It’s Going to be a Great Conference!

By the time you read this, the 2014 Charleston Business Development Conference will be in full swing. Rooms at the conference hotel sold out early and excitement among those attending is high.

For example, consider Bill Muske who attended for the first time in 2013. Then, Bill was hesitant thinking there might not be enough for laundries. He discovered the sessions and interactions with other Members so energizing, that 2014 finds him leading a forum discussing marketing that really works. He would know—his laundry, Mid City Services, posted double digit growth for the past three years and is on track to expand 30% this year. See how Bill grew the business in his interview on page 14.

Another 2013 1st time attendee, Terry Southern of Logo Branders, returns this year to share information about her company’s exceptional growth. Terry’s focus group will be reviewing proven methods of achieving profitable growth which they will share with the entire group on Friday.

We welcomed new Preferred Suppliers to the conference this year. LAPCO, manufacturer of top quality FR garments, is profiled on page 28. In addition to special Universal Unilink pricing, they offer extra discounts for first orders and show specials. Showdown Displays also joins us this year. On page 6 you’ll learn about this high margin $12 billion dollar segment. Look around, everyone from the local salon to the auto dealer is using banner signs.

We are also happy to announce that just before going to print, promotional products supplier Leed’s joined Universal Unilink. We will be telling you more about this award winning Preferred Supplier soon.

Conference Attendees will be the first to hear about some new benefits for Universal Unilink Members. I can’t divulge more here, but watch for details coming in eUpdates and future newsletters.

Don’t think this issue is only about the conference! On page 20, Rental Sales Rep reveals how you can use the objections your prospects give you to understand what their needs truly are. While targeting the rental segment, anyone in sales will pick up good pointers. Are you taking advantage of your FREE Google Plus Local page listing? Jennifer Schulman discusses why this is important for your business on page 10.

Yes, this is an exciting issue of The Advantage and we are going to have a tremendous conference. We’re sorry if you couldn’t fit it into your schedule this year. Mark it on your calendar for next year and look for highlights in the next issue of The Advantage.