[Source – hbsdealer.com]
Focus on Education and Future-Proofing Retail
The True Value 2024 Fall Reunion, held in Orlando, brought together retailers from the U.S. and globally for a multi-day event dedicated to product discovery, education, and networking. The event underscored True Value’s commitment to supporting independent retailers and vendor partners. True Value CEO Chris Kempa emphasized that the Reunion aimed to deliver in areas that attendees prioritized, such as connecting with industry peers and learning new business strategies.
Kempa highlighted, “This fall show was all about investing in the areas our attendees have told us they want from True Value, whether it’s connecting with us and each other or education about running a retail business and new, industry-leading products.”
The event began with the Retail Best Practices Conference, headlined by entrepreneur Troy Hazard. Hazard’s keynote encouraged retailers to “future-proof” their businesses by developing leadership skills. He stressed the importance of cultivating a culture of confidence and focusing on employee engagement rather than solely on outcomes. Following the keynote, attendees participated in breakout sessions on topics like marketing, store traffic, loss prevention, and hiring practices.
Educational Opportunities and Technological Insights
True Value University provided numerous educational sessions throughout the event, with topics ranging from e-commerce to cybersecurity. Chris Fisher, Vice President of ECI’s Software Solutions LBM division, discussed the significance of leveraging e-commerce for more than just selling products. He explained how it can boost customer loyalty and service levels, noting, “If we’re not showing up online, we’re essentially invisible to a large part of our audience.”
The Garden Center Retailer Conference also took place, offering insights into trends within the garden center industry. Vendors and experts shared best practices for operating garden centers, adding another layer of knowledge for attendees.
Product Discovery and Networking
On the show floor, retailers explored Assortment City’s product displays, shopped for deals in Discount City, and discovered innovations in the New Product Area. Lisa and Gary Kruse, owners of Kruse True Value Hardware, shared their excitement about interacting directly with vendors and seeing product demonstrations. “We loved seeing new items and the demos on the floor,” Lisa Kruse said.
Rick Roos, director of sales for BinClaw, expressed enthusiasm about showcasing his product to retailers in the New Product Area, stating, “This is our first independent retailer show, and it’s been great to talk to retailers about the product.”
The event also featured a Welcome Reception at Universal Studios, allowing attendees to relax and bond outside of the business setting. Mark Williamson, owner of True Value of Ocean Pines, emphasized the value of networking at the 2024 Fall Reunion, saying, “I like to talk with other retailers and find out what’s going on in their operations, what is working, and what isn’t.”
Overall, the True Value 2024 Fall Reunion provided attendees with valuable insights, product innovations, and opportunities for networking, setting the stage for future growth and success in the retail industry.
