The Opportunity in the Dover Crash

Glenn sits down with Rose from Equus Now and Mary from Kerrits to unpack what the Dover Saddlery closures really mean for the equestrian retail industry. They explore how independent tack shops and small to mid-size manufacturers can turn Dover’s liquidation into opportunity through smarter inventory management, omni-channel selling, and stronger vendor–retailer partnerships. The conversation covers vendor credit risk, the role of private equity in niche equine businesses, using events and community-building to drive traffic, and practical strategies to keep core products in stock while still offering “good, better, best” assortments. It’s a must-listen for tack store owners, equine brands, and anyone navigating the changing landscape of horse retail.

WESA Retail Roundup June 10, 2026:

Time Stamps:

  • 03:30 – Dover history & ownership changes
  • 05:30 – Millers/Iselin collapse parallel
  • 07:45 – Fire sale fears & real inventory picture
  • 10:25 – Vendor risk, terms & big accounts
  • 12:10 – Diversifying beyond Dover
  • 13:05 – How local retailers capture Dover customers
  • 14:50 – Events, community & vendor-supported promos
  • 17:35 – Credit limits, communication & due diligence
  • 21:20 – Private equity: good, bad & misunderstood
  • 26:50 – Future of small tack shops & omni-channel
  • 28:50 – What new shops should NOT do
  • 31:50 – Core product, inventory tools & final takeaways

Listen Now

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