Furniture World News Desk on
8/29/2024
The National Alliance of Trade Merchants (NATM) announced
that its recently concluded Annual Conference brought together some of the nation’s top independent retailers
and vendors. The three-day event celebrated collaboration, innovation, and strategic growth within the consumer
electronics, appliance, and furniture/bedding industries.
The NATM 2024 Conference offered a range of impactful events, starting with keynote sessions where leading voices
from the consumer electronics, appliance and furniture industries shared invaluable insights that set the stage for
future developments. Networking opportunities facilitated meaningful connections among attendees and industry
leaders, while the exhibitor showcase allowed participants to explore the latest products and technologies from top
vendors. Workshops and breakout sessions provided critical insights into business development, market expansion, and
maximizing NATM membership benefits. The conference culminated in a prestigious leadership dinner, where industry
leaders and NATM members celebrated their achievements and strategized for future goals.
John Riddle, Head of NATM, expressed his vision for the future. “Our mission is to continue unifying the voices of
the nation’s top regional retailers, representing more than $11 billion across the retail sector. NATM’s
strength lies in its ability to unite vendors and retailers to combat big-box retailers, create partnership and
networking opportunities, and provide in-depth analytics and data that prove tremendously valuable to our esteemed
members and vendor partners.”
“Our success this year is a testament to our commitment to achieving our strategic goals,” continued Riddle. “By
delivering impactful retail events, strengthening vendor partnerships, and advancing our data and analytics
capabilities, we have created immense value for our members. The positive feedback from our members affirms that we
are on the right path and will continue to build on these accomplishments.
Riddle shared his perspective on adapting to market dynamics, leveraging data, and fostering collaboration to drive
growth and innovation with Furniture World.
Adapting to Market Conditions in Bedding and Furniture
“The bedding and furniture industries,” he noted, “have faced significant shifts in consumer
behavior, particularly in the wake of the pandemic.” Riddle acknowledged the impact of these changes, noting
that consumer preferences and spending patterns have shifted, leading to a need for strategic adjustments.
“Post-pandemic, we’ve seen a change in demand for comfort and functionality in home furnishings, driven
by an increased focus on home life,” Riddle explains. “Retailers must be agile, responding to these
shifts by offering products that align with evolving consumer needs.”
One major challenge Riddle highlighted is the need to navigate the complexities of deflationary pressures and reduced
consumer spending. “Retailers in the bedding and furniture sectors must carefully balance pricing strategies
with the need to maintain margins,” he adds. “Effective marketing and promotions are crucial to drive
sales and ensure consumers perceive value in their purchases.”
Leveraging Data for Competitive Advantage
In bedding and furniture, data-driven decision-making has become increasingly important. Riddle emphasized the role
of data analytics in enhancing business operations and optimizing performance. “Data provides invaluable
insights into consumer preferences, sales trends, and market dynamics,” he says. “By harnessing this
information, retailers can make informed decisions that drive growth and improve customer satisfaction.”
“NATM expanded our data reporting and analytics capabilities to offer more detailed insights into industry
performance and member activity,” Riddle notes. “This helps retailers understand market trends, optimize
their inventory, and tailor their promotional strategies.”
Enhancing Collaboration and Training
Riddle underscored the significance of collaboration within the industry. “Sharing best practices and working
together is essential for driving innovation and addressing common challenges,” he remarked. “NATM
fosters a collaborative environment, where members can exchange ideas and strategies to enhance their business
operations.”
In addition to collaboration, Riddle highlighted the importance of training and development. “Developing
comprehensive training materials for our members is a key priority,” he says. “We focus on showcasing
effective promotional programs and strategies that can help retailers succeed in a competitive market.”
Growing the Membership Base
Riddle said he’s committed to growing NATM’s membership by attracting new retailers and offering valuable
resources without creating conflicts within the group. “We aim to support independent retailers and provide
them with the tools they need to thrive,” Riddle explained. “We’re focused on building a strong,
diverse membership that contributes to a vibrant and dynamic industry.
“My goal is to give back to the industry and ensure that great retailers continue to drive growth and
vitality,” Riddle concluded. “By investing in our members and providing them with the resources they
need, we can make a positive impact and secure a bright future for the bedding and furniture sectors. By adapting to
market conditions, leveraging data, enhancing collaboration, and focusing on growth and legacy, NATM helps retailers
to position themselves for success in a dynamic and competitive environment.”
About National Alliance of Trade Merchants
Established in 1970, the National Alliance of Trade Merchants (NATM) is a preeminent national buying co-op that
encompasses 12 regional retailers within the appliance and electronics sector. The organization orchestrates
member buying and merchandising strategies while fostering an arena for the interchange of ideas. By harmonizing
these strategies, NATM not only optimizes value and profitability for its members but also delves into uncharted
market prospects. For more information, visit natmcorp.com.
