Retail Observer

RETAILOBSERVER.COM JANUARY 2017 4 Eliana Barriga eliana@retailobserver.com Until next year, DEC 2016, VOLUME 27, ISSUE 12 CELEBRATING OUR 27 TH YEAR AS THE RETAIL OBSERVER PUBLISHER/MANAGING EDITOR E LIANA BARRIGA DIRECTOR OF SALES AND MARKETING MOE LASTFOGEL ART DIRECTOR TERRY PRICE CONTRIBUTING WRITERS RANDY CARNEY JERRY HONEA JOHN LAING DAVE SMITH JOHN TSCHOHL E LLY VALAS LIBBY WAGNER DAVE WORKMAN DEADLINE FOR FEBRUARY 2017 ISSUE: JANUARY 1, 2017 THE RETAIL OBSERVER 2764 N. Green Valley Pkwy, Suite 508 Henderson, NV 89014-2121 800.393.0509 • 702.208.9500 Fax 702.570.5664 production@retailobserver.com info@retailobserver.com www.retailobserver.com To receive a copy of The Retail Observer online, or to unsubscribe, please go to www.retailobserver.com/subscribe The Retail Observer website is hosted by Market Digitally Printed on Recycled Paper THE RETAIL A t the close of each year, I love looking back at the magazine covers from previous issues and strumming through the pages. Our website's magazine archive is like a virtual treasured photo album. Each image and article reminding me of the momentous moments we experienced throughout the year. Here's my take on the Year in Review! • Smart Home. Not one issue went by where we weren't featuring something on smart home technology and products. Wifi connectivity and apps that control thermostats, security systems, appliances, electronics and bedding. For the past few years, it seemed like this category would never get off the ground but with new manufacturer and home automation partnerships we are now seeing everyone finally working together to provide seamless and affordable solutions that offer real benefits to a connected home. • Getting Human—Many of our writers got real personal this year. With more emphasis on building up the human side of doing business. From making sure your own health and well being is in line, your employees are happy and your customers are getting a personalized shopping experience with you. The shift from letting go of old school operations, inflated prices and marketing tactics to building relationships with people was a breath of fresh air. • The Millennials. There were more articles focused on Millennials. Makes sense since they are getting older (19 to 35 years old), settling down and their spending continues to increase. Many are first time home owners and in the market for new appliances, electronics and furniture. This tech savvy generation are educated consumers that know exactly what product they want before entering your store, are adverse to deals and pitches and responsive to a more authentic sales approach. • Outdoor Living. This fast growing segment had huge displays at many trade shows this year. More and more of us are transforming our outdoor space into fully functional living and entertainment areas. Whether for the porch, patio or poolside, there's definitely an increased demand for products to fill outdoor spaces from weatherproof cabinetry, kitchenettes, furniture, vignettes and home entertainment systems. The trend continues to grow as new homes are being built with outdoor living in mind. 2016 YEAR IN REVIEW Elle's View As I See It

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