Nick Weiner, Senior Marketing Coordinator | Lancaster
How did business change for Lancaster in 2022 compared to 2021?
Even with the supply chain challenges in 2021 and 2022, Lancaster has been fortunate to maintain strong sales as a result of working more closely with our suppliers to obtain inventory when available. Even our customers have been more open to trying new products and brands due to disruption in the supply chain.
What were some challenges in 2022 and how did Lancaster address them?
The continuing supply chain issues have challenged us to be a more proactive company as far as purchasing and marketing. We have worked more closely with our vendor sales contacts, who have turned into inventory control specialists, to ensure we have product to sell.
What types of operational investments do you anticipate making in 2023 and what will be the impact on your customers/members?
We launched a new website in December in an effort to make our ordering process easier while providing more information to customers. Retailers can see the new site at lancasterco.com.
How are you helping your customers address technology?
We are now providing more instructional videos through our new website and through our e-newsletter. Lancaster’s Sundry Scene magazine also provides an outlet for information regarding technology in the industry. Customers who attend our buying shows can also meet with some of the key technology providers. Our sales team is trained to help our customers keep up with Lancaster’s technology advances. (Learn more about the Lancaster 2023 Buying Market taking place Feb. 17-18 in Orlando at lancasterco.com/events.)
What are your projections for 2023 for the industry and for your organization?
Despite inflationary pressures of 2022, we are still very optimistic for 2023 as the supply chain issues continue to improve. Lancaster also has several key initiatives launching in the coming months that we feel will keep our business strong in the coming year. Our customers will be exposed to many of these initiatives at our 2023 Buying Show in February.
To read our complete 2023 Market Measure, click here.
