One thing we can all use more of is good news. And our industry has a
lot to offer in this regard. Sure, it's been tough out there and a lot
of our friends, colleagues and yes, some competitors, have gone away
during this epic recession. But at the same time, there are a lot of
success stories to share and celebrate. I'm asking you to share yours.
At several meetings and conventions I've been to, there have been plenty
of feel-good and business success stories out there — a woman who
bought the business from her Dad just before the economy tanked somehow
finds creative solutions to stay alive and to thrive; a retailer pitches
in to rebuild the life and home of a less fortunate neighbor who lost
his house to a fire; or it could be the story of a company that
repositioned itself out of sheer necessity only to find that's exactly
where they should have been all along; or, a war hero who returns home
to an unexpected red-carpet parade that the whole town comes out for.
There are lots of such stories out there and they are a reflection of
what makes this industry so great in the first place — caring people.
Well, guess what? We want to hear those stories. Your friends and
colleagues want to hear about them too. So why not pick up the phone and
give us a call? Help us spread the good word. I learned a long time ago
that a man who doesn't appreciate the gifts before him can never be
truly happy. Let's share our gifts and our appreciation.
Part of what I love so much about this industry is that many of the
retailers out there are part of the very fabric of their communities.
They get involved in Little League sponsorships, in helping out the less
fortunate, in promoting local activities whether at their church or
schools — in other words, they live and breathe in the communities they
serve. And those ties run deep.
Now I know a lot of you don't like to brag, you prefer to do things
behind the scenes. You may feel that you don't do it as some publicity
stunt but rather because you really care. Still, I'm hoping I can
convince you to share those stories and help us celebrate the remarkable
people that make up the North American flooring industry.
Speaking of celebrating, we're celebrating our own 60th anniversary next
year so your stories would be a most welcome addition to what will be a
special year and a special Anniversary issue for Floor Covering Weekly —
60 years of leadership, unparalleled service and dedication. Come, be a
part of it, share your story, share your history, share the pride.
Much love to you and your families this holiday season.