Retail Observer

RETAILOBSERVER.COM SEPTEMBER 2017 56 B U Y I N G G R O U P N E W S B randSource has always enjoyed a reputation for devising new and interesting ways of bringing its members together. This past May 16-19 in Dallas, TX, it did just that by engineering a new method of intermingling its most promising younger members—the Young Professionals—with its most successful veteran dealers—the Power Dealers. By scheduling overlapping meetings that mixed its Power Dealers with its Young Professionals group, it pulled off a networking coup as the next generation of owners met with some of the buying group's most seasoned pros. Always willing to experiment with different venues that benefit its growing family of independent dealers, BrandSource's innovative system of introducing members is sure to pay big dividends for both groups in the future. The Young Professionals' group, which was created in 2014, is a mixture of young, highly-motivated independent dealers, sales representatives, buyers, sales managers, and local category managers looking to share new ideas and grow their businesses. Blessed with an entrepreneurial spirit, they are focused on the kind of innovation that will change the retail industry while fostering the success of BrandSource's independent stores. John Hinton, founder of John's Appliance and Bedding of Daytona Beach, and his daughter Kelsey Hinton, were on hand for the series of meetings. John's Appliance, which first opened its doors in 1973, boasts six locations in northeast Florida, and John is a welcomed member of the Power Dealers. In a nod to her father's tutelage as well as her own entrepreneurial instincts, Kelsey is the store's communication director and a member of the Young Professionals since last July. Although the Young Professionals and Power Dealers met on separate days, a discussion panel, comprised of members from both groups, provided a rare opportunity for dealers to ask each other questions and fraternize. Kelsey Hinton describes the meeting of both groups as a "mutually beneficial occasion with great networking opportunities." For the Young Professionals group, the occasion was of particular value. "Since every Young Professional wants to become a Power Dealer, talking to members of the Power Dealers is really helpful, especially when it comes to challenges like asking for a raise or succession plans," she says. She is also struck by the overall willingness by more established members to help less experienced dealers. The bringing together of both groups is indicative of BrandSource's ability to plan for the long term. By introducing up-and-coming dealers to more experienced members who have demonstrated the ability to survive in the tumultuous world of independent retail, the group is preparing its next generation of members. However, the Young Professionals are not to be taken lightly. This enterprising group has gained valuable perspective through its high level of comfort with technology. "They are more innovative, digitally savvy, and much more willing to cast off entrenched ideas," says Kelsey Hinton. The meetings also allowed the attendees to make suggestions for the future. Kelsey Hinton suggested an online directory or chat group to supplement future meetings so dealers can stay in touch. BrandSource seeks to have the older generation pass on their collective wisdom to future generations. The meetings at Young Professional University (YPU) in Dallas between the Young Professionals and the Power Dealers were one way in which BrandSource prepares its next crop of dealers for the independent appliance business. With this level of cooperation and member's genuine desire to see fellow members succeed, BrandSource has created an environment of encouragement to provide its new owners with a veritable roadmap to success. It's a formula that is sure to produce Power Dealers for years to come. RO THE YOUNG PROFESSIONALS AND THE POWER DEALERS: A winning combination

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