Antiques shop surveillance tools should be on everyone’s radar
The National Association for Shoplifting Prevention reports that more than 10 million people have been caught shoplifting in the last five years. Inventory shrinkage becomes a very big expense for antiques dealers. Here's what dealers can do to protect themselves from becoming a theft victim.
Why are estate sales booming when antiques shops struggle to pay rent?
In almost every market, the number of traditional antiques stores continues to dwindle while other marketing channels — estate sale companies, auction companies, consignment stores and online venues — continue to grow.
Top antiques apps for your iPad or Android tablet
There are many mobile applications available for antique dealers and collectors. Before you search for apps that will serve you well in your hobby or business, Wayne Jordan says there are a few things you need to know. Although many exist, he lists two apps that have proven themselves useful in...
Editor’s Pick: My favorite iPad apps for antiques
From the Editor: Here are the companies whose apps I use on my iPad almost daily to research antiques prices or to learn about antiques and collectibles.
Readers’ Letters: Probate column is offensive; Bravo for Bok; Fakes still fake years later
Antique Trader subscribers write to say a recent column on the probate system is offensive, warn collectors about fake Lincoln briefs, cheer a column on Hannes Bok and bemoan the lack of security in most university rare book archives.
Clinging to outdated descriptions may be hurting your antiques business
In our information-heavy, digitally-driven world of antiques, dealers have learned to choose their words wisely. But you may not know as much as you think you do; clinging to outdated words and definitions may be hurting your business.
How managing your antiques inventory can cut your taxes
Wayne Jordan says to avoid overpaying or underpaying your taxes, you need to control and track your antiques shop inventory. Since the IRS doesn’t accept Victorian rockers or Depression glass as payment for tax bills, here’s a look at how inventory and taxes are related.
Tap the probate system to win the competition for great antiques
Antiques dealers want to find the best merchandise and negotiate a good price before their competitors show up. Browsing probate records could help a family in need and help you score some valuable inventory.
Antique shop rents should be based on location, traffic
Why do shows and shops tell dealers they are selling space when they are really selling traffic? Antique malls (and antique shows) that rent space based solely on booth size are cheating themselves and their dealers.