TRADE NEWS Advertising on social networks will not be invasive Mexx to withdraw from UK retail industry Waterstones aims to improve supply chain Retailers can use domain name to boost online presence Online shoppers unsure of risks Counterfeit goods harming retail industry Majority of internet users shop online Dragon's Den duo see product take off Online sales increase in January Retail sales slow in February Retailers set for Mother's day windfall Mamas & Papas begin retail expansion Independent retailers urged to assess everything Retailers hope to increase internet exposure Ambitious Britons hope to own businesses Retail sales enjoy quarterly growth Retailers retain confidence in the industry Women prepared to walk the earth for retail Retailers urge chancellor to ease burden Retailers urged to curb discounting Internet claiming increasing numbers of high-street shoppers FPB urges competition commission to help smaller retailers Competition commission set to replace code of conduct London retail sales below par in January Online retailers drive to attract new consumers Retailers taking legal obligations seriously UK wholesalers could be shunned by supermarkets US retailers enjoy shock sales rise Women opt for ethical Valentines gifts Retail sales set to face 2008 dip Sales boost January retail figures Retailers set for prosperous Valentine's Day Groups warn on danger of toy imports Government needs to raise small business legal awareness FWD outline annual conference plans Shop price inflation rises eBay abandons buyer negative comments European retail sales dip in December Demand for British goods increases Cashback websites battling high street for customers US wholesale prices increase Organisations to petition bag ban Capital Gains Tax may not be compatible with EU law Archive January trade news 2008   22 February 2008   Independent retailers urged to "assess everything" Independent retailers and other small firms have been urged to "assess everything" in an attempt to keep a handle on finances over the coming months. According to the Federation of Small Businesses, 2008 may be a tough year for a number of retailers so keeping a close eye on expenditure could be crucial. And with retailers maintaining a rein on spending, wholesalers will also be expected to do the same, with stock movement likely to dip slightly. Simon Briault, a spokesperson for the organisation, confirmed that limiting expense could mean the difference between success and failure for some independent retailers. "Our advice is that you assess everything - everyone should do that to make sure that they are making the savings where they can," he said. "The important thing is to take some time and see where your business is at the moment and what is likely to happen. Try and forecast as much as possible," he added.     (c) 2008 Adfero Ltd.     Subscribe to The Wholesaler UK regular newsletter featuring trade news, suppliers offers and trade show reminders. . .