| IDEA EXCHANGE |
| Discuss some of today’s most critical industry concerns in−depth with peers in an informal roundtable format. Share your insights and experiences as you explore common challenges and solutions. Come prepared to offer information as well as to ask questions. Group conclusions will be presented the following day. Choose from among four sessions: |
| Going Green: Getting Started |
While industry leaders agree that green is here to stay, many companies are still trying to get a handle on what they need to do. Where can you start? What’s the low−hanging fruit for members? What steps offer the biggest, most immediate payback? What areas are hindering your firm’s progress? Come prepared to name the most effective simple step your company has taken in this exchange of initial experiences and concerns. |
| Facilitators: Lisa Russell, LEED AP, manager, sustainability, A.R.E., and Bob Johnson, director, design, Harbor Industries Inc. |
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| Green Development: Who’s on First |
As retailers and designers look to suppliers to provide green products and services, the need for staff expertise is critical. How is it best addressed—an individual solely focused on green, multidisciplinary team meetings? What information do other employees need, and how should it be communicated? Is special training necessary? What benefits will LEED accreditation provide, and which, if any, staffers should seek this professional credential? Discuss organizing, managing, and educating staff for going green. |
| Facilitator: Lisa Thompson, LEED AP, director, environmental development, idX Corporation, and Joe Nevin, senior principal, Bergmeyer Associates Inc. |
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| Retail Design: Emerging Trends |
Changes in the popularity of retail concepts influence what will be asked of designers and suppliers. What concepts are cutting−edge? Which innovations are getting noticed? What capabilities will be asked of fabricators? Which material properties are in demand? What features are being sought for fixtures, displays, lighting, and other environmental elements? Share what you’re hearing from retail customers and learn how you’ll be affected. |
| Facilitator: Denny Gerdeman, principal, Chute Gerdeman Retail |
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| The Economy Post-Bailout: What It Means for Our Industry |
The U.S. government is providing an unprecedented financial bailout of the insurance and financial industries, and many say we are already in a recession. What are the ramifications for the retail environments industry? How bad will the economy get before it gets better? How can retail environments companies remain financially healthy in 2009 and beyond? Explore strategies to survive an economic downturn in this timely session. |
| Facilitator: Robert Reeve Frackelton, vice president, Reeve Store Equipment Co. |
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