Most independents don't have the time or resources to put together the financing programs and promotional offers that Nationwide offers members throughout the year.
Paul Sherman

Paul Sherman, owner of Sherman's stores.

Paul Sherman, owner of Sherman's stores, found the secret recipe to thriving in a downturn economy by sticking to the basics. Sounds simple, well according to Sherman it is. While most retailers struggled in 2008, Sherman's stores were up 10% for the calendar year.

"Many dealers are not sticking to the basics," said Sherman. "Everyone in business are having the same reservations but the worst thing you can do right now is pull back."

In fact, Sherman has carried this business philosophy into 2009. In March, construction will be completed on a brand new 30,000 sq.ft. distribution center. Sherman's will also celebrate a grand opening in May, for their new 29,000 sq.ft. store in Peru, Illinois.

"We are grateful that we are growing," said Sherman. "Central Illinois has been a stronger economy than most however; our growth is largely due to the way we do business."

Benefits of Nationwide Marketing Group

Sherman believes his membership with Nationwide Marketing Group (NMG), the nation's largest buying organization with over $11 billion in buying power, has attributed to his success.

"Nationwide affords us the opportunity to build camaraderie with other dealers, learn best business practices, and take advantage of group negotiated pricing and services."

Some of those services can be seen in several storefronts. Sherman has utilized MemberNet TV, high definition content for TV walls and video kiosks to greet customers with customized brand messaging.

Sherman explains, "Most independents don't have the time or resources to put together the financing programs and promotional offers that Nationwide offers members throughout the year. These are key elements in running a successful business. Nationwide also provides services tailored to smaller stores so we are able to keep the personal connection and personality that independents are known for with the same quality that matches what national chains are doing."

Nationwide Marketing Group is the parent company of RentDirect, the rent-to-own industry's largest buying group.

Sales Training Programs

Sherman boasts the value of sales associate training programs offered through NMG, "Our sales staff is among the most knowledgeable in Central Illinois and that makes a big difference."

According to Sherman, if there was one thing every independent retailer should be doing right it would be training their sales team. Nationwide provides training for management to sales associates through its powerful learning series.

"You may think you have good sales people but there is always room for improvement. We closed all of our stores for a day to implement the OpTEAMization program and have had great success incorporating the system into our daily sales strategy."

PrimeTime!

In March, Nationwide Marketing Group will host PrimeTime!, a bi-annual member exclusive vendor exhibition and conference, in New Orleans.

"I never miss Primetime!, it's the only time I am able to network with other dealers and meet face to face with my top vendors," said Sherman. "All the vendors exhibiting at the show have a purpose for the independent dealer. I always make sure I visit the booths of secondary vendors and service providers and try to pick up one or two extra things every show. The savings alone from merchandise purchased through the CashBack Now program more than pay for the trip."

As a long time member of Nationwide Marketing Group, Sherman's can compete with even the biggest national chains. The reason for its success is incredibly simple, nothing exceptional… just sticking to the basics.

For more information on Sherman's go to www.shermansinc.com. To find out more about the benefits of Nationwide Marketing Group membership go to www.nationwidegroup.org or call (336) 722-4681.