Everyone loves a winner. And we’re all intrigued by why top retail brands are scoring big with consumers, and why legacy brands are experiencing renewed growth. The reasons behind any retail brand’s success are complex and influenced by next-gen behavioral trends, cultural memes, the power of value, and more recently, migration patterns. In 2023, retail beauty and self-care retailers outperformed as did value-driven dollar stores. The membership warehouse clubs held their own. And no surprise, second-hand, resale brands are growing. In a new report, Placer has identified 10 top retail brands poised to take off in 2024 in a new report, available to Robin Report readers. 

Ever heard of Harbor Freight Tools? Well, it sells tools and equipment in 1,400 locations in 48 states and was founded by the Smidt family 46 years ago. They bill themselves as the “go-to store for low prices on power tools, generators, jacks, toolboxes and more.

There are valuable lessons for all retailers in the analysis and back stories of how each of these brands is ready for growth this year. Each is a litmus test for what factors into retail success. Here’s a sneak preview of a selective sampling of their top picks to pique your curiosity about what it takes to be a winner.

• Everyone recognizes the distinctive N logo on New Balance sports shoes. They are becoming new sneaker selects for next gens while not losing their popularity with older customers. Read about why this American icon established over a century ago is experiencing a renaissance.
• Ever heard of Harbor Freight Tools? Well, it sells tools and equipment in 1,400 locations in 48 states and was founded by the Smidt family 46 years ago. They bill themselves as the “go-to store for low prices on power tools, generators, jacks, toolboxes and more.” Find out how their local store strategy and value positioning are on point for their growing base of loyal customers.
• On trend with the demand for secondhand discoveries and its role in supporting sustainable retail, Winmark franchises five retail resale brands. With a diversified portfolio, Winmark focuses on musical instruments, kids’ clothes and toys, sports equipment. and women’s apparel. Learn how they mastered the resale market, developed niche customer bases, and are on a growth trajectory for 2024.
• And veteran Trader Joe’s, a Californian pioneer in alternative grocery when Joe Colombe named his new venture as a riff of Trader Vic’s, is on a roll with a new generation of savvy customers. With a stake in social and sustainable responsibility, Trader Joe’s feeds into the sweet spot of next gen consumers.