'Beat the Odds' grows

MRA’s second annual retail education conference, “Beat the Odds: Education to Enhance Your Business,” was deemed a big success by attendees and organizers alike.

Participation at the June 7 event at Soaring Eagle Casino and Resort in Mt. Pleasant was up 38 percent from last year, when the Association held the first conference. The event featured six seminars on topics ranging from inventory management and sales techniques to online auctions and community involvement.

Of the 69 attendees this year, at least 11 also attended last year’s conference, and several brought co-workers or employees with them this year, demonstrating their belief in the value of the conference for all types of retail workers.

One of the more popular seminars this year was on nutrition and fitness, a change of pace from the other more business-oriented seminar topics. Fitness director and nutrition author Chris Johnson had participants smiling, asking questions and even stretching in his well-received presentation.

After attending last year’s conference, Jay Atchinson of Jay’s Furniture Barn in Elwell returned and brought three employees this year.

“Coming to this conference really renews your energy, gets the creative juices flowing. I figured my employees would get ideas and motivation by attending,” said Atchinson.

“I’m glad I came. I’ve attended other seminars and conferences that were a waste of time, but this one was worth the money and the time,” said Darci Maldonado, of Pandora’s Box, a gift shop in Baldwin.

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