May 22, 2007
CADILLAC - I'm only three entries into this blog and I'm already inviting a “guest blogger” to help me out. John Leahy, MRA's sales rep for northern Michigan, attended the Cadillac breakfast with me and I've asked him to share his thoughts on the event. - Larry Meyer
I
can see why Larry is so energized by these breakfasts. He comes prepared
to talk about retail, the state's economy and MRA, but what makes the
morning unique are the conversations among retailers that show “the
state of the industry” in each part of the state.
It's good for us sales reps to hear what members value about MRA. Susan Martz, of Oak Heirlooms, praised MRA's services and events, from the gift card program to our education conferences each spring. She's attended four times in the past five years and always finds them extremely practical.
It was also good to hear that Brenda VanHouten, owner of Steve's Tire Service, is having a great year servicing agricultural vehicles and trucks. I hope others who are finding this economy so challenging are glad to know that at least some businesses are thriving.
Larry's remarks about the state economy—especially about the ripple effect that the auto industry's struggles are likely to have on the tourist industry up here—was of great interest to the group. Areas like Cadillac have long been the vacation destination for many in the auto industry, so their troubles are our troubles.
On a more positive note, the event got TV coverage, thanks to Laurie Wallin, of the Downtown Cadillac Association, who is also an account manager for WPBN-WTOM in Cadillac, TV7 & 4. Thanks, Laurie!
Next stop-a whirlwind tour of the Upper Peninsula in the first full week of June!
For additional information about a breakfast near you, contact Kammy Johns at 517.372.5656 or kjohns@retailers.com.
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SCHEDULE
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April
23: Ann Arbor |
June
4: Sault Ste. Marie 5: Marquette 6: Escanaba 7: St. Ignace 11: Birmingham 18: Wyandotte |
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July
16: Midland 30: Kalamazoo |
August
6: Alpena 7: Traverse City 15: Port Huron |
September
10: Grand Rapids 17: Bay City or Saginaw 20: St. Joseph 24: Brighton |
