March 2006 - Two workshops for local businesses in Roseau County were recently sponsored by Northwest Minnesota Foundation, Northwest WENet, and the Greenbush, Roseau and Warroad Chambers. The workshops focused on current trends in our County as well as ideas to effectively compete with "Big Box" stores and retail trade centers.

Ryan Pesch, from the Minnesota Extension Service, shared graphs showing that 43.4% of Roseau County residents' retail sales purchases are made outside of this county. Only around 30% of the clothing, electronics, and furniture actually purchased are bought in Roseau County. Pesch also shared information showing that Roseau County draws people from outside our County who made purchases, primarily for gas, food, lodging and repairs.

People today have more flexibility in their purchases. They drive to retail trade centers like Grand Forks or Bemidji, which offer everything a customer could want in one place, or it can be as easy as pointing and clicking on the Internet. Small town businesses must work to meet the needs of their customers to retain their loyalty.

Consumers are looking for convenience, guaranteed satisfaction, adequate products in stock, and knowledgeable staff. Small businesses can't compete with "Big Box" stores on price but they can offer higher-quality products and a wider selection. A local business also has the edge when it comes to adding the personal touch. A small business has the opportunity to provide excellent customer service, convenience, and knowledge about their products.

Business owners wishing to receive information from the workshops may contact a member of the Greenbush Town & Country, Roseau Civic and Commerce, or visit the Warroad website (www.warroad.org). The full Retail Trade Analysis Report is available on the home page from the link "Doing Business in Warroad," on the City of Roseau website (www.city.roseau.mn.us/roseau.htm), or by contacting Caryl Turnow at cturnow@wiktel.com.

The Northwest Minnesota Foundation invests resources, creates opportunities and promotes philanthropy to make the region a better place to live and work.