MIRC 2012: Retailers readying for big day

Retailers have voiced their support for this year’s MIRC, with key indies and specialist chains applauding the format and organisation of the one-day conference and expo.

This year’s event once again takes place at The Brewery in London on June 28th  and will again attract upwards of 250 retailers from across the country as well as a select number of supplier partners which so far includes headline sponsor Musikmesse, Yamaha, Roland, JHS, Casio, Barnes & Mullins, Rocksmith, Marshall, Mel Bay, Intermusic, Monacor, Elixir, Rotosound, EMC, Mel Bay, TC Group International, Lamba, Korg, Pioneer DJ and Audio-Technica.

“Last year’s MIRC event was both thought provoking and very productive for us,” said Finian Day-Lewis, manager of Chappell of Bond Street. “The panel discussions, in particular, proved fertile ground for ideas to grow our business and we took full advantage of the event to sit down with some of our key suppliers. I’m looking forward to this year’s event with bated breath.”

“It’s a great chance to hear MI experiences, good and bad, from up and down the country. We came away with some interesting ideas from the guest speakers and a positive outlook in general,” added Simon Hudson, store manager, Cookes, Norwich

Many of the retailers involved find that the opportunity to have conversations with their peers can be informative and inspiring and, ultimately, useful for their business.

“MIRC gives me the chance to take a step away from day to day matters, and discuss business in the company of other retailers. Also, focusing on a small number of suppliers allows for more productive conversations,” commented Noel Sheehan, managing director of Sheehans

“I found the conference extremely interesting and a fantastic opportunity to listen to observations and opinions from both large group and small independent retailers. An all round enjoyable and motivational day. I’ll definitely be back this year,” echoed Dave Passera, general manager, Wembley Drum Centre
 
The panel sessions in particular are a hit with many of the retailers that attend, as a forum for exchanging ideas and opinions and in many cases letting off a bit of steam about the problems and issues facing retail.

“It provides an opportunity to exchange ideas in an informal surrounding,” said Matt Redhead, sales assistant at Becketts Music. “The open Q&A sessions show you are not alone because others share similar problems and concerns. It’s a well organised and thought out show and provides a chance to talk to suppliers in a relaxed atmosphere. And there’s good food and a goody bag too!”

If you’re a retailer and want to experience the day there’s still time to register to attend MIRC by emailing mirc@intentmedia.co.uk.

A limited number of additional Event Packages are available. Contact Darrell.Carter@intentmedia.co.uk or Jodie.Holdway@intentmedia.co.uk, or call 01992 535647 to find out more.

For all the latest news on the MI Retail Conference & Expo, follow our Twitter feed at @mirc2012

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