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We may earn a commission from links on this page. Gardening season is approaching faster than it might seem, and like a lot of modern gardeners, I get an assist from technology every year. I use tech to help raise seeds into seedlings, plant them outside, produce a harvest, and still have a whole life outside of the garden. From weather stations and soil monitors to apps and calendars, here's all the tech I'm dusting off right now to start getting ready. A weather stationIt begins with the basics. I have a Tempest weather station in my front yard, and a few smart temperature gauges in the backyard. Although you can easily pull weather information from a local weather station (you’d be surprised how many neighbors have them; locate them at Weather Underground), I still find it incredibly helpful to know the real microclimate of my yard. I know when rain, hail, snow is going to hit, and the actual temperature at any time, whether I’m at home or away. For outdoor temperature monitoring, I’ve yet to find sensors that are as hardy as the Aqara or Switchbot. Soil monitorsThe temperature outside is important for planting, since you shouldn’t place plants outside until the overnight temps are stable above fifty degrees, but soil temperature is just as important. There’s never been great soil sensors before now, but this year I’m trying the ThirdReality Smart Soil Sensor in a few locations. I’m also excited to try the new Moen soil sensors. Not only are the sensors going to tell me when my soil is warm enough for planting, they can give important humidity data to my smart watering system—I’ve used a Hydrawise for three seasons and I’m incredibly happy with it. Hydrawise looks and acts like a normal drip or sprinkler control, but it has a wifi module that will connect to your phone and a local weather station and it uses the data to decide whether to water that day, and how much. It's great to be able to control my drip system from my phone, and get detailed reports on how much water was used. Garden appsThat’s all helpful to know when to plant, but I start seeds inside, and I use a bucket of different tech tools to help. First, there’s the planning stage. You don’t start all your seeds at once, you seed so the seedlings they produce are ready at about the time they can go out into the ground outside. Keeping track of what to plant when can be overwhelming, so I use Seedtime to create a planting calendar—its app and desktop interface are incredibly helpful.. A seedsheet in excel, and the trays they represent Credit: Amanda Blum The seed trays themselves hold 50, 72, or 128 seedlings, and you don’t put a label marker into each cell, which would be time consuming. I use a method taught to me by Meg Cowden of Seed to Fork, and use Google Spreadsheets to keep track of what is in each tray. The trays are numbered and marked with a front and back, and the spreadsheet details what is in each cell of the tray. When I go to plant, I bring my phone with me, or sometimes I print out a sheet. Automations and controllersI’ve discussed at some length how I plant seeds and what I use, but I rely on technology to ensure I’m keeping my seedlings on track. For instance, seedling heat mats ensure the soil in the trays is warm enough for seeds to germinate, but you need to control that heat because if the temperature gets too high, seeds get baked. I use an Inkbird controller to do so. It includes a probe to put into the soil, and then from your phone (or the controller), you specify a temperature range. The controller will turn the heat mat on and off to ensure it maintains the right temperature. I’ve also learned (the hard way) that too much humidity can lead to viruses and other problems in my seed-starting room, so with an Aqara temperature and humidity sensor, I use a Google Home automation to kick on the overhead fan when humidity gets too high. The fan’s air benefits the plants, too, which form stronger stems with a breeze. Calendars, voice assistants and remindersOutside, the Monty compost monitor reminds me to turn over my compost occasionally when the worms aren’t doing their job. It sends notifications to update me on the status of my compost, which is quite helpful. Truly, reminders are the key to much of my garden success. I have an entire Google calendar that is solely for garden reminders, such as when to plant specific seeds outside, check on plants, or put trellises up. Those reminders stream to my Google Nest speakers and my voice assistant will speak up to let me know if I forgot something. Most importantly, the calendar can be repurposed year to year. Security cameras I’ve been surprised how much I engage my smart cameras around the yard; yes, they catch critters who can cause damage (I’m particularly aware of neighborhood cats setting up in my garden this year, due to their ability to transmit bird flu), but it’s even helpful during a storm to check on how some fragile plants are doing. I’m excited to test the new Petal cameras coming from Bird Buddy, which use solar power and are installed at plant level. They use AI to report how your plants are faring. I hope to use these to capture weekly updates of my yard from the camera’s positions. I use these photos in wintertime, to decide what to plant each year. View the full article

Israeli prime minister’s office describes Friedrich Merz’s gesture as ‘overt defiance’ of international courtView the full article

As a small business owner, freelance photographer, or budding entrepreneur in the field of photography, choosing a suitable portrait lens is an essential step. This guide will help you understand the different types of portrait lenses and the factors you should consider while choosing the one that best fits your needs. What Are Portrait Lenses? A portrait lens is a specialized tool designed to capture stunning, intimate images of people. These lenses, often used by professional portrait photographers, offer a focal length and maximum aperture that provides a flattering perspective and an appealing shallow depth of field. The focal length refers to the distance between the lens and the image sensor when the subject is focused. Usually, portrait lenses come in the form of prime lenses, which have a fixed focal length, or zoom lenses, which offer a range of focal lengths. Prime Lens The advantage of a prime lens, like the 85mm f/1.8, is its wide maximum aperture that allows you to create images with a shallow depth of field, putting the subject in sharp focus while blurring the background. Prime lenses also often produce sharper images and perform better in low-light situations than zoom lenses. Zoom Lens Zoom lenses, in contrast, are highly versatile. They offer a range of focal lengths, enabling you to swiftly adjust your composition without the need to move closer or farther from your subject. A popular zoom lens for portraits is the 70-200mm f/2.8. It delivers longer focal lengths, perfect for compressing facial features and isolating the subject from the background. Mirrorless Camera Lens Whether you are using a digital SLR or a mirrorless camera, having a quality portrait lens is essential. Mirrorless cameras, which represent a newer technology, are gaining popularity because of their compact size, lightweight design, and outstanding image quality. Manufacturers such as Canon, Nikon, and Sony offer excellent mirrorless cameras, each paired with a variety of compatible lenses. Product Recommendations: Top Portrait Lenses for Small Photography Businesses Finding the right portrait lens is no small feat. As you’ve read, there are several factors to consider in order to find the best portrait lens for your needs. We’ve established a set of criteria to guide you in selecting a portrait lens that aligns with your specific needs: Focal Length (Importance Scale: 9/10) Criteria: Generally between 50mm to 135mm for optimal framing and perspective. Rationale: Ensures flattering proportions and a natural field of view for portraits. Aperture (Importance Scale: 10/10) Criteria: A wide aperture (such as f/1.4, f/1.8, or f/2.8) enhances light capture and allows for improved control over depth of field. Rationale: Enables beautiful background blur (bokeh) and excellent performance in low-light conditions. Lens Mount and Compatibility (Importance Scale: 10/10) Criteria: Compatible with your camera body (e.g., Canon EF, Nikon F, Sony E-mount). Rationale: Ensures the lens will function seamlessly with your existing equipment. Image Quality (Importance Scale: 9/10) Criteria: Sharpness, contrast, and color rendition. Rationale: Critical for producing professional-grade photographs. Autofocus Performance (Importance Scale: 8/10) Criteria: Fast and accurate autofocus, with manual override options. Rationale: Essential for capturing sharp images, especially in dynamic shooting situations. Build Quality and Durability (Importance Scale: 7/10) Criteria: Robust construction, weather-sealing for outdoor shoots. Rationale: Ensures longevity and reliability in various shooting environments. Price and Budget Considerations (Importance Scale: 6/10) Criteria: Cost-effectiveness, meeting the balance between quality and budget constraints. Rationale: Maximizes return on investment without sacrificing essential features. Additional Features (Importance Scale: 5/10) Criteria: Image stabilization, specialized lens elements to reduce aberrations. Rationale: Enhances image quality and user experience. Using these criteria, we’ve handpicked a range of portrait lenses that stand out.. Each lens on our list has been assessed based on these factors. Browse our picks below and find your next portrait lens! Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Medium Telephoto Lens for Canon SLR Cameras Product Features: 85mm standard lens with f/1.8 maximum aperture: Standard focal length with a large aperture, ideal for creating defocused backgrounds and delivering sharp, high-contrast images even at maximum aperture. Ring-type ultra-sonic monitor (USM) drives rapid auto focusing with near-silent operation. Natural angle of view and perspective: The lens offers a natural angle of view and perspective that’s perfect for portraits and natural images. Background blur: The lens’s wide aperture can create a background blur (bokeh), making your subject stand out against a soft, out-of-focus background. Compact size and weight: Measuring just 3 inches in diameter and 2.8 inches long, and weighing 15 ounces, this lens is easy to carry and handle. Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Medium Telephoto Lens for Canon SLR Cameras Buy on Amazon Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR Lens for Nikon DSLR Cameras Product Features: Focal Length: This lens offers a focal length range from 18mm to 55mm, which makes it versatile and suitable for a variety of shooting scenarios. Aperture: The maximum aperture varies from f/3.5 at the wide end to f/5.6 at the telephoto end. This is useful for managing depth of field and shooting in various lighting conditions. Vibration Reduction (VR): Nikon’s Vibration Reduction technology helps reduce the effect of camera shake and blur, especially in low-light conditions or when using slower shutter speeds. AF-P: This lens features Nikon’s AF-P (Pulse motor) technology, which offers fast, quiet, and smooth autofocus operation The lens is fully compatible with a variety of Nikon DSLR cameras, such as the D7500, D5600, D5500, D5300, D3400, D3300, D500, D850. Certain models, including the Df, D5, D810, D750, D7200, D7100, may experience limited functionality. Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR Lens for Nikon DSLR Cameras Buy on Amazon BALITY APS C Z Mount Sensitive 56mm F1.4 Portrait Lens Product Features: This portrait lens is designed for Z-mount cameras, including the ZFC, Z5, Z50, Z6, Z7, Z6II, and Z7II. It features eye-controlled focusing and subject tracking, along with automatic aperture functionality, A mode, S mode, and EXIF information recording. A large F1.4 aperture offers greater control over the depth of field, enabling a soft blur effect in the background. Precise brass mount and a silent motor for sensitive and precise focusing. The lens includes a hood that can be reversed for convenient storage when not in use. This feature not only makes it easier to store the lens but also offers protection and reduces stray or scattered light. 10 optical structures in 9 groups, including 1 ED (Extra-low Dispersion) lens and 1 high refractive lens. BALITY APS C Z Mount Sensitive 56mm F1.4 Portrait Lens Buy on Amazon Panasonic LUMIX G Lens for Micro Four-Thirds Cameras Product Features: F1.7 Large Diameter and Mid-Telephoto 85mm focal length offering a versatile field of view perfect for a variety of scenes. 31cm Closest Focusing Distance allows you to capture stunning close-ups with clarity. POWER O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) ensures steady and sharp images, even at slower shutter speeds. 240fps Drive AF ensures rapid autofocus, capturing fleeting moments with precision. Large F1.7 aperture perfect for low-light photography, capturing bright and clear images. 10 elements in 8 groups, including 1 aspherical lens for superior image quality. Maximum Magnification of approximately 0.2x/0.4x (35mm camera equivalent), providing ample scope for detail-oriented work. Panasonic LUMIX G Lens for Micro Four Thirds Cameras Buy on Amazon Sigma 56mm F1.4 DC DN for EF-M Mount . Product Features: Stepper motor technology that ensures smooth, quiet, and progressive autofocus for precise imaging. Dust and water-resistant construction for reliable usage in various weather conditions. Large lens hood included as standard, designed to reduce side flares, improving overall image clarity. Flare and ghost image reduction design ensures maximum image quality by minimizing unwanted light artifacts. The standard 56mm focal length is versatile for a wide range of photographic styles and situations. Made in Japan – guaranteeing incredible craftsmanship and quality. Sigma 56mm F1.4 DC DN for EF-M Mount Buy on Amazon Sony – E 50mm F1.8 OSS Portrait Lens Product Features: The built-in Optical SteadyShot image stabilization ensures sharp images by reducing blur that can occur from camera shake. The 7-blade circular aperture produces defocus effects that enhance the subject by blurring the background. Large F1.8 maximum aperture allows for exceptional performance in low-light conditions. 50mm focal length is ideal for a range of photography styles, including portrait, landscape, and more. Minimum focus distance of 1.28 ft (0.39 m) and a maximum magnification ratio of 0.16x, allowing for detailed close-ups. 49mm filter diameter is compatible with a range of accessories. Included Lens hood (ALC-SH116), Lens front cap, and Lens rear cap for maximum protection. Sony – E 50mm F1.8 OSS Portrait Lens Buy on Amazon Lightdow 85mm F1.8 Manual Focus Full Frame Portrait Lens for Nikon Product Features: Manual focus operation: This lens requires full manual focus operation on the DSLR camera Compatible with various Nikon DSLRs: The lens is designed for an extensive range of Nikon DSLR cameras 8-piece circular aperture: Enjoy a smooth and large focus range, ideal for capturing stunning portraits and landscapes Hybrid aspherical lenses and ultra multi-coating contribute to better image quality by reducing aberrations and improving light transmission. Large aperture: The lens’s large aperture helps in creating shallow depth-of-field images with an attractive bokeh effect. Lightdow 85mm F1.8 Manual Focus Full Frame Portrait Lens for Nikon Buy on Amazon Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art Lens for Canon EF Product Features: Newly designed Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) for swift autofocus control F1.4 aperture delivers exceptional low-light performance and depth-of-field control, allowing for beautiful bokeh effects. 9 aperture blades Compatible with the Mount Converter MC-11, this lens can be adapted for use with Sony E-mount systems 14 lens elements built in 12 groups for ultra-high resolution Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art Lens for Canon EF Buy on Amazon VILTROX 56mm F1.4 f/1.4 XF Autofocus APS-C Portrait Lens for Fujifilm X-Mount Key features: Compact and efficient design compatible with Fujifilm X-mount mirrorless cameras Short telephoto focal length paired with a bright f/1.4 maximum aperture for outstanding control over depth of field High-quality optical design featuring extra-low dispersion and high refractive index elements The lens design incorporates an STM stepping motor, allowing for quick, nearly silent, and accurate autofocus performance while also providing a full-time manual focus override. Internal focusing design that contributes to speedy performance. Micro-USB port for firmware updates that ensures your lens continues to deliver optimal performance. VILTROX 56mm F1.4 f/1.4 XF Autofocus APS-C Portrait Lens for Fujifilm X-Mount Buy on Amazon NIKON NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.8 S Portrait Fast Prime Lens for Nikon Z Cameras Product Features: 85mm f/1.8 lens with a nine-blade diaphragm for soft, rounded bokeh Two ED glass elements and Nano Crystal coating ensure lifelike accuracy and reduce lens flare and ghosting. A dust and drip-resistant design that provides comprehensive sealing to protect against dust and moisture, making it perfect for outdoor use and challenging environments. Customizable control ring allowing for on-the-fly adjustments to camera settings. NIKON NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.8 S Portrait Fast Prime Lens for Nikon Z Cameras Buy on Amazon Fujifilm Lens XF35mmF1.4 R Product Features: 35mm focal length (53mm equivalent in 35mm format) that provides a “normal” angle of view Constructed with 8 elements in 6 groups, including 1 Aspherical Element 44.2-degree angle of view for capturing broad landscapes and tight interior shots 7-blade rounded diaphragm opening for creating beautiful bokeh effects 52mm filter size – compatible with a wide range of filters The focus range of normal 0.8m to infinity and Macro 28cm to 2.0m, offering versatility for close-up and distant subjects. Maximum magnification of 0.17x, making it suitable for capturing detailed close-ups. Fujifilm Lens XF35mmF1.4 R Buy on Amazon Tamron 70-300mm F/4.5-6.3 Di III RXD for Sony Full Frame Mirrorless Camera/APS-C E-Mount Product Features: Supreme lightweight portability: This lens is engineered to be extremely lightweight, making telephoto shooting a fun and stress-free experience. It’s a good choice for photographers who need to carry their gear for extended periods. Lens structure comprises 15 elements in 10 groups, designed to deliver high-quality images with excellent detail and contrast. Close focusing distance of 31.5″ at the wide end and 59.1″ at the tele end Maximum magnification ratio of 1:9.4 at the wide-angle end and 1:5.1 at the telephoto end. Moisture-resistant construction offers some degree of protection against the elements. Focal length: The lens offers a versatile focal length of 70-300mm, making it suitable for portrait photography, as well as a variety of shooting scenarios, including landscape, wildlife, and sports. Tamron 70-300mm F/4.5-6.3 Di III RXD for Sony Full Frame Mirrorless Camera/APS-C E-Mount Buy on Amazon Meike 85mm f1.8 Wide Aperture Full Frame Auto Focus Telephoto Lens . Product Features: Compatibility with Nikon F mount full frame mirrorless cameras and DSLRs, ensuring a perfect fit for your Nikon equipment. Classic 85mm portrait lens with a wide f/1.8 aperture, enabling beautiful photos with a smooth background blur effect, even in low-light conditions. Wide applications range from selective architecture, landscapes, and portraits to short-range sports and theatre photography. Autofocus lens and automatic aperture offering ease of use Lens structure comprising 6 groups and 11 elements for delivering sharp and detailed images. USB connection for firmware updates to keep your lens operating at its peak performance. Meike 85mm f1.8 Wide Aperture Full Frame Auto Focus Telephoto Lens Buy on Amazon Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) What is a prime lens, and why is it often recommended for portrait photography? A prime lens is a type of lens that has a fixed focal length. In other words, unlike a zoom lens, a prime lens doesn’t allow you to zoom in or out to change your framing; to get closer or farther from your subject, you have to physically move. So why would anyone prefer this over the versatility of a zoom lens? The answer lies in the image quality and aperture size. Prime lenses often offer superior image sharpness and a larger maximum aperture (lower f-number) compared to zoom lenses. This larger aperture allows more light to reach the sensor, which not only helps in low-light conditions but also provides a shallower depth of field. A shallow depth of field is desirable in portrait photography because it keeps the subject in sharp focus while blurring the background, helping the subject stand out. What’s the difference between a full-frame camera and a crop sensor, and how does it affect the choice of portrait lens? A full-frame camera has a sensor that’s roughly the same size as a 35mm film frame, whereas a crop sensor is smaller. The main impact of this difference is the ‘crop factor,’ which affects the effective focal length of lenses. For instance, a 50mm lens on a crop sensor camera with a crop factor of 1.5x will have an effective focal length of 75mm. Therefore, when choosing a lens for a crop sensor camera, you need to account for the crop factor. If you want the equivalent field of view to an 85mm lens on a full-frame camera, for instance, you’d need a shorter focal length on a crop sensor camera. The sensor size can also impact the depth of field and low light performance, with full-frame cameras generally performing better in these aspects. How does focal length affect a portrait? Focal length can significantly impact how a portrait looks. Shorter focal lengths (wide-angle lenses) can distort facial features when used close-up, making them less desirable for close-up portraits. However, they can be good for environmental portraits where you want to include more of the scene around the subject. Longer focal lengths (telephoto lenses) can compress facial features and provide a more flattering perspective. They also help to isolate the subject from the background, which is often desirable in portrait photography. Why do some photographers prefer zoom lenses for portrait photography? While prime lenses are frequently suggested for portrait photography, some photographers favor zoom lenses for their versatility. A zoom lens enables you to modify your framing without the need to move closer or farther from your subject, which can be especially beneficial when shooting in tight spaces. Some contemporary zoom lenses also provide outstanding image quality and a fairly large maximum aperture, making them appropriate for portrait photography. For example, a 70-200mm f/2.8 lens is a favored option for portraits. Image: Amazon This article, "Portrait Lens: Top Picks For Your Photography Business" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

As a small business owner, freelance photographer, or budding entrepreneur in the field of photography, choosing a suitable portrait lens is an essential step. This guide will help you understand the different types of portrait lenses and the factors you should consider while choosing the one that best fits your needs. What Are Portrait Lenses? A portrait lens is a specialized tool designed to capture stunning, intimate images of people. These lenses, often used by professional portrait photographers, offer a focal length and maximum aperture that provides a flattering perspective and an appealing shallow depth of field. The focal length refers to the distance between the lens and the image sensor when the subject is focused. Usually, portrait lenses come in the form of prime lenses, which have a fixed focal length, or zoom lenses, which offer a range of focal lengths. Prime Lens The advantage of a prime lens, like the 85mm f/1.8, is its wide maximum aperture that allows you to create images with a shallow depth of field, putting the subject in sharp focus while blurring the background. Prime lenses also often produce sharper images and perform better in low-light situations than zoom lenses. Zoom Lens Zoom lenses, in contrast, are highly versatile. They offer a range of focal lengths, enabling you to swiftly adjust your composition without the need to move closer or farther from your subject. A popular zoom lens for portraits is the 70-200mm f/2.8. It delivers longer focal lengths, perfect for compressing facial features and isolating the subject from the background. Mirrorless Camera Lens Whether you are using a digital SLR or a mirrorless camera, having a quality portrait lens is essential. Mirrorless cameras, which represent a newer technology, are gaining popularity because of their compact size, lightweight design, and outstanding image quality. Manufacturers such as Canon, Nikon, and Sony offer excellent mirrorless cameras, each paired with a variety of compatible lenses. Product Recommendations: Top Portrait Lenses for Small Photography Businesses Finding the right portrait lens is no small feat. As you’ve read, there are several factors to consider in order to find the best portrait lens for your needs. We’ve established a set of criteria to guide you in selecting a portrait lens that aligns with your specific needs: Focal Length (Importance Scale: 9/10) Criteria: Generally between 50mm to 135mm for optimal framing and perspective. Rationale: Ensures flattering proportions and a natural field of view for portraits. Aperture (Importance Scale: 10/10) Criteria: A wide aperture (such as f/1.4, f/1.8, or f/2.8) enhances light capture and allows for improved control over depth of field. Rationale: Enables beautiful background blur (bokeh) and excellent performance in low-light conditions. Lens Mount and Compatibility (Importance Scale: 10/10) Criteria: Compatible with your camera body (e.g., Canon EF, Nikon F, Sony E-mount). Rationale: Ensures the lens will function seamlessly with your existing equipment. Image Quality (Importance Scale: 9/10) Criteria: Sharpness, contrast, and color rendition. Rationale: Critical for producing professional-grade photographs. Autofocus Performance (Importance Scale: 8/10) Criteria: Fast and accurate autofocus, with manual override options. Rationale: Essential for capturing sharp images, especially in dynamic shooting situations. Build Quality and Durability (Importance Scale: 7/10) Criteria: Robust construction, weather-sealing for outdoor shoots. Rationale: Ensures longevity and reliability in various shooting environments. Price and Budget Considerations (Importance Scale: 6/10) Criteria: Cost-effectiveness, meeting the balance between quality and budget constraints. Rationale: Maximizes return on investment without sacrificing essential features. Additional Features (Importance Scale: 5/10) Criteria: Image stabilization, specialized lens elements to reduce aberrations. Rationale: Enhances image quality and user experience. Using these criteria, we’ve handpicked a range of portrait lenses that stand out.. Each lens on our list has been assessed based on these factors. Browse our picks below and find your next portrait lens! Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Medium Telephoto Lens for Canon SLR Cameras Product Features: 85mm standard lens with f/1.8 maximum aperture: Standard focal length with a large aperture, ideal for creating defocused backgrounds and delivering sharp, high-contrast images even at maximum aperture. Ring-type ultra-sonic monitor (USM) drives rapid auto focusing with near-silent operation. Natural angle of view and perspective: The lens offers a natural angle of view and perspective that’s perfect for portraits and natural images. Background blur: The lens’s wide aperture can create a background blur (bokeh), making your subject stand out against a soft, out-of-focus background. Compact size and weight: Measuring just 3 inches in diameter and 2.8 inches long, and weighing 15 ounces, this lens is easy to carry and handle. Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Medium Telephoto Lens for Canon SLR Cameras Buy on Amazon Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR Lens for Nikon DSLR Cameras Product Features: Focal Length: This lens offers a focal length range from 18mm to 55mm, which makes it versatile and suitable for a variety of shooting scenarios. Aperture: The maximum aperture varies from f/3.5 at the wide end to f/5.6 at the telephoto end. This is useful for managing depth of field and shooting in various lighting conditions. Vibration Reduction (VR): Nikon’s Vibration Reduction technology helps reduce the effect of camera shake and blur, especially in low-light conditions or when using slower shutter speeds. AF-P: This lens features Nikon’s AF-P (Pulse motor) technology, which offers fast, quiet, and smooth autofocus operation The lens is fully compatible with a variety of Nikon DSLR cameras, such as the D7500, D5600, D5500, D5300, D3400, D3300, D500, D850. Certain models, including the Df, D5, D810, D750, D7200, D7100, may experience limited functionality. Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR Lens for Nikon DSLR Cameras Buy on Amazon BALITY APS C Z Mount Sensitive 56mm F1.4 Portrait Lens Product Features: This portrait lens is designed for Z-mount cameras, including the ZFC, Z5, Z50, Z6, Z7, Z6II, and Z7II. It features eye-controlled focusing and subject tracking, along with automatic aperture functionality, A mode, S mode, and EXIF information recording. A large F1.4 aperture offers greater control over the depth of field, enabling a soft blur effect in the background. Precise brass mount and a silent motor for sensitive and precise focusing. The lens includes a hood that can be reversed for convenient storage when not in use. This feature not only makes it easier to store the lens but also offers protection and reduces stray or scattered light. 10 optical structures in 9 groups, including 1 ED (Extra-low Dispersion) lens and 1 high refractive lens. BALITY APS C Z Mount Sensitive 56mm F1.4 Portrait Lens Buy on Amazon Panasonic LUMIX G Lens for Micro Four-Thirds Cameras Product Features: F1.7 Large Diameter and Mid-Telephoto 85mm focal length offering a versatile field of view perfect for a variety of scenes. 31cm Closest Focusing Distance allows you to capture stunning close-ups with clarity. POWER O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) ensures steady and sharp images, even at slower shutter speeds. 240fps Drive AF ensures rapid autofocus, capturing fleeting moments with precision. Large F1.7 aperture perfect for low-light photography, capturing bright and clear images. 10 elements in 8 groups, including 1 aspherical lens for superior image quality. Maximum Magnification of approximately 0.2x/0.4x (35mm camera equivalent), providing ample scope for detail-oriented work. Panasonic LUMIX G Lens for Micro Four Thirds Cameras Buy on Amazon Sigma 56mm F1.4 DC DN for EF-M Mount . Product Features: Stepper motor technology that ensures smooth, quiet, and progressive autofocus for precise imaging. Dust and water-resistant construction for reliable usage in various weather conditions. Large lens hood included as standard, designed to reduce side flares, improving overall image clarity. Flare and ghost image reduction design ensures maximum image quality by minimizing unwanted light artifacts. The standard 56mm focal length is versatile for a wide range of photographic styles and situations. Made in Japan – guaranteeing incredible craftsmanship and quality. Sigma 56mm F1.4 DC DN for EF-M Mount Buy on Amazon Sony – E 50mm F1.8 OSS Portrait Lens Product Features: The built-in Optical SteadyShot image stabilization ensures sharp images by reducing blur that can occur from camera shake. The 7-blade circular aperture produces defocus effects that enhance the subject by blurring the background. Large F1.8 maximum aperture allows for exceptional performance in low-light conditions. 50mm focal length is ideal for a range of photography styles, including portrait, landscape, and more. Minimum focus distance of 1.28 ft (0.39 m) and a maximum magnification ratio of 0.16x, allowing for detailed close-ups. 49mm filter diameter is compatible with a range of accessories. Included Lens hood (ALC-SH116), Lens front cap, and Lens rear cap for maximum protection. Sony – E 50mm F1.8 OSS Portrait Lens Buy on Amazon Lightdow 85mm F1.8 Manual Focus Full Frame Portrait Lens for Nikon Product Features: Manual focus operation: This lens requires full manual focus operation on the DSLR camera Compatible with various Nikon DSLRs: The lens is designed for an extensive range of Nikon DSLR cameras 8-piece circular aperture: Enjoy a smooth and large focus range, ideal for capturing stunning portraits and landscapes Hybrid aspherical lenses and ultra multi-coating contribute to better image quality by reducing aberrations and improving light transmission. Large aperture: The lens’s large aperture helps in creating shallow depth-of-field images with an attractive bokeh effect. Lightdow 85mm F1.8 Manual Focus Full Frame Portrait Lens for Nikon Buy on Amazon Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art Lens for Canon EF Product Features: Newly designed Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) for swift autofocus control F1.4 aperture delivers exceptional low-light performance and depth-of-field control, allowing for beautiful bokeh effects. 9 aperture blades Compatible with the Mount Converter MC-11, this lens can be adapted for use with Sony E-mount systems 14 lens elements built in 12 groups for ultra-high resolution Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art Lens for Canon EF Buy on Amazon VILTROX 56mm F1.4 f/1.4 XF Autofocus APS-C Portrait Lens for Fujifilm X-Mount Key features: Compact and efficient design compatible with Fujifilm X-mount mirrorless cameras Short telephoto focal length paired with a bright f/1.4 maximum aperture for outstanding control over depth of field High-quality optical design featuring extra-low dispersion and high refractive index elements The lens design incorporates an STM stepping motor, allowing for quick, nearly silent, and accurate autofocus performance while also providing a full-time manual focus override. Internal focusing design that contributes to speedy performance. Micro-USB port for firmware updates that ensures your lens continues to deliver optimal performance. VILTROX 56mm F1.4 f/1.4 XF Autofocus APS-C Portrait Lens for Fujifilm X-Mount Buy on Amazon NIKON NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.8 S Portrait Fast Prime Lens for Nikon Z Cameras Product Features: 85mm f/1.8 lens with a nine-blade diaphragm for soft, rounded bokeh Two ED glass elements and Nano Crystal coating ensure lifelike accuracy and reduce lens flare and ghosting. A dust and drip-resistant design that provides comprehensive sealing to protect against dust and moisture, making it perfect for outdoor use and challenging environments. Customizable control ring allowing for on-the-fly adjustments to camera settings. NIKON NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.8 S Portrait Fast Prime Lens for Nikon Z Cameras Buy on Amazon Fujifilm Lens XF35mmF1.4 R Product Features: 35mm focal length (53mm equivalent in 35mm format) that provides a “normal” angle of view Constructed with 8 elements in 6 groups, including 1 Aspherical Element 44.2-degree angle of view for capturing broad landscapes and tight interior shots 7-blade rounded diaphragm opening for creating beautiful bokeh effects 52mm filter size – compatible with a wide range of filters The focus range of normal 0.8m to infinity and Macro 28cm to 2.0m, offering versatility for close-up and distant subjects. Maximum magnification of 0.17x, making it suitable for capturing detailed close-ups. Fujifilm Lens XF35mmF1.4 R Buy on Amazon Tamron 70-300mm F/4.5-6.3 Di III RXD for Sony Full Frame Mirrorless Camera/APS-C E-Mount Product Features: Supreme lightweight portability: This lens is engineered to be extremely lightweight, making telephoto shooting a fun and stress-free experience. It’s a good choice for photographers who need to carry their gear for extended periods. Lens structure comprises 15 elements in 10 groups, designed to deliver high-quality images with excellent detail and contrast. Close focusing distance of 31.5″ at the wide end and 59.1″ at the tele end Maximum magnification ratio of 1:9.4 at the wide-angle end and 1:5.1 at the telephoto end. Moisture-resistant construction offers some degree of protection against the elements. Focal length: The lens offers a versatile focal length of 70-300mm, making it suitable for portrait photography, as well as a variety of shooting scenarios, including landscape, wildlife, and sports. Tamron 70-300mm F/4.5-6.3 Di III RXD for Sony Full Frame Mirrorless Camera/APS-C E-Mount Buy on Amazon Meike 85mm f1.8 Wide Aperture Full Frame Auto Focus Telephoto Lens . Product Features: Compatibility with Nikon F mount full frame mirrorless cameras and DSLRs, ensuring a perfect fit for your Nikon equipment. Classic 85mm portrait lens with a wide f/1.8 aperture, enabling beautiful photos with a smooth background blur effect, even in low-light conditions. Wide applications range from selective architecture, landscapes, and portraits to short-range sports and theatre photography. Autofocus lens and automatic aperture offering ease of use Lens structure comprising 6 groups and 11 elements for delivering sharp and detailed images. USB connection for firmware updates to keep your lens operating at its peak performance. Meike 85mm f1.8 Wide Aperture Full Frame Auto Focus Telephoto Lens Buy on Amazon Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) What is a prime lens, and why is it often recommended for portrait photography? A prime lens is a type of lens that has a fixed focal length. In other words, unlike a zoom lens, a prime lens doesn’t allow you to zoom in or out to change your framing; to get closer or farther from your subject, you have to physically move. So why would anyone prefer this over the versatility of a zoom lens? The answer lies in the image quality and aperture size. Prime lenses often offer superior image sharpness and a larger maximum aperture (lower f-number) compared to zoom lenses. This larger aperture allows more light to reach the sensor, which not only helps in low-light conditions but also provides a shallower depth of field. A shallow depth of field is desirable in portrait photography because it keeps the subject in sharp focus while blurring the background, helping the subject stand out. What’s the difference between a full-frame camera and a crop sensor, and how does it affect the choice of portrait lens? A full-frame camera has a sensor that’s roughly the same size as a 35mm film frame, whereas a crop sensor is smaller. The main impact of this difference is the ‘crop factor,’ which affects the effective focal length of lenses. For instance, a 50mm lens on a crop sensor camera with a crop factor of 1.5x will have an effective focal length of 75mm. Therefore, when choosing a lens for a crop sensor camera, you need to account for the crop factor. If you want the equivalent field of view to an 85mm lens on a full-frame camera, for instance, you’d need a shorter focal length on a crop sensor camera. The sensor size can also impact the depth of field and low light performance, with full-frame cameras generally performing better in these aspects. How does focal length affect a portrait? Focal length can significantly impact how a portrait looks. Shorter focal lengths (wide-angle lenses) can distort facial features when used close-up, making them less desirable for close-up portraits. However, they can be good for environmental portraits where you want to include more of the scene around the subject. Longer focal lengths (telephoto lenses) can compress facial features and provide a more flattering perspective. They also help to isolate the subject from the background, which is often desirable in portrait photography. Why do some photographers prefer zoom lenses for portrait photography? While prime lenses are frequently suggested for portrait photography, some photographers favor zoom lenses for their versatility. A zoom lens enables you to modify your framing without the need to move closer or farther from your subject, which can be especially beneficial when shooting in tight spaces. Some contemporary zoom lenses also provide outstanding image quality and a fairly large maximum aperture, making them appropriate for portrait photography. For example, a 70-200mm f/2.8 lens is a favored option for portraits. Image: Amazon This article, "Portrait Lens: Top Picks For Your Photography Business" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

If you want your iCloud data to be as well-protected as possible, you need to turn on Advanced Data Protection (ADP)— but that's no longer going to be an option in the UK. Apple is pulling ADP from the country, reportedly following a request from the UK government for a backdoor into encrypted iCloud files, and the fallout is likely to have global consequences. What is ADP? ADP applies end-to-end encryption (the gold standard for data security) to just about everything you've got backed up in iCloud, making it virtually impossible for anyone else to access it. If ADP isn't enabled, only certain types of data get this protection, such as passwords and payment info, Messages in iCloud, and your health data. It's important to note that this data remains fully protected from everyone—even Apple and UK spies. Without ADP, the rest of your iCloud backups (think iCloud Drive, Photos, and Notes, for example) are still protected, but with a lower level of encryption. That protection does a very good job at keeping out bad actors and preventing your data from being hacked, but it can still be accessed if required by Apple employees and—crucially for this current story—government and law enforcement agencies. While Apple and the governments and security services of the world would tell you they have robust checks in place when it comes to who can get at encrypted data, the possibility for access is still there. With ADP (and other places where end-to-end encryption is deployed, like WhatsApp) that possibility goes away. Even if the FBI or MI5 demand files, they can't be delivered. Earlier this month, The Washington Post reported that UK officials had requested secret, backdoor access into Apple's fully encrypted data files. The demand was apparently made under the auspices of the Investigatory Powers Act of 2016, which gives the country's security services widespread access to user data in the name of investigating criminal activity: Fighting terrorism and stopping child abuse are two common reasons given for creating an encryption backdoor. It's a fight that's been going on for years. Governments and law enforcement agencies want their own special keys to the locks protecting user data across the world, ostensibly to halt criminals in their tracks. Privacy campaigners and tech companies like Apple argue there's no effective way of limiting a backdoor to just the "good guys" and not the "bad guys" (even if it was easy to distinguish between the two, which it isn't). Apple's move in the UK—and the global implications Users in the UK now see a message like this. Credit: Lifehacker Apple's policy has long been that it will never offer backdoors to its encrypted data, so it would seem to have decided that its only other option is to pull ADP. Brits without ADP enabled can no longer turn it on, while those who do have the feature set up will have to eventually turn it off (though Apple hasn't said when). "Apple can no longer offer Advanced Data Protection (ADP) in the United Kingdom to new users and current UK users will eventually need to disable this security feature," Apple spokesperson Julien Trosdorf told The Verge. "We are gravely disappointed that the protections provided by ADP will not be available to our customers in the UK given the continuing rise of data breaches and other threats to customer privacy." As you would expect given the sensitive nature of the issue, government officials in the UK haven't said anything about what's been reported—and you'll see Apple makes no direct reference to it either, because to publicize a demand made under the Investigatory Powers Act is itself a criminal offense. As for other organizations, such as Google and Meta, we're still in the dark. Presumably the UK government has made the same request, but details haven't leaked out—and no one involved can talk about it. Google and Meta, like Apple, have repeatedly said they're against encryption backdoors. It's a mess if you're in the UK (like me), but it affects everyone: Given the rather blurry national borders we now have in the internet age, UK agencies would most likely have been able to access end-to-end encrypted data from users across the world through this backdoor, which for now looks off the table. I've got ADP switched on, but unless the issue gets sorted out, I'll have to turn it off soon—meaning some of my iCloud data is more vulnerable to snooping again. As is often the case, it's ordinary users who end up losing out, while the debate on encryption backdoors rumbles on. View the full article

Corporate lay-offs are the first for coffee shop chain since 2018View the full article

Dropping things on your foot and rating how much it hurts is a growing trend on TikTok. The meme's popularity may be indicative of something deep and troubling in youth culture. So, maybe, is injecting butterflies and turning goth. You be the judge. What is "Amialivecore?" On his substack "The Trend Report," Kyle Raymond Fitzpatrick pulled together a ton of disparate cultural expressions among online youth to identify a style he calls "Amialivecore." Fitzpatrick posits that young people are subconsciously unsure if they are actually living human beings. I think he's onto something. My interpretation of the meaning of amialivecore: Since they were babies, young people's experiences are almost entirely unreal. Everything is mediated. They have "experiences" in video games. They see the world through the vertical window of TikTok videos. They only see their friends in online posts. They build personal philosophies from memes. Meanwhile, the companies and algorithms behind the social media platforms and video games have gotten really good at dehumanization. They've identified, commodified, and shaped their dreams, desires, thoughts, and feelings so thoroughly, it's impossible for young people to know how to live authentically. So they play-act and create content in place of living. For evidence, go to see a band kids like, and compare how many people have their phones out to shoot video and how many are dancing. According to Fitzpatrick, seemingly unrelated things like the TikTok trend of dropping objects on your feet and rating how much they hurt, wearing visible tape on your face in public, and spending your time consciously trying to find a personal style illustrate young people attempting to "problem solve the question of if you are alive and if your body works and if you are indeed present in the present." Maybe eating butterflies and suddenly becoming goth are expressions of amialivecore, too. Are teens injecting butterflies as part of an online challenge?No. I can't find any evidence of an "online challenge" involving injecting yourself with a butterfly, but that's what some sources claim inspired a Brazilian 14-year-old to crush a butterfly, mix it with water, and inject it into his leg. Things ended horribly for Davi Nunes Moreira: After a week suffering agonizing symptoms, he died in a hospital in Planalto, Brazil. Medical professionals aren't certain what caused the teen's death specifically: It could have been an allergic reaction, an infection, an embolism, or the butterfly itself might have been toxic. Point is, it's a bad idea to inject yourself with butterflies, but it's also a bad idea to report on "online challenges" that almost definitely don't exist. People have been killing themselves in stupid ways since people first came out. What is the "accidentally became important at work" meme? I'm fascinated by the meme-making generations getting older, confronting adult situations for the first time, and warning/informing each other through memes. That's the vibe behind the "becoming important at work" memes that are flooding social media this week. The idea is to attach the phrase "accidentally became important at work" to an image expressing the realization of what happens when you're "noticed" at work. Here are some examples: This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed. This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed. This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed. What does “aura farming" mean?In slang, the word "aura" describes a person who is mysterious and cool. It's a positive thing. "Aura farming" on the other hand, is ambiguous. Depending on the context, it can refer to a person who does something cool without trying or someone who is trying too hard to appear cool. It's all about context. (For more slang definition to keep your vocab on fleek, check out my guide to Gen Z and Gen A slang.) Goth is back (not that it ever really went anywhere)Like the vampires that inspire it, goth never really dies; it just sleeps in its coffin until it's time to claims new victims. Judging from TikTok, the dark aesthetic and gloomy vibe of the subculture is gaining ground with young people; maybe it's based on the recent reboot of Nosferatu or maybe it's just because goth fits the times. While some goth markers that are perennial—black clothes, Joy Division, too much eyeliner—this generation's expression of the vibe is different in key ways from their grandparents' interpretation of it back in the early 1980s. Maybe it's because I'm thinking about amIalivecore, but nu-goths seems like more of a pose than a lifestyle. The look bends more toward the theatrical and gaudy than past generations. Today's goth feels more intentional and self-conscious, like the kids bought the clothes, watched some makeup tutorials, then said, "now I'm a goth!" Old goths tended to be pale, suicidal junkies that let other people call them "goth." Viral video of the week: baby at BenihanaDo you remember the first time you went to Benihana? The baby in this week's viral video is too young to form lasting memories of his first trip to the Japanese chain with the theatrical food presentation, but it makes a huge impression anyway. View the full article

The real estate market is continuing to boom, and with it comes the need for home inspection business owners. The best home inspectors have a blend of characteristics. They must have an entrepreneurial spirit, technical skills, expansive knowledge of house systems and construction, and meticulous attention to detail. The home inspector is a key component of the real estate sales system. It plays a pivotal role in communications between real estate agents and in assisting buyers in making informed decisions about the purchase of a property and its price. Starting Your Own Home Inspection Business: Key Steps These are the key steps you should take in starting your own home inspection company. We’ll tell you everything you need to know, from crafting a business plan and handling startup costs to marketing and growing the business. What Do Home Inspectors Do? Home inspectors play a crucial role in the real estate process, offering services that provide potential buyers, sellers, and property owners with essential information about a property’s condition. Their tasks typically involve a detailed examination of various aspects of a property to ensure its safety, functionality, and overall condition. Here’s a more in-depth look at what home inspectors do: Assess Structural Integrity: Inspect the foundation, walls, floors, roof, and other structural components to identify signs of damage, deterioration, or potential failures that might affect the property’s safety and value. Evaluate Systems and Components: Examine the property’s essential systems, including electrical, plumbing, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, to ensure they are installed correctly and functioning as intended. Inspect Exterior Elements: Check the exterior of the property, including siding, windows, doors, decks, balconies, and other attached or detached structures to identify any issues that could lead to problems or require maintenance. Review Interior Conditions: Evaluate the condition of interior elements such as ceilings, walls, floors, stairs, and installed fixtures to detect any signs of water damage, mold, pests, or other interior deficiencies. Examine Insulation and Ventilation: Inspect insulation quality and ventilation efficiency in attics, crawl spaces, and other areas to ensure proper temperature regulation and moisture control within the property. Create Detailed Inspection Reports: After conducting a thorough inspection, home inspectors must compile their findings into comprehensive reports. These reports should include: Descriptions of Deficiencies: Clearly describe any issues found during the inspection, specifying the location and nature of each problem. Photographic Evidence: Include photographs of noted deficiencies to provide a visual reference that supports the findings in the report. Recommendations for Repairs or Further Evaluation: Propose essential repairs or advise seeking further assessment from specialists, such as a structural engineer or a licensed electrician, for more intricate issues. Provide Maintenance Advice: Offer guidance on regular maintenance practices that can help prevent future issues and ensure the property remains in good condition. Home inspectors must navigate a fine balance between thoroughness and practicality, ensuring they provide valuable, actionable information without unnecessarily alarming clients. Their reports can significantly influence buying decisions, making their role critical in the real estate transaction process. Obtaining Certifications and Training Acquire relevant certifications and training from recognized organizations to ensure credibility and competence in the field of home inspection. For instance, the components of a home include electrical, plumbing, foundation, roof, heating/cooling systems and more. The standard for home inspector certification is with the ASHI Certified Inspector (ACI) program. The ASHI certification program establishes a minimum and uniform standard of practice for home inspectors practicing in the United States and Canada. Home Inspections performed according to ASHI Standards of Practice are intended to provide the client with objective information regarding the condition of the systems and components of the home as inspected at the time of the home inspection. You may also require business certifications to operate in your area. For example, you may incorporate a business or look into creating a business entity like an LLC. Then, research business licenses and permits specific to your state and community. Home Inspection Business Plan Develop a comprehensive business plan outlining your goals, target market, services offered, pricing strategy, and marketing approach to guide your business operations. You should also choose a business structure, which typically is the Limited Liability Corporation, or LLC. Home Inspection Business Startup Costs Starting a home inspection business involves various initial costs that are essential for setting up a professional, reliable service. So how much does it cost to start a business in this industry? These costs can vary widely depending on the region, the scale of the business, and the specific services offered. Here’s a breakdown of the potential startup costs you might encounter: Equipment: Quality inspection equipment is fundamental to providing thorough and accurate home inspections. Initial equipment costs may include: Inspection Tools: Tools such as moisture meters, infrared cameras, electrical testers, gas leak detectors, flashlights, and ladders are essential. Safety Gear: Protective clothing, respirators, gloves, and safety glasses to ensure safety while inspecting potentially hazardous areas. Software: Inspection reporting software to create professional reports for clients. Insurance: Carrying insurance is crucial for protecting your business and meeting regulatory requirements. Types of insurance to consider include: General Liability Insurance: Protects against claims for property damage or injury that occur as a result of your inspection services. Errors and Omissions (E&O) Insurance: Covers legal fees and damages if a client claims a missed or inaccurate inspection report led to financial loss. Marketing Materials: Effective marketing is essential for attracting clients and establishing your brand. Marketing expenses might include: Branding: Costs for logo design, business cards, and branded clothing. Website: Development and hosting costs for a professional website to showcase your services and contact information. Advertising: Online and traditional advertising costs, including social media, local newspapers, and real estate publications. Licensing Fees: Most regions require home inspectors to be licensed, which involves: Education and Training: Costs for courses and exams necessary to meet licensing requirements. License Application Fees: Fees associated with applying for and renewing your home inspection license. Vehicle Expenses: Reliable transportation is necessary to travel between inspection sites. Consider the cost of: Vehicle Purchase or Lease: If you don’t already have a suitable vehicle, you’ll need to acquire one that can transport your equipment and present a professional image. Maintenance and Fuel: Regular maintenance and fuel costs to ensure your vehicle remains reliable. Professional Memberships and Continuing Education: Becoming a member of a professional organization can boost your credibility and offer valuable networking opportunities. Potential costs may include: Membership Fees: Annual fees for memberships in professional home inspector associations. Continuing Education: Costs for ongoing education to maintain your license and stay updated on industry standards and practices. When planning your startup budget, it’s essential to account for these costs to ensure you have the financial resources needed to launch and sustain your home inspection business successfully. It’s also wise to set aside some contingency funds to cover unexpected expenses as you get your business off the ground. Cost CategoryDetails Equipment- Inspection tools: Moisture meters, infrared cameras, electrical testers, etc. - Safety gear: Protective clothing, respirators, gloves, safety glasses. - Software: Inspection reporting software. Insurance- General Liability Insurance: Coverage for property damage or injuries. - Errors and Omissions Insurance: Protection against claims of inaccurate inspections. Marketing Materials- Branding: Logo design, business cards, branded clothing. - Website: Development and hosting for a professional website. - Advertising: Costs for online and traditional advertising, including social media and local publications. Licensing Fees- Education and Training: Courses and exams for licensing requirements. - License Application Fees: Fees for applying for and renewing home inspection licenses. Vehicle Expenses- Vehicle Purchase or Lease: If needed, for reliable transportation. - Maintenance and Fuel: Regular vehicle upkeep and fuel costs. Professional Memberships and Continuing Education- Membership Fees: Annual fees for joining professional home inspector associations. - Continuing Education: Costs for courses to maintain licenses and stay updated on industry practices. Setting Up a Business Bank Account for Your Home Inspection Business Open a dedicated business bank account to effectively manage your finances and ensure a clear distinction between personal and business expenses. Your local financial institution or chamber of commerce can guide you through how to open a business bank account. Navigating Self-Employment Taxes Unless you are hired by a company to work as a home inspector, if you work for yourself you must pay self employment taxes. Familiarize yourself with the tax obligations and responsibilities associated with being self-employed, including income tax, self-employment tax, and potential deductions. How to Market a Home Inspection Business Marketing is an essential part of learning how to start a business in this industry. Develop a marketing strategy to promote your services, utilizing online platforms, networking, referrals, and targeted advertising to reach potential clients. Building Your Client Base for a Successful Home Inspection Business Building a client base is crucial for the success of a home inspection business. Establishing strong relationships with real estate agents, offering exceptional service to create word-of-mouth referrals, and leveraging online marketing strategies are key steps to attract and retain clients. Providing thorough, reliable inspections and clear, detailed reports can set the foundation for a positive reputation in the industry. To effectively build a client base, consider the following strategies: Network with Real Estate Professionals: Attend local real estate events and meetings. Offer to give presentations or workshops on home inspection topics. Deliver Exceptional Customer Service: Be punctual, professional, and thorough in every inspection. Follow up with clients to ensure their satisfaction and address any concerns. Leverage Online Marketing: Develop a professional website showcasing your services, qualifications, and customer testimonials. Utilize social media platforms to engage with potential clients and share useful content related to home maintenance and inspections. Offer Referral Incentives: Encourage satisfied customers to refer others by offering discounts or other incentives. Join Local Business Groups and Associations: Join local business associations and chambers of commerce to enhance your visibility within the community. Invest in Continuing Education: Stay updated with the latest inspection techniques and regulations to enhance your expertise and credibility. By implementing these strategies, you can steadily grow your client base, enhancing the longevity and success of your home inspection business. Home Inspection Business Cards Create professional business cards that include your contact information, services offered, and branding to leave a lasting impression on potential clients. Home Inspection Business Names Choose a memorable and descriptive name for your home inspection business that reflects your brand identity and resonates with your target market. Scaling and Growing Your Business Explore opportunities for expansion and growth, such as hiring additional inspectors, offering specialized services, or expanding into new geographic areas. Building Your Home Inspection Business Scaling a home inspection business involves expanding its capacity and reach to serve more clients and increase revenue. This expansion requires strategic planning, investment in resources, and the implementation of systems to ensure quality and efficiency as the business grows. Key steps include diversifying services, hiring additional inspectors, leveraging technology for efficiency, and enhancing marketing efforts to reach a wider audience. To successfully scale your home inspection business, consider these strategies: Hire Qualified Inspectors: Recruit and train additional inspectors to increase your business’s capacity to take on more inspections. Diversify Services: Expand your service offerings to include specialized inspections, such as radon, mold, or thermal imaging, to cater to a broader market. Implement Technology Solutions: Invest in advanced inspection software and tools to improve the efficiency and quality of your inspections. Use customer relationship management (CRM) software to manage client interactions and streamline operations. Enhance Marketing Efforts: Develop targeted marketing campaigns to reach new customer segments. Increase your online presence through SEO, content marketing, and social media engagement. Establish Partnerships: Form strategic partnerships with real estate agencies, lenders, and insurance companies to generate referrals and expand your network. Focus on Branding and Customer Experience: Strengthen your brand identity and ensure a consistent, high-quality customer experience across all touchpoints. Invest in Professional Development: Encourage continuous learning and professional development for yourself and your team to stay ahead of industry trends and standards. By carefully executing these strategies, you can effectively scale your home inspection business, leading to increased profitability and a more substantial market presence. Launching Your Home Inspection Business Officially launch your home inspection business by putting your marketing strategies into action, attracting clients, and providing top-notch inspections to build your reputation in the industry. https://youtube.com/watch?v=IXHhQiQZl2I%3Fsi%3DKpj1OTYmw6fg2jI4 FAQs: Home Inspection Business How much do home inspectors make? Is a home inspection business profitable? Yes. Inspector salaries vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and the number of inspections conducted. On average, home inspectors in the United States earn between $50,000 to $80,000 per year. What are the pros and cons of being a home inspector? Pros: Flexible schedule: Home inspectors often have the flexibility to set their own hours and work independently. High demand: With the real estate market constantly active, there is a consistent demand for home inspection services. Opportunities for growth: As you gain experience and build your reputation, there are opportunities to expand your business and increase your income. Cons: Physical demands: Home inspection work can be physically demanding, requiring crawling into tight spaces and climbing ladders. Liability: Home inspectors may face liability risks if they miss significant issues during inspections, leading to potential legal challenges. Inconsistent earnings: The income of a home inspection business can fluctuate significantly, particularly during downturns in the real estate market. AspectProsCons ScheduleFlexible schedule: Ability to set your own hours and work independently.- Market DemandHigh demand: Consistent need for home inspection services due to an active real estate market.Irregular income: Variable income, particularly during slow real estate periods. GrowthOpportunities for growth: Potential to expand business and increase income with experience and reputation.- Physical Work-Physical demands: Requires crawling into tight spaces and climbing ladders. Liability-Liability risks: Potential legal challenges if significant issues are missed during inspections. Why do some home inspection businesses fail? Many home inspection businesses fail due to a lack of marketing and networking. Failure to effectively market services and build a client base can result in a lack of business. Here are the other main reasons: Lack of proper training and qualifications: A deficiency in knowledge or certifications can result in inadequate inspections, ultimately harming the reputation of the home inspection business. Poor customer service: Failing to provide excellent customer service and address client concerns can lead to negative reviews and loss of business. Financial mismanagement: Poor management of finances, underestimating startup expenses, or neglecting to prepare for slow periods can result in financial challenges and ultimately lead to the failure of the home inspection business. What are the key factors in building a successful business in home inspection? A successful home inspection business is known for its exceptional service: Providing thorough and high-quality inspections, accompanied by excellent customer service, is crucial for building a positive reputation and securing repeat business. Here are other factors for success: Marketing and networking: Effective marketing strategies, including online presence, networking with real estate professionals, and word-of-mouth referrals, are essential for attracting clients. Continuous learning: Staying updated on industry trends, regulations, and best practices through ongoing education and training helps maintain credibility and competence. Strong business management: Proper financial management, including budgeting, pricing strategies, and maintaining professional standards, is essential for long-term success. Create these systems on your own, or consider a home inspection franchise that will provide these tools as you get started. Image: Envato Elements This article, "Ride the Boom: How to Start a Home Inspection Business" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

The real estate market is continuing to boom, and with it comes the need for home inspection business owners. The best home inspectors have a blend of characteristics. They must have an entrepreneurial spirit, technical skills, expansive knowledge of house systems and construction, and meticulous attention to detail. The home inspector is a key component of the real estate sales system. It plays a pivotal role in communications between real estate agents and in assisting buyers in making informed decisions about the purchase of a property and its price. Starting Your Own Home Inspection Business: Key Steps These are the key steps you should take in starting your own home inspection company. We’ll tell you everything you need to know, from crafting a business plan and handling startup costs to marketing and growing the business. What Do Home Inspectors Do? Home inspectors play a crucial role in the real estate process, offering services that provide potential buyers, sellers, and property owners with essential information about a property’s condition. Their tasks typically involve a detailed examination of various aspects of a property to ensure its safety, functionality, and overall condition. Here’s a more in-depth look at what home inspectors do: Assess Structural Integrity: Inspect the foundation, walls, floors, roof, and other structural components to identify signs of damage, deterioration, or potential failures that might affect the property’s safety and value. Evaluate Systems and Components: Examine the property’s essential systems, including electrical, plumbing, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, to ensure they are installed correctly and functioning as intended. Inspect Exterior Elements: Check the exterior of the property, including siding, windows, doors, decks, balconies, and other attached or detached structures to identify any issues that could lead to problems or require maintenance. Review Interior Conditions: Evaluate the condition of interior elements such as ceilings, walls, floors, stairs, and installed fixtures to detect any signs of water damage, mold, pests, or other interior deficiencies. Examine Insulation and Ventilation: Inspect insulation quality and ventilation efficiency in attics, crawl spaces, and other areas to ensure proper temperature regulation and moisture control within the property. Create Detailed Inspection Reports: After conducting a thorough inspection, home inspectors must compile their findings into comprehensive reports. These reports should include: Descriptions of Deficiencies: Clearly describe any issues found during the inspection, specifying the location and nature of each problem. Photographic Evidence: Include photographs of noted deficiencies to provide a visual reference that supports the findings in the report. Recommendations for Repairs or Further Evaluation: Propose essential repairs or advise seeking further assessment from specialists, such as a structural engineer or a licensed electrician, for more intricate issues. Provide Maintenance Advice: Offer guidance on regular maintenance practices that can help prevent future issues and ensure the property remains in good condition. Home inspectors must navigate a fine balance between thoroughness and practicality, ensuring they provide valuable, actionable information without unnecessarily alarming clients. Their reports can significantly influence buying decisions, making their role critical in the real estate transaction process. Obtaining Certifications and Training Acquire relevant certifications and training from recognized organizations to ensure credibility and competence in the field of home inspection. For instance, the components of a home include electrical, plumbing, foundation, roof, heating/cooling systems and more. The standard for home inspector certification is with the ASHI Certified Inspector (ACI) program. The ASHI certification program establishes a minimum and uniform standard of practice for home inspectors practicing in the United States and Canada. Home Inspections performed according to ASHI Standards of Practice are intended to provide the client with objective information regarding the condition of the systems and components of the home as inspected at the time of the home inspection. You may also require business certifications to operate in your area. For example, you may incorporate a business or look into creating a business entity like an LLC. Then, research business licenses and permits specific to your state and community. Home Inspection Business Plan Develop a comprehensive business plan outlining your goals, target market, services offered, pricing strategy, and marketing approach to guide your business operations. You should also choose a business structure, which typically is the Limited Liability Corporation, or LLC. Home Inspection Business Startup Costs Starting a home inspection business involves various initial costs that are essential for setting up a professional, reliable service. So how much does it cost to start a business in this industry? These costs can vary widely depending on the region, the scale of the business, and the specific services offered. Here’s a breakdown of the potential startup costs you might encounter: Equipment: Quality inspection equipment is fundamental to providing thorough and accurate home inspections. Initial equipment costs may include: Inspection Tools: Tools such as moisture meters, infrared cameras, electrical testers, gas leak detectors, flashlights, and ladders are essential. Safety Gear: Protective clothing, respirators, gloves, and safety glasses to ensure safety while inspecting potentially hazardous areas. Software: Inspection reporting software to create professional reports for clients. Insurance: Carrying insurance is crucial for protecting your business and meeting regulatory requirements. Types of insurance to consider include: General Liability Insurance: Protects against claims for property damage or injury that occur as a result of your inspection services. Errors and Omissions (E&O) Insurance: Covers legal fees and damages if a client claims a missed or inaccurate inspection report led to financial loss. Marketing Materials: Effective marketing is essential for attracting clients and establishing your brand. Marketing expenses might include: Branding: Costs for logo design, business cards, and branded clothing. Website: Development and hosting costs for a professional website to showcase your services and contact information. Advertising: Online and traditional advertising costs, including social media, local newspapers, and real estate publications. Licensing Fees: Most regions require home inspectors to be licensed, which involves: Education and Training: Costs for courses and exams necessary to meet licensing requirements. License Application Fees: Fees associated with applying for and renewing your home inspection license. Vehicle Expenses: Reliable transportation is necessary to travel between inspection sites. Consider the cost of: Vehicle Purchase or Lease: If you don’t already have a suitable vehicle, you’ll need to acquire one that can transport your equipment and present a professional image. Maintenance and Fuel: Regular maintenance and fuel costs to ensure your vehicle remains reliable. Professional Memberships and Continuing Education: Becoming a member of a professional organization can boost your credibility and offer valuable networking opportunities. Potential costs may include: Membership Fees: Annual fees for memberships in professional home inspector associations. Continuing Education: Costs for ongoing education to maintain your license and stay updated on industry standards and practices. When planning your startup budget, it’s essential to account for these costs to ensure you have the financial resources needed to launch and sustain your home inspection business successfully. It’s also wise to set aside some contingency funds to cover unexpected expenses as you get your business off the ground. Cost CategoryDetails Equipment- Inspection tools: Moisture meters, infrared cameras, electrical testers, etc. - Safety gear: Protective clothing, respirators, gloves, safety glasses. - Software: Inspection reporting software. Insurance- General Liability Insurance: Coverage for property damage or injuries. - Errors and Omissions Insurance: Protection against claims of inaccurate inspections. Marketing Materials- Branding: Logo design, business cards, branded clothing. - Website: Development and hosting for a professional website. - Advertising: Costs for online and traditional advertising, including social media and local publications. Licensing Fees- Education and Training: Courses and exams for licensing requirements. - License Application Fees: Fees for applying for and renewing home inspection licenses. Vehicle Expenses- Vehicle Purchase or Lease: If needed, for reliable transportation. - Maintenance and Fuel: Regular vehicle upkeep and fuel costs. Professional Memberships and Continuing Education- Membership Fees: Annual fees for joining professional home inspector associations. - Continuing Education: Costs for courses to maintain licenses and stay updated on industry practices. Setting Up a Business Bank Account for Your Home Inspection Business Open a dedicated business bank account to effectively manage your finances and ensure a clear distinction between personal and business expenses. Your local financial institution or chamber of commerce can guide you through how to open a business bank account. Navigating Self-Employment Taxes Unless you are hired by a company to work as a home inspector, if you work for yourself you must pay self employment taxes. Familiarize yourself with the tax obligations and responsibilities associated with being self-employed, including income tax, self-employment tax, and potential deductions. How to Market a Home Inspection Business Marketing is an essential part of learning how to start a business in this industry. Develop a marketing strategy to promote your services, utilizing online platforms, networking, referrals, and targeted advertising to reach potential clients. Building Your Client Base for a Successful Home Inspection Business Building a client base is crucial for the success of a home inspection business. Establishing strong relationships with real estate agents, offering exceptional service to create word-of-mouth referrals, and leveraging online marketing strategies are key steps to attract and retain clients. Providing thorough, reliable inspections and clear, detailed reports can set the foundation for a positive reputation in the industry. To effectively build a client base, consider the following strategies: Network with Real Estate Professionals: Attend local real estate events and meetings. Offer to give presentations or workshops on home inspection topics. Deliver Exceptional Customer Service: Be punctual, professional, and thorough in every inspection. Follow up with clients to ensure their satisfaction and address any concerns. Leverage Online Marketing: Develop a professional website showcasing your services, qualifications, and customer testimonials. Utilize social media platforms to engage with potential clients and share useful content related to home maintenance and inspections. Offer Referral Incentives: Encourage satisfied customers to refer others by offering discounts or other incentives. Join Local Business Groups and Associations: Join local business associations and chambers of commerce to enhance your visibility within the community. Invest in Continuing Education: Stay updated with the latest inspection techniques and regulations to enhance your expertise and credibility. By implementing these strategies, you can steadily grow your client base, enhancing the longevity and success of your home inspection business. Home Inspection Business Cards Create professional business cards that include your contact information, services offered, and branding to leave a lasting impression on potential clients. Home Inspection Business Names Choose a memorable and descriptive name for your home inspection business that reflects your brand identity and resonates with your target market. Scaling and Growing Your Business Explore opportunities for expansion and growth, such as hiring additional inspectors, offering specialized services, or expanding into new geographic areas. Building Your Home Inspection Business Scaling a home inspection business involves expanding its capacity and reach to serve more clients and increase revenue. This expansion requires strategic planning, investment in resources, and the implementation of systems to ensure quality and efficiency as the business grows. Key steps include diversifying services, hiring additional inspectors, leveraging technology for efficiency, and enhancing marketing efforts to reach a wider audience. To successfully scale your home inspection business, consider these strategies: Hire Qualified Inspectors: Recruit and train additional inspectors to increase your business’s capacity to take on more inspections. Diversify Services: Expand your service offerings to include specialized inspections, such as radon, mold, or thermal imaging, to cater to a broader market. Implement Technology Solutions: Invest in advanced inspection software and tools to improve the efficiency and quality of your inspections. Use customer relationship management (CRM) software to manage client interactions and streamline operations. Enhance Marketing Efforts: Develop targeted marketing campaigns to reach new customer segments. Increase your online presence through SEO, content marketing, and social media engagement. Establish Partnerships: Form strategic partnerships with real estate agencies, lenders, and insurance companies to generate referrals and expand your network. Focus on Branding and Customer Experience: Strengthen your brand identity and ensure a consistent, high-quality customer experience across all touchpoints. Invest in Professional Development: Encourage continuous learning and professional development for yourself and your team to stay ahead of industry trends and standards. By carefully executing these strategies, you can effectively scale your home inspection business, leading to increased profitability and a more substantial market presence. Launching Your Home Inspection Business Officially launch your home inspection business by putting your marketing strategies into action, attracting clients, and providing top-notch inspections to build your reputation in the industry. https://youtube.com/watch?v=IXHhQiQZl2I%3Fsi%3DKpj1OTYmw6fg2jI4 FAQs: Home Inspection Business How much do home inspectors make? Is a home inspection business profitable? Yes. Inspector salaries vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and the number of inspections conducted. On average, home inspectors in the United States earn between $50,000 to $80,000 per year. What are the pros and cons of being a home inspector? Pros: Flexible schedule: Home inspectors often have the flexibility to set their own hours and work independently. High demand: With the real estate market constantly active, there is a consistent demand for home inspection services. Opportunities for growth: As you gain experience and build your reputation, there are opportunities to expand your business and increase your income. Cons: Physical demands: Home inspection work can be physically demanding, requiring crawling into tight spaces and climbing ladders. Liability: Home inspectors may face liability risks if they miss significant issues during inspections, leading to potential legal challenges. Inconsistent earnings: The income of a home inspection business can fluctuate significantly, particularly during downturns in the real estate market. AspectProsCons ScheduleFlexible schedule: Ability to set your own hours and work independently.- Market DemandHigh demand: Consistent need for home inspection services due to an active real estate market.Irregular income: Variable income, particularly during slow real estate periods. GrowthOpportunities for growth: Potential to expand business and increase income with experience and reputation.- Physical Work-Physical demands: Requires crawling into tight spaces and climbing ladders. Liability-Liability risks: Potential legal challenges if significant issues are missed during inspections. Why do some home inspection businesses fail? Many home inspection businesses fail due to a lack of marketing and networking. Failure to effectively market services and build a client base can result in a lack of business. Here are the other main reasons: Lack of proper training and qualifications: A deficiency in knowledge or certifications can result in inadequate inspections, ultimately harming the reputation of the home inspection business. Poor customer service: Failing to provide excellent customer service and address client concerns can lead to negative reviews and loss of business. Financial mismanagement: Poor management of finances, underestimating startup expenses, or neglecting to prepare for slow periods can result in financial challenges and ultimately lead to the failure of the home inspection business. What are the key factors in building a successful business in home inspection? A successful home inspection business is known for its exceptional service: Providing thorough and high-quality inspections, accompanied by excellent customer service, is crucial for building a positive reputation and securing repeat business. Here are other factors for success: Marketing and networking: Effective marketing strategies, including online presence, networking with real estate professionals, and word-of-mouth referrals, are essential for attracting clients. Continuous learning: Staying updated on industry trends, regulations, and best practices through ongoing education and training helps maintain credibility and competence. Strong business management: Proper financial management, including budgeting, pricing strategies, and maintaining professional standards, is essential for long-term success. Create these systems on your own, or consider a home inspection franchise that will provide these tools as you get started. Image: Envato Elements This article, "Ride the Boom: How to Start a Home Inspection Business" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

If you want to become a faster runner, you’ll probably end up doing a lot of speedwork on a track. Or if you live in a hilly place, you might wish you had a nice flat track to run on. But how do you find one that’s open to the public? Turns out it’s easier than you might think. Many public high school tracks are available for the community to use. Call local schoolsWord of mouth is your best option for finding the best local tracks; guaranteed there are tons of people in your community who know which schools have an open track. You can ask runners, ask parents (they'll know the schools pretty well), or cut out the middleman and call the school. I run on a local school track, and the way I found it was pretty straightforward. I phoned up the nearest high school, and asked whether they had a track that was open to the public. They said yes, so long as I come outside school hours; but they also suggested a different school in the same district whose track has fewer evening events scheduled. That’s the track I now run on most often. I've found that schools don't always put their track policy (or locations!) online, so an old-fashioned phone call really is the quickest way to this information. You can also visit the school in person—after hours, please—and look for signs that say when and whether the track is open to the public. Be aware that there may be track meets, football games, or other activities that use the school facilities even after hours. Usually it's OK to run on the track while a team is practicing on the infield, but if you're not sure, find the coach and ask. (I've only been asked to leave a track once, and the coach was very polite about it, giving me 10 minutes' warning before the team started practicing so I could wrap up that part of my workout.) You can also look up the school's or district's sports schedule, and check before you leave home whether there's an event scheduled for the track that day. Use a track directoryAnother great resource for finding tracks is Run Track Run, which lists tracks and running routes across the U.S. Some of the tracks have information listed, such as the type of surface, whether it’s open to the public, and whether it’s free to use. Local running clubs may also keep their own lists of favorite tracks, trails, and other run-friendly locations. Check maps I opened Google Maps on a random state, searched "high school," and zoomed in on each to see if they had a track. Found this in less than a minute. Credit: Google maps Oval running tracks are easy to spot on maps. I found another track near me just by looking for oval shapes on the Strava global heatmap (it highlights popular running routes). The satellite view on Google Maps is another great way to look for nearby tracks, as I did above. Most regulation-size outdoor running tracks surround a football or soccer field, and they’ll usually be at a school or sometimes a park or community center. They will be an oblong shape, curved around the ends, often with a red rubber surface and white lane lines visible when you zoom in. You may also find non-standard tracks around athletic fields or in parks; they are usually gravel surfaced and may not be a quarter mile exactly; I can think of one that is 0.2 miles, and a few I've seen that are half a mile. While I was traveling, I used maps to find this 1.125-mile running path in a Delaware park that used to be a horse racing track. What are the rules of running on a track?Once you get to the track, you may be a bit confused with all the lines, the people running around, and the presence of written and unwritten rules. There really aren't many points of etiquette to worry about, though. We have a full track etiquette guide here, but here are the main things you need to know: Read the rulesFirst, check for any posted rules or hours. School tracks are often closed to the public during school hours, but that still means evenings, weekends, and holiday breaks are fair game. Don’t expect that every school’s track will always be open, though. Private schools might not open theirs to the public, and public schools may still set a schedule or close the track for events. If the track is part of a park, gym, or community center, check their website or call to confirm who can use the track and when. Stay in your laneOnce you’re there, the most important rule is to stay in your lane (if there are marked lanes). Think of them like lanes on a highway: You can pass somebody if you give them enough room, and you should always look behind you before you change lanes. Don’t block a lane by stopping in the middle; find a spot off the track if you want to sit down to stretch. The faster people will run in the innermost lane, and you can use this lane, too, if you're doing fast sprints. But when you’re walking or warming up, you should stay in the outer lanes. Go the correct directionOn a track, usually everyone runs counter-clockwise (turning left). That's standard for competition, anyway. Some tracks, especially indoor ones, will have a sign posted that on Tuesdays and Thursdays (or whatever), everybody goes the opposite direction for variety. Do what everybody else is doing. If for some reason you feel you must run a different direction than others, make sure to stay to the outside, out of everyone's way. How do you do running workouts on a track?The track is there for anything you’d like to do, so there isn’t a specific procedure. But as a general rule, you’ll break down the work you’d like to do into small, measurable pieces. One lap of a regulation track (measured in the innermost lane) is 400 meters, almost exactly a quarter of a mile. It is totally fine to jog continuously the whole time you’re at the track, but more often people will use the track for interval work. You run fast for a short distance, then either walk to recover or stand around while you catch your breath. Then do another fast interval, and repeat the process until you’re ready to go home. Here’s a beginner-friendly workout you can do your first time on a track: Warm up with four laps around the track (1 mile). This can be a brisk walk, a slow, easy jog, or a mix of the two. You want to finish this step feeling warmed up and ready to work—not exhausted. Walk the curved part of the track (this is about 100 meters). Run the straight part of the track (this is also about 100 meters). Don’t go all-out, just keep up a strong, fast pace. Repeat steps 2 and 3 as many times as desired. One mile’s worth (four laps) will give you eight 100-meter runs, which is a good workout for your first day. You can do more later. Jog at least a lap or two to cool down, more if you like. Runners would call the above workout “8 x 100” since you are doing eight 100-meter runs. (The walking in between is considered the recovery.) Here are common distances for intervals: 100 m (the straightaway of the track) 200 m (the curve plus one straightaway, or half the track) 400 m (one lap) 800 m (two laps) In between the running portions of your workout, you can rest or walk for about the same amount of time it took you to run. For example, if you run a lap (400 meters) in about two minutes, you’d rest another two minutes before going again. View the full article

Fabric and craft retailer Joann Inc. is officially shutting down all of its stores following a turbulent bankruptcy process. The company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in January for the second time in less than a year, initially saying it would keep its stores open while restructuring its debt. However, just weeks after the filing, Joann reversed course and announced it would close 500 of its roughly 800 locations, as Fast Company reported. The closure of those stores was just the beginning. As part of the ongoing bankruptcy proceedings, Joann held an auction on February 21 to sell off its assets. A limited liability company called GA Joann Retail Partnership, which is a subsidiary of “asset disposition” company GA Group, emerged as the winning bidder, and will now oversee the complete liquidation of Joann’s remaining operations. The move is still subject to court approval. What happens next for Joann? A final sale hearing has been scheduled for February 26 in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware. This hearing will formally approve the asset sale, paving the way for the complete wind-down of Joann’s operations across the country. Despite the imminent closures, Joann has assured customers that it will offer substantial discounts during its going-out-of-business sales. These sales will begin immediately at all locations, allowing customers to purchase the remaining inventory at discounted prices. Joann’s website and mobile app will also remain operational, enabling online shoppers to make their final purchases before the company ceases all operations entirely. The end of an era for the crafting community The collapse of the national retail chain marks an end to what was once a dominant force in the fabric and crafting world. Joann had been a go-to retailer for crafters, quilters, and sewing enthusiasts for decades. Its decline underscores the ongoing struggles faced by traditional brick-and-mortar retailers amid rising competition from online stores and shifting consumer habits. Joann’s closing is expected to have lasting effects on crafters, as the retailer’s stores were not only places to shop but also hubs for classes, events, and a sense of community. View the full article

Middle Eastern company has made a fresh approach after walking away from offer last yearView the full article

Starting with the Galaxy S24 series, Samsung has started a big push for Galaxy AI on its devices, adding features like Live Translate and Note Assist to all of its most recent mobile releases. A majority of the time, these AI-powered features are processed in the cloud in order to work more efficiently. However, there is a way for privacy-conscious users that want to try out Galaxy AI's features but don't want their data sent to Samsung's cloud servers to do just that. Here's how to enable on-device processing for Samsung's Galaxy AI features. Why enable on-device processing for Galaxy AI?The biggest reason to enable on-device processing for Galaxy AI is privacy. By having all your interactions with Galaxy AI processed locally on your Galaxy device, it ensures that your data doesn't get seen by anyone else. That includes any hackers who might manage to work their way into Samsung's servers, but as a side bonus, processing locally also means these features will be able to work offline. Samsung's Knox technology and Personal Data Engine are especially helpful here. I'll start with Knox. This is an older security platform aimed at business customers that protects personal data stored on Samsung devices from malicious attacks. Since Knox was first launched, some features have trickled down to Samsung's consumer-facing products such as the Galaxy S phones, and these help keep your local data secure. Meanwhile, Personal Data Engine just launched with the Samsung Galaxy S25 series. This on-device feature analyzes your data from various apps in order to learn your preferences and usage patterns, so then it can be used for AI-powered features without connecting you to the cloud (it also works with cloud-based apps, but that's not quite relevant here). While it might not sound like a feature that collects personal data would help with privacy, all gathered data is encrypted and securely saved using Knox's encryption methods, and it's a decent compromise for getting some more use out of Galaxy AI without sending your data elsewhere. How to enable Galaxy AI on-device processingTo enable Galaxy AI on-device processing, open Settings on your Galaxy phone. Next, scroll down until you find Galaxy AI. At the bottom, you'll see a toggle to Process data only on device. Switch that on, and the following Galaxy AI features will swap over to local processing only: Browsing assist: Summarize, Read highlights aloud Call assist: Live translate Writing assist: Chat translation, Composer, Style and grammar, Suggested replies Interpreter Note assist: Translate, Transcribe Photo assist: Sketch to edit, Portrait studio Transcript assist: Transcribe, Translate, Summary With that, you're now processing locally, although note that note all features, like sketch-to-image, are available offline. Additionally, for the features that do work offline, disabling cloud connectivity might make results slightly slower. View the full article

If you’ve ever felt frustrated by job listings that seem too good to be true or lead nowhere at all, you’re not alone. The truth is, the job market is full of fake postings and ghost jobs that can waste your time or even put you at risk. To help you navigate this confusing landscape, nine experienced experts have shared their advice on red flags to watch out for, so you can differentiate between legitimate opportunities and scams designed to exploit job seekers. Look for salary transparency In my experience, the biggest red flag has nothing to do with the job description or the company website. The real issue shows up when a listing has zero mention of salary—or worse, it dodges the topic altogether. If a job post says something vague like “competitive pay” or “salary dependent on experience” without giving even a basic range, I immediately question whether the company is serious about hiring. A real position has a budget. If a company cannot commit to a number, it probably is not committed to filling the role anytime soon. I have seen roles stay open for six-plus months because companies “want to see what talent is out there” without offering a concrete salary. That being said, the real test happens during the first conversation. If an employer dances around pay or refuses to give a range even when asked, something is off. Avoiding salary discussions leads to drawn-out hiring cycles, wasted interviews, and applicants walking away after weeks of back and forth. Personally, if a company will not disclose a number after the second conversation, I consider that a dead end. The best job listings give at least a range—$65K to $75K, $20 to $25/hour, or even “starting at $80K.” Anything is better than a mystery. Patrick Beltran, marketing director, Ardoz Digital Identify unusual application methods From what I’ve seen, one key indicator that job seekers can use to identify fake or “ghost job” listings is unusual application methods or interview processes. Being able to identify these uncommon practices can serve as red flags, potentially saving candidates time and protecting them from scams. Be cautious of job postings that ask you to apply through non-standard channels. Legit companies typically use official company portals or professional job platforms for applications (for example, LinkedIn, Indeed, Glassdoor, etc). Red flags for application methods include: Requests to apply via personal email addresses (like @gmail.com, @yahoo.com, etc.) Applications through messaging apps or social media platforms Unusual file upload requirements Real companies generally follow standard interview protocols. Be on the lookout for: Interviews conducted entirely via text messaging Unusually short interviews Sudden interview invitations without prior application Requests to download specific messaging apps like Telegram for interviews Some additional warning signs during the interviews could be: Immediate job offers without thorough vetting Overly agreeable interviewers who quickly present offers that sound too good to be true By being vigilant about these unusual practices, job seekers can better protect themselves from potential scams and focus their efforts on real job opportunities. Remember, most reputable companies will conduct initial interactions through professional channels and use standard video conferencing tools for remote interviews. Lisa Frank, marketing specialist, AM Industrial Group Beware of pressure to act quickly One big red flag I’ve noticed with fake or ghost job listings is when there’s an intense sense of urgency. If a recruiter tells you to apply or accept an offer immediately, without giving you time to think or ask questions, that’s a major warning sign. Legitimate companies understand that making career decisions takes time, and they don’t push candidates into rushed commitments. This urgency is often a tactic to catch people off guard, leaving them less time to notice inconsistencies or research the company. For example, I’ve seen postings where they say, “You must confirm today, or the offer will be gone!” That’s just not how real hiring works. When you feel pressured like this, take a step back and ask yourself why they’re in such a hurry. A trustworthy employer will respect your need to evaluate the opportunity and respond on your timeline, not theirs. Always prioritize your due diligence, even if it means walking away. Ani Ghazaryan, head of content marketing, neptune.ai Watch for overpromising job listings A major red flag that job seekers often overlook is job listings that overpromise but under define. If a role boasts unlimited income potential, vague benefits, or rapid career growth but lacks concrete details about daily responsibilities, team structure, or performance expectations, that’s a strong indicator that the listing may be misleading or even nonexistent. Remember that in hiring, clarity is key, legitimate employers know exactly what they need and can articulate it. If a job sounds too good to be true without clear accountability, it likely is. From my experience, a well-structured job posting reflects an organization’s professionalism and operational maturity. Companies with real hiring needs define their expectations, required skills, and key performance indicators clearly. When those elements are missing, it suggests either disorganization or, worse, a bait-and-switch scenario where the role doesn’t truly exist, or the reality of the job is far from what’s being advertised. Another critical factor is the lack of transparency about success metrics and internal structure. If a company cannot outline who the role reports to, how performance is evaluated, or what the first 90 days will entail, it signals potential instability. This could mean unclear leadership, shifting priorities, or a lack of long-term investment in employees. To vet these listings, job seekers should scrutinize the details. Does the job posting explain how success is measured? Is there a clear reporting structure? Are the responsibilities specific, or is it all broad promises? If the listing reads more like a promotional pitch than a structured opportunity, it’s worth questioning whether the job is real, or whether it’s just a tactic to build a talent pipeline without immediate intent to hire. Stephen Greet, CEO and cofounder, BeamJobs Check for clear points of contact Usually, a real job listing includes a clear point of contact. If a posting only provides a generic company email or a web form with no mention of a hiring manager, that is a major concern. A genuine employer will always make it clear who is in charge of recruitment. When there is no name, no department, and no way to confirm who is reviewing applications, there is a good chance the job does not exist. Many applicants send in résumés, receive an automated response, and never hear anything again. This becomes even more obvious during the hiring process. If you get an interview but cannot figure out who is making the hiring decision, that is a red flag. Companies that post fake openings often go through the motions of interviews, wasting time without ever planning to hire. Asking directly who is leading recruitment and when a final decision will be made can provide answers. If those details stay vague or keep changing, there is little reason to believe the job is real. To avoid getting caught up in this cycle, always check if the hiring manager is listed on the company’s website or LinkedIn. If there is no sign of anyone connected to the job, that is a signal to be careful. When reaching out, ask for direct contact with the person making the decision. If a company is serious about hiring, they will be upfront. If they are not, you will save yourself the trouble of chasing something that was never real to begin with. Lucas Botzen, talent acquisition specialist and founder, Rivermate Research company’s online presence Most companies tech savvy enough to utilize online resources for hiring are also likely to have some kind of online presence. It’s not just about a random job posting floating around. You should be able to find them online—like, do they have social media? A blog they actually update? Check out places like LinkedIn or Glassdoor. See what employees are saying or if the company posts anything there. If you can’t find anything recent about them, no updates, or they basically don’t exist online at all, that’s a huge warning sign. These “ghost jobs” often come from companies that are only names on paper (or on a job board), not actual, real businesses. Or sometimes, it’s agencies using fake jobs to collect résumés or contact info. Basically, if a company’s legit, there will be some online buzz about them—more than just one lonely job post. If the job listing doesn’t match up with what you find online, it’s likely a fake. Sha’ Cannon, fractional chief operating officer, Sha’ Cannon Business Solutions Avoid requests for excessive personal information A company that asks for excessive personal information is a big red flag. Legitimate employers do not typically request sensitive details (bank account info, social security number, passport details) in the early stages of the hiring process. If the application requires unusual personal data upfront, it’s likely not legitimate, and applicants should stay away. Any requirement to pay a “training fee” or invest in equipment for a job almost always signals a scam. Trust your gut. Jacquelyn Lloyd, CEO and HR consultant, Jacquelyn Lloyd Consulting Check posting duration One key indicator job seekers can use to discern whether a job is fake or a ghost job is how long it has been posted past its closing date. Job seekers often apply to hundreds of jobs to land one. The numbers game is not just wasting time. It’s also increasing their personal information exposure to scammers as it’s likely that several companies are fake or ghost jobs out of the hundred in a month. In fake and ghost jobs, your personal information is vulnerable to scams or marketers for profit. If it’s a fake job, its legitimacy can often be questioned depending on where it’s posted, who posted it, and how fast the posting disappears. On LinkedIn, fake jobs disappear quickly. The key to discerning the validity is if the company posting is an actual company. Mostly, phony job postings are from fake companies. Job seekers should Google the company and check the website to confirm whether the posting is active. You can also contact the company directly via email or phone to ensure the company is still hiring. You can also search LinkedIn for the recruiter to see if they’ve posted the position. If you confirm that the job posting is real, the company may have hired the candidate but kept the posting past its closing date. Companies use this strategy to fill their pipeline with future candidates. Some companies post their hiring process flow on their website and give applicants options on how the company can use their application or resume information. Options may include information that could only be used for posted positions, the company’s newsletter, or future positions. With the increased use of AI for job postings, there are blurred lines between what’s fake and what’s just a ghost job. While this allows many fake job creations or ghost jobs to save companies money by collecting data, job seekers must research companies deeply to avoid scams and save time applying for jobs. Mark Anthony Dyson, founder, The Voice of Job Seekers Assess job listing quality A key indicator to look out for is the quality of the job listing itself. Often, fake or “ghost” job postings may contain numerous spelling and grammatical errors, overly generic job descriptions, or unrealistic promises such as extremely high pay for minimal experience or effort. Legitimate job postings are usually well-written and provide a clear, realistic description of the role, responsibilities, and qualifications required. If a job ad seems too good to be true or poorly put together, it could very well be a red flag signaling a fake job listing. Gary Edwards, director, Voceer View the full article

More than a dozen frozen supplemental shake products are being recalled over fears that they may be contaminated with a deadly strain of Listeria monocytogenes. The outbreak is so far believed to have hospitalized 37 people and led to the deaths of 11 individuals. Here’s what you need to know about the frozen shake recall. What’s happened? On February 21, food distributor Lyons Magnus issued a voluntary recall of certain ReadyCare and Sysco Imperial Frozen Supplemental Shakes due to fears that they were contaminated with a strain of Listeria monocytogenes. The shakes were manufactured by a Prairie Farms Dairy, Inc. facility in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Lyons Magnus then distributed the shakes to institutional settings, mainly long-term care facilities (LTCF) and hospitals, in numerous states across the country. According to a notice posted by the U.S. Food And Drug Administration (FDA), the agency was notified in November about a Listeria outbreak at multiple LTCF’s. The FDA’s traceback investigation led to Lyons ReadyCare and Sysco Imperial Frozen Supplemental Shakes. Those shakes are now being recalled. What products are being recalled? Seventeen individual shake products are being recalled, according to a notice posted by Lyons Magnus. Those products include the following with select “Best Buy” dates, some of which stretch into next year: ReadyCare Frozen Vanilla Shake ReadyCare Frozen Chocolate Shake ReadyCare Frozen Strawberry Shake ReadyCare Frozen Vanilla Shake NSA ReadyCare Frozen Strawberry Shake NSA ReadyCare Frozen Chocolate Shake Plus ReadyCare Frozen Strawberry Shake Plus ReadyCare Frozen Vanilla Shake Plus ReadyCare Frozen Strawberry Banana Shake NSA ReadyCare Frozen Chocolate Shake NSA Imperial Frozen Vanilla Shake Imperial Frozen Chocolate Shake Imperial Frozen Strawberry Shake Imperial Frozen Vanilla Shake NSA Imperial Frozen Strawberry Shake NSA Imperial Frozen Strawberry Banana Shake NSA Imperial Frozen Chocolate Shake NSA The list of products with exact item numbers and Best Buy dates can be found here. The products come in 4 oz. Cartons. Images of the product packaging can be found here and here. Where were the recalled products sold? The recalled products were not distributed to retailers and sold to the public. Instead, they were distributed to institutions including hospitals and long-term care facilities throughout the United States. Has anyone been harmed from consuming the products? Unfortunately, yes. According to the FDA, the outbreak of this particular strain of Listeria monocytogenes goes back to 2018. Since then, 38 people have been infected—20 of those cases happening in 2024 and 2025. Of the 38 known cases, 37 people have required hospitalization. Unfortunately, 11 people have died. The FDA says that cases have been reported in the following states: Alabama California Colorado Connecticut Florida Illinois Indiana Maryland Michigan Minnesota Missouri North Carolina Nevada New York Ohio Oklahoma Pennsylvania Tennessee Texas Washington West Virginia What is Listeria monocytogenes? Listeria monocytogenes is a bacteria that can cause Listeriosis in people who consume it. People usually get Listeriosis from eating Listeria-contaminated foods. While many healthy adults can contract Listeriosis and recover, the FDA says the disease is more dangerous for certain groups of people, including unborn or newborn babies, people with weakened immune systems, and those over the age of 65. Those last two cohorts are of particular concern with this outbreak as the recalled products were mainly distributed to hospitals and long-term care facilities. There are two main forms of Listeriosis: non-invasive and invasive. What are the symptoms of Listeria monocytogenes? According to the FDA, the symptoms of the more mild non-invasive listeriosis are: fever muscle aches nausea vomiting diarrhea Symptoms of the more problematic invasive listeriosis are: headache stiff neck confusion loss of balance convulsions The FDA says that invasive listeriosis is a potentially life-threatening event, especially in the most at-risk groups. What should I do if I have the recalled products? The good news is that most households should not have any of the recalled products as they were not sold to the public at retailers. However, institutions that may have the products in their possession—including long-term care facilities and hospitals—should not sell or serve the products and should thoroughly clean and sanitize any surfaces or containers they have come into contact with. View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Whatever happened to the erotic thriller? There’s something of a bell curve to the distribution of the subgenre, rising with the relaxing of the production code in the late 1960s, topping out in the ‘80s with prestige fare like Fatal Attraction, and tailing off by the mid-2000s to the dominance of franchise culture. Today’s box office values big-budget, four-quadrant blockbusters, making marketing of films about adult sexuality nearly impossible. Streaming has opened a window for movies that resemble the erotic thrillers of yore, but the kind they used to make—feature lurid hooks and big stars—remain decidedly absent from theaters. (Genre master Adrian Lyne even returned to the director’s chair for the Ben Affleck/Ana de Armas Hulu thriller Deep Water in 2022, which was a welcome—if largely critically reviled—throwback.) Sex on the big screen is creeping back in as the superhero tide recedes, but sex on the big screen is down by nearly half since 2000. Plenty will say that's a good thing; those people are wrong. Yes, there’s plenty to criticize, even in the best examples of the form. The sex is often more titillating than realistic; the movies have also almost always been written and directed by men and emphasized on male perspectives, and many of the women who starred in them didn’t have the best time of it (consider Sharon Stone’s oft-repeated accusations that an iconic nude scene in Basic Instinct involved a nasty bit of trickery from director Paul Verhoeven). It's also very much the case that explicit imagery isn't a requirement for eroticism, as some of these films will show—but we're also not here to be prudish. And yet, it remains curious the way sex seems to have largely vanished from mainstream, theatrically released films. So without further ado, let’s celebrate some of the best—or at least the most interesting—examples of a type of movie that they just don’t make anymore. Dressed to Kill (1980) Any erotic thriller worth its salt pays at least some tribute to Alfred Hitchcock, film noir, or both, and director Brian de Palma set the tone with Dressed to Kill, a juicy mystery involving a sex worker (Nancy Allen) who witnesses a murder and becomes both the prime suspect and the killer’s probable next victim. The style is absolutely delicious, and there’s a reason it started a new trend; the blend of classic tropes and overt sex is almost too hot to handle. Without spoiling too much, though, it very much comes from an era in film when queer representation was limited to absolutely batshit killers, and so loses some points for falling back on lazy (and overused, even in 1980) stereotypes. You can stream Dressed to Kill on Tubi and MGM+ or rent it from Prime Video. Dressed to Kill (1980) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video After Dark, My Sweet (1990)If it weren't for the sweaty couplings between Jason Patric and Rachel Ward, the plot of After Dark, My Sweet would be perfectly befitting that of a classic noir. Patric plays an ex-boxer (and mental hospital escapee) who takes a job fixing up an old house for widow Ward although, naturally, there's more to it—Uncle Bud (Bruce Dern), almost certainly not an uncle, shows up to embroil them all in a kidnapping scheme involving a rich man's kid. Based on the Jim Thompson novel, and almost certainly the purest adaptation of that great crime writer's work, there's a visceral, believable sleaziness here that suits the material perfectly. You can stream After Dark, My Sweet on Tubi or rent it from Prime Video. After Dark, My Sweet (1990) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Dangerous Game (1993) Provocative director Abel Ferrara is best known, perhaps, for Bad Lieutenant, while Madonna's very brief erotic-thriller phase is typically seen to be represented by Body of Evidence. Dangerous Game, though, is better than both of them: brutal and immediate, with a couple of stunning lead performances from Harvey Keitel and Madonna. Keitel plays an indie director increasingly obsessed with the low-budget marital drama he's filming, while Madonna plays a young actress whose confidence is slowly eroded by the role, and by the increasingly unhinged demands of her director. You can stream Dangerous Game on Prime Video and MGM+. Dangerous Game (1993) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Body Double (1984) Though it's far less successful than his earlier Dressed to Kill, Brian de Palma’s Body Double is, in many ways, a better film, upping the sex and violence while also simplifying the plot and narrowing the focus. Craig Wasson plays Scully, a failed actor housesitting in the Hollywood Hills. Bored and looking through the house’s telescope, he spies a beautiful woman and then, of course, witnesses her murder. He winds up a suspect in the case, getting caught up in the world of Hollywood porn when he seeks the help of adult film actress Holly (played by Melanie Griffith in a career-making role) to solve it. There’s nothing particularly sympathetic about Scully—he’s alternately a dupe or a bad decision maker—and that’s as it should be. As with the best classic noir, we’re not cheering for Scully; we’re witnessing his long fall. You can stream Body Double on Tubi and The Criterion Channel or rent it from Prime Video. Body Double (1984) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Eyes Wide Shut (1999) As an erotic thriller, Stanley Kubrick's Eyes Wide Shut is a bit of a bait-and-switch, but just a bit. Teasers promised nothing less than a look inside the bedroom of then-power couple Nicole Kidman and Tom Cruise, with Kubrick doing for cinematic fucking what he'd done for space travel or spooky hotels. And he does, just not in the way we expected: Bill Harford (Cruise) goes on a long night's journey involving murders and sex clubs full of R-rated kink, discovering the dangers of raw titillation and the dehumanizing nature of sexual obsession. For his last film, Kubrick created an erotic thriller that challenges expectations of the genre. You can stream Eyes Wide Shut on The Criterion Channel or rent it from Apple TV+. Eyes Wide Shut (1999) at Apple TV+ Learn More Learn More at Apple TV+ Angel Heart (1987) Mickey Rourke plays private dick Harry Angel, under contract from Robert De Niro’s Louis Cypher to track down an iconic singer who has disappeared. Not only do Angel’s leads keep turning up dead, but he crosses paths with Epiphany Proudfoot (Lisa Bonet), daughter of the singer, with whom he has enjoys some memorably rough sex. There’s a ton of style and eroticism on display, as well as a questionable voodoo aesthetic, but the film is memorable for its blend of tones and for the performances, particularly those of Bonet and Rourke. You can rent Angel Heart from Prime Video. Angel Heart (1987) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video 9 1/2 Weeks (1986) The movie that helped to propel director Adrian Lyne (Fatal Attraction, Indecent Proposal, Unfaithful, and 2022's Deep Water) to fame was also co-written by Zalman King of Red Shoe Diaries fame. In that, it represents a team-up of erotic thriller royalty that’s still mostly effective because of the performances from an early-career Mickey Rourke and Kim Basinger. Very much the Fifty Shades of Grey of its era (except with actual heat), Rourke plays a Wall Street trader who leads Basinger’s art gallery assistant down an increasingly kinky road. Rourke, by then at a much different place in his career, starred in a direct-to-video sequel in 1997, but kept away from 1998's similarly low-rent prequel. Which is all to say that you could spend a fair bit of time in the steamy 9 1/2 Weeks-verse if you are so inclined. You can rent 9 1/2 Weeks from Prime Video. 9 1/2 Weeks (1986) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Fatal Attraction (1987) Elements of Fatal Attraction aren’t nearly as appealing today as they were three decades ago, but it remains a taut, suspenseful thriller that brought its adult sexuality (including a memorably awkward bit involving the kitchen sink) all the way to the Oscars; though it didn’t win anything, the movie was nominated in all the top categories. Glenn Close (as femme fatale Alex) is clearly having the time of her life playing an unhinged woman who absolutely loses her shit over married Dan (Michael Douglas). The setup has a strong whiff of “women, amirite?,” but the screenplay is smart enough to recognize that Dan isn’t the hero either, and the two generate real heat. You can stream Fatal Attraction on Paramount+ or rent it from Prime Video. Fatal Attraction (1987) at Paramount+ Learn More Learn More at Paramount+ Trois (2000) What we think of as the erotic thriller genre is overwhelmingly white. Major studios, who had already shown little interest in making films about and marketed for Black people, were clearly even less interested in dealing with sexuality among POC characters. That reticence is a big part of the reason Trois stands out, even though it doesn’t subvert genre tropes in any other way. But it’s also a juicy drama in its own right, about a man who talks his wife into joining him in a threesome, only to discover their choice of a third wasn’t smart. It did respectable business as an independent film, and very well among Black audiences. It spawned two less successful, but generally sweatier, sequels. You can stream Trois on Tubi and Prime Video. Trois (2000) at Prime Video Get Deal Get Deal at Prime Video No Way Out (1987) There’s a lot of Hitchcock in the more overtly sexual thrillers of the ‘80s and ‘90s, reflecting the full expression of the master’s more subdued eroticism (Hitchcock himself seemed eager, at the end of his career, to explore filmmaking with more freedom in movies like Frenzy). Neo-noir No Way Out certainly doesn’t hit the heights of the films that inspired it, but does make a lot out of a twisty-turny plot involving a love triangle between Kevin Costner, Sean Young, and Gene Hackman(!) and a murder for which Costner is the chief investigator—and also the prime suspect. It’s not the hottest movie of the era, but there’s real chemistry at work, as Costner’s all-American charm plays well against Young at her early-career peak—and before Hollywood misogyny shoved her aside. You can stream No Way Out on Tubi and MGM+ or rent it from Prime Video. No Way Out (1987) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Bad Influence (1990) The female characters in this Curtis Hanson film are almost entirely incidental, if you couldn’t tell from the poster, which features Rob Lowe, James Spader, and a nondescript woman whose face we don’t see. Nebbishy Michael (James Spader) starts palling around with more experienced Alex (Rob Lowe), going on adventures involving sex, drugs, and light crime. Which is all fine and fun, until Michael realizes thrill-loving Alex is 100% going to get him killed. The movie loses points for a lack of substantive female presence (and for being a creepy choice for a comeback following Lowe’s teenage sex tape scandal), but stands out by focusing its sexual chemistry around the two mismatched leading men. You can stream Bad Influence on Pluto TV. Bad Influence (1990) at Pluto TV Learn More Learn More at Pluto TV Basic Instinct (1992) A genuine pop-culture phenomenon as much for its controversies as for its quality, Basic Instinct nabbed a couple of Academy Award nominations as well as plenty of appreciation for Sharon Stone’s career-making performance. Director Paul Verhoeven (Showgirls) knows all about elevating lurid material to the level of art, or at least camp, so the movie works even though its central mystery doesn’t make much sense. Michael Douglas plays a police detective investigating a murder who gets caught up in a torrid, occasionally kinky affair with the prime suspect Catherine Tramell (Stone). The bisexual serial killer angle was already a tired trope by the time of the movie’s release, but there’s no question that Catherine Tramell is a memorable (and, I suppose, sex-positive) villain. Stone participated in the big budget, entirely forgettable 2006 sequel. You can stream Basic Instinct on Paramount+ and Pluto TV or rent it from Prime Video. Basic Instinct (1992) at Paramount+ Learn More Learn More at Paramount+ Knife + Heart (2018) There are layers upon layers in director Yann Gonzalez’s slick and stylish slasher set in the world of ‘70s gay porn. Anne Parèze (Vanessa Paradis) runs a production company that makes the exploitation movies Knife + Heart centers on, but the series of murders that occurs on set barely draws the attention of the local police, who aren’t terribly torn up about the deaths of gay porn actors. Anne decides that her next film will be about the murders themselves, unfolding a movie-within-a-movie that only draws the attention of the killer (and his spiked dildo). The movie celebrates giallo, with plenty of deep cuts for fans of classic Italian horror, and ‘70s sleaze more generally. You can stream Knife + Heart on Shudder, Tubi, and AMC+ or rent it from Prime Video. Knife + Heart (2018) Learn More Learn More In the Realm of the Senses (1976) Typically, the erotic thriller tends toward noir and neo-noir sensibilities—but I'm including this Japanese classic of sex, obsession, and severed members because the true-crime inspired story set in the 1930s has all the ingredients even if the setting is a bit further afield than usual. Nagisa Ōshima’s provocative psychosexual story blends a fair bit of un-simulated sex with hints of horror in its tale of love and murder, based on the true story of geisha, sex worker, and unlikely folk hero Sada Abe (flawlessly played by Eiko Matsuda). It’s a beautifully hypnotic and appropriately titled film that culminates in a genuinely shocking act of violence. The original X rating was updated to an NC-17 in 1991. You can stream In the Realm of the Senses on The Criterion Channel. In the Realm of the Senses (1976) at The Criterion Channel Learn More Learn More at The Criterion Channel Single White Female (1992) The elevator pitch is solid enough that the term “single white female” remains in the pop culture lexicon—Allie (Bridget Fonda), searching for a roommate, takes in Hedy (Jennifer Jason Leigh), who becomes so obsessed with her new landlord that she wants to become her. On those terms, it’s effective, though it’s a bit more troubling than you might remember: Hedy was the latest and possibly greatest in a long line of unhinged, murderous lesbians (a gay sex scene is shot like we’re suddenly in a horror movie). The movie also suggests, as so many movies still do, that female friends are always one step away from killing each other. Still, it’s stylishly made, surprisingly funny, and features two great central performances. You can rent Single White Female from Apple TV+. Single White Female (1992) at Apple TV+ Learn More Learn More at Apple TV+ The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999) There's nothing at all explicit here, but that's not a particular requirement: This one's all sublimated longing in the sweaty Mediterranean, this adaption bringing the subtext (barely) of Patricia Highsmith's novel to the fore like no adaptation before or since. Sociopathic con artist Tom Ripley (Matt Damon) develops an obsession with Jude Law's Dickie Greenleaf, wanting to be with him every bit as much as he wants to be him. The resulting relationship is far less than healthy, particularly for Dickie. You can stream The Talented Mr. Ripley on Paramount+ or rent it from Prime Video. The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999) at Paramount+ Learn More Learn More at Paramount+ Cruising (1980) There was a lot of controversy surrounding Cruising when it was first released back in 1980: what was, perhaps, an earnest attempt on William Friedkin's part to explore S&M and leather culture in an era just before the HIV/AIDS crisis comes across as entirely unhinged—which is, frankly, part of its charm. Al Pacino plays Detective Steve Burns, assigned to go undercover and hunt down whoever is killing gay men in this New York subculture. There are things that the movie gets right, but we're also meant to share Burns' fascination and occasional horror with this secret world (which emotion is he feeling during a fisting scene?). Viewed as a giallo-esque murder mystery, nonsensical twists included, it's a bit of fun with an impressive array of male nudity. You can rent Cruising from Prime Video. Cruising (1980) Learn More Learn More Indecent Proposal (1993) Another one that found a weird place in the early ‘90s pop-culture zeitgeist, this Adrian Lyne drama asks what would happen if Robert Redford made a play for your spouse, backing up his offer to the tune of a cool $1 million. In a 2022 world of greater fluidity in relationships, the answer would be either more or less complicated; in 1993 it was scandalous. You can stream Indecent Proposal on Paramount+ or rent it from Prime Video. Indecent Proposal (1993) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Lust, Caution (2007) Based, very roughly, on a true story, Ang Lee's film finds a group of Chinese students from the University of Hong Kong who plot to kill a special agent in Hong Kong of 1938. Tang Wei stars as the young woman assigned to get close to their prey as part of a honey trap but who, you might not be surprised to learn, develops both emotional and sexual feelings for her quarry (Tony Leung Chiu-wai). When the plan fails, the two are reunited a few years after the war and continue their dance despite very different circumstances. Though the film is a spy thriller, in a sense, the tone is languid and sweaty, the focus always on these two characters and their passionate, dangerous affair. You can rent Lust, Caution from Apple TV. Lust, Caution (2007) at Apple TV Learn More Learn More at Apple TV Mulholland Drive (2001) Mulholland Drive follows "Rita" (Laura Herring), an actress who suffers from amnesia following a Los Angeles car crash, and who stumbles into a wholesome mid-western transplant (Naomi Watts) setting out to become a star. The two try to uncover Rita's true identity, before engaging in some undeniably hot sex. The moment of intimacy becomes a turning point in the film, after which the walls of reality break down and we enter a world that's more explicitly noir and that borders on horror. You can stream Mulholland Drive on The Criterion Channel or rent it from Prime Video. Mulholland Drive (2001) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video The Last Seduction (1994) Linda Fiorentino plays one of the all-time great femmes fatale in this film about a woman looking to get out of her unhappy marriage. First convincing her husband (Bill Pullman) to sell cocaine (as one does), she creates sort of a pyramid scheme of seductions, with the goal of eventually circling back around to someone murdering her husband. Fiorentino’s character is so good, and so well-written, that we’re rooting for her the whole time. You can stream The Last Seduction on Prime Video, Peacock, Tubi, Pluto TV, and The Criterion Channel. The Last Seduction (1994) at Peacock Learn More Learn More at Peacock Bound (1996) The movie that introduced the world to the Wachowskis came along at exactly the right moment: Independent films were starting to have an impact on mainstream audiences and queer content was beginning to nudge its way into movies made for wide release. It doesn’t hurt that Bound is an incredibly sexy—and clever—Billy Wilder-inspired neo-noir. Gina Gershon and Jennifer Tilly are one of cinema’s all-time power couples; where the erotic thriller genre would tend toward lesbian exploitation, the presence of feminist sex educator Susie Bright and the two not-yet-out trans women behind the camera dodge those tropes almost entirely. You can stream Bound on Pluto TV or rent it from Prime Video. Bound (1996) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Love Lies Bleeding (2024) Kristen Stewart plays tough gym manager Lou, daughter of a (very small town) local crime lord who runs, guns, and dumps bodies in a local ravine. Into town one day comes bodybuilder Jackie (Katy O’Brian), just stopping over until she meets Lou, the two forming an explosive couple who alternate between doing steroids and fucking as the plot draws them further into a high-stakes, high-intensity world of sweaty neo-noir. You can stream Love Lies Bleeding on Max or rent it from Prime Video. Love Lies Bleeding (2024) at Max Learn More Learn More at Max Body Heat (1981) Kathleen Turner stars in Lawrence Kasdan's essential neo-noir as a top-tier femme fatale—matching the energy of Barbara Stanwyck in Double Indemnity, on which this is loosely based, but wearing a lot less clothing. She plays the wife of a wealthy businessman who entangles William Hurt in a plot (involving Mickey Rourke) to murder her husband and run away together (he thinks). The sex here is all part of the game that she's playing with William Hurt, even as he thinks that he's the one toying with her. You can rent Body Heat from Prime Video. Body Heat (1981) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Color of Night (1994) I'm not here to make the case that Color of Night is a brilliant bit of filmmaking. It's pretty silly, honestly, but it's never less than entertaining, playing like a burlesque on the erotic thriller genre (I think unintentionally?), including some memorably risqué sex scenes. Bruce Willis plays Dr. Bill Capa, who witnesses a bloody tragedy after which he can no longer see the color red. A trip to LA to get away from it all proves to be a bad idea after he's dragged into the mystery of his friend's murder and begins an affair with the mysterious Rose (Jane March). The impressive supporting cast includes Rubén Blades, Lesley Ann Warren, and Scott Bakula. You can rent Color of Night from Prime Video. Color of Night (1994) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Obsessed (2009) As I think we've established by this point, there are erotic thrillers that serve as legitimate cinema and others that function very ably as guilty pleasures. While the very best can do both, there's something to be said for a movie that's both horny and a little goofy. That's Obsessed, which finds a successful Black couple absolutely terrorized by an unhinged and desperately horny white lady (Ali Larter) from work. One reason this works—maybe the only reason—is in the wild lead casting of Beyoncé and Idris Elba. Not to spoil too much, but a climactic fight between Beyoncé and Larter's character won the MTV Award for Best Fight. You can stream Obsessed on Netflix or rent it from Prime Video. Obsessed (2009) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Vertigo (1958) Alfred Hitchcock inspired much of the erotic thriller genre, even if he mostly worked in an era requiring a bit more subtlety—of which he was not a huge fan, pushing those boundaries as hard as possible at every opportunity. Vertigo, while being in no way explicit, is among his most erotic films—and most disturbing. James Stewart plays Scottie Ferguson, a retired cop hired to follow the wife of an old friend, fearing for her mental state. Scottie falls for Madeleine (Kim Novak) before she falls to her death. When the now clinically depressed Scottie meets her lookalike, his obsession leads her to remake the woman in the perfect image of Madeleine. You can stream Vertigo on The Criterion Channel or rent it from Prime Video. Vertigo (1958) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Dead Ringers (1988) David Cronenberg followed up The Fly with this similarly disturbing bit of psychological fuckery. Jeremy Irons plays both twin gynecologists Beverly and Elliot Mantle, the more outgoing Elliot seducing women and passing them off to shy Beverly. It all works well (for the creepy brothers), until Beverly develops feelings for Claire (Geneviève Bujold), throwing a wrench in the brothers' relationship. Other films of the era might have played this for titillation, but David Cronenberg is fully aware of how unnerving the whole thing is, allowing the movie to slide into something very like horror before the final act. You can stream Dead Ringers on Prime Video, Peacock, and Pluto TV. Dead Ringers (1988) at Peacock Learn More Learn More at Peacock The Handmaiden (2016) Best known for stylish, over-the-top violent thrillers like Oldboy and Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance, director Park Chan-wook turned his talent for beautiful excess to the genre in question, crafting one of the best, and perviest, examples of the form. Set in Korea under Japanese occupation in the 1930s, the film follows thief Sookee (Kim Tae-ri) as she plots to swindle a wealthy heiress (Kim Min-hee) by becoming her handmaiden, but complications ensue once she develops feelings for her mark. Twist follows twist as sex and romance lead to violence and betrayal—which is all exactly what we sat down for. You can stream The Handmaiden on Prime Video. The Handmaiden (2016) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Wild Things (1998) Depending on the viewer, Wild Things is either complete trash or a glorious ode to trash (not the only film on this list to blur that line, obviously). The plot kicks off with an uncomfortable bit about a false rape allegation, but continues on with a seemingly endless string of turnabouts and red herrings involving a trio comprised of Matt Dillon, Neve Campbell, and Denise Richards. Hardly a scene goes by during which there isn’t some new revelation, building out a love triangle that becomes a love quadrangle (at least) with the addition of Kevin Bacon, who offers up some memorable, and rare-for-the-genre, male nudity. You can rent Wild Things from Prime Video. Wild Things (1998) Learn More Learn More Cruel Intentions (1999) “Adultness” is almost a defining quality of erotic films, which is why Cruel Intentions plays almost as much as an underage parody of the genre as it does a thriller in its own right. It’s also a teenage take on the French novel Les Liaisons dangereuses, already adapted as Dangerous Liaisons and Valmont—which is all to say there’s a lot to unpack here. Or perhaps you’re better just enjoying this cult classic as the juicy, intentionally trashy bit of fun that it is. Reese Witherspoon plays Annette, who intends to stay “pure” until her marriage, which, good luck in the face of the horny, scheming pair played by Sarah Michelle Gellar and Ryan Phillippe. You can rent Cruel Intentions from Prime Video. Cruel Intentions (1999) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Unfaithful (2002) Just as director Adrian Lyne ushered in the genre’s golden age, he popped by to see it off with Unfaithful, a thriller with a setup that’s made clear from the title: Diane Lane plays a bored wife to Richard Gere, by chance meeting a man who she winds up having an affair with. Annnnndddd cue the inevitable murder. It’s middling on the whole, but worth it for Lane’s Academy Award-nominated performance. You can rent Unfaithful from Prime Video. Unfaithful (2002) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Stranger By the Lake (2013) Erotic thrillers peaked in the ‘90s, and had largely died out (beyond the direct-to-video market) around the turn of the century, so much so that this 2013 French film plays like an homage to an older form, in much the same way that some of the better thrillers of the ‘80s paid tribute to film noir. Here, Pierre Deladonchamps plays Franck, a regular visitor to a nude beach and the surrounding woods, both popular cruising spots. Franck begins a passionate relationship (meaning: lots of sex in the woods) with Michel (Christophe Paou), who Franck later spots drowning someone in the lake. As the investigation into that event heats up, Franck finds himself struggling to give up a good thing, even in the face of murder. As with the lead in any good erotic thrillers, the better the sex, the more Franck will risk. You can rent Stranger by the Lake from Prime Video. Stranger By the Lake (2013) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Deep Water (2022) Adrian Lyne (9½ Weeks, Fatal Attraction, and Indecent Proposal) returned to the director’s chair after an absence of two decades for this Hulu original. Ben Affleck is probably a rough equivalent in star power and sex appeal to the male leads of yore, and Ana de Armas is a good choice as a co-lead, even if the casting does remind us that age gaps in these movies will always favor the idea of an older man with a significantly younger woman. Here, Affleck’s Vic agrees to overlook his wife’s string of affairs in order to preserve his marriage, but then becomes the prime suspect when her lovers start turning up dead. It’s a solid setup (taken from a Patricia Highsmith novel) that doesn’t quite connect, but still serves as a reminder that there's a bit of life in a time-honored genre. You can stream Deep Water on Hulu. Deep Water (2022) at Hulu Learn More Learn More at Hulu Saltburn (2023) Yes, it plays a bit like The Talented Mr. Ripley sans subtext—but maybe we're past subtext at this point. Scholarship kid Oliver Quick (Barry Keoghan) weasels his way into the life of the popular, handsome, and impressively wealthy Felix Catton (Jacob Elordi). Oliver is there to take everything he can, but he's also genuinely obsessed with Felix, building to romantic moments in a bathtub, and over an open grave. If Oliver can't have Felix and his lavish life and palatial estate, he'll take the second one, thanks. You can stream Saltburn on Prime Video. Saltburn (2023) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video View the full article

In today’s fast-paced, ever-evolving retail landscape, small business owners must keep a keen eye on the latest trends, insights, and other consumer statistics to stay competitive and informed. Understanding retail statistics empowers small business owners to make data-driven decisions that can optimize their operations, enhance customer experience, and, ultimately, drive revenue growth. To give small business owners a head start, we’ve gathered information on crucial aspects of the retail industry, including consumer behavior, sales strategies, e-commerce, and brick-and-mortar trends. By staying updated with these retail stats, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the complex world of retail, adapt your business strategies, and capitalize on new opportunities as they arise. Overview of the Retail Market A retail market overview helps small business owners understand the industry’s current state, trends, opportunities and challenges. The following statistics offer valuable context that can illuminate the market is direction, providing valuable insights for anyone involved in the retail market. Retail Sales Statistics: A Snapshot Inflation has lowered consumers’ purchasing power despite simultaneous gains in nominal income thanks to the strong labor market. Even though average weekly earnings have increased by 8.3%, real earnings have fallen by 5% during the same timeframe. This lower spending power will negatively impact sales volume. At $45.05 billion in U.S. spending, retail media spending already has far exceeded marketing spend for connected TV, and it’s closing in on traditional TV. In fact, retail media is forecast to grow by more than 20% in the near future, reaching $55.35 billion. Customer experience expectations have never been higher. An astounding 88% of consumers surveyed by Salesforce said the experience a company provides is just as important as its products or services. According to the National Retail Federation, total retail sales are projected to grow between 4% and 6% over previous levels, reaching between $5.1 and $5.2 trillion. In the prior period, annual retail sales increased by 7% compared to the year before, totaling $4.9 trillion. This growth rate surpasses the average annual retail sales growth of 3.6% noted before the pandemic. The Shift from Brick-and-Mortar to Online Shopping Even when customers make a purchase at a brick-and-mortar store, they rely on digital marketing to influence their buying decisions. According to one survey, 59% of in-store shoppers conduct online research prior to purchasing. Likewise, almost two-thirds of shoppers use their phones in-store for reasons including price comparisons, product reviews, advice from friends or family, and product demonstration videos. The same BazaarVoice survey found that 80% of retail shoppers are more likely to buy in-store when the item has a higher price, while 54% say they visit a brick-and-mortar store to check a product’s quality, and 46% say they prefer shopping in-store for instant ownership. It’s too soon for retailers to cease their brock-and-mortar marketing efforts, however. According to a survey of 19,000 consumers, one in four consumers chooses a hybrid shopping experience, mixing physical and digital channels Meanwhile, 72% say they prefer the physical store for all or part of their buying journey. Surprisingly, 81% of Gen Z consumers prefer to shop in brick-and-mortar stores to discover new products, and more than half of them say in-store browsing is a way to disconnect from the digital world. Retail Market Segmentation Retail market segmentation is essential in understanding the diverse range of customer needs, preferences, and purchasing habits. The following facts delve into this crucial aspect of the global retail industry, shedding light on various segments and offering valuable insights to inform targeted marketing strategies and product offerings. Product Category Retail Statistics Motor vehicles and auto parts, as well as food and beverages—two categories with historically low levels of online purchases—are the fastest-growing product categories in e-commerce, no doubt a result of pandemic-related buying behaviors’ lasting effects. Home and kitchen is the most popular product category at Amazon, followed by beauty and personal care, fashion apparel, then toys and games. Because of high competition among sellers with the e-commerce giant, more saturated product categories will have higher advertising costs. Fashion is the most popular online shopping category by global retail e-commerce sales, and it’s expected to reach $990 billion. That represents more than 24% of all retail e-commerce revenue worldwide. Following the fashion product category are electronics, toys, hobbies, and DIY. The most popular online shopping categories in the United States are toys, hobbies, and DIY, with an estimated spending of $258.4 billion, accounting for more than 25% of the projected total U.S. e-commerce revenue. The Geographical Distribution of Retail Sales Of the 9.1 million online retailers around the globe, 2.5 million of them were based in the United States. Among American vendors, 2.1 million sell products on their own e-commerce platforms, 3.2 million sell on Amazon’s marketplace, 110,000 sell through Walmart’s online marketplace, and 317,000 offer items for sale on eBay. Retail statistics show these figures highlight the diverse platforms utilized by online retailers in the U.S. Among global retailers, 48% are based in North America, while 33% come from Europe. The remaining retailers are distributed across the Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the region that includes Africa and the Middle East. Latin American retail markets are witnessing significant revenue growth, increasing by more than 15%. North American retailers, on the other hand, continue to realize the highest return on assets at nearly 9%. Europe is anticipated to capture 39% of the gift retail market primarily because of the gifting culture in countries such as the United Kingdom, Germany, France, and Spain. Common gifts in the region feature photo frames and souvenirs, novelty items, and products that are more environmentally friendly. Online Shopping Statistics As online shopping continues to evolve and shape the retail landscape, it’s paramount that retailers stay abreast of the latest trends. Keep reading to explore the most recent developments in e-commerce and gain valuable insights to help your businesses navigate the ever-changing digital retail environment. Additionally, understanding retail statistics can provide further guidance in this dynamic market. E-commerce Retail Sales Growth There now are more than 2.64 billion online shoppers around the world, a number that represents one of every three people on Earth. Astoundingly, the number of global digital shoppers grew by 80 million consumers recently—a 3.1% increase compared to the previous period. The popularity of online shopping continues to drive growth in the e-commerce sector. More than 79% of buyers shop online at least once a month. Of that group, 27% make online purchases once every two weeks, while 22% shop online once a week. In recent times, there have been 842 million online shoppers in China—a 7.6% increase compared to the previous period. For further evidence of the growth, consider that a decade ago, there were just about 194 million people making online purchases in the world’s most populous nation. When purchasing products from online retailers, 74% of consumers expressed concerns about upfront shipping costs, 68% appreciated free returns and estimated delivery times, 59% were interested in in-stock alerts, and 54% looked for notifications about available inventory. After making an online purchase, 60% of consumers expect same-, next- or two-day delivery, and 58% of those shoppers expect free next-day delivery. Mobile Shopping and Retail Statistics One of the primary reasons for the massive increase in mobile shopping is the increased smartphone use among Chinese consumers. Smart devices and mobile phones are operated by more than 1 billion consumers each day. Nearly half of all U.S. consumers who shop online and choose to pick up their orders in-store end up buying additional items during their visit. Among the 9 million U.S. consumers who collect their online orders on-site, 47% report that they frequently purchase extra items when picking up their online orders. Additionally, 17% indicate that they sometimes buy additional items during their in-store pickups. This results in approximately 5.5 million U.S. consumers who either sometimes, often, or always make extra purchases. When asked about their shopping habits, 54% of smartphone users reported that they enjoy window shopping on their mobile devices. This trend aligns with findings that 77% of smartphone users admit to making impulse purchases on their devices just for fun. Retail Sales Channels Retail sales channels play a vital role in connecting businesses with their customers. If you’re interested in the diverse range of channels in the retail sales industry, keep reading for insights that can help businesses identify the most effective avenues for reaching their target audiences. Multichannel Retail Statistics A physical retail presence can boost online sales by serving as a sort of interactive billboard that inspires trust among would-be buyers. Brands typically receive about 37% more web traffic the quarter following a new brick-and-mortar store’s opening. Retailers benefit when they make returns easy. A significant percentage of retailers accept in-store returns of online purchases – and for a good reason, too. A large portion of online shoppers who return items to physical stores will end up spending their refund while in retail stores. This is supported by retail statistics that highlight the positive impact of streamlined return processes. According to the BazaarVoice Shopper Experience Index, customers who use multiple channels when shopping actually spend more money. On average, they spend about 9% more than customers who only interact with a brand through a single channel. This is reflected in the retail statistics. Omnichannel shopping experiences, such as enabling consumers to buy online and pick up their orders at physical stores, boost store visits by 80%. Google reports that global searches for “along my route” have surged by over 1,000% in recent years, while searches for “curbside pickup” have risen by more than 3,000%. In-Store Shopping vs. Online Retail Sales While the adoption of mobile technology in the e-commerce sphere continues to grow, it has yet to surpass the use of more traditional computers for web-based shopping. The average value of online shopping orders in the United States still is generally higher on desktop than mobile devices. In the recent period, for example, shopping purchases made from a computer had an average value of $155, while mobile orders averaged at just more than $112. Tablet orders had the lowest values, averaging less than $100. According to a Shopify survey conducted by Forrester Consulting, about 46% of retailers are planning to increase their investments in digital channels over the next 12 months. Popular investment categories include company-owned online stores, social commerce, custom mobile apps, and livestream selling. Almost half of American shoppers use their cell phones while in physical stores to find better prices online, according to a Pew Research Center study. Another 12% say they’ve used their phones to pay for an item while shopping in a brick-and-mortar store. Retail Industry Market Trends and Forecasts Understanding market trends and forecasts is essential for staying ahead in the competitive retail landscape. Check out the following statistics that highlight emerging patterns and offer valuable predictions for the future, allowing businesses to make informed strategic decisions and capitalize on new opportunities as they arise. Emerging Retail Industry Market Trends As social media’s evolution continues marching boldly forward, opportunities for retailers also increase. According to a Wakefield Research and Square survey, 81% of retailers are planning to expand the number of digital channels they sell in the next 12 months. TikTok is expected to add nearly 10 million social buyers, which is nearly double the combined increase for Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest. Much of this growth is attributed to the platform’s popularity among the Gen Z demographic, who frequently make social media purchases after discovering products they like. With a recession looming, budget-conscious shoppers are increasingly purchasing private-label products. The sale of private label products outpaces the sales of branded products by 300%. In fact, private-label products drive 17.4% of U.S. grocery sales in. For example, store brands like Walmart’s Great Value and Equate products are purchased by nearly 73% and 51% of customers, respectively. Retailers welcome this trend since their profit margins from private label products can be 25% to 30% higher than those earned by selling branded products. The push for sustainable products and brands is expected to persist, with brands seeking innovative methods to support environmental efforts. Packaging, for instance, may appear to be a practical afterthought to many, yet it can significantly influence consumers’ decisions. In fact, 86% of consumers are more inclined to purchase a product that features sustainable packaging. Retail statistics indicate the importance of this trend. Retail Market Predictions and Outlook Retailers should have a metaverse strategy to succeed as more consumers immerse themselves in the shared, 3D virtual space. However, depending on their target markets, some brands won’t need to invest as heavily as they might have thought. According to recent KPMG research, 56% of U.S. adults are aware of the metaverse, but only 8% actively frequent it. Retailers might have their eyes on Generation Z, but they also should start paying attention to the next group of consumers. Experts report that Generation Alpha, born in the early part of the 2010s, will number more than 2 billion in the near future. These young shoppers already have $360 million in annual disposable income, and they will make up 11% of the global workforce in the coming years. Packaging isn’t the only retail element impacted by environmentally-conscious consumers. The global apparel resale retail market size grew an estimated 30.1% to $182.4 billion recently. The rapid growth is predicted to continue, with a forecast of 85.5% growth over the next few years, reaching $338.4 billion in global apparel resale sales. High levels of inflation are anticipated to persist, which will continue to influence consumer buying behaviors. The Conference Council’s Expectations Index, which measures consumers’ short-term outlooks for income, business, and labor market conditions, decreased from 74 to 68.1. This latest decline signifies that the index has stayed below 80 for 14 months, a threshold linked to recession in the following 12 months. Total Retail Sales and Economic Impact Both retail sales and their economic impact hold significant implications for small businesses and the wider economy. We found even more statistics to showcase the magnitude of retail sales and their influence on economic growth, offering a broader perspective on the sector’s overall relevance and importance. Retail’s Contribution to the Economy After peaking at 6.5%, the retail trade’s contribution toward the U.S. value-added gross domestic product dropped to 5.8%. However, its contribution toward gross GDP increased at an annual rate of 2.6% in the fourth quarter, following a 3.2% increase in the previous quarter. Demonstrating the U.S. economy’s resilience amidst higher borrowing costs, retail sales at the beginning of the year saw the largest rise in nearly two years, propelled by Americans’ increased purchasing of motor vehicles and other goods. Retail sales remain an effective measure of economic conditions. The data also offers a better picture of whether or not consumers are using their discretionary incomes. People simply stopped shopping when the economy collapsed, and retail sales hit 35-year lows. In recent times, more than 21 million people are employed in the retail trade industry. While employment in the industry has averaged 3.6% annualized growth over the past several years, retail trade employment is expected to increase by just 2.6% this year. FAQs: Retail Statistics What are the most important retail statistics for small business owners to know? The most important retail statistics for small business owners to know include total retail sales figures, market trends and forecasts, consumer behavior and preferences, e-commerce growth rates and retail sales channels’ performance. These retail stats provide insights into the retail landscape, helping small business owners make informed decisions about product offerings, marketing strategies and sales channels. Keeping an eye on emerging trends and consumer demands helps small businesses stay competitive and agile in the fast-paced retail environment. How can you monitor retail sales trends in your industry? To stay informed of retail sales trends in your industry, monitor trusted sources, including industry reports, news outlets, and relevant trade publications. Likewise, attending webinars, conferences, and workshops can provide insights into emerging trends and best practices in the retail industry. Leveraging analytics tools to track sales performance, customer preferences, and engagement metrics also can help you identify patterns and make data-driven decisions. What is the future outlook for the retail market, and how can you adapt? The future outlook for the retail market is marked by continued growth in e-commerce, increased emphasis on omnichannel strategies and evolving consumer preferences towards personalized experiences. To adapt, small business owners should focus on optimizing their online presence, investing in mobile and social commerce and embracing data-driven decision-making. By prioritizing customer engagement and personalized marketing efforts, retailers can ensure their products and services cater to their target audiences’ evolving needs. How do in-store and online retail sales compare, and what does this mean for your business? Both in-store and online retail sales contribute significantly to the overall retail landscape, with online sales witnessing rapid growth in recent years. While brick-and-mortar retail stores remain essential for many customers, e-commerce provides convenience, wider product selection, and easy price comparison. For small retailers, this means adopting an omnichannel approach to engage customers across both physical and digital touchpoints. Try to enhance your online presence, optimize mobile experiences and invest in seamless integration between in-store and internet shopping. Also, be sure you continue to focus on offering exceptional customer service, personalized experiences and competitive pricing to stay relevant and attract customers in this evolving retail environment. What are the key retail market trends and technologies that you should be aware of? Key retail market trends and technologies retailers should be aware of include the growth of e-commerce, the rise of omnichannel retail, the importance of personalized marketing, and the increasing influence of social commerce on retail businesses. Technology plays a crucial role in retail, with innovations like artificial intelligence, augmented and virtual reality, as well as mobile payments shaping customer experiences. To stay competitive, familiarize yourself with these trends and technologies and consider integrating relevant solutions into your business operations. How can you find information on global retail sales, and why is it important for your business? Understanding global retail sales is crucial for your business, as it allows you to identify international trends, opportunities, and challenges that may impact your industry. To obtain trustworthy information on global retail sales, consult reputable sources such as market research reports, industry publications, and statistical databases, including those from Statista, eMarketer, and the World Bank. Additionally, keeping up with news outlets and participating in webinars and conferences centered on global retail sales can offer valuable insights. What resources does the National Retail Federation offer to small business owners seeking retail statistics and insights? The National Retail Federation offers a wealth of resources for small business owners seeking out retail industry statistics and insights. The organization’s website features research reports, articles and infographics covering various aspects of the retail industry, including market trends, sales forecasts and consumer behavior. The NRF also hosts events, webinars, and conferences that provide valuable networking and learning opportunities. By joining the NRF, small business owners can gain access to exclusive content, research, and educational resources, empowering them to stay informed about the latest retail developments and make data-driven decisions for their small businesses. Image: Envato Elements This article, "Must-Know Retail Statistics for Small Business Owners" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

In today’s fast-paced, ever-evolving retail landscape, small business owners must keep a keen eye on the latest trends, insights, and other consumer statistics to stay competitive and informed. Understanding retail statistics empowers small business owners to make data-driven decisions that can optimize their operations, enhance customer experience, and, ultimately, drive revenue growth. To give small business owners a head start, we’ve gathered information on crucial aspects of the retail industry, including consumer behavior, sales strategies, e-commerce, and brick-and-mortar trends. By staying updated with these retail stats, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the complex world of retail, adapt your business strategies, and capitalize on new opportunities as they arise. Overview of the Retail Market A retail market overview helps small business owners understand the industry’s current state, trends, opportunities and challenges. The following statistics offer valuable context that can illuminate the market is direction, providing valuable insights for anyone involved in the retail market. Retail Sales Statistics: A Snapshot Inflation has lowered consumers’ purchasing power despite simultaneous gains in nominal income thanks to the strong labor market. Even though average weekly earnings have increased by 8.3%, real earnings have fallen by 5% during the same timeframe. This lower spending power will negatively impact sales volume. At $45.05 billion in U.S. spending, retail media spending already has far exceeded marketing spend for connected TV, and it’s closing in on traditional TV. In fact, retail media is forecast to grow by more than 20% in the near future, reaching $55.35 billion. Customer experience expectations have never been higher. An astounding 88% of consumers surveyed by Salesforce said the experience a company provides is just as important as its products or services. According to the National Retail Federation, total retail sales are projected to grow between 4% and 6% over previous levels, reaching between $5.1 and $5.2 trillion. In the prior period, annual retail sales increased by 7% compared to the year before, totaling $4.9 trillion. This growth rate surpasses the average annual retail sales growth of 3.6% noted before the pandemic. The Shift from Brick-and-Mortar to Online Shopping Even when customers make a purchase at a brick-and-mortar store, they rely on digital marketing to influence their buying decisions. According to one survey, 59% of in-store shoppers conduct online research prior to purchasing. Likewise, almost two-thirds of shoppers use their phones in-store for reasons including price comparisons, product reviews, advice from friends or family, and product demonstration videos. The same BazaarVoice survey found that 80% of retail shoppers are more likely to buy in-store when the item has a higher price, while 54% say they visit a brick-and-mortar store to check a product’s quality, and 46% say they prefer shopping in-store for instant ownership. It’s too soon for retailers to cease their brock-and-mortar marketing efforts, however. According to a survey of 19,000 consumers, one in four consumers chooses a hybrid shopping experience, mixing physical and digital channels Meanwhile, 72% say they prefer the physical store for all or part of their buying journey. Surprisingly, 81% of Gen Z consumers prefer to shop in brick-and-mortar stores to discover new products, and more than half of them say in-store browsing is a way to disconnect from the digital world. Retail Market Segmentation Retail market segmentation is essential in understanding the diverse range of customer needs, preferences, and purchasing habits. The following facts delve into this crucial aspect of the global retail industry, shedding light on various segments and offering valuable insights to inform targeted marketing strategies and product offerings. Product Category Retail Statistics Motor vehicles and auto parts, as well as food and beverages—two categories with historically low levels of online purchases—are the fastest-growing product categories in e-commerce, no doubt a result of pandemic-related buying behaviors’ lasting effects. Home and kitchen is the most popular product category at Amazon, followed by beauty and personal care, fashion apparel, then toys and games. Because of high competition among sellers with the e-commerce giant, more saturated product categories will have higher advertising costs. Fashion is the most popular online shopping category by global retail e-commerce sales, and it’s expected to reach $990 billion. That represents more than 24% of all retail e-commerce revenue worldwide. Following the fashion product category are electronics, toys, hobbies, and DIY. The most popular online shopping categories in the United States are toys, hobbies, and DIY, with an estimated spending of $258.4 billion, accounting for more than 25% of the projected total U.S. e-commerce revenue. The Geographical Distribution of Retail Sales Of the 9.1 million online retailers around the globe, 2.5 million of them were based in the United States. Among American vendors, 2.1 million sell products on their own e-commerce platforms, 3.2 million sell on Amazon’s marketplace, 110,000 sell through Walmart’s online marketplace, and 317,000 offer items for sale on eBay. Retail statistics show these figures highlight the diverse platforms utilized by online retailers in the U.S. Among global retailers, 48% are based in North America, while 33% come from Europe. The remaining retailers are distributed across the Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the region that includes Africa and the Middle East. Latin American retail markets are witnessing significant revenue growth, increasing by more than 15%. North American retailers, on the other hand, continue to realize the highest return on assets at nearly 9%. Europe is anticipated to capture 39% of the gift retail market primarily because of the gifting culture in countries such as the United Kingdom, Germany, France, and Spain. Common gifts in the region feature photo frames and souvenirs, novelty items, and products that are more environmentally friendly. Online Shopping Statistics As online shopping continues to evolve and shape the retail landscape, it’s paramount that retailers stay abreast of the latest trends. Keep reading to explore the most recent developments in e-commerce and gain valuable insights to help your businesses navigate the ever-changing digital retail environment. Additionally, understanding retail statistics can provide further guidance in this dynamic market. E-commerce Retail Sales Growth There now are more than 2.64 billion online shoppers around the world, a number that represents one of every three people on Earth. Astoundingly, the number of global digital shoppers grew by 80 million consumers recently—a 3.1% increase compared to the previous period. The popularity of online shopping continues to drive growth in the e-commerce sector. More than 79% of buyers shop online at least once a month. Of that group, 27% make online purchases once every two weeks, while 22% shop online once a week. In recent times, there have been 842 million online shoppers in China—a 7.6% increase compared to the previous period. For further evidence of the growth, consider that a decade ago, there were just about 194 million people making online purchases in the world’s most populous nation. When purchasing products from online retailers, 74% of consumers expressed concerns about upfront shipping costs, 68% appreciated free returns and estimated delivery times, 59% were interested in in-stock alerts, and 54% looked for notifications about available inventory. After making an online purchase, 60% of consumers expect same-, next- or two-day delivery, and 58% of those shoppers expect free next-day delivery. Mobile Shopping and Retail Statistics One of the primary reasons for the massive increase in mobile shopping is the increased smartphone use among Chinese consumers. Smart devices and mobile phones are operated by more than 1 billion consumers each day. Nearly half of all U.S. consumers who shop online and choose to pick up their orders in-store end up buying additional items during their visit. Among the 9 million U.S. consumers who collect their online orders on-site, 47% report that they frequently purchase extra items when picking up their online orders. Additionally, 17% indicate that they sometimes buy additional items during their in-store pickups. This results in approximately 5.5 million U.S. consumers who either sometimes, often, or always make extra purchases. When asked about their shopping habits, 54% of smartphone users reported that they enjoy window shopping on their mobile devices. This trend aligns with findings that 77% of smartphone users admit to making impulse purchases on their devices just for fun. Retail Sales Channels Retail sales channels play a vital role in connecting businesses with their customers. If you’re interested in the diverse range of channels in the retail sales industry, keep reading for insights that can help businesses identify the most effective avenues for reaching their target audiences. Multichannel Retail Statistics A physical retail presence can boost online sales by serving as a sort of interactive billboard that inspires trust among would-be buyers. Brands typically receive about 37% more web traffic the quarter following a new brick-and-mortar store’s opening. Retailers benefit when they make returns easy. A significant percentage of retailers accept in-store returns of online purchases – and for a good reason, too. A large portion of online shoppers who return items to physical stores will end up spending their refund while in retail stores. This is supported by retail statistics that highlight the positive impact of streamlined return processes. According to the BazaarVoice Shopper Experience Index, customers who use multiple channels when shopping actually spend more money. On average, they spend about 9% more than customers who only interact with a brand through a single channel. This is reflected in the retail statistics. Omnichannel shopping experiences, such as enabling consumers to buy online and pick up their orders at physical stores, boost store visits by 80%. Google reports that global searches for “along my route” have surged by over 1,000% in recent years, while searches for “curbside pickup” have risen by more than 3,000%. In-Store Shopping vs. Online Retail Sales While the adoption of mobile technology in the e-commerce sphere continues to grow, it has yet to surpass the use of more traditional computers for web-based shopping. The average value of online shopping orders in the United States still is generally higher on desktop than mobile devices. In the recent period, for example, shopping purchases made from a computer had an average value of $155, while mobile orders averaged at just more than $112. Tablet orders had the lowest values, averaging less than $100. According to a Shopify survey conducted by Forrester Consulting, about 46% of retailers are planning to increase their investments in digital channels over the next 12 months. Popular investment categories include company-owned online stores, social commerce, custom mobile apps, and livestream selling. Almost half of American shoppers use their cell phones while in physical stores to find better prices online, according to a Pew Research Center study. Another 12% say they’ve used their phones to pay for an item while shopping in a brick-and-mortar store. Retail Industry Market Trends and Forecasts Understanding market trends and forecasts is essential for staying ahead in the competitive retail landscape. Check out the following statistics that highlight emerging patterns and offer valuable predictions for the future, allowing businesses to make informed strategic decisions and capitalize on new opportunities as they arise. Emerging Retail Industry Market Trends As social media’s evolution continues marching boldly forward, opportunities for retailers also increase. According to a Wakefield Research and Square survey, 81% of retailers are planning to expand the number of digital channels they sell in the next 12 months. TikTok is expected to add nearly 10 million social buyers, which is nearly double the combined increase for Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest. Much of this growth is attributed to the platform’s popularity among the Gen Z demographic, who frequently make social media purchases after discovering products they like. With a recession looming, budget-conscious shoppers are increasingly purchasing private-label products. The sale of private label products outpaces the sales of branded products by 300%. In fact, private-label products drive 17.4% of U.S. grocery sales in. For example, store brands like Walmart’s Great Value and Equate products are purchased by nearly 73% and 51% of customers, respectively. Retailers welcome this trend since their profit margins from private label products can be 25% to 30% higher than those earned by selling branded products. The push for sustainable products and brands is expected to persist, with brands seeking innovative methods to support environmental efforts. Packaging, for instance, may appear to be a practical afterthought to many, yet it can significantly influence consumers’ decisions. In fact, 86% of consumers are more inclined to purchase a product that features sustainable packaging. Retail statistics indicate the importance of this trend. Retail Market Predictions and Outlook Retailers should have a metaverse strategy to succeed as more consumers immerse themselves in the shared, 3D virtual space. However, depending on their target markets, some brands won’t need to invest as heavily as they might have thought. According to recent KPMG research, 56% of U.S. adults are aware of the metaverse, but only 8% actively frequent it. Retailers might have their eyes on Generation Z, but they also should start paying attention to the next group of consumers. Experts report that Generation Alpha, born in the early part of the 2010s, will number more than 2 billion in the near future. These young shoppers already have $360 million in annual disposable income, and they will make up 11% of the global workforce in the coming years. Packaging isn’t the only retail element impacted by environmentally-conscious consumers. The global apparel resale retail market size grew an estimated 30.1% to $182.4 billion recently. The rapid growth is predicted to continue, with a forecast of 85.5% growth over the next few years, reaching $338.4 billion in global apparel resale sales. High levels of inflation are anticipated to persist, which will continue to influence consumer buying behaviors. The Conference Council’s Expectations Index, which measures consumers’ short-term outlooks for income, business, and labor market conditions, decreased from 74 to 68.1. This latest decline signifies that the index has stayed below 80 for 14 months, a threshold linked to recession in the following 12 months. Total Retail Sales and Economic Impact Both retail sales and their economic impact hold significant implications for small businesses and the wider economy. We found even more statistics to showcase the magnitude of retail sales and their influence on economic growth, offering a broader perspective on the sector’s overall relevance and importance. Retail’s Contribution to the Economy After peaking at 6.5%, the retail trade’s contribution toward the U.S. value-added gross domestic product dropped to 5.8%. However, its contribution toward gross GDP increased at an annual rate of 2.6% in the fourth quarter, following a 3.2% increase in the previous quarter. Demonstrating the U.S. economy’s resilience amidst higher borrowing costs, retail sales at the beginning of the year saw the largest rise in nearly two years, propelled by Americans’ increased purchasing of motor vehicles and other goods. Retail sales remain an effective measure of economic conditions. The data also offers a better picture of whether or not consumers are using their discretionary incomes. People simply stopped shopping when the economy collapsed, and retail sales hit 35-year lows. In recent times, more than 21 million people are employed in the retail trade industry. While employment in the industry has averaged 3.6% annualized growth over the past several years, retail trade employment is expected to increase by just 2.6% this year. FAQs: Retail Statistics What are the most important retail statistics for small business owners to know? The most important retail statistics for small business owners to know include total retail sales figures, market trends and forecasts, consumer behavior and preferences, e-commerce growth rates and retail sales channels’ performance. These retail stats provide insights into the retail landscape, helping small business owners make informed decisions about product offerings, marketing strategies and sales channels. Keeping an eye on emerging trends and consumer demands helps small businesses stay competitive and agile in the fast-paced retail environment. How can you monitor retail sales trends in your industry? To stay informed of retail sales trends in your industry, monitor trusted sources, including industry reports, news outlets, and relevant trade publications. Likewise, attending webinars, conferences, and workshops can provide insights into emerging trends and best practices in the retail industry. Leveraging analytics tools to track sales performance, customer preferences, and engagement metrics also can help you identify patterns and make data-driven decisions. What is the future outlook for the retail market, and how can you adapt? The future outlook for the retail market is marked by continued growth in e-commerce, increased emphasis on omnichannel strategies and evolving consumer preferences towards personalized experiences. To adapt, small business owners should focus on optimizing their online presence, investing in mobile and social commerce and embracing data-driven decision-making. By prioritizing customer engagement and personalized marketing efforts, retailers can ensure their products and services cater to their target audiences’ evolving needs. How do in-store and online retail sales compare, and what does this mean for your business? Both in-store and online retail sales contribute significantly to the overall retail landscape, with online sales witnessing rapid growth in recent years. While brick-and-mortar retail stores remain essential for many customers, e-commerce provides convenience, wider product selection, and easy price comparison. For small retailers, this means adopting an omnichannel approach to engage customers across both physical and digital touchpoints. Try to enhance your online presence, optimize mobile experiences and invest in seamless integration between in-store and internet shopping. Also, be sure you continue to focus on offering exceptional customer service, personalized experiences and competitive pricing to stay relevant and attract customers in this evolving retail environment. What are the key retail market trends and technologies that you should be aware of? Key retail market trends and technologies retailers should be aware of include the growth of e-commerce, the rise of omnichannel retail, the importance of personalized marketing, and the increasing influence of social commerce on retail businesses. Technology plays a crucial role in retail, with innovations like artificial intelligence, augmented and virtual reality, as well as mobile payments shaping customer experiences. To stay competitive, familiarize yourself with these trends and technologies and consider integrating relevant solutions into your business operations. How can you find information on global retail sales, and why is it important for your business? Understanding global retail sales is crucial for your business, as it allows you to identify international trends, opportunities, and challenges that may impact your industry. To obtain trustworthy information on global retail sales, consult reputable sources such as market research reports, industry publications, and statistical databases, including those from Statista, eMarketer, and the World Bank. Additionally, keeping up with news outlets and participating in webinars and conferences centered on global retail sales can offer valuable insights. What resources does the National Retail Federation offer to small business owners seeking retail statistics and insights? The National Retail Federation offers a wealth of resources for small business owners seeking out retail industry statistics and insights. The organization’s website features research reports, articles and infographics covering various aspects of the retail industry, including market trends, sales forecasts and consumer behavior. The NRF also hosts events, webinars, and conferences that provide valuable networking and learning opportunities. By joining the NRF, small business owners can gain access to exclusive content, research, and educational resources, empowering them to stay informed about the latest retail developments and make data-driven decisions for their small businesses. Image: Envato Elements This article, "Must-Know Retail Statistics for Small Business Owners" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

On Saturday, the Washington Nationals baseball team played their first spring training game of the season. I was listening to the radio call in the background as I went about my day. I also, however, kept an eye on a community blog called Talk Nats. The site moderators had posted an article about today’s game. As play unfolded, a group of Nationals fans gathered in the comment threads to discuss the unfolding action. Much of the discussion focused on specific plays. “Nasty from Ferrer,” noted a commenter, soon after one of the team’s best relief pitchers, Jose Ferrer, struck out two batters. “Looks like we took the Ferreri [sic] out of the garage,” someone else replied. There were also jokes, such as when, early in the game, someone deadpanned: “Anyone who K’s [strikes out] is cut.” As well as more general discussion of the season ahead. If you followed the thread long enough, it became clear that many of the commenters know each other, while others were meeting for the first time. As the game wrapped up, someone mentions that they’re listening from a part of Canada that recently received three feet of snow. Another commentator replied by recalling a trip they took to that same area: “It was amazing.” Ultimately, over 540 comments were left over the duration of an otherwise uneventful, early season exhibition match. I first wrote about Talk Nats in a 2023 article for The New Yorker, titled “We Don’t Need Another Twitter.” In that piece, I was responding specifically to the launch of Meta’s Threads platform, but I had a more general point as well: perhaps it had been a mistake to try to organize the internet’s activity around a small number of massive, privately-controlled platforms, used by hundreds of millions of users all at once. “Forcing millions of people into the same shared conversation is unnatural, requiring aggressive curation that in turn leads to the type of supercharged engagement that seems to leave everyone upset and exhausted,” I wrote. “Aggregation as a goal in this context survives…for the simple reason that it’s lucrative.” Boutique sites like Talk Nats, by contrast, offer something closer to the original vision for the internet, which was more focused on connection and discovery; a place where a baseball fan from Canada could spend an afternoon delighting with a few dozen of his likeminded brethren about a lazy afternoon baseball game in Florida. This is the internet as a source of joy. And it’s the opposite of the giddy paranoia or coldly-optimized numbness delivered on massive platforms like X or TikTok. I was thinking about that New Yorker piece today as I was following the game on Talk Nats. Those ideas, it occurred to me, are even more true right now than they were when I first published them. “I declare the global social space we are building to be naturally independent of the tyrannies you seek to impose on us,” wrote John Perry Barlow in his seminal 1996 document, A Declaration of the Independence of Cyberspace. “You have no moral right to rule us nor do you possess any methods of enforcement we have true reason to fear.” In the thirty years that passed, we have allowed exactly this type of soul-deadening tyranny to take hold of cyberspace — an unavoidable consequence of consolidating this once distributed and quirky medium into a small number of massive platforms. I really enjoyed my time today on Talk Nats. I didn’t come away angry or depressed, and was more uplifted than brought down. Maybe it’s time to declare independence once again. ##### In other news… –> For another take on this same topic, see River Page’s recent Free Press essay, “The Online Right is Building a Monster,” which does a good job of detailing the unsavory dynamics that can arise on massive internet platforms. (His critiques of both the online right and online left hit home in this one.) The solution to the woes Page documents? Stop using these services! –> In the audio world, on Episode 341 of my podcast, released earlier this morning, I extract a lesson about the importance (and difficulty) of fighting overload in our digital world. –> Meanwhile, as long as we’re discussing meaningful online spaces, I’ll point your attention over to The Growth Equation, where my friends Steve and Brad have posted another one of their (rightfully) famed manifestos: “How to Save Youth Sports.” [ read | subscribe ] The post Back to the (Internet) Future appeared first on Cal Newport. View the full article

Europe will have to defend liberal democracy without American supportView the full article

Imposter syndrome, perfectionism and people pleasing are just some of the pervasive norms we’ve come to accept—and even expect—from high-achievers. And when we hear advice about how we can mitigate this internal strife, we hear phrases like ‘fake it to you make it’. All too often, the self-criticism, insecurity, and harsh self-judgement remains. Take for example Sara, a high-achieving marketing director who recently had a major campaign launch falter. When reality fell significantly short of projected targets, she immediately blamed herself. “I spiraled into harsh self-criticism, working excessive hours, and neglecting my wellbeing to try and make up for what we’d lost. I knew I was being too hard on myself—but I thought if I could just push through, I’d be able to salvage some success.” If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Many leaders struggle to show themselves compassion, in part due to the archaic belief that we have to push ourselves harder and harder to achieve results. As a result, we end up tying so much of our self-worth to our outputs, which is a dangerous territory. But research shows that we can achieve incredible results by cultivating self-compassion and fiercely holding ourselves accountable while being kind to ourselves along the way. Self-compassion is not weakness According to leading researcher and editor of the Handbook of Self-Compassion Amy Finlay-Jones, self-compassion is “treating yourself with the same kindness you would offer a dear friend.” And as Finlay-Jones explained to us, an increasing body of research shows that it’s crucial for effective leadership. Don’t confuse self-compassion with self-indulgence or self-care. As Finlay-Jones framed it, self-compassion isn’t “just about being nice to ourselves.” Instead, it’s similar to replacing self-criticism with self-understanding and acknowledging our humanity. She emphasized, “It’s not about letting ourselves off the hook,” but about approaching challenges with a more balanced perspective, which fosters both self-kindness and a commitment to growth. Resilience through self-compassion Studies show that leaders who are self-compassionate are better equipped to handle stress, navigate setbacks. They also create a more supportive team environment. That’s because self-compassionate leaders have increased emotional regulation which reduces the likelihood of burnout and fosters work environments that are positive and nurturing. Leaders who cultivate self-compassion are also better equipped to handle setbacks and support their teams through adversity because they possess a stronger ability to “take accountability for their behavior, for their lives,” Finlay-Jones explained. Leaders who are highly self-critical, on the other hand, are more likely to project blame elsewhere out of insecurity and fear or failure. Reap the benefits of self-compassion When leaders show themselves a lack of compassion, like Sara did, it often leads to counterproductive behaviors and undesirable outcomes for themselves and their teams. In contrast, self-compassion can lead to the following benefits, which extends beyond the individual: Better emotional regulation: Self-compassion improves emotional regulation, which is crucial for leaders facing stressful situations. Finlay-Jones emphasized the importance of “being aware of how we’re feeling during times of difficulty and really being curious about our emotions and our experiences.” This allows leaders to manage their emotional responses more effectively, which prevents impulsive decisions. Reduced burnout and increased resilience: The relentless demands of leadership often lead to burnout. However, self-compassion acts as a buffer against this. By treating themselves with kindness and understanding, leaders can prevent the downward spiral of self-criticism and exhaustion. This allows for a more compassionate response to setbacks. Improved decision-making: Interestingly, when faced with difficult decisions, self-compassionate leaders are less likely to succumb to emotional biases and more likely to consider multiple perspectives. Stronger team dynamics and increased collaboration: By modeling self-compassionate behaviors, leaders encourage open communication, mutual respect, and a shared sense of purpose. Finlay-Jones shares that self-compassion can contribute to a leader’s ability to create “a culture of psychological safety” where team members feel safe to make mistakes and learn from them. Enhanced ethical leadership: Self-compassion promotes ethical leadership by encouraging leaders to prioritize the individual wellbeing of their teams and make decisions based on empathy and fairness. Leaders who practice self-compassion are better at recognizing and addressing issues of injustice and inequality. 4 ways to improve your self-compassion If you’re looking for ways to bolster your self-compassion and improve your leadership, you might want to consider the following practices: Cultivate mindfulness: This involves developing the ability to observe your thoughts and emotions without judgment. Recognize them as transient experiences rather than fixed realities. Says Finlay-Jones, “It’s about being aware of how we’re feeling during times of difficulty, and really being curious about our emotions and our experiences.” Embrace shared humanity: An important component of self-compassion is understanding that we’re not alone in our struggles. On the contrary, even for leaders, setbacks and difficult emotions are a universal part of the human experience. This perspective shifts the focus from flagellating yourself with blame, judgement and even shame, to a more compassionate understanding of what you’re going through. Practice self-kindness: Imagine your dearest friend, a child or another loved one. Now imagine extending the same empathy, understanding, and compassion to yourself that would extend to that person. What would that look and feel like? What language or gestures would you use to demonstrate your empathy, understanding and compassion towards that person? How might it feel to direct that language and those gestures of kindness towards yourself? Establish healthy boundaries: Many people struggle to extend kindness to themselves. The “yin and yang” of self-compassion, as Finlay Jones noted, recognises the need for both tender self-care and assertive boundary-setting. This requires the courage to say ‘no’ to unreasonable demands. Cultivating self-compassion is not a once off, but an ongoing process that requires regular practice and self-reflection. High achievers might find it uncomfortable, but leaders who embrace self-compassion stand to enhance their wellbeing and create a more positive, supportive, and successful work environment. View the full article

With enrollment on the rise, the California Polytechnic State University in seaside San Luis Obispo has found itself staring down a familiar California problem: a severe housing shortage. “Cal Poly’s located in this beautiful town of San Luis Obispo. That is one of our competitive advantages, but it also means that everybody else wants to live here, too,” says Mike McCormick, vice president of facilities management and development at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo This desirability poses a problem for the university, which has seen enrollment grow in recent years, with trendlines suggesting an additional 4,000 students by the end of the decade. “It’s really hard for us to grow without providing housing,” McCormick says. “The city simply can’t absorb any of it. So that’s what’s driving our program.” That’s led the university to launch an ambitious, fast-paced, and possibly precedent-setting dormitory building project that will add 4,200 beds to the university’s campus housing inventory within just four years. The housing—nine buildings primarily made up of six-bed, three-room suites—will be built through modular construction inside a factory in Los Angeles. It will be the largest modular housing construction project in the country. [Image: courtesy Steinberg Hart Architects] The university partnered with FullStack Modular, a company specializing in industrialized construction that has previously built modular apartment buildings up to 15 stories tall, to produce the much-needed housing units quickly and affordably. Construction will commence later this year at FullStack Modular’s Los Angeles factory, and the first of nine new dormitory buildings is scheduled for occupancy in Fall 2026. FullStack Modular emerged in 2016 after a major 15-building modular construction project connected to the Barclay’s Center arena in Brooklyn faltered. Just one of the project’s buildings, a 32-story tower, was completed. It was, at the time, the tallest modular project in the world. Roger Krulak, an executive who worked on that project, created FullStack Modular and bought out the factory and the production process, and has chipped away at making a market for factory-built buildings ever since. [Image: courtesy Steinberg Hart Architects] As the largest modular construction project in the country, the 4,200-bed project now underway in California represents a high-profile test of the modular approach. It’s also a no-brainer example of how modular construction can be used to pump out a fairly cookie-cutter type of building—thousands of dorm suites—fast and cheap. “We can predict timing and costs and repetitiveness and all of the economies of scale that you hope for in an industrialized process,” says Krulak. [Image: courtesy Steinberg Hart Architects] McCormick says the university was quick to latch onto the idea of factory-based construction for this project. That’s partly due to the lack of construction workers in the area to build a 4,200-bed project, and a lack of space to house workers who might relocate there for such a project. “Using traditional methods, we would import a workforce from Los Angeles, from the Valley, from San Francisco, and they would all be looking for housing while they’re here,” McCormick says. “That just exacerbates the problem that we’re trying to solve in the first place.” Building the project in a factory solves the workforce problem. It also brings the cost of construction down by systematizing the design into repeatable forms. “It doesn’t make sense to build this much housing and not take advantage of the repeatability,” McCormick says. FullStack Modular is currently building a prototype of the six-bed dorm suite that will make up about 80% of the project’s square footage. Krulak says it will be used to fine-tune the design before putting the factory into full production mode later this year. When underway, the process is expected to move twice as fast as conventional construction, and with much greater certainty over material and labor costs. Finding an affordable construction solution is not just a speculative real estate decision. At Cal Poly, and other universities across the country, housing is now more expensive than tuition. Modular housing could prove to be one way to increase supply and reduce costs. “The CSU is the largest university in the country. We have needs for housing all over the place,” McCormick says. “It’s a common problem, especially here in California, so we’re hoping that we create something that is absolutely transportable to other universities.” View the full article

Poshmark has revolutionized the way we buy and sell clothes online, making it easier and more accessible than ever. As a standout platform, it’s sparked a new era in the online resale shopping landscape, offering both buyers and sellers a dynamic marketplace. However, the online landscape is expansive, and for individuals aiming to broaden their business or personal selling opportunities, there are additional resale sites ready to be discovered. From vintage gems on Etsy to high-end items on The RealReal, this guide serves as your gateway to enhancing your online selling experience. Why Poshmark Has Become a Favorite for Selling Clothes Poshmark shines as a go-to for those learning how to sell clothes online, thanks to its user-friendly platform that makes listing a breeze. With a competitive final value fee structure, sellers keep a good chunk of their sales, adding to its appeal. But it’s not just about the money; Poshmark’s community-centric approach fosters a supportive environment where sellers can connect, share tips, and even make friends. This blend of business and social interaction sets Poshmark apart in the crowded online resale space. Top Resale Sites Like Poshmark Dive into the world of online resale with these 25 platforms, each offering unique opportunities to sell everything from vintage finds to luxury goods. eBay eBay is a vast marketplace that caters to a wide range of categories, from fashion to electronics. It’s known for its auction-style listings along with the “Buy It Now” option, giving sellers flexibility in how they sell. eBay’s global reach offers a massive audience but comes with a competitive landscape. Sellers benefit from eBay’s detailed seller protections and a comprehensive shipping and logistics support system. Depop Depop focuses on the unique, vintage, and trendy, appealing to a younger demographic that values individuality. This mobile-centric platform combines the selling experience with social media elements, allowing users to follow each other, like items, and share listings. Depop charges a 10% fee on items sold, including shipping costs, making it a cost-effective option for casual sellers and vintage enthusiasts. Vinted Vinted specializes in secondhand clothing, offering a platform for users to sell, buy, or swap items. It’s unique in that it doesn’t charge sellers a fee, instead charging buyers a small service fee. This model encourages a bustling marketplace of affordable items, with a community-focused environment that includes forums for advice and tips. Mercari Mercari is a user-friendly app that simplifies the selling process for a variety of items, not just clothing. With no listing fees and a flat 10% selling fee, Mercari makes it easy for anyone to start selling. Its “ship it or drop it off” option provides flexibility for sellers, and the platform is known for its strong customer service support. ThredUP ThredUP takes a different approach as an online consignment and thrift store. Sellers send in their clothing, and ThredUP takes care of the rest, from photography to listing. While it offers convenience and a wide audience, sellers trade some control and potential earnings for ease of use. ThredUP is best for those looking to declutter without the hassle of managing their sales. The RealReal The RealReal is an online luxury consignment store focusing on high-end brands and goods. It offers a comprehensive authentication process, ensuring that all items are genuine. The site takes a higher commission than some other platforms, but in return, it provides a professional photography service and a vast audience looking specifically for luxury items. This platform is ideal for sellers of high-end clothing, accessories, and home goods. OfferUp OfferUp is a mobile-first marketplace where local buying and selling are made easy. Unlike many other platforms, OfferUp is great for selling items beyond clothing, including furniture and electronics. Its user-friendly interface encourages quick sales locally, though it also offers shipping options for a broader reach. With no listing fees and competitive seller fees, OfferUp is a versatile option for various sellers. Grailed Grailed is a community-driven marketplace catering exclusively to men’s fashion, focusing on streetwear, designer, and vintage pieces. It distinguishes itself with a curated selection and an engaged community of fashion enthusiasts. Grailed charges a commission fee for sold items, but its niche focus allows sellers to reach a dedicated audience willing to pay for premium items. ASOS Marketplace ASOS Marketplace offers a unique platform for independent brands and vintage boutiques to reach a global audience. Launched by the fashion retail giant ASOS, this site is perfect for sellers with unique collections looking to tap into a younger fashion-forward market. It requires sellers to have a boutique, making it different from peer-to-peer platforms, and charges a commission on sales. Facebook Marketplace Facebook Marketplace leverages the social media giant’s network to facilitate buying and selling items locally. With no fees for listing or selling, it’s an attractive option for sellers of all kinds, including those with clothing. The platform’s integration with Facebook profiles adds a layer of transparency and trust to transactions, making it easy for sellers to reach their local community or even wider audiences through shipping options. Etsy Etsy is renowned for focusing on handmade, vintage, and unique items, including clothing. It’s the go-to platform for sellers looking to reach an audience that values craftsmanship and sustainability. Etsy features a marketplace tailored for independent sellers, providing a personal touch to the selling experience. However, sellers should keep in mind that Etsy imposes listing fees and a commission on sales. Rebag Rebag specializes in luxury bags, offering a streamlined process for sellers to cash in on high-end handbags and accessories. With a focus on authenticity and quality, Rebag provides an upfront quote for items, making it easy for sellers to understand their potential earnings. This platform is ideal for those with a collection of designer bags looking for a hassle-free selling experience. StockX StockX is a unique platform that operates more like a stock market for sneakers and streetwear, focusing on transparency and authenticity. Sellers can list items or sell directly at the current market price, and StockX authenticates all items before they are sent to the buyer. This model appeals to sellers and buyers in the sneaker community who are looking for a secure way to buy and sell. Vestiaire Collective Vestiaire Collective is a global platform for pre-owned luxury and designer fashion. With a rigorous authentication process, it ensures all items are genuine, providing confidence to both buyers and sellers. Sellers can list items for free, but the platform takes a commission on sales, which varies depending on the item’s price. It’s a great option for those looking to sell high-end clothing and accessories. GOAT GOAT is a leading platform for buying and selling sneakers, along with apparel and accessories. It offers a robust authentication process and a vast audience of sneaker enthusiasts. While it focuses primarily on sneakers, its expansion into streetwear and other categories provides additional avenues for sellers. GOAT charges a commission and shipping fees, which are considerations for sellers looking to maximize their returns. Kidizen Kidizen is a dedicated marketplace for parents to buy and sell children’s clothing, toys, and accessories. It offers a community-driven platform that makes it easy for families to find affordable, quality items for their growing kids. Kidizen’s user-friendly app enhances the shopping and selling experience, making it a favorite among parents looking for a sustainable way to manage their children’s wardrobes. Curtsy Curtsy targets a younger demographic, focusing on trendy, gently used clothing and accessories. It simplifies the selling process with a mobile app that allows users to quickly list items by taking a few photos. Curtsy appeals to college students and young professionals looking for an easy way to refresh their wardrobe without breaking the bank, charging a lower fee than many traditional consignment shops. WatchBox WatchBox specializes in buying, selling, and trading pre-owned luxury watches. Offering an expertly curated inventory and personalized client services, it stands out for enthusiasts and collectors seeking investment-grade timepieces. The platform provides a trustworthy environment for transactions, supported by authentication and valuation from watch experts, making it a premier destination for high-end watch sales. 1stdibs 1stdibs is an upscale marketplace that caters to antique, vintage, and luxury goods, including fashion. It’s known for its selection of high-end items from around the world, offering a platform for sellers of unique and rare pieces. With its focus on quality and exclusivity, 1stdibs attracts a discerning clientele willing to invest in timeless style, though sellers should note the platform’s commission and listing fees. Luxury Garage Sale Luxury Garage Sale offers a boutique consignment experience specializing in luxury clothing, handbags, and accessories. With both online and physical presence, it provides a personalized service for sellers looking to declutter their high-end items. The platform stands out for its white-glove service, including professional photography and pricing advice, making it a hassle-free option for sellers aiming for the luxury market. What Goes Around Comes Around What Goes Around Comes Around is renowned for its exceptional collection of vintage and luxury fashion. This platform is ideal for sellers with rare and high-end vintage items, offering an upscale consignment experience. Its reputation for authenticity and quality attracts a clientele looking for investment pieces, ensuring items have the best chance of selling at top dollar. Chairish Chairish is a favorite for sellers of vintage clothing and decor, providing a curated marketplace for unique home goods and fashion. It stands out for its commitment to quality and design, appealing to buyers with a discerning eye. Sellers on Chairish enjoy a platform that values the story behind each piece, with a straightforward listing process and competitive commission rates. VarageSale VarageSale provides a community-oriented platform for local buying and selling. It resembles a virtual garage sale, allowing users to sell a wide range of items, including clothes and furniture, to people in their community. The platform emphasizes safety and trust, with all members verified through Facebook, making it a comfortable space for transactions. VarageSale is perfect for sellers looking to avoid shipping hassles by dealing locally. LePrix LePrix is a luxury consignment online marketplace that brings together the best boutiques from around the world. Specializing in authenticated, pre-owned luxury goods, it offers sellers a vast audience of luxury shoppers. LePrix’s strength lies in its rigorous authentication process and partnership with professional consignment shops, ensuring items reach buyers who appreciate luxury and quality. Fashionphile Fashionphile focuses exclusively on luxury accessories, making it the go-to platform for selling high-end handbags, jewelry, and accessories. Known for its expertise in authentication and valuation, Fashionphile offers sellers a straightforward way to monetize their luxury items. With competitive consignment rates and a strong online presence, it’s a top choice for those looking to sell designer accessories. PlatformFocusSelling FeesUnique Features eBayWide range including fashion to electronicsVariesGlobal reach, auction-style listings DepopUnique, vintage, trendy fashion10% on items sold, including shippingSocial media elements like following and sharing VintedSecondhand clothingNo seller fee, buyers pay a service feeCommunity-focused, option to swap items MercariVariety of items, not just clothingNo listing fees, flat 10% selling feeUser-friendly, flexible shipping options ThredUPOnline consignment and thrift storeConsign with ThredUP, fees varyTakes care of photography to listing The RealRealLuxury consignment storeHigher commission for professional servicesComprehensive authentication process OfferUpLocal buying and selling of a wide rangeNo listing fees, competitive seller feesUser-friendly interface for quick local sales GrailedMen's fashion, especially streetwear and designerCommission feeCurated selection, engaged fashion community ASOS MarketplaceIndependent brands and vintage boutiquesCommission on salesTargets a younger, fashion-forward market Facebook MarketplaceLocal buying and selling, wide rangeNo fees for listing or sellingIntegration with Facebook profiles EtsyHandmade, vintage, unique itemsListing fees and a commission on salesMarketplace for independent sellers RebagLuxury bagsQuote provided, consignment rates applyStreamlined process for luxury bags StockXSneakers and streetwearMarket price, authentication feeStock market model for transparent pricing Vestiaire CollectivePre-owned luxury and designer fashionCommission on sales, varies by item priceGlobal platform, rigorous authentication GOATSneakers, apparel, accessoriesCommission and shipping feesFocus on authenticity in sneaker community KidizenChildren's clothing, toys, accessoriesUser-friendly app, fees not specifiedCommunity-driven, family-friendly platform CurtsyTrendy, gently used clothingLower fee than traditional consignment shopsTargets younger demographic, easy listing process WatchBoxPre-owned luxury watchesAuthentication and valuation, fees not specifiedExpert curation, personalized client services 1stdibsAntique, vintage, and luxury goodsCommission and listing feesHigh-end items from around the world Luxury Garage SaleLuxury clothing, handbags, accessoriesBoutique consignment ratesWhite-glove service for luxury market What Goes Around Comes AroundVintage and luxury fashionUpscale consignment experience, fees not specifiedExceptional collection of vintage luxury ChairishVintage clothing and decorCompetitive commission ratesCommitment to quality and design VarageSaleLocal community-focused buying and sellingNo fees, local community focusVirtual garage sale with verified members LePrixAuthenticated, pre-owned luxury goodsRigorous authentication, partnership with boutiquesBrings together top boutiques worldwide FashionphileLuxury accessoriesConsignment rates for luxury accessoriesExpertise in luxury accessories The Benefits of Using Resale Sites and Apps Like Poshmark Selling on resale apps like Poshmark provides numerous advantages for individuals looking to declutter their closets or establish a side hustle. Learning how to sell on Poshmark is simple, and there are numerous platforms that offer similar experiences. Here’s an expanded view of the benefits: Access to a Broad Customer Base: Sites like Poshmark boast millions of users, giving sellers immediate access to a large and varied audience. This extensive reach makes it easier to connect with potential buyers who are interested in your specific items. Variety of Fee Structures: Resale platforms offer different fee models, including listing fees, final value fees, and commission rates. This variety allows sellers to choose a platform that aligns with their financial objectives, maximizing their earnings. Ease of Use: These platforms are designed with user-friendly interfaces, making it straightforward to list items, manage sales, and communicate with buyers. The simplicity of the process makes it accessible even for those new to online selling. Flexible Selling Options: Sellers have the freedom to determine their prices, provide discounts, and negotiate with buyers. This flexibility allows them to price items competitively and finalize transactions more effectively. Built-in Customer Base: Unlike starting an independent online store, resale apps come with an existing customer base, reducing the need for extensive marketing efforts to attract buyers. Environmental Impact: Selling on resale platforms promotes sustainability by giving items a second life, reducing waste, and encouraging a more circular economy. Social Features: Many resale platforms incorporate social features, such as liking, sharing, and following, which can increase the visibility of your listings and foster a community among users. Safety and Security: Resale apps typically offer secure payment processing and protection policies for both buyers and sellers, ensuring transactions are safe and reliable. Support and Resources: Most platforms provide comprehensive support and resources, including seller guides, customer service, and community forums, to assist sellers in maximizing their sales and navigating any challenges. Personal Branding: For those looking to build a presence or brand in the resale market, these platforms offer an opportunity to curate a selection of items, develop a selling style, and engage with followers. By leveraging these benefits, sellers can effectively utilize resale apps to clear out their closets, reach targeted buyers, and achieve their financial goals, all while contributing to a more sustainable way of shopping. Where to Sell Clothing: Poshmark vs. Other Resale Sites Choosing the right online resale platform is key for sellers aiming to maximize their earnings and reach. This comparison delves into essential aspects like fees, user experience, audience reach, listing ease, shipping policies, and community support, guiding you to make an informed decision. Differences in Payment Processing Fee Poshmark simplifies things with a flat 20% fee for sales over $15, contrasting with sites like eBay and Mercari that have variable fees based on categories and seller volumes. Unlike Poshmark, some platforms also impose a listing fee, affecting the overall cost of selling. User Experience on Different Platforms While Poshmark features a user-friendly, social-centric interface that enhances engagement, it may not offer the advanced tools found on platforms like eBay or Etsy, which provide a broader range of selling experiences. Navigation and listing processes vary widely, with some platforms offering more streamlined, seller-friendly interfaces than others. Audience Reach of Apps Like Poshmark Poshmark’s audience is fashion-focused, offering a niche market with a potentially higher selling price for trendy items. In contrast, eBay and Facebook Marketplace attract a broader audience, which might reduce individual item visibility but increase the potential buyer pool. Ease of Listing Items Listing on Poshmark is straightforward, requiring just a few steps to post an item. Other sites, like eBay, offer more detailed listing options, which can be a boon for specific items but might require more effort to set up. Shipping Policies Across Platforms Poshmark simplifies shipping by providing prepaid labels, whereas platforms like eBay and Mercari allow for more shipping flexibility but require sellers to navigate more complex logistics and potentially higher costs. Community Engagement and Support Poshmark stands out for its strong community vibe, with features encouraging user interaction. Other sites might offer more traditional customer service and support options, focusing less on community building and more on the transactional aspects of buying and selling. Niche Platforms for Specialized Clothing Sales For those with a keen eye on vintage, streetwear, children’s, or designer clothing, niche platforms like The RealReal, Vestiaire Collective, and Kidizen offer tailored spaces. These sites cater specifically to enthusiasts and collectors, providing a curated audience appreciative of the unique value and history behind each piece. They stand as essential go-tos for sellers looking to connect with buyers who share a passion for specific fashion categories. The Role of Social Media in Resale: Highlighting Facebook Marketplace Facebook Marketplace has carved a niche in the online resale market as one of the best apps to sell stuff locally. Its integration with social media profiles adds a layer of trust and community, facilitating easier and more secure transactions. The platform’s wide reach and the ability to target local buyers make it a powerful tool for sellers looking to offload items quickly and efficiently without the hassle of shipping. Features to Look for in a Resale Site When exploring alternatives to Poshmark for buying and selling items, it’s essential to consider various features that contribute to a platform’s effectiveness and user satisfaction. Here’s an expanded list of features to look for: Large and Engaged User Base: A vibrant community with a high number of active users increases the likelihood of sales and offers a diverse range of products. An engaged community also fosters a supportive environment for both buyers and sellers. Ease of Use: The platform should be intuitive and user-friendly, allowing for easy navigation, product listing, and purchase processes. This includes a clean interface, straightforward search functionality, and simple transaction procedures. Robust Online Store Functionalities: Advanced features that support a variety of sales formats, such as auction, buy now, and best offer, can cater to different selling and buying preferences. Integration with payment systems that offer secure transactions is also crucial. Efficient Listing Process: The ability to quickly and easily list items for sale, including batch uploads, template listings, and auto-fill features for product details, can save sellers time and effort. Comprehensive Sales Management Tools: Tools that help sellers track their inventory, orders, and shipping processes in one place can streamline operations and improve efficiency. Detailed Analytics: Access to data on sales performance, customer demographics, and product popularity can help sellers make informed decisions about pricing, inventory, and marketing strategies. Marketing Tools: Features such as promotional listings, featured products, and the ability to share listings on social media platforms can enhance visibility and attract more buyers. Customer Support and Community Engagement: Responsive customer service for both buyers and sellers, along with forums or groups that encourage interaction and feedback, can enhance the overall platform experience. Mobile Compatibility: A platform that is mobile-friendly or has a dedicated app allows users to easily access the site, manage their accounts, and carry out transactions from their smartphones. Secure Payment Options: Multiple, secure payment methods provide flexibility and peace of mind for users, facilitating smoother transactions. Transparent Fees and Policies: Clear information on any fees charged for listings, transactions, or additional services helps sellers understand their potential costs upfront. Considering these features when evaluating resale platforms can help sellers choose the best venue for their needs, ensuring a positive experience and maximizing their success in the online marketplace. https://youtube.com/watch?v=9Jp9y_gK0jU%3Fsi%3DV6NOA5F9_hv93WNc FAQs: Sites Like Poshmark What is the best online resale site to sell jewelry? Etsy stands out as the best platform for selling jewelry, especially unique, handmade, or vintage pieces. Its niche market appreciates the craftsmanship and history behind each item, making it a favorite among jewelry sellers. What is the best platform to sell secondhand clothes? If you’re looking into how to start a reselling business, finding the right platform for your needs is essential. Depop and Poshmark are top contenders for selling secondhand unwanted clothes, catering to a younger, fashion-forward audience. Both platforms offer an engaging, social media-like experience, making them ideal for trendy and vintage clothing sales. How do payment processing fees vary across different resale sites? Payment processing fees vary widely. Poshmark charges a flat 20% on sales over $15, while eBay’s fees depend on the item category and seller’s performance. Other sites may have lower fees but charge for listings or additional services. Which platforms are ideal for selling specific types of clothing? For designer clothes, The RealReal and Vestiaire Collective are perfect, offering a luxury-focused audience. Etsy is ideal for vintage finds, while Kidizen is the go-to for children’s clothing, each providing a specialized market for these categories. Image: Envato Elements This article, "Resale Sites like Poshmark to Elevate Your Business Game" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Poshmark has revolutionized the way we buy and sell clothes online, making it easier and more accessible than ever. As a standout platform, it’s sparked a new era in the online resale shopping landscape, offering both buyers and sellers a dynamic marketplace. However, the online landscape is expansive, and for individuals aiming to broaden their business or personal selling opportunities, there are additional resale sites ready to be discovered. From vintage gems on Etsy to high-end items on The RealReal, this guide serves as your gateway to enhancing your online selling experience. Why Poshmark Has Become a Favorite for Selling Clothes Poshmark shines as a go-to for those learning how to sell clothes online, thanks to its user-friendly platform that makes listing a breeze. With a competitive final value fee structure, sellers keep a good chunk of their sales, adding to its appeal. But it’s not just about the money; Poshmark’s community-centric approach fosters a supportive environment where sellers can connect, share tips, and even make friends. This blend of business and social interaction sets Poshmark apart in the crowded online resale space. Top Resale Sites Like Poshmark Dive into the world of online resale with these 25 platforms, each offering unique opportunities to sell everything from vintage finds to luxury goods. eBay eBay is a vast marketplace that caters to a wide range of categories, from fashion to electronics. It’s known for its auction-style listings along with the “Buy It Now” option, giving sellers flexibility in how they sell. eBay’s global reach offers a massive audience but comes with a competitive landscape. Sellers benefit from eBay’s detailed seller protections and a comprehensive shipping and logistics support system. Depop Depop focuses on the unique, vintage, and trendy, appealing to a younger demographic that values individuality. This mobile-centric platform combines the selling experience with social media elements, allowing users to follow each other, like items, and share listings. Depop charges a 10% fee on items sold, including shipping costs, making it a cost-effective option for casual sellers and vintage enthusiasts. Vinted Vinted specializes in secondhand clothing, offering a platform for users to sell, buy, or swap items. It’s unique in that it doesn’t charge sellers a fee, instead charging buyers a small service fee. This model encourages a bustling marketplace of affordable items, with a community-focused environment that includes forums for advice and tips. Mercari Mercari is a user-friendly app that simplifies the selling process for a variety of items, not just clothing. With no listing fees and a flat 10% selling fee, Mercari makes it easy for anyone to start selling. Its “ship it or drop it off” option provides flexibility for sellers, and the platform is known for its strong customer service support. ThredUP ThredUP takes a different approach as an online consignment and thrift store. Sellers send in their clothing, and ThredUP takes care of the rest, from photography to listing. While it offers convenience and a wide audience, sellers trade some control and potential earnings for ease of use. ThredUP is best for those looking to declutter without the hassle of managing their sales. The RealReal The RealReal is an online luxury consignment store focusing on high-end brands and goods. It offers a comprehensive authentication process, ensuring that all items are genuine. The site takes a higher commission than some other platforms, but in return, it provides a professional photography service and a vast audience looking specifically for luxury items. This platform is ideal for sellers of high-end clothing, accessories, and home goods. OfferUp OfferUp is a mobile-first marketplace where local buying and selling are made easy. Unlike many other platforms, OfferUp is great for selling items beyond clothing, including furniture and electronics. Its user-friendly interface encourages quick sales locally, though it also offers shipping options for a broader reach. With no listing fees and competitive seller fees, OfferUp is a versatile option for various sellers. Grailed Grailed is a community-driven marketplace catering exclusively to men’s fashion, focusing on streetwear, designer, and vintage pieces. It distinguishes itself with a curated selection and an engaged community of fashion enthusiasts. Grailed charges a commission fee for sold items, but its niche focus allows sellers to reach a dedicated audience willing to pay for premium items. ASOS Marketplace ASOS Marketplace offers a unique platform for independent brands and vintage boutiques to reach a global audience. Launched by the fashion retail giant ASOS, this site is perfect for sellers with unique collections looking to tap into a younger fashion-forward market. It requires sellers to have a boutique, making it different from peer-to-peer platforms, and charges a commission on sales. Facebook Marketplace Facebook Marketplace leverages the social media giant’s network to facilitate buying and selling items locally. With no fees for listing or selling, it’s an attractive option for sellers of all kinds, including those with clothing. The platform’s integration with Facebook profiles adds a layer of transparency and trust to transactions, making it easy for sellers to reach their local community or even wider audiences through shipping options. Etsy Etsy is renowned for focusing on handmade, vintage, and unique items, including clothing. It’s the go-to platform for sellers looking to reach an audience that values craftsmanship and sustainability. Etsy features a marketplace tailored for independent sellers, providing a personal touch to the selling experience. However, sellers should keep in mind that Etsy imposes listing fees and a commission on sales. Rebag Rebag specializes in luxury bags, offering a streamlined process for sellers to cash in on high-end handbags and accessories. With a focus on authenticity and quality, Rebag provides an upfront quote for items, making it easy for sellers to understand their potential earnings. This platform is ideal for those with a collection of designer bags looking for a hassle-free selling experience. StockX StockX is a unique platform that operates more like a stock market for sneakers and streetwear, focusing on transparency and authenticity. Sellers can list items or sell directly at the current market price, and StockX authenticates all items before they are sent to the buyer. This model appeals to sellers and buyers in the sneaker community who are looking for a secure way to buy and sell. Vestiaire Collective Vestiaire Collective is a global platform for pre-owned luxury and designer fashion. With a rigorous authentication process, it ensures all items are genuine, providing confidence to both buyers and sellers. Sellers can list items for free, but the platform takes a commission on sales, which varies depending on the item’s price. It’s a great option for those looking to sell high-end clothing and accessories. GOAT GOAT is a leading platform for buying and selling sneakers, along with apparel and accessories. It offers a robust authentication process and a vast audience of sneaker enthusiasts. While it focuses primarily on sneakers, its expansion into streetwear and other categories provides additional avenues for sellers. GOAT charges a commission and shipping fees, which are considerations for sellers looking to maximize their returns. Kidizen Kidizen is a dedicated marketplace for parents to buy and sell children’s clothing, toys, and accessories. It offers a community-driven platform that makes it easy for families to find affordable, quality items for their growing kids. Kidizen’s user-friendly app enhances the shopping and selling experience, making it a favorite among parents looking for a sustainable way to manage their children’s wardrobes. Curtsy Curtsy targets a younger demographic, focusing on trendy, gently used clothing and accessories. It simplifies the selling process with a mobile app that allows users to quickly list items by taking a few photos. Curtsy appeals to college students and young professionals looking for an easy way to refresh their wardrobe without breaking the bank, charging a lower fee than many traditional consignment shops. WatchBox WatchBox specializes in buying, selling, and trading pre-owned luxury watches. Offering an expertly curated inventory and personalized client services, it stands out for enthusiasts and collectors seeking investment-grade timepieces. The platform provides a trustworthy environment for transactions, supported by authentication and valuation from watch experts, making it a premier destination for high-end watch sales. 1stdibs 1stdibs is an upscale marketplace that caters to antique, vintage, and luxury goods, including fashion. It’s known for its selection of high-end items from around the world, offering a platform for sellers of unique and rare pieces. With its focus on quality and exclusivity, 1stdibs attracts a discerning clientele willing to invest in timeless style, though sellers should note the platform’s commission and listing fees. Luxury Garage Sale Luxury Garage Sale offers a boutique consignment experience specializing in luxury clothing, handbags, and accessories. With both online and physical presence, it provides a personalized service for sellers looking to declutter their high-end items. The platform stands out for its white-glove service, including professional photography and pricing advice, making it a hassle-free option for sellers aiming for the luxury market. What Goes Around Comes Around What Goes Around Comes Around is renowned for its exceptional collection of vintage and luxury fashion. This platform is ideal for sellers with rare and high-end vintage items, offering an upscale consignment experience. Its reputation for authenticity and quality attracts a clientele looking for investment pieces, ensuring items have the best chance of selling at top dollar. Chairish Chairish is a favorite for sellers of vintage clothing and decor, providing a curated marketplace for unique home goods and fashion. It stands out for its commitment to quality and design, appealing to buyers with a discerning eye. Sellers on Chairish enjoy a platform that values the story behind each piece, with a straightforward listing process and competitive commission rates. VarageSale VarageSale provides a community-oriented platform for local buying and selling. It resembles a virtual garage sale, allowing users to sell a wide range of items, including clothes and furniture, to people in their community. The platform emphasizes safety and trust, with all members verified through Facebook, making it a comfortable space for transactions. VarageSale is perfect for sellers looking to avoid shipping hassles by dealing locally. LePrix LePrix is a luxury consignment online marketplace that brings together the best boutiques from around the world. Specializing in authenticated, pre-owned luxury goods, it offers sellers a vast audience of luxury shoppers. LePrix’s strength lies in its rigorous authentication process and partnership with professional consignment shops, ensuring items reach buyers who appreciate luxury and quality. Fashionphile Fashionphile focuses exclusively on luxury accessories, making it the go-to platform for selling high-end handbags, jewelry, and accessories. Known for its expertise in authentication and valuation, Fashionphile offers sellers a straightforward way to monetize their luxury items. With competitive consignment rates and a strong online presence, it’s a top choice for those looking to sell designer accessories. PlatformFocusSelling FeesUnique Features eBayWide range including fashion to electronicsVariesGlobal reach, auction-style listings DepopUnique, vintage, trendy fashion10% on items sold, including shippingSocial media elements like following and sharing VintedSecondhand clothingNo seller fee, buyers pay a service feeCommunity-focused, option to swap items MercariVariety of items, not just clothingNo listing fees, flat 10% selling feeUser-friendly, flexible shipping options ThredUPOnline consignment and thrift storeConsign with ThredUP, fees varyTakes care of photography to listing The RealRealLuxury consignment storeHigher commission for professional servicesComprehensive authentication process OfferUpLocal buying and selling of a wide rangeNo listing fees, competitive seller feesUser-friendly interface for quick local sales GrailedMen's fashion, especially streetwear and designerCommission feeCurated selection, engaged fashion community ASOS MarketplaceIndependent brands and vintage boutiquesCommission on salesTargets a younger, fashion-forward market Facebook MarketplaceLocal buying and selling, wide rangeNo fees for listing or sellingIntegration with Facebook profiles EtsyHandmade, vintage, unique itemsListing fees and a commission on salesMarketplace for independent sellers RebagLuxury bagsQuote provided, consignment rates applyStreamlined process for luxury bags StockXSneakers and streetwearMarket price, authentication feeStock market model for transparent pricing Vestiaire CollectivePre-owned luxury and designer fashionCommission on sales, varies by item priceGlobal platform, rigorous authentication GOATSneakers, apparel, accessoriesCommission and shipping feesFocus on authenticity in sneaker community KidizenChildren's clothing, toys, accessoriesUser-friendly app, fees not specifiedCommunity-driven, family-friendly platform CurtsyTrendy, gently used clothingLower fee than traditional consignment shopsTargets younger demographic, easy listing process WatchBoxPre-owned luxury watchesAuthentication and valuation, fees not specifiedExpert curation, personalized client services 1stdibsAntique, vintage, and luxury goodsCommission and listing feesHigh-end items from around the world Luxury Garage SaleLuxury clothing, handbags, accessoriesBoutique consignment ratesWhite-glove service for luxury market What Goes Around Comes AroundVintage and luxury fashionUpscale consignment experience, fees not specifiedExceptional collection of vintage luxury ChairishVintage clothing and decorCompetitive commission ratesCommitment to quality and design VarageSaleLocal community-focused buying and sellingNo fees, local community focusVirtual garage sale with verified members LePrixAuthenticated, pre-owned luxury goodsRigorous authentication, partnership with boutiquesBrings together top boutiques worldwide FashionphileLuxury accessoriesConsignment rates for luxury accessoriesExpertise in luxury accessories The Benefits of Using Resale Sites and Apps Like Poshmark Selling on resale apps like Poshmark provides numerous advantages for individuals looking to declutter their closets or establish a side hustle. Learning how to sell on Poshmark is simple, and there are numerous platforms that offer similar experiences. Here’s an expanded view of the benefits: Access to a Broad Customer Base: Sites like Poshmark boast millions of users, giving sellers immediate access to a large and varied audience. This extensive reach makes it easier to connect with potential buyers who are interested in your specific items. Variety of Fee Structures: Resale platforms offer different fee models, including listing fees, final value fees, and commission rates. This variety allows sellers to choose a platform that aligns with their financial objectives, maximizing their earnings. Ease of Use: These platforms are designed with user-friendly interfaces, making it straightforward to list items, manage sales, and communicate with buyers. The simplicity of the process makes it accessible even for those new to online selling. Flexible Selling Options: Sellers have the freedom to determine their prices, provide discounts, and negotiate with buyers. This flexibility allows them to price items competitively and finalize transactions more effectively. Built-in Customer Base: Unlike starting an independent online store, resale apps come with an existing customer base, reducing the need for extensive marketing efforts to attract buyers. Environmental Impact: Selling on resale platforms promotes sustainability by giving items a second life, reducing waste, and encouraging a more circular economy. Social Features: Many resale platforms incorporate social features, such as liking, sharing, and following, which can increase the visibility of your listings and foster a community among users. Safety and Security: Resale apps typically offer secure payment processing and protection policies for both buyers and sellers, ensuring transactions are safe and reliable. Support and Resources: Most platforms provide comprehensive support and resources, including seller guides, customer service, and community forums, to assist sellers in maximizing their sales and navigating any challenges. Personal Branding: For those looking to build a presence or brand in the resale market, these platforms offer an opportunity to curate a selection of items, develop a selling style, and engage with followers. By leveraging these benefits, sellers can effectively utilize resale apps to clear out their closets, reach targeted buyers, and achieve their financial goals, all while contributing to a more sustainable way of shopping. Where to Sell Clothing: Poshmark vs. Other Resale Sites Choosing the right online resale platform is key for sellers aiming to maximize their earnings and reach. This comparison delves into essential aspects like fees, user experience, audience reach, listing ease, shipping policies, and community support, guiding you to make an informed decision. Differences in Payment Processing Fee Poshmark simplifies things with a flat 20% fee for sales over $15, contrasting with sites like eBay and Mercari that have variable fees based on categories and seller volumes. Unlike Poshmark, some platforms also impose a listing fee, affecting the overall cost of selling. User Experience on Different Platforms While Poshmark features a user-friendly, social-centric interface that enhances engagement, it may not offer the advanced tools found on platforms like eBay or Etsy, which provide a broader range of selling experiences. Navigation and listing processes vary widely, with some platforms offering more streamlined, seller-friendly interfaces than others. Audience Reach of Apps Like Poshmark Poshmark’s audience is fashion-focused, offering a niche market with a potentially higher selling price for trendy items. In contrast, eBay and Facebook Marketplace attract a broader audience, which might reduce individual item visibility but increase the potential buyer pool. Ease of Listing Items Listing on Poshmark is straightforward, requiring just a few steps to post an item. Other sites, like eBay, offer more detailed listing options, which can be a boon for specific items but might require more effort to set up. Shipping Policies Across Platforms Poshmark simplifies shipping by providing prepaid labels, whereas platforms like eBay and Mercari allow for more shipping flexibility but require sellers to navigate more complex logistics and potentially higher costs. Community Engagement and Support Poshmark stands out for its strong community vibe, with features encouraging user interaction. Other sites might offer more traditional customer service and support options, focusing less on community building and more on the transactional aspects of buying and selling. Niche Platforms for Specialized Clothing Sales For those with a keen eye on vintage, streetwear, children’s, or designer clothing, niche platforms like The RealReal, Vestiaire Collective, and Kidizen offer tailored spaces. These sites cater specifically to enthusiasts and collectors, providing a curated audience appreciative of the unique value and history behind each piece. They stand as essential go-tos for sellers looking to connect with buyers who share a passion for specific fashion categories. The Role of Social Media in Resale: Highlighting Facebook Marketplace Facebook Marketplace has carved a niche in the online resale market as one of the best apps to sell stuff locally. Its integration with social media profiles adds a layer of trust and community, facilitating easier and more secure transactions. The platform’s wide reach and the ability to target local buyers make it a powerful tool for sellers looking to offload items quickly and efficiently without the hassle of shipping. Features to Look for in a Resale Site When exploring alternatives to Poshmark for buying and selling items, it’s essential to consider various features that contribute to a platform’s effectiveness and user satisfaction. Here’s an expanded list of features to look for: Large and Engaged User Base: A vibrant community with a high number of active users increases the likelihood of sales and offers a diverse range of products. An engaged community also fosters a supportive environment for both buyers and sellers. Ease of Use: The platform should be intuitive and user-friendly, allowing for easy navigation, product listing, and purchase processes. This includes a clean interface, straightforward search functionality, and simple transaction procedures. Robust Online Store Functionalities: Advanced features that support a variety of sales formats, such as auction, buy now, and best offer, can cater to different selling and buying preferences. Integration with payment systems that offer secure transactions is also crucial. Efficient Listing Process: The ability to quickly and easily list items for sale, including batch uploads, template listings, and auto-fill features for product details, can save sellers time and effort. Comprehensive Sales Management Tools: Tools that help sellers track their inventory, orders, and shipping processes in one place can streamline operations and improve efficiency. Detailed Analytics: Access to data on sales performance, customer demographics, and product popularity can help sellers make informed decisions about pricing, inventory, and marketing strategies. Marketing Tools: Features such as promotional listings, featured products, and the ability to share listings on social media platforms can enhance visibility and attract more buyers. Customer Support and Community Engagement: Responsive customer service for both buyers and sellers, along with forums or groups that encourage interaction and feedback, can enhance the overall platform experience. Mobile Compatibility: A platform that is mobile-friendly or has a dedicated app allows users to easily access the site, manage their accounts, and carry out transactions from their smartphones. Secure Payment Options: Multiple, secure payment methods provide flexibility and peace of mind for users, facilitating smoother transactions. Transparent Fees and Policies: Clear information on any fees charged for listings, transactions, or additional services helps sellers understand their potential costs upfront. Considering these features when evaluating resale platforms can help sellers choose the best venue for their needs, ensuring a positive experience and maximizing their success in the online marketplace. https://youtube.com/watch?v=9Jp9y_gK0jU%3Fsi%3DV6NOA5F9_hv93WNc FAQs: Sites Like Poshmark What is the best online resale site to sell jewelry? Etsy stands out as the best platform for selling jewelry, especially unique, handmade, or vintage pieces. Its niche market appreciates the craftsmanship and history behind each item, making it a favorite among jewelry sellers. What is the best platform to sell secondhand clothes? If you’re looking into how to start a reselling business, finding the right platform for your needs is essential. Depop and Poshmark are top contenders for selling secondhand unwanted clothes, catering to a younger, fashion-forward audience. Both platforms offer an engaging, social media-like experience, making them ideal for trendy and vintage clothing sales. How do payment processing fees vary across different resale sites? Payment processing fees vary widely. Poshmark charges a flat 20% on sales over $15, while eBay’s fees depend on the item category and seller’s performance. Other sites may have lower fees but charge for listings or additional services. Which platforms are ideal for selling specific types of clothing? For designer clothes, The RealReal and Vestiaire Collective are perfect, offering a luxury-focused audience. Etsy is ideal for vintage finds, while Kidizen is the go-to for children’s clothing, each providing a specialized market for these categories. Image: Envato Elements This article, "Resale Sites like Poshmark to Elevate Your Business Game" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Susan Kare, designer of the original Apple icons, is back with a new 32-icon collection, one that you can buy in the form of silver or gold vermeil mechanical keys and pendants. Called Esc Keys, the new icons perfectly capture the everlasting magic of her 1-bit legendary past work, always mesmerizing in their extreme minimalism and at the same time as satisfying as triple-chocolate cake. Kare obviously had lots of fun creating them. Her new designs—from an alien head to a light bulb to love birds to puppies, plus a ‘Panic!’ key that we all really need right now—inspire the same joy she was gleaming with when I spoke to her from New York—where she was visiting for the Esc Keys’ U.S. launch (and to celebrate her participation in the group exhibition Pirouette: Turning Points in Design at MoMA). We spoke about this collection’s genesis and about the attraction and everlasting power of pixel art as a universal language. A code that has seemingly crossed generations, beyond the people who originally experienced it first hand, when her original digital creations saw the world for the first time in 1984, when Steve Jobs presented the Macintosh in San Francisco, California. “I sent the first photos of the Alien icon pendant to my own three sons and I remember they all immediately wrote back: ‘Sick!’” she says. “I took that as a good sign.” “There’s hidden meaning on each one” Kare tells me that she was asked to create the collection by Alastair Walker, the founder and creative director of Asprey Studio—the Mayfair, London, art gallery that sprang up about two years ago from Asprey, a designer, manufacturer and retailer of jewelry, silverware, and all things luxury founded in London in 1781 (“The former Queen always bought gifts there!” Kare tells me with her charming laughter). Walker says he thought Kare was the perfect person to design his idea of the “escape keys”: Meaningful symbols that would represent things people might want to do away from their keyboards, physical reminders of the joys of physical life. “There’s hidden meaning on each one,” Walker says, “and the whole idea is that they’re literally in front of you on the keyboard or on your chest. It’s a reminder not to be a keyboard warrior. So it’s kind of almost antithetical itself.” “It’s a little ironic, but it resonated with me and I loved the idea,” Kare says. Walker initially asked if she would be interested in designing roughly 10 icons that would be on keyboard keys or mechanical keyboards with universal attachments. The 10 designs quickly grew to a collection of 60 to 70 concepts. “She started doing some icons and then she showed me like a whole bunch of them,” Walker says. “And then we were like, ‘Oh, well, we can’t get rid of this one, you know. Or this one.’ So then we thought, you know what, just do them all.” He was fascinated by the process himself, he tells me. “She’s insanely methodical. You speak to her and she’s moving a pixel here and then she’s like, no, let’s move it there.” [Photo: Asprey Studio] Stop, observe, reflect The escape keys were a good metaphor of that process too, the idea to stop, observe, reflect, to slow life. There are so many options now, we get sucked into a vortex of choice that make things lose their true meaning and intention. And there’s so much meaning and intention in Kare’s designs. “It’s just so funny when there’s 50 layers of undo now. You forget how amazing it was just to iterate undo and back again”, Kare tells me. “Andy Hertzfeld [one of the core Apple employees who made the Macintosh] wrote an icon editor as soon as I got to Apple. I did some drawings on graph paper to take to my job interviews, but using that icon editor was amazing. It was so nice to get to do it on the machine.” In the end, Kare and Walker managed to curate the Esc Keys down to 32 final pieces, although additional icons will appear later for some charity events they have planned later in the year, Walker says. Each icon is a limited edition, from 30 to 120 pieces depending on the icon, with prices ranging from $650 to $2,000 depending on the type of object: You can buy the computer key in enameled silver for $650 or in gold vermeil (a 19th-century technique in which you apply a thicker layer of gold to sterling silver, resulting in a finish that is five-times thicker and more durable than gold plating) for $1,010. The necklace pendant in silver goes for $1,390 while the gold vermeil version is $2,020. “We carefully handcraft everything in the studio,” Walker says. “Things like the enameling is super sharp. You usually get blotches with enamel, but this is beautifully flushed, hand filed to get these sharp edges on the pixels.” Each icon is also paired with a digital counterpart on the blockchain. [Photo: Asprey Studio] She’s an icon But more than their material value, these icons carry something that to me is far more precious: Kare’s unique ability to distill complex ideas into minimal, universal symbols that speak directly to our emotions. There’s something intrinsically appealing about the minimalist expression of Kare’s 1-bit icons, a striking contrast to this age of high-definition graphics, photorealistic interfaces, and artificial intelligence. Her iconic imagery, which created the modern graphical computing language after it’s protoform was developed at Xerox PARC, is the progenitor of much graphic language we still see today. Her work has an endearing quality that made it ideal for the collection, Walker says. “It celebrates Susan. I’ve been looking at digital arts history in general and she’s the pioneer.” Indeed, Kare is the GOAT and everyone should say that more often. She should be recognized universally for her founding contribution to the modern era of both computing and design, and not just in those industries. What Kare does may look simple, but the way she distills and synthesizes reality into its purest form, the pure soul of everyday things and ideas in a 16 x 16 or 32 x 32 grid, is nothing but pure art. The pixel aesthetic she pioneered has transcended its technological origins to become something deeply emotional and universally understood, which is the key to these keys. Some may say that this is just nostalgia speaking, but it goes way beyond being a GenXer reminiscing about the golden years of computing and the Pirates of Silicon Valley. And it goes beyond the ‘faux nostalgia’ of the generations that grew up on touchscreens too. I suspect they crave these essential pixelated representations of reality, plastering their Tik Toks and playing retro games, not because they are artifacts of the past but because there is an intrinsic appeal in Kare’s work. Because the simplicity of things, the abstraction process, makes all of us put more of ourselves into those graphics. And that’s why I believe pixel art transcends generations and is universal. [Photo: Asprey Studio] The beauty of simple forms There’s science to back this up. Shaped by millions of years of life evolution, our brains love to fill in the blanks. And, in that process, we project our emotions into these visual objects, something that is extremely satisfying at a subconscious level. It’s like the original Lego minifig, where there was only one smile and two eyes. It didn’t matter it was smiling: I remember putting my emotions in those ‘blank’ faces. A minigif could be happy or it could be sad. It could be angry or in love because of the simplicity of it. It makes us put our brain and soul into it. It creates a connection. At this point in our conversation, Kate reminded me of American cartoonist Scott McCloud’s Understanding Comics. “He has a couple illustrations where he showed a few drawings, like a very detailed pen sketch of a person, and then less and less detail, getting down to just a circle with a slight smile and two eyes,” she says. McCloud’s said that, the less detail, the more universal and the more anybody can look at that and feel as if it represents them. “I always used to think that the pencil icon can look to anybody like a writing implement. If you draw a chrome pen with highlight and shininess, it becomes so specific that it’s not the writing implement you imagine”, she says. “Even though most people don’t work in 72 DPI anymore or monochrome, I hope in some of these escape keys there’s that beauty,” Kare says. Indeed, that’s exactly the beauty of all her work. A beauty that is endearing and, well, cute. “I’ve been accused of being someone who likes things that are cute,” she says. “And yes, I really do think that a tablespoon of cute is good.” But cute may be interpreted as something done on purpose, frivolous and superficial. There’s nothing superficial about her approach to synthesis, however. The cute factor is a side effect of that process and the process of our brain projecting our ideas and feelings into simple forms, which makes them instantly endearing and memorable. The objects in Esc Keys are a convergence of art, technology, and fine craftsmanship but, more importantly, they demonstrate in a physical and most definitive way how Kare’s visual language, born in the constraints of early computer displays, has evolved into something timeless. These aren’t just escape keys. They are escape pods into humanity’s core, in a time where so many people feel divorced from it. 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