Things are changing in our industry more rapidly and dramatically than ever. This new era of uncertain economy and explosion of social media and changing attitudes of consumers actually offers retailers a greater opportunity than ever to grow their mattress business.

This session will examine and explore the motivation, mindset, priorities and communication of today’s consumer. Find out why business as usual will accelerate decline, and how capturing consumers’ imagination will expedite success.

In-store events are big news these days. Parties, book signings, trunk shows and charity affairs bring traffic to the store, create excitement and big profits are part of the story. These parties are not just for big spaces: Shops of any kind or size can hold events with the right concept, good planning and a little preparation and planning.

Join Mary Liz Curtin for a fast-paced and fun presentation about event-based marketing. She will give you great ideas for events, teach you how to plan them, discuss what to serve, show you what works (and what doesn't) and give you tips and tricks for getting the publicity that helps drive traffic. You will leave this event ready to open your store's doors to lots of new people and exciting events.

SBA programs and services support you, the small business person. Learn about SBA resources to help your business succeed, opportunities that exist and services that assist. Young entrepreneur information, international trade expertise and small business advocacy are just a few of the subjects that will be covered in this informative session. The SBA is a resource that makes retailing a smooth ride.

Everyone says their people are their No. 1 asset, but the view from the floor can be very different. Few stores have in place a structured program for helping managers get the most out of their staff, and their people feel it. This seminar gets to the heart of the matter with step by step instruction on specific techniques for goal setting, training, motivation and ensuring accountability while keeping your store a fun, friendly place to do business, for customers and for your people. What numbers should you be responsible for? Your managers? Your staff? What makes a great sales meeting? What should be discussed in monthly one-on-ones? What team-building events should you be staging and how often? And ultimately, how do you keep the entire store team focused on the same goals? Developed and presented by professional business trainer Jeff Hiller, former senior executive with the largest U.S. ad agency, 10-year owner/operator of a still thriving independent retail furniture chain, and VP Marketing & Retail for a record-setting furniture importer, a three-time Inc 500 Fastest Growing Private Company.

Explore innovative technology in new worlds where your retail dreams of profitability and efficiency come true. Transport your own Magic Kingdom to Tomorrowland with inspiration from inspired visionaries like Walt Disney, Jules Verne and George Lucas as you learn how new discoveries are making their way into distribution centers, offices and sales floors like yours.

A common lament about our industry is that everything is beginning to look the same. The furniture lacks the distinction that it used to have 30 years ago, when manufacturers produced unique designs that were unquestionably theirs. Retailers have had to weather this trend, with varying degrees of success.

This session will explore how Jim McIngvale of Gallery Furniture in Houston, Texas doesn’t just seek to undo this conundrum, he smashes it in the mouth. The entrance to Gallery Furniture conveys with videos and displays the serene magnitude of having nearly lost the business to fire, only to open up into a magnificent, carnival-like atmosphere of big-screen televisions, live animal cages, fresh-squeezed lemonade, and chocolate chip cookies baking. An experience not unfamiliar to Disney fans around the globe.

Energy is everywhere, and no one is ignored — another Disney mainstay. McIngvale turns shopping into an adventure — an experience, and that is the point! Come listen to how this already enigmatic business model was improved and learn how you can engage your guests and gain life long fans.

Understanding new concepts and insights are just the first step to change and growth. Building upon the concepts and insights presented in Session 1, this session will turn dreams into realities. Learn the practical steps that can create maximum growth in your bedding business.

No better place to be a little Goofy then right here at the Disneyland_® Resort! The Queen of a fantastic and fun furniture shopping experience, Mary Liz Curtin joins us again to bring back the popular topic of making furniture FUN! Join Mary Liz, co-owner of Leon & Lulu, an award winning furniture, gift and accessory store, for an informative and amusing look at ways to help your customers have more fun while they are shopping. She will discuss the importance of humor, great customer service and building friendships with your shoppers.

You will hear about in-store events, fund-raisers and parties that attract new customers as well as entertain your existing client base.

Bring a lighthearted attitude and your best ideas- this interactive presentation is one you won't want to miss.