National Association of Sporting Goods Wholesalers | 5 consists of family-owned businesses, some going back generations. The association often hears how much “fun” it is to work for one of their member firms. This is also an industry that requires a lot of hands-on instruction and display, as potential buyers want to see, try and understand the product prior to purchase. “Service is personal. It’s not just a job. It’s part of their everyday lifestyle. What they do fromMonday to Friday is also their hobby and sport on the weekends,” Desmarais says. INDUSTRY INTERESTS There are several objectives of NASGW, including promoting the common interest of the sporting goods industry, encouraging the highest standards of merchandising practices, maintaining an active liaison with the trade associations of all other segments of the industry, collecting and distributing information as to all matters or things pertaining to sporting goods wholesalers, and conducting and participating in sporting goods shows and exhibitions. The most valuable service they provide is their annual NASGW Annual Meeting/ Expo. This event features new products and services introduced in the industry, while providing educational, marketing and communications opportunities for the hunting and shooting sports wholesaler, manufacturer and sales professional. “Ours is like the introduction of what’s going to happen in 2013,” Desmarais says. “It’s a very intense event, with about 1,500 attendees and 400 exhibitors. It’s a major networking and educational event providing
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