Retail sales is the lifeline of small specialty retail stores. These business owners sell goods like art supplies, paper goods, collectors’ items, specialty clothing, religious merchandise and other specialized goods.

More than 135,800 small special retail stores employ more than 231,400 workers. Their sales are in excess of $42 billion. Even with all this success, they face stiff competition from department stores and online retailers. What sets these entrepreneurs apart from the competition is their remarkable level of personal service and the passionate care they have for their business.

One sure way a retailer can  increase sales is to display their merchandise in inviting and organized displays. Bob Phibbs details seven ways a retailer can leverage their display area to increase sales.

7 Ways To Transform Retail Store Displays Into Sales

There are a lot of ways your retail store displays can be your silent salesperson. The trick is to make sure your displays include some of the basics… Read more…

To sum up Mr. Phibbs’ advice:

1. Change your displays monthly
2. Put your newest, fanciest, most expensive items prominently on your floor
3. Don’t build a monochromatic display
4. Don’t put a “Do Not Touch” sign
5. Try using a prop ever so often
6. Use lighting from above to highlight your display
7. Don’t forget to tag your merchandise