Retail Observer

RETAILOBSERVER.COM FEBRUARY 2014 74 D A V E B I L A S J E F F K N O C K R O B E R T W E I S N E R L E S K I R K N ationwide Marketing Group announced an organizational shift which became effective January 1, 2014. Robert Weisner and Les Kirk will oversee the operations and finances of Nationwide as co-CEOs. "Les has played a pivotal role in the success of our company during his 25+ years here. I am very excited to move forward in this partnership with him," said Weisner. Dave Bilas, who has been with the group for three years, will complete his transition to President and COO of Nationwide. "I think Dave's leadership qualities, fundamental understanding of the business and his intimate relationships with retailers across the country will be key in his new role here at Nationwide. His experience in both the CE and major appliance categories enables Dave to remain a huge resource for our independent retailers," said Les Kirk. Fulfilling Dave's previous role of Executive Vice President will be Jeff Knock, who has been with the group just short of three years as the Senior VP of Appliances. Dave Bilas says, "Jeff has developed foundational relationships with our vendor partners and has a strong background in the merchandising business, as well as the implementation of marketing strategies for our retailers. From the integration of Draw-Escape-Sell and Nationwide's tablet initiative to being instrumental in the acquisition of several of our larger members, we are excited that Jeff will be overseeing the group's merchandising and marketing initiatives." "Nationwide consistently strives to be a progressive company and fulfill the needs of our 3500+ member retailers and vendor partners by establishing a team of innovators that under-stand the changing dynamics and demands in our industry,"said Robert Weisner. "As we continue to plan for the future, we are ready to hit the ground running for an incredible and successful 2014! " Nationwide Marketing Group, headquartered in Winston-Salem, NC, is North America's largest buying and marketing organization for independent major appliance, consumer electronics, and home furnishings dealers. Larger than all competing groups combined, NMG has over 3,500 members with more than 10,000 store fronts and a combined $14 billion in annual sales. Nationwide Marketing Group, the parent organization of RentDirect Nationwide and Specialty Electronics Nationwide, offers a unique portfolio of services designed to support its members and strengthen their position in the marketplace. Visit us online at www.nationwidegroup.org. NATIONWIDE MARKETING GROUP ANNOUNCES ORGANIZATIONAL SHIFT RO B U Y I N G G R O U P N E W S

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