P+P: How does the economy continue to affect the industry?
JV: It's evident each sector is struggling to keep adequate marketing/promotional budgets and staff. Less money and less staff stresses the decision-making process—yet delivery dates and timing of decisions result in short production times. Heightened response rate is key today. Reliable, stable suppliers with adequate inventory, with production times of less than five or 10 days, now compete with those that have 24-hour service. Every step in this process requires efficient timing, otherwise both supplier and distributor/salesperson run the risk of losing relationships, time and, of course, revenue. But all is not lost. Despite reduced budgets, seasoned, smart marketers in many segments grasp the value of this industry. We just have to find them!