Universal Furniture Sets Seminar Slate

October 8, 2015  by in High Point, Industry, Market, Special Events   

The presentations will be of particular interest to interior designers and another session is tailored to retailers of youth furniture. 

Universal introduced its Learning Center, located in its new showroom at 101 S. Hamilton St. in April 2015 to provide a space for ongoing educational programs for dealers and interior designers.  

“We are very excited to invite retailers and designers to our space to learn about new happenings in the marketplace and the impact it could have on their business,” said Neil MacKenzie, director of marketing

The schedule includes:

• “Smartstuff Smart Mom Panel: Meet Your Customers—LIVE!” Saturday, Oct. 17, 1-3 p.m.

Retailers will hear from moms who have recently purchased baby and youth furniture with an opportunity to ask questions and to listen to decision-making moms. Those attending will learn the latest ways moms use the Internet to browse, compare and buy; how moms use mobile devices and apps in store and at home; the features, benefits, services and messages they want to see; the design trends, styling and merchandising that catch their eye and capture their imagination; and what makes moms remain loyal to stores.

• "The Future of Design - The Necessity of Innovation," Sunday, Oct. 18, 3-4 p.m.

Join panelists Jason Oliver Nixon from Madcap Cottage, Sara Ledterman, editor of adorno magazine; SXSW panelist Kevin Litt, creator of Adornably; Stacey Tiveron, founder of Steelyard; and other industry notables, as they candidly discuss the mounting pressure placed on designers and retailers. This dialogue intends to challenge traditional business models with a no-holds-barred discussion about customer engagement in an internet-driven economy, and the blurring of traditional lines between offline and online commerce; the innovative use of technology, product innovation and new delivery models expected to accelerate the pace of convergence; and how to keep pace with your most creative and aggressive competitors. Cocktails immediately following. Presented by the High Point Market Authority, in association with NAHFA, Steelyard, WithIt, Design Camp, and Universal Furniture.

• “Recipe for Press - A Conversation with Amy Flurry from Parlore,” Monday, Oct. 19, 2:30-3:30 p.m. 

In association with Parlore, Universal To The Trade will host a presentation by Amy Flurry, author of the new DIY publicity book, Recipe for Press, a program intended for designers who want to learn more about self-promotion using new media. Co-founder of Paper-Cut-Project, Flurry is an editor and contributor to some of the biggest magazines on the newsstand (Lucky, Country Living, Conde Nast Traveler, InStyle, Better Homes & Gardens). The first 75 people will receive a free copy of Flurry’s book, which she will sign following the presentation. Copies also will be available for sale at the event.