Retail Superstars

How small, one-of-a-kind businesses can break through among giants

Megachains like Walmart, Starbucks, Home Depot, and The Gap attract Americans to thousands of outlets by offering a large selection of goods and services. But this doesnt mean that independent stores cant compete with the big guysand win. Retail expert George Whalin identifies and explores twenty-five highly popular and profitable independent stores from around the country. Unlike the mom-and-pops of yesteryear, these businesses embrace technology and innovation, generate word of mouth, and turn their size into an advantage. They include:

ABC Carpet and Home in New York City

Powells City of Books in Portland, Oregon

The Junkmans Daughter in Atlanta

Jungle Jims International Market in Fairfield, Ohio