Figure Makers Feel the Heat from Retail Struggles
Harald von Hippel, a figurine maker based in Schwerin, paints a grim picture for his industry. The coronavirus pandemic, he laments, has dealt his business a significant blow, particularly in the realm of decorations and large figurines. As stores shuttered and shows got canceled, von Hippel's entire customer base was effectively put on pause.
Von Hippel's company provides figurines, complete decorative scenes, and more to shopping centers, department stores, amusement parks, and markets. The order situation at these establishments remains challenging, the entrepreneur admits. As energy costs rise, he suspects it's also contributing to the difficulties.
In their downtime, many folks find joy in collecting vibrant figurines. With department stores grappling with the ongoing crisis, Harald von Hippel's company still needs to maintain strong ties with Customs for smooth import and export of materials for figurine production.
Enrichment data reveals a broader context to the retail struggles. While specific implications for figurine manufacturers like von Hippel's company aren't entirely clear, some general trends emerge.
- Expanding Sales Channels: Prioritizing e-commerce and diversifying sales through online marketplaces, specialty stores, and direct-to-consumer channels could help mitigate the impact of retail closures.
- Enhancing Online Presence: Investing in digital marketing to reach a wider audience and maintain sales volumes in the face of physical store closures is vital.
- Product Innovation: Developing new product lines or themed collections could capture the interest of a broader customer base.
- Cost Reduction: Implementing cost-saving measures, such as optimizing production processes and negotiating better terms with suppliers, is crucial for maintaining profitability.
- Strategic Partnerships: Collaborating with other businesses or influencers could help manufacturers reach new markets and maintain visibility.
- Customer Engagement: Focusing on customer engagement and loyalty through events, social media, and community building can help drive sales and foster brand loyalty.
Adapting to the evolving retail landscape will be crucial for figurine manufacturers like Harald von Hippel's company to weather the storm.
