W&E; Today provides retailers and manufacturers with education and ideas that provoke innovation in the Western and English markets.
Issue link: http://wetoday.epubxp.com/i/267070
10 Western & English Today Early Spring 2014 WESA JANUARY MARKET KicKS off PoSiTiVE oUTLooK foR 2014 With more than 700 exhibitors showing close to 1,300 lines, there was something for everyone at the Denver January WESA Market. Most exhibitors reported a strong market, indicating a positive start to the new year. Despite foot trafc being down from past markets, the number of foreign stores was up with 24 diferent countries represented. Retailers in attendance — many who had strong Christmas sales — expressed optimism for the coming year. Attendees at the Opening Night Party and Fashion Show were treated to a performance by country music's hottest new duo and endorsees for Cowgirl Up, Nik and Sam. Tis year's fashion show featured new and exciting trends from 30 diferent manufacturers. Top Hand Award winner Western Horseman magazine was honored by WESA for its contributions to the industry. Representing the many behind the scenes that make this publication possible was Butch Morgan. Tom Buxton, WESA's 2014 Salesperson of the Year, was also honored for his many years of exceptional service to both his customers and community. Along with complimentary breakfast each morning, Dr. Linda Tally presented three separate educational seminars. Dr. Tally's expertise on body language and nonverbal communication gave attendees useful information for both their professional and personal lives. Ken McNabb, a crowd favorite with his laid-back demeanor and valuable insights, performed in two horse demonstrations on Sunday of the market. Eight exhibitors were recognized for exceptional booth design. Best of Show booth décor winners included; Andy Luk, representing the Kamberley Group; Ernie Tarut of Old Gringo Boots; and Kerstin Stock, owner/designer of Wyo-Horse. Te next WESA Market will be Sept. 5–7, 2014, at the Denver Mart. (800) 295-1041; denver-wesa.com RicKY BoLiN NAMED GENERAL MANAGER of HATco GARLAND, TExAS — Hatco announced the appointment of Ricky Bolin to the position of General Manager on Jan. 27, 2014. Formerly sales manager over Western hats, Bolin will now oversee day-to- day operations over the entire company, including men's and women's apparel, dress hats and Western hats. During the companywide announcement, Bolin, who has been with the company for 25 years, reiterated his commitment to, and focus on, high quality, made-in-USA hats. "We manufacture some of the best- known brands in the Western business," said Bolin. "We aim to not only continue to sell to our core customers, but to also reach out to the new ones who are just now fnding the joy in the Western lifestyle." Hatco started in 1927, under the name Byer-Rolnick Hat Company, manufacturing Resistol Hats. Now in its 86th year and known as RHE Hatco, the company manufactures a multitude of headwear brands, including Stetson, Resistol, Charlie 1 Horse, Wrangler and Dobbs in both men's and women's Western and modern fashion styles. In addition to headwear, RHE Hatco also designs and markets the apparel brands Rancho Estancia, RU Apparel and Resistol Ranch. (800) 347-7434; info@hat-co.com Country music duo and Cowgirl Up endorsees Nik and Sam performed at the January WESA Market's Opening Night Party and Fashion Show. Ricky Bolin 0314 Industry News.indd 10 2/21/14 11:33 AM