Mindy Gehris

What retailers, in your opinion, are in need of a fixture makeover?

I see many outlet store concepts that are in need of a fixture program in their windows, entry areas and back areas of the stores to draw more customers into the space.

What would you do if you weren’t selling fixtures?

Be a defense lawyer. I love lobbying for underdogs.

What is your favorite trend in store fixture manufacturing right now?

Value engineering to reduce retailers’ costs.

Because of rising gas prices, has Fleetwood changed any of its purchasing habits?

We’ve always supported local suppliers. Many of our reclaimed timbers come from local Mennonites who supply barn wood and heavy beams. Shipping costs are definitely shaping decisions on certain material selections, particularly imported ones.

What are you personally doing to contribute to the green movement?

I’ve been filtering drinking water at home and drinking it out of these stainless-steel bottles instead of plastic. I just ordered some for the office.

Finish this sentence: I wish I could…

bake a cake – or anything, for that matter.

What three words describe you best?

Impatient. Impatient. Impatient.

How do you get back into work mode on a Monday morning?

Actually, I like the chaos; it snaps me back into retail reality. But only after 10 a.m. First, I need some herbal tea and a half-hour of silence.

Name one thing that you do in Leesport, Pa., that you can’t do anywhere else.

Drive 20 minutes in any direction and see beautiful countryside.

What’s your favorite city to visit?

San Francisco.

Name three famous people you’d like to meet.

Oprah, Martha Stewart and Elton John.

What was the first album you ever purchased?

Queen’s “We are the Champions.”

What’s your motto?

“Let’s nail it.” Meaning, let’s get it done and get it done right. I know, so corny. x

 A Few of My Favorite Things

A daily planner. “We’re all running on Outlook these days, but I still need something with pen and paper for personal security.”

Google maps. “I like to know how to get where I’m heading and be on time.”

Shopping. “I love to shop and look at just the merchandise for a change, not the fixtures.”