Fall 2018 Hardlines Strategies

advertising tricks, as well as how social media can impact your business. Other favorites from Markets in the past will also return, like THE 24 and Assortment Central. “Our deals allow our customers to really take advantage of the Buying Market, and we’re also hoping to put on a great show for everyone with a lot of fun for the whole family,” says Connor. Be the MVP The MVP Event will return this fall, kicking off the Buying Market on Thursday, September 20, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. The Market floor will be open and will have amazing deals, food and live entertainment. Showstopper spiffs will be available only from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., so plan to arrive early to take advantage of the special pricing on our Showstoppers, which will include 16 individual items you won’t want to miss. Purchase any eight Showstoppers items to earn an additional $50 cash spiff, as long as the minimum quantities are met. (Orders must be placed at the Blish-Mize spiff booth, and only one order/spiff per retail location will be accepted. Showstoppers orders must be placed during the MVP Showstoppers event.) “We see the MVP event as a way to thank our customers for making the Market such an important event in their year and in their business’s schedule,” says Jason Drury, director of marketing with Blish-Mize. “The MVP event is a great opener to all of the Blish-Mize Buying Market events and deals!” he says. App in Hand Don’t forget to download one item that can make your Market experience a breeze. The Blish-Mize Markets app is set up to streamline your entire visit and make the most of your time on the floor and in Overland Park.

Speaker Schedule Learning opportunities abound at the Buying Market. Don’t miss these speakers.

Friday, Sept. 21 10 a.m. Basic Retail Accounting Practices

Scott Wright, executive director of the Retail Leadership Institute for the North American Retail Hardware Association, will offer a lesson and recap on basic accounting practices every retailer should have in their skillset.

2 p.m. The Value of Google Advertising

Small business marketing expert Jeff Randolph speaks about how digital advertising can help your business make an impact online. Saturday, Sept. 22 10 a.m. Social Media Tips and Tricks For Your Business Jody Maude, advertising and communications director for Distribution America, will discuss the benefits and challenges of social media for independent retailers.

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