Greetings to all as we begin 2022!

I hope the year has started out well for you, and I wish all members good health in the year to come. There’s a lot of exciting initiatives happening with Shop!, and I can’t wait to unveil them for you in the coming months. For now, below is a brief update to keep you posted on the direction we’re headed for 2022.

Since moving into this role last fall, it’s been an ongoing whirlwind of activity. Amidst kicking off Shop! Ideation in November, we were assessing every platform that powers the Shop! “engine” and all the member benefits. We made some fixes and discovered opportunities and fresh ideas – all with a focus on how Shop! can provide valuable, useful tools to support member organizations.

We are excited to announce our biggest initiative yet, the launch of Shop! MarketPlace 2022, taking place May 24-26 in Austin, TX. An exquisitely edited trade experience, the event is tailored for retail creators seeking the latest curated products and services impacting the future of the in-store experience. Registration is now live and free to eligible Shop! members. Manufacturers and suppliers interested in exhibiting can choose from several booth sizes and packages to meet their company’s unique budget and goals. Learn more at shop-marketplace.com.

Keeping in step with the transformation of retail, Shop! has been rethinking the association’s offerings and listening to members like you. We just signed with a new partner who will be hosting a customizable online community for members to meet, collaborate and share ideas — on any device and from anywhere on the planet. A hub for all things Shop!, the platform includes a gamification component, online learning, video conferencing, a supplier and member directory, meeting rooms and chatting features. Stay tuned for the official launch this May.

In future updates I’ll unveil the new Shop! Pillars. These strategically defined Pillars will represent the foundation on which we create value and benefits for our members and in turn grow the association. The Pillars will also be an important guide as we work to redefine our councils to encourage more participation and engagement.

Our focus is, and always will be, to elevate the in-store experience while also increasing membership value and supporting the growth and evolution of our industry.

I’m looking forward to increased communication with you as we take this journey together to rethink our Shop! Association. Please feel free to reach out to me at any time. I’d love to hear from you and hear what’s on your mind.

Sincerely,

MURRAY KASMENN
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, SHOP!
murray.kasmenn@smartworkmedia.com