New sales rep group champions shop-local movement

Reps Are Local Too is collaborating with the International Home Furnishings Representatives Association to reach a larger audience.

DALLAS – A new group that supports local sales reps is now collaborating with the International Home Furnishings Representatives Association (IHFRA) to reach a larger audience.

Reps Are Local Too emphasizes the critical role local reps play in supporting retail success.

It was established this summer by Angela Schmook, vice president of operations at Road Runners LLC, and Kelly P. Bristol, vice president of business development at Just Got 2 Have It!

The group, which got started in time for summer markets in Dallas, Atlanta, Las Vegas and other venues, was initially comprised of 25 independent rep agencies and has grown to 54 firms nationwide.

Central to the initiative is the belief that local reps possess invaluable knowledge of their markets, allowing retailers to make informed product decisions and develop long-lasting partnerships that benefit their businesses and communities.

“In the spirit of the ‘Shop Local’ movement, Reps Are Local Too highlights the importance of retailers collaborating with their local representatives,” said Schmook. “Reps are the lifeblood of their communities, working diligently to bring fresh products into stores and driving local economic growth so that every Main Street may thrive.”

“This movement transcends individual interests, bringing together rep agencies from across the country in an unprecedented, shared commitment to remind retailers to prioritize business relationships built on trust and extensive expertise that can’t be found anywhere else,” added Bristol.

Steve Allegrezza is IHFRA’s executive director.

“We strive to empower our members with networking opportunities, support them with exclusive benefits and resources, and advocate for their interests by sharing industry trends and lobbying on their behalf,” Allegrezza said, adding, “By collaborating with Reps Are Local Too, we can further our shared goals of maintaining the prominence of independent sales representatives and ensuring they are never removed from the equation.”