Business Unusual

Canadian Conferences Challenge PRSM Members to Get Comfortably Uncomfortable

We’ve all read the headlines and heard the news—brick-and-mortar retail is not the same industry it was 10 years ago, five years ago, one year ago, or even last week. Retail is growing, evolving and delivering new challenges for FMs faster than ever. Just like the U.S., Canada faces its own set of retail issues, which were addressed during PRSM’s Canada West and East conferences in Vancouver, October 18 and Toronto, October 25.

“The Canadian conferences were a huge success,” said Bill Yanek, PRSM CEO. “It was great to see our Canadian retailer and supplier companies come together to discuss challenges in the industry and hear firsthand how PRSM can help them succeed.”

The event kicked off with networking over coffee and quickly moved into the General Session where Codi Shewan challenged attendees to get “comfortably uncomfortable.” Shewan’s dynamic delivery inspired the audience to expect “business unusual” and to step out of their comfort zone to evolve, innovate and grow.

Following a short break, David Ian Gray, a noted retail strategist with DIG360 Consulting, Ltd., dove into the retail transformation and retail’s response to turbulent times. He discussed the implications of current retail trends on the future, and debunked commonly held myths by citing examples of retailers who are “doing it right.”

He helped attendees understand the “why” behind retail changes and provided solid advice on how retailers and suppliers can adapt to better support their businesses. He specifically explained how suppliers must understand the changes retailers are experiencing and create new value-added services that boost the bottom line and improve service.

The Canada Quick Connect and reception kept members engaged during the afternoon. During Quick Connect, suppliers could easily interact with potential new clients, and retailers could share their specific needs with multiple suppliers. 

We want to thank our host, Facility Plus, donors Benjamin Moore and National Coating Solutions and all the volunteers who participated in the PRSM Foundation charity event during PRSM Canada East. PRSM members painted, cleaned and made repairs at the Eden Food for Change charity in Mississauga.

“Facility Plus is proud to host the PRSM Foundation and the great charity work the Foundation does to help those in need,” said Melissa Kloster, Director of Operations at Facility Plus. “Our team enjoys giving back and it’s an excellent way to meet other PRSM members while helping a great cause.”

With two successful Canadian conferences wrapped up, PRSM is already looking toward the future. “Moving forward, we will have an even bigger presence in Canada, which we look forward to rolling out over the next few months,” Yanek said. 

Call to Action: Mark your calendar Sunday, April 28, 2019, the PRSM Foundation will host a golf tournament at Top Golf, during PRSM2019 National Conference. A PRSM Impact Charity event is scheduled for Monday, April 29, at the Volunteers of America Family Hotel in Denver.