FROM THE EDITOR: Peace, Love, Customers

Hey everyone!

Hard to believe we are still in the midst of Winter… it sure does seem like one of our longest ever, doesn’t it? That said, one of the many perks of being an independent retailer is getting away to tradeshows throughout the year – which often means heading somewhere warm (or at least warmer than where you are coming from). For me, that means heading to Vegas this upcoming March for the ASD Show! Twice a year, I love attending this show because it brings in such a diverse crowd of merchants and vendors alike. And this March, as an added bonus, the ASD Show is introducing the Independent Retailer Conference for the first time ever at a trade show to all their show attendees. Pretty neat, huh? Our keynote speakers I am lucky to call friends, Kizer & Bender, as well as we have some AMAZING companies joining us to deliver fantastic, informative education sessions as well as be available on-site for all 4 days of the show to connect with retailers. This includes Shopify.com, SnapRetail, Constant Contant, ShoppinPal, Retail Studio Effects, and more! I can’t wait to head west for both the ASD Show and the IRC all in one place… and hope you’ll join me! PLUS, if you’re a retailer it’s free to attend. You can’t be that, right? More details here! 

On a much different note, this winter I have been super busy researching independent retailers and what you want to gain from all your retail supporters. Basically, what is it you want from the folks, companies, consultants and media who want to help YOU? There are so many avenues for you to gain great information and support, but sometimes too much is just that… too much. In an effort to not bombard you with information that means nothing to you, I am trying to identify your 2014 interests, needs and wish-lists. So here’s where you come in to help. So just what is it you want from your retail supporters anyway? I have my ideas, but without always challenging myself to do better or asking you directly, how can I ever be a 100% certain we’re doing our best at helping you?

Speaking of help, have you met Retail Minded’s 2014 Advisory Board yet? These folks are truly awesome retail supporters, and I’m thrilled to have them on our side to help you in 2014 gain more news, more support and more education for your unique retail stores!

Finally, I hope you have signed up for Retail Minded’s weekly newsletter. We offer valuable, informative insight uniquely for independent retailers, as well introduce you to some great webinars, events and more. If you haven’t yet, I hope you will! On that note… here’s wishing you peace, love & customers!
Happy Retailing,

PS – Can’t make it to ASD in March? Join us in NYC on April 14, 2014 for our flagship Independent Retailer Conference! Code “CHALLENGER” will get you $50 off… how nice is that? Register here!