The upcoming “Synergy” meeting for Shaw Design Center dealers will also serve as the launching pad for a new store concept. Developed by the firm Ley Design Group, the new concept encompasses “stylish, successful, upscale retail environments.” The meeting, which will also include networking and “business-building” activities, is set for April 14-17 at the Ginn Hammock Beach Resort in Palm Coast, Fla.

Research and development for the new store concept has been ongoing for three years, according to Scott Humphrey, marketing manager for the Shaw Flooring Alliance. Based on that research, the resulting store concept has been tailored to meet consumers' needs, he added. “Inspiration and fashion speak to the consumer in this modern showroom filled with clean maple displays, striking product options and exciting architectural elements. We are confident this is the right solution and will be the most powerful selling environment in the flooring industry,” he said.

The convention will kick off with a general session led by Shaw's president, Randy Merritt. Other sessions are set to include “Using Interactive Marketing to Your Advantage," “Developing the Perfect Salesperson” and “Creating Your Perfect Showroom.” Additionally, Shaw CFO Ken Jackson and the company's director of retail marketing, Steve Abernathy, will lead a two-part seminar on “Increasing and Improving Profitability.”

A new Shaw Design Center retailer said he was excited about the upcoming show. "I am really looking forward to networking with other established retailers within the program. Shaw always has something new and exciting happening, and I’m anxious to see what’s to come,” said Summer Turner of House of Carpet in Murfreesboro, Tenn.