Many small businesses may be struggling during the recession while international chains such as Starbucks and Wal-Mart seemingly still opening new stores on every corner, but all is not lost.
For while strip-malls and shopping boulevards across the US become ever-more uniform, small shops are being given a golden opportunity to drum up trade by standing out from the pack and offering something a little bit different.
To that end, the New London Pharmacy in New York City has been highlighted as a great example of how a nickel-and-dime store can thrive by playing to its strengths.
In an article by Fox News entitled 'Advice for Mom-and-Pop Shops: You’d Better Be Special', the store was name-checked for its novel approach to retail.
New London Pharmacy offers its customers something bigger stores do not by bringing in beauty experts and nutritionists to explain to consumers the exact benefits of different items in store, particularly those not stocked by larger chains.
The shop is one of several highlighted by Robert Spector, a retail writer and author of 'The Mom and Pop Store: How the Unsung Heroes of the American Economy are Surviving.
He told Fox News that New London Pharmacy's owner has remained competitive despite being surrounded by CVS, Duane Reade and other chains of that ilk.
"When you go to her store, you're going to get something different," the retail expert added. "If you're going to be a speciality retailer, you'd better be special."
The pharmacy stocks various products for face, body, hair - as well as perfumes and fragrances - in addition to its health products, all of which are available on its website.
It has been in business since 1960 and prides itself on its ability to offer homeopathy, natural remedies and luxury items in addition to traditional pharmaceutical services.
"Our goal is to incorporate personal care, attentive personnel, and professionalism in a trusting and continuing relationship," New London Pharmacy says on its site.
"The core of our success is inspiration, dedication, education, and a value driven mission that continues on a daily basis."
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