This week on the Impact Retail Success Club call, we had an interesting discussion that I thought may be helpful to share.

One of the key concerns that came up was around price increases, which, understandably, can feel like a tricky issue.

But as we dug deeper, it led us to an even more crucial conversation: positioning.

In business, positioning is crucial.

You see, whether you're aware of it or not, everything you do in your business is shaping how it’s positioned.

Every decision you make, big or small, impacts how your business is perceived by your customers, your team, and your community.

The uniform you wear and how your team presents themselves.

The stories you share and the words you use.

The people you surround yourself with.

The way your shop looks from the outside.

The displays you put on in your shop.

The cleanliness of your shop.

The quality of your point of sale material and signage.

Your opening hours.

And the prices you charge.

All of these elements work together to create a picture in your customer’s mind.

And when they’re congruent, you create a clear and compelling brand that’s positioned exactly where you want it to be.

If things aren’t in alignment, for example, your shop looks high-end but the service or prices don’t match - it can confuse your customers.

And in business, confusion is never a good thing.

So, here’s something to think about this week: Are you positioning your business where you want it to be?

Are all the elements working together?

Or is there something that could be pulling you in the wrong direction?

Take a step back and evaluate.

Sometimes it’s the smallest details that can make the biggest difference.

As we discussed on our call, it’s perfectly fine to have a reputation for being expensive, but your story and all the other elements that shape your business’s position need to pull in the same direction.

Have a great week.

Mark