One new initiative we have started is a weekly EBA member store ZOOM meeting since the middle of April. The calls started as a way for stores to share information and support each other. We had about 9 stores on this past week's call.
Our annual meeting this year also will be virtual and will be held on July 17 via ZOOM. It was discussed by the Board, and it was decided that it would not be beneficial to either the supporting vendors or member stores for vendors to attend the virtual meeting.
Instead, the Board voted to start a weekly "Meet Your Supporting Vendor” series featuring a new vendor each week meeting with our store managers on Zoom.This system will be a good way for each vendor to meet our stores, discuss new products, any EBA specials, etc. These new calls will begin this Tuesday, June 23 at 5:30 PM Eastern time. We have asked vendors to consider sending out a handout ahead of time for stores to have as a reference during each call.
We know that a number of our stores are still closed physically. Some stores have continued to operate with online business and local delivery or contactless pickup. These summer vendor calls will be more informational and a great opportunity for stores who have reopened or are on the verge of reopening to learn of each vendor’s new products, and ideas of products to order. For stores not yet open physically and who may have an online presence, this could be an opportunity to increase their online business.
We also are asking vendors to discuss any opportunities for stores with an online presence to feature their products online with drop shipping merchandise directly to the customer from the vendor.
We meet on Tuesdays at 5:30 PM Eastern time for about an hour. We would plan for the first 15 minutes to have participating stores introducing themselves and checking in with the group. The remaining 45 minutes would be for the vendor to present and then take questions.
If you have any questions, please email or call me on my cell number at 904-370-0076.
Blessings,
Kathryn Bissette
Executive Director
director@episcopalbooksellers.org
