Slated for October 26-28, the URA show will be held at the Rio All-Suite Hotel in Las Vegas. URA has managed to attract many of the industry’s major players, with the list of exhibiting manufacturers reading like a who’s who for the medical apparel industry. The familiar faces will all be on hand, including White Swan, Barco, Prestige Medical and Landau, as will newcomer Jockey, who recently entered the market with a line of scrub pants, tops and jackets. And for those looking to extend their reach beyond the ordinary, this year’s exhibit is peppered with engravers, awards and badge suppliers too. “There are other sales opportunities out there, and we want our members to know about them,” says Imlay.
At a time when companies are more cost-conscious than ever, both Imlay and Land see the URA show as a winning proposition for all. Every booth is staffed with executive level decision makers, not sales reps, which serves as an incentive for store owners. “They listen to the retailers, they really do,” says Imlay. “It makes a difference.”
For manufacturers, of course, the draw is a roomful of retailers. “It’s the most affordable option out there,” continues Land. “What better way to promote yourself than at a convention?”
The Uniform Retailers Association (URA) was founded three years ago from the ashes of the now defunct Professional Apparel Association. The nonprofit trade group is dedicated to the concerns of the independent uniform retailer, with an emphasis on those servicing the healthcare apparel industry. Run by retailers, membership is open to independent store owners only; manufacturers are not permitted to join.
Business Education
In addition to the exhibit, the three-day URA event boasts a strong educational component, with leaders from across the business spectrum tapped to offer their expertise. “Seasoned, paid, business professionals moderate these workshops, not URA members,” notes Land. Here’s an advance look at what attendees can expect:
On Monday, October 26, the emphasis is on motivation and innovation, with a bit of humor and fun mixed in. Speaker Larry Johnson is up first, and plans to bring levity to the otherwise serious topic of employee motivation. Next, if you enjoy a good game of poker, you’ll be entranced by moderator Stephen Shapiro’s version as he uncovers ways to build innovation in both the owner and employee.
Before the exhibits open on Tuesday, Meagan Johnson will “Zap the Gap,” providing fresh, new approaches to the multi-generational workforce. In one hour, the audience will have a better understanding of what works – and what doesn’t – in today’s work setting.
New to the workshop series this year is the aptly-titled “Lunch and Learn” session on Wednesday, October 28. “The idea came after attendees requested more networking opportunities and increased take home value,” notes Imlay. Veteran retail design consultant Linda Cahan will kick off the afternoon with tips for bringing energy and excitement to the visual store experience. Next, participants will have ample time to question David Johnson of Premier Data Systems, supplier of The Uniform Solution, a software package used by retailers. Finally, the afternoon concludes with roundtable discussions and a chance for attendees to voice their concerns on a range of topics.
Right Mix of Information & Entertainment
The ability to strike a balance between business and pleasure has proven a winning formula for URA. “Our show is entertaining and informative,” notes Land. “It’s one reason for our success.” This year, there will be contests and giveaways on the exhibit floor, a fashion show, and a night out at the VooDoo Lounge, the club that helped shape the Las Vegas nightlife scene. To get to the VooDoo, you have to take an elevator ride unlike any other: a glass-walled box steadily climbs up the side of the Rio’s 51 stories while you watch the streets shrink below you. “We like to do things a bit differently each time,” says Land. “We don’t want to be stale.”
There’s also reserved tee time at the local golf course for those arriving on Sunday. “It’s very low key, just manufacturers and retailers playing golf and getting to know one another,” says Land.
This is, after all, the point of such outings, and may be the reason behind the URA show and others like it. In a niche market such as the uniform industry, business and social events work to strengthen the ties that are so integral to a company’s success. “Who would you rather do business with,”? Land asks rhetorically. “A sales rep you see three times a year or someone with whom you’ve established a relationship?”
To get complete details on the show or to register, visit www.uniformretailers.org
