Community, Collaboration, and the Evolution of Independent Retail

Rooted in Retail

What does it take to build a successful independent retail business—and keep it thriving for decades? Carol Schroeder, co-owner of Orange Tree Imports, joins us to share her journey as a retailer and local business leader. From launching a gift and gourmet shop to navigating the shift to e-commerce, Carol offers grounded insights on team leadership, community-driven business, and how to stay relevant in a changing retail landscape.

In this episode, you’ll learn how collaborative management can transform your store culture, why thinking of your online shop as a second storefront matters, and how independent retailers can thrive by tapping into local connections.

[5:42] How Carol started Orange Tree Imports and built long-term success

[8:02] What “participative democracy” looks like in a retail team setting

[19:38] The power of community and collaboration in independent retail

[24:42] Why your e-commerce store should be treated like a second physical location

[25:04] Tips to connect with your local audience and build partnerships with community groups

[29:03] Carol’s biggest challenge as a retailer—and how she works through it

Join the Rooted in Retail Facebook Group to continue the conversation
Join our newsletter for all the latest marketing news for retailers
Show off your super fandom by getting your Rooted in Retail Merch!

Chapters

1. Community, Collaboration, and the Evolution of Independent Retail (00:00:00)

2. How Carol started Orange Tree Imports and built long-term success (00:05:42)

3. What “participative democracy” looks like in a retail team setting (00:08:02)

4. The power of community and collaboration in independent retail (00:19:38)

5. Why your e-commerce store should be treated like a second physical location (00:24:42)

6. Tips to connect with your local audience and build partnerships with community groups (00:25:04)