General Questions
1. What makes The Retail Artisan Group different from other consultants?
We’ve lived retail from the ground up—starting in stores, leading $30M–$100M companies, building brands, and turning struggling businesses profitable. Our advice isn’t theoretical; it’s shaped by real results, decades of experience, and a passion for retail.
2. Do I need to have an existing business to work with you?
No. Whether you’re just starting with an idea (The Launch), running an established business that needs a reset (The Reboot), preparing to pitch (The Pitch), or needing clarity around numbers (The Blueprint), we meet you where you are.
3. What industries do you specialize in?
Our background is rooted in retail, consumer goods, and brand development, but our process and strategies apply to any business where sales, expenses, and growth need structure and clarity. If you sell a product or a service, we can help you strengthen your foundation and move your business forward.
4. How do you price your services?
We offer flat-rate project pricing for most services, with custom proposals based on scope. Every engagement starts with a free consultation so we can recommend the right fit and explain all fees upfront.
5. How long does it typically take to complete a project?
Most projects take between 4–8 weeks, depending on complexity. The Blueprint & The Pitch can often be completed faster, while The Launch or Reboot may require more in-depth analysis.
6. Do you offer ongoing support after a project is finished?
Yes. Many clients choose to continue working with us on a retainer basis for ongoing guidance, reporting, or strategy check-ins.
7. Will my information and business plans remain confidential?
Absolutely. Confidentiality and trust are at the core of our relationships—we treat your business like our own.
8. Can we work together virtually, or do you only meet in person?
We work in both formats. Many clients prefer virtual collaboration to start with, and then we try to schedule in-person meetings when it adds value.
The Launch
Questions
1. I only have an idea, not a full plan. Can I still start with The Launch?
Yes. The Launch is designed to take your vision—no matter how early—and turn it into a structured business plan.
2. What does a custom business plan include?
A clear vision, market and competitor research, financial forecasts, cost analysis, and a step-by-step go-to-market strategy tailored to your goals. Every plan is professionally bound into a premium book you can reference for years—a tangible roadmap you can return to as your business grows.
3. Do you also help with funding or investor introductions?
While we don’t provide funding, we ensure your plan is investor-ready and compelling if you choose to seek outside capital.
4. How detailed will my financial forecasts be?
We provide multi-year projections that account for startup costs, revenue streams, and cash flow—giving you clarity on what’s realistic.
The Reboot
Questions
1. My business isn’t profitable right now—can you still help?
Yes. The Reboot is designed for businesses in exactly this situation. We analyze what’s not working and create a path toward profitability.
2. How do you identify what’s going wrong in a business?
We combine a full operational review with financial analysis, industry benchmarking, and in-person discovery sessions to uncover problem areas quickly.
3. Will The Reboot involve changing my whole strategy, or just fixing problem areas?
It depends on your needs. Sometimes it’s a few critical fixes; other times it requires a full reset. Either way, we recommend only what’s necessary to get you back on track.
4. How quickly can I expect to see results?
Some improvements, like expense control, can show results quickly. Larger shifts, like brand repositioning, may take months. We’ll give you realistic timelines from the start.
The Blueprint Questions
1. I don’t have organized financial records—can you still create a Blueprint?
Yes. Many clients come to us in exactly this situation. We help gather, organize, and make sense of your data.
2 What kind of reports or tools will I get at the end of the process?
You’ll receive clear, easy-to-use financial and sales reports, plus a detailed process customized to your business so you can keep things organized moving forward.
3. Do you also provide training so my team can maintain the system?
Yes. We offer walkthroughs and training to make sure you and your team can manage with confidence.
4. How often should a business revisit its Blueprint?
At least once a year, or whenever you experience major shifts—like rapid growth, new products, or market changes.
The Pitch Questions
1. Who is The Pitch best suited for—investors, retailers, or customers?
All three. We’ve crafted and delivered pitches to investors seeking growth opportunities, to major retailers deciding what products to put on shelves, and directly to customers in competitive markets. Our team has experience on every side of the table—we know what investors want to see, what retailers need to feel confident in a new product, and what messaging captures the attention of customers.
2. Do I need to already have a prototype or finished product for The Pitch?
No. You just need a concept worth sharing—we help shape the message whether you’re at idea stage or ready for launch. In fact, we’ve successfully sold products into major retailers without a physical sample by building trust through strong storytelling, compelling visuals, and data-backed positioning.
3. Will you help me practice and refine my delivery?
Absolutely. We offer coaching sessions so you feel confident presenting.