Submitted
Marlene Quiring, owner of the Walrus and Carpenter Home Décor and Gift Shop in Ponoka, has returned from a Colorado-based business improvement ‘’Destination BootCamp’’ where she learned hundreds of new methods to bring more customers and tourists to Ponoka.
Quiring was among a group of business owners from across North America, including three others from Canada, who attended the 2.5 day, 20-hour workshop.
The Destination BootCamp, created by marketing consultant Jon Schallert, teaches independent business owners on how to reposition their businesses as ‘’consumer destinations.’ According to Schallert, a business using his “Destination Business” strategies can compete effectively with superstores such as Walmart and Home Depot, and significantly impact a local community.
Schallert said it is not uncommon for destination businesses to create change in an entire city, by drawing consumers from miles around, from outside the immediate marketplace of a community.
“With the principles we learned at the BootCamp, we will be able to satisfy more of our customers needs and make purchasing accents for the home plus the large line of gifts and personal indulgences that we carry, a much more enjoyable, fun experience. Additionally, we. will be attracting more visitors and tourists from outside Ponoka,’’ says Quiring. “With what we’ve learned, there’s no reason we can’t attract shoppers from hundreds of miles away.’’
Quiring has been involved in the operation of The Walrus and The Carpenter since it opened back in 1989. Since 2006, she has been running the store on her own with minimal staff.
Business owners interested in learning more may contact Marlene Quiring at 403-783-5355 for more information on her BootCamp experience, or visit Schallert’s website at www.DestinationBootCamp.com