s we enter the busy winter trade show season, I would like to take a moment to
recognize the contributions of Tom Fulghum to the industry. A founding partner
of Urban Expositions, Fulghum is retiring this month as executive vice president,
but will continue with the company as a consultant. I have known Tom
for over 25 years, and he is a true innovator. I wish him congratulations on a well-deserved
retirement.
Our cover story looks at country stores in Connecticut, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania,
Georgia and West Virginia. Although shoppers are spending with care, they are still looking
to these warm shops for a unique retail experience.
In the Zoo and Aquarium Section, we tackle the subject of the vicissitudes of logo merchandise
at aquarium stores, and how promotional efforts can make a difference at zoo gift
stores.
College bookstores have been preparing for 2009 for months, and we examine trends on
the horizon for this year at both National Association of College Stores (NACS) member
bookstores and independent college shops.
Many Minor League Baseball souvenir stores are busy year-round, and our story this issue
focuses on off-season selling strategies from which any attraction retail shop can learn.
A trip to a fine art museum often concludes with a souvenir search at what have become
increasingly sophisticated retail environments. Apparel, whether ties or T-shirts, which make
a connection to a museum’s exhibitry are often the choice of shoppers wanting to take a bit
of a favorite artist’s work home, our story finds.
Historic homes and museums across the nation likewise make thoughtful connections
between the environment and what is offered in the on-site gift shop. Our writer discussed
how a carefully purchased jewelry selection can take visitors back in time to experience a
home’s period in history.
Candles and other scented merchandise lift the spirits and are a staple in any gift store.
Hospital shops are no exception, our story found, and may enjoy even greater success with
scents because of their therapeutic setting. The story is part of a special section that also
includes all the latest facts on candles and answers frequently asked questions.
We also offer pieces on licensed merchandise, pet gifts, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day,
Nurses Week, graduations, party stores and more. We hope you enjoy the issue. Please contact
us with you questions, suggestions and comments at the e-mail address below.
Scott C. Borowsky
President and Executive Editor
SOUVENIRS, GIFTS AND NOVELTIES MAGAZINE
EDITORSGNMAG@KANEC.COM
“SATISFACTION DOES NOT COME WITH ACHIEVEMENT,
BUT WITH EFFORT. FULL EFFORT IS FULL
VICTORY.” — MAHATMA GANDHI
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