Mary Portas is my new retail hero. Her BBC TV show, “Mary Queen of Shops,” hasn’t made it to this side of the world yet. But I wouldn’t be surprised if an American version is in the works, possibly with a different star (I’m available).

This article in England’s Mail Online tells all about the show. I love the premise: Portas, who owns a leading branding agency, is the consumers’ champion when it comes to small retail shops, especially clothing stores. She is “sick of surly shop assistants and wants to put the joy back into shopping,” the article says.

On the show, Portas works with owners to turn their stores around in five weeks — and not just turn around employee attitudes but also window displays, merchandise selection and even the clothing the entire staff wears.

Like me, she feels that too many store owners don’t do enough research before opening their doors to the public. That can be the kiss of death in this age of cookie-cutter retailers moving into any and all neighborhoods. If you don’t know what your competition is doing, how can you expect to ever attract their customers?

Portas also sets a good example for retailers. She puts her children above everything and advises you to never work for anyone who doesn’t do the same. Sound advice, coming from a woman who was orphaned at age 18.

Make sure you read Portas’ Golden Rules of Shopping. They’re aimed at consumers, of course. But as a retailer, you need to know what she’s telling them because it affects you. Rule No. 1: “If you don’t get good service you are effectively being ripped off. Remember, it’s part of the margin built into the ticket price.” That’s one of the best arguments for great service I’ve ever heard.

Check out Portas’ website as well. Watch some clips from her show’s first season. Consider reading her book for shoppers. I think you will find her to be a royal pain in your side — a pain that hurts so good.