Most of you are probably not that familiar with the former Hawaii Trade Conference that was held every year for distributors, stores, and manufacturers to exchange notes. This conference’s purpose was to bring together both sides of the spectrum to provide the brick and mortar with as much valuable information as possible, as well give them essential expertise from industry leaders to thrive in their ventures.
Although the conference is no longer in Hawaii, they are still putting together an impressive agenda in Las Vegas for the participants to attend. I was invited to the event by the coordinator, Kevin Isaacson, and it would have been a great learning experience as someone who is looking to expand my scope. However, because of the due date of my future son, I am unable to go, but would like to give them a great plug to get them some publicity.
Im sure you have seen the Donruss Black Boxes that sometimes make their way onto youtube and ebay
. These boxes are promotional items that have become collector favorites due to the unique pieces you can attain, and Kevin is actually one of the originators of this concept. This is one of many opportunities for any person involved in the industry to gain an understanding of the products and concepts presented by each company, as well as other entities that are also attending to inform and learn.
One of the more interesting guests of the conference was just announced, and I am sad that I am missing it. Former Yankees PR Chief Marty Appel will be in attendance, someone who has invaluable insight into the hobby and the sports we love. The release says that, “Appel’s presentation will draw on his 17 books, and appearances on ESPN, HBO, MLB, and YES Network, his friendships with Mantle, Berra, Martin, Rizzuto, Ford, Murcer, and Munson, his days as MLB spokesman under Bowie Kuhn, his consulting roles with 61* and The Bronx is Burning (in which he also appeared), and his memories of the original Yankee Stadium.” Sounds amazing.
If you are interested in going as part of the industry side, please shoot me an email for more info on how to get in contact with Kevin.