Fall 2013 Hardlines Strategies

MARKET PREVIEW

Measure Up At the Blish-Mize Fall Buying Market, Sept. 13-14 H ow does your store measure up to the competition? If you’re in search of new products to wow your customers, assortments to keep them coming back

The Fall Market, held Sept. 13-14 at the Overland Park Convention Center in Overland Park, Kan., will give you the tools you need to outshine your competition. Vendors from across the industry will be offering innovative new products and will be on hand to answer your questions. Informative seminars will give you the industry insights critical to your success at retail. Best of all, there will be big promotions on key products and cash drawings to put extra money in your pocket. “It’s always good to step away from your store for a moment and get a fresh perspective on your business,” says Blish-Mize Vice President of Marketing Chuck Short. “We offer many ways for you to get that fresh perspective, from seminars to our Mini-Store to new vendors. Spend a little time in Overland Park at the Market, and we’ll turn that into a big value for you.” Of course, veteran attendees know the Market isn’t all work and no play. Friday evening, Blish-Mize will treat you to a dinner by the famous Jack Stack Barbecue. and insights into shoppers’ buying habits that will give you the competitive edge, then look to the Blish-Mize Fall Buying Market.

your normal items at good discounts and dating terms,” says Short. “Plan those purchases before you leave, and then you will have more time to see new products and newer ways to present both new and old products in your store.” Buying at a discounted rate should only be part of your strategy. Make sure your assortments are up to date and complete, and that you are utilizing proper merchandising techniques to draw customers through your store. If it’s been a while since you reset a particular category, use the Market to talk with vendors about how you should rework it. “Our vendors will have many opportunities for you to buy product at great pricing and terms. This will be one of the best opportunities of the year to improve your margins,” says Short.

Then, Dueling Pianos will take the stage in a music- and fun-filled evening of entertainment. “Dueling Pianos is one of my favorite entertainers. Spike Blake (one of the performers) is a riot and he gets the crowd involved from the start!” says Blish-Mize Communications Director Blish Connor. “It is sure to be a fun evening and Jack Stack Barbecue is always a hit.” Throughout the Market, you’ll also enjoy the company of retailers like yourself, giving you time to share stories and get some ideas to take back to your store. Start Planning Now If you want to make the most of your time at Market, the best strategy starts with planning your purchases now. “The Market will offer opportunities to increase your margins by replenishing

16 Fall 2013 • Hardlines Strategies