On Fighting Back
by Wanda Jankowski, Editor-in-Chief

In New York City, where the offices of LDB Interior Textiles are located, I judge how the economy is doing by looking around the neighborhood. When the empty storefronts and homeless people begin to appear where there were none, I know that times are getting tough. I began seeing those signs in 2007.

While economic experts are haggling over whether a recession is coming or is already here, everyone wonders if business will worsen or if the situation can be turned around. Read Len Mozer’s “In Search of Silver Linings” and you’ll see how the alternative window coverings category is already affected.
During New York Home Fashions Market Week, I asked showroom managers and marketers how it was going. Most said traffic wasn’t spectacular, but it was steady and they had appointments consistently throughout key days.

It’s interesting to take a poll and see what the consensus is, but the reality is you can’t wait to see what happens. You need to hone your selling skills, services, staff management and the efficiency of your retail operation now. And we’re here to help you.

As a retailer, your product selection needs to be compelling. In “What’s The Difference?,” our exclusive basic bedding and blanket Smart Report, there is a wealth of information on new products that are offering more and more benefits to consumers—from the attractive fresh looks to the intricate technologies that turn fabric into health and wellness problem solvers.

We also bring you the latest information on trends and new design concepts from four major shows that took place in January. Each article in the “Around the World in 30 Days” special section is written by someone who attended the event and saw resources firsthand. In addition to the expert eyes of our editors, we welcome this year New York-based international designer Patricia Bouley, who offers her own special perspective on the key trends from Maison et Objet.

“The Peachtree Elite” article gives you a “heads up” on what is to be found at the Atlanta International Fine Linen & Home Textiles show in March.

But product information isn’t all you need. You have to understand who you are selling to and how to create emotional connections between them and your merchandise so that they will be enticed to buy. Our guest columnist, speaker and customer service strategist Jeff Mowatt, explains how to create a customer feeding frenzy by putting into practice four key steps.

Tough times? So what. You’ve got our ammunition and your own business savvy. All that’s left is for you to shore up your determination to fight back and create success for your business in spite of adversity.