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
​moe@retailobserver.com

An interesting fact: While this U.S. federal holiday commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, Congress voted to declare independence two days earlier, on July 2 — it took two more days to finalize the Declaration. 
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Happy 4th of July! It's America's independence day, when we revel with fireworks, parades, barbecues, carnivals, fairs, picnics, concerts, baseball games, and family reunions. In addition to political speeches, ceremonies, and various other public and private events, we celebrate the history, government, and traditions of the United States.

In the retail world, the days before this holiday are some of the busiest of the year, and the time leading up to it is filled with mailings, social media and signage for the upcoming holiday bargains — sales of appliances, consumer electronics and bedding fill the air. Barbecues and coolers seem to fly out the door. Grocery stores can‘t seem to keep enough meat, chips, pies and ice on the shelves. Firework stands fill parking lots all over (where legal) and American flag merchandise is available everywhere.
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As with many holidays, sometimes the event's true meaning gets left behind in all the fun and fanfare, and I think its important to remember the day's history. To me, this holiday is about the freedoms we are afforded as Americans. Yes, I love the food, music and fireworks, but it means so much more. It's time for family and friends to get together and remember this country’s rocky beginnings and the ultimate outcome that our forefathers struggled to give us. It's about the fight for independence from tyranny and oppression from those who would take our freedom. And while all nations have their struggles and areas for improvement, we do live in a place where we can choose our own destiny and create what we want with the resources available.

So, next time you light a sparkler and enter a pie eating contest, enjoy the fun, and take time to remember the freedoms you have been given.

Happy Retailing,
Moe Lastfogel
​moe@retailobserver.com