Retailers Forum Magazine Feb. 2023

This is a Buying Guide for RETAIL STORE OWNERS

Presented within the pages are the latest offerings from the country’s leading merchandise wholesalers. The advertisers herein sell strictly wholesale and require that you purchase with the intent of reselling through retail channels.

1. Check the INDEX on Pages 6 & 7.

2. Find the Product Category and View the Various Companies.

3. CLICK on the Company you’re interested in and their Ad Page will Open Immediately.

1. CLICK on the website in the ad and you will open the company’s website.

2. CLICK on an email in the ad and you can send a message

ALL WEBSITES AND EMAILS IN EVERY AD ARE LIVE LINKS. JUST CLICK ON

Reach Active Buyers with our Print Readership

Plus over 265,000+ Page Views Monthly Online

✔ Apparel and Accessory Stores

✔ Card and Gift Stores

✔ Discount and Dollar Stores

✔ Distributors and Jobbers

✔ General Merchandise Stores

✔ Internet On Line Stores

✔ Mail Order Catalog Sales

✔ Novelty and Toy Stores

✔ On Line Stores

✔ Resort and Souvenir Stores

✔ Sporting Goods Stores

✔ Variety Merchandise Stores

✔ Wholesalers

ESTABLISHED IN 1981 as a buying source for store owners and wholesalers, Retailers Forum offers advertisers a large national circulation to showcase their products and services. Many of our readers are located in rural areas where access to merchandise is difficult, making our magazine indispensable to their buyers.

Through our unique direct mail and trade show circulation we constantly rotate our mailing lists, adding new stores monthly enabling us to deliver new, fresh buyers each and every month you advertise with us.

In addition to your print ad, your company will be featured in our digital on line monthly version at www.RFmagazine.com. Our online magazine produces over 265,000+ page views monthly for our advertisers, which is in addition to our print and mail distribution. Your online ad will link to your website and email address and we provide unlimited transfers from our readers into your website 24/7.

ADVERTISING RATES

Prices shown per month, above rates include full color printing

ADVERTISING SPECS

Email

FULL MARKETING PROGRAM INCLUDED >>

✔

✔ Online magazine and search marketing

✔ Distribution at top trade shows

Printed Magazine

• Your ad is featured in our printed magazine circulated to buyers across the USA. Includes distribution at industry’s top trade shows.

Complete Digital Magazine

• Your ad runs on-line at www.RFmagazine.com

• Over 265,000+ monthly page views

• Active link to your website

Phone APP

• Your company included in our free iPhone and Android APP. Imagine YOUR company right on the buyers phones!

Reader Response

• Generates leads from buyers interested in your products through a code placed in your ad and on-line at www.vendor411.com. Free for all half and full-page ads.

Search Marketing

• Your company included in the industry’s leading search engine: www.supplier411.com

• Saturation marketing coverage on our new wholesale portal: www. wholesalesources.com

TOP INDUSTRY TRADE SHOWS 2023

Off Price Show NY TBD

The Merchandise Center, IL

JUNE

Dallas Gift & Variety Show

Greensboro Gift & Jewelry Show

LA Fashion Market

JULY

Atlanta Gift & Home Furnishings

California Marketplace

Philadelphia Gift & Variety Show

The Merchandise Center, IL

AUGUST

ASD Market Week

Biloxi Wholesale Show

Louisville Gift Show

Off Price Specialist Show

New Orleans Gift & Jewelry Show

Rocky Mountain Gift Show TBD

St. Louis Gift Show

SEPTEMBER

Asia America Wholesale Show

Dallas Home & Gift Show

Greensboro Gfit & Jewelry Show

Hawaii Gift Show

Norton’s Gift & Variety Show

Philadelphia Candy & Gift Show

The Merchandise Center, IL

OCTOBER

Dallas Apparel & Accessories Show

Las Vegas Souvenir & Gift Show

The Merchandise Center, IL

NOVEMBER

Gatlinburg Gift Show

Hawaii Merchandise Expo

New Orleans Gift & Jewelry Show

Smoky Mountain Variety

DECEMBER

Grand Strand Gift & Variety Show

Greensboro Gift & Jewelry Show

The Merchandise Center, IL

Our Large Holiday Issue Hits The Mails Before Thanksgiving to Maximize Advertisers Results!

We provide physical magazines at shows or email free digital magazine to attendees using Attendee database lists.

Retailers Love Valentine’s Day

FEBRUARY is the month of love across the land. Valentine’s Day is our first major shopping holiday since the Christmas season. We will also be celebrating President’s Day, which, although may not be romantic, unless you’re Martha Washington, can really ring up sales for retailers.

HAVING come off a slightly better holiday season than expected, there is some optimism for the new year. Inflation is slowly being curbed and retailers are hopeful that consumer confidence will rise which will lead to more spending.

IT is time to get your store, booth or website ready to get bit by the “love bug” for Valentine’s Day. Shoppers in all age groups will be looking for holiday gifts, in all price ranges. And while these lovers will be scouring the markets there will be another group looking to take advantage of President’s Day goods which can be typically higher price points. The take-away is that lots of people will be out shopping for a myriad of items.

THE largest benefactors of Valentine’s Day will be jewelers and florists followed by candy sellers. But in reality, all types of items can be marketed for this holiday if you do it creatively. Why couldn’t a special fishing lure or auto or cellular accessory be given to your someone special? Your business needs to capitalize on this concept and

decorate your sales space with ideas that let shoppers know that you sell great gifts!

HANG a sign that says “These Fleece Gloves Make a Great V-Day Gift!” A small effort on your part can dramatically increase your sales. Your space needs to scream “Come in and shop!” to everyone that is passing by so they don’t pass you by!

WHEN it comes to gift buying most shoppers are more focused on finding the right gift than a cheap price. What will hurt your sales is not having the right type of merchandise to entice shoppers.

AS for President’s Day, it is a great weekend to take advantage of the marketing the big box stores will be doing. They’ll get the shoppers out of the house and on the road. Your job is to detour them into your store to spend their money with you.

IF you sell some items the big box store advertise, price yours $1 under and put a big sign in your window. Bring in new shoppers and show they why independent retailers are so important to our community.

ON a final note, we’re proud to be media sponsors of the ASD Vegas Show which we will proudly be sharing this issue with attendees. Trade shows are very important to all of our success and we welcome the many thousands of new readers from the show this month.

APPAREL

❑ All Advertisers in APPAREL

❑ 28. Capsmith

BUSINESS SERVICES

❑ All Advertisers in BUSINESS SERVICES

❑ 09. Equitrade Barter

❑ 24. Forum Business Advisors

COLLECTIBLES

❑ All Advertisers in COLLECTIBLES

❑ 11. Extra Mile

❑ 03. Patter’s Collectibles

CREDIT CARD PROCESSING

❑ All Advertisers in CREDIT CARD PROCESSING

❑ 68. EXP Merchant

GENERAL & VARIETY

❑ All Advertisers in GENERAL & VARIETY

❑ 07. Ramsons

HOME & HOUSE

❑ All Advertisers in HOME & HOUSE

❑ 23. Dakota Steel Art

❑ 21. Sanders Collection

❑ 12. SJT Enterprises

SPORTING GOODS

❑ All Advertisers in SPORTING GOODS

❑ 04. Ohio Knife

❑ 10. Sol E ect

SUNGLASSES

❑ All Advertisers in SUNGLASSES

❑ 06. Amstyle

WESTERN

❑ All Advertisers in WESTERN ACCESSORIES

❑

WHAT’S HOT

For more information, contact: www.Amstyle.us 844-426-7895

SALES ARE SO BRIGHT…

THE sunglass and eye-wear business has always been one of the most lucrative and sought after by retailers to get their share of. The only problem that many retailers, vendors and online sellers have is finding the right supplier who understands the trends and pricing.

AL Underwood is the solution! Here is a man who has been involved with sunglasses and eye-wear since the 1970’s. He has lived through all the trends and started back in college selling sunglasses from the back of van. This is THE guy you want to help you be successful in this space!

AMSTYLE has countless styles, colors and varieties to fully stock any sunglass sellers space. Al has the expertise to direct you to the best selling goods.

THIS month’s special is HIS Active Sports collection. Easy $9.99 retailers you buy at $3.50.

For more information, contact: 1-626-599-8277 www.Soleffect.com

1-STOP SPORTING GOODS SUPPLIER

WITH over 30 years in the business, Sol Effect Enterprises is your one stop shop for anything and everything needed for sporting goods. With decades of experience in this space they offer the best selling, competitively priced products anywhere in the industry today.

OVER the years the company has expanded to specialize in OEM, Import, Export and Distribution of hundreds of fast-selling sporting goods. With their warehouse in California and their international connections, Sol Effect will be able to service all size buyers for their sporting goods needs.

THE hottest items now are soccer balls, basketballs and all types of roller skates and inline skates and accessories. The trick to be successful with sporting goods is to offer an incredible selection of trendy items at prices that everyone can afford. And Sol Effect does not disappoint!

THIS month’s special of Soccer Balls starting at just $3.25 with low MOQ. These balls have been a hit since the FIFA games.

For more information, contact: www.Forum123.com

Tel: 1-631-754-5000

USA AUCTION DIRECTORY

I’M sure that you have heard great stories about how someone snapped up a great deal at a local or national auction. How and where do people get the scoop on these auctions?

THE USA Auction Directory will be your guide to auctions in every state in the USA and shows you how to sign up for free to be on the auction mailing lists.

INCLUDED are all types of auctions including government, property, livestock, jewelry, autos and boats, businesses and tons or merchandise. The best part of this comprehensive directory is that you don’t have to buy anything further! Everything you need to be a successful auction buyer is included. The book is available in print or PDF format for just $39.95

RETAILING NEWS

Fashion Company Express Transformation

FASHION retailer Express has turned to WHP Global as it begins a large-scale transformation of the company. WHP, a brand turnaround firm that owns a number of companies, including Toys R Us, will take a 7.4% stake in Express.

THE CEO of Express said that the partnership was part of a “large-scale transformation” that would allow Express to boost growth by acquiring multiple brands and operating them on the Express platform.

BASED in New York, WHP owns and manages brands with a combined $4.5 billion in retail sales, focused on those with “legacy character traits” as the company website states.

WHP stepped in to assist Toys R Us last year after the chain closed its last two stores in the United States, opening a new store at the American Dream Mall in New Jersey. The toy retailer has since branched out even further, opening locations inside Macy’s stores around the country.

THE company’s investment in Express comes in two parts, the first being $25 million from WHP to acquire 5.4 million shares in Express, giving it a 7.4% stake in the company, which owns 550 stores in addition to its eCommerce operations.

THE two entities will also form a $400 million “intellectual property joint venture” with WHP investing $235 million for a 60% ownership.

THE WHP/Express partnership news came the same day that Express released its quarterly earnings that showed an 8% decline in comparable sales.

Tax Deductions for Your Business

EVERY small business owner should always keep aware on changes to tax codes or other tax codes that will be advantageous to your bottom line. We’re all in business to make money and keep as much of it that we generate. Always remember that a basic rule in taxes is that you pay taxes on your profits and your profit is your income minus ordinary expenses that you report to the IRS every year on Schedule C. So when you sit down to do your taxes make sure that you have tracked every single business expense that you’re entitled to.

HERE are some popular tax deductions that you want to make sure that you are not missing.

1. Repairs or alterations to your home office. This could include painting, re-flooring, better lighting and even cleaning services.

2. Education. Any education or training related to what you do to earn money is deductible.

3. Travel. If you visit a client, pay to park or pay a toll this is deductible. Your mileage is also if your client does not reimburse you for this.

4. Your website. All related costs to your online presence can be deductible, including paying for the website creation or maintenance.

5. Start-up costs. If this is your first year in business the legal and professional fees you pay to complete and file your paperwork are deductible.

6. Research and development. If you’re creating a new product, the expenses relevant to bringing the product to market are deductible.

7. Interest on debt. Business loans are tax deductible as long as it’s an arms-length transaction. Deduct interest costs from loans and business credit cards.

8. Finally, industry publication subscriptions are also deductible.

BRINGS

BUYERS & SELLERS TOGETHER UNDER ONE ROOF AT LVCC

The leading wholesaler and supplier brands will come together at ASD Marketweek, February 26th - March 1st, 2023 in a distinct trade show experience for thousands of exhibitors in the style and beauty, jewelry, gift, toy, and value categories.

The ASD shows provide a unique environment where buyers and sellers come together to do business. By having the entire show under one roof at the Convention Center it makes it convenient for attending buyers to cover more exhibits and spend more time with the exhibitors to make their purchases. The show continues to evolve and improve by separating product categories such as gift, toy, fashion and general merchandise making it easier than ever for buyers to pinpoint specific areas to see the products they are interested in.

In addition, the show will offer seminars on topics of interest to the current retail environment including social media, search engine strategies, e-commerce and global sales strategies. All seminars will take place on site at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

For over 62 years, ASD Marketweek has been serving the unique community of buyers and sellers in the wholesale and mass retail arenas. The show will take place from February 26th - March 1st, 2023 at the Las Vegas Convention Center and is expected to draw over 45,000 buyers including large chain retail stores, independent retailers, online retailers, distributors, boutique franchisers, mall carts and kiosks. The show offers the most comprehensive selection of general merchandise under one roof in the country.

Forum Publishing Company will be celebrating its 42nd Anniversary in May and has been a proud Media Partner of the ASD Marketweek since 1981. We welcome all exhibitors and attendees to the show and look forward to seeing you there!

PREMIUM VAPE PRODUCTS

ASPIRE FAVOSTIX A POD KIT

The Aspire Favostix Pod Kit is a slim pen-style pod system, featuring 1000mAh built-in battery, 30W max output, draw or button activated firing, 0.42 inch OLED screen and 3.0ml refillable $29.99

UWELL CALIBURN X U POD KIT

The Uwell Caliburn X Pod Kit is a new compact pod system of Caliburn family, featuring 850mAh battery, single fire button, OLED display screen, 3.0ml pod capacity and Caliburn G $39.99

VAPORESSO V TARGET 100 KIT

The Vaporesso Target 100 Kit is a new compact yet versatile vape mod, featuring 100W max output, single 18650/21700/20700 battery, 5.0ml iTank and GTi coil series compatibility. $64.99

ARABICA A COFFEE C E-LIQUID E-L BY EULIQ - 60ML

The Arabica Coffee E-Liquid by eULIQ is a premium ejuice with strong coffee flavor

MENTHOL E-LIQUID BY DEKANG - 30ML/50ML

The Menthol E-Liquid by Dekang is the popular E-liquid with icy cool menthol flavor, available in 0mg, 3mg, 6mg, 11mg, 18mg and 24mg, offering a satisfying vaping with fresh flavor $9.99

PASSION FRUIT NIC SALT E-LIQUID - VAPELF - P 30ML

The Passion Fruit Nic Salt E-Liquid by Vapelf offers the note of tangy passion fruit in a synthetic nicotine salt blend to delight the tongue. $12.99

TRADITIONAL TOBACCO - LIQUA E-LIQUID - T 30ML/70ML Shop the Traditional Tobacco E-liquid By LIQUA, presenting the distinctive flavor of classic tobacco with spicy and aromatic sandalwood fragrance, available in 0mg, 3mg, 6mg, 12mg and 18mg. $10.99

WATERMELON E-LIQUID BY JOYETECH - 30ML

The Menthol E-Liquid by Dekang is the popular

The Watermelon E-Liquid by Joyetech is the premium E-Liquid with gentle and smooth refreshing watermelon flavor, tastes classical crisp and sweet. Mixed to a 70% PG/30% VG blend

$10.99

MAX BLUEBERRY - ARAMAX E-LIQUID - 30ML

The Max Blueberry by ARAMAX E-liquid is a taste of ripe and fresh blueberry maximized with a sweet and refreshing aroma, available in 0mg, 3mg, 6mg, 12mg and 18mg $9.99

MARK RETS Making You f-Marketing

SPEAK UP OFTEN

SPEAK UP AND OFTEN

MARKETING SECRETS SELF-MARKETING

A P latform for Increaseed Prosppe cting

Be Real: Admit Past Indiscretions

One of the largest draws to a Public Relations Society of America meeting was the presentation, “My Favorite P.R. Failure.” Six seasoned, highly respected pros in the field agreed to share a case study where something went awry. Chapter members, media, and guests flocked to the luncheon to laugh at someone else’s mistakes.

While attendees need to know what to do to be a success, no one wants to look up to the speaker as a god. If all you can tout are your accomplishments, you make success look easy and a bit distant to mere mortals who daily battle life’s challenges. You’ll earn respect and admiration from the crowd if you candidly share mistakes you made along the way. With you serving as the fall guy, others can avoid those pitfalls and more quickly reach their goal After all, if they wanted to make all those mistakes themselves, why would they attend your seminar or speech? They’re paying you to share shortcuts to success, and they want to know how not to do something as much as how to do it People want to hear personal stories, and if you can illustrate a point with a funny story, all the better.

Jeanine Just believes her success as a speaker is directly linked to the fact that her audiences sense that she is honest and genuine. “I wear

my emotions on my sleeve,” she says. “If I trip and fall walking up to the podium, we all stand there and laugh. People trust me when I speak. I have an open, easy style; I don’t put myself up on a pedestal I’m right there with the audience, talking about what is important to them and assisting them with issues they want to deal with ”

Just says that her primary marketing objective is to build relationships. “I don’t invest in Madison Avenue marketing techniques, but if I treat my audiences right, they will come back and refer me to others. You can’t have a salesforce better than that.”

Kent echoes the sentiment. “You must have a clear idea of who and what you are and be willing to be honest and admit your weaknesses if you want to win over an audience,” he says. “Be prepared to talk about your topic, but don’t have a prepared speech. The fewer formulas you use the better. And, as Shakespeare’s Polonias said, ‘Above all, to they own self be true ’“

Conclude With A Call To Action

Last impressions are lasting. Don’t kill the excitement you’ve created during your presentation with a weak ending. At all costs, avoid the phrase, “And in conclusion,” and never apologize for your presentation While thanking the group for having you is a nice gesture, it’s not an ending that will win an Emmy.

If possible, save a particular pithy, thought-provoking quote to leave with the audience. Or wow them with your best joke. If you don’t have material that will tickle their funny bone or tug at their heart strings, at least leave your audience with a summary of the main points of your speech, presented in a quick 3-point fashion. Remember the adage, “Tell them what you’ll tell them, tell them, and then them what you told them.”

Don’t wind up any speech without asking for the order. Hand out a brochure or pass out information on steps they can take to help overcome a problem or resolve a pressing issue. Then summarize verbally what they can do about a certain problem in an easy-to-follow 3or 4-step plan.

No matter how you end, be sure to end on time. Use Henry’s timer idea, take your watch off to remind yourself of the time limit, or ask the program chairperson or individual who hired you to stand when your time has run out Then, in less than 2 minutes, wind up. Even if you have 10 minutes more of material, it’s better to leave the audience begging for more than to run on and make attendees excuse themselves while you are talking. Remember, how can they miss you when you won’t go away?

Prepare for the dreaded questionand-answer session by planting a question or two in the audience ahead of time.

workshop

Remember, few people like to go first, and most are certain that their questions will sound simple and that they shouldn’t insult you and the others in the audience by asking. Once people start asking questions, repeat the question so that all can hear. If you don’t know the answer, don’t punt. Simply say you don’t know.

And don’t leave the seminar or speech site without your evaluations. These are invaluable tools for improving your presentation. Two questions beyond the obvious to consider are as follows:

1. What was the one point of value you gained from the workshop?

2. What will you do with the information? How can you use it?

Take the answers to the survey to heart, but don’t be heartbroken if you don’t always get rave reviews. Evaluate the opinions and don’t look back, only ahead.

Before members of the audience leave, make sure each one of them has a brochure or a telephone index card that includes a few lines about your business and speech or seminar topics you offer. If they liked what you had to say, the chances of a referral are good if you make it easy for them to remember who you are.

YOUR INVICTA WHOLESALER

Invicta is a fast growing watch brand, and is considered by collectors and enthusiasts alike to be a market leader in horological innovation and creativity. The long held belief that supremely crafted timepieces can be offered for a modest sums is the founding principle of Invicta.

Explore an impressive selection of timepieces spanning 30 diverse collections, and a wide use of exotic materials such as: meteorite, abalone, titanium, and carbon fiber. Invicta also offers collections from the worlds of Disney, Marvel, DC Comics, Star Wars, and the NFL.

They Know Who Y You A Are, But Do You Know Who They Are?

Everyone who has attended your class, seminar, or speech knows who you are, and they know your background and how to get in touch with you from the class catalog or seminar brochure, your introduction, and handouts. Speaking opportunities give you a chance to put your name in front of small intimate groups and large impersonal audiences. But no matter what the size, it’s easy for a speaker to walk away and not know the name of one person who heard him or her speak.

If you teach a class, keep a copy of the class roster that includes students’ names and addresses. Then, stay in touch with those students

at least once a year, either by sending handouts you think might be interesting or by holding a reunion. Each year, Henry invites a researcher to speak at his marketing class. At the end of the semester, he sends all of his former students an invitation to a potluck and update lecture by the researcher. The reunion gives former students a chance to network with others in the field, and it keeps Henry’s name in front of an ever-growing number of people who may bring business to him.

If you’re giving an hour-long speech at a luncheon or dinner meeting, you can get the names of attendees by having a drawing for a book that you’ve written or a tape that you’ve produced.

Collect their business cards for a drawing. A week or two later, send each attendee a handout related to the speech topic and accompanied by a personal “FYI” note. Henry earned a million-dollar account from a former student with whom he kept in touch in just this way.

• name, address, and phone number of the organization

• name and phone number of the contact person

• type of meeting

• title of presentation

• number of attendees

• type of attendees

• room set-up

When your speech or class has concluded, write down pertinent information that will help you with future presentations to the same group. Lee S. Shapiro, J.D., is nationally known as the “Hugging” Judge and for his powerful talks on human relations. After each presentation, Shapiro fills out an After-Presentation Reference Sheet that includes:

• things to prepare for next time

• distance from airport

When a company or organization asks Shapiro for an encore, he’s prepared, and he ensures that his repeat performances live up to and even surpass his initial presentation.

CASTELA BY MATOUK

F O R U M WO R K S H O P

To learn more about how the pros do it, consider attending events sponsored by the National Speakers Association (NSA) or joining this group of over 3,000 members. Many cities offer local NSA chapters, and the association holds a number of national conventions each year.

TOP SELF-MARKETING SECRETS Pointers for the Platform

1. Practice makes perfect. Put yourself in front of a live audience of friends to get honest feedback about your information and speaking style.

2. Begin by giving talks to college classes and teaching for university extended studies programs.

3. Tie in to your local chamber of commerce.

4. Sponsor your own seminar.

5. Distribute a speakers’ bureau brochure to professional organizations and corporations.

6. Research the audience to ensure that your talk meets their needs.

7. Create an opening act that sizzles.

8. Use fill-in-the-blanks handouts and other visual aids such as slides, overhead transparencies, and videos to keep the audience awake.

9. Reward participation to involve the audience.

10. Stop talking when the buzzer sounds.

11. Get business cards or class rosters for follow-up marketing.

12. Distribute speaker evaluations.

13. Charge for your talent when appropriate.

It’s B Be tter To Give So You’ll Rece ive

Faith and Hope Are Nice, But Charity Gets Coverage

Hitching your wagon to a worthy cause lets you give back to the community that supports you. It will also earn you a reputation as a businessperson who cares about more than the bottom line. Although few go into a pro bono endeavor (pro bono publico – for the good of the public) for the sole purpose of building clientele, when pressed, many businesspeople agree that it is a way to expand contacts, to earn referrals, and to broaden your experience without the self-serving hype of blatant marketing approaches.

Kevin Alverson, national anesthesiology account manager for Northern Health Systems, Inc. joined with close friend Kyle Eldred to create Critical Mass, a nonprofit group of young professionals who get together on a regular basis to organize fundraisers for a local children’s charity “We had a group of friends who would attend. One day while walking down the beach, Kyle and I decided that if we could get half of that crowd to attend a $75-a-plate black-tie affair, we could donate a sizable sum to a community group and take our party to another level ”

F O R U M WO R K S H O P

The first year, the twosome approached the Big Brothers and Big Sisters organizations. “We told them that all they had to do was let us use their name and we would donate the proceeds to them,” explained Alverson. “Many board members were familiar with my work as a Big Brother, but they still put us through an hour of questioning. They were suspicious at first as to why two young professionals on the fast track would do something out of the ordinary like this. We convinced them that a smile on a child’s face was what we were looking for ”

The Big Brothers organization made Alverson and Eldred sign a contract holding the two personally responsible for the event They rallied together with 14 other

Pittsburgh professionals and raised $12,000 for the Make a Wish Foundation, and the 3rd year another $12,000 for Special Olympics.

In addition to helping kids in the community, Kevin’s big heart has helped him to gain professionally and personally. “I’ve made a lot of contacts including ex-Steelers Lynn Swan and Franco Harris,” says Alverson. “I’ve also met the local hosts of ‘PM Magazine,’ who have, in turn, invited us to some big fund-raisers where we’ve met the mayor and other politically involved people.”

Workwise, write-ups in his corporation’s newsletter about the efforts of Critical Mass helped him earn a favorable reputation among people in site offices whom he had never met

F O R U M WO R K S H O P

“When I went to a national sales convention and met a man who recognized me from a newsletter article, he immediately perceived me not only as a good sales rep, but as someone who can step back from work and be successful in other endeavors.”

Alverson also credits landing a new job to his charity work. “The president of the company at which I’m now working was at the second black and white ball we threw and approached me to talk about this job. The organization, caliber, and outcome of the event impressed him. When I landed the job, he authorized a contract that states that I am allowed unlimited ‘comp’ time to devote to Critical Mass. He takes pride in what I do. And since I’m his employee, he knows that he is himself contributing to the success of the event.”

Today, Critical Mass is 35 members strong. Charities now approach it to be considered the recipient of their annual fund-raising parties. “Once you are involved in a charity, you realize that no matter how rough a day you have, there is always someone having a worse time. It’s a great way to channel energies and a phenomenal way to help you grow.”

Kevin gives one caveat: “Don’t go into charity work to use it as a resume filler. You’ll stand out like a sore thumb and you won’t get anything out of it. Do it for selfgrowth and to give of yourself, and you’ll gain the world.”

Payroll & Tax Services for Businesses of All Sizes

Preview® Payroll Application • gives you the freedom to manage your payroll in-house on your company’s PC or network, or through the Internet.

Paychex Online Payroll®

• allows you to submit data directly to your Payroll Specialist by phone or fax. Or submit and manage your employee information online.

Paychex Payroll Fulfillment Services

• , a tool for large businesses that manage payroll processing internally, Paychex offers supportive ancillary services.

TaxPay® • , a payroll tax administration service calculates and pays your federal and state taxes through payroll integration.

Tax Credit Services

• allows your company to maximize potential location- and job-based tax credits that can result in significant savings for your business.

James B. Strenski, Public Relations Society of America fellow, chairman of Public Communications Inc., with offices in Chicago, Miami, and Tampa, echoes the sentiment. James donates 20% of his time to pro bono initiatives. “Our company feels strongly that we owe the community and the professions we are a part of a certain amount of our time,” he says. “Our attitude is much like the character in The Magnificent Obsession – we take whatever chance we have to do something for someone else, without asking for anything in return.”

Strenski has risen through the ranks of his professional organization, having held national offices for the society and serving for 2 years as chair of the Public Service Committee. “The payback has been meeting colleagues who operate public relations firms throughout the

USA, Canada, and even offshore,” he says. “They have become good friends, as well as sources of business referrals. Our association also gave rise to the formation of the Worldcom Group, Inc., a partnership organization of corporate financial marketing and institutional communication public relations agencies to share resources as well as referrals.”

When Strenski chaired the marketing committee of Tampa Downtown Partnership, a private businessperson’s group dedicated to economic development of downtown Tampa, he expected to give time and direction. The group’s efforts resulted in the city’s providing funding for marketing, and Strenski’s firm was selected because of its volunteer leadership.

It’s no secret that volunteerism gives as much to the person who donates the time, money, and energy as it does to the recipient. So while you don’t go into pro bono work looking to get something out of it, there is nothing deceptive about volunteering to help promote or support a venture that also gives your business or product notoriety. You can bet that celebrities who sing for Farm Aid or stand up to fight against environmental concerns benefit from the goodwill of their names’ association with the cause.

Earn V Vis ibility As a B Board M embe r

One of the most direct ways to meet key industry leaders is to sit on a board of directors of a community-based organization. A seat on a board of directors is a position of prestige you

have to earn. But when your hard work and expertise precede you, you will begin to be asked to sit on boards to direct the efforts of philanthropic or nonprofit organizations. Everything you’ve done to date – speaking, writing, volunteering – creates the momentum of compounding interest until suddenly, after years of investing, the payback is big.

F O R U M WO R K S H O P

Dick Daniels and Jack Berkman, partners in Berkman & Daniels, a San Diego marketingcommunications firm, have given their time serving on the boards of the San Diego Symphony Association, the San Diego Repertory Theater, the San Diego Press Club, the Century Club, the Reuben H. Fleet Space & Science Foundation, the San Diego-Imperial County Chapter of the March of Dimes Birth Defects Foundation, and the Foundation’s National Council of Volunteers.

“This pro bono work keeps us directly in touch with many of the important publics our clients must deal with,” says Berkman. “And it gives us a good feeling, in terms of service to the community in which our business operates.”

But don’t think you have to wait patiently to be asked to join a board. Many organizations welcome volunteers for these positions. The American Cancer Society, for example, has numerous boards with positions just waiting for qualified, industrious individuals. Whether it’s a graphic artist, marketing representative, or printer who volunteers for the marketing representative, or printer who volunteers for the marketing communications board or a banker, stockbroker, or attorney who is available for the planned-giving board, there are opportunities just right for you if you let your desires be known.

Every step you take to become more visible is one step closer to the next contact and the next deal. Some days you may wonder why you’re leaving work early for yet another meeting or why you’re taking time to raise money for a charity when your own business seems like a philanthropic effort. But tomorrow the payoff will come via a person who knew a person who recommended you. Actual clients or customers may not know exactly why they came to you or how they got your name, but they will know that they have heard of you and that everyone they asked for a referral listed your name among the top. All of the effort, all of the visibility, and all of the selfless giving comes back in spades. (It’s like tithing. Once you make the commitment to give, you somehow “find” the resources. And the more you give, the more you receive.)

If You Give It Anyway, Will You Get I It Back?

You’re asked to do a freebie. You don’t have the time. You are reluctant to spend potentially billable hours without being paid. Should you carve time out of nights & weekends to do nonprofit work? Most likely the answer is yes, if:

• The person who is asking is important to you.

• You are not being taken advantage of.

• Your name will get out among others who could be potential clients.

• You’ll have an opportunity to meet key contacts.

Discover Top Dropshipping Suppliers of Original USA/EU Products

Connect

Fulfill your orders with one click. Doba’s SPROCKET can easily sync with your online store and all orders automatically appear in your app. Spocket is integrated with Shopify, BigCommerce, Wix, and WooCommerce.

Discover

With 80% of our dropshipping

based in the US or Europe, shipping is quick, reliable, and effortless.

Try

F O R U M WO R K S H O P

• You want to prove your talents & capabilities to the organization to earn future business.

• You simply get a warm, fuzzy feeling by doing it.

• It will be a worthwhile addition to your resume or portfolio.

• Your present clients & customers won’t suffer from lack of attention.

When coauthor Diane donated close to 50 hours writing a public relations plan and press kit that included fact sheets, bios, and news releases for the first San Diego Women’s Business Grant, she knew the contacts with top female entrepreneurs would be beneficial. But when, she wondered, would she be able to point to positive cash flow as a direct result of the effort? Two days after the grant luncheon, a woman who had seen her name and photo in

the event program and had seen Diane stand up during introductions, called for an appointment. The next month, Diane’s firm began providing public relations services for the woman’s company.

For 4 years Jeff Harper, president of Capitol Communications and vice president of the Canzeri Company, a full-service public relations and events firm in Washington, D.C., donated his services to coordinate and produce the Nancy Reagan Annual Tennis Tournament for the “Just Say No” campaign.

GROW YOUR SILVER JEWELRY BUSINESS

by Leveraging The Manufacturing Capabilities of Guang Dong China

1. We are the #1 silver jewelry wholesale supplier from China.

2. We sell only jewelry in solid 925 sterling silver, with or without gold/rhodium plating.

3. You are purchasing from the source. Our clients are not only retail stores but also distributors and manufacturers.

4. Start from Panyu Guangzhou, 1994, more than 25 years’ silver jewelry supply/manufacture/ wholesale experience.

5. 100 new arrivals every week.

6. 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed: 60 days no questions asked returns.

“Being associated with that event was without a doubt a good marketing tool for us,” says Harper. “Working with the Reagans for 4 years certainly helped build our credibility when pitching other accounts. You have to be visible in Washington. And the more you are out there

pro bono or not – the greater the potential for business.”

After the Reagans left town, Harper became involved in putting together the “Dan Quayle Tennis Challenge” to benefit the Leukemia Society, a corporate sponsor-driven event. “How an effort will translate into business later on is hard to tell; but those who attend always want to know who did what,” says Harper. “We do a lot of volunteer work because we believe we

should. If we’re lucky, we can make some new contacts, and inevitably there is a possible spinoff for the agency.”

But Harper does caution enthusiastic volunteers, “Don’t forget which side your bread is buttered on. It doesn’t behoove you to donate an unrealistic amount of time to charity if your paying customers don’t get the attention they expect.” Take volunteer positions seriously, but don’t overcommit.

Banking on the Ripple Effect

Leigh Steinberg, one of the country’s most successful sports agents, makes sure that he donates money and time to each one of his clients’ charity causes.

F O R U M WO R K S H O P

Part of his goal in doing so is to help undo the typical stereotype of the sports agent as a sleazy salesman. In the May 1989 issue of Continental Profiles, author Neil Choen quoted Steinberg as saying,” ... (Athletes) really need to developing-term relationships in a city or a community that will transcend that short sports career. So the responsible thing to do also has opportunities for them. They’re meeting businessmen and other people across the community, and when their careers end, those relationships are there in terms of second-career opportunities.”

It’s the spin-off and ripple effect of involvement in charitable causes that Steinberg impresses upon his clients as being important. Steinberg helped to develop former San Diego Charger Rolf Benirschke’s “Kicks for Critters,” in which the field goal kicker would donate money to

the San Diego Zoo’s fund for endangered species every time he made a field goal. The football player then put together a board of directors of leading figures in local politics, business, and the media to support a campaign that asked the public to match Benirschke’s pledges at any level – from a nickel to a dollar per field goal. The program raised more than $1 million for the fund and immeasurably elevated Benirschke’s status and prestige in the community and the nation.

Is I It Wor th T rading S Service s?

Bartering your services won’t cover the overhead, but it might earn new business that can lead to fully paid accounts.

An easy and convenient way for consumers to be connected with a personal loan through our network of lenders and the other third-party lender networks we use. Our online service can help you to get a loan of between $1,000 and $35,000.

Don’t shy away from a trade, especially if it gives you the opportunity to get experience in a new field, to receive special recognition, or to meet movers and shakers.

When George Chanos approached Diane and asked her company to provide public relations services in exchange for sweat equity in his new board game, Notables Quotables, the offer intrigues her. Chanos dangles the success that Trivial Pursuit sweat equity partners enjoyed in front of her like a diamond carat.

But Diane knew she couldn’t put 2 or 3 account executives on the job with only a promise of future income. Owning a share of a potentially big-selling game was exciting. After all, Trivial

Pursuit earned $6.5 million in the first year –that’s more than it would cost to buy Eastern Airlines. After much discussion, Diane and George came to an agreement. The Gage Group would cut its hourly fee in half when it worked on the game project, receiving 50% of its earnings in cash. The other 50% would go toward buying shares of the game.

In the meantime, The Gage Group, which up to this time had primarily promoted services, gained experience it didn’t have publicizing a consumer product. It made key media contacts with reporters who became excited about the local invention, and it earned the public relations company credibility promoting a new product In turn, Chanos got top-notch public relations services for half the price.

Another way to barter services and to get free ad space is to learn of upcoming trade fairs, conferences, seminars, and other special events at which you would like to be represented. There may be a service you can provide the event planners in exchange for the opportunity to get in front of the audience either as a guest speaker or as a vendor displaying your product or touting your services. You don’t always have to pay for self-promotion in cold hard cash.

Sponsorships G Gain Y You a Diffe rent Kind of Visibility

Sponsoring a charity event to earn visibility is something the big guys have done

for years. Whether it’s a golf or tennis tournament, 10K run or marathon, art exhibition, or wine-tasting party, charitable causes are always looking for business sponsors.

Tying your name in with a particular event or cause can get your name out to new audiences in a non-serving way. Jack-in-the-Box restaurants, owned by Food Maker, Inc. created a “Put the Bite on Literacy” campaign in which it asked people to bring in used books to its restaurants. When customers complied, they’d receive a discount coupon on a particular food item. Jack-in the Box then held a book sale and auction at one of its stores, donating proceeds to the Council on Literacy. Of course, the food chain made free Jack-in the Box food available at the event to win more converts.

F O R U M WO R K S H O P

Reebok International has won many hearts and feet with its Human Rights Awards For several years it has recognized individuals who have worked for human rights at an annual presentation. The commitment has been expensive, but it has raised the company’s profile and earned numerous admirers and media coverage that can’t be bought. It’s estimated that more than 570 million U.S. consumers read about the second award ceremony, which featured rock star Sting and ex-president Jimmy Carter as speakers and gave awards to Chinese students, tribal peoples of the Malaysian rain forests, relatives of the “disappeared” in Argentina, and Americans who helped the plight of Native Americans. USA Today, the Washington Post, MTV, “Entertainment Tonight,” CNN, and all major footwear magazines covered the event. A video news release (a prepackaged

taped story on the event) aired on 62 stations nationwide, capturing more than 1.6 million viewers. Charity can pay big dividends.

You don’t have to be a mega-corporation to help others and to earn recognition for it. The San Diego Chapter of the American Marketing Association won hearts when it created a Community Services Committee to provide professional marketing guidance to area nonprofit organizations. The first year it named the Women’s Resource Center as beneficiary; it helped design a logo and promotional materials for its new family shelter, as well as communication pieces for fund-raising events. The association contributed its talent and earned local visibility for its generosity.

F O R U M WO R K S H O P

Ask yourself what resources you can offer to a community group or organization. Here are a few examples:

• A new restaurant throws a grand-opening party with all proceeds benefiting a hospital auxiliary.

• A clothing boutique offers the latest styles for a fashion show fund-raiser.

• A bookstore sponsors a book-signing party to raise money for a special-interest group.

• Attorneys offer a day of free telephone legal counseling for a law school fund-raiser.

• An image consultant agrees to provide free holiday hair & makeup services for cancer patients at a local hospital.

• A physician group volunteers time at a community health fair.

Don’t keep your benevolence to yourself. If you’re doing something worthwhile, let your customers, clients, and potential supporters know. If you’re a co-sponsor of an event, be sure that your logo gets on the program or entry form. Ask for signage at the event or a free booth where you can display your wares or give away samples.

DROPSHIP CLOTHING

Coats, vests, jackets, pants, shirts, gloves, leather apparels, headwear, belts, hats, dresses, nightgown, jeans, sunglasses, and more.

DROPSHIP ELECTRONICS

GPS, Cameras, Calculators, Dvd players, Home theater, Stereo systems, flat screen, LCD, metal detectors, Tablets, speakers, remotes, etc.

DROPSHIP PET SUPPLIES

Dogs and Cats products, Bird products, Reptile products, Fish products, Small animal products, Aquariums, Grooming products, etc.

DROPSHIP BABY ITEMS

Baby clothing, baby food, diapers, vitamins, sleeper, baby safety, baby lotion, infant gift sets and even more baby products.

DROPSHIP BATH/BEDDING

Bed sheets, bed duvet, bed comforters, bedding sets, towels, robes, pillows, feminine care, soaps, body care, sponges, etc.

DROPSHIP COMPUTERS

Webcams, video & sound cards, desktops, hard drives, flash media, modems, monitors, notebooks, software, games, etc.

DROPSHIP CELLULAR ACCESSORIES

Phone holders, hands-free car kits, accessories for Nokia, Bluetooth, Ericson, Samsung, Sprint, Blackberry, Tmobile, etc.

DROPSHIP EXERCISE EQUIPMENT

Fitness health products, personal care, exercise and physical therapy products, protein powders, vitamins, electrolytes, muscle growth.jeans, sunglasses, and more.

DROPSHIP GARDEN DECOR

Patio headers, lawn and gardening products, benchstones, bird feeders, pond accessories, water fountains, and many more.

DROPSHIP GIFTS

Wallets, pen holders, keychains, zippo lighters, banks, card holders, gift baskets, and more great gift ideas.

DROPSHIP GROCERIES

Nutritional products, baking, beverages, athletic & Energy, pet foods, condiments, cereal and crackers, and many more food related products.

DROPSHIP HEALTH & BEAUTY AIDS

Makeup, skincare, medicinal creams, aromatherapy, grooming products, manicure sets, essential oils, and more beauty products.

DROPSHIP JEWELRY

Gold, rose gold, silver, stones, rings, necklaces, pendants, brooches, chains, cuff links, bracelets, earrings, piercing jewelry and more.

F O R U M WO R K S H O P

Paid advertising touting your involvement can be a wise investment of your dollars. General Dynamics, an aerospace giant, took out a fullpage magazine ad describing a program it sponsors that involves women prisoners in a work program to revitalize a neighborhood. The women learn new skills – carpentry, dry wall hanging, roofing – and gain confidence. The community gets high-quality, affordable housing. General Dynamics gets its name and tag line – “General Dynamics, a Strong Company for a Strong Country” – in front of readers and it positions itself as a valuable community citizen.

Likewise, Ford Motor Company bought a full-page to advertise the Ford Motor Company Collection at the

Metropolitan Museum of Art. Prominent at the bottom of the ad is the Ford logo and tag line, “Ford Motor Company takes you farther than ever before.”

MasterCard also advertised its “Choose to Make a Difference” program in which it offered consumers the choice of a charitable cause to which MasterCard would donate money. Every time a consumer used his or her card or bought MasterCard Travelers Cheques in a certain time frame, the company would make a contribution to the specified fund. The ad included a “ballot” that the customer filled out and sent in indicating his or her choice of 1 of 6 charities. Wouldn’t you pull out that charge card over another if you knew you could be making a charitable contribution at the same time? That’s what MasterCard was banking on.

Grabbing M Media A Attention With Free bies

Charity does get coverage, especially when what you do is offbeat, whimsical, touching, or involves animals or children. As Christmas 1990 approached and American soldiers were in the midst of Operation Desert Shield, a postal service company offered to send packages to the Middle East at no charge. It received a week of free media exposure & immeasurable goodwill. That kind of gift isn’t fast forgotten.

Shortly after Halloween, one business collected pumpkins that would otherwise rot and donated them to a zoo for

animals to eat. The report, picked up on the wire service, spread throughout the country as a fun day-after Halloween story.

Apple Computers made an indelible mark on American homes when it donated computers to schools throughout the nation. While the effort was no doubt generous, you can bet Apple liked the fact that school kids everywhere were learning computer skills on its hardware and becoming entrenched in the Apple system.

Sometimes, the more offbeat your effort, the better chance of coverage A public-relationsadvertising man, Gary Beals, earned his company recognition when he became administrator of the newly revived San Diego Hell on Earth Club.

Ladies Fascinating Filigree Bracelet with Diamond Cut Hearts

F O R U M WO R K S H O P

This tongue-in-cheek venture alerted potential newcomers to the city’s pitfalls – earthquakes, smog, astronomical real estate prices, and the like – in the hope that they wouldn’t move to the area. Three large photos of Beals in action promoting the club and an accompanying story mentioned Gary’s advertising agency, and he was also interviewed on National Public Radio, which showed listeners that he has a way of earning media coverage.

Increas ing Media Opportunities

An added bonus of working for a nonprofit organization is that you’ll get media coverage you never would otherwise. While your venture on its own may be too commercial, when

you tie in with a charity, your name will appear in public service announcements (PSAs) and other blurbs about the event.

Radio and television PSAs are scarcer and scarcer, but if your event is truly worthwhile and benefits a charity, your chances for “free” air time are greater. Be sure to send PSAs to radio stations at least 2 weeks prior to the time you want coverage to begin. Thus, if you’d like mention on the air for the 2 weeks prior to the event, the PSA needs to be at the station a month ahead of time.

Send written, not taped PSAs to radio so that the disk jockeys can read them over the air. Type the PSAs one to a page and time them for 10, 20, or 30 seconds. Using a 65-space line, 10 seconds is 2 1/2 lines. Time yourself reading the PSA at a moderate pace and shorten it until you’re on the money.

Television stations also accept PSAs but use them much less frequently than they did before the FCC bowed out of becoming a watchdog of public programming in the late 1970s. One of the best ways to get the attention of a television station is to get a station reporter or anchor to take part in your event. If a television personality is the honorary chairperson or emcee for the event, the TV station will more likely tape a PSA using its on-air talent. It makes the station

look good in the eyes of the community, and it gets its name out in a positive way to its audience.

To recruit a television personality, either write a letter to the person or contact the station’s public affairs department. Be very clear about what will be expected of the person, and don’t demand too much. Lending his or her name and making opening remarks or a quick speech is all that should be expected. If possible, send background information about the event so that the television celebrity gets a feel for how it benefits the charity or community.

forumworkshop

Society editors at newspapers are on the lookout to cover events with pizazz. If you’re hosting a party, be sure to send the media special invitations, and do it as far in advance as possible, since their calendars get booked quickly.

Publicize your nonprofit event by sending calendar items to the local newspapers and magazines as well. If possible, give monthly periodicals a 3-month lead time, weeklies a month, and dailies at least 2 weeks. If your name can be tagged onto the name of the event, all the better. You’ll be mentioned every time an item is run. If not, realize that gaining publicity for the event eventually works in your favor because the more people who attend, the more who will become familiar with your services.

No matter how you donate your services to charity, be a cheerful giver. And don’t shortchange yourself or the philanthropic effort by doing things halfway because you’re not getting paid. You can win referrals if you first win hearts. Give it your all or don’t give at all.

Our next article will review “Top Self-Marketing Secrets; Give & You’ll Receive” and a new topic: How to Win Friends & Influence Referrals: Love Letters Straight from the Start

continued in next issue ...

FREE WHOLESALE APP FOR SMART PHONES!

Surplus & Liquidation Business

Professional liquidator reveals how to nd, buy, sell and broker surplus goods in his best-selling book HIDDEN WEALTH

Everything you need to know and succeed in this high-profit business is right here. Work full-time or part-time, even from your own home.

• Surplus Business Equipment

• Failed Business Inventories

• Manufacturers Mistakes

• Discontinued Inventories

• Seized Merchandise

• Salvaged Goods

• Bankruptcies & Closeouts

This is a practical hands-on training guide to starting your business with little or no money. Today there are more opportunities than ever to succeed in this industry when you have the right resources. Nothing is held back – the author is a retired liquidator who is now sharing his well-protected secrets to help others succeed.

Limited supply of copies of this 196 page will be sold at special price of $39.95 on rst-come basis. Order today and start your new business tomorrow!

+ $7.00 ship = $4695

SMART

Excellent

Trade MaGaZINeS

Swap Meet

This exciting monthly magazine connects flea market vendors with wholesalers across the United States who specialize in supplying merchandise and services to flea marketers and swap meeters. It provides excellent resources for merchandise and each issue contains a bonus Directory of Flea Markets throughout the United States, listed by state order and includes full addresses, days of operation, and details of each market.

Order No. SM-S ...Swap Sample ...$10.00

Retailers Forum

Retailers Forum was established out of the need for product sources among small retail merchandisers. Each month, Forum’s advertising pages feature merchandise offerings from the country’s !eading wholesalers, manufacturers, and jobbers. Don’t confuse this magazine with some of the “opportunitytype” publications offering products that are outdated and way over-priced. These are real rock-bottom wholesalers offering prices like Videos at $1.25

A long-time leader in the closeout industry, this monthly newspaper brings you the BEST closeouts and overruns on the market. By using this powerful buying tool, every month, you will gain access to hundreds of new suppliers who offer the finest selection of closeout (below wholesale) merchandise available anywhere!

Find Apparel, HBA and Cosmetics, Electronics, Home and Houseware, Fragrances, Jewelry, Sporting Goods, Tools, Toys, Videos and DVDs, and more. For larger discounts, many dealers sell pallet truckloads that will make you even more profits.

• Rings at $0.25/ea. Buy where the retailing giants buy!The advertisers are professionals in theirfields, offering you variety, service, monthly specials, closeout specials, and the lowest prices available. Best of all, they will ship UPS no matter where in the United States your business is located. Minimum orders are as low as $50.00 with many wholesalers. Many advertisers offer further reduced rates for bulk buying at enormous savings to you.

• Sunglasses at $3.00/dz

Order No. RF-S - Sample Copy ...$10.00

FREE 1 YEAR SUBSCRIPTION AVAILABLE AT www.WholesaleSources.com

ADVERTISING SPACE AVAILABLE

SoloMayoreo

USA Closeout Directory

Now, more than ever, it is essential for the success of your merchandising business to buy goods at the lowest prices possible. Our bestselling USA Closeout Directo-ry shows you how and most importantly, WHERE. Hundreds of closeout dealers specializing in selling goods o en priced as low as 10¢ on the dollar are listed. Re-tailers, ea marketers, home party plan sellers ...anyone who sells merchandise needs this directory! Clothing • Electronics • Jewelry • Toys • Watches • More!

Order No. 4Closeout Directory - $29.95

Dollar Store Merchandise Guide

e most complete directory of wholesalers and manufacturers in the USA specializing in dollar store merchandise. Hundreds of companies are listed with complete contact information, including the type of products they sell. If you have a dollar store, or are planning to open one, this new directory is a must!

Order No. DSM • Dollar Store

$29.95

Toy Importers & Wholesalers

is is the de nitive guide for nding toy suppliers. Features over 156 pages of listings of both importers and manufacturers. Included are names, addresses, phone and fax numbers as well as company websites and e-mail addresses and descriptions of lines carried.

Order No. TOY $29.95

Directory of Smoke Shops

Our EXCEL Directory contains over 7,000 Smoke Shops/Head Shops in the U.S. It includes key buyer’s names, personal e-mails and phone numbers. is directory is emailed to you in Excel format and is updated regularly.

DIRECTORY INCLUDES:

• 7,000 Smoke Shops/Head Shops

• Phone Numbers

• Over 60% Have Personal E-Mails

• U.S and Canada

• Company Addresses

Order No. SSDB (Excel) $399.00

Independent Sales Rep. Directory

e Independent Apparel Representatives and Multi-line Showrooms directory includes information on over 1,000 independent sale agents and multi-line across the USA. ese agents and showrooms are critical to merchandisers and manufacturers looking to connect with retailers to introduce their lines into the retail space. Includes valuable information such as market focus, price points, territories served, number of locations, rep type, and speci c brands canied. In addition each record includes address, phone number, key contacts, website address, and e-mail address. Arranged geographically, also includes an alphabetical index, a brand index, and a rep/contact index. Available in printed book format or Excel.

Order No. SGREP-B Printed Book $359.00

Order No. SGREP-E Excel emailed to you $499.00

1-800-635-7654

Wholesale Sources

How to Find, Sell and Broker Surplus and Liquidated Goods Jam-packed with 1000’s of wholesale sources across the USA

Imagine a book putting 1000’s of wholesalers at your fingertips! This is the most accurate and useful resource guide you’ll ever own and refer to daily!

• Apparel • Electronics • Fragrances • General goods • Gifts • Housewares • Leather • Jewelry • Novelties • Sunglasses • Watches • Toys and more!

No. W1 Wholesale Sources $29.95

Auction Directory

This is THE definitive guide to auctions! It not only tells you WHERE all the auctions are (all 50 states) but also HOW to participate in the auction process. Cash in on all government auctions, housing auctions, jewelry, cars, boats and more. Up-to-date information gives you names, addresses and phone numbers! And, unlike other auction websites or programs that require you to purchase updates or subscribe to monthly or weekly pay-per-listing services, once you have this book - You need to buy nothing else! It’s an incredible book you can use minutes after you receive it. Change your life today. Buy a home, car, or indulge in jewelry.

Order No. AUC- Auction Directory - $39.95

Hobby & Craft Suppliers Guide

The crafts industry is one of the hottest-growing segments in the marketplace today. Scrap-booking, painting, needle-crafts and sewing are hobbies that are sweeping the nation. We have compiled the ultimate directory of wholesale suppliers furnishing materials for this huge industry.

• Art Materials • Baskets • Beads/ Trim

Hidden Wealth

With this authoritive Directory, you will learn to turn pennies into dollars and get goods dirt cheap ...even free! Written by a retired liquidator, the author shares his well protected secrets and workings of this extremely profitable industry. L earn why those in the business have kept it confidential. You can now have a piece of it.

Discover the proven techniques and see why there is no better information anywhere at any price. Everything you need to succeed in this high profit business is right here. Work full/part time from home!

Order No. 1-88422-24-2 Hidden Wealth $39.95

Jewelry Wholesalers & Manufacturers

This exquisite directory will bring the world’s finest jewelers directly to you! Featuring fine jewelry of all types including:

• Beads • Diamonds • Gemstones • Gold

• Silver • Much More! The suppliers list their names, addresses, websites and specialties.

All feature high-end quality jewelry that is sold wholesale for resale. You would have to travel the world over to view the thousands of suppliers listed in this brand new directory. If you are in the jewelry business and looking for new, high quality suppliers, you must order this directory!

Order No. FJ $29.95

Holiday Merchandise Wholesalers & Manufacturers

• Ceramics

• Holiday

• Dolls

• Fabrics

• Floral

• Paint

• More!

Order No. AC $29.95

Introducing our newest directory that puts the country’s largest suppliers of holiday merchandise at your fingertips. Seasonal merchandise is a mainstay of the industry, but up until now it was hard to locate the thousands of suppliers scattered across the country. We have ended your searching with one directory which includes all types of wholesale merchandise: • Bows

• Candles • Cards • Costumes • More

Order No. HM $29.95

Wholesale Gift Guide

A Great resource to locate higher end decorative merchandise. This gigantic 400 page guide is the definitive resource guide to finding suppliers for gift products. Listed by category, over 4,000 leading wholesalers and manufacturers servicing the gift industry are included.

•Accessories

•Collectibles

•Floral

• Gifts

• Home/House

You’ll refer to this on a daily basis to find new suppliers for products.

Order No. GG Gift Guide $39.95

USA Mail Order Catalogs

New for this year is a compilation of BOTH consumer mail order catalogs in addition to business-to-business catalogs in one huge volume! Part one of this incredible collection of mail order catalogs provides the most comprehensive look at the consumer catalog in the industry available anywhere. Over 7,000 consumer catalog companies are listed under 44 various product chapters from Animals to Toys and Games. Catalog size, number of catalogs mailed, sales volume and key executive names are provided for ease in marketing your products to these catalogs.

The second part of this directory provides details on suppliers of everything from computers to laboratory supplies; office products to office design; marketing resources to safety equipment. Just about every kind of product or service that a business needs to operate is covered.

Order No. 159237-156-6

1,900 pages $450.00

BUCKS FOR BLING

Annual Guide to the Licensing World Accessories Sourcing Directory

Here is an incredible Directory that guides you through the world of Licensed prod-uct merchandising. Need to know who owns a license? Who to contact to distrib-ute a licensed product? This book has all the answers and covers the entire world! Licensors: Listing of companies that are the agents and license holders. These are the sources that you would apply to if you wish to obtain a license to manufacture

merchandise. Licensees listed here you will find the companies who distribute licensed merchandise. Full listings include categories of merchandise each company handles. Contact these companies to buy the licensed merchandise that they have manufactured. The licensed merchandising industry moves billions of dollars of products every year and is one of the fastest growing segments of retailing.

Order No. 321 $249.00

1-800-635-7654

The comprehensive directory provides you with direct sources for the designing and manufacturing of bags, belts, hats, shoes, gloves. You will find the top companies to help you produce your merchandise directly at their factories.

Order No. 121 $150.00

Sourcing For Jewelry Makers Directory

Up-to-date and easy-to-use directory solving your jewelry materials sourcing, production and contracting needs. If you are considering your own line of jewelry items this is a must-have in locating materials and factories to produce it.

Order No. 122 $100.00

How To Save Money on Legal Fees

A poorly chosen lawyer can be the start of an expensive disaster. This book gives you information on: finding the right lawyer, how to save money, saving your lawyer’s time, making use of free and low-cost legal services, bartering to your advantage, keeping accurate records, and understanding lawyers and the legal system.

Order No. 2598 240 pages $12.95

Incorporate Yourself

Incorporating your business is simple and can be done without an attorney…saving you hundreds of dollars. This valuable guide is written to de-mystify the mind boggling details and clarifies all strategies involved in your success and the success of your business.

Order No. 176 Hdcvr $24.95

The Partnership Book

The best way going into business with a friend is to have a solid partnership agreement. This book shows how to write an agreement covering evaluation of partner assets, disputes, buy-outs, expansion, and death of a partner. Problems of getting started and partnership taxation laws are examined.

Order No. 0-87337-141-0 $39.95

How to Protect Your Business From Fraud, Scams & Crime

Protect Yourself From Business Lawsuits

This groundbreaking book offers novela and inexpensive advice on how companies and their employees can use commonsense business tactics to avoid potentially devastating litigation. Learn to avoid the 8 major mistakes that often result in litigation. This book is a must for everyone—from the CEO to the average employee seeking to protect their career.

Order No. 0-68485267-5

223 pages (Hdcvr) $23.95

The Law (in Plain English) for Small Businesses

This latest edition provides access to the most current legal information to keep track of new legal developments and to efficiently handle any legal issues. This book covers the legal basics as well as the complexities of business law today including: licensing, advertising, trademarks and copyrights, expanding markets, business organization, and more.

Order No. -880559-95-1 245 pages $19.95

Handbook of Successful Franchising

Franchising is the best opportunity for new entrepreneurs. Compare on the basis of what you get for your money-training, marketing, start-up costs, long term support, legal rights, financial responsibilities, and marketing evaluation. Company track records, history, units operating, and locations. Includes list of Government funding assistance programs and every business area from food outlets to computer/electronic, to employment agencies.

Order No. 30 520 pages $39.95

This guide protects your business from internal or external fraud, scams and crime. Drawing from the Better Business Bureau, government and law enforcement agencies, the book offers practical, proven guidelines for recognizing the scams, defending your business, and seeking legal recourse if you are victimized! Covers: Office Supply Scheme, Phony Invoice Schemes, Bankruptcy Fraud, Coupon Theft, and Mailorder and Multi-Level.

Order No. 82 204 pages $11.95

“A blockbuster book that tells you almost more than you ought to know”

BUSINESS DIRECTORIES APPAREL

Fabrics, Services, Trims

A complete and updated guide listing over 2,600 nationwide suppliers of all types of domestic and imported fabrics, trims and notions, plus forecast services, swatch design studios and more for the apparel and design industries. Listings include sales manager’s name, price points, minimums, etc. Fabric and trim manufacturers, converters, jobbers and reps are listed. This sourcebook provides you with MATERIALS and sources to make your own goods.

Order No. 0971486735 $135.00

Apparel Contractors (USA Edition)

This up-to-date directory solves your production sourcing and contracting needs in the Americas. The sourcebook includes: sewing, cut-n-sew, and finishing contractors and apparel production services from within the U.S., Canada and South and Central America. All factories are sorted by clothing classification and by U.S. state or by country. This directory will help you put your own designs into production.

Order No. 0971486743 $125.00

Directory of Brand Name Apparel Manufacturers

Updated and easy-to-use directory listing brand-name label manufacturers and importers in the women’s, men’s, children’s and accessory markets. Developed and targeted for store and catalog buyers to shop the apparel and accessory markets easily, there are over 2,800 brand name labels listed, broken down by types of apparel classifications. If you are looking for the SOURCES for brand name goods, this directory is for you.

Order No. 0971486751 $135.00

RN & WPL Encyclopedia

A comprehensive listing of every Registered Number and Wool Product Label ever issued by the Federal Trade Commission to identify all sorts of goods imported, manufactured and/ or sold in the U.S. Over 126,500 records including contact information for more than 31,500 manufacturers, importers and wholesalers of apparel and textile goods. Listings include where available: RN or WPL number, contact names & titles, street addresses, phone & fax numbers, website & e-mail addresses, type of business and product information.

Order No. RN8. Directory $285

Order No. RN8C Directory/CD Combo $475

The Small Design Company's Guide to

Wholesale Fabrics & Trims

Upj-to-date guide created specifically for the smaller design houses and home sewing businesses. Directory lists fabric and trim companies that will sell to businesses that require 0 to 500 yards as a production order. Book lists low-minimum and in-stock fabric suppliers and all their contact information.

Order No. A-106 $65.00

FORUM PUBLISHING CO.

T: 631-754-5000

F: 631-754-0630

Order by phone

1-800-635-7654

You’ll save time ordering by phone instead of mail. Speak with our knowledgeable salespeople who will assist you in placing your credit card order. If you have questions about our products, call Customer Service: (631)754-5000 Mon-Fri 10am-5pm EST.

Credit Card ORDERS: 800/635-7654

FAX ORDERS: 631/754-0630

INQUIRIES: 631/754-5000

Website: www.bizbooks.org

Order by mail

Please complete all information so we can fill your order promptly. We gladly accept checks, money orders and major credit cards. If charging from your credit card, please SIgn the order form where indicated and supply your complete number and expiration date. Sorry we do not accept C.O.D or stamps. Checks must clear bank before orders can be shipped.

Your Name and Address

What Books Would You Like?

E: ForumPublishing@aol.com ALL

Payment Information Goes Here

Order by Fax

631-754-0630

When charging purchases to your credit card, it is easy to send us your completed order form via Fax

Delivery Information

Books and cassette programs will be shipped within 1-5 working days. Allow 6-8 weeks for magazine subscriptions

Order Online

www.bizbooks.org

We download orders hourly and process within 24 hours.

Sales Policy

Books and Cassette programs are sold as information only and are guaranteed as represented in this catalog. All items in this catalog are sold on a non-refundable basis.

SUBTOTAL NYS SALES TAX SHIPPING TOTAL