The newest episode of the Independent Thinking Podcast has an amazing guest Mr B's Emporium who speaks with host Alexandra about customer service and retail trends.
There are few places you can escape reality better (on the high street at least) than in a bookshop. Shelves filled with history, memoirs, adventure, sadness, scandal and delight; wonder, joy, pleasure and heartbreak. Books can transport us to another time and remind us that some thoughts and feelings are as old as time itself.
Imagination is at the heart of what makes books and authors so special, of course, but what about the booksellers themselves? Well, it turns out they can be just as imaginative as the authors on their shelves. And that’s what I’ll be exploring this week with two-time-winning bookshop Mr B’s Emporium, based in Bath.
I chat to co-founder Nic about extreme customer service and why it matters, how customers respond to world events through their reading habits, why he remains an optimist about the health of the high street and whether writers can truly predict the future.
Our resources
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Preventing a cyber attack and fraud as an independent business | A simple yet important checklist for retailers
Practical cyber security advice for independent retailers to protect their business, customers and data from cyber attacks and fraud.
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The Employment Rights Act: Your handy one-page printout as an independent retail business
A one-sheet guide to key Employment Rights Act changes, practical actions for retailers and important dates employers need to know.
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Martyn’s Law – what you need to know as an independent retailer (and actions to take)
Martyn’s Law will require some retailers to strengthen emergency procedures and staff preparedness ahead of 2027 implementation.
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Award-nominated businesses highlight the brilliance, ingenuity and community spirit of independent retail during COVID
Love Your High Street Awards nominations highlight how independent businesses supported their communities and adapted during COVID.