Gift and Souvenir Stores

The gift, novelty, and souvenir store (gift store) industry includes about 30,000 stores with combined annual revenue of $16 billion. Major companies include Hallmark, Spencer Gifts, and Disney Stores (a division of The Walt Disney Company). The industry is fragmented: the top 50 companies account for 30 percent of industry sales.

The gift store industry does not include stationery stores, which are covered in the Office Supply and Paper Distribution industry profile.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Consumer spending, special occasions, and tourist travel drive demand. The profitability of individual companies depends on effective merchandising and the ability to generate store traffic. Large companies have advantages in purchasing, distribution, and marketing. Small companies can compete effectively by selling specialty products, providing superior service, or delivering a unique customer experience. The industry is labor-intensive: average annual revenue per worker is about $80,000.

Gift stores compete with a wide range of businesses because they stock merchandise across many categories. Major competitors include mass merchandisers, department stores, Internet retailers, home shopping channels, warehouse clubs, and toy stores.

PRODUCTS, OPERATIONS & TECHNOLOGY

Major products sold by gift stores include souvenirs and novelty items, seasonal decorations, greeting cards, and giftware. Novelty items include gift baskets and pre-filled balloons. Seasonal decorations include decorative cups, plates, and napkins. Giftware includes glassware and vases. Gift stores may also sell home accessories and provide services such as gift-wrapping and delivery.

Gift retailers include national and regional chains and independent ...