2005 CGTA Retailer of the Year

Elliott & Company, winner of the CGTA's 2005 Retailer of the Year Award, share some tips to help retailers excel in customer service:

1. Greet every customer with a genuine smile when they enter
2. Make it personal. Get to know your client's names, likes, and dislikes.
3. Give your customers the freedom to explore. Don't smother them the second they get in the store. Let the customer discover unique products without feeling hassled.
4. Focus on introducing and informing the customer on new products, rather than selling.
5. Wrap absolutely everything for free.
6. Accept returns for refund or credit with grace.
7. Offer free local delivery of all oversize merchandise.
8. Find ways to thank your clients for shopping with you. Offer extra services like customized gift baskets, or offer home consultation for a fee, then waive the fee with a minimum purchase.

First opened in 1987 by Mark and Krys Elliott, professional working artists, Elliott & Company is based in St. Catherines, Ontario.