COSTA MESA, CA (BRAIN)—The National Bicycle Dealers Association (NBDA) will offer its one-day educational seminars in six different markets this year, up from five last year, stretching from late October into late January of next year.
“It’s our way of giving back to the industry and make education more convenient and affordable for members,” said Fred Clements, the NBDA’s executive director.
The seminars kick off in Chicago Oct. 24, and continue in Minneapolis Oct. 26, Washington, D.C. Nov. 2, Seattle Nov. 16, Atlanta Jan. 22 and end in Dallas Jan. 25. The only repeat city from last year is Chicago.
Earlier this year, the Bicycle Products Suppliers Association and the NBDA announced plans to discontinue running a joint conference. Each opted to instead hold separate meetings that focus on the interest of their memberships. This allowed the NBDA to expand into January dates for its seminars.
“We moved our final two locations into early 2008 as dealers also commented this was a good time to participate, and allows us to avoid conflicts with the holiday season,” said Michael Baker, NBDA’s marketing and communications director.
While speakers and content haven’t been completely set yet, Clements said the program should be similar to last year’s in all cities except Chicago. The Bike Gallery’s Jay Graves and Brett Fleming will cover advocacy and service department issues, respectively. Dan Mann of The Mann Group will discuss sales floor management and Clements will offer an overview of the most recent industry statistics. Clements said he will bring one or two other speakers in.
“Last year we had over 260 attendees from 150 companies, primarily retail stores,” Baker said. The NBDA aims to attract between 50 and 100 retailers in every market.
Retailers are encouraged to register online at www.nbda.com/goto/regionalseminars. —Lynette Carpiet
