A DECADE OF GROWTH

By Eliana Barriga
Publisher and Managing Editor for The Retail Observer

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Eliana Barriga

Wow, 10 years of growing with The Retail Observer! How quickly they’ve passed, and how many changes have occurred in the industry during that time. Those in the industry have weathered the storms of a recession and are learning to market themselves and their products to a new client base, and are seeing results for their efforts.

On a personal note, when Moe and I first entered this venture and spoke with Chuck Edmonds — founder of The Retail Observer — about continuing his dream, we had no idea that it would grow into the publication it is today. With Moe’s experience in the appliance industry/sales and my design/build background, we forged ahead, and with the expertise of others in the industry, The Retail Observer has grown from a 32-page regional “news rag” into an internationally-read magazine. We couldn’t be happier with the outcome.

I have really enjoyed the connection with the independent retailers: the mom and pops, the interactions with their families, and the ability to watch their businesses grow. It feels good to know we have been part of their experience in growing and managing their businesses, and we will continuously strive to source new and pertinent information for our retailers and the industry.

Ithasbeenanamazingexperiencetotravelaroundthenationand abroad, visiting manufacturing facilities and gaining exposure to different corporate cultures. These diverse ways of doing business have helped shape our field and bring a broader sense of how our industry is being run.

As always, the driving force of The Retail Observer is to supply education and opportunities to retailers and designers so that not only will their businesses thrive, but that they will be able to help their clients make the best choices for themselves and their families.
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We have enjoyed our journey over the past 10 years and thank all of those who have helped us grow — our manufacturers, associations, buying groups and our employees. We especially thank you, our readers. You are the heart of The Retail Observer.

With gratitude,
Eliana Barriga
[email protected]

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