Retail Industry/Expert Profile


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Expertise

I can answer most anything on retail sales, marketing, placement, packaging, importing and distribution.

Experience in the area

15 years in retail as a store owner/ manager then buyer for a large retail chain. 24 years as a sales and marketing specialist and entrepeneur. I have worked with companies in Europe, China, Canada and Mexico in developing, marketing and sales of product to major retailers throughout the USA.

Education/Credentials

Long Beach State

What do you like about this subject?

I have been involved in some facet of retail my entire working life.

Something interesting about this subject that others may not know:

The average retail business fails within the first three years; this is usually due to improper planning and execution. Ask as many questions as possible before you commit your time and energy; it will be worth it.

Something controversial or provocative about this subject

The world is changing at a rapid pace; manufacturing and production have moved quickly from the USA to many foreign countries. Whether we like it or not, it is the way of the world and it isn't going back to the way it used to be. Now more than ever we must prepare ourselves to work and service within a global marketplace.

Average Ratings

Recent Reviews from Users

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    K = Knowledgeability    C = Clarity of Response    P = Politeness
UserDateKCPComments
Anne Canavan08/16/11101010 
Nash08/15/11 
Nan03/08/10101010Thank you Steven. You are so very .....
Nan02/24/10101010I can't describe how much I feel .....
Ken08/07/09101010His responses worked well for me. Very .....

Recent Answers from Steven Ramsby

2011-07-10 Department store markups:

Sorry for the long delay on this, for some reason it did not come through.  Department stores normally price each category based on competition and also their basic margin requirements.  Certain categories

2010-03-28 new designs:

Louise,  This one is definitely up my alley as that is what I do now, sell home decor and furnishings to large retailers.  I would be very interested to see the product you have and could probably help

2009-08-06 buyer insight:

Ken,  It's kind of a mix of, yes, you can just cold call and yes, it's a good old boy network.  I'm an independent rep and service mainly major accounts on the west coast.  A lot of getting through or

2009-08-06 buyer insight:

Ken,  Surprisingly enough, this is perfectly normal.  Keep in mind that the prices they are quoting you are more than likely a "first cost" which means factors such as handling, shipping, duties, insurance

2009-07-22 Selling sleepwear to retail stores:

Luisa,  Sorry for the delay on this but I am currently in the hospital. First off, not knowing what your specific product is, other than sleepwear, it's difficult to ascertain the avenues of retail distribution

 

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