nickshanagher

Get out and mingle, venture capitalist and FT columnist Luke Johnson advised business people in a column last month. While he targeted his remarks at people sat behind desks, they are equally valid for business leaders who stand behind a counter. Local retailers need to visit other shops and see what they are doing. In addition, they should attend trade shows and conferences to meet other people and share ideas and know-how. They should also think about going somewhere new to refresh their minds. With this idea in my head, I toured the Speciality and Fine Food Fair in London’s Olympia last month – now incorporating Chocolatefair. The organisers have already announced that more than 8,300 people visited the show, now in its 12th year, at which more than 550 businesses exhibited. While the fair is targeted at fine food outlets, there is plenty for local c-store operators to learn and the first thing is about selling. What is great about this show is that most of the stands are run ...