The doctor told me it would happen. I didn’t really understand until recently the impact my car accident from a year ago would have on my life. The doctor said, “Your life as you know it will be forever changed, and everything in your life will be up for re-evaluation.” Well, his prediction is currently unfolding in my life at breakneck speed. (No pun intended!)

This pivotal realization catapulted me headlong into the process of evaluating and editing the script of my own life, a process we can apply to our businesses as well.
Acknowledging that you have the power to edit out the things that are no longer serving you personally or in your business allows you the ability to replace them with new systems, ideas, and influential people. Are you looking for ways to take your small business to the next level? Where do you want to be one, five, and 10 years from now? What is it going to take to make that happen?

Start by re-imagining your company from the ground up. Get out the red pen and start editing. For starters, begin by finding ways to stay relevant in this rapidly changing marketplace. Use publicity to gain exposure for your company by supporting charities or publishing content on your website your customers find beneficial. Consider engaging influential bloggers that have large fan bases to significantly boost your company’s reputation.

Evaluate your current business relationships—are they beneficial for both parties? Does that vendor bring to the table the benefits they claimed when they were first wooing you for your business? Is that employee enhancing your customers’ experience or contributing to the overall helpful can-do climate of your business? If not, perhaps some thoughtful communication is in order. If that doesn’t remedy the issues, it may be time to do some housecleaning to find individuals more suitable with which to partner.

With a solid plan, you will be able to capitalize on new avenues for your business. So get busy re-envisioning the future of your company NOW! What are you waiting for?

Flip the Script!
Eliana Barriga
​[email protected]

As you are reading this many of you are getting ready for this month’s buy fairs. Las Vegas Market, Nationwide, APRO/Trib and BrandSource events are all being held this month. This is an important time of the year with some great opportunities in front of
you. Why not take advantage of them?

August starts with the Las Vegas Market, running from July 29 to August 2. With over 5
million square feet of showroom space and counting, the Las Vegas Market offers infinite shopping opportunities in one cohesive campus. Find an incredible array of new resources from thousands of leading manufacturers in both indoor and outdoor furniture, home décor, gift, tabletop, decorative accessories, lighting, home textiles, mattress/bedding, antiques/vintage, and more.

Nationwide will be at the Venetian | Palazzo & Sands Expo Convention Center Las Vegas, NV on August 5-9 for 3 days filled with intensive workshops, must-see seminars, customized vendor meetings, social networking events, and the most competitive deals in the industry. Take advantage of face-to-face interaction with the Nationwide executive team; access to the industry’s leading suppliers of electronics, appliances and furniture; opportunities to expand your web presence and social media efforts... and much more!

The APRO National RTO Convention & Trade Show at America’s Center Convention Complex, St. Louis, MO on August 21-23. Industry leaders, exhibitors, and other key players will convene in St. Louis to learn the latest tools, best practices and industry trends, see the hottest products and new technologies, and make important connections with one another in an atmosphere of camaraderie that only APRO and TRIB Group can provide.

The 2018 BrandSource Convention kicks off in Las Vegas at Caesars Palace on August 26-29. This event gives attendees a forum to educate themselves on a wide variety of topics, network with likeminded professionals, and participate in a “can’t be missed” buying fair. With over 2 days of educational sessions, 200 participating exhibitors, and 100,000 + square feet of expo space there is something for everyone!

This month will keep us all busy and we hope to see you at any one of these great buy fairs. If you see us, stop and say hi.

Happy Retailing,
Moe Lastfogel
​[email protected]