Now is also the time to start thinking ahead and budgeting for the upcoming year. I hope trade shows are factored into your plans.

Gasoline is up to $3.25 in my neighborhood- put a trade show trip into the context of fuel for running your business and you'll see it for the bargain and investment it is!

No matter how great your sales reps are, there is something about being at a show that helps a retailer synthesize all of the incoming trends. You may not buy from 70% of the companies who highlight incoming trends- but you'll get what is happening and how it happens.

Take some classes-I often see experienced retailers who themselves could teach seminars at CHA in the audience. Why? Because they want to keep their skills sharp and there is always something new to learn. A great merchandising or class idea can bring just much, if not more revenue in as selling a collection of items.

Connect with other retailers. It can be isolating being the sole independent with lots of Chain competitors- you need to talk to people who understand the challenges you face- find them en masse at a trade show.

A trade show trip is something to look forward to! Move out some old inventory to generate some cash flow. Plan a couple of classes or crops to pay for your airline ticket. Find someone to bunk with. Even if you are accustomed to coming to a show with staff- having one person at a show is better than no people at a show. See you there-- Beth