Jul 7, 2008

PMC launches market day event for independent retailers

SEATTLE – As part of a new initiative to support independent retailers and buyers, Pacific Market Center, together with its showrooms, is launching a VIP: Vibrant Independent Proprietor event for independent businesses.

The inaugural event on Monday, July 21 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m will host independent retailers and businesses located in Seattle communities Ballard, Fremont and Snohomish. This focused day of buying, designed as a forum for businesses to recharge their batteries, sharpen their competitive edge and develop new relationships, will be filled with educational sessions, giveaways and networking opportunities.

“The role of independent retailers is critical for the health, creativity and growth of the retail industry and the vitality of our economy,” said Lisa Goodman, marketing director, Pacific Market Center. “We are proud to take the lead in getting behind these important businesses by launching this series of VIP events.”

“Ironically, being an independent retailer is not something one does alone, you need the support from your community,” said Allison Olsen, independent retailer and owner of Inside Out, Snohomish. “Pacific Market Center fosters that community by bringing independent retailers and businesses together to share insights, make introductions and strengthen businesses that provide gathering places and a sense of community to the neighborhoods they serve.”

VIP calendar of events:
9 a.m.: Pacific Market Center showrooms open
10:30 – 11:30 a.m.: Cracker Barrel Discussion – Participants can collaborate with their peers in small round table conversations on critical issues facing their business such as how to stand out from Big Box retailers, things you wish you would have thought of when you started your business and how to utilize what your cities offer – 2nd Floor Learning Forum.
2 – 3 p.m.: Panel discussion – Pacific Market Center Showroom Experts share ideas on customer retention programs, how to generate traffic, leverage vendors and embrace the ever-changing retail climate – 2nd Floor Learning Forum.
Participants: Catherine Hazen, Hazen & Associates; Ned Stack, Stack & Company; Sheri Eaton, Midwest; Paul Cardoza, The Barron Collection
3:30 – 5 p.m.: Wine Reception – Participants can drop-in and enjoy complimentary Northwest wines, microbrews and snacks while networking and exchanging ideas with their peers – Pacific Market Center lobby
The event will include the following giveaways:
oFour seats located behind the home plate to an upcoming Mariner’s game.
oA 30 day free trial of Microsoft’s POS system for all attendees.
oSeven spaces to Ladies Who Launch incubator workshops in Seattle and Snohomish.

To RSVP for this complimentary event call Buyer Services at 800-433-1014 or email info@pacmarket.com by July 17, 2008. This event is co-sponsored by Microsoft, Historic Snohomish and Ladies who Launch Seattle and Snohomish.

About Pacific Market Center
Pacific Market Center is the leading permanent wholesale market on the west coast, featuring the latest in home furnishings, accessories and gift products. The industry destination for buyers in the Western United States, Canada and beyond, Pacific Market Center offers permanent showrooms on five floors featuring thousands of product lines for a wide selection of merchandise to help buyers keep up with every trend affecting their consumers. Pacific Market Center draws thousands of buyers from more than 30 channels of distribution including high-end department stores, corporate, specialty retailers, home furnishings, kitchenware, events, gourmet food, hospitality, garden/outdoor living, salons & spas, wineries, Internet, and regional chain outlets. Located in Seattle’s Design District, Pacific Market Center is open to the trade only. For more information, visit www.pacificmarketcenter.com. Pacific Market Center is owned and managed by The Benaroya Companies.