Storefront Strategies

This week was a wild mix of stress and progress! From supplier issues and unexpected costs to exciting new opportunities, I take you behind the scenes of what it really looks like to run multiple businesses at once.✔ Prepping for the Leavers Hoodies orders – Why efficiency is key. ✔ Shop renovations – Delays, last-minute deliveries, and keeping momentum. ✔ Funding challenges – The reality check of...

This week on Storefront Strategies, we’re diving into the chaos of running a business when nothing goes to plan. From contractors ghosting us to supply chain issues with shop fittings and Leavers Hoodies, it’s been a week of quick decisions, unexpected challenges, and figuring it all out on the fly. We’ll cover: ✅ The contractor crisis—when your renovation plans fall apart. ✅ Shop upda...

This week on Storefront Strategies, we’re diving into the Leavers Hoodies Enterprise Project—an initiative that gives students across the UK hands-on business experience without the barriers of production. Schools are responding positively, and we’ve already seen incredible success stories, like Elgin Academy’s 75 hoodie orders generating £450 in commission! We’ll discuss how this program aligns w...

Not all progress is visible, and that’s exactly what we’re diving into in this episode. While we’re in a holding pattern with the new shop renovations, there’s still plenty happening behind the scenes. From managing Leavers Hoodies orders to launching our website and pushing forward with personal development, this week is about resilience, adaptability, and making the most of the in-between moment...

In this episode, I share how we’re keeping Box Brand alive and thriving despite the temporary closure of our physical shop. From packing up and storing everything to setting up a temporary production hub at IT Central, we’ve been busy adapting to the changes. I’ll walk you through our website launch, the exciting progress with Leavers Hoodies, and our latest venture—working with local schools...

Welcome to Episode 34 of Storefront Strategies! This week has been a whirlwind as we navigated the closure of our first shop at St Giles Centre and began transitioning to our next chapter. From packing up and letting go to launching our new website and receiving our first online orders, this episode is all about resilience, adaptability, and looking ahead to a strong future for Box Brand. Key Topi...

In episode 33 of Storefront Strategies, Lee Midlane shares an emotional yet empowering update on Box Brand’s journey as the shop faces unexpected closure at the St Giles Centre. After receiving just 12 days’ notice to vacate the property, Lee walks listeners through the highs of December, the shock of January’s announcement, and the plan for moving forward. Key Moments:[00:00:10] Welcome back and...

Welcome to episode 32, a special holiday episode of Storefront Strategies. Lee sits down with Don Dickinson, co-director of Wild Oats Bristol, the oldest independent health food store in the city. With over 16 years at Wild Oats and decades of collective experience among the team, Don shares the challenges and triumphs of running a brick-and-mortar business in a rapidly changing retail landscape....

In this festive episode of Storefront Strategies, Lee Midlane sits down with Colin McAndrew, the dynamic force behind Medusa Hairdressing in Edinburgh. With over three decades of industry experience and a portfolio of six successful salons, Colin shares his journey from apprentice to award-winning business director. He opens up about navigating challenges, fostering innovation, and balancing creat...

Episode Highlights:A shift in podcast structure to catch up on Box Brand’s journey, leading to more real-time updates and audience engagement. Navigating snowy weather in Week 5, with two customer-free days transformed into opportunities for operational improvements. The highs and lows of Week 6, including walk-in discussions about bulk orders, the introduction of the Font Sampler and di...

 Welcome to Episode 29 of Storefront Strategies! 🎙️ In this week’s episode, we dive into Week 4 at Box Brand—a week filled with supplier frustrations, workspace overhauls, and lessons in balancing customer relationships with operational efficiency. If you’re running a business or dreaming of starting one, this episode is packed with relatable stories and actionable insights!🛠️ What We Cover i...

In this episode of Storefront Strategies, we dive into Week 3 at Box Brand—a week filled with unexpected challenges, insightful conversations, and steady progress. From fulfilling a complex custom T-shirt order to navigating a moral dilemma with a hoodie request, this week tested our workflows, principles, and creativity. Plus, we’ll share an exciting update on our website development and the week...

In this episode, I share the pivotal moments from Week 2 at Box Brand, where a game-changing realisation about our business’s identity reshaped how we approach everything—from stock displays to branding. Through conversations, reflections, and customer interactions, I discovered that Box Brand isn’t a clothing brand; it’s a hub for personalisation and customisation. This shift in perspective led t...

In this episode of Storefront Strategies, I’m sharing the behind-the-scenes journey of Box Brand’s very first week of opening. From the decision to have a soft opening to the constant adjustments in layout and messaging, you’ll get an honest look at the challenges and lessons learned in building a brick-and-mortar business from the ground up. We’ll dive into:[00:01:00] The Decision to Start with a...

In this special episode of Storefront Strategies, I take you behind the scenes as we prepare to launch Box Brand—a unique, community-driven retail shop offering custom merchandise with a personal touch. This episode marks the start of a new chapter in the podcast, where I’ll be sharing the real, unfiltered journey of opening and running a brick-and-mortar business. What You’ll Learn in This Episod...

In this episode of Storefront Strategies, I sit down with Yannis Papameletis, the proud owner of Just Greek in Penrith. Yannis shares his inspiring journey from Greece to the UK, starting as an employee and eventually becoming the owner of this award-winning Greek takeaway. We explore the challenges he faced in adapting to a new business environment, the authenticity that drives his food, and the...

In this episode of Storefront Strategies, we continue building the foundation for Box Brand by exploring two critical elements: conducting a SWOT analysis and defining our mission, vision, and values. These tools help shape Box Brand’s strategy, guide key decisions, and create a brand that resonates with our community and customers. What You’ll Learn:·         [00:01:...

In this episode of Storefront Strategies, we take a behind-the-scenes look at creating a solid foundation for my new business, Box Brand. Today, we're focusing on the initial steps that have shaped our strategy, from using the Business Model Canvas (BMC) to identifying core elements that drive growth. This is the first of a two-part series, where you'll get an inside look at the highs, lows, and t...

In this episode, I’m joined by Darryl and Chyanne, a dynamic entrepreneurial duo from Canada who share their inspiring journey of building not one, but two thriving brick-and-mortar businesses. We dive into the unique challenges they’ve faced, from starting a hair salon to expanding into a boutique store. With backgrounds as diverse as hairstyling and oil and gas operations, Darryl and Chyanne bri...

Ever wondered what sets thriving brick-and-mortar businesses apart from the rest? Spoiler alert: it’s not just about having the perfect product or the best location—it’s the small daily habits that make a big difference over time. In this episode, we dive deep into the essential daily habits that successful brick-and-mortar store owners practice consistently to drive long-term success. While...

In this episode of Storefront Strategies, we sit down with Janis Isaman, founder of My Body Couture, a wellness and fitness studio. Janis shares the highs and lows of running a brick-and-mortar business in the wellness industry. From managing a historic studio space in Canada to balancing product sales and client services, Janis opens up about the financial and emotional challenges she’s faced alo...

In this episode of Storefront Strategies, host Lee Midlane dives into the essential role of community in growing a successful brick-and-mortar business. Lee shares the inspiring story of Meryl, a local entrepreneur who transformed her struggling boutique by focusing on building meaningful connections with her community. Through collaborations, events, and a dedication to creating value, Meryl’s jo...

In this episode of Storefront Strategies, host Lee Midlane is joined by Isaac Navias, founder and CEO of LocalFi. Isaac shares his entrepreneurial journey, starting from leaving his corporate job at Target to building a thriving business in local SEO. He emphasises how LocalFi has helped local businesses rank higher on platforms like Google Maps and Yelp, drastically improving their visibility and...

In this episode, we dive into the essential steps every entrepreneur must take to successfully identify and connect with their target market when starting a brick-and-mortar business. Whether you're just starting out or refining your business strategy, knowing your audience is key to driving foot traffic, increasing sales, and ensuring your store’s long-term success. Timestamp Highlights:·&nb...

In this insightful episode, Lee Midlane chats with Linda Karressy, owner of Insight Financial Group, about the essential financial strategies that every small business owner should master. Linda, who has turned around numerous businesses with chaotic finances, shares her wealth of experience and offers actionable advice for managing cash flow, securing funding, and avoiding common financial pitfal...