Furniture First, the national independent retail buying group, recently provided a unique opportunity for 48 NextGen individuals from 26 member stores to embark on a four-day, three-night retreat to Playa Del Carmen, Mexico. The trip, sponsored by two of Furniture First’s supplier partners, aimed to foster professional development, networking, and team building among the NextGen members.
While the scenic resort setting allowed for relaxation and fun, the focus of the retreat was on productive activities and sessions. Engaging in team-building exercises, such as a round of Furniture First Family Feud and collaborative Lego set assembly, the NextGen members strengthened their bonds and honed their problem-solving skills. Additionally, valuable sessions were held where topics ranging from effective promotional strategies to managing corporate culture were discussed.
The highlight of the retreat was a memorable catamaran excursion in the gulf, which included an adventurous snorkeling experience. The group concluded their retreat with a private dinner, further cementing the connections made during their time in Playa Del Carmen.
Mack Kauffman, the director of sleep products at Furniture First and NextGen program coordinator, highlighted the importance of taking the NextGen members away from the pressures of their daily store operations. “Being in a different environment allows them to step back, gain perspective, and learn from others facing similar challenges,” said Kauffman. By offering an opportunity to compare notes and adopt different viewpoints, the retreat equips the NextGen members with the necessary skills to navigate the complexities of their future roles in the industry.
The NextGen program at Furniture First plays a crucial role in preparing individuals for succession plans within their respective stores. As the retail landscape evolves and store retirements become more common, the need for well-equipped leaders who can adapt and grow is paramount. Furniture First CEO, Andrew Kauffman, emphasized the importance of training the next generation of retail leaders to ensure the continued success of family-owned businesses.
In a world where professional development often takes a backseat, Furniture First sets a commendable example by investing in the growth and development of emerging retail leaders. The Playa Del Carmen retreat serves as a testament to their commitment to nurturing talent and building a brighter future for the industry as a whole.
An FAQ Section:
1. What was the purpose of the retreat in Playa Del Carmen?
The purpose of the retreat in Playa Del Carmen was to foster professional development, networking, and team building among the NextGen members of Furniture First, a national independent retail buying group.
2. How many individuals participated in the retreat?
A total of 48 NextGen individuals from 26 member stores participated in the retreat.
3. What were some of the activities and sessions during the retreat?
During the retreat, the NextGen members engaged in team-building exercises like a round of Furniture First Family Feud and collaborative Lego set assembly. They also attended valuable sessions discussing topics such as effective promotional strategies and managing corporate culture.
4. What was the highlight of the retreat?
The highlight of the retreat was a memorable catamaran excursion in the gulf, which included an adventurous snorkeling experience.
5. How did the retreat benefit the NextGen members?
The retreat allowed the NextGen members to step back from their daily store operations, gain perspective, and learn from others facing similar challenges. It provided an opportunity to compare notes, adopt different viewpoints, and develop the necessary skills for their future roles in the industry.
6. What role does the NextGen program at Furniture First play?
The NextGen program at Furniture First plays a crucial role in preparing individuals for succession plans within their respective stores. It aims to train the next generation of retail leaders to ensure the continued success of family-owned businesses in an evolving retail landscape.
7. How does Furniture First invest in the growth and development of emerging retail leaders?
Furniture First sets an example by investing in the growth and development of emerging retail leaders through initiatives like the Playa Del Carmen retreat. They provide opportunities for professional development, networking, and team building to nurture talent and build a brighter future for the industry.
Definitions:
– Furniture First: A national independent retail buying group.
– NextGen: Refers to the Next Generation members of Furniture First, who are being prepared for succession plans within their respective stores.
– Networking: The act of establishing and cultivating professional relationships for mutual benefit.
– Team building: Activities and exercises designed to enhance relationships, communication, and collaboration within a team.
– Catamaran: A type of boat characterized by two parallel hulls.
– Snorkeling: The practice of swimming on or through a body of water while equipped with a diving mask, a shaped breathing tube called a snorkel, and usually swimfins.
– Corporate culture: The shared values, beliefs, and practices that shape the behavior of individuals within an organization.
– Succession plans: Plans that outline how leadership positions will be transitioned within an organization.
– Retail landscape: The overall environment and conditions in which retail businesses operate.
Suggested Related Links:
– Furniture First Official Website
– NextGen Program
– Retreat Recap
– Supplier Partners