Interesting that the Smithsonian Institution does a great job of displaying the 138,843,570 items it possesses, but its underperforming museum stores are in “substantial turmoil.” In some shops, the high-priced items are on the bottom floor, while the better-selling low-priced items require a walk up stairs. That’s according to a consultant’s report obtained by The Washington Post and summarized on its website.

The institution’s spokespeople challenge the report, but confirm that “America’s attic” has requested proposals from outside vendors to run its 30 stores. My take after reading the article is that the stores’ poor merchandising stems from the Smithsonian trying to run its stores like a government agency. And we all know how efficient that can be ;).

It’s a shame that the cash-strapped institution has trouble turning some of its most-visited spaces into cash machines. Maybe its retail managers should take a cue from Reebok. Their upcoming New York flagship store will be 3,750 square feet devoted to ice hockey-related merchandise. This article from BostonHerald.com tells how the shoe company is partnering with the National Hockey League to carry NHL-licensed clothing, headwear, accessories and equipment, plus Reebok footwear and clothing. There’ll even be a hockey-themed Starbucks at the rear of the store.

But wait, there’s more: A floating hockey-stick sculpture comprised of more than 400 real sticks and interlaced with flat-panel monitors will hang over the cashier’s desk. The killer for me is an entire wall made of real ice. It will be a backdrop for the merchandise.

I think the Smithsonian should tell its retail staff to do what I’ve been preaching for years: Take a look at the great retail stores that abound in every major city. They can serve as inspiration for any retailer, whether the nation’s attic or the corner antique store.

I wish the Smithsonian’s staff all the best if they take the consultant’s report to heart. In the meantime, they should ask Reebok for a sneak peek at their flagship store. I doubt they’ll get a chilly reception.