Recap of the Fall 2018 SMCo Thrift National Training Conference
Another event has come and gone. And it was amazing. Having more of my team there would be better. I really felt this conference was valuable. I learned thrift is a different animal than regular retail … and is actually manufacturing. I had not thought of it in this manner. The most valuable thing I […]
Recap of the Spring 2018 SMCo Thrift National Training Conference
April 18th to 20th was filled with the sharing of non-traditional ideas, some challenging conversations and hands-on learning, all in an effort to Do Thrift Better. And while the most recent SMCo Thrift National Conference built upon the foundation of previous events, it certainly had its own “flavor”, due in no small part to the […]
Highlights of 2017 and Dreaming for 2018
2017 is officially in the history books and 2018 is upon us. So what lessons were learned that will help make 2018 your best year yet? Highlights of 2017 In the pursuit to Do Thrift Better, here are highlights from 2017 that help chart the way forward in 2018. The 2017 SMCo Thrift National Training Conference […]
Saying “Thank You” to a Donor
We’ve been predicting a spike in donations for weeks. With Christmas now past, old items are replaced with the new gifts. And, if we’re lucky, those gently used “old items” come to your thrift store. It’s critical we don’t miss the chance to say “thank you” to each and every donor. A Christmas Tradition Along with the […]
Preparing for the Rush of Donations (Part 2 of 2)
Previously, a plan was identified to collect relevant information on donations and then analyze that data to identify trends. With this information in hand, we’re ready to implement some strategies and tactics so we can be prepared for the rush of donations. Be Proactive Here are suggestions to handle an influx of donations. Have extra supplies and receptacles […]
Gaining a Fresh Perspective
The final days of the year are upon us. It is a natural time to reflect and dream on what the future can hold for your thrift operation and the non-profit you support. To do so, it’s important to gain a fresh perspective so as not to stay stuck in a rut. For an art […]
Preparing for the Rush of Donations (Part 1 of 2)
Anticipate the Rush Help! I’ve got too many donations coming too quickly! Have you heard these cries from your team? Of all the challenges facing a thrift operation, an overwhelming rush of donations is the best one to have. But it isn’t stress free. Donations are the lifeblood of every thrift store. Without them you don’t exist. The […]
Recap of the 2017 SMCo Thrift National Training Conference
Two weeks ago, we wrapped up the 2017 SMCo Thrift National Training Conference. Based on the feedback, it was more than could have been hoped for. First off, the conference was excellent. Worth every minute of my time. The content and presenters were top notch and engaging. Great conference. Attendees were very open and willing […]
Making It Automatic
There is a list of actions I do automatically. They take no thought because they are ingrained in my mind. For example, take tying my shoes. My son must consciously think through creating a tree, circling around it before going through the hole to make the knot. For me, it’s automatic. Typing is another example. […]
Join Us for the 2017 SMCo Thrift National Training Conference
On October 18th to 20th, the SMCo Thrift team will share the principles, strategies and tools used in the 50+ locations where we have assisted in launching, managing, and expanding thrift stores. The SMCo Thrift National Training Conference will help any thrift operator – big or small, chain or independent – Do Thrift Better. Check […]