BrandSource Chief Executive Officer Jim Ristow touted growing membership and increased sales during the merchandising group’s annual Summit & Expo Feb. 28 to March 2 in Orlando, Florida.
The annual summit included an awards ceremony, training sessions, product showcases, sales meetings and educational seminars. A game night and golf tournament allowed attendees to relax and unwind, while a 5K run/walk raised $4,000 for Disabled American Veterans.
BrandSource, based in Tustin, California, is a member-owned group that touts nearly 4,500 independent dealer members in North America with more than $14 billion in annual retail sales. ProSource, its consumer electronics division, represents more than 500 specialty retailers and boasts annual retail sales of more than $4 billion.
On the opening day of the annual summit, Ristow addressed the audience, warning of retailer complacency and affirming his commitment to the membership. DzWe are going to build the brand where it can make the members money, not spend their money to build the brand,dz he said.
During the event, BrandSource also offered a tribute to retiring Chief Financial Officer Kathy Maloney, commending her for 26 years of service, and honored several others. Earning 2015 BrandSource Salesperson of the Year awards were Rick Caldwell of Oldfield’s Inc., Michael Dal Pozzo of Dick Van Dyke Appliance World and Frank Switalski of Don’s Appliances. Leigh Donadieu of Electrolux received the Women in Business TrailBlazer award and BrandSource regional manager Chad Evans earned the Premium Player award.
