Pier 1 Imports – “Will Pier 1 survive?”

Pros

Nice product mix, with lots of fun, eye catching merchandise. Customers really seem to enjoy the Pier 1 experience which translates into a friendly customer base. I have yet to come across a crabby customer. The store manager is pleasant and professional. The sales staff is also pleasant. Reduced work hours on holidays and holiday pay is a bonus.

Cons

Viability of the company is in question, therefore job security is questionable. Pay is on the low side, even for retail. Scheduled work hours are cut indiscriminately; unless one is a manager it appears that one cannot plan for a regular paycheck to pay for a mortgage, etc. Some customers find it intrusive to ask for a phone number AND email address prior to checking out. Career growth at this time seems unlikely although I hope for the best.

Advice to Senior Management

My only hope is that senior management is able to return Pier 1 to its former glory. This is a monumental challenge given today's difficult retail environment and (price point) pressure from Target, Wal-Mart, etc.