When false rumors circulated that Apple CEO Steve Jobs had a heart attack back in October Apple stock took a 10 point dive…

Why…because many investors look at Steve Jobs as the root of the “apple,” tree.  Before they think about the company’s amazing innovations like the ipod, iphone and macbook…they think about good ol’ Steve. For them he alone is the life-line of the company.

The problem with Steve is that like everyone else he is a mere mortal.

Although no one can discount the leaders behind a company the danger comes when their is a perception or even worse a reality that the company can not succeed at the same level without its founders.

So ask yourself…does your company have a legacy?

What happens if you want to retire, if you get sick…or if you just want to move on?

Are you planning on selling to a larger company…another individual or even handing it off to a family member?

Whatever the future of your company may be…start planning for it.

When you’re ready…. make it public to your investors and customers.  By helping to build confidence in your successor you’ll be taking pro-active steps to building a positive legacy for your company.

By planning ahead you’ll be able to start structuring the transition whether it is a year or a decade away.

Importing into the U.S. has just gotten a little more complicated. In this week’s California Apparel News, the paper highlights strict new importer requirements which go into effect January 26, 2008.

The new “10+2 Rule” contains a laundry list of data required from the importer as well as the ocean carrier that must be supplied before imported product can be received at a US port.

Also, since one ship could be carrying product from multiple companies if one company is not compliant the entire shipment will be delayed until the proper paperwork is completed.

One of our members recently emailed about receiving frequent last minute cancellations from retailers who are experiencing slow sales.

Unfortunately, most stores are experiencing slow sales and if you give them any loophole to cancel they could be very likely to take you up on it. So what can you do to avoid last minute cancellations?

Here are a few tips….

1.  Have a Policy and Make it Plain: Be very clear about your cancellation policies.  You or your sales rep should verbally express your policy to your customers and not simply leave it to the fine print.

2.  Keep a Credit Card on File: Customers typically aren’t happy about deposits but if you do have an agreement to sale, request to keep a credit card on file that you can charge when you ship.  By already having an agreement along with a customer’s payment information customers won’t be so quick to look for a illegitamte way out.

3.  Establish Good Rapport: Having an excellent relationship with your customers can make all the difference.  Tough economic times present the perfect opportunity to upgrade your customer service game.  Check in with your stores, make sure they are satsifed and happy with your products. Offer to make an apperance or do a trunk show.

Bottom Line…If you do your part your customers are much more likely to do theirs.

Do you manufacturer or sell kids or baby clothing?

If so check out the this informative LA Times article about how spankin’ new federal compliance laws are affecting the apparel manufacturing industry.

The costs and effort it takes to comply with these new testing requirements can make a huge impact on your production time line as well as your bottom line.

In this economic climate we know this is the last thing you need so we’re doing what we can to help companies stay on the right side of these new laws.

We started by raking through the details and deadlines in a free members seminar last month.  But if you missed it don’t worry….we’re planning another one for February.  Stay tuned to the FBI calendar for the date and time.

Ever notice that number in the back of the tags on your clothing…  Well if you’re an apparel manufacturer you should know that is called an RN Number.

Registered Identification Numbers, commonly known as RN numbers are obtained from the Frederal Trade Comission and required on the tag of any textiles that do not bear a company’s actual registered name.

If you have your company’s registered name on your tags the same as it appears on other business documents like purchase orders and invoices..no worries.

But if your items are marked simply with a trademark or brand name you’ll definitely need to get your own special RN number that identifies your company.

Interestingly enough, RN’s are pretty easy to get… don’t take long and you can even apply online .

Also like the best things in life…RN numbers are Free!

Who Knew….

I like to think this miserable economy is not the “New Economy.”  More like a “Temporary One..”

Many people are asking…How Do I Keep My Business Afloat in these Troubled Times?

What Opportunities Exist?  How Do I Re-work my Business Plan?  Should I Take a Risk on Something New?

This Thursday from 4-6pm we’ve got you covered.

We’ve assembled a panel of industry experts to answer some of your most pressing questions…and talk about how to not only survive but find the hidden jewels in any business circumstance.

Yes, most would agree things are “challenging,” right now but you can make it though…and emerge even better than before.

Join us This Thursday from 4-6pm for this important State of The Industry discussion.

Click Here for More Details

The Las Vegas shows will be here before you know it.

MAGIC…POOL and PROJECT are some of the hottest opportunities of the season for both sales and exposure.

So are you ready?

A good mix of pre, post and aftershow marketing are the keys to success for any trade show you decide to participate in…but you have to plan ahead.  Starting now!

Check out our interview with Melanie Wood from Advanstar (The producers of the MAGIC Show), for tips on how you can prepare and Get the Most out of any trade show.

Also keep in mind even if you aren’t attending these shows…they are still the opening bells for the sales season.  Check out Melanie’s tips to make sure you don’t get left behind….

Good Luck!

Ready to Expose Your Line to a Whole New World?

HoneyShed.com; is an exciting new opportunity for emerging designers to promote their brands over the web using the power of video…

This is a FREE opportunity and a fantastic way for emerging brands to expose their lines to a highly motivated audience of shoppers.

To get started:

1.  Visit www.honeyshed.com.

2.  Click on the Homegrown Channel (which is dedicated to emerging brands)

3.  Look for the “Upload Your Video banner” and upload!

For all the details visit honeyshed.com or you may also contact Producer Beth Le Manach at lemanach@honeyshed.com.