Ready for '09? Here it comes
By Ray Allegrezza, Editor in chief -- Furniture Today, January 4, 2009
Welcome to 2009!
While most of us were thrilled to put 2008 behind us, the reality is that many of the same challenges that frustrated us last year have managed to come along for the ride as we head into 2009.
But the good news is that we are better prepared for an uphill run this year.
Many of us, myself included, wanted to believe that things would improve in 2008. But, as the year progressed and the economic climate darkened, we realized we we'd be in the soup for quite a while.
As a result, our industry has made some decisions, none of them easy but all of them necessary, to become as lean and mean as possible.
And for those who come out of the box this year faster, more efficient and better positioned to serve the customer, 2009 will be a year of progress.
I don't just think that, I know it. Last week, I had conversations with three retailers — in three parts of the country — and each one said that their business was off the charts.
In fact, while I was on the phone with Danny Malchman, whose wife Elaine owns Amazing Furniture in Taftville, Conn., an amazing thing happened. Danny had to excuse himself at least six times in the course of 10 minutes to greet shoppers as they walked into the store.
Doug Morris of Morris Interiors in Anchorage, Alaska, also is selling up a storm and has been for most of November and December.
And there are others.
So, here is my belated holiday gift to you. Furniture/Today is going to write about these and other retailers we've spoken with who are bucking the trend.
We are also planning another ongoing series called The Big Idea. We hope to share ideas from across the industry to help you grow your business.
I think 2009 has the potential to be a good year. But we each have to work to make it happen. I'm ready to do my part.
I believe you are, too. Stay in touch and tell me what's working for you!
I wish each of you a happy, healthy and prosperous 2009!
-
F/T Bedding Conference Provides Advertising Tips
Jul 19, 2011 -
First Sandow Media Logistics Conference draws 135
Jun 16, 2011 -
Best Ads Include Tried-And-True Promotions
Jun 1, 2011 -
Good news is on the way
Aug 24, 2009
Specialty retailer LoveSac introduces new store design
Kincaid Furniture honors Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter for Habitat work
Belfort Furniture, Lawrance Furniture are NHFA Retailers of Year
Omnia Furniture ends relationship with Kathy Ireland Worldwide
Singapore furniture show expecting increased turnout
Featured Company
-
Wright Labels
Bill and Tom Wright founded Wright of Thomasville in 1961 on the idea that printing was a creative medium and the belief that "a promise made is a promise kept." The Wright brothers focused their attention on providing exceptional printing for the... more
VIEW ALL GALLERIES
