Bethesda, Md. – The 14th Annual Decorative Plumbing & Hardware Association (DPHA) Annual Conference will provide brick and mortar showrooms the tools necessary to compete in an increasingly digital world. The DPHA Annual Conference will be held October 15-17, 2015 at the Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines, La Jolla, California.

“In today’s retail world there is an abundance of too many choices. Brick and mortar decorative plumbing and hardware showrooms need tools and strategies to stand out in a sea of competition. That’s why DPHA is bringing Steve Brazell to La Jolla to deliver the conference’s keynote address,” explains DPHA President Kate Brady of General Plumbing Supply, Walnut Creek, Calfornia.  

Brazell will explain the paradigm shift that has occurred in the retail world, and recommend actions showrooms can take to succeed in the new economy. Brazell founded Hitman Inc. more than two decades ago as a boutique branding firm that employs disruptive ideas and choice psychology strategies that will help DPHA member showrooms become destinations of choice in their markets.

The DPHA Annual Conference also will feature workshops offering guidance to help showrooms become a go-to resource for the design community, determine the value of their businesses if they were to be sold or passed on to the next generation, charge higher prices than the competition and win and hire the right personnel the first time.

The DPHA Annual Conference also features a product showcase.  The showcase is not a typical trade show. DPHA specifically limits the number of exhibitors to help ensure quality face time between the three principal parties in the supply chain – manufacturers, dealers and representatives. Each exhibit space is ten feet by eight. Exhibitors are encouraged to display new products, prototypes and design concepts.  

According to DPHA Conference and Showcase Committee Co-Chair Gary Erickson of Renaissance Design Studio, Beverly Hills, California, “DPHA Conference attendees are among the most knowledgeable and sophisticated principals of decorative plumbing and hardware showrooms in North America. There is no desire or need for a company to showcase its entire product line at the DPHA conference. DPHA members are looking to enhance their merchandise mix with products that speak to consumer demands.”

The cost to attend the DPHA conference is $775 per member and $1,475 per nonmember. Reservations can be made online or by contacting the Association at 7508 Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 305, Bethesda, MD  20814; 301-657-3642.  

Visit www.dpha.net