Staying Focused on the Fun _ Nov/Dec 2018

Scott C. Borowsky

Your everyday tasks don’t have to become mundane, but can stay fun, especially if you keep in touch with other retailers to learn how they handle their problems and challenges. Souvenirs, Gifts & Novelties (SGN) is a way to do just that, and can connect you to your retail colleagues around the country. In the magazine, all types of store owners and workers, from those representing jewelry, gift and zoo shops to employees of party, apparel and hospital stores, share their stories with our contributing writers. So if you are feeling stuck, there is always something new to learn from your colleagues regarding everything from buying and display to employee training and customer service.

As our semi-annual Profiles in Excellence issue, this is a great edition to both connect with other retailers, and to re-connect or learn more about a select group of vendors. The vendors featured in the half-page Profile stories throughout the issue are also advertisers in the book. So you can turn to the Featured Advertisers Index for ad page numbers and websites to learn even more.

In each issue, we explore all of the pressing issues retailers come up against daily as they seek to serve the public and compete with larger operations. If there is ever an issue or problem you would like to see covered, we will be happy to assign a story on the topic. Just email editorsgnmag@kanec.com for a personal response.

The surf and beach merchandise category is strong, as is evidenced by the successful Surf Expo trade show. In this edition, we offer a Surf Expo Section that covers everything from apparel, unique coastal gifts and jewelry to sun care, accessories and sunglasses.

We also offer a Special Las Vegas Market Preview Section that covers gifts, souvenirs, apparel, accessories and jewelry as well as personal care products, candles and gifts. The feature also offers a story on souvenirs and gifts at public lands partner stores and presidential libraries. Additionally, there are articles to commemorate the Tucson Gem show and the Denver Western event.

The issue is packed with many other interesting sections containing informative features, including an outdoor garden section, a jewelry report, home décor and quality gifts departments, a licensed merchandise area and many others. Don’t miss the Special Spotlight on Souvenirs section and other enlightening reports too numerous to name here. See the table of contents for a complete list.

I hope you enjoy the issue. Please email me at editorsgnmag@kanec.com or call 610-645-6940 ext. 0 with comments, questions and suggestions and I will be happy to take the time to address your concerns personally.

Scott C. Borowsky

President and Executive Editor

Souvenirs, Gifts & Novelties magazine