ZAG plans several networking events for Las Vegas Souvenir & Resort Gift Show

The trade show will also offer two educational sessions featuring the former ZAG president Tommy Brown of the Saint Louis Zoo.

The Zoo, Aquarium & Garden Buyers Group (ZAG) will offer several networking opportunities at the upcoming Las Vegas Souvenir & Resort Gift Show, Sept. 17-20 at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

ZAG is hosting a Mixer networking event from 5-7 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 18 in the convention center. ZAG members will have the opportunity to connect with fellow members and sponsors for drinks and a dessert happy hour. The group is also hosting a networking breakfast Thursday, Sept. 19 to give members a chance to meet with new exhibitors at the trade show.

The Las Vegas Souvenir & Resort Gift Show will also present two educational sessions focused on the future of retail. The sessions, scheduled for Sept. 17 and 18, are open to all attendees and will feature industry leaders discussing innovative approaches to visual merchandising and the importance of diversity, equity, access and inclusion (DEAI) in retail.

Tommy Brown, retail manager at the Saint Louis Zoo and former ZAG president, will lead a session titled, “Presentation: Visuals for 2024 and More!” at 11 a.m. on Sept. 17 at the Connection Corner Booth #4143. Retail professionals looking to stay ahead of the curve in visual merchandising will not want to miss this session, which will explore the latest in visual technologies, including new 3D props and large-scale graphics, that are set to transform retail spaces in 2024 and 2025. Attendees will gain insights into how bold visual strategies can captivate consumers and drive sales in a competitive market.

Brown will also moderate a session titled, “Panel: Diversity, Equity, Access, and Inclusion in Retail” at 11 a.m. on Sept. 18 at the Connection Corner Booth #4143. In a retail landscape increasingly focused on inclusivity and representation, this session brings together industry leaders to discuss how DEAI principles can be integrated into retail strategies. The session will explore how DEAI impacts social sustainability, economic success and innovative retail operations. Panelists include:

• Angela Dalby, vice president of marketing, sales & creative at Charles Products Inc.: She will share her knowledge on consumer insights, product development and experiences from Charles Products Inc.
• Melissa Lew, owner of Melissa Lew: She will share her experience in creating eco-friendly, culturally inspired designs that resonate with a diverse customer base
• Mary Nickelson, retail and purchasing manager at Mall of America: She will discuss her efforts in promoting diversity, inclusion and belonging with one of the world’s most-visited retail destinations

These sessions are essential for retail professionals aiming to enhance their visual merchandising strategies and foster a more inclusive retail environment, according to the Las Vegas Souvenir & Resort Gift Show. Attendees will gain actionable strategies to implement within their own businesses.

The Las Vegas Souvenir & Resort Gift Show brings together buyers and exhibitors from across the country. Held annually in Las Vegas, it features a wide range of products, from souvenirs and resort apparel to gifts and collectibles.

For more information, visit, www.lvsouvenirshow.com.