By Lisa Casinger
My September editorial on opening the ABC Expo to all buyers sparked some discussions on the subject.


Independent retailers want the show to remain as is for a variety of reasons; a couple of online retailers expressed their thoughts on opening the show to everyone. During the show itself several vendors said they were all for one show and have been for quite awhile. Join the discussion online at www.kidstodayonline.com, click on my blog and post your responses.
Retailers visiting the site also should check out the Retail Innovators invitation. Kids Today is looking for retailers who think outside the box, who go the extra mile, or who have a creative way of displaying product and doing business. We’ll feature these retailers in our next issue. Tell us about your store and send pictures. See all the details on the Retail Innovators form online.

Our last issue of the year also will include a feature on giving back. The juvenile industry is full of philanthropic retailers, associations and manufacturers. They donate products to K.I.D.S., Extreme Makeover: Home Edition and other causes. They host charity events in their stores; develop products for breast cancer awareness, SIDS and more. Ours is a generous industry and Kids Today wants to spread the word. Let us know what your business does to make a difference. Email me your story at lcasinger@reedbusiness.com.