Retail superstars

How small, one-of-a-kind businesses can break through among giantsMegachains like Walmart, Starbucks, Home Depot, and The Gap attract Americans to thousands of outlets by offering a large selection of goods and services. But this doesnt mean that independent stores cant compete with the big guysand win. Retail expert George Whalin identifies and explores twenty-five highly popular and profitable independent stores from around the country. Unlike the mom-and-pops of yesteryear, these businesses embrace technology and innovation, generate word of mouth, and turn their size into an advantage. They include: ABC Carpet and Home in New York City Powells City of Books in Portland, Oregon The Junkmans Daughter in Atlanta Jungle Jims International Market in Fairfield, OhioReaders will be inspired by how these independent stores are thriving and take away lessons they can apply to their own businesses.