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Boutiques Get Squeezed
The once flourishing independent fashion boutiques are among the retail industry's hardest hit by economic woes. The credit crisis and the sharp downturn in consumer spending have left many boutique owners as cash-strapped as their customers.

Stores Count Seconds to Cut Costs
With nearly all retailers under the gun to cut costs and improve profit margins, "labor-waste elimination" systems are sweeping the industry.
Some Firms Suspend 401(k) Match
A growing number of small businesses are suspending their 401(k) match, and, in some instances, closing retirement plans altogether.
Advantages of Leasing Equipment
Kelly Spors answers a reader question about the advantages of leasing equipment for a company, instead of buying or financing.
Late Payers Hurt Small Businesses
Small Firms' Take On Insurance Reform
In Chaos Lies Opportunity
Prescription for Change
States Set New Data Privacy Laws
Firms Struggle With Commodities Costs
My Brain, Your Brawn
A Perfect Match?
Small Talk
Executive Summary
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Companies Trim as Business Slows
Companies are looking for cuts in every budgetary nook and cranny in an economy dragged down by slowing consumption, an imploding stock market and tight credit.
Looking to Executive M.B.A.s to Help Grow a Business
Business owners look to executive M.B.A. programs for help improving their operations, profits and business models, a Wall Street Journal survey shows.
Starting Up
What Business Owners Should Know About Patenting
Patent lawyer James McDonough discusses the steps that inventors can take to protect their intellectual property.