At the end of October, uniform retailers from across the country gathered in Las Vegas, Nevada to attend the annual Uniform Retailers Association Trade Show. The URA show was created for retailers by retailers, and provides retailers the opportunity to meet manufacturers, see new products, take advantage of educational opportunities, network with other retailers, and learn about tools and services that can help them grow their businesses.

The 2011 URA trade show was a tremendous success for exhibitors and attendees. According to Dixie Russell, Association/Trade Show Manager, the show saw an increase in attendance. "In an economy where most trade shows are experiencing a downturn in attendance, the 2011 URA Trade Show maintained and even slightly grew from its 2010 record numbers," says Dixie. Additionally, the URA welcomed 14 new exhibitors to the trade show floor, and added educational sessions which were extremely well-received.

Retailers enjoyed the ability to see, touch, and experience medical apparel, footwear, tools, and accessories. They learned about new fabric technologies, like antimicrobial finishes, to introduce to their customers. They tested the sound quality of stethoscopes, and inspected the craftsmanship of professional leather footwear. Well-established brands such as Landau and Dansko were represented, and start-ups with innovative products made their debut. Attendees enjoyed discounted pricing and special trade show-only deals from manufacturers as well as service providers like UniformMarket.

Independent retailers saw their favorite catalogs come to life in a high-energy fashion show, and socialized during catered lunches and after-hours wine-and-cheese receptions. Educational seminars engaged and motivated crowds of retailers. Owners of both large and small stores learned strategies for managing employees, dealing with the challenges of a down economy, and planning for the future.

Nearly 70% of attendees reported an excellent experience at the URA show. Shared comments included:

• "The URA show has extreme value to any uniform retailer. It keeps you inspired, motivated, growing, and gives you real-life help to grow your business. Keeps the hope alive to grow my dream."
• "We learned so much from the vendors and speakers. Wish we had taken the time to come sooner!"
• "You can't miss this trade show! Show specials alone are worth your trip. The time to communicate with other URA retailers is priceless."

The Uniform Retailers Association is already busy gearing up for the next annual trade show. Mark your calender for the 2012 show, which will take place October 15-17 in Miami. The 2012 show will feature a golf outing, ample networking opportunities, and two days of dedicated, trade show-only hours. Visit www.uniformretailers.org to join the URA and to learn more.

The Uniform Retailers Association will hold its annual trade show in Las Vegas on October 24-26. Attendees will Experience the Ultimate Expression of Efficiency: The Smart Way when they register and attend this year's event. In celebration of this 5th anniversary event, one lucky retailer in attendance on October 26 will win a Smart Car (2-year lease) or $5,000! That's right – URA is GIVING AWAY a Smart Car ForTwo to one lucky retailer.

URA's trade show is the industry's premier event bringing together hundreds of independent retail store owners and operators together with over 50 manufacturers and suppliers. No where else can retailers see, touch, compare and experience all of these choices with efficiency ~ the Smart way! All taking place at the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas. Reservations are now being accepted at (888) 746-6955. Make sure you mention that you are attending the Uniform Retailers Association's event in order to receive the special $89 rate.

In addition to a comfortable trade show atmosphere, the event offers exceptional learning opportunities. Back by popular demand, Bob Negen will deliver the lunch and learn session on Wednesday. The Foot Traffic Formula – How to Keep the Doors Swingin' and the Registers Ringin' is a favorite session of Bob's to teach. "It's appropriate for today's brick and mortar store and it's really that simple," notes Bob. Hoping that people come in is never going to cut it. If you want to build an explosion of foot traffic in your store, you need to follow a step-by-step plan and Bob will share that plan at the URA session on October 26. Retailers won't want to miss this WhizBang! Training workshop.

Two other retail industry leaders will present keynote sessions during the event. Scott Hunter has helped hundreds of businesses, developed over one thousand speeches and worked with over 250,000 individuals as a business coach and speaker. Scott will address attendees on Monday, October 24, with his session titled Creating an Outrageously Successful Store. In this session, participants will learn the fine art of creating and maintaining rich, meaningful, quality relationships, not only within their stores but also with everyone else in their lives.

On Tuesday, October 25, Barbara Wold will address The "New" Customer and how to revive and revise your business, what is happening in the consumers' minds and how to keep the new customer buying. Barbara is one of the most popular speakers in the retail industry.

New this year, URA has added two concurrent sessions on Tuesday afternoon – for the retailer looking to possibly sell their store, one session is designed to walk you through how to perform a basic business valuation model and prepare exit strategies. The other session is designed with the new retailer in mind – teaching merchandising, marketing and proven sales methods.

And where would the show be without the tremendous support of our sponsors! This year's event is sponsored in part by Landau Uniforms, White Swan Brands/Jockey Scrubs, Cherokee Uniforms, Barco Uniforms, Alegria Shoes, Dansko, Dress A Med Uniforms, Healing Hand's Scrubs, Nursez Choice, Prestige Medical, Radiance Uniforms, Sanita Clogs, ScrubWorks, MDF Instruments and Uniform Market News.

Least we not forget one of the most important segments of the annual event – the Retailer Party. It will be held on Tuesday evening in the VooDoo Lounge at the Rio. This fabulous evening will feature hors d'oeuvres, drinks, dancing and music while networking with friends and peers – all hosted by White Swan Brands & Jockey Scrubs!

Are you smart enough to attend? If you're an independent uniform retailer, then attending this trade show is a can't miss event! Not only will you have a great time, but you will walk away inspired and re-energized. Make the Smart choice and register today at www.UniformRetailers.org. We're confident that you'll Experience the Ultimate Expression of Efficiency: The Smart Way!

Are you curious about what store hours work for others? Are you wondering what others recommend as make-up removers on white scrubs?

These are some of the topics being discussed on the URA Web Forum. Using URA social media options is a great way for members to network with other independent uniform retailers.

Log in or create an account on the forum and try it today! Click here to view.

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See why TRU is the best solution for your credit/debit card processing, check guarantee and conversion, and custom gift cards.

Let TRU negotiate for you. There's no risk in asking!! Contact URA's dedicated TRU consultant today:

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Recently introduced arcTechnology™ to be shown in Grey’s Anatomy™ Professional Wear by Barco (arcLux™) and NRG by Barco™ (arcFlex™)

Collections reflect the company’s new branding, “Love What You Wear™.”

What:  Barco Uniforms® today announced that it will feature its Spring 2011 medical apparel lines at the 4^th Annual URA Trade Show November 1 through 3. The collections exemplify Barco Uniforms’ brand promise to create comfortable, practical apparel that inspires medical professionals to “Love What You Wear™.” The event provides a unique opportunity for retailers to experience the collections first-hand and learn more about the company’s ground-breaking arcTechnology™, or Advanced Research Clothing™ Technology, the science behind Barco Uniforms. Collections using arcTechnology™ include:

• Grey’s Anatomy™ Professional Wear by Barco with arcLux™, a luxurious, ultra-soft fabric.
• NRG by Barco™ with arcFlex™, an exclusive fabric that stretches and moves with a person, leaving them looking and feeling their best through even the longest shift.

Attendees will also have the opportunity to enjoy the Barco Uniforms’ sponsored speaker Bob Negen who will present “Explode Your Sales: Marketing Ideas That Are So Simple And Effective, They Will Blow Your Mind!” Wednesday November 3^rd during the Lunch ‘n’ Learn session.

URA marks the event-debut of Barco Uniforms’ new brand that reflects the love, innovation, and leadership that will carry it through the next generation of the apparel industry.

Where:  Barco Uniforms® can be found at booths 404 -  408 at the Buena Vista Palace Resort & Spa in Orlando, Florida.

Who:  Barco Uniforms®, a recognized leader in the uniform industry, fuses innovative fabric technology and fashion-forward design to create uniforms that inspire individuals and enhance the work environment.  From its versatile, widely appealing Medical Collections and distinctive Spa Collection, to its corporate Identity solutions, Barco Uniforms is committed to making professional attire that people love to wear.  For more information, visit http://www.barcouniforms.com.

Podcasts Feature 2010 Speakers

The 2010 URA Trade Show speakers have provided short presentations for your listening pleasure. Listen to each session to learn more from the experts. 

Click here to listen to Karen Barry talk about hiring and interviewing processes, Tom Shay discussing cash flow management secrets and Bob Negen reviewing excellent ideas on "cause" marketing. These session are perfect for retailers - new and seasoned!

The 2010 URA Trade Show by ALL accounts will be a huge success. If you haven't made the
decision to be there, you might want to reconsider!

• This year, the trade show floor has been expanded and sold out 4 times! Attendees
  will be treated to product displays from nearly 60 companies displaying in 8,300 square
  foot of space. Last year, the trade show floor was supported by 51 companies and
  encompassed only 6,700 square feet of display space.
• Expanded educational workshops and sessions designed just for the independent
  retailer. Each of the speakers has recorded podcasts for your learning enjoyment.
  Click here to listen to Karen Barry talk about hiring and interviewing processes, Tom
  Shay discussing cash flow management secrets and Bob Negen reviewing excellent
  ideas on "cause" marketing. All sessions are perfect for retailers - new and seasoned!
• The 2009 trade show was supported by 7 company sponsors. This year, there are 14
  company sponsors – that equals twice as many networking opportunities! Sponsors
  (in alphabetic order) are Barco Uniforms, Cape Clogs, Cherokee, Dansko, Dickies, G-
  Scrub, Healing Hands, Landau, Made to Measure, New Balance, Nurse Mates, Prestige,
  Radiance Uniforms, ScrubWorks and White Swan.

The 2010 Annual URA Trade Show is truly an event you won't want to miss. Click here to register
today!

URA HOTEL SOLD OUT
Wonderful Overflow Hotel in Walking Distance
The Buena Vista Palace Hotel has officially sold out of rooms during the URA Trade Show.
Management is pleased to announce that a block of rooms have been secured at the Regal Sun
Hotel. A walkway connects the two facilities for ease in getting to and from the headquarters
hotel. Contact the Regal Sun today at (800) 624-4109 and request the special rate set aside
under the code of UNRA1110.