Beginning in 2009, the GFIA Education Foundation began hosting Independent Retailer Education Seminars in spring and fall. These seminars are held in various parts of the state and cover industry hot topics, trends and regulatory issues. Attendees are treated to a day of learning and lunch at no cost! These educational seminars are very popular, hosting an average of 50 independent retailers from across Georgia. The seminars are open to all independent retailers across the state.

Past seminars have included presentations by industry experts on healthcare reform, labor laws, employee benefits, and customer service. We have also hosted panel discussions with representatives from the WIC and SNAP state agencies.

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MARK YOUR CALENDAR TO ATTEND OUR NEXT
INDEPENDENT COUNCIL MEETING

​STAY TUNED FOR DETAILS ON OUR NEXT MEETING

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Topics from previous seminars include:

• WIC Reform 
• Navigating Healthcare Reform / Affordable Care Act
• FMS Independent Grocers Financial Survey
  
• Check Cashing Laws & Regulations
  
• Labor Laws Affecting the Independent Retailer
• Creative Merchandising Techniques
• Georgia Independent Retailer Trends and Benchmarks
• Marketing & Social Media
• “On Fire for Your Customers” motivational speaker
• Country of Origin Labeling​

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​Sponsorship Opportunities
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The Independent Retailer Education Seminars offer a rare opportunity for sponsors to gain exclusive access to many independent retailers in one venue. We sell a limited number of sponsorships to supplier companies for the seminars. All sponsors receive recognition on the GFIA website, in GFIA publications and at the seminar. Sponsors also have the exclusive ability to attend the seminar alongside the retailers.


Types of sponsorships available 

• Event Sponsor   $1,800
• Location Sponsor – provide location and meeting space for the seminar

Some sponsors also provide a facility tour for the attendees, although it is not a requirement.

For more information on sponsorship availability, please contact Kim Peterson.