Retailers, now that you’ve survived the holidays, it’s time to start prepping for the year ahead. The new year is an exciting time for retailers as it represents an occasion to look back on the accomplishments of the previous year and plan for another successful one! Here’s a quick checklist for retailers to prepare for the upcoming year:

Reflect on the Past Year

Take some time to reflect on the retail goals you set for your business this past year. Celebrate your successes and think about any failures you experienced. The best way to move forward is to think about your starting point. Ask yourself:

• Which goals did you accomplish?
• How did your strategies work for you?
• What obstacles did you run into and how did you overcome them?

Create Goals and a Strategy for the New Year

Each retail location will have a different vision for the new year based on its performance over the last one. Once you’ve reflected and analyzed your data from the previous year, use this information to set new goals and create strategies to achieve them. For example, if one of your goals is to cut costs, think about the ways you can increase sustainability and efficiency. Whatever your retail goals are for the new year, make it a part of your vision for your business and commit to it!

Re-evaluate Inventory

After a busy holiday season is a good time to re-evaluate your inventory records. Make sure they’re accurate, and address any discrepancies if they arise. If you have a product that isn’t selling well, consider running a special or selling it at a discount. Leaving old, underperforming products in your inventory can hinder your ability to meet the new goals you’ve set for yourself. You want to go into the new year with efficiency and organization in mind. 

Get Your Facility Clean and Organized

A clean and organized facility is an efficient one. To improve your business operations, make sure you have all the cleaning supplies and equipment you need to keep your facility in good health. This is also a good time to stock up on other business supplies and dispose of any old or non-functioning equipment. Freshen up your storefront to welcome new and existing customers!

Motivate the Team

The holidays can be an exhausting time for retail employees. Take some time to show them your appreciation for all their hard work. Have a team meeting where you discuss the achievements and success your team contributed to, and share how you plan to improve for the future. Invigorate and excite them to help you achieve these retail goals for the upcoming year! 

Whatever your retail goals are for the new year, Pollock Orora is here to help you achieve them. With comprehensive retail solutions, commercial cleaning supplies and equipment, packaging solutions, inventory management systems, sustainable programs, and more, Pollock Orora is prepared to help you SOLVE your business goals for the upcoming year!