With August just two weeks away, students and parents are putting together their back-to-school shopping lists. Bob Phibbs, CEO of the Retail Doctor in New York, joins Rachel Pierson on the WBBM Noon Business Hour discuss the financial impact of back-to-school shopping and how inflation and modern tech needs are driving up costs. Bob shares insights into the National Retail Federation's statistics, highlighting an average spend of $875, which for some families rivals their holiday budgets. We explore how teachers are also feeling the pinch, often having to budget for classroom supplies themsel ..read more

Join me, as I dive into the challenges and solutions of hiring and training retail employees in 2024. In this live session, Bob answers questions from viewers, offering candid advice and insights on how to attract, train, and retain the best talent in the retail industry. I discuss the evolving expectations of today's workforce, the importance of proper training, and the need for competitive compensation. I also address the common pitfalls of hiring practices and provide actionable tips for creating a motivated and loyal team. Whether you're a store owner, manager, or aspiring retail professio ..read more

Join Bob Fibbs, the retail doc, at the Virginia Transportation Museum in Roanoke as he explores the significance of curiosity and innovation in shaping our world. Standing beside a massive steam engine, Bob delves into historical anecdotes, such as the origin of the phrase "the real McCoy," to illustrate the power of human ingenuity. Bob expresses concern about the current generation's lack of engagement with the world of wonder and encourages parents, aunts, uncles, and mentors to expose young minds to the marvels of history and engineering. Through captivating stories of past inventions and ..read more

" Discover the history and significant impact of small businesses on the national economy, as well as inspiring tales of resilience, innovation, and entrepreneurship from prominent business owners. President John F. Kennedy first officiated the celebration of small businesses in the first week of May, acknowledging their significant contribution to job creation and economic activity. Highlighting the journey from humble beginnings to market dominance, these storytelling podcasts depict a vivid picture of courageous entrepreneurs who dared to challenge convention, turn risks into opportunities ..read more

In this episode, Rob from WBBM NEWSRADIO delves into 'Sephora Kids,' an intriguing phenomenon involving tweens gravitating towards skincare, driven by social media platforms like TikTok. Speaking to us is Bob Phibbs, CEO of the Retail Doctor, based in New York. Bob explains how these young girls from 10 to 12-year-olds are watching skincare videos online, visiting stores like Sephora and Ulta, and selecting high-end products designed for mature skin. The result? There is an unfortunate increase in skincare issues among the young demographic, including acne and rashes. As parents struggle to co ..read more

Join Bob Phibbs, a.k.a. the Retail Doc, as he shares his valuable insights on how to boost retail sales by effectively utilizing add-on strategies. Having helped retailers amass millions in sales worldwide, Bob discusses the importance and practicality of add-ons - items suggested for purchase in addition to an initial acquisition. In this instructive episode, Bob demonstrates how a simple item like a hair massager can be the perfect add-on. Priced at just $5, it's an easy and affordable option for customers, particularly those in a salon setting. Bob emphasizes the value of starting with smal ..read more

I was in NYC this past weekend and observed in many of the stores with "help wanted" signs on their doors - employees stuck in their phones and leaning. Unless and until you see what I see, customers will leave without purchasing. No matter how few employees you have.  ..read more

Do you thank your customers? At the time of purchase, of course. But your follow-up with a handwritten thank you can go a long way to cementing you as their store of choice. Here's another way to use thank yous to grow your sales.  ..read more

Today I'm sharing a tip about your mindset. Get it right and you sell more, you meet more engaging people, you enjoy your life. Miss it, and you talk in the language of disappointment.  ..read more

Starting today,I 'm telling real stories to show how retailers stop customers from returning. First one How Stale Merchandising is Killing Your Sales   Register for the webinar here https://zoom.us/.../1516818218889/WN_uRDJS9mcSKC9Gi-Tc8AuCQ ..read more