Marc Willson, a retail industry consultant, looked around the highway market, fine For You Naturally, at the large selection of organic coffees and teas, herbs and soaps and much more.Owner Delores Thompson showed Willson information of her frequent customer program and Willson nodded in agreement.
"It costs 10 times less money to keep a shopper with you than to go out and find another one," Willson said.
Good For You Naturally, which opened in March near Kool Ford, was one of several stops last week by Willson, who joined the Virginia Small Business Development Centers in 2009 after a long career in retail management.
With George Bryan, the SBDC's locally-based business analyst leading the tour, Willson gave advice and tips at the Blue Crow Antique Mall, Bay Creek, the Western Auto store in Exmore and others during a two-day event.
Willson has completed talks on the Eastern Shore several times, including on how local merchants should prepare to compete with a new Walmart Supercenter.
He was impressed at Good For You Naturally, where the store's inside was inviting and bright.
"Her overall business model also concept is sound," Willson said.
Outside, Good For You Naturally offers trolley rides on selected days and is making a walking labyrinth. The large store offers a wealth of gift ideas.
Willson looked around and made recommendations on lighting, product displays and promoting products.
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