RETAILOBSERVER.COM JUNE 2014
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randSource has announced that it will host "BrandSource Women In
Business" events at its bi-annual conventions to give women in the
appliance, electronics and home furnishings industries an ongoing
platform to network, socialize, discuss important issues and share experiences
with each other. The gatherings will be held on a twice-yearly basis, in March
and August, at BrandSource's bi-annual conventions.
"We had our first event at the Spring Summit in Orlando last month, and
there were over 40 attendees—a remarkable turnout," said Judy Lawrence,
industry expert spearheading the group. "We're very excited about meeting on
a regular basis with other women to brainstorm new ideas, discuss everyday
business issues and discover new opportunities for growth. We plan to have
guest speakers and roundtable discussions, as well."
Lawrence said that the idea for the new group was sparked by the Consumer
Electronics Industry association's annual "Women in CE" events at CES. She
realized there was a need for a similar group within the BrandSource
community.
"I've had many opportunities to communicate with women in the appliance
industry over the years," she said. "After reflecting some of those conversations,
I realized we really need to establish our own group—to connect, brainstorm,
hear speakers, set up blogs, and take advantage of the many resources that
are available to us—especially women who are running their own businesses."
The "BrandSource Women In Business" group is for anyone involved in
appliance, electronics and home furnishings industries, including women in
finance, marketing, advertising, customer service and sales. Women in other
industries will be welcome to present or attend, as appropriate.
"Of all of the Fortune 500 companies, only 21 are led by women, yet women
own 40 percent of businesses in the U.S.," said Lawrence. "And in our industry,
women make the majority of purchase decisions for the household. There's not
a doubt in my mind that if we really tune in to the fact that the majority of our
customers are women, and if we hire capable women to deal with those
customers, our businesses will grow."
The next "BrandSource Women In Business" event will be held at Caesar's
Palace during the 2014 Convention & Expo in August. For more information,
contact Judy Lawrence at judy-lawrence@sbcglobal.net.
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B U Y I N G G R O U P N E W S
BRANDSOURCE
SPEARHEADS WOMEN
IN BUSINESS
NETWORKING
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