When
Spring/Summer Market – early January, four day market
Fall/Winter/Christmas – late June, four day market
Where
Minneapolis Convention Center, Mpls., MN
Manufacturers
Over 800 manufactures represented
Staffed by factory personnel and manufacturers sales reps
Buying Function
Order product from United warehouse and ship direct sources:
- Order seasonal needs
- Order promotional product
- Replenish regular stock items
|
- Order new items
- Order End Cap merchandise
- Order pallet goods
|
Gross Profit Opportunities
Cash Spiffs – discounts paid in cash
Big Hit Specials – extra hot show specials
Market Only Specials– many sharply reduced items available
Red Carpet Area - clearance and closeout merchandise on display
Datings
Most vendors offer delayed payments - dating varies by manufacturer
Pallet Buys
Fast turn and commodity type product available by the pallet
Schedule deliveries for specific weeks following the market
Power End Caps
View and purchase the next six months end caps
New Item Areas
View all new items added to warehouse inventory since last market
United Staff
Meet with United Hardware personnel:
- Advertising
- Retail Accounting
- Credit
- P.O.S. Computer
- PDT Order Entry
- Rental
|
- Store Planning
- Field Sales
- Customer Service
- Retail Operations
- Transportation
|
- Marketing
- Development
- Merchandisers
- Sr. Management
- Warehouse
|
Seminars
Attend informational meetings about new products, services, sales & merchandising techniques and retail store operations.
POS User Groups
Participate in the meeting supporting your P.O.S system. Learn about enhancements, express concerns and contribute suggestions
Meet Other Dealers
Converse with other retail dealers – share ideas
Lodging & Food
Enjoy the Hilton & Hyatt Hotels – Reduced rate for United Buying Market attendees - Complementary lunches, breakfasts & refreshments at convention center
Entertainment
Attend an evening social gathering – dinner and entertainment – varies with each market