Leaping along - 23 Apr 2012

February's retail trade sales showed a year-on-year increase, with the leap year attributed to the extra spring in its step, Stats SA reported last week. The Spark Cash Index also reported a rise in cash withdrawals over the Easter period.

New research shows loyalty programmes are growing as discretionary spending slows; Integer SA delve into Dad's buying habits, while Carat checks out a new purchasing demographic in young urban men.

Natasha Maroun gives advice on how to manage the risk of owning a jewellery store, and Charles Pittaway tells us how to survive entrepreneurial challenges.

In partnerships this past week, GlossyBox and Stuttafords wrapped up a deal which will produce its first deliveries in June. And just this morning, Pick n Pay Express and BP announced the formalization of plans to roll out more small-format PnP stores at BP service stations.

Lastly, for those Capetonians with a love for the fine, sweeter things in life, the new Lindt Chocolate Studio & Boutique has opened at the Cape Quarter.

Bon appetit!