Time Out

A whirlwind winter of industry-related travel (and travel hassles resulting from that cruel polar vortex) is finally winding down. We were off and running in December with the Retail Design Collective. Close on its heels came NRF’s annual event, Retail’s Big Show. Then, for yours truly, the A.R.E. awards judging, followed by that triennial triathlon known as EuroShop. And finally, GlobalShop.

As challenging as so much travel is to one’s internal body clock and home life, in the end, it’s mostly exhilarating and rewarding on many levels. And really, how else is one to stay on top of the latest industry happenings and trends and, sometimes best of all, insider talk, unless you snap shut your desktop or mobile device and connect with far-flung clients, vendors and colleagues, face-to-face? 

Because, you know what? Most likely you’re not going to score that next big project or coveted job trolling Pinterest, LinkedIn or even, I must admit, VMSD.com. You need to press the flesh, friends. I’m talking about hoisting a cappuccino or Cosmopolitan together, sharing a show shuttle or dancing the night away in a dark Düsseldorf club with a certain renowned retail designer with Fabio-worthy hair. (I have the photos.)

And, for all the grumbling by some industry veterans over the repetitive grind and expense involved in traveling the tradeshow circuit, most will acknowledge that it often takes just one connection to make it all worthwhile. At EuroShop, several designers and vendors shared with me their successes in scoring influential new connections and promising deals. Plus, once we connect on a personal level, we’re more likely to let our defenses down, sharing the challenges and struggles in this tough industry. In a fragile economic recovery, there are still too many stories of layoffs and deals gone sour compared to big wins and bonuses. Who can’t relate and find solace in commiseration and support?

So, while there will always be those who swear they’re done with (insert show/conference here), how much do you want to bet that they’ll be back next year for more? See you on the circuit.