Retailers attending theOFA Short Course, July 11-14 in Columbus, Ohio, can pick and choose from a variety of activities geared toward garden centers.
OFA will once again host its popular garden center tour on July 11. Retailers will get the chance to visit Delhi Flower & Garden Center, Meadow View Growers, Siebenthaler’s Far Hills Garden Center and Berns Garden Center. The tour departs the Greater Columbus Convention Center at 7:30 a.m., and will return by 6 p.m. The pre-registration price for the tour is $105. The OFA and ANLA discount price is $80.
Throughout the four days of the Short Course, there will be many events for independent garden centers. The following key events will be open to all registered attendees:
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All-Industry Trade Show: More than 550 companies in 1,500 exhibit spaces will be showcasing the latest innovations in plant material, equipment, products and services.
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Keynote Address: Returning after a several-year absence, the keynote address is a must-attend event with Fred Kirschenmann of the Leopold Center for Sustainability speaking on “Future Challenges and Opportunities in our Food and Agriculture Enterprises.”
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See the Latest Trends: The New Product Showcase and New Varieties Display will highlight some of the best new introductions in plant material and hard goods, while Project: Green Industry Sustainability Showcase will provide suggestions on eco-friendly products.
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Merchandising ShowCase: The Retail Experience continues with a hands-on Merchandising ShowCase that includes more interactive displays with ideas attendees can take home and use right away.
-- Sarah

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