The seventh fundamental is Change. Otherwise known as “The economy and President Obama are not to blame f
or everything.”
Any retail business has six fundamental elements that have to be present for success. Those are outstanding products; phenomenal customer service; good marketing; caring, committed people; numbers that work; and a decent location.
We teach those from the minute you enter our training program but I have come to the conclusion that Change really is the 7th fundamental and maybe the most important
one. Particularly when you operate in specialty retail, you have to constantly evolve and grow. Over the years we have added sweets, white flour products, sandwiches, espresso drinks, jams, nut butters and some seating. And we continue to look at what our stores are doing to innovate and grow so that we can share those ideas with all of our bakeries.
In economic times like we have seen over the last few years, it is easy for small business owners to say “everyone is hurting so that is why my sales aren’t growing.” But, at the same time, the basic truth that innovation and change continue to excite customers holds true. It is easy to cut back, and keep doing the same thing. But is it right?
New problems need new ideas. Old ones certainly do. Now is the time to stand out from your competition. If you have a competitive advantage, use it while others are cutting costs.
Execute the six fundamentals. Have fresh, phenomenal products. 
Every day. Wow your customers. Every time. Tell the world what you do and why. Take care of your team. Watch your numbers. But, don’t forget the seventh. Figure out what is your biggest strength, and weakness. And, then, go after both of them. Change. Don’t be the same business you were a year ago. Don’t be paralyzed by the economy and fearful of the future. Be bold. Change now while others are blaming someone else for everything.
Change. Do you agree it’s the seventh fundamental?
