INDUSTRY SPOTLIGHT
Joan Werner
Assistant manager
The Eagles Mere Museum Shop
Eagles Mere, Pa.
Q: What makes your store unique?
A: It's the only museum and shop operated by a town borough in the state of Pennsylvania. We are one of the state's smallest national historic museum and have a history dating back to the late 1700s. Our general population year round is 150 people, but during the summer season, which lasts about eight weeks, we can reach 1,800 people in one weekend. While the museum and shop are open year round, we're open only on weekends during the off-season.
Q: What is your retail background?
A: I have an art education background and previous experience in store display.
Q: What is the most popular product you sell?
A: The most popular products we sell are T-shirts that have an Eagles Mere logo and name-dropped holiday ornaments with lake related designs.
Q: What trade shows do you attend?
A: We attend two shows per year one in Philadelphia during the summer and the other in Ocean City, Md.
Q: What is your favorite part about working in this industry?
A: Meeting new people who have a "history" related to Eagles Mere. Everyone who goes through our free admission museum needs to pass through our museum shop, which was once the old general store. When they leave, many people often have an Eagles Mere memory to share.
Q: What advice do you have for other retailers?
A: We believe in "Made in the U.S.A.," so make sure you check out local vendors first for products in your shop. They know and understand your concerns and often will accommodate your special needs regarding quantity, delivery and what sells locally. Plus, they will often do the research if you are looking for new items that might be found closer to home. The second piece of advice is to have some items of interest for all ages priced less than $10. |