Manager of WHAT?
Something that separates the SGMA Team Sports and Sports Licensing Shows apart from the average trade show is our Buyer Relations department. Let’s see what this role is all about and what it means to you, the buyer and exhibitor, as I interview… myself!
Q: Can I call you Fish?
A: Sure – most people do…
Q: O.K., Fish… What’s this Buyer Relation thing all about?
A: Simple… Trade shows are meant to bring people together for business, right? Well, we’re here to pair the best exhibitors with the best retailers in the Team Sports and Sports Licensing industry!
Q: And what makes you qualified for this AWESOME task?
A: I’ve been in the retail biz for around 20 years, or so… Grew up in the surf industry as a buyer and then moved into product development, sourcing and design. Been in the “Mom ‘n Pops” as well as BIG BOX when I was with the Naval Exchange System (NEXCOM) - and it doesn’t get much bigger than the US Navy, folks, let me tell ya! I’ve been an exhibitor too with apparel and hard goods so I can see both sides of the table. Oh… and I was an importer with Paramount Parks as a director handling sourcing and production overseas. I’ve pretty much done it all so I can relate to almost anything you can throw at me.
Q: Wow… you are amazing… and so humble…
A: Thanks… To be honest I am simply thrilled to be here and in this position to help. The buyers call and ask us to track down vendors they are trying to work with. The vendors contact me looking for a certain buying group or a segment of retailers or stores they’ve been struggling to meet. I am like a matchmaker for the Sports Industry! We can help you with registration; even put you in touch with our Travel staff for housing in Las Vegas too!
Q: Fantastic! How much to you charge for this service? Sounds pretty expensive…
A: That’s the best part… IT’S FREE!!!
Q: What??? No way!!!
A: Yep… totally FREE. Exhibitors - call me to help find a buyer. Retailers – call me and I’ll personally walk with you to introduce you to a vendor you’ve had trouble contacting. It’s what I do and what we at dmg World Media bring to the table. Any questions, concerns… suggestions… Just call to chat about how amazing this FREE service is!
Q: And where can buyers and exhibitors reach you?
A: E-mail is stevenfisher@dmgworldmedia.com and my phone number is 800-647-7873, extension 7903. Or call me direct at 678-781-7903. Did I mention this service is FREE?
Q: Yes… yes you did… a few times. Thanks so much for your time. You better get back to the phones and e-mail.
A: My pleasure. Yep… pretty busy around here! The show opens on June 9th and runs to the 11th! That’s right around the corner! See you in June!!!
