Bangor, ME — Valentine Consulting Partners is pleased to share that founder Summer Allen was featured on the national podcast Rooted in Retail

In the episode, Allen talks candidly with host Crystal Vilkaitis about running her brick and mortar footwear boutique, Valentine Footwear, for 12 years, how she embraced the process of closing her store, and what she teaches retailers now: lead with values, hire sooner, and treat inventory like your lifeblood. “Your store isn’t a museum—don’t let your inventory celebrate a birthday,” she says.

She also reframes change: “Closing my store was a joyful transition. If the business no longer fits, it’s okay to change your mind and move forward with integrity.”

Through Valentine Consulting Partners, Allen now helps retail store owners who have opened their doors and are ready for what’s next—whether that means growing, evolving, or gracefully closing a chapter. She’s currently welcoming new clients who want a guide for their next phase in business.

Listen to the episode: https://rootedinretail.com/episodes/simplify-serve-and-succeed-retail-insights-with-summer-allen/