Page 22 - HC B2B Spring 2020
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RETAIL – WHAT’S IN “STORE” FOR THE FUTURE?
         Your local stores (big and small) are the ones that support the community.
While I don’t claim to be an expert in the realm of retail, I am an avid consumer and in my nearly 30 years of running chambers of commerce (Helena, and
Dillon, prior), I have observed a lot of change.
I’m going to make some predictions – no science behind them, however this
is my take on the direction of retail – especially for Montana.
1. When life slowed down during the pandemic and people were working from home and staying home – the enjoyment of shopping in a store (for needs and for social engagement) became something they looked forward to and treasured more than ever in recent years. It also had people revisiting making things from scratch, enjoying hobbies and crafts, working to improve their homes, yards, and more. I predict (at least for the near future) that people will continue to find value in these activities and lifestyles.
2. Amazon has changed retail forever.
With prime shipping, items arrive very quickly and they have access to the largest selection and variety of nearly any type of goods. While the delivery time lengthened during the shutdown, they still delivered. Some people will forever be addicted to Amazon shopping.
3. Small stores, especially clothing stores, are making a comeback. With large chain stores like Macy’s closing, locals realize that if they need something and need it quickly, their best bet is to shop at local stores who care if they come in and will back up their merchandise. I personally believe that with larger retail clothing closing across the nation, we may see a return to “hometown” America. (Growing up, we shopped mostly in our closest town, only going to urban centers once
in a while...this could be our future.) Remember – your local stores (big and small) are the ones that support the
community for fundraisers, sports, events, and sponsorship...not Amazon.
4. We will always need stores like Target and WalMart for immediate needs, competitive prices, and a full selection of home goods. (The pandemic proved their importance to us.) They have quickly adapted to change with online shopping w/pickup and potentially even home delivery. We found out during the shelter in place, that you can order online and easily pickup without even going into the store (this is especially great for seniors or parents with small children).
5. People have a restored sense of experience and they value shopping opportunities to see, feel, and observe their purchases – especially furniture, appliances, and again, clothing. The frustration of receiving larger items shipped to your home that are sub- quality, the wrong size or color, or unexpected problems will drive people to look at their hometown stores to avoid these problematic situations and the returning of large items challenges.
Hopefully, the coming and current changes
to shopping habits and lifestyle changes
will encourage a much more cohesive
and supportive community that wants to maintain great local options in our retail stores. It is a two-way street - if you want the stores to support Helena and our wonderful community, you will have to make the effort to support them. Recently the Chamber participated in a $50 by 5 Challenge (with Montana Radio Co.) and it made a significant point. For a $50 expenditure locally in a store by half of the area citizens – the impact was over 1 1⁄2 million dollars (in a short period of time). Think about your monthly expenditures and the impact it can make on our local economy if you keep the biggest portion
of your expenditures for retail items, food, recreation, and more...spent right here at home. We are Helena Strong! •
      22 Business to Business Connection | SPRING 2020















































































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