Inc.

“Creating experiences and an emotional connection will help customers feel like they’re getting more value from a retailer — and that they’re being valued and appreciated in return, says Syama Meagher, CEO of the Los Angeles-based consulting firm Scaling Retail. Small and independent retailers have a greater ability to create a bond with shoppers than larger competitors, she says. Meagher’s advice for store owners: “Don’t think about your customer as someone who’s going to buy something.”