Why would a shop that has been open for over a decade, has loyal customers, strong brands, and steady traffic have stalled growth or even a decline in business?
In this second installment of the Retail Mystery series, I share the fictional case of a home decor shop owner who feels stuck after 13 years in business. Profits are still coming in, but not at the level they once did. The owner points to the economy, weather, rising wages, and shifting customer habits. All valid concerns. But when the deeper investigation begins, a different pattern starts to emerge.
