for a live demo of Retail Pro V9 now.

Free Retail Webinar

2008-01-07T16:39:00.000-08:00

Webinar: How Retailers Can Maximize Profits in the New Year
Date: January 24, 2008
Time: 2:00 PST (1 hr)

Sit in with retail experts and hear about the impact retail technology will have for retailers in 2008. This webinar features retail experts and senior executives from One Step Retail Solutions, discussing the principles that will reshape the way you manage your retail operations.

Speakers:
Scott Kreisberg, CEO
Peter Pishko, VP Operations
Kevin McAdam, VP Sales
Charles Wood, Director of Tech Services

Don't miss this rare opportunity! Register now!

New Retail Whitepaper

2008-01-04T13:39:00.000-08:00

One Step Retail Solutions Releases New Whitepaper "Keeping Up with Retail Technology to Increase Profits and Customer Satisfaction."

Retailers face tough challenges to stay competitive and it becomes critical to find new ways to increase the productivity and efficiency of their businesses. Therefore, to succeed in today's complex retail setting, the right blend of ingredients is critical.

In this whitepaper, it identifies how to meet today's retail challenges and achieve increased productivity through retail point of sale solutions.

Download a complimentary copy of this retail whitepaper.

Retailers Adapting New Strategy on Inventory

2007-12-20T10:04:00.000-08:00

During the mid-season holidays, retailers are finding that they need to establish new strategies on inventories because their inventory may not support markdowns.

Leaner stockrooms mean less incentive to slash prices to get goods out the door. Expect fewer late-season sales touting 50% or more off original purchase prices. Not that some big sales won't be found.
Of course, the less an item is predicted to grow sales, the more likely retailers will slash prices. Jewelry, which Retail Forward predicts will grow sales just 1% over 2006, qualifies this year. And furniture, expected to see a 1% drop in sales, could be a strong markdown despite not usually being associated with gift-giving. -- from Forbes article, 11/29/07

See full article

For more a free retail consultation, contact One Step Retail Solutions to schedule one today!

Gift Cards Are Good Business for Retailers

2007-12-11T10:46:00.000-08:00

According to an online American Pulse survey, many Americans would rather give than receive. And, when it comes to giving, many just want to ensure that they get the right gift and avoid the recipient arriving at the returns window.

Of the 4,069 respondents, 52.1 percent said they would rather receive a gift card or cash than gifts this holiday season. Of those, 29.6 percent preferred a gift card and 22.5 percent wanted cash.

The survey found that 45.4 percent received a gift of clothing that they didn’t like or wear last year, and 46.3 percent hate the hassle of returning gifts. Of the respondents, 22.7 percent would like to exchange gifts for things they would rather have; and 22.5 percent have "re-gifted" gifts received.

Concerning gift cards, 82.4 percent agreed they are a smart gift alternative for people they don't know well. But 10.5 percent admit they had "re-gifted" gift cards received; 13.5 percent have received gift cards that they've never redeemed; and 16.1 percent have received gift cards that they've only partially redeemed.

Read full article.

Visit One Step Retail Solutions about implementing a gift card program in your store.

Dec. Discounts on Retail Pro

2007-11-29T11:01:00.000-08:00

Online shopping during Cyber Monday (Monday after Thanksgiving, known as Black Friday in retail outlets) surged 26%, indicating that the holiday season is off to a good start. The peak shopping days are expected to continue this season, both for online activity and brick and mortar retailers.

More than 42% of adults will shop online this holiday season, up from the 40% who shopped online last year, according to Consumer Reports. And Internet access at home will spend 11 hours shopping for the holidays. The poll also showed that the number of people planning to shop is up 4% from last year.

While it may be understood that this is a promising holiday season for retailers, if they are not prepared for a heavy shopping period, they could lose hundreds of thousands of dollars in lost revenue. A retailer not having integrated eCommerce with their point of sale software system is going to lose out on the success online retailers are having this season. Also, slow checkout can make customers walk out the door, and a robust point of sale software system, like Retail Pro, is equipped to prevent that from happening.

To assist retailers in getting a comprehensive POS software system One Step Retail Solutions is offering specials throughout December on Retail Pro – starting with a 30% discount on Retail Pro during Week One of December, with an additional 10% with the purchase of POS hardware. It’s the biggest discount of the month, so it’s a perfect time for retailers who need a better POS system to take advantage of One Step’s offer at the beginning of Dec.

Contact a sales representative at One Step today. Call 800-266-1328 or email sales@onestepretail.com.

Read article:
“More than 40% of adults plan to shop online this holiday season”

Online Retailers Plan Deals for Cyber Monday

2007-11-19T09:26:00.000-08:00

In the Boston Globe article "Online Retailers Plan Deals for Cyber Monday," it states:

A Shop.org survey issued today said that 72.2
percent of online retailers are planning a special promotion for Cyber Monday -
the Monday that follows Thanksgiving - up from 42.7 percent from two years ago.

This is the biggest shopping day of the year and marks the beginning of the retail holiday season. This 4th quarter shopping can account for 50% to 70% of retailers’ sales and profits for the entire year. Read full article.

According to the National Retail Foundation’s 2007 Holiday Consumer Intentions and Actions Survey, conducted by BIGresearch, U.S. consumers will spend an average of $816.69 on holiday-related shopping and spend an additional $106.67 on special “non-gift” purchases during seasonal promotions and discounts offered by retailers. The total of $923.36 indicates an estimated 3.7 percent increase over 2006, according to the news release.

Another news article "Selling the Retail Season" states,

Gift cards are expected to extend the holiday shopping season into 2008,
according to Niemira. An estimated 30 to 40 percent of those receiving
gift cards are expected to redeem them in the week after Christmas and into
January.

Read full article.

Record sales of gift cards predicted

2007-11-05T15:16:00.000-08:00

Press Release excerpts:

New technology for retail management of gift card programs through retail point of sale systems drive growth ahead of holiday season.

According to a National Retail Federation survey, gift cards have become the number one selling item at retail stores. With the adaptation of new technology for online management through POS retail system, rates of acceptance of integrated gift card program has skyrocketed.

The National Retail Federation reported that this year’s holiday gift card sales will reach record-high sales to $35 billion, continuing year over year at over 50% sales growth since gift card programs first rolled out in 2004 and 2005.

Retail chains also have made a big effort to upgrade to more sophisticated software such as Retail Pro at the point of sale to process gift cards. Retail Pro is a highly sophisticated point of sale software that includes the capability to integrate gift card programs.

Video Interview with Scott Kreisberg CEO

2007-10-29T16:28:00.000-07:00

Watch our new video "Interview with Scott Kreisberg"

One Step Awarded for Top Sales of Retail Pro

2007-10-25T09:20:00.000-07:00

One Step Retail Solutions received the Global Business Partner of the Year Award from Island Pacific at the awards event in San Diego, CA this week. The awards event took place at the Wave House in San Diego and recognized One Step for achieving Top Sales of Retail Pro worldwide.

“It is always important to be recognized for the accomplishments of the group as a whole. Receiving the honors of being the best Retail Pro Service Provider, for the US and World wide, acknowledges all the efforts made by everyone at One Step Retail. It reflects our dedication to our customers and their businesses. It is also nice to have that recognition from the other Retail Pro Dealers, our peers”, says Charles Wood Director of Tech services at One Step Retail Solutions. "

Darren Williams COO of Island Pacific and Ken Sapp VP Sales of Island Pacific presented the two awards to Alicia Kreisberg Chief Operating Officer of One Step Retail Solutions.

New Retail Pro Website

2007-10-18T09:19:00.000-07:00

Yesterday One Step Retail Solutions launched its Retail Pro website featuring their premiere retail point of sale software - http://www.retailprosoftware.com/. With the same look and feel as the company's main website, this site primarily focuses on Retail Pro and the Retail Pro Shop Edition - a POS system that includes software, hardware, installation and training all under $5,000.

Visitors of our main site will still find the Retail Pro forum and blog, as well as an upcoming video tour of the product.

You can sign up for a free online LIVE demo of Retail Pro with one of our representatives, or contact a One Step consultant at (866) 266-1328.

Using POS to Improve Customer Satisfaction

2007-10-11T16:23:00.000-07:00

In a recent article posted at One Step Retail Solutions, "How POS Adds Up to Improved Customer Satisfaction," it states that a retailer can achieve insight into what they have on hand to target specific buying habits of their customers and drive them back to their store.

A retail business runs on accurate information or it doesn't run well. In its elastic ability to gather and store customer information and selectively retrieve it in hard copy or electronic reports, POS technology can help isolate existing clientele groups based on an almost infinite variety of business-dictated parameters in hundreds of ways. Accurate data based on criteria such as: location, sales history in dollar amounts, items bought, time of year, price range, age, sex, marital status, children, items favored, popular styles, sizes, colors, brands, etc. can help determine trends.

This is a great article, so check it out!

Accept Gift Cards This Holiday

2007-10-02T11:54:00.000-07:00

In 2006, gift cards surpassed Apparel as the #1 gift - they were second in 2005. NRF continues to expect 2007 sales to increase 4.8% over 2006.

Achieve more profits by accepting gift cards - now is the time to integrate your credit and gift card processing with Retail Pro. Right now Retail Pro customers get a 30% discount on PC Charge or Shift4 with our preferred processor. Limited offer - expires Oct. 31st.

The success of gift cards is well documented and now you can take gift cards on Retail Pro to increase revenues and eliminate the administrative hassles of paper gift certificates.

For more information, read about Retail Pro Payment Solutions.

To read similar article on gift cards, read Gift Cards Are Changing Retail.

New PR Manager

2007-09-27T13:56:00.000-07:00

Paul Van Kleef has come to One Step Retail Solutions as the new PR Manager and brings with him a strong background in PR work. His experience includes PR and marketing for a consulting firm Hollander & Associates, a resort in Niagara Falls called Campark Resorts, the software company Diskkeeper, and an Internet-based classified company. Paul is also a graduate of a top Business School in Los Angeles, HCA International.

"I plan on working with One Step to get broadly known all the successes and functionality our product delivers to the retail market," says Paul.

Paul will start his Retail Pro V9 campaign to educate people about its new, improved upgrade. To reach him, you can contact him at (866) 266-1328 Ext. 4164.

Retail Pro Partner Conference

2007-09-10T10:18:00.000-07:00

One Step Retail Solutions will be attending the annual Retail Pro Partner & User Conference on Oct. 14-16, 2007 in La Jolla, CA. The conference will feature how to help retailers keep up with the constantly changing retail industry and explore the latest industry trends.

Retail Pro customers will also be attending the conference and be able to test the brand new functionality of Retail Pro V9, learn about other products such as Retail Pro Payment Solutions, Planning and Business Intelligence, how to stay competitve in the current retail environment, and meet other successful retailers from around the country.

Read more details about the conference.

Read about Retail Pro

One Step on Inc. 5000 list

2007-09-05T10:54:00.000-07:00

One Step Retail Solutions ranks No. 2832 on the first-ever Inc. 5,000 list of fastest growing private companies in America. From that list, there are other lists ranking the top companies by industry, in each major metropolitan area, and by dollar amount. One Step comes up No. 75 in the Top 100 by Metro Region for Phoenix-Mesa-Scottsdale, AZ.

The Inc. 5,000 includes the Inc. 500 but now provides an all-inclusive list of companies that are driving the U.S. economy. The Inc. 5,000 project unleashed more than 70 researchers, reporters, editors and interns to identifyf and profile the 5,000 fastest growing companies in Entrepreneurial America.

According to Inc., "The companies listed are the elite--the mere silver of the seven million or so companies in the U.S. that have employees."

One Step attained a growth rate of 117.9% between 2003 and 2006, and attributes its success to its business model.

See press release ...

Retail Pro at Magic

2007-08-24T14:26:00.000-07:00

One Step Retail Solutions has a booth with Retail Technology Resources Group (RTRG) at Magic next week, and is available for live consultations on POS systems. You can also see a live demo of Retail Pro.

Come to booth #ME936

See you there!

Managing Vendors with Retail Pro

2007-08-23T16:49:00.000-07:00

A retailer can get stand alone applications to manage various aspects of their retail business, yet integrated systems, like Retail Pro, remain the preferred and more efficient retail system.

Vendor management is just one element of a retail business. In a recent article, "Vendor Management for Small Retailers," it talks about working with vendors and swift replenishment. This has to be tied in with managing your inventory. Essentially, they go hand-in-glove.

That is why it is important that your relationship with vendors is mutually profitable. Take a look at the article and see if it helps put things into perspective.

One Step Retail Solutions

The Ever-changing Consumer

2007-08-07T16:13:00.000-07:00

In a recent article "Connecting with a Fast-changing Consumer," it states:

In a wide-ranging keynote address at the recent IIR Shopper Insights conference, Marshal Cohen, chief industry analyst of The NPD Group, discussed the ever-changing consumer and how best to reach that moving target. What trends from those listed do you see as most important? What should marketers do - specifically - to capitalize on them?

Click here to read article.

Visit www.onestepretail.com for solutions.

Retail Pro POS software bundle

2007-07-27T14:45:00.000-07:00

Save a bundle on this POS software and hardware bundle!

Get the leading retail software RETAIL PRO SHOP EDITION installed on HP's top of the line POS hardware system for less than $5,000. Training included!

Register for a free online demo.

Review information about Retail Pro features.

For details about support options, send email or visit website for more information.

New Executives Named

2007-07-25T08:02:00.000-07:00

One Step Retail Solutions Names New Executives Following Highest Ever Sales in 2nd Quarter

OSRS, the long-time industry leaders in retail point of sale software technology, recently moved Dan Jablons to a new VP Business Development position and names Peter Pishko as VP Operations.

In the final runway of the 2nd quarter, OSRS stepped up to highest sales. Newly appointed as VP Operations at OSRS is Peter Pishko, former Director of Quality & Assurance. In his new position, he will be managing the company's national technical support center, retail consulting team and quality assurance division.

Former VP Operations Dan Jablons has been appointed as VP Business Development, and will be establishing strategic accounts.

With a strong sales team at OSRS and new strategies brewing in management, the year promises to wrap up with high numbers exceeding their target of $9 million in sales for the year.

Click here for full press release.

Best price on consumables

2007-07-11T09:51:00.000-07:00

One Step Retail Solutions partnered with System ID Warehouse to provide customers with the convenience of fulfilling their consumable supply needs at low prices. SIW is unmatched in this industry and has been providing consumable supplies for over 20 years.

For custom needs, contact SIW supply experts at (800) 660-8395. To order, visit: www.systemid.com/onestep.

Retail Pro Version 9 Ready

2007-06-25T09:37:00.000-07:00

The latest version of Retail Pro - Version 9 - is now ready for install. The new version advancements represent the most significant and monumental progression in this application suite in nearly two years.

Most notable is the new inclusion of the Oracle based platform, a superior architecture delivering maximum performance and scalability not before achievable. The relational database can scale virtually without limits as a business grows.

See full details and download brochure.

Big Lessons from Small Retailers

2007-06-06T08:49:00.000-07:00

In Hub magazine Tim Dorgan's article "Little Guy Lessons" brings to light some interesting ideas focused around small, innovatiave retail chains. Using strategies that shake up the mega-retailer, the smaller stores win over with unique customer service, creative merchandising, niche-marketing, and solid vendor relations.

Along this same line is Dan Jablon's article "Giant Tools for Would-be Giants" where he looked into the technology used by one particular large retail chain, 7-Eleven, and how smaller retailers could use technology to the same advantage that 7-Eleven does.

Today, word has it that Wal-Mart is slowing down and cutting back on new store openings to focus on "fixing problems at its current stores; in effect, stop competing with itself."

Maybe some of the big guys could learn from the small guys?

Retail Security Snapshots

2007-05-16T09:00:00.001-07:00

Inventory loss...

Statistics provided by The Retailers' Association indicate an annual inventory loss of over $37 billion nationwide for theft from employees, shoplifting, vendor fraud and administrative errors.

The National Retail Security Survey discovered that nearly half of all losses can be attributed to employee theft, adding up to billions of dollars annually.According to the Vice President of Loss Prevention for the National Retail Federation based in Washington, DC, Joseph LaRocca, it's estimated that only about one out of every eight or nine cases of scams and fraud are reported to the state's consumer protection office.

Free business analysis for retailers to learn how to improve security. Call 866-617-8181 or send email.

http://www.onestepdata.com/

Retail Teamwork in STORES mag

2007-05-03T14:25:00.000-07:00

In the May issue of STORES magazine is an article featuring Retail Teamwork, "Just Sports Scores Big with New Replenishment System."

"[Kevin] Palmer says that Just Sports, which replenishes its stores overnight from a warehouse no more than three hours away from any of the stores, urgently needed a computerized system that would let it keep track of the inventory at the warehouse... Just Sports is completely dependent on the warehouse to replenish what each store has sold the day before. In researching possible solutions, Palmer and Just Sports president Kelly Roberts found Clearwater, Fla.-based Retail Teamwork, which was developing an integrated, all-in-one solution for specialty retailers."

Retail Teamwork is the product of Michael Mauerer, the creator of Retail Pro and other retail software, and was released in January of this year. Mauerer developed the software with an SQL database and a live data stream, making it the first live system in its price range. This streaming technology allows retailers to get data in real time without polling, and enables them to respond quickly.

Read a full review of Retail Teamwork...

Visit www.onestepdata.com for details and information about the Retail Teamwork software solution.

Event for Retailers in San Francisco

2007-04-19T16:36:00.000-07:00

Microsoft and One Step Data present ...

“A Day in the LIfe of a Retailer
and the problems they face”

A fun and interactive day addressing situations and challenges that retailers deal with. FREE!

May 22, 2007
2 sessions:10:00 am - 12:00 pm
1:00 pm - 3:00 pm

at Microsoft Corp
The Landmark at One Market, Ste. 200
San Francisco, CA 94105

Register to attend this informative and fun event today!http://www.onestepdata.com/ms-event52207

For more information, call (866) 617-8181. Ext. 4125

Download free report "5 Biggest Challenges Retalers Face Today"http://www.onestepdata.com/email/free-report.php

Training Seminar

2007-04-05T13:31:00.000-07:00

Release the profit potential of Retail Pro with a mastery of reporting techniques, strategies, and execution!

Retail Pro Reports Seminar
April 25th, 8:00am - 5:00pmat Ingram Micro Centerin Santa Ana, CA. Speaker: Dan Jablons

What percentage of Retail Pro's capabilities are you using right now, today, in your business to increase your sales and profits?

Accurate reports that give detailed information about your business will increase your sales, your profits, and your bottom line; but only if you know how to use them. Right now the data to increase your sales, to exceed your profit forecasts and to reach your growth goals is in Retail Pro waiting for you to pull it out and use it!

From Inventory Control to Loss Prevention to Merchandising in your stores, accurate reporting is vital to maximizing your sales and profits. You can get this information from Retail Pro; if you first know how to get it and then how to use it correctly.

This is an amazing opportunity to be in a very intimate setting and get the personal training, knowledge, and expertise of not just one of our amazing Systems Consultants; but of Dan Jablons, Vice President of Operations for One Step Data. You will be able to take what you learn at this event, understand how to apply it to your business, and immediately reap the rewards.

Limited seating! Register to attend this highly informative seminar today! Early-bird registration is $495 for the first person per company, $295 for additional person in company by April 13th; $695 after April 13th, $495 for additional person in company.

Click here to register.
Read full details of this seminar! Click here.

Loss Prevention Conference

2007-03-01T14:44:00.000-08:00

Loss Prevention Auditing & Safety is the premier retail loss prevention conference in the industry. Some of the key topics include:

Organized Retail Crime
The Evolution of Loss Prevention
Building Partnerships within an Organization
Shortage Analytics

There are more than 35 educational sessions and these are just a few. To find out more about the entire program with session descriptions, visit their website www.retail-leaders.org.

To find out about how our retail consultants can help you with loss prevention, email One Step Data or visit website www.onestepdata.com

New Point of Sale Requirements

2007-02-26T08:29:00.000-08:00

Here is some information that retailers need to be aware of, if you're not already:

Effective January 1, 2007, a State law requires operators of electronic point-of-sale systems (i.e., "scanners") to ensure that the price of each item paid by any consumer be conspicuously displayed to the consumer at the time the system interprets the price. These requirements were established in Assembly Bill (AB) 2732 with amendments in AB 2285.

If your customers can currently read the price of each item and all required information is visibly displayed, no further action is needed. If price and discount information is only visible to the sales clerk, you will need to install equipment providing a display to the customer.

For more information, call One Step Data at (800) 266-1328 or email us.

Gift Cards Are Changing Retail

2007-02-23T16:49:00.000-08:00

In a NRF news release...

Consumers put their gift cards to good use in January, snapping up discounted winter apparel and new spring merchandise at clothing stores, department stores, and personal care stores. According to the National Retail Federation (NRF), retail industry sales for January (which exclude automobiles, gas stations, and restaurants) rose 5.3 percent unadjusted over last year and 0.7 percent seasonally adjusted from December.

January retail sales released today by the U.S. Commerce Department show that total retail sales (which include non-general merchandise categories such as autos, gasoline stations and restaurants) were unchanged from December and increased 4.3 percent unadjusted year-over-year. December industry sales were revised upward from 0.9 percent seasonally adjusted to 1.2 percent seasonally adjusted from the previous month.

“Shoppers hit the stores in January to redeem holiday gift cards from a wide variety of retailers,” said NRF Chief Economist Rosalind Wells. “Though January is historically the slowest sales month for retailers, gift cards are changing the game by bringing a much-needed boost to stores.”

Eager consumers hit apparel and personal care stores last month to stock up on discounted merchandise with gift cards in hand. Clothing and clothing accessories stores saw sales increase 6.0 percent unadjusted over last year and 1.0 percent adjusted from December. Health and personal care stores, which showed the strongest year-over-year gains, increased 10.4 percent unadjusted year-over-year and 0.6 percent adjusted month-to-month.

Electronics and appliance stores are still experiencing sales increases largely due to the popularity of such items as high definition televisions, video game systems and MP3 players. Unadjusted year-over-year sales in electronics and appliance stores increased 5.1 percent and slightly decreased 1.2 percent from last month.

NRF continues to expect 2007 sales to increase 4.8% over 2006.

Payment Security

2007-02-22T13:06:00.000-08:00

In a recent issue of Business Solutions Magazine, senior editor Dan Schell talks about the need for payment security knowledge. He states that retailers who accept credit card payments need to understand the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) which he says,"outlines what merchants must do regarding the security of credit card data."

Retailers can learn about this standard at www.pcisecuritystandards.org.

Schell also explains that thieves are targeting smaller retailers to get credit card information. Member of the RSPA (Retail Solutions Providers Association) Brad Holaway says, "Some merchants don't even know they are at risk...But if a credit card security breech is traced back to a merchant, the fines could potentially exceed $500,000. And that's just the cost of the fine."

Consultants at One Step Data provide free Business Analysis and can help a retailer prevent possible future breeches. Contact a representative if you would like to speak with someone about your payment security or point of sale technology.

Tax Break on POS Software & Equipment

2007-02-20T08:09:00.000-08:00

A new tax law makes it easier for retailers to upgrade to a new retail management system. For businesses, under the new Tax Increase Prevention & Reconciliation Act of 2005, the most lucrative piece of the law is a huge increase in the Section 179 first-year depreciation allowance for equipment to $112,000 as of January 1, 2007. It was originally $25,000. Under this tax break, businesses can immediately deduct 100 percent of the cost of most new and used business personal property, including computer software.

Contact an OSD Sales Consultant to take advantage of this tax incentive and achieve maximum tax benefits. The consultant can also give you a free retail business analysis to determine your technology needs. Email clientrelatations@onestepdata.com.

www.onestepdata.com

Free Retail Business Analysis

2007-02-15T14:54:00.000-08:00

Retail experts at One Step Retail Solutions know thata retailers not only need a flexible retail solution, but a reliable technology partner consisting of knowledgeable consultants and support staff. Being a company thata knows retail, they know the value and importance of systems that meet the changing needs of retailers.

Retailers can get a free Retail Business Analysis with one of One Step Retail Solutions' expert retail consultants and determine the best solution to meet their needs.

Call toll-free at (800) 266-1328 to arrange your free Retail Business Analysis. You can also contact us by email.

5 Biggest Challenges Facing Retailers Today

2007-02-15T14:43:00.000-08:00

A study by American Business Research Company was done to identify the biggest challenges facing retailers today, and some valuable information for retailers were discovered. From this, a special report was put together that reveals the five biggest challenges andhow retailers can overcome them.

Download free report.