DALLAS–Buying group Gourmet Catalog said it has seen a record number of store and vendor members sign up to attend its conference next month during the Atlanta International Gift & Home Furnishings Market. Gourmet Catalog’s conference is scheduled for Jan. 8-9 and the AmericasMart show will run Jan. 6-13.
“We view this increase as a positive nod to the industry,” said Janis Johnson, Gourmet Catalog founder and president. “It’s a tough economy, camaraderie plays an important role in keeping retailers in a positive frame of mind. Giving store and vendor members the opportunity to share ideas, expand product knowledge and learn from each other is what the conference is all about.”
Rick Segel, author of Retailing for Dummies, will be the keynote speaker for the conference, which will also have an extended vendor showcase, as well as a focus on education, networking, new product introductions and training demonstrations.