Attracting customers and staying competitive

I would like to invite all retailers and entrepreneurs who want to become retailers to attend the 3rd Philippine Retailers Association (PRA) Cebu Regional Retail Conference to be held at the Parklane Hotel this coming July 1. The theme for this event is “Retail Strategies for 2009 and Beyond – Ways to Attract Customers and Stay Competitive.”

We have a exciting lineup of speakers headlined by Ms. Pinky Yee, Marketing Director of Goldilocks, who will be talking about how Goldilocks started and what steps it took to became a Filipino icon. Cebu City Councilor, Nestor Archival will be discussing how retailing can help out the environment. Our very supportive Department of Trade and Industry Region 7 Director Aster Caberte will also brief retailers on updates and initiatives from the DTI.

There will also be an informative panel discussion on retail outlooks for the year headlined by SM City Cebu’s Marissa Fernan and Ayala Center Cebu’s Clavel Tongco, as well Ms. Pinky Yee and PRA local Chapter Chair Jay Aldeguer and PRA Incoming National President , Mr. Bernie Liu.

Bernie Liu, Cebu’s retail legend, has just been elected the new President of the Philippine Retailers Association, a big source of pride for Cebu and a big boost of inspiration to many local retailers. Bernie is showing us that all things are possible, having started a local brand and turning it into a nationwide retail conglomerate. This is the first time a Cebuano has been elected the President of the Philippine Retailers Association. Congratulations Bernie.

We will also have an informative lineup of speakers in the afternoon led by Ms. Marge Martinez who will be discussing the latest tips and trends for retailing. Ms. Martinez is the Associate Director for Retail Services of the Nielsen Company. Ms. Karen Tan of HP PSG Manager for RPOS will discuss how to increase cost efficiency especially in this uncertain retail environment. Mr. Steven Cua, President of Philippine Amalgamated Supermarkets Association, will talk about Green Retailing and Mr. Jos Ortega, CEO of JWT will discuss stylish design techniques for retail concepts. Our very own Chef Raki Urbina of Café Laguna fame will also discuss how innovation and creativity are the key to success in difficult times.

We will also have an induction of new members. If you are a retailer that is not yet a member and wish to do so, please contact me through my email so I can forward you an application form. If you are an aspiring retailer or entrepreneur, I would like to invite you to attend this conference as it will give you an overview of retailing as well as a chance to meet and learn from successful retailers.

There will also be a citation for the Outstanding Filipino Retailer (OFR) Cebu awardees as well as an overview presentation conduced by OFR Cebu Search Chairman Steve Benitez.

For those of you that want more information, please contact the PRA Cebu Secretariat at 3462926 local 108 or 09228845243, please look for Charry. You can also email [email protected].

I want to share with you what the world’s most successful retailer , Sam Walton , said when he was asked on the secret of successful retailing. He answered, “Give your customers what they want.” And he further added, “they want everything.” The concept of retailing is simple, mastering it is complex. Attending and participating in this conference is an investment toward unveiling that complexity.

Let’s follow the examples of these ordinary individuals as they strive to make a difference. Each week, lets all get together and share knowledge, stories, experiences, information, all for the sole purpose of getting One Step Up.

For comments, suggestions or stories that you want to share, email me at [email protected], or visit www.stirspecialist.blogspot.com