Featured speakers, educational sessions on tap for Home Furnishings Industry Conference

Casual Living Staff -- Casual Living, 3/15/2013 10:48:20 AM

ROSEVILLE, Calif. - The National Home Furnishings Association, Western Home Furnishings Association, Southeastern Home Furnishings Association and the Home Furnishings Independents Association have announced the featured speakers for the 2013 Home Furnishings Industry Conference.

Scheduled for June 2-4 at the Sheraton New Orleans, the event theme of "Making It Big, Keeping It Easy" focuses education around developing agile skill sets for retailers to continue to evolve, compete and thrive. Serta Mattress has signed on for the second year to be the signature sponsor of the event.

"The opportunities for personal and business growth provided by the HFIC are incredible," said Howard Haimsohn, Lawrance Contemporary, San Diego, Calif. "I can't imagine trying to grow and move forward in this industry without the information, knowledge and wisdom that is presented and shared at the HFIC. My hotel room is already booked."

Featured speakers peppered throughout the agenda offer knowledge and know-how from within and outside the industry. The event opens Sunday evening with Jim Knight, former senior director of training and development for Hard Rock International with his presentation, Culture that Rocks: How to Revolutionize an Organization's Culture.

Monday brings iconic retailer Mike Spiller, Spiller Furniture, Tuscaloosa, Ala., to the stage to share years of stories, followed by an after session delving deeper into understanding the dynamics of long-term success.
Small business owner, columnist and author Gene Marks is featured in two sessions and will share his knowledge on business and the current political landscape. Marks' book, In God We Trust, Everyone Else Pays Cash, is complimentary to all HFIC attendees.

Kelly McDonald, McDonald Marketing, closes the education on Tuesday afternoon with a presentation based on her latest book, Crafting the Customer Experience, which is also complimentary to attendees. McDonald first spoke at the 2011 HFIC in San Antonio, Texas.

"Attending HFIC yearly is a golden opportunity for me to get out and work on my business rather than the day-to-day routine of working in my business," said Heather Hanley, The Tin Roof, Spokane, Wash. "Meeting with industry experts and other retailers in a fun and casual environment away from the hurried nature of markets is refreshing and inspiring. Coming away with just one great idea each year makes the trip well worthwhile. I look forward to HFIC every year and recommend it to any retailer who wants to move their operation forward."

The HFIC offers more than 25 education sessions, a best idea contest and a 60-booth product showcase.

"New this year is a simplified online registration process," said Cindi Williams, WHFA director of events. "It is amazing how quickly attendees can register for the event, take advantage of the buy one, get one free offer and sign up for all the fun optional activities planned. And the confirmation comes right to your inbox, brilliant!"

Retailers, vendors and manufacturers interested in attending the event can visit www.thehfic.com to register online, reserve their hotel room and learn more about the full agenda. Exhibitor showcase and sponsorship information can also be found on the event website.