Retail Observer

RETAILOBSERVER.COM AUGUST 2017 58 B U Y I N G G R O U P N E W S B randSource membership will once again converge at Caesar's Palace Hotel and Casino for its bi-annual convention in sunny Las Vegas. Beginning on Sunday, August 27th, the eagerly awaited four-day convention will feature over 200 exhibitors showcasing the latest models in the home appliance, bedding, furniture, outdoor, and electronics industries. The exhibits will be supplemented by a litany of educational seminars, region meetings, manufacturer's product tutorials, and informative workshops. The convention will also feature an impressive roster of guest speakers that will cover a whole host of subjects designed to inform and inspire BrandSource members. Aside from the event's business related activities, the convention's agenda offers several opportunities for attendees to socialize and network while basking in the desert sun. As always, BrandSource seeks to congratulate its membership on another successful year while providing a welcome introduction to new members. The convention's numerous product offerings are guaranteed to turn members' heads as they navigate the maze of exhibitions occupying over 200,000 sq. ft. of space on three floors of the hotel. Representatives from Electrolux, Whirlpool, GE, LG, Samsung, Sealy, and Serta will all be on hand to educate new members on a dazzling array of new products. Members will also be treated to several interesting lectures including Dan Miller's "Training the Trainer: Teaching Your Personnel How to Sell Protection Plans," Jim Carroll's "Discussion Panel on Connected Home Appliances," Daniel Abramson's "Managing a Three–Generational Workforce," and Dr. Sabrina Starling's "Meetings that Motivate and Drive Profit." These thought-provoking lectures by industry veterans offer members a look into the thought processes of some of the keenest minds in the retail business. As in past conventions, the Women in Business luncheon, the Young Professionals meeting, and the General Session & Stampede are among the most prominent items on the event's agenda. The Women in Business luncheon provides a forum for dedicated female leaders in the industry to meet and exchange ideas. The luncheon is indicative of the changing face of the industry where female business owners have become a force to be reckoned with. The Young Professionals group is dedicated to finding the next generation of leaders within the independent retail industry. This highly-motivated assortment of young entrepreneurs schedules a much-anticipated meeting at each convention in an effort to develop innovative approaches to business and add to its ever-growing numbers. Meanwhile, the venerable General Session & Stampede offers members an opportunity to find deals of a lifetime on designated products. Amid the product training, lectures, and assorted special events, attendees will also find themselves with a unique opportunity to fraternize with fellow members in a casual setting. Through a series of daily receptions, breakfast, lunches, and dinners, BrandSource allows its membership to truly get to know each other while discussing personal approaches to their individual businesses. It is perhaps each member's willingness to assist fellow members that has made the BrandSource family so strong. BrandSource's conventions each year provide a stark reminder of why the merchandising group has achieved such success. Its commitment to personal relationships, with both members and dealers alike, and its ability to adapt to changes in the retail environment have cemented a unique brand of loyalty. Yearly events that intermingle the education of its members with casual social outings have produced enormous dividends for its membership. With its eye perpetually on the future of the independent retail industry, BrandSource has strategically placed forward-thinking events such as the Women in Business luncheon and the Young Professionals meeting on the convention's agenda in an effort to prepare its membership for the future. In the ever–changing world of retail, BrandSource's adaptability may well be one of its greatest strengths. With this in mind, BrandSource invites its membership to its latest convention in the Las Vegas desert for an event that is equal parts business and pleasure. For BrandSource members, old and new, the convention represents a celebration of sorts for the success of the past year and a hope for the continuing fortune of its members in the years ahead! Hope to see you there! RO SIN CITY READIES FOR THE ARRIVAL OF BRANDSOURCE'S LATEST CONVENTION

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