If you want to offer your customers a specific mix of 4SGM products while promoting only your own business, you now can download a photo catalog without any Four Seasons logos or prices.

Both the Wall Street Journal and the Economist agree: dollar and discount stores are more popular than ever in the new economy. However, in a sea of dollar stores, differentiating your store from the competition can be a challenge. The key to success can be as simple as selecting your merchandise to appeal to a trendier and younger demographic, as evidenced by East coast-based chain Five Below, which tailors its selection specifically for tween (age 9-13) and teenage consumers.

Unlike some dollar stores that focus on household items for moms on a budget, Five Below fills its shelves with licensed and trendy items that are attractive to young consumers looking for fun on the cheap. After opening in Pennsylvania in 2002, the chain currently has over 80 stores in the Northeast US.

Servicing the under-18 demographic can be enormously profitable. In 2007, persons under 18 represented 24.5% of the total US population [U.S. Census Bureau]. Whether from allowances or part-time jobs, kids have their own money and they are always looking to spend it. If your store is located near a school, a mall, or a dense residential area, merchandising licensed and youth-oriented products can be a boon to your business. Make your store a destination for kids after school who may only have a few dollars to spend on something that excites them.

A great way to get a tween's attention is licensed items. Five Below stocks up on popular items featuring Spongebob, Miley Cyrus/Hannah Montana, Hello Kitty, Disney, and others. Tweens (and tweens at heart) are also more likely to purchase arts and crafts items, sports games, novelty gifts, and inexpensive make up and lipstick. Kids and their parents are also likely to pick up bath and body items as well as room decorations,school supplies and books. Make your store a destination for tweens and reap the benefits!

The March 2009 ASD/AMD show in Las Vegas is now behind us. Despite the economic downturn, both spirits and orders were high as Four Seasons made a strong showing with a massive floor presence that occupied forty display booths. It was a pleasure to meet face-to-face with both our domestic and international customers.

The state of the economy was on everyone's minds, but nevertheless retailers were ready to buy. The licensed category is continuing to be in high demand for 4SGM, and most retailers that met with our sales team were already familiar with 4SGM's wide selection of licensed items. Our international customers were especially interested in the options offered by 4sgm.com, as ordering online greatly cuts down on travel costs and order time.

If you were not able to come to ASD/AMD, don't worry! Apply now to receive a free CD catalog of our entire inventory, with special prices, photos and specifications. The CD catalog is free but quantities are limited, so click here and get yours today!