Hardware Retailing The Industry's Source for Insights and Information
PRO Group member distributors had the opportunity to meet with more than 95 manufacturers at the recent Group Merchandising Conference in Chicago.
The conference, which took place June 19-22, began with a meeting for PRO Group members to introduce themselves and a reception where member representatives met with each other and manufacturers.
Distributors met one-on-one with manufacturers in more than 2,000 30-minute appointments to discuss new products, build new relationships and discuss current programs.
“New business possibilities were uncovered in partnership with Group vendors exhibiting at the event; new peer relationships were facilitated; and Group growth opportunities were identified during the three-day event,” says Steve Synnott, president and CEO of PRO Group.
First time attendee Jeff Clapp of General Hardware Distributors, a former Reliable distributor, appreciated the value of meeting with vendors.
“Working together, we all win,” Clapp says. “That was the overwhelming attitude from vendors and distributors alike.”
With each appointment, distributors had a chance to connect with individual manufacturers in person to work through any challenges and meet new manufacturers with innovative products they might be interested in.
Manufacturers also got the chance to make new business connections and get their products in front of a large audience. With one-on-one meetings, they were able to effectively address questions and tailor their presentations to their audience.
“The PRO Group conference was a great investment of our time and resources,” Roger Woodward, president of Alliance Distribution Partners, says. “The event was very well done and the members were engaged and ready to do business. It was a very cost-effective way to reach a number of quality prospects in a short period of time.”
PRO Group, Inc. is a multidivisional international merchandising and marketing organization with corporate headquarters in Denver.
