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New association hints of channel's mounting influence
LAS VEGAS - As one of the fastest-growing retail niches, dollar stores are definitely getting noticed. For the first time, the industry not only has its own trade show, but also a new industry association that debuted at the same time.
Reaction was mixed to the first Dollar Store Expo, held May 15 to 16 at the Tropicana Hotel Convention Center in Las Vegas. Some attendees liked the small venue, which featured slightly more than 200 exhibitors, while others complained traffic was too light. Bentley International Group produced the show, which will be followed by a second event this fall in Atlantic City.
While operators of independent dollar stores were in the majority, representatives of major chains also attended, including Family Dollar, 99 Cents Only, Dollar General, Wal-Mart, Kmart, Ames, Bill's Dollar Store and Walgreens.
"Major players in the industry attended and did business, as well as hundreds of dollar store owners and operators. Being a first-time event, we were very pleased with the end result," said Kristina Mullen, trade show manager.
The Dollar Store Expo marked the launch of the Retail Dollar Association, with a membership drive that kicked off last month and continuing until the fall show. Retailers may join as charter members and suppliers as associate members.
Although traffic at the show did appear to be light, many operators of independent dollar stores were pleased with the venue and found the show useful. Because the expo focused on merchandise that sells for $1, buyers didn't have to sift through the multiprice point merchandise offered at larger shows, such as the ASD/AMD variety and general merchandise show held twice a year.
"I love it. I like the idea of not having to go through a lot of merchandise that's above 99 cents. What...