Retail Observer

RETAILOBSERVER.COM APRIL 2020 62 S E R V I C E D E P A R T M E N T W e have listened. Coming to Las Vegas this September, the United Appliance Servicers Association (UASA) will launch a new training program called ASTILite. UASA is actively focused on helping not only their membership, but the entire appliance service industry to achieve optimal success by providing a variety of tools that include technical and business training. Through the ASTILite program, those who are unable to attend the five-day Annual Service Training Institute (ASTI) will receive the opportunity to experience training classes and network with vendors. In January UASA hosted its hugely successful ASTI in St. Pete Beach, FL. We've heard from service companies who were unable to attend that they would welcome another option for ongoing training rather than just once a year. So we're taking the momentum and excitement from ASTI and bringing it to you on the West Coast. Instead of five days of training at ASTI, ASTILite will be held on a smaller scale, in a more intimate setting, with two full days of intense Technical and Business Training. Feedback from ASTI tells us that one of the biggest benefits of ASTI is the chance to network with vendors and others in the appliance service industry. You will find ample opportunities at ASTILite to do so, too. There will be a vendor reception, a scaled-down version of the ASTI Trade Show, and a networking event for mingling and getting to know others and visit old friends. The business training will cover various management topics such as proven strategies for improving your business in various areas. Technical classes will be offered simultaneously so attendees will have options to choose from during each session. High-demand OEM technical trainings will be offered by various manufacturers, with products to tear down including a demonstration of the current repair techniques for each brand. At both sessions attendees will have opportunities to discuss the issues and challenges we're all facing today. So even if you were able to attend ASTI, this event promises to be one that you can't afford to miss! ASTILite is designed for easy access due to its location, and will run just two days, minimizing the time you'll be away from your business. Registration is open to anyone looking to learn! Roll the dice and join us for ASTILite at Sahara Las Vegas, Wednesday and Thursday, September 2-3, 2020. Learn valuable skills from industry leaders and explore networking and training opportunities on the brands you service. Experience the sights and sounds of Sin City while you improve your business skills. ASTILite registration starts at $349 for members, $449 for non-members. You can find event details at www.UnitedServicers.com, where you can also sign up to attend. SAVE THE DATE The 2021 ASTI will be held February 7-11 in San Antonio, Texas. Grab your cowboy boots and join us for five days of networking, hands-on manufacturer training and business classes. Registration is open at www.ASTI.US, so be sure to book early and avoid missing out. UASA members receive a $100 discount when registering. Not a Member? As a member, you gain access to all that UASA has to offer, including the key benefits of ChatUSA, an on-line chat forum to discuss business matters with hundreds of colleagues around the U.S.. The online Service Library is an added key benefit that utilizes the latest internet sharing technology. All you have to do is follow the link to www.USAservicelibrary.com to register. The service library is one more reason to be a member of the non-profit UASA trade association who are devoted to building strong service businesses to compete in today's competitive environment. Another key membership benefit is the opportunity to become an Approved Member and receive a 15% discount on Sub-Zero parts and to handle parts under the manufacturer's original warranty. Call us today at 800-683-2558 for more information, or check out www.UnitedServicers.com to learn more. We look forward to seeing you in September, as well as in February at ASTI. THE MEMBERSHIP HAS SPOKEN... Sarah Brown, Executive Director of United Servicers Association. For more information, please visit www.unitedservicers.com. RO

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