Retailer Success
12 Ways Retailers Can Manage During a Slowdown Without Layoffs
February 2025
White Paper Overview
According to a McKinsey survey of businesses during the 2008 recession (and aftermath), 65% of companies resorted to layoffs.
This was up from 5% in 1979 and 45% in 1994.
Many companies are quick to reduce headcount or focus on other cost-cutting measures during a recession or during periods of uncertainty. While headcount reductions may be the quickest way to achieve cost savings, they can often lead to reductions in employee morale and a hit to a company’s reputation.
12 Ways Retailers Can Manage During a Recession
The purpose of this white paper is to identify 12 strategies retailers can take during uncertain periods that aren’t only focused on headcount reductions. We have broken down these ideas by the following four common company strategic objectives:
Revenue Growth
Improved Customer Satisfaction
Increased Customer Retention
Cost Reduction/Cost Controls
This white paper identifies 12 ways retailers can manage during a recession or slowdown without cutting personnel.