JEM Newsletter - March 2014

So the hugely advertised and long anticipated Retail Business Technology Expo (RBTE) 2014 held at Earl's Court on the 11th and 12th March is now over. JEM were there on stand 492 and we met with some great people who had interesting and sometimes unique retail businesses. The technology suppliers were also there in force with new and innovative offerings especially in the personalised shopping arena.

The website for the RBTE reports that this was the most successful event to date with record visitor numbers and a wide range of technology to explore. All visitors to the JEM stand were entered into a prize draw for the fabulous Stella and Dot necklace and the lucky winner is Aine Beatty - congratulations Aine!

Amongst the many exhibitors JEM stood out as being the only specialist consultancy. This was a great opportunity as we were able to give independent advice to retailers with a very diverse range of business requirements, as well as talk to suppliers about the strength of their products and the types of retail operation they are targeting. This really supported our agnostic approach to suppliers as it puts us in an ideal position to identify the best solution for each retailer's unique requirements.

Jane gets on her bike!

One such business was a London based bicycle retailer with a genuine passion for their product. Having recently expanded their already successful operation and moved to new premises this retailer is seeking a robust, functionally rich store system to manage their operation today and for the future. A key focus is on delivering a very personal CRM experience consistent with their brand identity.

Advice from Erica that is fit for purpose!

Amongst the more unusual conversations was a retail proposition demanding surgical precision! Started by a leading orthopaedic consultant with a flair for the entrepreneurial this unique business aims to capitalise on the potential for growth in the health sector created by the privatisation of the NHS and the awarding of contracts to independent providers. The result is a combination of retail space with treatment rooms and an exercise studio.

JEM launch start-up support.

Following the amount of interest at the RBTE from both start-up operations as well as those experiencing growing pains, JEM have decided to add to our services by providing consultancy aimed specifically at these requirements. Keep an eye on our website www.jemconsultants.co.uk for more information.

Written by Jane Fransen-Hale: Director JEM Retail Consultants