It’s a fact: There is no event out there for firearms retailers like SHOT Show University. Offered each year on the day before the SHOT Show opens, it’s a day of seminars specifically tailored to the needs of those in the firearm retail business.
The 2012 SHOT Show University, with a theme of “Retail Is Detail,” is set for Monday, Jan. 16. If you haven’t already done so, get registered today.
Here is one retailer’s take on the value of SHOT Show University and NSSF membership, as published in SHOT Business magazine:
NSSF Member: Joe Keffer, owner
Organization: The Sportsman’s Shop, New Holland, Pa.
Description of Organization: “Our store was started in 1954, and we purchased it from that founding family in 1992. At that time it was primarily a hunting and fishing shop, but we have transitioned our 5,000-square-foot facility into a full-line shooting shop with an offering as a Class III dealer that is probably about 40 percent hunting and 60 percent personal defense and tactical. We have a full-time gunsmith on the premises, and we are exploring the idea of building a range.”
Experience with SHOT Show University: “I’ve probably been attending SHOT Show University for a half dozen years, and I will continue to go back. The content has always been timely and relevant to the firearms retailer’s activities and needs. The sessions are often put on by progressive dealers, and hearing from people that actually are out there doing what I’m doing adds credibility to the sessions. These ‘real-life presenters’ have been very approachable after the sessions, whether it was at meals, the reception or even after I got back to my store. SHOT Show University gives me a much broader view of the marketplace and what we can do that’s new. To get all that information in a day cannot be duplicated anywhere.”
Value of NSSF Membership: “Through my involvement in the NSSF, we have also become involved in our state firearms retailer association, for which I now serve as president. With the support of the NSSF, we have been able to resolve many of our state issues. Furthermore, a number of resources–such as the Custom Market Report, other literature and manuals, and the ‘Don’t Lie for the Other Guy’ retailer kit–have all been invaluable in running and expanding our business.”
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Learn more about NSSF membership and join today at nssfmembership.com.