When it comes to barbecue in the Midwest, Robinson’s Ribs stands as a symbol of retail success. 

Behind it all is Charlie Robinson, a man whose vision and hard work shaped a business beloved by the community and celebrated far beyond it.

From winning the 1982 Mike Royko Ribfest to running a thriving restaurant and retail business, Charlie Robinson is the blueprint for anyone aiming to succeed in the competitive world of retail.

Here are six tips for working in retail that we’ve learned from his inspiring journey.

1. Find What Makes You Unique 

Robinson’s Ribs was born from a moment of triumph. After beating 482 contestants at the Mike Royko Ribfest and earning the title “Mr. Barbecue,” Charlie Robinson knew he had something special. “Out of 480 contestants when the sun went down that Sunday evening, I was crowned Mr. Barbecue of 1982.,” Robinson shared proudly. 

For those in the retail industry, success often starts with identifying what sets you apart. If you have a special product or a compelling story, use that to establish a strong foundation for your business. 

2. Highlight Your Craftsmanship 

At Robinson’s Ribs, craftsmanship is more than a practice—it’s a promise. Charlie Robinson’s commitment to excellence is evident in every rib, bottle of sauce, and interaction. This dedication has made Robinson’s a trusted brand, proving that quality keeps customers coming back.

Consider how much time you spend pouring into your craft. Curating handmade goods, offering personalized services, and delivering innovative products scream “high quality” to customers. Recognize that craftsmanship isn’t just about the products but the care and pride behind every offering.

3. Make it Memorable

What truly sets Robinson’s Ribs apart is the experience. Beyond the smoky flavor and tangy sauce, Robinson’s hospitality and commitment to excellence make every visit special. From catering events to welcoming customers to its Sunday buffet, the restaurant offers more than just food—it provides memories.

For those in retail, creating memorable experiences is one of the most powerful tips for working retail. Personalized interactions, thoughtful gestures, and going the extra mile for your customers can build loyalty that lasts a lifetime.

4. Mentor Your Employees  

Charlie Robinson’s commitment to hiring and mentoring young employees highlights the transformative power of retail and food service jobs. With the right leadership, employees can learn valuable lessons about the industry and turn a retail job into a career.  

You, too, can cultivate a culture of mentorship by taking the time to teach your employees more than just the basics. Spilling industry knowledge and encouraging hands-on learning makes work more meaningful and creates a space for growth and connection. 

5. Stay Determined 

Running a restaurant or retail business isn’t without its hurdles. From shifting culinary trends to the trials of the COVID-19 pandemic, Robinson knows the importance of resilience. 

For retail workers and business owners alike, perseverance is the key to long-term success. Seasons are slow, and customer preferences change, so grit and determination are needed to keep everything afloat.   

6. Expand Your Offerings

One of Robinson’s smartest moves was expanding into retail by selling his famous sauces and spices. This shift allowed his family’s culinary legacy to reach new customers and provided a diverse revenue stream that supported the business during tough times.

So, think big! Thinking outside the box can create many more opportunities for you and your brand. If you’re a storefront, consider offering online options, making unique gift packages during the holiday season, or branching into complementary products to diversify your business. 

7. Prioritize Customer Feedback

One of the keys to Robinson’s success is his ability to listen to customers and adapt accordingly. When demand for healthier and plant-based options grew, Robinson diversified his menu to include meals that met those needs. This willingness to adjust based on customer input expanded his reach and deepened customer loyalty.

Actively seek customer feedback and use this input to refine your products, services, and overall customer experience. Staying tuned to what your customers need can help you stay relevant and ahead of the competition.

8. Focus on Visual Branding and Packaging

Robinson’s expansion into retail wasn’t just about putting his famous sauce on shelves—it was also about the branding and packaging. From bold colors to clear messaging, Robinson’s products are instantly recognizable, making them impossible for customers to miss.

Your packaging should communicate your product’s unique value while being eye-catching enough to compete on a crowded shelf or online marketplace. Remember, strong visuals are often the first interaction a customer has with your brand.

9. Leverage Local Partnerships

Robinson’s Ribs didn’t grow alone—it used community connections to garner attention and bring in new customers. Partnering with events like Ribfest built credibility and created a platform to showcase their exceptional products to the right audience.

Forming partnerships with local businesses, community organizations, or high-profile events can be the catalyst for your retail success. These collaborations increase your visibility and foster deeper trust within your community. 

10. Embrace Digital Marketing Trends

As retail evolves, so should your marketing. For Robinson’s Ribs, growth meant that they needed to invest in digital marketing strategies to keep up with the competition. Social media promotions, email marketing campaigns and search engine optimization (SEO) offered them the tools to connect with customers in ways they never thought possible. 

By embracing these trends, you can engage with your audience, drive traffic to your products, and grow your brand’s footprint far beyond physical locations. Leveraging digital platforms ensures that your brand stays top of mind long after your customers leave. 

Conclusion

Charlie Robinson’s story is a masterclass of grit, passion and purpose. From his first Ribfest win to building a retail empire, his journey reminds us that success in retail comes from hard work, mentorship, and a willingness to innovate.

By following Robinson’s example and incorporating these tips for retail workers, you can succeed in your career while making a meaningful impact. Whether you’re grilling ribs or stocking shelves, the lessons from Robinson’s Ribs prove that resilience and heart go a long way.

If you were inspired by Robinson’s story and know a retailer who deserves recognition, Nominate A Retailer to submit your nomination!