Majority of Retailers Say Sales up in ’18

Labor is on the mind of a growing number of nonprofit and specialty retailers.

When Museums & More asked readers in our annual survey what work-related topic kept them awake at night, labor and staffing challenges were cited far and away above all else.

In a separate labor-focused survey, 60 percent said they struggled to find enough employees in 2018. More than half that did also said the problem is worse than it was two years ago. Staffing is something we plan to take a closer look at in the coming months.

While labor, as well as finding volunteers, is a challenge for many, for the third straight year a majority of survey takers report increasing sales. This year, 52 percent said revenue was up — 49 percent said so a year ago — while 15 percent said sales went in the wrong direction. The other 34 percent said numbers were about the same.

In other year-over-year comparisons, we asked what our readers’ top three product categories are and, once again, souvenirs was cited the most often, although the percentage dropped from 47 percent last year to 40 percent this time around. Apparel (including hats) and books rounded out the top three again, however, toys, plush, jewelry and home décor were named more frequently this year.

Surveys aren’t exact, of course. However, they do provide some fascinating insight toward the challenges and successes of our audience, and we greatly appreciate your time in providing that feedback to us. Our goal is to use it to give you more of what you need to be successful.

Here are more results.