Networking and retail are more connected than you realize. 

Behind every standout store or buzzing restaurant is usually a network of mentors, partners, suppliers, and friends. 

Just ask John Avila, chef and owner of Rendang Republic in Chicago, an Indonesian restaurant that specializes in Padang cuisine, whose business is built on powerful professional relationships. 

Read on to learn seven tips from John’s story on how networking and connections are the real secret sauce in retail success.

1. Forge Foundational Business Partnerships

Rendang Republic is a direct result of a strong partnership. Chef John Avila met his business partner, Rizal Hamdallah, in the summer of 2024. Rizal reached out to John, and after one meeting, the two decided to launch something special together. That partnership brought investment and a depth of industry knowledge that accelerated the restaurant’s launch. 

Without that first outreach, Rendang Republic might still be an idea instead of the success story that it is today.

Your next great idea can start with a single introduction. If you focus on forming strong retail partnerships in the early stages, it can lead to long-term sustainability and success. Having the knowledge, expertise, and money from two parties allows you to share resources and double your ability to adapt and grow. 

2. Access Diverse Industry Expertise and Concepts

Rizal brought a wealth of knowledge from the Indonesian restaurant world to his partnership with John. That experience gave John the business acumen and operational guidance to help Rendang Republic remain profitable. It also allowed him to build a menu that authentically reflected his culture while being strategic in business execution. All of those benefits would have been hard to achieve without collaboration.

Connecting networking and retail will give you access to a wide range of ideas that could reshape how you run your business. Learning from others who have already succeeded in different sectors will help you discover new systems and approaches. Having conversations with experienced industry professionals can spark changes in product lines, store layouts, and retail marketing strategies that can then position you for great success. 

3. Leverage Prior Professional Relationships for Unique Product Offerings

Before opening his own place, John worked at a Michelin-starred restaurant where he formed a strong culinary bond with his friend and former colleague, Chef Kevin. That relationship inspired John to feature one of Chef Kevin’s specialty creations, a unique hot dog, on the Rendang Republic menu. By including this dish, John was able to bring a meaningful backstory to the table, enriching the overall customer experience with authenticity and connection.

In retail networking, past professional ties often unlock new opportunities, such as:

• Introducing unique product lines: Featuring items developed by trusted contacts adds variety and can differentiate your store from competitors.
• Building products with a backstory: Collaborations based on real relationships bring authenticity and storytelling value that resonate with customers.
• Enhancing brand personality: Curated items from your network reflect your store’s values and deepen its identity.

These relationships make your business offerings more personal, more curated, and less likely to be replicated. Stay in touch with former collaborators to turn your experience into innovation.

4. Benefit from Cross-Business Collaboration

John’s decision to sell The Duck Inn’s hot dog is a prime example of how cross-promotion collaboration benefits everyone involved. Rendang Republic was able to diversify its menu while promoting a respected peer in the industry. The partnership built community buzz and gave customers a story to share.

In networking and retail, cross-business promotions expand your reach. When two businesses support one another, they introduce each other to new audiences. The shared effort builds visibility, credibility, and customer excitement. With in-store placements and joint marketing, everyone wins.

5. Build and Maintain Supply Chain Networks

At Rendang Republic, John is committed to having quality and reliable ingredients.  To do so, he maintains regular contact with his suppliers, speaking to them daily or weekly. These types of relationships have grown through trust and ongoing conversation, resulting in him sourcing hard-to-find spices and maintaining a high level of consistency with every dish. 

A dependable supply chain starts with strong relationships. When vendors understand your needs, they’re more willing to step up when challenges arise. Here are a few ways to network effectively with your supply chain:

• Schedule regular check-ins: Weekly or monthly calls keep communication open and prevent surprises.
• Attend industry events and expos: Meeting suppliers face-to-face can deepen trust and spark new partnerships.
• Be responsive and respectful: Quick replies and professional courtesy go a long way in building mutual respect.
• Share your goals and values: Let suppliers in on your vision so they feel like partners.

Strong networking habits like these build the trust that keeps everything running behind the scenes. Your supply chain can only be as resilient as the relationships you invest in.

6. Foster Mutual Demand and Growth Within Your Network

John shared that his business created new demand for specific ingredients among his suppliers. His Indonesian menu encouraged vendors to carry items they might not have considered before. That demand helped grow the availability of authentic products in the area. Rendang Republic’s growth supported the entire supply network.

The same dynamic exists with networking and retail. When one store introduces a new trend, others often follow, and suppliers expand their offerings to meet demand. Your growth can elevate your entire network, and that collaboration can become a shared engine for everyone’s success.

7. Engage Community Networks for Authentic Validation and Feedback

John actively listens to feedback from the Indonesian community in Chicago.

 John shares that, “Yes, the Indonesian community has a huge impact on my place. They’re very important customers to us because if they don’t approve of the food, then how do I expect any other community to come in here and be like, oh, this is what Indonesian food is.”

Their input helps keep his food true to its roots while still appealing to new audiences. The relationship between him and his community also creates accountability and excellence.

This kind of connection is powerful. You never know who you will meet and connect with when you start networking in your community. Community members often serve as brand ambassadors and honest critics. Their feedback can lead to better products, stronger word-of-mouth marketing, and a real sense of shared ownership in your brand’s journey.

Conclusion

The success of Rendang Republic is based on smart relationships, collaboration, and community. John Avila shows that when networking and retail work hand in hand, the results are flavorful, resilient, and far-reaching. 

If you’re opening your first storefront or expanding a seasoned business, know that surrounding yourself with the right people can transform your journey. Build your network first, and watch your storefront grow into something worth talking about.

Want to learn more about other Illinois retail leaders? Read inspiring stories from retailers across Illinois who are making a difference.

If you loved learning about the story of Rendang Republic and know a retailer who deserves recognition, Nominate A Retailer!