By Eliana Barriga
Publisher and Managing Editor for The Retail Observer

At Nationwide PrimeTime! we had the opportunity to meet with Whirlpool North American Sales VP, Sam Abdelnour. His message to the independents was not so much about selling products, but more about remembering our connection to one another. This will go a long way in building your business through more meaningful relationships with your patrons, and also bring more fulfillment to your personal life.

Sam explained that he has noticed more and more Millennial job candidates asking questions about how Whirlpool is giving back, going green and supporting their communities. The world is changing and more and more people care about who runs the companies they do business with and what they stand for, who they support and where their money is spent.

We were thrilled to find out that our new ‘Heart of the Industry’ website page, showcasing the charitable efforts of Snow Brothers Appliance and the American Cancer Society was referenced during Sam’s presentation. We know that there are many dealers giving back to their communities as well, but not as many are promoting their giving. This is unfortunate since letting others know what you care about will inspire them to join the cause or support one of their own. Giving…making a difference in someone’s life and no amount of contribution is too small, whether you ran an entire fundraising event or donated a proceed of your sales to a worthy cause. We encourage you to share your stories with us so we can spread the good vibes across
the industry!

We don’t think it was a coincidence that Whirlpool’s booth was swarming with people during the PrimeTime! event. At the end of the day, we are all looking for the same thing—being understood and feeling like we belong and matter to a person, to a community or to a company.

Looking forward to sharing more of your stories,
Eliana
[email protected]

By Moe Lastfogel
Director of Sales and Marketing for The Retail Observer

Last month was the time for Buying Group Shows, and the events were awesome! Nationwide kicked off first in Vegas, followed by BrandSource in Orlando and Mega in Dallas.

More than 2 million people were in Vegas during NMG’s show—thank goodness only 4,300 were at the event at the Sands Convention Center. Their largest show to date. The tempo was upbeat and buying was at a frenzied pace. Whirlpool unveiled their new line up of Maytag products and a new Maytag vacuum line. Also, new to NMG were outdoor products both in BBQ and furniture. Many manufacturers introduced new OLED and 4k products along with all of the toys to help with installation and integration. NMG also hinted on a headliner for their next show in Nashville, but more to come on who that will be soon. In general, every vendor and dealer I spoke with were very excited about this year and the changes in the economy. 

As usual, the BrandSource event in Orlando was no Mickey Mouse affair. Outdoor Source has grown tremendously as well as HES, their home integration and electronics division. Joe Higgins who recently retired from Whirlpool gave a very well received Keynote (second year in a row) reviewing his projections from last year which were spot on and his future projections. I was very impressed. I am writing this before attending the MEGA show but I expect it to be as equally exciting. 

On a sad note, John Colbert who has led the charge for Crosley Appliance and has been a good friend to many of us, passed away before the first day of the BrandSource show, falling ill the day before the event. He will be greatly missed by everyone he touched through his many years of dedication and service in our industry. 

Happy Retailing,
Moe
[email protected]