EDITOR’S LETTER

Biz Qs

New consumer attitudes and business realities raise some tough issues

This month’s cover story is about bargaining for business. One point we make: there’s a new consumer consciousness that’s only going to grow. Here are just a few business questions to consider and points to ponder.

STRETCH MARKS. With everyone crossing over—fashion designers selling their own brands of paint and coffee shops selling music—nowandnext.com asks, “How far can you stretch a brand these days before it snaps?”

OVER THE HILL. If an American turns 50 every eight seconds, why did Credit Suisse First Boston find 7,700 clothing chains focusing on teens in the U.S., but only 1,800 reaching out to Boomers?

HANDS-ON. According to the California Institute of Technology, consumers are willing to pay 50 percent extra for products they can touch and see over those that aren’t in-store or are under lock and key.

BAD ATTITUDE. Only 30 percent of U.S. full-time workers are engaged in their work, while 20 percent say they’re “actively disengaged.”

How to stay in the top 30? According to entrants in our Tails from the Office competition, having a furry or finned friend in the dispensary is a great way to keep both staff and patients engaged with your practice. And, speaking of engagement, there’s still time to enter our competition. Check out the details below and join in the fun.

Stephanie K. De Long
Editorial Director