Today's guest post is from Poornima Apte, Editor-in-Chief of GIFT SHOP Magazine and Specialty Retail Report.

The winter markets are all set to ring in another year of exciting product launches and brisk business. Here is a sneak peek at some of the exciting finds you can expect at the winter 2012 edition of Toy Fair.

HABA
habausa.com

Caterpillar Rina Pull Toy
This colorful pull toy always makes a happy face and will follow baby wherever s/he wanders. Caterpillar wiggles her whole body when pulled. Made from beech wood, the body of this toy measures 12 inches long.
Ages 12 months +

Discovery Puzzle on the Farm
Ideal for a toddler’s first puzzle, four wooden pieces (pig, cow, horse & farmer) can pop in and out of the farm scene. The motifs on the puzzle’s edge are clues for images repeated in the big puzzle. Parents can read aloud the enclosed story as little eyes try to find the farm features.

Beetle Karo Clutching Toy
Grownups can’t help saying ahhhh when they hold this 5½-inch clutch toy packed with sweet surprises. In addition to the soft pastel colors, this little personality has two petal rings that can be moved up, down and away. Listen for the rustling sound and watch baby’s eyes light up! The plush feel comes from a mix of velour and cotton/polyester.
$8.99 • Ages 6 months+

Beetle Kai Clutching Toy
This little beetle is full of delights from his floppy antennae to his rustling ring of petals that slide up, down and off. Give this 6-½ inch guy a shake and hear a little bell. His soft feel comes from a mix of velour and cotton/polyester.
$8.99 • Ages 6 months+

Salad Bowl in Summer Charm
Teddy can get a full day’s serving of vegetables in this tasty bowl of salad ingredients. The shatterproof salad bowl, made of melamine, matches the Summer Charm tableware set. 5 felt veggies make up this tasty appetizer – dark green olive slices, pale green salad leaves, brown mushroom slices, white onion rings and red tomato slices.
$13.49 • Ages 3+

Gary Gouda
Here’s a game of cat and mouse that goes 3D with a fresh and sophisticated game frame. As Gary the Mouse munches his way through the house and gets plumper with every bite, he’s having trouble fitting through the mouse holes. Only the player who recalls the sizes of the various holes faster than Kiki the Cat can make it to the target unscathed. The game features adjustable mouse holes and encourages good memory skills. Fun for the whole family, up to 4 can play at a time.
$31.49 • Ages 4+

Moover Baby Truck
This first toy on wheels is designed for children as young as 12 months, remaining friendly through the preschool years. It appeals to both boys and girls –an obvious choice as the child's first “ride-on” toy. Kids love to practice simple assembling and construction skills as both the truck body and the crane can be removed. In the driver's cab thereis room for a teddy bear or a doll and other toys can be placed in the “trunk.” It’s a clever mixture of play and learning. Choose red with yellow wheels or natural with red wheels.
$85.49 • Ages 12 months+

Today's guest post is from Poornima Apte, Editor-in-Chief of GIFT SHOP Magazine and Specialty Retail Report.

The winter markets are all set to ring in another year of exciting product launches and brisk business. Here is a sneak peek at some of the exciting finds you can expect at the winter 2012 edition of Toy Fair.

Green Toys Inc.
415.839.9971 • greentoys.com

Green Toys Salad Set
Watch healthy eating habits sprout with the fresh and fun Green Toys™ Salad Set! Toss up lettuce and veggies and top with a dash of dressing or salt & pepper for the greenest salad around. In this 20-piece stackable set, each realistic part is made in the USA from food-safe, 100% recycled plastic milk containers that save energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Sized for Green Toys kitchen sets and interchangeable with other Green Toys play food products, the Salad Set includes a serving bowl, salad plate, 2 serving utensils, 3 lettuce leaves, 3 sets of cucumbers, 2 tomatoes, 2 red peppers, onions, mushrooms, and fold-your-own oil & vinegar and salt & pepper. No BPA, phthalates, PVC or external coatings. Meets FDA food contact standards. Dishwasher Safe.
For ages 2 +

Green Toys Build-A-Bouquet
With the Green Toys™ Build-a-Bouquet, budding florists can create countless floral arrangements while saving energy and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Made in the USA from 100% recycled plastic milk jugs, this brightly colored 44-piece set includes 4 bases, 16 stem and leaf pieces, and 24 flower pieces. The vibrant lilies, petunias, and daisies stack interchangeably in the assorted stems for limitless fun that blossoms in all seasons. It’s no secret that this garden is as safe as it is fun, with no BPA, phthalates, PVC or external coatings. Packaged using recycled and recyclable materials and printed with soy inks.
For ages 2 +

Green Toys Mini Vehicles – 4 Pack
City streets, busy highways, country roads. Whether it’s the Ambulance, Police Car, Taxi, or Red Fastback, the Green Toys™ Mini Vehicles are sure to stop traffic wherever little imaginations venture. These planet-pleasing automobiles are made in the USA from 100% recycled plastic milk jugs, saving energy and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Each pint-sized car sports its own unique details, while the whole fleet features a super-eco design with no metal axles or external coatings. No BPA, phthalates or PVC. Packaged with recycled and recyclable materials and printed with soy inks.
Dimensions: 6"L x 3-1/2"W

For ages 1 +

Green Toys Tool Set – Pink or Blue
No job is too big for the world's most environmentally friendly tool kit! This awesome 15-piece set includes a tool box, Phillips screwdriver, flat screwdriver, hammer, saw, wrench, pliers, 2 two-hole connectors, 2 nails, 2 bolts, and 2 nuts. The Green Toys™ Tool Kit turns work into Good Green Fun™!
For ages 2 +

Green Toys Sand Kit – Blue or Pink
Build a castle. Dig for buried treasures. No matter how ambitious the project, the world's most eco-groovy sand play set always leaves a light footprint. Like all Green Toys™ products, our Sand Play Set is made from advanced environmentally friendly materials, helping to reduce fossil fuel use and C02 emissions, all in the name of Good Green Fun™!
For ages 18 months +
4 Pieces, including: Bucket, Shovel, Rake, Sand Castle Mold

Green Toys Mini Fastbacks – 4 Pack
Nothing gets the green light from Planet Earth like the Mini Fastbacks from Green Toys Inc. Made in the USA from 100% recycled plastic milk containers that save energy and reduce greenhouse gasses, these four palm-sized cars are perfect for little hands ready to explore and protect their world. The red, blue, green, and yellow two-door coupes are high-design and low-emission, with a classic sloping roofline, racing stripes, and no metal axles. No BPA, phthalates, PVC or external coatings. Packaged with recycled and recyclable materials and printed with soy inks.
Dimensions: 6"L x 3-1/2"W

For ages 1 +

Today's guest post is from Poornima Apte, Editor-in-Chief of GIFT SHOP Magazine and Specialty Retail Report.

The winter markets are all set to ring in another year of exciting product launches and brisk business. Here's a final peek at more of the exciting finds you can expect this winter.

Vance Kitira
800.646.6360 • vancekitira.com

Bountiful Nature
Hand-poured paraffin wax in frosted glass is delicately scented with the fragrance of jasmine. Package sketches reflect the fresh, vibrant fragrance inside. 3 x 3.5”, 7 oz.  Burn time – 30 hrs.

Basket of Terrapot Votives
One of our best-selling items now comes in a splash of color in a white wire basket. Just in time for warmer weather, these fun little votive pots are definitely “pretty in pink”.  Scatter them around the table to brighten any setting.  They make perfect hostess gifts – and with just a marker, write a message, greeting or add a name for use as a place card. These sweet little candles will be a bright spot at any event. Unscented, set of 10. Burn time – 5 hrs. each
 
Iris Apron
Gardening, cooking or crafting, this soft canvas apron keeps you in style.  Individually hand-painted with a stunning Iris on bleached white canvas.  Deep center pocket shaped like a planter. Slips over the head and ties around the waist.  One size.

Kevin O'Brien Studio
215.923.6378 • kevinobrienstudio.com

New York Bryant Park printed pillow
Kevin's colorful rendition of New York's Bryant Park adds an artistic flare to any room. Spice up your space by flipping it over to reveal the beautiful painting of the New York skyline on the back; zip closure; feather/down insert included

Opera printed pillow
Original detailed drawing of the New York Opera comes alive with touches of bright color, featured on the reserve side is a whimsical sketch of musicians; zip closure; feather/down insert included

Rome Piazza printed pillow
Kevin's colorful sketch of the famous Piazza in Rome adds a splash of bright spring hues to any couch. This pillow brings that old world feel with a modern twist; velvet cording; zip closure; feather/down insert included

Paris Cafe printed pillow
This pillow features a beautiful art piece that places you in a Parisian cafe, looking out onto the bustling city streets, bringing an architectural feel to your space. Also features velvet striping on the reverse side to add a soft feel; velvet cording; zip closure; feather/down insert included

Wooster & Prince
800.638.9622 • woosterandprince.com

Wooster & Prince continues to expand its line of beautiful gift items with the introduction of eye-catching Cuff Bracelets. Gold-plated with a luxe look and weight, these cuff bracelets measure 2 3/8”w x 1 3/8” h. 

Today's guest post is from Poornima Apte, Editor-in-Chief of GIFT SHOP Magazine and Specialty Retail Report.

The winter markets are all set to ring in another year of exciting product launches and brisk business. Here's a sneak peek at more of the exciting finds you can expect this winter.

The WillowBrook Company
888.877.3132 • freshscents.com
Markets Attending: Atlanta, Dallas World Trade Center
 
The WillowBrook Company unveils Summer Romance, Raspberry and Vanilla Glow for Spring 2012. Summer Romance has notes of passion fruit intermingling with delicate peony blossoms, pine and aromatic notes finished with a creamy vanilla and orchid base. Raspberry has notes of raspberries, orange and apple layered over nose of soft rose, green bouquet and ylang rounded out on a base of milky vanilla. Vanilla Glow has vanilla blossoms and glowing amber combining with the sweet aroma of sugary vanilla and Tonka, unfolding into the intense warmth of sandalwood and musk. These fragrances are available in Fresh Scents envelopes and sachets.

Midwest-CBK
800.394.4225 • mwcbk.com

The Marrakesh Fall Collection for 2012 has four Marrakesh-inspired fragrances. From the authentic scent of an alluring Spice Market to the refreshing fragrance of Marrakesh Mint Tea, this destination collection will spark a desire to see the world. Available for delivery August 1, Marrakesh collection fragrances include:
Spice Market: Exotic elegance emerges with spicy notes of cardamom, nutmeg and cinnamon, set against the subtlety and warmth of sandalwood. White cedarwood and creamy vanilla combined with amber and musk for a smooth finish.

Golden Sahara: Shaved nutmeg and lemon zest are infused with clove, lavender and cinnamon, creating a spicy aromatic essence. Golden cedar and oak moss are wrapped in vanilla incense, creating a rich appeal.
Marrakesh Mint Tea: Chamomile and mint leaves steep in a steaming blend of white tea and sweet golden honey, while musk and cedar finish this soothing fragrance.

Mosaic Fountain: An elegant scent of white cedarwood, cardamom and amber are inspired by the beauty of Morocco.

Manual Woodworkers & Weavers
800.542.3139 • manualww.com

Beautify! Manual is expanding its line of Soft Touch Manicure Sets and Make-Up/Manicure sets with animal print styles and more. Plus, Manual is introducing a new line of artisan style jewelry. The jewelry line includes necklaces, bracelets and rings.

Walk on the wild side! Manual is introducing a new line of trendsetting studded leatherette belts. The belts feature unique textures, beads, studs and ornate buckles. The styling goes from SouthWest, to Western to Gothic.

Artist Susan Winget has imbued an ethereal quality to Manual's new collection aptly named "Nature's Sketchbook". She has created engaging pieces using a mix of mediums – color pencils & watercolors. Her illustrated birds and insects contrasted with the subdued surroundings create an unexpected and enthralling vibrancy. "Nature's Sketches" is a new group of Climaweave™ pillows, placemats and runners plus the collection includes a tapestry woven throw. 

Four season living, inside and out!  Manual is introducing more designs to the highly successful Climaweave™ indoor/outdoor collection. Shown are two of the many new additions to the line, Pinwheel Flowers and Butterfly Kaleidoscope, both by artist Tim Coffey. They are 20" x 20".

Great look for the lodge!  Manual is introducing a new lodge collection, Animal Instincts, that includes a throw, runner, placemats and mini plates, plus two Climaweave™ indoor/outdoor pillows.

Isabella's Journey™ Jewelry. Shown here is a set of 12 rings that come in a candy box display. Each ring is unique in its setting and stone.

Today's guest post is from Poornima Apte, Editor-in-Chief of GIFT SHOP Magazine and Specialty Retail Report.

The winter markets are all set to ring in another year of exciting product launches and brisk business. Here's a sneak peek at more of the exciting finds you can expect this winter.

Bridgewater Candle Company
877.843.2743 • bridgewatercandles.com
Markets Attending: Atlanta Showroom, Greenleaf Building 2, Dallas Showroom, World Trade Center
 
Bridgewater Candle’s new fragrances include Spring Dress and Sweet Summer Tea. Spring Dress has silky blossoms of peony and magnolia blending with sparkling layers of green and citrus finished with a dash of warm mahogany and golden amber. Sweet Summer Tea features ripened strawberries and lemon zest drenched in sweet iced tea layered over a blanket of lily blossoms and smooth tobacco. Fragrances available in small jar candles, large jar candles, sachets, reed diffusers, tealights, votives, wax potpourri wafers and fragrance oils.

Badash Crystal
631.242.9101 • badashcrystal.com
Markets attending: Atlanta, Dallas, Chicago Merchandise Mart, Columbus Market Place, Minneapolis Gift Mart, New York

New product introductions include Monaco, Samantha and Champion bowls; and Monterrey and Firestorm vases. Available in a variety of colors and sizes.

8 Petals
866.526.7226 • 8petals.com
Markets attending: Atlanta, Dallas, World Trade Center
 
New product introductions include Kaleidoscope which are fused glass accessories featuring funky patterns and bold colors against interchangeable leather cuffs. Orbit featuring concentric circular patterns and Velveteen featuring velvet as a backdrop for an overlay of antique silver topped with fused glass ornament, will also be shown.

Today's guest post is from Poornima Apte, Editor-in-Chief of GIFT SHOP Magazine and Specialty Retail Report.

The winter markets are all set to ring in another year of exciting product launches and brisk business. Over the next few days I'm going to give you a sneak peek at some of the exciting finds you can expect this winter.

Calypso Studios
866.897.9648 • www.calypsostudiosinc.com
Markets attending: Philadelphia, Atlanta, Seattle, Los Angeles, Dallas, Minneapolis, Chicago, Boston, Denver, Michigan

Comforting Clay Combo Display
128 piece assortment includes Comforting Clay Hearts and Crosses in pocket styles, clip styles, and bookmarks. Free acrylic display included.

Bendi-Bandz
With dozens of ways to wear, Bendi-Bandz combine printed fabric and wire to create a secure hairpiece, scarf, or bracelet. (14 prints available)

Greenleaf
877.GREENLEAF • www.greenleafgifts.com
Greenleaf unveils two new fragrances, Island Sunset and Radiant Waters in Home Fragrance Collection. Island Sunset contains hints of pear, peach, coconut, banana and apple. Radiant Waters fuses cool spearmint and eucalyptus, which blends into a transparent floral. A lingering mist of woody tonka rounds out the fragrance with a trace of warmth. Products available include: Signature Candle, Candle Cube Votive, Room Spray, Aroma Décor Diffuser Oil, Reed Diffuser Oil, Large Sachet, Slim Sachet, Small Sachet, Home Fragrance Oil, Potpourri Large Bag and Potpourri Small Bag.

Votivo
877.VOTIVO • www.votivo.com
Markets Attending: Atlanta, Dallas, New York International Gift Fair, Ex*tracts, Las Vegas Magic Show

Votivo’s new fragrances include Pink Mimosa and Breath of Lavender. Pink Mimosa includes base notes of vanilla rum, sandalwood and musk. Breath of Lavender includes notes of lavender, amber and musk. Fragrances available as aromatic collection candles, reed diffuser, fragrance mist and travel tins.
 

Recently I received an interesting email from a flower shop named Rose Red & Lavender in Brooklyn, NY, that included a 20 percent off coupon which uses both a link and a QR code to whisk readers to the shop’s website. I love the simplicity of this email campaign, as well as the use of new technology that provides the reader multiple ways to take advantage of the coupon.

This retailer used their email service provider, Mail Chimp, to generate the QR code used in their email. Your email service provider may have a similar tool. However, there are also multiple, free QR code generators (like Kaywa).

We’re now down to the wire for this holiday shopping season. You have just a few remaining days to ring in as many sales and help as many holiday shoppers as possible. How are your sales looking for the season?

If you’d like to kick it up a notch here are a few tips you can implement by the time you open up tomorrow morning.

Offer free shipping
Whether you sell online or not, anything you can do to create greater convenience for your customers, the better. Offering free shipping is a great promotion to not only draw customers to shop with you, but also an opportunity to offer great customer service that will have customers returning to your store after the holiday season is over.

Events
Host a few special shopping events, like a men’s shopping night, a “We Love Procrastinators Day,” or a kids shopping event. If you don’t already offer gift wrapping, offer it for free at your special events. Offer free hot chocolate and cookies to give your events a festive flair.

Sampling
If you sell anything that can be sampled, try sampling a different item each day and promoting that you are offering free samples.

Price themed displays
Create a few tables or display areas in your store to arrange various gifts in a certain price range. Last-minute shoppers love this kind of convenience and helping them stay within their budget may actually spur them to spend more on other impulse items, which usually carry a larger sales margin for you.

Email marketing
Any last-minute promotions such as those listed above are all great reasons to send out an email blast—and don’t be shy about sending them out frequently (even once a day).

As a follow up to a recent post about creating great interview questions during the hiring process, here are some great behavioral questions I encourage you to use for inspiration.

I’ve always been a proponent of behavioral interview questions because they allow to get a peek into how a candidate has conducted themselves in the past, rather than relying on what they say they would do in the future (or in a hypothetical situation). These five questions will help you find a candidate with the skills and traits you’re seeking.

1. Tell me about a difficult customer service situation you experienced. How did you handle it? What did you do right and/or wrong? How has that experienced changed how you deal with customers today?
2. How to you personally measure job satisfaction/success? How do you think this position will measure up?
3. Give an example of a difficult situation with a fellow employee and how you handled it.
4. We believe that creating and maintaining strong customer relationships are critical to making sales and growing our business. Can you give me an example of how you create strong customer relationships?
5. Tell me about the best boss you’ve ever worked for, what you learned from them and how you apply those lessons today.

If you have done your homework before the interview and created a thorough list of skills and traits you’re seeking, you can score each answer based on whether the candidate displayed those traits in how he or she handled previous situations.

The other day I read a report on the CNBC website that retailers are offering more and better holiday promotions this season. How have your holiday promotions been this year? Are they bigger and better than past seasons?

This is what we've seen major retailers doing this year to boost holiday sales…

Loyalty rewards Toys 'R Us is offering a 10 percent reward for those that are members of its loyalty program and make purchases between October 30 and December 24. Also, customers that spend more than $200 during the holiday season will receive $100 off purchases in the coming year.

Price guarantees Walmart (among other retailers) has holiday-season-only price guarantees. Walmart’s program awards customers with gift cards if they find the items they purchase during the holiday season cheaper at competing stores.

Layaway programs were also very popular promotions this year for many major retailers and are a great way to attract early season shoppers.

Free shipping is another popular promotion this year for online and brick-and-mortar retailers. In fact, 9 in 10 retailers surveyed by Shop.org say they are offering free shipping. Plus, the large majority began their free shipping promotion earlier this year than in past years.

I hope your holiday promotions keep you competitive this year!