This issue is a convergence of two independent topics that, in some cases, may belong together. When we mention back-to-school, many of us turn our thoughts to children returning to school and/or their parents heading out on special buying trips to find specific items that are needed for a new school year. Books, computers, cell phones, clothing and, of course, select housewares products ... all see a spike in demand in August. It’s like a feeding frenzy, and every retailer should have their long line of fresh back-to-school bait trolling for potential sales opportunities. Any parent who has endured the extra-long lines at Staples this time of year can attest to this phenomenon.
For me, back-to-school is about to take on a whole new meaning, as my oldest daughter will be a senior in high school next year and will soon be off to college. As part of this process, I have had the benefit recently of visiting many college campuses and, of course, getting a glimpse at the living accommodations. The word compact certainly comes to mind. My mind is already racing, and I have even carved out a special area in the basement to set aside some choice housewares products that will be a necessity for my college girl. Let’s see ... the Nespresso Pixie can fit over there, and the water boiler for those late-night ready-to-eat meals can plug in over there ... the list can be quite extensive.
So, let’s not forget that back-to-school also means that college students are returning to their dorms or, more importantly, moving into new apartments! This also presents an opportunity for retailers engaged in the housewares and home décor business, as my friend Simon Shapiro at Tags Hardware in Cambridge, Mass., can attest. Simon welcomes droves of college students back to Boston as the city swells with new urban dwellers, and his store stands at the ready to outfit them for their every need. I am sure he will tell you it competes with the holidays as the busiest time of year.
I hope this issue inspires you to take full advantage of this seasonal event. As you’re reading our feature on space-saving products, remember that these products are also relevant to the back-to-school college crowd, who will also be demanding these products in the coming weeks.
Have a great summer!
David Spencer
Publisher, Gourmet Business
President, HousewaresDirect, Inc.
dspencer@gourmetbusiness.com