December 9, 2008 Issue: 48 Retail Alliance Newsletter   Greetings! Hampton Roads is home to an estimated 18,000 retail businesses and Retail Alliance represents many of these merchants. As an organization made up of and for retailers, we continuously offer tools and services to make businesses more successful and effective. The slow economy is increasingly affecting the retail world. Retailers are searching now more than ever, for ways to promote their business and gain traffic. If you are in the business of advertising or marketing media, from traditional media to unique communications tools, these entrepreneurs are your customers. Plan now to be one of the limited number of exhibitors at MediaFest 2009! The four-hour event will showcase Hampton Roads media while providing exposure to local restaurants. MediaFest 2009 is jam-packed with information and entertainment. From unique advertising novelties to a relaxation zone featuring mini massages; this is one trade show you won't want to miss! Exhibitor rates Member rate   Non-member rate $395                       $595 Food Vendor rate $200+ provide food samples If you or someone you know is interested in becoming an exhibitor at Media Fest 2009 contact Jen Webber at 757.455.9323 or jwebber@retail- alliance.com. MediaFest Smith Mountain Lake is scheduled for 4-8 p.m. March 24 at Mariners Landing.  For information about this exceptional opportunity to reach merchant customers in Western Virginia, contact Juanita Thomas at jthomas@retail-alliance.com. Visit www.retail-alliance.com to download the registration form. Be Sure to Visit a Participating HWW Retailer! Participants, if you have not received your donation can or window sign please contact Tanya Profancik at tprofancik@retail-alliance.com immediately! Windows will be judged randomly this week and next week without forewarning, so be prepared. Winners will be contacted on December 15, 2008 in both categories and invited to attend  the Holiday Window Works Awards Breakfast on December 19, 2008 at 8:00 a.m. to accept their award. The breakfast is open to all Retail Alliance members for $20. For more information  on the HWW contest contact Tanya Profancik at 757.455.9309. NRF Survey: Shoplifting Losses Higher This Year Shoplifting losses are expected to reach $34.8 billion this year, according to an NRF survey, with job losses and the dismal economy contributing to the increase. "With most of our shoplifting complaints this time of year, the suspects are trying to steal presents for family and friends," said Sgt. Joe Watts of the Indiana State Police. Shoplifters also seem to be getting more aggressive, even struggling with store employees and police over merchandise. The Tribune-Star has the full story. Co-Op Advertising Retail Alliance is offering numerous co-op advertising options for members in coming weeks.   Discover Magazine (several city editions still available; one-year shelf-life) $615 1/6 page ad Portfolio Weekly (Hampton Roads) $300 1/8 page ad (with color) Please contact your Director of Membership Development for complete details. On the Southside Carlene Bowers at (757) 455- 9311 or Janet Balestino at (757) 455-9324. On the Peninsula contact Jodi Weygand or Viktor Mays at (757) 926-5306. In This Issue Be Sure to Visit a Participating HWW Retailer! NRF Survey: Shoplifting Losses Higher This Year Co-Op Advertising with Retail Alliance Upcoming Retail 2 Retail at Amore in Portsmouth Coupons Are Chic Again Unique Gift for the Holidays! Member Announcement Retail 2 Retail 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, December 16 Amore Casual Italian Dining 606 High Street Portsmouth, VA 23704 Join fellow retailers for an entertaining evening of networking and fun, complete with refreshments. Retail 2 Retail takes place the first and third Tuesday of each month and is free to RETAIL ALLIANCE members. To RSVP call Jen Webber at 757.455.9323   For directions to this R2R and to view upcoming R2Rs click here. Coupons Are Chic Again With the economy in recession, coupons could become popular again with marketers and consumers. Already, Procter & Gamble is producing a retail version of its BrandSaver coupon booklet, and Valpak Direct Marketing Systems has begun a national advertising campaign. The New York Times has the full story. Unique Gift for the Holidays! By now everyone has read, seen or heard about the renovation that is currently taking place at one of Norfolk's premier locations, Town Point Park. The turning Point Project is underway and the public now has the opportunity to pave their way into Norfolk history. With the Holiday Season now upon us, the difficult task of selecting gifts for individuals, families, groups and companies is also here. The perfect gift is now available with commemorative pavers and bricks that will be installed in the newly renovated Town Point Park (Opening July 2009). Click here for more details! Member Announcement The Greater Suffolk Council will host its second New Year's Eve Celebration on December 31, 2008 at the Hilton Garden Inn.  The black tie optional gala will feature heavy hors d'oeuvres, seasonal refreshments and live music by The Brothership.  Tickets are $75 apiece if purchased before December 15, and $85 apiece thereafter.  Special packages which include two event tickets, a room at the Hilton Garden Inn and brunch the following morning are also available for $275.  Tickets and packages can be purchased at DB Bowles Jewelers.  Tickets will also be available through the GSC website at www.greatersuffolk.com

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