Hardware Retailing The Industry's Source for Insights and Information
National buying and marketing group Reliable Distributors kicked off its 2015 Management and Marketing Conference on Thursday, March 12, in Orlando, Florida. Two new members, The Islander Group from Mililani, Hawaii, and Allcon Products/Hennix Group from Anaheim, California, were introduced to the group.
Reliable Distributors has implemented 18 new vendor programs since its 2014 conference and introduced 12 new vendors during the member meeting. Members are pre-scheduled to meet with manufacturers representing over 110 brands of product during the next two days of appointments.
On Thursday, Reliable unveiled a new and updated responsive website to the members, who are now able to view the website with a smartphone, tablet or computer screen.
“Improving the accessibility of the web site on various platforms will ensure the Members have immediate access no matter what device is available to them,” says Allan Meyer, president.
During the conference, Brad Therrien, director of retail sales for NATI North American Tool Industries in Indiana, reviewed his company’s product offering, which includes high-quality chainsaws, generators, air compressors, air tools and other OPE products.
Pat Murphy of FunMobility also spoke at the conference. He presented promotional opportunities, including the latest technology to connect with customers using mobile devices, provided an update of the program’s success with the Reliable members and outlined the growing trends toward mobile advertising. Murphy is vice president of mobile relationship management for FunMobility, which is a company in San Ramon, California, that engages customers through mobile platforms.
On Thursday evening, Presidential Awards were presented at the Opening Reception to acknowledge those members and vendors for their outstanding commitment and leadership they provide the group. Members Inland Wholesale Hardware, Inc. (represented by George Ohlendick) and Tennessee Farmers Cooperative (represented by Mark Morton) received awards, as did vendors Chapin International Inc. (represented by Steve Hickey and Dave Morse) and Seymour Midwest LLC (represented by Chuck Yeager and Lucas Whalen).
The conference runs through Saturday, March 14. Next year, Reliable Distributors will be celebrating its 30th anniversary as a national buying and marketing group. Reliable Distributors comprises more than 100 agricultural, hardware, lawn & garden and paint sundry distributors across the U.S.
