Museums and More

Play Your Cards Right

According to the Greeting Card Association, Americans purchase 7 billion greeting cards every year for an annual retail sales total of more than $7.5 billion. With an estimated 100,000 retail outlets around the country selling greeting cards, the question begging to be asked is, “Are you?” Whether you’re running a specialty store in a zoo, an airport or a museum, people are coming in because they want a reminder of the experience they just had. If they’re buying a gift, they’ll need a card. And while a zoo will have much different needs than those of an art museum or a hospital, cards and stationery fit the bill as the perfect way to say, “thank you,” “wish you were here” or “look where I’ve been.” “Gift shops should definitely keep a nice range of occasion and blank notes for their customers who purchase gifts,” said Karen…  » Read more

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Rev Up Sales

The Harley-Davidson Museum claims that whatever you call yourself — an enthusiast, a curiosity-seeker, an educator or a family looking for a fun change of pace — you’re all invited to jump on and enjoy the ride. This holds true for shoppers as well. If you were looking for a unique retail experience, it wouldn’t hurt to rev up your engine and head over to the 20-acre site in downtown Milwaukee, Wis., that is home to The Harley-Davidson Museum. Open 364 days a year, it’s not your typical Museum, so it’s no surprise that the Museum Shop isn’t your typical store. “Just as Harley-Davidson is more than our motorcycles, The Shop at the Harley-Davidson Museum is more than just souvenirs,” said Barb Mannion, manager of retail, events and programs for the Harley-Davidson Museum and Factory Tours. “The Shop is an extension of the excitement visitors…  » Read more

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The ZooStore at Woodland Park

Membership has its benefits, but these benefits don’t have to be at the expense of the destination. A few seasons ago, the ZooStore at Woodland Park Zoo in Seattle eliminated its member discount, replacing it with a Members Exclusive arrangement. Advertisement for a limited-edition, time-sensitive program just for members is placed in the quarterly member’s magazine. Members have responded favorably to this promotion and the zoo has improved margins by saving on discounted sales. “Strong internal marketing helps balance dry spells that can often be felt by the not-for-profit sector, which sometimes seems to be at the mercy of the elements or its membership base,” said Terry Blumer, ZooStore manager. “In Seattle, weather can keep our members and tourists away, so a focus on our staff and volunteers helps us keep sales moving.” Animal Motivation Woodland Park Zoo itself is the fourth oldest zoo in the…  » Read more

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