Success only runs one direction....
Yes, it’s tough out there, and we all know that’s when the crankies get crankier…and the superstars shine brighter.
Last week, you heard me rant about how a certain group of vendors are playing hard ball with retailers, making it virtually impossible to carry their lines (or want to). Today, we’re looking at the other side of the coin, at companies large and small who prefer loyalty and compassion over muscle and veiled threats. [click here to continue…]
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Since NSS, I’ve heard a handful of vendors (try to ) justify their direct-to-consumer sales and Tiny Prints or Shutterfly participation with the argument that retailers really don’t mind, as long as they sell at the same price point as stores.
This falls soundly in the “Huh???” column of my book [click here to continue…]
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You’ve heard me preach talk about the importance of exhibiting at the National Stationery Show. As the only paper-driven market in the country, there’s no Plan B that approaches the same level of visibility with the stationery buyer demographic.
Unfortunately, a crumby economy has a tendency to fuel the rumor mill, and today’s hot topic seems to be some crazy story that vendors are fleeing NSS in droves. Let me be the first to assure you, not true. Having discussed this with sources high in the GLM food chain, I can confirm the Javitz remains packed with hundreds of vendors-—new and old.
Oddly, the one voice missing in all this is that of the buyers. Until now, that is.
Today’s question:
What do you think about vendors skipping NSS?
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Welcome to the first “RetailSpeaks IQ” blog post where retailers share their opinions about what’s really going on at the grass roots level.
Several weeks ago, stationery retailers received bone-rattling news: The Consortium, a collection of three major brands (Elite, Jansson and Chase), was closing the doors just as spring brides were beginning to select their stationery and invitations. Whether downmarket or upscale, those retailers felt the ground shake while watching up to 35% of their personalized selection disappear from the shelves on a moment’s notice.
Today’s question:
How concerned are you about the stability of your vendors in today’s financial climate?
Not a member of RetailSpeaks? Feel free to chime in. If you like the idea of discussing and learning about things that impact your business as an independent retailer, check out RetailSpeaks.com. Your aren’t alone out there.
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