21 reasons to attend IMRA's expo - International Mass Retailing Association - editorial

Discount Store News, April 15, 1991 by Tony Lisanti

21 Reasons to Attend IMRA's Expo

The annual get-together for the nation's discount department stores and specialty retailers sponsored by the International Mass Retail Association is only three weeks away. It is by far the most important event for the largest and most viable segment of the retail industry.

I have previously referred to IMRA's annual bash as "an event that no one would would dare to miss. A rally of sorts; a showing of power, strength and dominance."

I also have described the annual convention as a "time of unity; a time to exchange ideas and seek solutions to common problems."

It's all that and much more!

Next month's convention, which runs May 4 to 7 at the Loews Anatole Hotel in Dallas, has a "new look," according to IMRA, and it certainly is worth a trip. The program (see page 23) has been revamped and the format has been streamlined to make it a more productive and more efficient show, claims IMRA. The theme of this year's convention is "Partnership. We Make it Happen."

Here are a few reasons (a lucky 21 to be exact) why you should attend:

1. The best way to develop partnerships is face-to-face. Whether you're a retailer or a vendor, if you are serious about developing the partnerships that are required to implement QuickResponse and do business in the 1990s, then IMRA's convention is a must.

2. The opportunity to visit Dallas, one of the most competitive, and most interesting retail markets, nationwide.

3. No, you can't use Mother's Day as an excuse not to go this year, because the convention is the week before.

4. A sports program that includes golf, tennis and a 5K race co-sponsored by IMRA, DSN, and Gitano. This is a great way to build friendships and meet the executives you often do business with, but seldom see.

5. The best schedule of seminars in the industry.

6. A chance to visit Wal-Mart's Hypermart USA (again!), but there have been some changes.

7. The Dallas Cowboy cheerleaders--even if it isn't football season.

8. Dr. Henry Kissinger.

9. The merchandise show featuring about 300 exhibitors displaying new products and services in all categories.

10. A special banquet honoring Sam and Helen Walton.

11. A special seminar on QuickResponse, one of the most important business strategies for the 1990s.

12. Comedian Bob Newhart.

13. The exchange of ideas.

14. The opportunity to help develop new ideas and programs that will impact the future of retailing.

15. Dr. Joyce Brothers.

16. A chance to meet the most influential execs in retailing.

17. A session on customer service techniques.

18. Bobby Knight.

19. A chance for your wife to shop the Galleria or Sam's Club or hundreds of other exciting retailers.

20. The Discount Store News Show Daily.

21. An educational, enjoyable and memorable weekend.

Remember, you simply cannot measure the success of this convention by the sheer number of attendees. It must be measured by who is there, not how many are there.

See you in Dallas!

TONY LISANTI Editor