Clarity in your business identity isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s essential for success. In Week 2 at Box Brand, a pivotal realisation shifted our entire approach, from how we present stock to the way we communicate our purpose. This blog explores the why behind these changes, highlighting how knowing who you are as a business drives better decisions, builds customer trust, and sets the foundation for growth. Discover why listening, adapting, and aligning your actions with your identity can transform your entrepreneurial journey.

The first week of launching Box Brand was a whirlwind of adjustments, learning, and listening. While our soft opening meant starting small, it gave us the chance to refine our processes, clarify our messaging, and connect with customers on a deeper level. In this post, I explore the why behind our decisions—from choosing a soft launch to embracing transparency about our first-week income. Discover how focusing on adaptability, customer feedback, and purpose is shaping the foundation of our brick-and-mortar business.

Launching a brick-and-mortar business is both exciting and challenging. In this post, inspired by Storefront Strategies Episode 25, we take you behind the scenes of opening Box Brand—a community-centred retail space for custom merchandise. From market research and testing with a short-term lease to the hands-on work of preparing the shop, discover what it takes to bring a unique retail vision to life and learn the valuable lessons of adaptability along the way.

In a market flooded with options, authenticity can be the defining factor that sets a business apart. For brick-and-mortar stores, staying true to your roots and offering a genuine experience can foster deep customer loyalty and long-term success. In this post, inspired by our conversation with Yannis Papameletis from Just Greek in Penrith, we explore how authenticity in business—like sticking to traditional recipes and engaging with the community—builds trust, strengthens connections, and helps create a brand customers love.

Building a successful business starts with a strong foundation. In this post, we explore why a SWOT analysis and clearly defined mission, vision, and values are essential for any new venture. These elements provide clarity, guide decision-making, and help connect with customers on a deeper level. Discover how these foundational tools can transform your business strategy and set you up for long-term success.

Struggling to make sense of traditional business planning? Discover a simpler way with the Business Model Canvas. In this blog, we explore how this one-page tool can streamline your startup planning and align every part of your business. Learn how we used the BMC to lay the foundation for Box Brand and how you can apply it to your own entrepreneurial journey. Ready to bring your vision to life? Tune into Episode 022 and start planning your business on one page.

Is opening a second business worth the risk? In Episode 021 of Storefront Strategies, Canadian entrepreneurs Darryl and Chyanne share their journey of expanding from a single salon to multiple brick-and-mortar businesses. They discuss the unexpected challenges they faced, the strategies that helped them succeed, and the lessons they learned along the way. Whether you’re considering expanding your own business or simply curious about the realities of growth, this episode provides valuable insights on what it takes to make a second location thrive.

Success for brick-and-mortar businesses isn't built on one big move—it’s about the small, consistent daily habits that make all the difference. In this article, we explore five essential habits that can transform your business, from morning planning to customer engagement and inventory management. Learn how these simple actions, when done consistently, can lead to long-term growth and help you work smarter, not harder.

If you're ready to take your brick-and-mortar business to the next level, these habits are a great place to start!