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Ryan Atkinson has continued his travels and brings us the latest in how brands, suppliers, and merchants in bicycle retail are feeling during some uncertain times. There are bright spots and some optimism, particularly among retailers. Themes from industry eventsBicycle Leadership Conference (suppliers)NBDA Retailer Summit (both) - join the Midwest event in Bentonville in MayCABDA West (both)Uncertainty among suppliers, optimism with dealersTariff confusion and frustrationThrottle electric bikesUsed and pre-ownedTap into health/beauty, active lifestyle, prioritize healthProfitabilityEcommerceMarch online sales performanceUS sales +9% and orders +7%CA sales -18% and orders -32% (sporting goods generally -6.9%)Dollar growth was fueled by road and mountain bikes, plus the surprise performance of comfort and commuter bikes. Electric bikes had a surprising slump.CA non-essential discretionary down, calls from concerned clientsUS consumers getting ahead of tariffsCyclingnews article on DeMinimis (Ryan's rant)Bummed how they characterized Bob Margevicius' testimonyBob is a VP for SpecializedHe's an exceptional representative for our industry on trade issuesNobody knows EU, Asian, and US manufacturing/trade as wellTireless contributor and just awarded PFB lifetime achievement awardAuthor conflated legitimate tariff frustration with DeMinimisDeMinimus exemption increased to $800 in 2016PFB has lobbied for change sinceReason for so much cheap product disrupting IBD marketCheap D2C electric bikes, cheap helmets and lights on Temu, etcUnsafe for consumers, erodes value proposition for retailers, takes away high margin retail salesI want to encourage listeners not to spread click bait rumors just because they think the headline gets attentionBe sure to email your questions to podcast@workstand.com. We read all emails sent and we look forward to hearing from you.If you're a Workstand client with questions about your subscription, email support@workstand.com or call 303-527-0676 x 1. If you are not currently a Workstand client with questions about how our programs work, email info@workstand.com.Find Us on LinkedInRyan Atkinson, President + Co-OwnerSuzie Livingston, Marketing + CommunicationsMark Still, Business DevelopmentWe also publish Around the Workstand on our YouTube channel if you'd like to watch while you listen. Here is our Around the Workstand playlist.If you have any questions about the topics discussed in this episode of Around the Workstand or if you have ideas for new topics we can cover, schedule a time to meet with Mark Still here or email mark.s@works...

In this episode, we delve into the intricacies of conducting successful promotions, a pivotal segment in our ongoing year-long marketing program aimed at empowering businesses. We focus on strategies that not only help retailers remain competitive but also enhance customer engagement, particularly as we approach the prime spring sale season. Our discussion emphasizes that promotions extend beyond discounts; they can also include introducing new products or spotlighting significant changes within a business.https://blog.workstand.com/successful-salesWe start by laying a strong foundation: your website serves as the digital storefront that consumers first interact with. We stress the importance of ensuring your website is user-friendly and accurately reflects any promotional efforts you undertake. This includes maintaining consistency between online pricing and in-store prices to avoid alienating customers. Customers today are well-informed and intermediaries like your website often form their first impression, so we highlight the necessity of making it easy for them to find information and navigate through promotional content.Emphasizing the logistics of running a promotion, we tackle essential operational aspects such as point-of-sale (POS) system synchronization, which ensures consistency across platforms. Details like enabling shopping cart functionality for in-store pick-ups and offering financing options through partners like Klarna and PayPal allow businesses to provide a seamless shopping experience that can significantly impact conversions.As we transition from logistics to aesthetics, we explain the need for a compelling homepage hero image that reflects the current promotion—a focal point to capture attention upon entry to the website. We reminisce about the importance of keeping content relevant and up-to-date, ensuring that promotional messaging resonates with seasonal themes. When it comes to actual outreach, we prioritize email as one of the most cost-effective methods to notify customers of promotions. Social media plays a complementary role, providing a platform for sharing specific products, staff picks, and engaging visuals that build excitement. We also cover paid advertising strategies, including Google Shopping ads and the use of YouTube ads, which can be powerful tools to reach wider audiences and drive targeted traffic during promotional periods.Be sure to email your questions to podcast@workstand.com. We read all emails sent and we look forward to hearing from you.If you're a Workstand client with questions about your subscription, email support@workstand.com or call 303-527-0676 x 1. If you are not currently a Workstand client with questions about how our programs work, email info@workstand.com.Find Us on LinkedInRyan Atkinson, President + Co-OwnerSuzie Livingston, Marketing + CommunicationsMark Still, Business DevelopmentWe also publish Around the Workstand on our YouTube channel if you'd like to watch while you listen. Here is our Around the Workstand playlist.If you have any questions about the topics discussed in this episode of Around the Workstand or if you have ideas for new topics we can cover, schedule a time to meet with Mark Still here or email mark.s@works...

Ryan is back with us after some travel, but he's not done yet! There are a few more trade shows and industry gatherings on the horizon, and he'll be presenting at most of them. We talk about those shows and the state of the bicycle industry, and the vibe and attitude of the dealers Ryan is meeting at shows like CABDA.CABDA MidwestSplit, dealers looking to diversity with ecommerce growthDealers looking for foot trafficUniversal interest in Google advertisingLot of POS conversationsLot of praise for our customer service team Seminars for CABDA and with suppliers like Specialized, QBP, and J&BCABDA WestDay early for the NBDA retailer summitHeather and her team host important conversations2 days of CABDA connecting with largely western dealersVibe from Chicago was optimisticHoping for the same thingBicycle Leadership Conference next weekPeopleForBikesSenior management from suppliersWeighty topics like finance, forecasting, and government policySustainability, ridership, and health benefits of cyclingOn a panel discussion reviewing 2024 data and looking aheadReal discussions will happen off the stageExpect to learn a lot about sentiment and expectationsOnline salesLast year online sales on Workstand outpaced the overall IBD space2025 is off to a good startUp 7% through the end of FebruaryLargely driven by twice as many electric bikes sold online YTDSite traffic is -12% suggesting a drop in shopping activityElectric bikes are driving up average order size and revenue per sessionMake sure you're actively marketing your electric bikes onlineConsumers are buyingOptimism for the springOverall economy and consumers are uncertainBike shops on the whole are running business leanGotta keep energy levels up to keep staff motivatedBe ready to be busyDo the work to get busyRamp up marketing to get foot traffic and try to get some momentumLean into the categories that are movingElectric bikesClass 2Class 3 road and mountainAluminum drop bar bikesMarket your service department starting nowBe sure to email your questions to podcast@workstand.com. We read all emails sent and we look forward to hearing from you.If you're a Workstand client with questions about your subscription, email support@workstand.com or call 303-527-0676 x 1. If you are not currently a Workstand client with questions about how our programs work, email info@workstand.com.Find Us on LinkedInRyan Atkinson, President + Co-OwnerSuzie Livingston, Marketing + CommunicationsMark Still, Business DevelopmentWe also publish Around the Workstand on our YouTube channel if you'd like to watch while you listen. Here is our Around the Workstand playlist.If you have any questions about the topics discussed in this episode of Around the Workstand or if you have ideas for new topics we can cover, schedule a time to meet with Mark Still here or email mark.s@works...

We continue our series on marketing your business for sales growth in-store and online in 2025 with tips on website and marketing setups that make shopping your online store easier and reduce purchase friction,For more details, check out our latest blog post - https://blog.workstand.com/make-shopping-easyDesign - minimal clutter, accessibility Make it easy for shoppers to find what they are looking forSearch functionNavigation - minimal clicks, don't bury the shop button, organizationDistinct calls to action - send shoppers to intuitive links where they can purchase the item your suggestingSingle page checkout - new enhancement Follow up and post purchase communicationsThe purchase journey does not end when they complete their purchase on your website - think of this as just the first step in their next purchase with youCommunicate clear fulfillment expectationsLeverage your website to keep them coming backKeep fresh content up so return visitors see something newWorkstandIQ Loyalty - automated, transactional emailsBe sure to email your questions to podcast@workstand.com. We read all emails sent and we look forward to hearing from you.If you're a Workstand client with questions about your subscription, email support@workstand.com or call 303-527-0676 x 1. If you are not currently a Workstand client with questions about how our programs work, email info@workstand.com.Find Us on LinkedInRyan Atkinson, President + Co-OwnerSuzie Livingston, Marketing + CommunicationsMark Still, Business DevelopmentWe also publish Around the Workstand on our YouTube channel if you'd like to watch while you listen. Here is our Around the Workstand playlist.If you have any questions about the topics discussed in this episode of Around the Workstand or if you have ideas for new topics we can cover, schedule a time to meet with Mark Still here or email mark.s@works...

Around the Workstand Daily - we are often asked about training and our How To videos are the most viewed videos we produce so Around the Workstand Daily hopes to address frequent, short, videos to help our clients learn important features and do so more efficiently than the production work that goes into a more planned video. So, they won't be perfect sometimes but they'll help those who would rather watch a video than read a help center article. Here's our Around the Workstand Daily playlist on YouTube.Ryan and Brian are at CABDA - visit them at booth #815What's working best for Workstand retailers? Google adsSupplier sync and direct fulfillmentPremium themes - great way to set yourself apart and create a consistent style for your website and marketingBe sure to email your questions to podcast@workstand.com. We read all emails sent and we look forward to hearing from you.If you're a Workstand client with questions about your subscription, email support@workstand.com or call 303-527-0676 x 1. If you are not currently a Workstand client with questions about how our programs work, email info@workstand.com.Find Us on LinkedInRyan Atkinson, President + Co-OwnerSuzie Livingston, Marketing + CommunicationsMark Still, Business DevelopmentWe also publish Around the Workstand on our YouTube channel if you'd like to watch while you listen. Here is our Around the Workstand playlist.If you have any questions about the topics discussed in this episode of Around the Workstand or if you have ideas for new topics we can cover, schedule a time to meet with Mark Still here or email mark.s@works...

Today is the first episode of a series for 2025 focused on helping bicycle shops effectively market and grow their businesses. We've always talked about marketing on the show however, we saw in 2024 that merchants who proactively promoted their businesses, the ones who engaged with the tools available to make their stores more visible to shoppers, those stores had impressive wins while business owners who took a passive or underresourced approach lost ground and saw shrinking sales year over year. As the head of our Google Ads Team, Matt Viara says, “Engagement = Growth” and that was certainly true in 2024 and will continue to apply in 2025 and beyond. We iterated Engagement = Growth during this episode and came up with E=G3 (that's G cubed) because there is leverage in engagement and it is significant.Let's move on to the first of eleven Around the Workstand episodes this year focusing on a specific action area. For February it's Win Google Search.Welcome Around the Workstand!Blog post for reference Website, website, websiteMaintenanceLocalize your contentPage titles/meta descriptionsControl how you show up - Google Business Profile (GBP)Leverage free shopping listings Compete for the best placement with Google adsSearch - great for awarenessShopping - connect with ready-to-buy customersRegional or National is possible for a fewCash flow was the focusFree shipping - start at $100, can always lower the threshold Retailers were special buying and discountingLocalWhere the majority of bike shops see great ROASBig plus: shipping, discounts, advanced processes not requiredAttribution Making shoppers aware is the goal We meet people where they are, people buy lots of waysBudget - the most general level$20 a day - advertise bikes - the bigger footprint you want the more budget required for successGeo depends on your area$500/moLocal ads - $125/mo + 10% of ad spend Monthly call, unlimited email, no contracts Specificity - granularity thwarts successEngaged = growth or E=G3Be sure to email your questions to podcast@workstand.com. We read all emails sent and we look forward to hearing from you.If you're a Workstand client with questions about your subscription, email support@workstand.com or call 303-527-0676 x 1. If you are not currently a Workstand client with questions about how our programs work, email info@workstand.com.Find Us on LinkedInRyan Atkinson, President + Co-OwnerSuzie Livingston, Marketing + CommunicationsMark Still, Business DevelopmentWe also publish Around the Workstand on our YouTube channel if you'd like to watch while you listen. Here is our Around the Workstand playlist.If you have any questions about the topics discussed in this episode of Around the Workstand or if you have ideas for new topics we can cover, schedule a time to meet with Mark Still here or email mark.s@works...

Wow, 2024 went by in the blink of an eye, faster than a Di2 shift, how was your year? Ryan, Suzie, and Mark take a look back at our bicycle industry sales results for the year, broader economic conditions that contributed, and where the winners made a difference. Then, a look at the trends heading into 2025 and what we can all expect for bicycle and aftermarket sales. Marketing and, specifically, Google ads, will play a big role for those aiming to grow sales and expand their footprint in 2025. Owning a successful bike shop isn't for the faint of heart but we've got insights, tips, and actionable suggestions to help.2024 market recapRoller coaster year at retail, with unpredictable demand/salesPeopleForBikes says IBD -9% through OctoberS&P Global2024 - We anticipate a nearly 7% decline in total bicycle unit sales by the end of the year, with an expected total of around 12 million units2024 on WorkstandWorkstand platform +4% through Oct (mirror PFB)Finished year positive 5%Results driven by high performers in aftermarket and bike salesOver half of bikes sold at discount, discounts averaged -27%Consumers bought nicer bikes so ASP up 14%Unfortunately, the typical dealer on Workstand down 11% for the yearResults dropped off in the second half of the yearHoliday shopping season especially poorNeed to find a way to get more dealers marketingClear division between those advertising on Google and not2025 expectationsCautiously optimistic for our clients as a wholeHigh expectations for top retailers17 dealers sold over $1M online last year (top nearly $7M)150 dealers solve over $100kWe can make a big difference in growth Uncertain aftermarketService will continue modest gains of about 2%What can a dealer do if they want to be a top performer in 2025Identify categories that will generate growthEx: mid-priced aluminum road, class 2 electric lifestyle bikes, class 3 electric roadBuild a stocking strategy accordinglyMarket to stimulate further demandFocus on local market share through Google search and local shoppingLean heavily on selling bikes online locallyBe sure to email your questions to podcast@workstand.com. We read all emails sent and we look forward to hearing from you.If you're a Workstand client with questions about your subscription, email support@workstand.com or call 303-527-0676 x 1. If you are not currently a Workstand client with questions about how our programs work, email info@workstand.com.Find Us on LinkedInRyan Atkinson, President + Co-OwnerSuzie Livingston, Marketing + CommunicationsMark Still, Business DevelopmentWe also publish Around the Workstand on our YouTube channel if you'd like to watch while you listen. Here is our Around the Workstand playlist.If you have any questions about the topics discussed in this episode of Around the Workstand or if you have ideas for new topics we can cover, schedule a time to meet with Mark Still here or email mark.s@works...

We'll be taking some time away from the podcast during December so this will be our final 2024 episode. We thought we'd recap some of the accomplishments of 2024 and look forward to 2025. Around the Workstand will resume in January 2025 and we're looking forward to another year of sharing tips and actionable information with you all.Around the Workstand grew a lot in 2024 so thank you to everyone who watched and listened. It means so much to me, Suzie, and Ryan that you found some value and entertainment in the show.New and/or returning Supplier Sync partners for 2024Santa CruzIbisOtsoGazelle - going live today!POS enhancementsWork order managementSMS messaging Ecommerce enhancements Variation tiles on Product Detail PagesNew checkout being rolled out in phasesMany other infrastructure enhancementsMost popular Around the Workstand episodes in 2024Industry updates with Ryan were consistently the most viewed (video) and downloaded (audio) episodesThey were followed closely by episodes where we talked about our new POS features and by episodes where we gave actionable tips for growing salesWe'll bring back Tech Tips in 2025 - we aren't really sure why we stopped doing those but there were popular.Be sure to email your questions to podcast@workstand.com. We read all emails sent and we look forward to hearing from you.If you're a Workstand client with questions about your subscription, email support@workstand.com or call 303-527-0676 x 1. If you are not currently a Workstand client with questions about how our programs work, email info@workstand.com.Find Us on LinkedInRyan Atkinson, President + Co-OwnerSuzie Livingston, Marketing + CommunicationsMark Still, Business DevelopmentWe also publish Around the Workstand on our YouTube channel if you'd like to watch while you listen. Here is our Around the Workstand playlist.If you have any questions about the topics discussed in this episode of Around the Workstand or if you have ideas for new topics we can cover, schedule a time to meet with Mark Still here or email mark.s@works...

Tips for how AI can help in retail - what other ways are you using AI?Great brainstorming partner Start with clear goals Ask for specific resultsUse to break a big project or some event planning into easy action itemsAI tools within other applications are an easy way to begin to experiment - Apple Intelligence, email apps, text apps, etc, GrammarlyWarnings and pitfalls merchants should be aware ofImages of people and bicycles are hard for AIAvoid the uncanny valley:/ - it's close but not reallyDon't forget to edit - inject your personality and unique voiceRemember that if you can prompt an AI to create something that you use to represent you or your business, anyone else can do that. Don't let the machine run unchecked, unintended consequences abound.Here is the experiment Suzie did so you can try it yourself. Let us know how it goes!Prompt: What are good dos and don'ts for small businesses interested in leveraging AI for help with marketing? Using AI for marketing can be a game-changer for small businesses, offering tools to boost personalization, streamline operations, and make data-driven decisions. Here are some do's and don'ts to guide you in implementing AI effectively.Do'sDo Start with Clear GoalsDo Use AI to Enhance PersonalizationDo Focus on High-Impact Channels FirstDo Leverage Customer Data ResponsiblyDo Experiment with Predictive AnalyticsDo Train Your TeamDon'tsDon't Automate EverythingDon't Rely Solely on AI for Content CreationDon't Ignore Data Privacy RegulationsDon't Expect Immediate ResultsDon't Neglect TestingDon't Overlook CostsBonus: Tools to ExploreEmail and Social Media AutomationBy following these tips, your small business can harness AI's potential effectively without sacrificing the authenticity and trust you've built with your customers.Be sure to email your questions to podcast@workstand.com. We read all emails sent and we look forward to hearing from you.If you're a Workstand client with questions about your subscription, email support@workstand.com or call 303-527-0676 x 1. If you are not currently a Workstand client with questions about how our programs work, email info@workstand.com.Find Us on LinkedInRyan Atkinson, President + Co-OwnerSuzie Livingston, Marketing + CommunicationsMark Still, Business DevelopmentWe also publish Around the Workstand on our YouTube channel if you'd like to watch while you listen. Here is our Around the Workstand playlist.If you have any questions about the topics discussed in this episode of Around the Workstand or if you have ideas for new topics we can cover, schedule a time to meet with Mark Still here or email mark.s@works...

It's hard to believe we are nearing the end of October 2024, but it's true. If you've looked at your inbox, gone to your mailbox, or watched any TV, you will have noticed that holiday marketing is in full effect. If closing out 2024 sales well is on your to-do list, now is the time to start implementing holiday marketing for your bicycle shop. We have resources, we have support, and Suzie and Mark are here to help.Google ads as part of a local selling strategyFree shopping listingsShopping ads Granularity dos and don'tsYouTube ads Great way to get in front of a captive audienceMandatory 5 sec paying pennies per view DIY is workingTips for getting help managing adsHoliday marketing on a budgetWebsite contentLeveraging your existing evergreen contentPut your suppliers to work Drive traffic Ads Last year's episode with Lauren Webb for Holiday MarketingIndustry trends episode from early October with Ryan AtkinsonBe sure to email your questions to podcast@workstand.com. We read all emails sent and we look forward to hearing from you.If you're a Workstand client with questions about your subscription, email support@workstand.com or call 303-527-0676 x 1. If you are not currently a Workstand client with questions about how our programs work, email info@workstand.com.Find Us on LinkedInRyan Atkinson, President + Co-OwnerSuzie Livingston, Marketing + CommunicationsMark Still, Business DevelopmentWe also publish Around the Workstand on our YouTube channel if you'd like to watch while you listen. Here is our Around the Workstand playlist.If you have any questions about the topics discussed in this episode of Around the Workstand or if you have ideas for new topics we can cover, schedule a time to meet with Mark Still here or email mark.s@works...

September ecommerce metrics show consumers shopping but the typical bike shop not seeing the results online.Site traffic remains strong at +7%Google search volume for “bike shop” comparable to last yearTotal ecommerce sales +7%Typical dealer ecommerce sales -11% (leading indicator for industry)1,800 fewer click & collect orders than August = less retail trafficPeopleForBikes WebinarNerd CollectiveStock to Sales ratio (retail and supplier)DiscountingThe Pro's Closet will close in OctoberEmployees and clients impacted by Hurricane Helene - buy DeFeet socks3 employeesHow to Thrive this Holiday Season - webinar with NBDA Thursday 11 am MTN Focus on ways to create more selling opportunities this seasonMarketing is a numbers game - the more you get in front of potential shoppers, the more selling opportunities you'll haveDigital marketing + Google Efficiency and effectiveness will be a priorityKeep up with website and POS features new releasesBe sure to email your questions to podcast@workstand.com. We read all emails sent and we look forward to hearing from you.If you're a Workstand client with questions about your subscription, email support@workstand.com or call 303-527-0676 x 1. If you are not currently a Workstand client with questions about how our programs work, email info@workstand.com.Find Us on LinkedInRyan Atkinson, President + Co-OwnerSuzie Livingston, Marketing + CommunicationsMark Still, Business DevelopmentWe also publish Around the Workstand on our YouTube channel if you'd like to watch while you listen. Here is our Around the Workstand playlist.If you have any questions about the topics discussed in this episode of Around the Workstand or if you have ideas for new topics we can cover, schedule a time to meet with Mark Still here or email mark.s@works...

Gearing up for our seasonFall is when shops start working “on” the business, not “in” the businessFor 25 years, without fail, our phone rings off the hook in the fallGonna have a lot to talk about this yearAlways talking about websites, ecommerce, and Google searchPoint of sale is the center of a lot of our conversationsBRAIN: 35% of shops are considering a change in POS in the next 12 monthsWe delivered for shops this summerEarly adopters used all seasonReviews have been greatSimple. Modern. Easy to use.Has the exact features most shops useClients have great ideas that will make it even betterAdvantage of working with a smaller company like usWe listen to our customersWhy we are the best choiceEverything you need to streamline your bike shop25 years of experience helping bike shops modernizeTrusted by the entire bike industryFriendly and knowledgeable service by people that know the business of bikesNo debate. We have the best data.Feature to feature we are very competitiveEasy for everyone in the shop to useWhat we haveEverything you need to help a customer at the registerWork orders to help you run a professional service departmentBetter inventory management that companies like Square or CloverSMS text messaging built inHands down the best supplier data integrated throughout the softwareCustomer service you can count onWhat to do if you want to learn more Keep it simpleCall us or request a demoNo pressure. Want you to be informed.If you choose to sign upGet you up and running fast with easy onboardingA member of our team will be with you at every stepBe sure to email your questions to podcast@workstand.com. We read all emails sent and we look forward to hearing from you.If you're a Workstand client with questions about your subscription, email support@workstand.com or call 303-527-0676 x 1. If you are not currently a Workstand client with questions about how our programs work, email info@workstand.com.Find Us on LinkedInRyan Atkinson, President + Co-OwnerSuzie Livingston, Marketing + CommunicationsMark Still, Business DevelopmentWe also publish Around the Workstand on our YouTube channel if you'd like to watch while you listen. Here is our Around the Workstand playlist.If you have any questions about the topics discussed in this episode of Around the Workstand or if you have ideas for new topics we can cover, schedule a time to meet with Mark Still here or email mark.s@works...

Ryan has a cool trip planned with friends on the Aquarius Trail hut to hut next week. 6 days in Southwest Utah with Nebraska friends and no logistics work required.June retail sales PeopleforBikesBright spot is inventory stabilizing across the channelI'm joining a PeopleForBikes webinar later this month to discussJune is typically the high point for sales, but this year the month was very soft. Bike shops were -11% in total sales dollars for the monthBicycle sales -13% and unit sales were -17%Higher unit prices and shift toward more expensive electric bikesBike prices are still falling, but not at the same rate as unit sales. 29” wheel mountain and most road categories are showing some of the best price stability - likely a reflection of returning category health and new product releases. Bicycle repairs are an essential revenue source for shops. June saw the highest YOY increase in bike shop service/repair dollars since 2020, but that's paired with the lowest number of service orders in eight years. While service departments are bringing in increased revenue, there's a bit of caution mixed in as fewer bikes are likely being worked on. Chart in the email tells a clear story on long term trends. Dealers need to join PeopleForBikes and start getting these monthly market reports.August ecommerce results from WorkstandVery good August for some (+11% compared to -2% in July)Better than July for most (-9% compared to -17% in July)Site traffic up all year, August best at +13%Trend continues - Order volume down and average order upStore pickup May-August 32,000 orders (lot of store traffic)Be sure to email your questions to podcast@workstand.com. We read all emails sent and we look forward to hearing from you.If you're a Workstand client with questions about your subscription, email support@workstand.com or call 303-527-0676 x 1. If you are not currently a Workstand client with questions about how our programs work, email info@workstand.com.Find Us on LinkedInRyan Atkinson, President + Co-OwnerSuzie Livingston, Marketing + CommunicationsMark Still, Business DevelopmentWe also publish Around the Workstand on our YouTube channel if you'd like to watch while you listen. Here is our Around the Workstand playlist.If you have any questions about the topics discussed in this episode of Around the Workstand or if you have ideas for new topics we can cover, schedule a time to meet with Mark Still here or email mark.s@works...

We often get wrapped up in the day-to-day, putting out fires type activities, and we don't want this to sound preachy but, cycling competes with other consumer goods for attention and dollars so bike shops that don't stay top of mind with the shoppers who have already done business with them are at a disadvantage but it doesn't have to be that way.Sometimes I'm sure we all wish it weren't this way, there is a lot of communication but people who make meaningful purchases receive communication from the stores they shop with. So today's question is, are you communicating with your key customers in the way Home Depot, Best Buy, and Nordstroms are?Importance of regular outreach - not just during major promotional periods. Busy season or not, consistent outreach yields better results than only communicating when you want to sell something.How?Social - use an 80/20 or 90/10 rule - 90% engaging, interesting, community info - 10% promotionalPhysical events - be at the places your customers are just to be thereTransactional emails - reach out based on the products and services your customers purchased from you - want to try our WorkstandIQ Loyalty program? Mention this episode and get 6 months free! Be sure to email your questions to podcast@workstand.com. We read all emails sent and we look forward to hearing from you.If you're a Workstand client with questions about your subscription, email support@workstand.com or call 303-527-0676 x 1. If you are not currently a Workstand client with questions about how our programs work, email info@workstand.com.Find Us on LinkedInRyan Atkinson, President + Co-OwnerSuzie Livingston, Marketing + CommunicationsMark Still, Business DevelopmentWe also publish Around the Workstand on our YouTube channel if you'd like to watch while you listen. Here is our Around the Workstand playlist.If you have any questions about the topics discussed in this episode of Around the Workstand or if you have ideas for new topics we can cover, schedule a time to meet with Mark Still here or email mark.s@works...

Suzie is under the weather this week so Ryan and Mark take on recent issues affecting the retail bicycle landscape. We hope you feel better soon, Suzie!Law firm focused on electric bike injuriesElectric Bike Library Content - included in all Workstand website subscriptionsPremium Electric Bike Content - included in our Marketing Subscription, available to all Workstand website clients for $400 per campaign.Learn about People for Bikeshttps://www.peopleforbikes.org/NBDA Retailer & Supplier Best Practices panel discussions are worth checking out!We are gathering data on bike shops to understand the market. We want to know for sure how many bike shops are operating.Greed - why have some suppliers and retailers characterized themselves as greedy during the COVID-19 pandemic?Ryan's LinkedIn post of a BBC report from 1997Be sure to email your questions to podcast@workstand.com. We read all emails sent and we look forward to hearing from you.If you're a Workstand client with questions about your subscription, email support@workstand.com or call 303-527-0676 x 1. If you are not currently a Workstand client with questions about how our programs work, email info@workstand.com.Find Us on LinkedInRyan Atkinson, President + Co-OwnerSuzie Livingston, Marketing + CommunicationsMark Still, Business DevelopmentWe also publish Around the Workstand on our YouTube channel if you'd like to watch while you listen. Here is our Around the Workstand playlist.If you have any questions about the topics discussed in this episode of Around the Workstand or if you have ideas for new topics we can cover, schedule a time to meet with Mark Still here or email mark.s@works...

Tips for making your website your own. The closer your website aligns with your in-store presentation, the better. Shoppers generally meet your website before they visit the store so take an honest look at your site and answer the following question - is your website what you want to present to potential customers? Is it what you wouldn't say to them if they were in your store? Working with the included templates and theme editorThere are 7 templates to start withAdd your logo and set your brand colorsLocal photos - you do not need a professional photographerLocal content - where to ride, staff, history, unique value propositionOur Help Center has great tips and instruction and our Client Success Team can guide and train you in making updatesPremium Themes - here's something new we've come up withBased on our popular Premium Content PackagesSemi-custom themes for a reasonable investment of $1,499 and can be completed in a week or lessMany to choose from with additional designs added each quarterFull Custom Design - as unique as your businessDesign and content planningLet your imagination run wild - take inspiration from other industries, websites, print, nature, anythingProject costs start around $3,000 and generally land between $4,000 - $8,000 (can be higher) and typically take 6 -8 weeks to completeBe sure to email your questions to podcast@workstand.com. We read all emails sent and we look forward to hearing from you.If you're a Workstand client with questions about your subscription, email support@workstand.com or call 303-527-0676 x 1. If you are not currently a Workstand client with questions about how our programs work, email info@workstand.com.Find Us on LinkedInRyan Atkinson, President + Co-OwnerSuzie Livingston, Marketing + CommunicationsMark Still, Business DevelopmentWe also publish Around the Workstand on our YouTube channel if you'd like to watch while you listen. Here is our Around the Workstand playlist.If you have any questions about the topics discussed in this episode of Around the Workstand or if you have ideas for new topics we can cover, schedule a time to meet with Mark Still here or email mark.s@works...

Welcome Around the Workstand!Summit - we met as a team recentlyBig characters. Great culture.Aligned behind our purposeAwesome leadership teamIndustry talkTrek D2C announcementExpected evolutionSeems to be a relatively well thought out programUnknown impactPlaybook - Have a great digital strategyMore important than everWe've got you covered on technology and marketingJune online resultsPlatform flat overallDriven by Google advertisers and bike salesTypical dealer down 8%Site visits see continued growth over 2023 but slowingOrder volume remains down 13%Offset by - Average order value up 16% compared to 2023As expected strongest click and collect performance41% of ordersRoughly at 2019 levelsDown from COVID highs of 60%Sign that the typical dealers are getting store traffic from ordersCollision conference in COAI was everywhereClearly going to be impactful on businessZero click search one of first areas of impactBe sure to email your questions to podcast@workstand.com. We read all emails sent and we look forward to hearing from you.If you're a Workstand client with questions about your subscription, email support@workstand.com or call 303-527-0676 x 1. If you are not currently a Workstand client with questions about how our programs work, email info@workstand.com.Find Us on LinkedInRyan Atkinson, President + Co-OwnerSuzie Livingston, Marketing + CommunicationsMark Still, Business DevelopmentWe also publish Around the Workstand on our YouTube channel if you'd like to watch while you listen. Here is our Around the Workstand playlist.If you have any questions about the topics discussed in this episode of Around the Workstand or if you have ideas for new topics we can cover, schedule a time to meet with Mark Still here or email mark.s@works...

As a fully remote company, Workstand teams try to get together in person once or twice yearly. This week is one of those times and our Client Services Team - Client Success, Catalog, and Business Development - will be meeting in Boulder, CO. We may be a little slower to respond than usual but it's for a good cause. Weeks such as these are always full of learning moments and great information that we take back to the clients we serve so we thank you for being patient during any inconvenience while we work to improve the services we provide.Here's what Suzie and Mark talk about in today's episode.Data dive - we gave you these stats, but what does that mean for you? -Google search trends-Strong electric bike salesSome report sales down - some report sales upWhat's working?-Good website management -Email Marketing-Google AdsBe sure to email your questions to podcast@workstand.com. We read all emails sent and we look forward to hearing from you.If you're a Workstand client with questions about your subscription, email support@workstand.com or call 303-527-0676 x 1. If you are not currently a Workstand client with questions about how our programs work, email info@workstand.com.Find Us on LinkedInRyan Atkinson, President + Co-OwnerSuzie Livingston, Marketing + CommunicationsMark Still, Business DevelopmentWe also publish Around the Workstand on our YouTube channel if you'd like to watch while you listen. Here is our Around the Workstand playlist.If you have any questions about the topics discussed in this episode of Around the Workstand or if you have ideas for new topics we can cover, schedule a time to meet with Mark Still here or email mark.s@works...

In this engaging episode, we dive into various topics from celebrating Pride Month to insights from the NBDA Retailer Summit. The conversation starts with a lively discussion about attending a drag show during Pride Month and the experience of embracing gender expression. The focus then shifts to the NBDA Retailer Summit, highlighting the successful collaboration between suppliers and retailers, with a key emphasis on financial competency and the importance of selling online.NBDA Retailer SummitGreat support from suppliers, almost half of the attendeesRetailers of all sizesLongtime supporters, plenty of fresh facesAbout half of the presentations were from retailersLearning from each otherThemes; understanding finances and selling online (all in D2C business)My presentation on how suppliers think about retailers in the digital spaceStanding room onlyGood questionsA couple of dealers want to sign up based on the informationMay platform resultsOrder volume across the Workstand platform was -14% for the month, the slowest performance of an already soft spring selling season.Online bike sales however drove up average order value, resulting in total platform sales being +2%.Sessions and pageviews continue their strong performance, indicating that consumers are shopping. Our traffic data aligns with Google search volume which has been reliably high this spring and steadily rose during May. A bright spot for the month is the typical retailer having their best month of the year, being only -2% for the month compared to -7% in April. Still lagging behind the top performers. Electric bikes onlineI mentioned online bike sales earlier. It's worth calling attention to electric bikes. Year-over-year online unit sales growth for e-bikes in April/May 2024 is strong at 60% relative to 2023. Electric bike buyers seem to be very comfortable buying their bikes online. We have total industry sales results from PeopleForBikes from Q1. While only about 2% of e-bikes sold by bike shops in Q1 2024 were sold online, the annual growth rate of 45% indicates it is outpacing total IBD electric bike sales - reinforcing that same point about consumers buying these bikes online. Lauren on the NBDA podcastLauren did a great job speaking to why the work of helping bike shops means so much to her and how that informs the work her department does.Be sure to email your questions to podcast@workstand.com. We read all emails sent and we look forward to hearing from you.If you're a Workstand client with questions about your subscription, email support@workstand.com or call 303-527-0676 x 1. If you are not currently a Workstand client with questions about how our programs work, email info@workstand.com.Find Us on LinkedInRyan Atkinson, President + Co-OwnerSuzie Livingston, Marketing + CommunicationsMark Still, Business DevelopmentWe also publish Around the Workstand on our YouTube channel if you'd like to watch while you listen. Here is our Around the Workstand playlist.If you have any questions about the topics discussed in this episode of Around the Workstand or if you have ideas for new topics we can cover, schedule a time to meet with Mark Still here or email mark.s@works...

During the episode where we tried to answer some common questions in a straightforward manner, one of those questions concerned the idea of what makes a good website homepage. We've been thinking about that since the episode and today, we want to help boil that answer down to a base level so that everyone can have the tools to identify good content.This goes for websites, emails, and all sorts of marketing and communications really but the primary question to ask is ‘Am I answering a question or solving a problem?'We often talk about how all shopping today starts with search. You want a thing or need a service so you search for that thing or service. SEO best practices suggest the content on your website will perform the best when/if it provides good results for those search queries - in other words, do you have those things on your website, do you offer those services? If the answer is yes, do those things exist in such a way as to be obvious and accessible to the searcher?If someone walked into your store and did a quick scan or lap, would they see the same things on your homepage? Your website is an extension of your brick-and-mortar business - it should look like it Make it easy for the searcher to find and consume the content and you make it easy for a search engine to recommend your website over and over again.You might be asking yourself, does that mean that every single image or piece of content have to answer questions in this way? What about my blog? What about my Tuesday night worlds recap? What about the 1,000-word how-to article about rebuilding 8-speed Campy shifters? Just think about the utility of your content to the people you'd most likely hope to have in your store. Irrelevant content does nothing to help and can even hurt as a search engine will see that nobody uses it or worse, finds it and bounces away quickly.Be sure to email your questions to podcast@workstand.com. We read all emails sent and we look forward to hearing from you.If you're a Workstand client with questions about your subscription, email support@workstand.com or call 303-527-0676 x 1. If you are not currently a Workstand client with questions about how our programs work, email info@workstand.com.Find Us on LinkedInRyan Atkinson, President + Co-OwnerSuzie Livingston, Marketing + CommunicationsMark Still, Business DevelopmentWe also publish Around the Workstand on our YouTube channel if you'd like to watch while you listen. Here is our Around the Workstand playlist.If you have any questions about the topics discussed in this episode of Around the Workstand or if you have ideas for new topics we can cover, schedule a time to meet with Mark Still here or email mark.s@works...

Look back at April data and help share some actionable items for helping retailers capture more business Ryan was back in Colorado last week and saw a lot of our team based out of there. We did a pinball happy hour on Thursday, a gravel ride on Friday, and went to the Supercross race in Denver on Saturday. We are stoked about the big software enhancement we released last week. The product detail pages now have a super modern visual interface for customers to select size and color variations. The shopping experience is comparable to REI. We expect to see an increase in add to cart rates just in time for summer website traffic. Looking at the bike industry, most retailers and suppliers are putting a lot of weight on the market performance in May. The spring was pretty erratic and we're looking for stability entering the summer.Promising indicators coming out of April.Google search volume for bike shops has been steadily growing on an expected seasonal trend after a slowdown in March.Google search volume for “best bike” was at the highest level in the last 18 months in the first week in May. This is great news about consumer demand but it's also noteworthy that volume for this term is outpacing “bike shop”. This consumer shift to online shopping is continuing - it isn't going to retreat after COVID. The long term trend is holding, growing about 1% share of total retail sales every year. April website traffic for bike shops using Workstand was up 9% over March and up 11% compared to last year.Average Order Value online in April was up 12.5% compared to last year as more consumers are buying bikes online.Paying attention to headlines about supplier financial health. Obviously Trek's cutbacks earlier this year were eye opening but I trust that their leadership team is more than capable of managing through the situation. The news about Kona was more troubling because the company is up for sale. Kona is an important brand for our customers and I'm hoping that the right buyer comes in and stabilizes the company.What's coming up next NBDA webinar with Suzie and Ryan this FridayRyan attending the NBDA Retailer Summit next weekClient Success Summit in June Be sure to email your questions to podcast@workstand.com. We read all emails sent and we look forward to hearing from you.If you're a Workstand client with questions about your subscription, email support@workstand.com or call 303-527-0676 x 1. If you are not currently a Workstand client with questions about how our programs work, email info@workstand.com.Find Us on LinkedInRyan Atkinson, President + Co-OwnerSuzie Livingston, Marketing + CommunicationsMark Still, Business DevelopmentWe also publish Around the Workstand on our YouTube channel if you'd like to watch while you listen. Here is our Around the Workstand playlist.If you have any questions about the topics discussed in this episode of Around the Workstand or if you have ideas for new topics we can cover, schedule a time to meet with Mark Still here or email mark.s@works...

There are many things in life where clear-cut answers are difficult to come by. Websites and marketing certainly fall into this category. Do you ever wish someone would just tell you the answers? We will.Today, based on our own experience - even if you only consider us, Suzie and Mark, that is a combined 20 years here at Workstand working with bicycle retailers all over North America - and with as little bias as we can muster, we'll just tell you the answers to some common yet confusing questions we often hear.Direct and simple, ready?The one we hear the most often - SEO - how can I do better in search?I'm a local business, why should I sell online? I want people to come to my store and I don't want to encourage them to shop online.Why should I pay for ads? Why should I pay Workstand to run my ads?Does my homepage look good? Is my homepage effective? We don't hear these questions often enough.

Ryan joins Suzie and Mark for our monthly industry update. This time around, it's also a quarterly update and we look at results and trends thus far in 2024. Ryan tells us about the Bicycle Leadership Conference (BLC) he recently attended and where his travels will take him in the coming months on behalf of all at Workstand.BLC300 bicycle industry leaders in attendance Pragmatic about inventory and optimistic outlook Inventory situation, talking heads too critical of bike suppliersStrong consumer sales paired with dealer Just In Time (JIT) orders means wholesale velocity is picking upElectric bike maturing, growth in transportationData presentationOutstanding service award - Ryan accepts an award on behalf of Workstand! Yay us.Q1Ecommerce growth +10% across our platform, February strongest at approximately 22% YoYOrder volume off, with Average Order Volume up double digitsBike discounts driving sales, especially from Specialized (big traffic increase)Overall traffic is up every month in Q1Top performers still driving, typical dealer -3% for the quarterGoogle Search IndexGeneral consumer interest in bikes steady with last yearSpecifically “bike shop” is a bit softer YTDThat has been the general trend, but learn more as the season develops when “bike shop” volume increasesAll search volume has been spiking dramatically on March weekendIt's important to win search, must have products online as consumers shift away from channel-specific searchElectric bike search volume outperforming general termsMore travel for Ryan and teamOur team at Sea Otter meeting with suppliers - look for Matt Lolli and Chris Gardner from our Supplier TeamSpeaking at NBDA retailer summit in MayCollision Technology Summit in JuneQuestions this week:Q: When will the Workstand POS be able to replace Lightspeed?That's not our goal but ...For many retailers it can today, even if some of the features are lean we are enhancing them rapidlyPerfect fit for our initial target market, merchants with a more outdated POSQ: Do I have to pay for Google Ads to show up in local search results?No. Your product pages and location pages in particular are optimized for organic and if you maintain your website properly then the content you create should perform well.Be sure to email your questions to podcast@workstand.com. We read all emails sent and we look forward to hearing from you.If you're a Workstand client with questions about your subscription, email support@workstand.com or call 303-527-0676 x 1. If you are not currently a Workstand client with questions about how our programs work, email info@workstand.com.Find Us on LinkedInRyan Atkinson, President + Co-OwnerSuzie Livingston, Marketing + CommunicationsMark Still, Business DevelopmentWe also publish Around the Workstand on our YouTube channel if you'd like to watch while you listen. Here is our Around the Workstand playlist.If you have any questions about the topics discussed in this episode of Around the Workstand or if you have ideas for new topics we can cover, schedule a time to meet with Mark Still here or email mark.s@works...

We talk a lot about marketing and selling by way of great websites, Google Ads, email marketing, and more but this week is different. This week we want to point out that stores shouldn't hard sell all the time. One of the best things a store can do to build long-term value within their community is to meet consumers where they are and help them find value in bikes, riding, and being a part of a healthy and fun-oriented community. That means that in addition to catalog-enabled, commerce-focused websites, merchants should be offering content aimed at helping riders get the most out of their bikes and the bike riding community. Workstand offers so much to help with that! Library pages, brand-supported landing pages, Premium Content Packages, and easy tools to build whatever type of page content is needed. Winning search starts with providing content your customers (and prospective customers) find valuable. Sales follow.Be sure to email your questions to podcast@workstand.com. We read all emails sent and we look forward to hearing from you.If you're a Workstand client with questions about your subscription, email support@workstand.com or call 303-527-0676 x 1. If you are not currently a Workstand client with questions about how our programs work, email info@workstand.com.Find Us on LinkedInRyan Atkinson, President + Co-OwnerSuzie Livingston, Marketing + CommunicationsMark Still, Business DevelopmentWe also publish Around the Workstand on our YouTube channel if you'd like to watch while you listen. Here is our Around the Workstand playlist.If you have any questions about the topics discussed in this episode of Around the Workstand or if you have ideas for new topics we can cover, schedule a time to meet with Mark Still here or email mark.s@works...

The band is back together! Ryan is back and will join us each month to share key takeaways from current inventory data,  talk about big-picture topics in our industry, and answer your questions.Higher total sales amounts (by the dollar) in 2023 but lower total unit salesThe most recent report from PeopleForBikes provided some summary information about 2023. Last year's market value was nearly $1 billion over pre-pandemic markets. A lot of people rightly point to the dollar growth coming from a higher average selling price, meaning dollar growth is outpacing units. 4% decrease compared to 2022 but a 7% increase over 2019 Electric bikes now make up 20% of total bike sales.What's happening now?Look at more recent data, we're paying careful attention to the December through February data. Important key metrics have turned the corner across the network. Total online sales are up about 11% and site traffic is up about 10%. Most of 2023 was down relative to the prior 12 months but that trajectory is changing.What are the areas of growth in our industry? What's doing well?A lot of the growth we're seeing is coming from bikes - largely electric, 29" mountain, and sport/performance road. Heavy discounts in those categories is achieving the intended result of increasing total dollar sales volume.Interestingly, discounts in sport/performance road are actually driving up the ASP for bikes in the category. But who's doing well?While the largest dealers continue to drive most of our sales volume, in February we saw the first significant uptick for the small and medium sized retailers. Crystal ball time - how is 2024 looking? Can we make any predictions? Sizing up the IBD channel right now suggests that 2024 is going to be a tough year. Google Search Data, ridership data, and the sales of consumables like chains and nutrition indicate that people are interested in and riding bikes. Retailers on the whole are running their businesses pragmatically and relying on just in time ordering to stay flexible. Okay, you've taken us through a number of ups and downs…how can retailers take action to make a positive impact on their sales? My one piece of advice to our customers is to stay very active with your marketing. Be sure to email your questions to podcast@workstand.com. We read all emails sent and we look forward to hearing from you.If you're a Workstand client with questions about your subscription, email support@workstand.com or call 303-527-0676 x 1. If you are not currently a Workstand client with questions about how our programs work, email info@workstand.com.Find Us on LinkedInRyan Atkinson, President + Co-OwnerSuzie Livingston, Marketing + CommunicationsMark Still, Business DevelopmentWe also publish Around the Workstand on our YouTube channel if you'd like to watch while you listen. Here is our Around the Workstand playlist.If you have any questions about the topics discussed in this episode of Around the Workstand or if you have ideas for new topics we can cover, schedule a time to meet with Mark Still here or email mark.s@works...

In this engaging episode, we had a lively conversation with Julie Walsh, our marketing strategist at WorkStand, discussing the Spring Marketing Playbook. Julie shared insightful tips and tricks for preparing your business for the spring selling season. We delved into the importance of cleaning up your website, updating settings, and ensuring a fresh, spring-like feel to attract customers. Recommendations included activating the shopping cart feature and utilizing Google Local Shopping Ads to boost sales.https://blog.workstand.com/spring-2024-marketing-playbookhttps://workstand.com/help/google-shoppingWe touched on the significance of automated post-purchase email campaigns and maintaining consistent communication with customers through newsletters and engaging social media content. Julie emphasized the value of simplifying content, making it visually appealing, and ensuring it aligns with the brand's personality.Additionally, we explored the role of incorporating brand content, such as product launches or collaborations, to enhance your website's appeal and keep customers informed about new arrivals. The conversation highlighted the ease of implementing pre-designed content to give your website a fresh look without overwhelming yourself with intricate details.As we wrapped up, we encouraged listeners to explore the available resources on our website, engage with our marketing agency for personalized guidance, and stay tuned for future episodes where we'll have our President, Ryan, back to share his industry insights. Julie's expertise and practical advice provided a comprehensive guide to revamping your marketing strategy for the upcoming season.If you're a current Workstand client with questions about your subscription, reach out to support@workstand.com or call 303-527-0676 x 1. If you are not currently a Workstand client with questions about how our programs work, email info@workstand.com and we'll gladly show you around.Find Us on LinkedInRyan Atkinson, President + Co-OwnerSuzie Livingston, Marketing + CommunicationsMark Still, Business DevelopmentWe also publish Around the Workstand on our YouTube channel if you'd like to watch while you listen. Here is our Around the Workstand playlist.If you have any questions about the topics discussed in this episode of Around the Workstand or if you have ideas for new topics we can cover, schedule a time to meet with Mark Still here or email mark.s@workstand.com.#email marketing #marketing #bikeshopwebsites #merchandising #bikeshoppointofsale

Workstand was invited to present this week at the NBDA P2 Group meeting. We were both there along with Lauren Webb, our Agency Director, and Matt Viara, our Paid Search Team Manager, and we talked about ways to improve ecommerce performance. There were some great questions and conversations so we thought we'd hit the highlights of that meeting today.Custom Websites - it's about more than just designContent PlanningOrganic SearchPaid Search DestinationSales metric improvementsAverage Order ValueRevenue Per SessionConversion RateIn-store traffic and salesData ManagementWhat if my Point of Sale data isn't great?Would it make more sense to manage website inventory manually?Does all that supplier data clutter up the shopping experience?Point of SaleWhy did we build ours and who do we expect will use it?POS doesn't have to be complicated.Tech Tip: If you're already a Workstand website client, our POS features are live in your admin now. Take a look, particularly at how simply an in-store sale can be yet how powerful with all of your suppliers on tap. Check out your Template Publisher and Theme Editor to personalize your look. Let's talk about custom if you want to go from personalized to customized. Finally, how are you performing relative to those metrics we talked about? If you're a current Workstand client with questions about your subscription, reach out to support@workstand.com or call 303-527-0676 x 1. If you are not currently a Workstand client with questions about how our programs work, email info@workstand.com and we'll gladly show you around.Find Us on LinkedInRyan Atkinson, President + Co-OwnerSuzie Livingston, Marketing + CommunicationsMark Still, Business DevelopmentWe also publish Around the Workstand on our YouTube channel if you'd like to watch while you listen. Here is our Around the Workstand playlist.If you have any questions about the topics discussed in this episode of Around the Workstand or if you have ideas for new topics we can cover, schedule a time to meet with Mark Still here or email mark.s@workstand.com.#email marketing #marketing #bikeshopwebsites #merchandising #bikeshoppointofsale

The beginning of the New Year is always a time of reflection, goal setting, and transformation. It's a great time to look at your website the same you may be looking at your life, career, fitness, etc.We can break this process down into 5 different phases:Step 1: Goal settingStep 2: ReviewStep 3: PlanStep 4: TrainStep 5: Promote Goal settingLook over your sales, marketing, processes, and important areas of your business to set attainable goals for 2024/2025.Sales growth, category growth, marketing performance, marketing cadence, add-on sales.DELEGATE - get multiple opinions, don't be afraid to get creative.Review your website  - this can seem like a like but if we focus on your website as the place to ground your goals, everything else can work around it. You'll have an accurate representation of your business, an effective link destination, and a place to attract new customers while you sleep/work in your store, etc.Look and feelCatalog MerchandisingServicesCommunity, staff, mission, etc. - what's important to you, the fun stuff, what sets you apartThe shopping processPlan - break up this work into smaller pieces Reach out for help - your team, customers, friends, US!Tip: start with the homepage - this can help guide the rest of your decisions or areas of focus.Train - make sure your whole team is on board and has the tools/knowledge to help you achieve your goals.Promote - you did all this work, you set the goals, and you're motivated to bring in new business - now take an active role in growing your business.Build an easy-to-follow marketing schedule Utilize tools you're comfortable with but also take this opportunity to try new technology, services, and outletsTraditional email marketing, social media, automated email marketing, google ads/local listings Tech tip: Leverage pre-built content from the libraryWorking on, revamping, or redesigning your website can be overwhelming when you're learning but a great way to lighten your load is by using complementary content.Use the structure, the images, or the inspiration - swap out what doesn't fit your business and your goals.If you're a current Workstand client with questions about your subscription, reach out to support@workstand.com or call 303-527-0676 x 1. If you are not currently a Workstand client with questions about how our programs work, email info@workstand.com and we'll gladly show you around.Find Us on LinkedInRyan Atkinson, President + Co-OwnerSuzie Livingston, Marketing + CommunicationsMark Still, Business DevelopmentWe also publish Around the Workstand on our YouTube channel if you'd like to watch while you listen. Here is our Around the Workstand playlist.If you have any questions about the topics discussed in this episode of Around the Workstand or if you have ideas for new topics we can cover, schedule a time to meet with Mark Still here or email mark.s@workstand.com.#email marketing #marketing #bikeshopwebsites #merchandising #bikeshoppointofsale

Welcome to a new year! It's the beginning of our 25th Anniversary as a company.Fraud is a constant topic of concern for our merchants. Just because Christmas has passed doesn't mean there isn't still potential for chargebacks related to those sales. Coming out of a heavy holiday sales season, let's look at how you can protect your business without losing too many sales going forward. How can you document your processes and support your team in a way that ensures the best chance of dealing with fraud effectively?Here's our Limiting Fraud Help Center ArticleCommon types of fraudStolen cards/card numbersReturns of altered productsFriendly Fraud - it isn't reallyUnderstanding the landscape and the risk - it's not all bad, almost all transactions are legitimateHow your ecommerce setup can help or contribute to fraudulent transactionsJust because an order makes it through Stripe, PayPal, or any provider doesn't mean it is guaranteed to be a legitimate transactionWhat to look for in orders that should make you suspiciousWhat to do if suspect an order is fraudulentGoogle the addressCall the phone numberOrders for pick up in-store can be fraud tooProcess for verifying orders/identityDocument and display your proceduresSupport your staff if you want them to support youCredit card processor/gateway fraud measures and notifications vs Workstand's own effortsMerchants are ultimately responsible and left holding the bagAsk for help. There is nothing we or any provider can do to prevent 100% of the fraud or guarantee an order is legitimate but we will review orders with you, and share insight based on our experience.Tech Tip: Determine your procedures for dealing with fraud and document it. Train your team on those procedures and support them in dealing with customers. Remember, they may be dealing with brazen criminals and that isn't easy. If they don't feel like the owner and management have their back, there isn't much incentive to uphold the procedures.What's coming up next? What's new for 2024? Our marketing packages have been enhanced to deliver more value, new Google local ads management packageIf you're a current Workstand client with questions about your subscription, reach out to support@workstand.com or call 303-527-0676 x 1. If you are not currently a Workstand client with questions about how our programs work, email info@workstand.com and we'll gladly show you around.Find Us on LinkedInRyan Atkinson, President + Co-OwnerSuzie Livingston, Marketing + CommunicationsMark Still, Business DevelopmentWe also publish Around the Workstand on our YouTube channel if you'd like to watch while you listen. Here is our Around the Workstand playlist.If you have any questions about the topics discussed in this episode of Around the Workstand or if you have ideas for new topics we can cover, schedule a time to meet with Mark Still here or email mark.s@workstand.com.#email marketing #marketing #bikeshopwebsites #merchandising #bikeshoppointofsale

Barbara Wiesner has been with Workstand for nearly 18 years. She knows more of our clients and more of our clients know her than anyone else who works at Workstand. Barbara has done a little bit of everything at the company, from the relatively early SmartEtailing days until today, she is a leader who is adept at helping both our teams and our clients succeed.Remember all those meetings at Interbike? Barbara does. She met with clients for years and helped wrangle all that trade show madness to ensure we were able to visit, face to face, with as many SmartEtailing/Workstand merchants as possible.What would Workstand today be like without Barbara? Well, let's all be glad we haven't had to find out.See you around the Workstand!If you're a current Workstand client with questions about your subscription, reach out to support@workstand.com or call 303-527-0676 x 1. If you are not currently a Workstand client with questions about how our programs work, email info@workstand.com and we'll gladly show you around.Find Us on LinkedInRyan Atkinson, President + Co-OwnerSuzie Livingston, Marketing + CommunicationsMark Still, Business DevelopmentWe also publish Around the Workstand on our YouTube channel if you'd like to watch while you listen. Here is our Around the Workstand playlist.If you have any questions about the topics discussed in this episode of Around the Workstand or if you have ideas for new topics we can cover, schedule a time to meet with Mark Still here or email mark.s@workstand.com.#email marketing #marketing #bikeshopwebsites #merchandising #bikeshoppointofsale

Suzie got a new bike and other completely expected events. We're in the final days before the big holiday. Be sure your website is ready for last-minute shoppers.I bought a bike from my local bike shop! Happy holidays to me.Just like Workstand, I don't play favorites…https://workstand.com/request-a-brandOther brand updates in our monthly update blog + quarterly brands and supplier newsletter Final holiday push ideasLast minute gifts Gifts in store and ready to pick up todayStaff picksGifts under $50/$25Gifts to show your love - small, safety-oriented stocking stuffers - lights, bells, mirrors, fun reflective items Kids' bikes Make sure you have your post-holiday plan in placeLots of News Years and winter complimentary content is live in your page libraryResolutions, winter riding, snow sports What's next from Around the WorkstandClient Success Team leader, Barbara Wiesner will join us next week, December 19th.Off the 26th and 2ndWe'll see you again on January 9th!Tech Tip: Financing options - the option to budget a large purchase can often be the difference between checking out and abandoning the cart. Use Klarna and/or PayPal financing to raise your conversion rate and average order value.Catalog sections - be sure you're getting the results you expect and don't over do it with selection parameters.If you're a current Workstand client with questions about your subscription, reach out to support@workstand.com or call 303-527-0676 x 1. If you are not currently a Workstand client with questions about how our programs work, email info@workstand.com and we'll gladly show you around.Find Us on LinkedInRyan Atkinson, President + Co-OwnerSuzie Livingston, Marketing + CommunicationsMark Still, Business DevelopmentWe also publish Around the Workstand on our YouTube channel if you'd like to watch while you listen. Here is our Around the Workstand playlist.If you have any questions about the topics discussed in this episode of Around the Workstand or if you have ideas for new topics we can cover, schedule a time to meet with Mark Still here or email mark.s@workstand.com.#email marketing #marketing #bikeshopwebsites #merchandising #bikeshoppointofsale

Inventory visibility online - a quick primer - What is SEO and Organic Search and what is SEM and paid search?When we work with merchants to help grow sales, we think about two high-level ideas concerning website traffic - Organic/SEO and Paid Search/SEMOrganic/SEO is working on the website's content in order to be an attractive option for a search engine to choose when someone searches for a particular topic. It's what the website does to draw in traffic.Quality contentWhat represents your business, people, products, services, and community…Active management of the websiteHomepage merchandising - well-maintained websites perform well and are easy to navigate/shopHow often? Hero, monthly. The entire homepage, consider seasonally. Catalog maintenance - at least monthly?Ancillary, off-site activityGoogle My Business, Social platformsPaid Search/SEM is, as the name suggests, paid for so that a business has a better opportunity than Organic search to win a high-intent shopperWe primarily work in Google AdsProduct and/or Awareness focusI said two but those two together end up producing a third hybrid opportunity - free shopping ads on GoogleMust have your data so setting up Google Merchant Center is required and providing Google with a compliant product data feed is also required - luckily, your Workstand website does this for you.You have no control over the products that show or where they show up - Google algorithms handle all of thatTech Tip: Enable Google ShoppingSettings > Marketing > Google ShoppingDeal with the beast that is Google Merchant Center or let us helpIf you're a current Workstand client with questions about your subscription, reach out to support@workstand.com or call 303-527-0676 x 1. If you are not currently a Workstand client with questions about how our programs work, email info@workstand.com and we'll gladly show you around.Find Us on LinkedInRyan Atkinson, President + Co-OwnerSuzie Livingston, Marketing + CommunicationsMark Still, Business DevelopmentWe also publish Around the Workstand on our YouTube channel if you'd like to watch while you listen. Here is our Around the Workstand playlist.If you have any questions about the topics discussed in this episode of Around the Workstand or if you have ideas for new topics we can cover, schedule a time to meet with Mark Still here or email mark.s@workstand.com.#email marketing #marketing #bikeshopwebsites #merchandising #bikeshoppointofsale

How's the holiday selling season going? This is a good time to assess your success so far and make changes if needed.Feeling great! Sales have been strong.Perhaps no further sales or discounts are in orderKeep the website up to date, use a gift guide or homepage sections to call out what's available, but hold pricingHold all proactive marketing as is - do not decrease that activity as it's likely a large part of why things have gone well so farBe sure all external marketing has clear calls to action and paths back to your website. Social, email, print, et alDecide your hours heading into the final stretch and be sure they are updated on all platforms.Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Small Business Saturday were not so great. We need more!Get a sale configured and installed on your website now!POS pricing updatedProminent homepage messaging leaning on sale pricing, free add-ons, free shipping, upgrades, and anything that can spur actionFocus heavily on what is available in the store now for purchasePromote convenience. We have this now, ready for pickup. We will hold all purchases until December X, at 4 pm to help maintain the element of surpriseIncrease your proactive marketing effortsIf you're sending one promotional email each month, send two (or 4)Increase the frequency of social media postingBe sure all external marketing has clear calls to action and paths back to your website. Social, email, print, et alAssign someone to monitor and respond to all inquiries - phone, email, FB messenger, Instagram, TikTok messagesIncrease your paid ads budget and use that to reach more buyers with the intent to purchaseTech Tip: Get help. You know how you think of most home bike mechanic's work, right? Well, that's often how marketing looks when a busy business owner tries to learn a new thing in the busiest time of the year in hopes of somehow becoming a marketing expert overnight. The results often end up looking like that derailleur with the limit screws cranked down or missing, all jammed in the spokes with the chain hopelessly wedged between the chainrings and the frame. Let someone help you. Let us help you.If you're a current Workstand client with questions about your subscription, reach out to support@workstand.com or call 303-527-0676 x 1. If you are not currently a Workstand client with questions about how our programs work, email info@workstand.com and we'll gladly show you around.Find Us on LinkedInRyan Atkinson, President + Co-OwnerSuzie Livingston, Marketing + CommunicationsMark Still, Business DevelopmentWe also publish Around the Workstand on our YouTube channel if you'd like to watch while you listen. Here is our Around the Workstand playlist.If you have any questions about the topics discussed in this episode of Around the Workstand or if you have ideas for new topics we can cover, schedule a time to meet with Mark Still here or email mark.s@workstand.com.#email marketing #marketing #bikeshopwebsites #merchandising #bikeshoppointofsale

This week, we are discussing the upcoming holiday season and the importance of retailers preparing for it. We mention holidays such as Thanksgiving, Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Small Business Saturday. It's crucial for businesses to take action during this time, as there is a higher sales volume compared to other months. We highlight the high intent to buy during this season and the potential for increased conversion rates and revenue per session.To effectively prepare for the holiday season, we break down the discussion into categories of who, what, when, where, and how. Starting with the importance of seasonally relevant homepage merchandising, we emphasize the need to communicate who you are and why customers should shop with you. It's essential to have holiday content on your website, such as a gift guide or information about sales. Updating other sections of your website to be more seasonally relevant, like discussing winter bike maintenance, can also attract customers.Customers appreciate businesses that have consistent and clearly stated holiday hours and closures. Therefore, it's essential to update your website and other platforms like Google My Business and Facebook with accurate information. Providing a tech tip, we suggest using start and end dates to schedule content on the website, ensuring that the right content is displayed at the right time. For businesses needing assistance, we offer our help through our success team and agency subscriptions for website maintenance needs. We also note that we can help with one-time projects or temporary relief of duties, even if a business is not interested in a subscription. Businesses are encouraged to reach out to us for support, and we mention that all the information is available in our Help Center.In conclusion, we extend our wishes for a Happy Thanksgiving and express our willingness to see everyone around the work stand.If you're a current Workstand client with questions about your subscription, reach out to support@workstand.com or call 303-527-0676 x 1. If you are not currently a Workstand client with questions about how our programs work, email info@workstand.com and we'll gladly show you around.Find Us on LinkedInRyan Atkinson, President + Co-OwnerSuzie Livingston, Marketing + CommunicationsMark Still, Business DevelopmentWe also publish Around the Workstand on our YouTube channel if you'd like to watch while you listen. Here is our Around the Workstand playlist.If you have any questions about the topics discussed in this episode of Around the Workstand or if you have ideas for new topics we can cover, schedule a time to meet with Mark Still here or email mark.s@workstand.com.#email marketing #marketing #bikeshopwebsites #merchandising #bikeshoppointofsale

Let's get to the basics Around the Workstand - your website, what you're presenting to the shopping public, why it matters (search, conversion, credibility)Your website is the cornerstone of your marketing, the first thing most new customers see about your business, and how it is presented determines to a large extent what you will sell (or not sell) online AND in your store. Get it right!If you aren't displaying what matters to you, what value proposition your store offers, what services you offer, products consumers care about, you just can't win search and you can't matter to most consumers.The goal is to win searches - for every person who just decides to wander into a store and see what's there, there are hundreds or even thousands who never saw or considered a store because they have poor or no search visibility. Google matters.When consumers do find your website, will they be impressed and convinced of your professionalism? A catalog full of products with prices and availability BUT no way to purchase them is a gigantic roadblock and likely a red flag to shoppers. They won't just decide to drive down to your store to find out if they can buy what they want, they'll simply move on to a result that offers what they want in the way they want it.What to do. Ensure your website is shoppable in a sensible way. Categories grouped, navigation is simple and intuitive, catalog is accurate, services are clear, and pricing and availability are clear for everything you offer. All content should look good on all devices.Payment options and delivery options should be as plentiful as you can manage.Ask for help. Our Client Success team will help with training and pointing you in the right direction. Our Marketing Agency team will simply do the work for you.Complimentary site review - https://workstand.com/website-reviewTech Tip: I think today's tip is to do all that stuff we just talked about. Do it now. It will make you money.If you're a current Workstand client with questions about your subscription, reach out to support@workstand.com or call 303-527-0676 x 1. If you are not currently a Workstand client with questions about how our programs work, email info@workstand.com and we'll gladly show you around.Find Us on LinkedInRyan Atkinson, President + Co-OwnerSuzie Livingston, Marketing + CommunicationsMark Still, Business DevelopmentWe also publish Around the Workstand on our YouTube channel if you'd like to watch while you listen. Here is our Around the Workstand playlist.If you have any questions about the topics discussed in this episode of Around the Workstand or if you have ideas for new topics we can cover, schedule a time to meet with Mark Still here or email mark.s@workstand.com.#email marketing #marketing #bikeshopwebsites #merchandising #bikeshoppointofsale

Welcome back to our regular programming!If you haven't checked out our last 2 episodes with our guests Lauren and Alex, please do. They are fun and informative.Who would you like to hear from next? Which part of Workstand are you curious about? We'll do our best to get a guest to match.Content is coming out of our ears!All complimentary content is live in your Page LibraryHere's the How To video that explains where to find and how to install Library Content.Partner created content Trek Project One https://libpreview2.smartetailing.net/page.cfm?pageid=5148&contentType=1&preview=1Santa Cruz V10 - launches today Specialized Holiday Promotion - https://workstand.com/specialized-holiday-2023More on the way from Giant, Cannondale - keep an eye on your inbox!Tuesday marketing tip: Let's talk more about holidaysStart talking about it nowMake sure your products are easy to find - homepage sections (hero, product carousel, etc) google local listings, email marketing Not sure what to promote in marketing? If I came into your store looking for a gift, what would you recommend? Tech Tip(s): Using the complimentary library content - start and end dates, use them when and where to save time/mistakes - Google Local Listings!If you're a current Workstand client with questions about your subscription, reach out to support@workstand.com or call 303-527-0676 x 1. If you are not currently a Workstand client with questions about how our programs work, email info@workstand.com and we'll gladly show you around.Find Us on LinkedInRyan Atkinson, President + Co-OwnerSuzie Livingston, Marketing + CommunicationsMark Still, Business DevelopmentWe also publish Around the Workstand on our YouTube channel if you'd like to watch while you listen. Here is our Around the Workstand playlist.If you have any questions about the topics discussed in this episode of Around the Workstand or if you have ideas for new topics we can cover, schedule a time to meet with Mark Still here or email mark.s@workstand.com.#email marketing #marketing #bikeshopwebsites #merchandising #bikeshoppointofsale

This week we're joined by our Product Team Manager, Alex Slocum. Alex tells us about how he got into the world of bicycles and technology and how he ended up here at Workstand with us. We learn what a Product Team does and what the roles are in our Product Team along with how the team interacts with other parts of the company such as Development, Client Success, Marketing, and of course, our Leadership Team.Alex is a key figure in the development of our new Point of Sale features and in the ongoing development of our ecommerce platform and tools. The episode is another example of Alex's commitment to transparency and his openness to feedback and what becomes of it once his team receives it. We get into the genesis of these new features and how the progress we've made as we ready the official release compares to the goals set two years ago when it all began to take shape.Alex's creativity isn't confined to his days here at Workstand. He's a builder at heart and we get to hear about his love of fixing up cars, woodworking, creating scary Halloween costumes, and even sewing!Come meet Alex Slocum Around the Workstand!If you're a current Workstand client with questions about your subscription, reach out to support@workstand.com or call 303-527-0676 x 1. If you are not currently a Workstand client with questions about how our programs work, email info@workstand.com and we'll gladly show you around.Find Us on LinkedInRyan Atkinson, President + Co-OwnerSuzie Livingston, Marketing + CommunicationsMark Still, Business DevelopmentWe also publish Around the Workstand on our YouTube channel if you'd like to watch while you listen. Here is our Around the Workstand playlist.If you have any questions about the topics discussed in this episode of Around the Workstand or if you have ideas for new topics we can cover, schedule a time to meet with Mark Still here or email mark.s@workstand.com.#email marketing #marketing #bikeshopwebsites #merchandising #bikeshoppointofsale

We have a guest this week with us Around the Workstand. Lauren Webb, our Marketing Agency Director, is here to talk about her history working with bike shops, her team of 16 folks and the work they do with more than 400 Workstand merchants, and how local businesses can get ready for the holiday shopping season and thrive amongst all the choices choppers have at their disposal. Lauren advises listeners to start planning their direct mailers and creating a gift guide on their websites. We offer affordable options and have a creative team that can design custom content. We stress the importance of planning ahead to avoid last-minute stress. We introduce our homepage takeover package that promotes holiday content and can be used for as long as you want. We explain how it works well with our free or premium options and has a history of success.Holiday Homepage TakeoverPremium Gift GuideHoliday SaleLauren explained how we encourage retailers to consider Cyber Week promotions and in-store promotions for last-minute gifts rather than focusing on a single Cyber Day. We also encourage driving traffic to websites through social media, video content, emails, and Google ads. We mention the importance of properly setting up Google My Business and assure listeners that our team is here to help with these tasks.Lauren and the entire Marketing Agency team here at Workstand are ready to help in the holiday season and beyond. You can reach out to Lauren with questions at lauren.w@workstand.com to learn more about our marketing work with local bicycle retailers and you can learn more about our agency subscriptions and other services offered by her team.We'll see you Around the Workstand!If you're a current Workstand client with questions about your subscription, reach out to support@workstand.com or call 303-527-0676 x 1. If you are not currently a Workstand client with questions about how our programs work, email info@workstand.com and we'll gladly show you around.Find Us on LinkedInRyan Atkinson, President + Co-OwnerSuzie Livingston, Marketing + CommunicationsMark Still, Business DevelopmentWe also publish Around the Workstand on our YouTube channel if you'd like to watch while you listen. Here is our Around the Workstand playlist.If you have any questions about the topics discussed in this episode of Around the Workstand or if you have ideas for new topics we can cover, schedule a time to meet with Mark Still here or email mark.s@workstand.com.#email marketing #marketing #bikeshopwebsites #merchandising #bikeshoppointofsale

There is a lot going on Around the Workstand this week. Holiday marketing planning, Supplier Fulfillment, aka Drop Shipping, reminders, our partnership with Ride with GPS, and more!Fulfillment is included in all Professional subscriptionsHoliday marketing - just a little preview for our conversation with Lauren, director of our Agency team https://marketing.smartetailing.net/articles/2023-premium-holiday-marketing-packages-pg256.htmComplementary content in the library now - HolidaysOctober - gift guideNovember - mid-month promotions kick offDecember - holiday sale and/or last minute giftsRide with GPS partnership @ridewithgpsdotcom #ridewithgpshttps://workstand.com/ride-with-gpsto offer free personalized content directly on your websiteMultiple page layouts to choose from that are great for custom engagement and SEO Blog published this morning to compliment the Ride with GPS content - https://blog.workstand.com/ride-with-gpsLeverage your website to create riding experiences for your customersGreat link destination for email and social - direct new bike buyers to etc Tech Tip: Whatever you call it - Supplier Fulfillment, Drop Shipping, Direct Ship, letting suppliers pick, pack, and ship orders for you is one of those ‘why didn't I do this before' pro tips. If you aren't using it or aren't using it with all of your available suppliers, step one is gaining approval from each supplier. Step one is the hardest because, after that, our Client Success Team will help you get things dialed. So, approval with suppliers, payment methods, shipping methods, and understanding the process with each supplier. Advanced move: PPC/Paid ads targeting products your supplier can fulfill for you.If you're a current Workstand client with questions about your subscription, reach out to support@workstand.com or call 303-527-0676 x 1. If you are not currently a Workstand client with questions about how our programs work, email info@workstand.com and we'll gladly show you around.Find Us on LinkedInRyan Atkinson, President + Co-OwnerSuzie Livingston, Marketing + CommunicationsMark Still, Business DevelopmentWe also publish Around the Workstand on our YouTube channel if you'd like to watch while you listen. Here is our Around the Workstand playlist.If you have any questions about the topics discussed in this episode of Around the Workstand or if you have ideas for new topics we can cover, schedule a time to meet with Mark Still here or email mark.s@workstand.com.#email marketing #marketing #bikeshopwebsites #merchandising #bikeshoppointofsale

Winter is coming!Need marketing content to promote your snow sports categories? Let us know!New xc content up (came from a client request) - https://libpreview2.smartetailing.net/page.cfm?pageid=5134&contentType=1&preview=1Content available right now - Website > Page editor > Page Library > Snow Sport ContentSpeaking of Snow, remember that we offer a snow sports catalogDemo website with snow productsNBDA webinar with Ryan and Alex tomorrow - https://nbda.com/#!event/register/2023/10/11/workstand-commerce-software-explainedJoin Ryan and Alex for an informal presentation discussing details of Workstand's expanding capabilities and a live demo of new features. No boring PowerPoint slides, but lots of time for questions.Tech Tip: Temporary Homepage - the way our system works, it's possible to build a new page to be used as your homepage for things such as a holiday season homepage takeover - full disclosure, this is such a good idea that we sell projects to do this every holiday season - or to have summer and winter homepages for stores that sell bikes and ski gear, or for any other number of reasons that having a different homepage for a period of time can be beneficial.First, create a new page

It's still us! Same company, same team members - just a new name to match our growing capabilities. We've gotten some questions that suggest we weren't as clear as we could be about what changed and what didn't. Our Point of Sale offering is aimed at stores with no POS solution or with an outdated system. It'll certainly expand quickly over time but for the many stores with no or a poor POS system, get in touch with us now! Ryan has been out and about talking about our evolution as a company and our new POS features. You can see more of that in the NBDA podcast and the two-part PeopleForBikes, Inside the Outdoors podcast (Part 1 and Part 2) that Ryan was recently a guest on.Upcoming guest remindersAlex Slocum - ever wonder what it takes to build a software application like Workstand? Alex knows exactly what it takes and will tell us all about it and the path he's been on as we develop our Point of Sale offering.Lauren Webb - you know about the websites and POS products but did you know Workstand is also a full-service marketing agency? Lauren is our agency director and she'll give us some strategies and tactics to win at holiday marketing this year. We do this type of work for more than 400 Workstand merchants.Tech Tip: Discounts - we've talked a lot about the sales that brands have been having and we've started talking about holiday sales already too. If you're planning to offer promotions, now is a good time to take a look at our discounts tool as it has changed since last year. The help center walks through using both automatic discounts and discount codes and both are very useful tools for promotions. Side note: be sure to adjust your Google Merchant Center settings if any of your promos will affect your paid ads and if any of your holiday promos include changes to your shipping methods and rules.Snack question of the week - to pumpkin spice or to not pumpkin spice?If you're a current Workstand client with questions about your subscription, reach out to support@workstand.com or call 303-527-0676 x 1. If you are not currently a Workstand client with questions about how our programs work, email info@workstand.com and we'll gladly show you around.Find Us on LinkedInRyan Atkinson, President + Co-OwnerSuzie Livingston, Marketing + CommunicationsMark Still, Business DevelopmentWe also publish Around the Workstand on our YouTube channel if you'd like to watch while you listen. Here is our Around the Workstand playlist.If you have any questions about the topics discussed in this episode of Around the Workstand or if you have ideas for new topics we can cover, schedule a time to meet with Mark Still here or email mark.s@workstand.com.#email marketing #marketing #bikeshopwebsites #merchandising #bikeshoppointofsale

It's getting to be fall here Around the Workstand and we've got lots to talk about today related to fall marketing, new POS features, and upcoming guests from around Workstand, the company not the podcast. :) So, let's get to it!All POS features will be available to everyone in January 2024, until then, we're inviting a few merchants to be early entrants and beta testersYou can still schedule your demo even if you just have some general questions, with no commitmentsFor existing Workstand ecommerce clients, many of the POS features are already live in your Workstand Admin - take a look at Purchase Orders, Work Orders, In-Store SalesUpcoming episodes/guestsOctober guests include Alex Slocum and Lauren WebbFall riding marketing topics in the libraryCruise with your crewEnjoy Fall by bikeFall bike clearanceElectric Bike SafetyFresh premium content - fall clearance sale, get your ebike locally Tech Tip: Purchase Orders - if I were going to suggest one of our new POS features for a merchant to try out, it would be Purchase Orders because they play well with any existing POS system. POs could be the most eye-opening in that being able to ‘see' many different suppliers in one spot is very helpful when building POs. It's certainly still a work in progress but it's already quite powerful.If you're a current Workstand client with questions about your subscription, reach out to support@workstand.com or call 303-527-0676 x 1. If you are not currently a Workstand client with questions about how our programs work, email info@workstand.com and we'll gladly show you around.Find Us on LinkedInRyan Atkinson, President + Co-OwnerSuzie Livingston, Marketing + CommunicationsMark Still, Business DevelopmentWe also publish Around the Workstand on our YouTube channel if you'd like to watch while you listen. Here is our Around the Workstand playlist.If you have any questions about the topics discussed in this episode of Around the Workstand or if you have ideas for new topics we can cover, schedule a time to meet with Mark Still here or email mark.s@workstand.com.#email marketing #marketing #bikeshopwebsites #merchandising #bikeshoppointofsale

The response to our new company name has been wonderfully positive since we made the big announcement last week. We've scheduled dozens of demos of our new point of sale features with existing Workstand ecommerce merchants and brand new folks who don't work with us in any capacity ...yet!We've had some press in BR&IN.Blog post with our announcement video.Our Help Center has been updated.Remember, if you're curious about what we're doing, we would love to meet and show you our new POS features, our ecommerce capabilities, and our marketing offerings. Use the links below to request a demo meeting.The Tech Tip this week is to get in there and take a look at all the new in-store POS features that are already in your Workstand admin. We'd love your feedback!If you're an existing Workstand client, you can request a demo here.If you are not yet working with us at Workstand, you can request your demo here.Of course, this podcast got a new name too. We're moving away from Up Next and 10-Minute Tuesday and the podcast will now be known as Around the Workstand. We'll continue posting episodes weekly and we hope to bring in other Workstand teams to share what they are working on to ensure you know all the good stuff that's coming down the pipe.See you next week Around the Workstand!If you're a current Workstand client with questions about your subscription, reach out to support@workstand.com or call 303-527-0676 x 1. If you are not currently a Workstand client with questions about how our programs work, email info@workstand.com and we'll gladly show you around.Find Us on LinkedInRyan Atkinson, President + Co-OwnerSuzie Livingston, Marketing + CommunicationsMark Still, Business DevelopmentWe also publish Around the Workstand on our YouTube channel if you'd like to watch while you listen. Here is our Around the Workstand playlist.If you have any questions about the topics discussed in this episode of Around the Workstand or if you have ideas for new topics we can cover, schedule a time to meet with Mark Still here or email mark.s@workstand.com.#email marketing #marketing #bikeshopwebsites #merchandising #bikeshoppointofsale

We have exciting news to share. SmartEtailing has undergone a significant transformation and is now known as Workstand. Along with this name change, we have launched a new point-of-sale system that is aimed at the many bike shops with no point-of-sale or an outdated POS.Our new point-of-sale system is available on its own for in-store use and is also included in our existing e-commerce packages. This development addresses a gap in the market, where many shops either lack a point-of-sale system or are using outdated ones. Our goal is to provide a solution to these underserved businesses and contribute to their sustainability.The transition from SmartEtailing to Workstand signifies our commitment to modernization and becoming the heart of the bike business. With over 25 years in operation, we have built a trusted reputation within the industry, and we are excited to bring this cutting-edge software to the market.The development of our new features was a complex process, but we are confident that this system will enable bike shops to compete with larger retailers. By leveraging data and organizing information effectively, we have created a sleek and compelling system, offering tools for local merchants that rival industry giants like REI.We are implementing a freemium business model, where our point of sale system is available with no monthly subscription fee, making it affordable for bike shops to upgrade and streamline their operations. Our purpose is to assist and support the industry's health and the success of independent bike shops.We are dedicated to providing support to our customers through various channels, including a help center, live chat, email, and phone. We want to ensure that we earn your business and provide the help you need. We will be sharing more information about the changes via email, social media, blog posts, and our weekly podcasts. We are in an exciting time at Workstand, finally able to deliver on what our customers have been asking for. We encourage everyone to request a demo and see what Workstand is about. Stay tuned for more updates, and we look forward to seeing you Around the Workstand.Existing Workstand ecommerce merchants who'd like to learn more about our new point-of-sale features can schedule a demo here.Not yet a Workstand client? Schedule your demo here.If you're a current Workstand client with questions about your subscription, reach out to support@workstand.com or call 303-527-0676 x 1. If you are not currently a Workstand client with questions about how our programs work, email info@workstand.com and we'll gladly show you around.Find Us on LinkedInRyan Atkinson, President + Co-OwnerSuzie Livingston, Marketing + CommunicationsMark Still, Business DevelopmentWe also publish Around the Workstand on our YouTube channel if you'd like to watch while you listen. Here is our Around the Workstand playlist.If you have any questions about the topics discussed in this episode of Around the Workstand or if you have ideas for new topics we can cover, schedule a time to meet with Mark Still here or email mark.s@workstand.com.#email marketing #marketing #bikeshopwebsites #merchandising #bikeshoppointofsale

There's no denying here in Colorado, that the seasons are changing and fall is on its way.End-of-season sales are happening and other, not-so-pleasant things may be on the way as well.Be mindful of fraud. Criminals know that merchants can't pay as close attention to processes during the holiday season when it's hectic and many are employing seasonal workers. Double down on your processes and training to protect your business from this increased risk of fraud.Agency team check-in! Our Marketing Agency is quite busy as we head toward fall. Google Local Inventory and paid Google ads are helping them sell more bikes and gear. We're also helping many get their homepages back up to best practices for maximum user efficiency which always leads to better organic search performance a.k.a. SEO.Tech Tip: Order Workflow - If you haven't revisited your online order workflow lately, now is a great time to do that. These features can help optimize your staff's time and energy when dealing with orders from your website.Order Confirmation Page MessageOrder Notification EmailChoose the ‘from' email appropriatelyUse both top and bottom messagesEnable Supplier Fulfillment notification Record Store FulfillmentOrder Status and CommentsNote Comment to Customer vs. Internal CommentIf you're a current Workstand client with questions about your subscription, reach out to support@workstand.com or call 303-527-0676 x 1. If you are not currently a Workstand client with questions about how our programs work, email info@workstand.com and we'll gladly show you around.Find Us on LinkedInRyan Atkinson, President + Co-OwnerSuzie Livingston, Marketing + CommunicationsMark Still, Business DevelopmentWe also publish Around the Workstand on our YouTube channel if you'd like to watch while you listen. Here is our Around the Workstand playlist.If you have any questions about the topics discussed in this episode of Around the Workstand or if you have ideas for new topics we can cover, schedule a time to meet with Mark Still here or email mark.s@workstand.com.#email marketing #marketing #bikeshopwebsites #merchandising #bikeshoppointofsale

This week, we have a few topics we don't talk about very often but they are none the less quite helpful.Buy Local Now Yes, this is free to any bike shop - no SmartEtailing subscription requiredWhy do we offer this for free - is there a catch? Why should a retailer use the service? Compatible POS SystemsDid you know we will do a free website review for you?Just fill out this form and our Client Success team will take it from there.Audit the site and provide a list of suggested improvements and links to resources to help you complete those changesContent, best practices, accessibility As always, there's also help available if you want to delegate the workTech Tip:  Using URL Directories in Advanced Page Settings to more accurately describe your page contentResponsive pages, Form pages, LocationsChoices include - articles, buyers-guides, coupons, faq, jobs, events, and moreMakes pages just a little more dialed for search engineshttps://mark.smartetailing.net/about/about-the-bike-shop-pg145.htmIf you're a current Workstand client with questions about your subscription, reach out to support@workstand.com or call 303-527-0676 x 1. If you are not currently a Workstand client with questions about how our programs work, email info@workstand.com and we'll gladly show you around.Find Us on LinkedInRyan Atkinson, President + Co-OwnerSuzie Livingston, Marketing + CommunicationsMark Still, Business DevelopmentWe also publish Around the Workstand on our YouTube channel if you'd like to watch while you listen. Here is our Around the Workstand playlist.If you have any questions about the topics discussed in this episode of Around the Workstand or if you have ideas for new topics we can cover, schedule a time to meet with Mark Still here or email mark.s@workstand.com.#email marketing #marketing #bikeshopwebsites #merchandising #bikeshoppointofsale

Sorry about the little bit of static toward the end. New Santa Cruz bike launch today - complimentary content available, fill out the form and we'll update your website for you https://www.smartetailing.com/santa-cruz-skitch-2023Snow sports? You're probably receiving this product now - start making a plan for your websiteHomepage update, services, email + social marketing Consider our Snow Sports Catalog if you aren't already subscribingTech Tip: Google Calendar integration - the 4th most viewed How To video in the last month!If you already use a Google Calendar to manage events or rides or whatever, why not simply add that calendar to your website? It's easy.Bonus Tech Tip: Our new Risk Review notification.Eating some good food during a visit to Alabama!If you're a current Workstand client with questions about your subscription, reach out to support@workstand.com or call 303-527-0676 x 1. If you are not currently a Workstand client with questions about how our programs work, email info@workstand.com and we'll gladly show you around.Find Us on LinkedInRyan Atkinson, President + Co-OwnerSuzie Livingston, Marketing + CommunicationsMark Still, Business DevelopmentWe also publish Around the Workstand on our YouTube channel if you'd like to watch while you listen. Here is our Around the Workstand playlist.If you have any questions about the topics discussed in this episode of Around the Workstand or if you have ideas for new topics we can cover, schedule a time to meet with Mark Still here or email mark.s@workstand.com.#email marketing #marketing #bikeshopwebsites #merchandising #bikeshoppointofsale

Hard to believe we're already half way through August!We got lots of questions about our email last week!New electric bike content live in the library - E-bike accessoriesReally highlights the evolution of our complimentary contentUpdate to the optional Colorado Retail Delivery FeeTrek Supercaliber content live in the library We worked with Trek to create the content, although it did not become a trek connect retail marketing campaign, we do have it available for retailers to install to promote the bikes. Tech Tip: Catalog Sections and the View More… buttonDon't use that button link for anything else, you'll regret it!https://www.food.com/recipe/baked-mac-n-cheese-sriracha-505226If you're a current Workstand client with questions about your subscription, reach out to support@workstand.com or call 303-527-0676 x 1. If you are not currently a Workstand client with questions about how our programs work, email info@workstand.com and we'll gladly show you around.Find Us on LinkedInRyan Atkinson, President + Co-OwnerSuzie Livingston, Marketing + CommunicationsMark Still, Business DevelopmentWe also publish Around the Workstand on our YouTube channel if you'd like to watch while you listen. Here is our Around the Workstand playlist.If you have any questions about the topics discussed in this episode of Around the Workstand or if you have ideas for new topics we can cover, schedule a time to meet with Mark Still here or email mark.s@workstand.com.#email marketing #marketing #bikeshopwebsites #merchandising #bikeshoppointofsale

Happy Tuesday!Look out for our email about some exciting news coming soon!We talk a lot about marketing, good content, etc but there are suggested steps that make a difference so let's look at those so we don't inadvertently encourage you to get ahead of yourself.Commerce-enabled website in place and dialedWebsite actively managed - updated regularly, information helpful to your customersThis is when the content we so often speak of first comes inHelp your customers shop the way they want for the products they care aboutStay top of mind for your customers - automated email campaigns based on purchasesMarket to your existing customers - promotional email marketing campaignsTake advantage of free shopping functionality from GoogleAllocate monthly budget for paid adsNBDA webinar encouraging retailers to use ecommerce and technology - Specialty Bicycle Retail Study WebinarStatement from a presenter, "See your website as another salesperson, makes the cost seem much more affordable. Part of your sales force. Website needs to be as current and up-to-date as your salespeople. What do you need to move? What's new? What is most profitable?"Tech Tip: Payment Methods - more is better for consumersWePay, PayPal, and Klarna work well togetherIf you're a current Workstand client with questions about your subscription, reach out to support@workstand.com or call 303-527-0676 x 1. If you are not currently a Workstand client with questions about how our programs work, email info@workstand.com and we'll gladly show you around.Find Us on LinkedInRyan Atkinson, President + Co-OwnerSuzie Livingston, Marketing + CommunicationsMark Still, Business DevelopmentWe also publish Around the Workstand on our YouTube channel if you'd like to watch while you listen. Here is our Around the Workstand playlist.If you have any questions about the topics discussed in this episode of Around the Workstand or if you have ideas for new topics we can cover, schedule a time to meet with Mark Still here or email mark.s@workstand.com.#email marketing #marketing #bikeshopwebsites #merchandising #bikeshoppointofsale

It's Tuesday and it's August! Plenty to get to today so let's go!Santa Cruz Stigmata launch todayComplimentary marketing content - opt-in https://www.smartetailing.com/santa-cruz-stigmata-2023Supplier Sync reminder It's August…should you be thinking about the holidays? We recommend itStaff Picks Premium ContentGreat durable content - easy to update, great for SEO, fun way to showcase your team's expertise Excellent link destination for marketing year-round Tech Tip: New Feature shows which Footer and Banner is currently liveSeasonal swapsNo longer have to check in site settings to confirm If you're a current Workstand client with questions about your subscription, reach out to support@workstand.com or call 303-527-0676 x 1. If you are not currently a Workstand client with questions about how our programs work, email info@workstand.com and we'll gladly show you around.Find Us on LinkedInRyan Atkinson, President + Co-OwnerSuzie Livingston, Marketing + CommunicationsMark Still, Business DevelopmentWe also publish Around the Workstand on our YouTube channel if you'd like to watch while you listen. Here is our Around the Workstand playlist.If you have any questions about the topics discussed in this episode of Around the Workstand or if you have ideas for new topics we can cover, schedule a time to meet with Mark Still here or email mark.s@workstand.com.#email marketing #marketing #bikeshopwebsites #merchandising #bikeshoppointofsale

There is a lot going on this week!Free Homepage Makeover email - wow, what a response!It's too late to get one for free but take an honest look at your homepage and if it isn't great, let us know!Ibis Cycles Summer Sale Homepage BannerSanta Cruz Supplier Synchttps://www.smartetailing.com/santa-cruzCommunicating in-store pickup times and setting appropriate expectations https://blog.smartetailing.com/order-pickup-communicationsPost order notices Shopping Cart Page Message Order Confirmation Page MessageRecord In-Store fulfillment Things have moved around in site manager since the video was produced - don't forget to use Site Manager Search to easily find specific sections in site manager.Tech Tip: Closeout vs Sale - If a product is marked as a closeout, it will only display in-stock variations. With plenty of inventory in the system, you may not be thinking about closeouts in this way but if you expect to see warehouse stock or unmapped variations of a product but don't, confirm that it isn't set to be a Closeout in Your Items. Closeout can be set by manually checking the Closeout box or by your POS System if the end date for a sale is 01/01/2049.Default is that Closeout is enabled in Stock Status ManagementDisabling this feature allows you to have some flexibility with the label placed on sale itemsIf you're a current Workstand client with questions about your subscription, reach out to support@workstand.com or call 303-527-0676 x 1. If you are not currently a Workstand client with questions about how our programs work, email info@workstand.com and we'll gladly show you around.Find Us on LinkedInRyan Atkinson, President + Co-OwnerSuzie Livingston, Marketing + CommunicationsMark Still, Business DevelopmentWe also publish Around the Workstand on our YouTube channel if you'd like to watch while you listen. Here is our Around the Workstand playlist.If you have any questions about the topics discussed in this episode of Around the Workstand or if you have ideas for new topics we can cover, schedule a time to meet with Mark Still here or email mark.s@workstand.com.#email marketing #marketing #bikeshopwebsites #merchandising #bikeshoppointofsale