The numbers are telling: E-commerce sales in the U.S. grew more than 31% between Q1 and Q2 2020, while Q3 2020 online sales jumped 36.7% over the corresponding 2019 quarter. Shannon Farlow explains why these figures underscore just how important a streamlined e-commerce presence is for storefront dealers today in “E-Commerce: An Essential Retail Tool For Today’s FFL Dealers,” featured in April’s Shooting Industry.

Farlow interviews a panel of dealers to get their perspectives on developing an e-commerce footprint, including Gun Shack (Helotes, Texas) Co-owner Noemi Skok who shares, “As a traditional mom-and-pop shop, we’re competing against big-box stores with millions of dollars in advertising budgets. Anything we can do to catch and keep a customer’s attention builds loyalty and helps spread word of mouth.”

In “Events + Classes In 2021 — Are They Worth It?” Doug VanderWoude polls a group of range operators on how they’re going about hosting events this year. It’s a “unique” environment for hosting events of any size, but some facilities have developed successful models with small-group events, class-related sales and in-house instructors.

For dealers interested in pursuing a niche segment, the April issue also includes tips from retailers on how to step into the upper end of the market in Tim Barker’s “The High-End Firearm Spectrum.” With the year in full swing, Ava Flanell uncovers emerging “2021 Trends” — notably consumer demand for easy-to-use handguns, high-capacity micro-compact handguns, ammo and training. And Carolee Anita Boyles reveals five benefits four-legged ambassadors can bring to a business in “Your Store’s Best Friend?”

If women can adjust to recoil, it will encourage repeat participation in the shooting sports. Mia Anstine outlines how stores can be a trusted resource in this transition, and therefore earn a long-term customer in the Arms & The Woman column. Shoot Smart Operations Director Jared Sloane suggests tapping into your team’s strengths to stay fresh and find new opportunities in Best Practices. Many a gun-shop owner chose to enter the firearms industry because a guns and shooting were a hobby: Learn how Pro Arms has successfully blended the two in the Personal Defense Market installment.

Rounding out the issue is the “(Virtual) Show Season Showcase.” Virtual events are taking center stage in 2021, and the products featured include useful manufacturer sales tips.

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