+------------------------------------------------------------------+ We Cannot Stand Still By J. M. GIBSON General Manager, Calgary Retail _IF there is no forward movement, we must slide back, as the power of gravity ever grips where motion has ceased. The business, great or small, that comes to a stand-still with a smile of self-satisfaction is heading for the shelf of dry rot. Every business must strive in its present year to beat that of the past, to beat the turnover, the service, the public good-will and the net results. The very strife after these ends develops the initiative, broadens the aspect and reproduces better men; therefore do not hesitate, never stop, but always keep climbing._ +------------------------------------------------------------------+ How Shipping Rates on Goods Affect Stores' Salespower _What Change Should be Made in Proposed New Freight Classification (No. 17)?_ By J. BROWN _Editor's Note._--_A circular letter, dated, 7th January, from one of the best organized trade associations of Canada, indicates that meetings are to be held soon to consider the application of the proposed new freight classification (No. 17)._ THE latterday high cost of transportation so vitally affects the salespower of the Company's department stores (as well as other wholesale or retail stores in Western Canada) that favourable groupings of certain classes of goods under the proposed new freight classification (No. 17) are considered important in view of the Company's great problem of distribution. While the new schedule is under consideration, H.B.C. traffic men will see the advantage of working to secure a spread of _two classes_ between less-than-carload and full carload ratings on drygoods. It is reported also that every effort will be made to convince carriers that certain lines of drygoods should be listed separately or in greatly restricted groups, instead of being carried, as at present, under extensive groups. It is apparent that an important saving for H.B.C. stores would result from such re-classification in view of the 35 per cent. difference between first and third class and first and second class ratings. Under the proposed new freight classification (No. 17), certain drygoods shipped in carlots will take a _second class_ rate. The present classification (No. 16) on such drygoods gives no advantage in rate for carloads. Why classification No. 17 (under consideration) proposes to allow a difference of only one class between L.C.L. and carloads of this commodity is not clear, inasmuch as for other lines of goods a difference of _two classes_ is allowed when shipped by the carload. Drygoods certainly should be entitled to take _third class_ rate in carloads.