January through March means one thing to us here at Eastmans’…. show season. This is the time of year where we travel to all the various industry trade shows as well as make stops at all the International Sportsmen’s Expositions (ISE). It can be a bit crazy at times, but it truly is one of the most important times of the year for us. We get to go out and meet with companies and talk business for the company, as well as make new friendships, which is so vital in your success in this industry. When I sit down and think about it, it never ceases to amaze me how small this industry is. People think that the “outdoor industry” is this giant, glamorous place that only the lucky few get to be a part of…I can assure you, it’s no such thing.
The outdoor industry is very small. Actually, it’s not even a blip on the radar when it comes to major industries like food, clothing and movies. That’s why it’s so important to put out a good product, maintain a good reputation, align yourselves with the right brands/companies and keep your customers happy. After just getting back from both the ATA and SHOT show, I can’t say enough about how happy I am with where we are as a company and the partnerships we’ve developed.
Now, as I sit here and wait for my last load of laundry to dry before I repack my suitcase, I think about what next week is going to bring. We are off to Las Vegas for the SCI show as well as the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation’s Elk Camp, which ISE has now become a part of. It should be a good time, and hopefully more good meetings and feedback come our way as we hit the road again. So if you’re in the Las Vegas area next week and will be attending either show, feel free to stop by the booth and talk some hunting. Until next time my friends. ~Ike
