As we read regularly, many retailers are having tough times. Today, we study how to recognize declining retailers: three stages of decline.
Previously, we discussed other types of failure. For example, Reasons Numerous Startups Fail and Small Businesses and Success/Failure. In addition, we noted how even Apple may retrench: Apple Cuts Back on iPod Product Line. Why? After years of great success, the iPod’s steadily declining. In response, Apple withdrew the iPod Shuffle and iPod Nano. The rapid growth of streaming music caused the decline.
According to Retail Dive, these retailers filed for bankruptcy projection in 2017. Many of the firms continue in a weakened state. But others have gone out of business:
Aerosoles
Alfred Angelo
BCBG Max Azria
Charming Charlie
Eastern Outfitters
Gander Mountain
Gordmans stores
Gymboree
Hhgregg
Papaya Clothing
Payless
Perfumania
RadioShack
Rue21
Styles For Less
The Limited
Toys R Us
True Religion
Vanity
Vitamin World
Wet Seal
Now, click the image for a description of each firm’s status.
And view CNN’s video on U.S. malls and shrinking retailers.
Recognize Declining Retailers: Three Stages
Though not always considered as such, data analytics must start with knowledge of what to monitor. In the case of declining retailers, it is essential to be aware of their stage of decline.
With the preceding in mind, let’s look at the framework devised by Outcalt & Johnson: Retail Strategists. That firm operates Retail Turnaround Experts. And it founded the Retail Owners Institute.
According to Outcalt and Johnson, eight “vital signs” indicate a retailer’s stage of decline. As shown in their chart, these vital signs can be placed into three stages:
In stage one, retailers have entered decline. This is the best time to modify strategies and tactics. Why? Because it is easier to turn performance around. By the time retailers move to stage three, it may be too late to fix things. Why? Because the vital signs are so off, it may not be possible to successfully modify them.
