As usual, I am in Asia this time of year, and always disappointed to miss the trade shows in Atlanta and Las Vegas. I am staying very busy here having traveled to six different countries, but am happy to report that I have found the time for a haircut here in China. It was 39RMB, which converts to about $6.00 USD, including tip. My Dad would be so proud!

I received daily reports from the Atlanta Gift Market and am pumped up by the results! We had the biggest sales that I can remember, which is a confirmation that we are connecting with our customers, attracting prospects, and continuing to improve our service levels.

In addition to our results, I find it incredibly exciting that many other gift decor suppliers are showing positive numbers, as well. This is hugely important to all of us because retail needs a financially strong vendor base, and the suppliers need a diverse, successful independent customer base. When suppliers are successful, we will invest in product development, innovation, process improvement, and a multitude of other areas you have come to expect from us.

My associates tell me there was a very positive energy in our building at AmericasMart Atlanta that has been missing for a-while. With so much negative press about retail, we all should feel great about this. We are all making our own real news!

I am looking forward to digging in upon my return to find out what categories and items are driving our sales, and in my next message, I will tell you about them. Until then, please let me hear from you! I am receiving great comments, some in agreement and others sharing a different point of view, and each one of them is very much appreciated.

Best Regards,

Jim

jimgerson@gersoncompany.com