Marc’s tips for how independent retail entrepreneurs can be successful:

• Think Small
  While large chains can buy in very large quantities, they can’t buy in small quantities. They can’t benefit from the true closeouts, which are broken lots or left-over goods that a manufacturer needs to unload. This gives the smaller retailer a chance to show products of real value that may still be part of a chain store's regular assortment.
• Go Unique
  There are many new and unique products that, because the supply is limited, chains pass over them, giving the independent stores a chance to show many different hot new items.
• Develop Relationships With Small Manufacturers
  Many small manufacturers will not sell to chain stores because one year the chain may gobble up most of their production, and the next year the chain will take that item and make a knock-off overseas, leaving these manufacturers holding the bag.
• Agility on Overhead Cost
  Small retailers can beat the giants in another price-related factor: their overheads can be significantly lower. Instead of a whole management superstructure, teams of buyers, batteries of lawyers, cadres of store designers, layers of accountants, passels of marketers and public relations spokespeople and on and on, an independent business can be run by a true entrepreneur and their trusty staff.
• Simpler Shopping Experience For the Customer
  Convenience plays a large part in a shopper’s experience and a store that is 2,000-5,000 square feet is much easier to shop than a 100,000 square foot giant.
• Location, Location, Location
  Underserved neighborhoods are a real opportunity for independent stores to thrive. Be where the giants are not.
• Personal Attention
  Customer service is the backbone to the independent business. People like to shop where they feel comfortable and at home, where they feel the owner cares about their wants and needs. Independent stores can offer this unique intangible asset.