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Eight New Sets Offer Dealers Unprecedented Value to Sell in Weak Economic Times VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. – As Pre-Market convenes this week in Chicago, Agio International recognizes there’s no bigger story in the halls of the Merchandise Mart than how the weak economy is affecting retailers. Agio has reacted to the new economic reality by producing a new product line that specialty retailers can sell, enjoy healthy margins and remain competitive. “Since last year’s Casual Show, we’ve taken a good, hard look at where the business was headed,” explained Doug Peppler, Agio’s vice president of sales. “We saw the changes in the economy, consumer spending and the price of goods, and we responded with substantial changes to add considerably more value to our lineup.” Agio will unveil its “Inflation Fighter” lineup at Pre-Market in July, including eight new sets specially designed and produced to give consumers choices they can’t get anywhere except at specialty dealers, Peppler said. “Our ‘Inflation Fighter’ collections bring the value and the product that are appealing to the consumer and will sell from the retail floor,” Peppler predicted. Agio’s response includes Alumicast®, sling, and all-weather wicker collections; different tabletop options such as stone and cast; and great selections of fabrics and finishes. Agio’s options will give retailers customizable price points to reach consumers looking for that elusive stone top dining set for under $2,500, according to Peppler. But with the outdoor room concept continuing to rage on with consumers and designers, Agio will also continue to push up. Specialty retailers marketing toward the top 25 percent of income homeowners will have products appealing to their selection and price point tastes. “We’re still offering some very high end collections – such as Northwoods and Calypso – which our retailers will be very excited to see.” According to Peppler, people continue to use their outdoor rooms, and many more consumers are including plans for making outdoors rooms play a more meaningful part of their home. “Regardless of whether consumers can afford gas, travel or new homes, the Boomers, Gen Xers and Gen Ys are deciding to enjoy their homes and families more every year. And that bodes well for our industry as a whole,” he said. About Agio |