Working With Eller:

I’ve known Randy for years, he’s not only a colleague in our industry but a friend too. He’s been an outspoken proponent and a torchbearer for our industry and he understands the importance of the creative process, product development and partnering with independent shop owners. We both have a love and appreciation for “independents,” these folks who have found their calling in our gift and design world.

Randy and I get together on a regular basis to “check in” with each other, compare notes and generally talk shop about what we both are seeing in the industry. His ability to see future trends and to quickly understand marketplace dynamics is a unique set of skills….he’s got a great insight into our industry.

“Passion for the Creative Process”

The Big Benefit:

I think the one thing that stands out over the years is the consistency, continuity and the importance that the independent retail channel has in our gift industry. Randy and I have seen retailers come and go. We’ve seen large chains that rose during the boom days and then were challenged in harder times. Though the mix and makeup of retailers has changed over the years, the mindset, creativity and passion for what they are doing has remained constant. I continue to see amazing retail, remarkable story telling and beautiful merchandising from our independents. The engagement in “their” community will always set them apart. As Mark Twain wrote, “the rumors of my demise are greatly exaggerated” and so goes the rumors for independent retailing. Randy and I have heard these stories for many years … and we both believe there are retailers across the country that are making a difference. His love for what we do, the passion for the creative process and his love for independent retailers has been a constant.