In case you hadn’t noticed, people are still spending money. Although things are a bit tighter than they used to be, the way the media often portray our current economic situation might have us believing otherwise. But guess what? There are still people taking trips, restaurants serving food and, the last time I checked, people are still wearing clothes and driving cars.

It’s a survival of the financially fittest, in that those retail establishments hanging on and staying afloat have adapted to the situation and made adjustments when necessary.

Think about what we’re seeing theses days — despite having “fried” included in its name, KFC is promoting its new grilled chicken options. Pizza Hut and Domino’s Pizza, presumably named for their pizza, are now offering pastas and hot subs. Designer coffees to rival Starbucks are being sold at McDonald’s and Burger King, while Starbucks is offering bargain breakfast options.

Businesses are realizing that customers want to go to just one place for all their needs; they don’t want to have to go to one place for a burger and then somewhere else for coffee. They want convenience, variety and value.

Why do I bring this up? Because it can directly apply to the specialty store retailer looking to stay relevant and grow in a place that consumers accept. That place can be offering custom services, adding to or expanding your product selection or creating events to draw crowds.

According to our last poll question, the fastest growing product categories for Museums & More readers are toys and plush, followed closely by “green” products and paper/stationery products. While you don’t have to have a wide selection of each, are you at least carrying a couple lines of these products? Do you have a little bit of everything for everyone who comes in your store?

Because while you may be a “specialty” store with a specific focus, it never hurts to dip your toe in the profit pool for something a little bit different.

What makes your store unique?
The Museum Store at the University of Michigan Museum of Art is located on the university’s central campus in the heart of Ann Arbor, Mich. We serve both the campus and the local community. In addition, we welcome visitors from all 50 states and around the world. We offer many unique, local and custom products available only in the Museum Store. For example, our T-shirts were designed by a U of M student and produced locally, and we carry a line of handmade greeting cards produced by a local artist exclusively for the Museum Store.

What is your retail background?
I have a degree in retailing/business from Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, Mich., and started my retail career (buying) in women’s clothing for a large chain more than 30 years ago. I have been the store manager at the University of Michigan Museum of Art for the past 15 years and have been involved in the planning and operations of five temporary and permanent museum stores during that time.

What trade shows do you attend?
I try to vary my buying habits because I am always searching for something new and unique to offer our customers, but the NYIGF has always been a favorite. I regularly check out Web sites and whatever trade publications I can get my hands on for new products and trends. I also find that our customers really appreciate our custom products and the ability to buy and support “local” artists and vendors.

What is your favorite part about working in this industry?
The people are my favorite — store customers, museum staff and the many wonderful vendors who share my passion for delivering exceptional customer service and developing great product lines that compose our merchandise mix.

What advice do you have for other retailers?
Think outside the box to keep your customers coming back. Museum stores, in particular, are uniquely situated to offer products that reflect the museum’s identity and mission. Be sure your customers know the “stories” that your products have to tell either by signage, sales staff or printed story cards.