Pacific Market Center Hosts Two Day Event For Independent Retailers

Furniture World Magazine

As part of a new initiative to support independent retailers and buyers, Pacific Market Center, together with its showrooms and local downtown associations, is hosting a VIP: Vibrant Independent Proprietor event for independent businesses. This interactive two-day event taking place on Monday, September 22nd and Tuesday, September 23rd from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. will host independent retailers and businesses in the region. These focused days of buying, designed as a forum for businesses to recharge their batteries, sharpen their competitive edge and develop new relationships, will be filled with educational sessions, giveaways and networking opportunities. “The role of independent retailers is critical for the health, creativity and growth of the retail industry and the vitality of our economy,” said Lisa Goodman, marketing director, Pacific Market Center. “We are proud to take the lead in getting behind these important businesses by launching this series of VIP events and providing a home base for the independent retailers in the region.” “Ironically, being an independent retailer is not something one does alone, you need the support from your community,” said Allison Olsen, independent retailer and owner of Inside Out, Snohomish. “Pacific Market Center fosters that community by bringing independent retailers and businesses together to share insights, make introductions and strengthen businesses that provide gathering places and a sense of community to the neighborhoods they serve.” VIP calendar of events: Monday September 22 - 9:00 a.m. Pacific Market Center showrooms open - 10:30 – 11:30 – ‘Retail Best Practices – maximize profit with retail technology’ - James Watkins, Director, Microsoft Dynamics Retail Solutions will host this educational session where attendees will learn what Microsoft Dynamics is hearing from small independent retailers when it comes to the challenges of managing a retail establishment day-to-day. Retailers nationwide are seeking solutions to questions including “How do I manage inventory turns?,” “How do I know which supplier is good for my business?,” “How do I know what my customers are really buying?” and more. This session will cover best practices of retail industry experts as well as how retail technology solutions can help retailers realize their full potential. – Second Floor Learning Forum - 2:00 – 3:00pm – ‘Realizing Immediate Results through the Stages of Implementation’ - James Watkins, director, Microsoft Dynamics Retail Solutions and Peter Johnson, technical specialist, American Retail Supply will talk about the many benefits retailers can gain from a successful retail technology adoption. Attendees will learn how a phased approach to incorporating retail technology into a business can help you realize your business vision and immediate results and how to capture important customer information to provide more selling opportunities during slow months. – Second Floor Learning Forum - 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. - Wine Reception – Participants can drop-in and enjoy complimentary Northwest wines, microbrews and snacks while networking, exchanging ideas with their peers and participating in roundtable discussions (4:00 p.m – 5:00 p.m.) – Pacific Market Center lobby Tuesday September 23 - 9:00 a.m. Pacific Market Center showrooms open - 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. ‘How to build your business using the web’ – This educational session features co-founders of Biznik, Dan McComb and Lara Eve Feltin who operate an award-winning business networking community for people who share an affinity for business. Managing the technology and editorial side, McComb began his career as an independent web developer and has experience in building Web sites for Seattle based non-profit organizations. Operating as the business and advertising sales manager, Feltin began her career freelancing in design and digital media and has experience working for an established networking group. - 2:00 – 3:00 – ‘Work your network - Top 10 tips on how to incorporate PR and networking into your business’ – Melody Biringer, CRAVE and Lori Meyers, Richmond Public Relations will host an interactive discussion on ways to create buzz for your business through relationship building that will ultimately drive traffic and profits to your store. - 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. - Wine Reception – Participants can drop-in and enjoy complimentary Northwest wines, microbrews and snacks while networking, exchanging ideas with their peers. - Complimentary coffee and international teas and pastries will be provided each morning The event will include the following giveaways: - First 150 visitors to the Microsoft Dynamics Point of Sale Solutions booth will receive a ‘Retail in the bag’ canvas goodie bag. - Daily drawing for a Microsoft Zune 4 GB MP3 player - Seven spaces to Ladies Who Launch sessions - Four seats located behind the home plate to an upcoming Mariner’s game. - ‘A Shop Keeper’s Manual’ by industry leader and retailer Mary Liz Curtin To RSVP for this complimentary event call Buyer Services at 800-433-1014 or email info@pacmarket.com by September 18th, 2008. This event is co-sponsored by Microsoft, Ladies who Launch, Craveparty and Biznik. Additional supporters include the Historic Downtown Snohomish, Bainbridge Downtown Association, Ellensburg Downtown Association, Port Angeles Downtown Association. About Pacific Market Center: Pacific Market Center is the leading permanent wholesale market on the west coast, featuring the latest in home furnishings, accessories and gift products. The industry destination for buyers in the Western United States, Canada and beyond, Pacific Market Center offers permanent showrooms on five floors featuring thousands of product lines for a wide selection of merchandise to help buyers keep up with every trend affecting their consumers. Pacific Market Center draws thousands of buyers from more than 30 channels of distribution including high-end department stores, corporate, specialty retailers, home furnishings, kitchenware, events, gourmet food, hospitality, garden/outdoor living, salons & spas, wineries, Internet, and regional chain outlets. Located in Seattle's Design District, Pacific Market Center is open to the trade only. For more information, visit www.pacificmarketcenter.com. Pacific Market Center is owned and managed by The Benaroya Companies.