The post Valentine’s day Blues….perhaps not

 

Along with a number of dealers I was fortunate enough to attend a small event hosted by Vow at the Hinckley Island hotel on Friday.

The original concept looked interesting, a series of different and informative speakers followed by a low key dinner to enable the networking process to take root. What an enjoyable and useful experience it proved to be. I’ve always been in favour of more intimate and closer knit activities and had hoped to learn more about the effects on the economy as well as the chance to see the new Vow MD, Adrian Butler in his new role. The starring role for me however, was Tim Smit, the founder of the Eden Project with a truly inspiring err chat, really

Now let me make a statement right away. I have been a huge fan of Ian Sinclair and was able to relate to most of his views on the need for change. I didn’t always hold to the belief that the trade would go along with all his innovation,  and his tenure came very much at a difficult time, both in terms of the market and the need for Vow to recover from the exploits of 2009. I have remained tight lipped on Ian’s departure but wish him every success in whatever new venture he moves into….ooh and thanks for the great tips on iPhone!

Adrian is the young old kid (!) on the block, but has a wealth of experience in both industry and specifically sales. I have over a number of years been equally supportive of a very likable and adaptable young man. Now there’s a fact that hurts, as most new players in the market are nowadays younger than me!!

Adrian just a little coy!!

I can see already that difficult challenges lay ahead and that adaptability will be the key. Adrian gave some clear insight into the changes he feels need to be made for Vow to get ‘Back to Basics’ and I’m sure I’m not alone in wanting some real stability from our key supply partner.

Of course Vow aren’t alone in introducing change at the top. Spicers UK welcome Alan Ball in to head up the team as the new MD and will be going head to head with Adrian and Vow to bring in winning ways enabling improved performancce in both operations and profitability. We wish Alan well too, and first impressions following the OPI event pre christmas are encouraging.

sadly no....but great name!

So why Valentine’s day blues? Over recent years despite the engagement there have been times when the relationship between Vow and Office Friendly has been ocassionally strained as only such close partners can experience. We have felt that sometimes our love (& spend) has been unrequitted, that in fact the excitement and tingle from other customer relationships has overshadowed our long bonding togetherness.

Indeed, we have had such discussions with our partner on a number of occasions. I am however confident that the role that Office Friendly and our members have played over the last 12 months has reinforced our position and the new view to develop stronger  support for existing customers will manifest itself very positively. Vow seem to be back in love with us once more.

Here Comes The Sun...

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