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Editorial
Retailer of the Year
Last month, Draperies & Window Coverings announced an industry first: A search to recognize an industry Retailer of the Year. As the first and longest running window coverings trade magazine, we believe that many—even most—independent window treatment retailers qualify for this recognition, but our aim is to spotlight a truly outstanding company owner, someone whose dedication to raising the level of service is evident to all those around him or her. That could be you!
Our search for the Retailer of the Year will begin with an application/nomination process. Next month, D&WC will publish an official entry form (also available online) that must be completed by a company owner wishing to be considered for this award, or by someone in the window treatments industry wanting to nominate someone else. There will be some criteria. For example, to be considered for Retailer of the Year a candidate’s company must be in business under the same ownership for a minimum of 10 consecutive years. Also, the retailer’s main product must be window coverings and the majority of sales must be in window treatments—soft or hard. (Workrooms—don’t be discouraged! There is something special just for you in the works—stayed tuned!)
We will ask, Why should this retailer be considered for this recognition? We will look for individuals who excel in many areas of the business, such as quality of service from first contact with clients to final installation; personal touch with customers and how problems are handled and resolved; sales leadership not only in dollar volume per year, but also in how this company owner inspires others to be better. We also will take into consideration whether the retailer operates strictly through in-home sales from a home-based office or has a showroom; has a one-person operation or works with a sales staff.
But there is even more. A truly outstanding Retailer of the Year shows dedication to the industry and the community that have provided so much. We will want to know in what ways candidates have given back to the industry and in what ways they have given of themselves through community service.
We are setting a July 1, 2007, deadline for the completion of application/nomination forms, and have set an October date for the announcement of the first Retailer of the Year. Our chosen recipient will be profiled in a cover story for the December 2007 issue, which also will honor our newest inductees to the D&WC Hall of Fame.
Window coverings is an amazing industry filled with amazing individuals. Draperies & Window Coverings delights in being able to recognize their efforts. Good luck to all!
Howard Shingle
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