MARKET INSIGHTS
True Value goes “All in” in Chicago The distributor plans an in-person Reunion, with a virtual option The last time True Value Company hosted a live general session, a New Orleans Jazz band marched through the aisles. That was February 2020. And after 18 months of social distancing and safety protocols, one might expect a party atmosphere to return to the aisles during the distributor’s 2021 Reunion in Chicago, taking place Sept. 30 to Oct. 2 at McCormick Place. CEO Chris Kempa is inviting True Value nation, as well as all independent hardware retailers, to the company’s Fall 2021 Reunion. The theme of the three-day event is “All In,” providing both an inperson and virtual experience for independent hardware retailers across the country. This buying event will once again bring together retailers, vendors and True Value associates. Among the highlights: • The popular Bargain Burners buying event with deep discounts on a wide range of products; • An action-packed General Session with a state of the business update and the latest news from True Value’s senior leadership team; • A special Welcome Event, with entertainment and networking opportunities; • The Retail Best Practices Conference will be held on the show floor with training courses on merchandising, marketing, sales skills and more. True Value will also offer a virtual platform with exhibitor booths and buying areas to accommodate retailers unable to travel to Chicago. The in-person show floor will open
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at 7 a.m. on Thursday, Sept. 30. It will run through 1 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 2. The virtual platform will have a longer run: available from Sept. 7 too Oct. 24. Special entertainment and additional buying opportunities will be announced closer to the
event, the company said. True Value emphasized that the health and safety of its retailers, vendors and associates is a top priority and all CDC COVID-19 health guidelines and specific city and state requirements will be followed throughout the 2021 Fall Reunion in-person event.
The story on social media With approximately 2,500 associates, 13 regional distribution centers, and some 4,500 stores on the receiving end of products and services, the True Value network means many things to many people. And many of those stories are playing out online.
JULY/AUGUST 2021 HARDWARE + BUILDING SUPPLY DEALER
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