backpacks
Transcription
backpacks
VOLUME 49, ISSUE 1 LUGGAGE L LUGGAGE LEATHERGOODS EATHERGO GOODS AND AND A ACCESSORIES CCESSORIE ES Spring/Summer 2015 www.llanda.com RAINWEAR FOR HIM AND HER backpacks - KEEP EVOLVING Stylish DAY BAGS PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT NO. 40064912 CONTENTS features ADVERTISER INDEX Canadian Gift 9 Association Shows GDS - 13 Messe Düsseldorf Heys International 5 5 Fulton Umbrellas 21 (Canada) Ltd. 2 India Buyer-Seller 15 Exhibition Samsonite Canada 32 Sharn Enterprise 25 Toronto 28 Shoe Show Y5 Fashion 25 10 No-Jet-Lag 25 19 backpacks Meade Ray Int’l - 25 Roots 10 - LLHA Show 16 22 Stylish Day Bags distinctive fashion spins on classic shoulder bags, crossover styles, eco materials, luxe, playful mixes of colours and fabric, and inspiring creations from Canadian designers Tech packs adventure packs, commuter packs, short vacation packs and even quite feminine packs–get the scoop on the evolving backpack LL&A has prepared for you Bring on the rain! Stylish brawlies, boots, coats and hats sure to keep him and her dry, warm and very cosy 4 Ways to Turn “ShowrOomers” Into Customers by Barbara Crowhurst departments 24 29 Product Watch Industry News 19 “Showroomers” www.llanda.com 22 LUGGAGE LEATHERGOODS AND ACCESSORIES | spring/summer2015 3 WITH THE ARRIVAL OF SPRING, there’s a surge of new energy that hits us: it’s called spring cleaning. And that includes both our mental and physical spaces. So why not use this natural energy booster to re-think and re-shape your business so you can better meet your customer’s needs. A very wise man once said “There is only one boss. The customer. And he can Åre everybody in the company from the chairman on down simply by spending his money somewhere else.” Sam Walton So…how well do you really know your customers? Do you buy product for your store based on what you think works or what worked in the past but aren’t sure if it’s still working? Do you design your store based on your style or check out successful competitors to get inspiring ideas? Are you staying ahead of new technologies and adapting it to your business strategy to keep bringing in the “customer of today”. If you’ve answered NO to any of these Yuestions...well it’s spring time. Go ahead start re-imagining your business. A big part of this revolves around product selection. I can’t tell you how often buyers tell me they’re satisÅed with their current suppliers and aren’t looking at anybody new OR too busy to come out and look at product at shows OR tried products one season from somebody that didn’t work and that was that. Guess what–there’s a big world of suppliers out there. Sure there’s nothing wrong with keeping suppliers you love to work with but try keeping an open mind to new companies and products. One season does not a product make– it could Rust be timing. If there’s a show for you to attend and browse product make the time to attend. If suppliers take the time and spend signiÅcant marketing dollars to e`hibit at shows you can argue that’s their Rob well then it’s your job to source new products. Your customers are your Ånal decision makers# your job is to continuously work hard to make them happy and keep them coming back. We hope the pages in LL&A Magazine help to inspire you with some new products new companies and new ideas. Enjoy the changing season. LL&A Team Tammy Mang, Publisher Vida Jurisic, Editor LUGGAGE LEATHERGOODS AND ACCESSORIES Magazine The voice of the Canadian luggage, leathergoods and accessories industry for 49 years www.llanda.com Tammy Mang Publisher President/Publisher TAMMY MANG Editor/Writer VIDA JURISIC Art Director ELLY FOX RON MANG LL&A Buyer’s Forum LL&A Magazine is published three times per year by MEDIA DIVERSIFIED INC. 96 KARMA ROAD, MARKHAM, ONTARIO L3R 4Y3 Tel: 905-944-0265; Fax: 416-296-0994; info@mediadiversified.com SUBSCRIPTION RATES: In Canada, one year $32.90; two years $62.15 (plus 13% HST) Foreign one year $45.00 (USD) Advertising rates on request. Subscription inquiries: 905-944-0265 All rights reserved. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced in part or in whole without the consent of the copyright owner. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher. Request for previous issues are not accepted after three months from date of publication. 4 LUGGAGE LEATHERGOODS AND ACCESSORIES | www.llanda.com spring/summer2015 Vida Jurisic Editor ISSN 0381-9930 Canada Post Canadian Publications Mail Product Sales Agreement Number 40064912 HST Registration #RT883847600 Date of issue Spring/ Summer 2015 Return undeliverable. Canadian addresses to circulation department: LL&A Magazine 96 KARMA ROAD, MARKHAM, ONTARIO L3R 4Y3 TEL: 905-944-0265; Fax: 416-296-0994 info@mediadiversified.com www.llanda.com Printed in Canada 4 www.llanda.com accessories aac cceesssor orrie ieess cco ies corner orner orner 1 Style by Day 1 Fossil Emerson Satchel - White Multi. Supple colourblocked leather. $SRP 298. Fossil Group. www.fossilgroup.com 647-788-8619 AMY TALKS TRENDS LEATHER This season a move to the 70s in RTW is trending and in accessories this era is reflected in both the material selection and colour. We are starting to see lots of suede and metallics making a comeback. COLOURS They are fresh with copper/rose gold being a big hit this season, white, cobalt blue and Mondrian. CLEAN MODERN SHAPES Very sleek, clean line silhouettes in handbags. Backpacks and bucket bags remain at the forefront with a focus on heavy structure, contrast interiors. 2 FUNCTION With the backpack craze, we’re seeing a trend toward function as a focus. Lots of convertible straps, snap off pockets and usable zippers. AMY MALCOM, creative director, Opelle Creative 2 Marcellino Gillian Collection Tote Bag. PU. SRP $69.99. J.Y.S. Enterprise Inc. www.jysenterprise.com 905-565-1472 3 Holiday David Jones PU. SRP $90. Holiday Group. www.holiday.ca 514-325-0660 3 www.llanda.com LUGGAGE LEATHERGOODS AND ACCESSORIES | spring/summer2015 5 accessories corner 4 Min Fashion Ltd. Tassel Rocker Saddle. Leather. SRP $269. Min Fashion Ltd. www.mindesign.ca 647-342-4808 5 Opelle Baby Ballet. Italian tanned pebbled leather. SRP $340. Opelle Inc. www.opellecreative.com 416-822-0206 6 Jessica Jensen Collection Agency Satchel. Italian Saffiano calf leather. SRP $398. Jessica Jensen Incorporated. www.shopjessicajensen.com 416-788-2594 7 Frank Lyman Colour Block Purse. SRP $125. Frankk Lyman Designs. www.franklyman.com n.com www.concubine.com 514-312-5431 8 Concubine Aki Handbag. SRP $68. Cotton brocade/silk. www.concubine.com 514-312-5431 9 Simon Chang PVC. Comes with matching scarf. SRP $110. Sayan. www.sayanbags.com 514-725-1118 10 Jeanne Lottie JL Anniversary Carry-On. Vegan PU. SRP $85. www.jeannelottie.com 416-968-2299 4 9 6 5 Designers 11 Beside-U Bno Unidentified Bno 09. 100% nylon fabric. SRP $80. ISA of Canada Ltd. www.beside-u.ca 905-824-4473 12 La Diva Backpack Handbag. PU. SRP $80. Papillon Intl’l. 1-844-904-1919 13 The Sak Palisade Tote. 100% Leather. SRP $225. Ro-el. 514-382-4261 14 Miss Caprice PVC. SRP $85. Sayan. www.sayanbags.com 514-725-1118 6 LUGGAGE LEATHERGOODS AND ACCESSORIES | 10 spring/summer2015 CANADIAN 6 11 1 12 www.llanda.com www.llanda. Style by Day 8 JANE TALKS TRENDS HAPPY BAGS... optimism expressed in forms of colors and prints... celebration of life... The 70s are back in the spotlight with lots of black and white contrast, prints, fringe and denim. Also making a comeback are lady-like trends, pretty hues of the color pink, blues, lilacs, bright yellow, poppy red, all shades of ocean blue tones and camel. JANE IP, president, 7 Jeanne Lottie 14 1133 www.llanda.com ll d LUGGAGE LEATHERGOODS AND ACCESSORIES | spring/summer2015 7 accessories corner 15 15 Style by Day 15 Nicci Mia Collection. PU. SRP $65 - Large Tote; SRP $55 - Medium Tote; SRP $45 - Crossbody. CBM Inc. www.cbmcorp.com 514-738-5858 16 Derek Alexander CD 1900 Ladies’ tablet friendly business briefcase. Top grain leather hide. SRP $140. Derek Alexander Group. www.derekalexanderleather.ca 1- 888-252-0006 16 117 Eco 17 Bazura Bags Mini Lunch Box. Made from recycled juice containers. SRP $16. Bazura. www.bazurashop.com 705-741-4733 8 119 LUGGAGE LEATHERGOODS AND ACCESSORIES | spring/summer g ummer g/sum er2015 1166 118 18 Rok Cork Guida. Cork. SRP $179. Rok Cork Canada. www.rokcork.ca 416-901-7507 19 Pixie Mood Steph Bag – Chevron. Vegan Leather. SRP $60. www.pixiemood.com 1-888-882-2386 www.llanda.com DEAU A C U D SALONL’AUTOMN0E15 DE SEPT 2 FAIR T F I G L 15 FAL - 12, 20 T9 AUGUS ONTO TOR T-2 30 AOÛ NTRÉAL MO air.org F t f i G o Toront FAIR T F I G L FAL 0 - SEP 2, 2015 AUG 3 NTREAL MO c.org uquebe d u a e d uca r.org salond GiftFai c Quebe THE SECRET OF SHELF APPEAL? HOT PRODUCT! FAIR T F I G L FAL ST 16 - 19, 2015 AUGU NTON EDMO air.org F t f i G a t Alber If you’re a retail buyer in search of today’s hottest products, CanGift trade gift fairs are for you! Three fairs, located conveniently across Canada, bring hundreds of local, national and international lines together to offer you the newest in fashion, home and lifestyle products. Plus, you’ll save big on customer shipping, thanks to our ShipTime VIP program exclusively for retailers who attend the fairs. REGISTER FOR A CANGIFT FAIR NEAR YOU! CanGift.org 1. Ogio Newt 15 Pack. 400D nylon, 300D poly-cotton. SRP $119.99. ACI Brands Inc. www.acibrands.com 1-800-668-5593. Slim pack designed to fit most 15" laptops and tablets in addition to zippered stash pockets and fleece lined valuables pocket. 2. BriGgs Riley BRX Collection Excursion Backpack. 420D nylon, 600D polyester and water-resistant tarpaulin. SRP $145.00 USD. Briggs & Riley Travelware. www.briggs-riley.com 631-434-7722. Rugged yet refined, engineered for any type of travel, making it the ideal carry-on. Padded laptop slip pocket keeps you connected on the go. 3. AMPL SmartBackpack Rain-resistant. S299 USD with integrated battery. AMPL Labs. www.ampl-labs.com 1- 844-267-5522 . Advanced mobile charging system protects portable electronic devices with shockabsorbing core and rain-resistant coating. Innovative SmartSensors communicate battery charging levels and more with dedicated AMPL mobile app. Available this summer. 1 PACK 2 connected on-the-go backpacks - S L I M Briggs B Br riig ggs gs & Riley Rilileeyy 3 AdvAnceD moBile e chaRginG sy syStem 10 LUGGAGE LEATHERGOODS AND ACCESSORIES | spring/summer 2015 www.llanda.com 4 5 WAYS 4 WEAR IT personal SAFETY Anti- Theft 6 TSA 7 www.llanda.com 4. Eagle CrEek Satchel Backpack 200D Helix™ Nylon, 1260D Helix™ Ballistic, PU Synthetic Leather. SRP $135 USD. eaglecreek.com 1-888-824-9460. Designed for the working woman on the go, this urban laptop style bag features three carry options, All Ways Secure built in features anti-theft and personal safety functionality. 5. Travelon Anti-Theft Signature Convertible Backpack. Poly twill. SRP $110 USD. ISA OF Canada Ltd. www.beside-u.ca 905-824-4473. Wear it 4 ways: as a backpack, crossbody, shoulder or hand bag. Locking main compartment protects from pickpockets. Organizer with RFID blocking card and passport slots. Slash-proof construction and straps. 6. Pacsafe Citysafe™ LS300 backpack. Outer material 320D spun polyester, PU1000mm, 640D spun polyester, PU1000mm. SRP $140 USD. www.pacsafe.com 1-206-722-7233 Stylish, functional, with feminine accents. Built-in travel security solutions, including 360° imbedded eXomesh steel webbing, RFID safe identity protection and Carrysafe® slashguard straps to prevent cut and run theft. 7. Osprey Nebula Daypack 420D nylon pack cloth, 210D nylon ripstop. SRP $130. In-Sport Fashions Inc. www.ospreypacks.com 1-800-465-9637. Daypack with premium organization and a TSA airport security approved laptop sleeve for convenient air travel. LUGGAGE LEATHERGOODS AND ACCESSORIES | spring/summer2015 11 Ultra-light 8 9 Sport lifestyle & backpacks - 8. World Famous North 49 Micro Pack. Ultra-light polyester. SRP $12.99. World Famous Sales of Canada Inc. www.worldfms.com. 905-738-4777. Features include zippered main compartment and adjustable shoulder straps. Folds neatly into included carry bag. 9. Oakley Packable Backpack. 70D ripstop nylon. SRP $35.00. http://ca.oakley.com in bags and accessories 1-877-625-5396. Provides durable storage when you need it with a design that conveniently stuffs into an integral pocket. Allows to separately store dry and wet athletic gear. 10. Rudsak Zoey Folded Backpack. New look leather and belt leather. SRP $325.00. www.rudsak.com 514-389-9661. The bag pack is coming back this season and Rudsak created its own cool and rebel version of it. Zoey—a timeless unisex fashion bag for any occasion. 12 LUGGAGE LEATHERGOODS AND ACCESSORIES | spring/summer 2015 10 TIMELESS Fashion www.llanda.com W W W.G D S - O N L I N E .C O M INDUSTRIAL STRENGTH backpacks 11 TOUGH 14 LUGGAGE LEATHERGOODS AND ACCESSORIES | spring/summer 2015 13 12 Storage 11. WiLl Land OutdOors Grotto Backpack. Polyester. SRP $79.99. www.WillLandOutdoors.com 647-931-5215. This tough bag, with large openings and industrial strength zippers, will look as good on the last day of school as it did on the first. 12. MANCINI Leather Backpack for 15.6” Laptop Computer. Supple drum dyed Colombian leather. SRP $315.00. MANCINI Leather Goods Inc. www.mancinileather.com 1-800-276-8346. Magnificent backpack with zippered padded compartment keeps your laptop secure and protected. Zippered front organizer with multiple credit card slots and pockets as well as convenient zippered pockets on both sides. 13. Victorinox SwiSs Army Altmont 3.0 Flapover Drawstring Laptop Backpack. Versatek™. SRP $162.50. www.swissarmy.com 1-800-665-4095. Ensuring that all your belongings are secure, this drawstring backpack holds a laptop, tablet and all of your everyday essentials. Features multiple interior and exterior pockets for maximum storage. 14. Samsonite High Sierra Back-toSchool 2015 Freewheel. Duralite Ripstop. SRP $84.99. Samsonite Canada www.highsierra.ca 1- 800-265-4933. Feature-rich in design with fully-padded Cushion Zone™ computer sleeve that fits most 15” laptops, smooth rolling cornermounted wheels, hideaway telescoping handle and multiple pockets to help keep you organized. ORGANIZATION - fully 14 padded www.llanda.com PRESENTING CANADA’S FIRST BUYER-SELLER EXHIBITION OF FINE LEATHER PRODUCTS FROM 30 INDIAN EXHIBITORS DISPLAY EXCELLENT QUALITY PRODUCTS IN THE LATEST DESIGNS Wednesday October 14 Thursday October 15 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Four Points by sheraton Toronto Airport 6257 Airport Road, Toronto, ON CALL FOR MORE INFORMATION 905-944-9262 NEW DATE... September 28-30, 2015, moved to take advantage of in-season goods for immediate sale. NEW LOCATION... Mississauga Convention Centre, moved to a beautifully finished hall, fully carpeted, lower ceilings for better lighting. NEW FORMAT... a simplified format for easier shopping and browsing. NEW CASH & CARRY... instant access to hot deals on the spot. MARK YOUR CALENDARS NOW SEPTEMBER 28 – 30, 2015 Mississauga Convention Centre 75 Derry Road West, Mississauga, Ontario 16 LUGGAGE LEATHERGOODS AND ACCESSORIES | spring/summer 2015 www.llanda.com AT THE SEPTEMBER 28-30, 2015 35TH ANNUAL LLHA SHOW www.llha.ca MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT: Well, it has been quite a winter for anyone from Alberta to the Atlantic! I sincerely hope we have the opposite extreme this summer. Along with the constant frigid temperatures that were a shock, we were all shocked by the news that Target had given up on Canada. They just could not get it right and rather than invest more, they decided to pull the plug. This, combined with the many recent clothing retailers declaring bankruptcy, has left many in the retail world worried. Add to this the deep drop in oil prices and the Canadian dollar’s retreat, and there is justifiable concern. But rather than getting down on the marketplace, let’s take a positive stance and work to achieve success rather than fearing failure. With the cold and snow in the rearview mirror, it is time to focus on spring, new product arrivals and a rejuvenated consumer! Work continues on the new LLHA show and if you have not already booked your space, do not delay–prime spots are going fast. If you have not already done so, it’s time to renew your LLHA membership. Don’t forget with your paid membership you are entitled to a discount on CPSA memberships. Visit the llha.ca website for more details and a list of the other benefits. We all need to support our industry and the LLHA is your association. Have a great summer, forget about the winter and we will see you at the show in September. Paul Hanley, President, LLHA NOT AN LLHA MEMBER YET? Visit www.llha.ca and click on the Membership link to complete the online LLHA Membership Application. Becoming a member is easy and the best way for your business to grow! Check out what membership in the LLHA has to offer: The LLHA Show is the largest Luggage, Leathergoods, Handbags and Accessories Show held in Canada. It is the market place for buyers and sellers to focus on the most influential and inspired brands, and the place to be if you are looking to be part of today’s retail culture! September 28-30, 2015 at the Mississauga Congress Centre ADDITIONAL FULL MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS INCLUDE: s!NNUAL0RESIDENTS Cocktail Reception s&REELISTINGOFYOUR company and brands and more on our LLHA website s!NNUAL!'--EETING (your opportunity to be heard!) s&REE3UBSCRIPTIONTO LL&A Magazine s!NDMUCHMOREx JOIN US AND BE JOIN USOF AND A PART IT ALL! BE A PART OF IT ALL! www.llanda.com LUGGAGE LEATHERGOODS AND ACCESSORIES | spring/summer2015 17 The LLHA Association is well on our way to bringing you all the hottest products and brands for you to explore when you visit the LLHA Show September 28-30, 2015. The show is already over 50% sold out! Come and explore and shop with your trusted and long-standing brands along with many new companies who have exciting and innovative products to share with you. Make sure not to miss this opportunity in September along with a “cash & carry” section that will allow you to walk away with some great products on the spot. Stay tuned as we update you regularly on additional brands bringing you their latest and greatest this September. If you are not on our e-mail newsletter list, please drop us a note to be included on all the updates. PRESIDENT’S RECEPTION WELCOME MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 6:00 P.M. NEW LLHA MEMBERS AND EXHIBITORS: s Daphne Han & Co. s Cheeky Umbrella s JYS Enterprise Inc. s Equipment Outdoor Technologies Canada Inc. s Rok Cork Canada Gather for a complimentary soirée with great hors d’oeuvres, drinks and camaraderie amongst your peers at the annual President’s Reception which will be held in the Mississauga Convention Centre. BUYER GIFT CERTIFICATES Buyers that pre-register to attend the LLHA Show will have the chance to win gift certificates to spend at an exhibitor’s booth at the show - thousands of dollars being drawn every week from July 2015 until show time! NEW PRODUCT SHOWCASE Once again, we’re pleased to be able to provide you with a snapshot of some incredibly hot & innovative items. Stop at the product showcase displays that will be set up on the show floor and get inspired. www.LLHA.ca BANK ON BIG SAVINGS CPSA membership is a great way to support cost savings throughout your entire organization, so you can focus on business, not budgets. Start the year off right, become a CPSA member to take advantage of great programs that provide savings that will fall right to your bottom line. IN 2015 POPULAR PROGRAMS Save up to Save 72% off 30% off ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE SERVICES NEWR! NE PART standard rates at major car rental companies Save up to Save up to YEARLY FITNESS MEMBERSHIP for 60% off 3 cents $475 per litre Corporate RateS at hotels across Canada and the US ON FUEL PURCHASES AT PETRO-CANADA with GOODLIFE FITNESS NEW PART NER ! LLHA members receive reduced CPSA membership rate of only $105 – 32% off regular rate! BECOME A CPSA MEMBER Download the CPSA application application located locatedon onthe the LLHA and send back LLHA membership membership webpage www.llha.ca andtosend back Member Services at at MemberServices@cpsa.com to Member Services MemberServices@cpsa.com or call 1-888-267-2772 to join directly. 18 LUGGAGE LEATHERGOODS AND ACCESSORIES | spring/summer 2015 www.llanda.com RAINWEAR 1 Photo Courtesy Cheeky Umbrella Rainwear is moving closer to fashion where everything from rain coats, rain boots and umbrellas will show bolder, on-trend designs and colours. In particular, fashion umbrellas have crossed over with new lightweight materials, improved engineering and designs with a stronger fashion focus. In 2015, we will see a trendd towards lines in subtle light blues and grays as well colourrfu ful patterns pa as black and white, tribal colourful and darker designs inspired by Nat bird feathers, diamonds and darkk florals. Natural nature designs in lighter colder colours will also show well. RICHARD IGRA, president, Fulton Umbrellas (Canada) Ltd. td. 2 1.. O 1 Oscardo Wind-Proof Umbrella. Pongee fabric. SRP $50. Oscardo Inc. Pon Po n www.oscardo.com 416-785-8618 ww 2. Cheeky Umbrella Navy with 2 striped interior long. Quick-drying nylon fabric. SRP $45. www.cheekyumbrella.com 604-980-4236 3. Fulton Tiny-2 Clouds. Polyester. SRP $30. Fulton Umbrellas (Canada) Ltd. www.fultonumbrellas.com 1-877-583-1950 4. Fulton Birdcage Floral Border. PVC. SRP $35. F Fulton Umbrellas (Canada) Ltd. ww www.fultonumbrellas.com 1-87 1-877-583-1950 3 4 www.llanda.com LUGGAGE LEATHERGOODS AND ACCESSORIES | spring/summer2015 19 FORHER 5 RAINWEAR 5. Trout Rainwear Humboldt. 60/40 double-faced cotton and polyurethane blend. SRP $535. troutrainwear.com 416-617-4226 6. MTC Thermal-Slicks Women’s Rain Jacket. Polyester. SRP $59.99. Mercantile Trading Corp. www.MTCRainwear.com 514-271-2528 7. Vandica Women’s Rain Hat. Cotton. SRP $20. Vandica Business Inc. www.vandica.com 604-215-0689 8. Hatley Classic Rain Jacket Navy Broken Chevron. SRP $169. USD. Hatley. www.hatley.com 1-800-667-2583 9. däv Fairfield in Cadet/ Charcoal. Rolls up for travel. PVC lower with nylon upper. SRP $110. Style West. www.davrain.com 1-805-330-8500 10. Kamik Jennifer. 100% recyclable waterproof RubberHe. SRP $79.99. Kamik. www.Kamik.com 201-222-9118 11. Hunter Women’s Original Tall Dazzle Boots. Rubber. SRP $245. ca.hunterboots.com 6 7 8 10 11 9 20 LUGGAGE LEATHERGOODS AND ACCESSORIES | spring/summer 2015 www.llanda.com 12 FORHIM 12. Trout Rainwear Bull. 60/40 double-faced cotton and polyurethane blend. SRP $550. www.troutrainwear.com 416-617-4226 13. MTC Thermal-Slicks Men’s Rain Jacket. Polyester. SRP $59.99. Mercantile Trading Corp. www.MTCRainwear.com 514-271-2528 14. Tilley LTM6 Airflo Hat. Water repellent nylon. SRP $84. Tilley Endurables. www.tilley.com 1-800-665-3574 13 14 www.llanda.com LUGGAGE LEATHERGOODS AND ACCESSORIES | spring/summer2015 21 4 “What is stopping you from buying this item here and now?” By Barbara Crowhurst, Internationally recognized retail consultant and business coach and CEO of Toronto-based Retailmakeover.ca and Retailmakeover Web Services. 905-686-8898 retailmakeoverca@gmail.com; www.retailmakeover.ca; www.retailmakeoverblog.com ways “Showroomers” to turn into customers If you’re in retail, you’ve probably heard a lot about “showrooming” in the past few years. If you’re not, here’s a primer: showroomers are consumers who browse for items in-store, then buy them from an etailer (think: Amazon) that offers a better deal. Often, they’ll use their mobile devices to search rival retail websites while they’re still in your store. This type of consumer has always been around; they’re the ones who’ve come into your shop, asked you all kinds of questions and then driven across town to buy it from someone else with a better price. But the electronic age has made this type of shopping so much easier, which is why we’ve seen such a spike in this behavior—research shows that one in five Canadian shoppers is a showroomer. This must be bad news, right? Not necessarily. In fact, I believe showrooming can be very beneficial to independent retailers. Why? Because showroomers are not necessarily wedded to big-box (or big-website) shopping. They are consumers who love to research products and get a deal. And they are more likely to participate in loyalty programs, trade personal details for rewards and participate in innovative mobile commerce than garden-variety shoppers. Showroomers want a shopping experience that independent retailers are fully capable of providing. If you can appeal to their preferences, you can transform them into loyal, paying customers. According to a May 2013 consumer survey done by the IBM Institute for Business Value, 22 LUGGAGE LEATHERGOODS AND ACCESSORIES | spring/summer 2015 25% of showroomers enter a store with the intent of purchasing from the store. In other words, for every four browsers that leave your shop to buy your wares somewhere else, one went in planning to buy it from you. That means something happened in the retail experience—poor customer service, perhaps, or unappealing environment—to make them change their minds. (Perhaps it’s the disdain you might have for smartphone-wielding shoppers might show?) That’s why you’ve got to wow ’em. Give them a reason to buy from you—and to come back. www.llanda.com HOW? He re a re a f ew s u g ge s t i o ns : 1 BE DIRECT If you see someone discreetly (or not-so-discreetly) scouring a rival website while examining a product and/or peppering you with questions about it, don’t be afraid to approach them. After all, they’re already interested in the item. Try this close next time you or your staff see this buyer in your store: simply say, “What is stopping you from buying this item here and now?” Listen to their response and decide whether you’re willing to provide what they want (which is usually a discount) in order to make the sale. Think this is pushy? It’s not. Rather, it’s good customer service. And you’ll be establishing a connection with them that will make them more likely to return. 2 GIVE THEM THE INSIDER TREATMENT Showroomers’ eagerness to get goods at best prices makes them very likely to engage in reward or loyalty program memberships. This is something even a single-shop operation can provide. Simply ask customers to sign up for news of discounts. Give them the choice of receiving alerts of deals via text message or email (or both). Curious about how you’ll get a showroomer to pony up their info? First of all, people are more willing to share it than you might think. That same IBM study referenced above also states that nine out of ten shoppers are willing to spend time—up to 20 minutes, in fact—to provide store operators with their contact info and preferences in order to get word of special offers. So don’t be afraid to ask! A good way to get buyer info to offer a loaded premium on their initial purchase in your store—something comparable to what online etailers can offer—if they sign up. The immediate bargain will leave them satisfied, and the promise of future deals is likely to bring them back for more. Whether you share the info of the first purchase discount via signage or salesperson interaction is up to you, but in my experience the personal connection can count for a lot in this initial encounter. www.llanda.com 3 BEEF UP YOUR OWN ONLINE AND MOBILE PRESENCE It’s probably not just lower prices that drive showroomers away. These consumers love to read product specs, reviews and other details online, and they flock towards retailers with web presences that provide that information. That’s why to impress a showroomer, your website should be interactive and deliver an easy, clear experience for the online browser. Offer free WiFi in store and create a welcome page that offers showroomers a special deal for shopping in-store that day. Bundle products together on highly competitive items that are researched by showroomers—if you have a good website, you’ll know what people are looking at—and promote them on your website (and through your email/mobile database). Perhaps most importantly, train your frontline staff to inform showroomers of all these things in a way that’s friendly and engaging. Offer free WiFi in store and create a welcome page that offers showroomers a special deal for shopping in-store that day. 4 DON’T COMPETE ON PRICE ALONE First purchase discounts and special promos are great ways to lure a showroomer into your fold. But you probably don’t want to race to the bottom, price-wise. While there will always be some buyers who will chase the lowest price, many others will return to your shop if you’ve given them a positive, engaging, convenient shopping experience. If you wow them at the outset, you’re far more likely to gain their loyalty longer-term. LUGGAGE LEATHERGOODS AND ACCESSORIES | spring/summer2015 23 product watch TRAVEL & small leather goods # Club Rochelier Emma Collection, CBM # 27241 (Large Tote); CBM # 12241 (Medium Tote); and CBM # 6364 (Clutch). PU. Colours: salmon/dk brown (Large Tote), chocolate (Medium Tote) and salmon (Clutch). SRP $80 (Large Tote); $65 (Medium Tote); and $45 (Clutch). Contact CBM Inc. at 514-738-5858 or visit www.cbmcorp.com > Simon Chang Wallet # 31093. PVC. Black and white only. SRP $55. Contact Sayan at 514-725-1118 www.sayan.ca > > Go Travel offers the most complete range of high quality travel accessories. Contact Clear Image Marketing & Promotions at 905-689-3123 or visit www.clearimagemarketing.ca > Cabrelli & Co Fashion Executives introduce # 715007Victoria Houndstooth. Carry-on size, responsive in-line wheels, and padded compartments for 15.6” laptop and tablets of any size. Top zip roller, front pocket with turn lock closure. Available in black/white, taupe multi. Made with shiny textured PVC. SRP $160. Contact Cabrelli Inc. at 514-384-4750 or visit www.cabrelli.net 24 LUGGAGE LEATHERGOODS AND ACCESSORIES | spring/sum spring/summer2015 www.llanda.com www.llanda.com LUGGAGE LEATHERGOODS AND ACCESSORIES | spring/summer2015 25 product watch TRAVEL & backpacks Delsey Helium Air, # 160 series. 100% Virgin Makrolon® Polycarbonate. Lightweight construction and components. 25” Spinner weighs only 7.9 lbs. Colours: blue, silver and black. SRP $350. for 25” Spinner. Contact Samboro Luggage (Canada) Corp at 1-905-305-1888 or visit www.samboro.ca > Frobisher Canvas Daypack # 1014. Heavy cotton canvas, leather trim and pocket closures, one main compartment and 2 large side pockets. Padded inner computer pocket sleeve, canvas shoulder straps with foam padding, top web carry handle. Available in olive, black and khaki. SRP $69.99. Contact World Famous Sales of Canada Inc. at 905-738-4777 or visit ww.worldfms.com > > Pacsafe showcases venturesafe™ 65L GII travel pack # 60360. Fully loaded with travel security solutions including 360° imbedded eXomesh steel webbing, and ToughZip double zippers to help prevent pack break-ins. Made of 420D nylon 3-line ripstop, 840D ballistic nylon, PU1000mm (lining) 200D polyester, PU1000mm. Available in olive/khaki. SRP $325 USD. Contact Pacsafe at 206-722-7233 or visit www.pacsafe.com > MANCINI showcases the Biztech collection backpack for 17” laptop/ tablet, # 91870. Made of high performance 1680 denier ballistic nylon, 600 denier ripstop nylon, 420 denier jacquard. Available in black. SRP $190. Contact Mancini Leather Goods Inc. at 1-800-276-8346 or visit www.mancinileather.com 26 LUGGAGE LEATHERGOODS AND ACCESSORIES | spring/summer 2015 www.llanda.com > Briggs & Riley Transcend Collection # TP355. A stylish, lightweight backpack that makes the perfect personal item for your trip. Roomy main compartment, various pockets to keep you organized. Made of lightweight, durable 100% nylon two-tone twill fabric that resists wear, moisture, dirt and abrasion. Available in black, crimson, hunter green. SRP $149 USD. Contact Briggs & Riley at 631-434-7722 or visit www.briggs-riley.com > High Sierra Back-to-School 2015: Swerve. Feature-rich in design, Swerve backpacks include a fully-padded Cushion Zone™ computer sleeve that fits most 17” laptops, integrated Tech Spot™ tablet computer sleeve and s-shaped padded Vapel™ mesh shoulder straps with Suspension System and integrated media pocket. Made of duralite ripstop. SRP $54.99. Contact Samsonite Canada at 1-800-265-4933 or visit www.highsierra.ca > Eagle Creek introduces the backpack briefcase RFID # EC 41294. The functionality of a briefcase with the light weight and easy carry ability of a backpack. Made of 200D Helix™ Dobby, blocker weave, 600D Helix™ Oxford. Available in black, brown, celestial blue. SRP $120 USD. Contact Eagle Creek at 1-888-824-9460 or visit www.eaglecreek.com www.llanda.com LUGGAGE LEATHERGOODS AND ACCESSORIES | spring/summer2015 27 TORONTO SHOE SHOW SPONSORED BY THE ONTARIO SHOE TRAVELLERS ASSOCIATION AUGUST 23 - 25 , 2015 TH THE LARGEST SHOE SHOW IN CANADA TORONTO CONGRESS CENTRE, 650 DIXON RD. T O R O N T O S H O E S H O W . C O M business to business news ASSOCIATION NEWS It is indeed a year of change. The industry says farewell to some very long standing members of our community. Please join us in wishing a “Bon Voyage” to Brian & Debbie Hobrecker, Kellys Luggage; Kit & Lynne Johaneson, Bags n’ All and Perry & Rheta Mogus, Urban Traveller. Read their heartfelt goodbye’s below: After 138 years, Kellys Luggage closed its doors for the final time on December 31, 2014. I have been in this business for close to forty five years and have seen many changes to independent retailers. Once small stores were a vital part of any mall; today most malls do not want independents, they want to look the same coast to coast. So, with the big box stores, the shopping channels and online shopping, our time had come. Kellys was one of the original CLLDA members and I have proudly been a member and served on the board for many years. It has been wonderful watching it grow and diversify. Debbie and I have certainly enjoyed our many relationships with all the members, our suppliers and reps we have been privileged to know and work with. We consider many of you good friends and will remember all the great times we spent together. Please look us up if ever you are down East! It has been a very emotional and difficult decision to close, however, we leave this business knowing Kellys has served our community with good service, honesty and respect. We will miss all of you and wish you all continued success. Thanks for the memories! BRIAN & DEBBIE HOBRECKER About 25 years ago, I fell into the luggage business after spending 20 years in the fashion industry. Little did I realize then what a wonderful industry the Luggage/ Leathergoods world is. (My wife, Rheta, had an inkling it would be a good fit). I spent a few years running Collacutt Luggage and then took the opportunity to open our own store, Urban Traveller, in 1994. 21 years later, this part of our journey is coming to an end. We are both retiring this year, but Urban Traveller will continue to grow and prosper in the capable hands of a new owner. We have made many life-long friends with other retailers we met through our association with the CLLDA and with many of the fine suppliers we deal with. The journey has been wonderful! It has been particularly gratifying to have been a part of the growth and prosperity of the CLLDA over the years. Rheta and I extend an open invitation to any/all of our good friends to visit us in Burlington whenever you are ‘in town’. Remember the wine is always good and the conversations memorable. Thank you PERRY MOGUS, Urban Traveller www.llanda.com LUGGAGE LEATHERGOODS AND ACCESSORIES | spring/summer2015 29 business to business news ASSOCIATION NEWS Bags n’ All 37 years doing business as Bags n’ All! 34 years in our current location in Kelowna’s Orchard Park Shopping Centre! Heading into retirement! People ask “What is the secret to your success?” Our reply is always People”–All of them–People are our success!” First it’s the customers. They are our people. In retail we say, “Every day is a new day.” Every customer that day is a new customer. We listen to what they tell us. We hear what they are asking us. When they need something we don’t have today, we try to order it and we always call them back, no matter what. People includes our staff, our team of experts on our product and on selling. Our training program is 12 intensive days! It’s based on the successful retail selling system by the Friedman Group. Each employee is given the tools to become empowered to make the best decision for any customer, in any situation. People includes our children who helped us reach success by becoming successful themselves. People includes our friends and acquaintances within the large family we call The Industry, the CLLDA, the LLHA, the TGA. Some of those friends are the children of our start-up friends we have known for more than 30 years. What a celebration it would be if we could all get together today! People includes our suppliers and their sales reps, and those in the offices, from reception to the shipping department. We have a mutual understanding—we listen to each other and, together, we order the product that we feel meets our customers’ needs. It’s no secret that people can shop wherever they want, that no store or online shop has one of a kind product. We feel we must provide people with the best experience we can. Our customers remember our service. They tell their friends. People, all people, drive our sales. We are a small family business with a staff of terrific people. The philosophy of Bags n’ All is People, Product, and Value. This tradition will be carried on by Cherise, with our fine staff. With Best Regards, KIT AND LYNNE JOHANESON Bags n’ All The LL&A team congratulates Jeanne Lottie on its 30th Anniversary! Jeanne Lottie is celebrating 30 years in business! Created by sisters Jane and Charlotte Ip around the philosophy of true happiness, the Canadian handbag company has both survived and thrived over the years. The True Happiness brand is here to stay for many more years to come. What are the secrets behind the success? 4. Be in control: in all aspects of business 1. Be creative: create new, fresh ideas every season 5. Be honest: to yourself and to others 2. Be passionate: love and believe 6. Be humble: listen and learn everyday 3. Be kind: to all people In short, live life. Business should be a part of life, not a burden. It’s a game you learn to play better and better over the course of a lifetime. Do it with true happiness. At Jeanne Lottie, we do it with true happiness. 30 LUGGAGE LEATHERGOODS AND ACCESSORIES | spring/summer 2015 www.llanda.com ANNOUNCEMENTS JOANEL INC. and BUGATTI-SEDONA INC. are pleased to announce a strategic alliance of several aspects of their businesses while continuing to maintain their separate and distinct operations. Joanel Inc. will have the mandate to innovate the design aspect of the brands owned by Bugatti-Sedona. In return, Bugatti-Sedona inc. will provide its distribution strength to Joanel Inc. brands. This alliance will increase sales and market share for each of these companies in North American and at the global level where Bugatti-Sedona has recently been vigorously taking an important position. UPCOMING SHOWS GDS July 29-31, 2015 | www.gds-online.com Western Canada Shoe Association August 7-10, 2015 (Edmonton) | www.wcsa.ca Toronto Gift Show August 9-12, 2015 | www.torontogiftfair.org Alberta Gift Fair August 16-19, 2015 | www.albertagiftfair.org Toronto Shoe Show August 23-25, 2015 www.torontoshoeshow.com Western Canada Shoe Association August 28-30, 2015 (Vancouver) | www.wcsa.ca Salon Du Cadeau De L’Automne August 30 - September 2, 2015 www.quebecgiftfair.org Trends, The Apparel Show September 10-14, 2015 www.trendsapparel.com OFE Presents Profile September 18-21, 2015 | www.profileshow.ca Vancouver Gift Fair September 20-21, 2015 www.vancouvergiftexpo.com Vancouver Fashion Week September 22-28, 2015 www.vancouverfashionweek.com FEATURE SHOW LLHA Show Toronto, Ont. | September 28-30, 2015 | www.llha.ca www.llanda.com LUGGAGE LEATHERGOODS AND ACCESSORIES | spring/summer2015 31 ENTER THE FANTASTICAL WORLD OF LIGHTNESS. WWW.SAMSONITE.CA