Anatomy of a Startup

Hambleton says his biggest challenge this year is building a team to execute his plans.

—Donna Loyle

Consultants’ Advice

—Stephen R. Lett, president, Lett Direct
I admire Mr. Hambleton’s entrepreneurial spirit and tolerance for risk — key ingredients to building a successful catalog. Another key ingredient is deep pockets. Retailers usually aren’t emotionally prepared for the catalog expenses coming so far in advance of making the sale. Here’s my advice.