By Alan Wolf
If inventory is the lifeblood of independent dealers, then kicking the tires of new products on the Expo floor can be considered the main event at a BrandSource Convention.
But this year’s Expo had plenty of competition, as a chock-a-block schedule of events, both social and serious, kept attendees on their toes throughout the four-day gathering in Dallas.
When they weren’t participating in vendor trainings or educational sessions, dealers clinked glasses at an AVB 50th Anniversary Celebration replete with a grand fireworks display, and welcomed newly-minted members at a First-Time Attendee Meet & Greet reception. And, for the younger crowd, a Young Professionals networking event gave next-generation business owners and suppliers a chance to forge new ties as they face the future together.
Other agenda highlights included the Women In Business luncheon, where the industry’s better half commiserated over the challenges and rewards of being female in the retail appliance trade, and a Heavy Hitters Dinner & Awards Ceremony, where members’ best salespeople, who received specialized training at the show, were applauded for their interpersonal skills.
And what BrandSource Convention would be complete without the Stampede? This year’s show-special sales event outdid itself with a slew of first-time dealer giveaways and a more tightly culled offering – all while generating an enthusiastic buzz befitting a 50th anniversary show.
YSN is published by BrandSource parent company AVB Inc.
