Out with the old

End of the year brings time for reflection

By James Fisher

Jim Fisher is CEO of Houston-based IMST Corp. IMST is a site selection, market analysis, and sales forecasting firm providing data needed to maximize the potential of retail businesses and locations. Jim can be reached at (800) 231-4678 or jfisher@imstcorp.com

Well, we have a wrap on the annual NACS meeting and virtually all other industry events as this is being written; the only exception that comes to mind is the SIGMA annual meeting, to which I am flying as this is being written. At this point in the year it does serve some purpose to reflect on what we (as individuals and companies) did and did not accomplish during this one 12-month period that only happens once. Did we take advantage of the time given us by the year 2006 or did we waste some of it? Do we reflect and have positive memories on what was accomplished or do we recall more somber memories of opportunities lost?

As what historically happens, we (as an industry group) probably had some of both. Our industry certainly did experience some historical setting periods this year in terms of fuel pricing and the ramifications that such unpredictable movement patterns created. The pricing cycle that occurred did hurt the retail sector within our industry in terms of not only margin loss, but also in terms of community reputation and the perspective given by so much of the consumer base. It was a negative influence placed on our retailers that should not have been endured, and they met the challenges by responding quite admirably. Those in the absolute forefront in terms of daily customer contact represented this industry in a totally professional manner during a period of unique events that strung together, creating a nightmarish scenario that could not be anticipated nor responded to in a proactive manner.

Prior to boarding this airplane tonight, I completed (today) one of the final industry charity golf events for 2006. This industry must recognize itself with tremendous pride for what it gives back in terms of its philanthropic work; it is truly amazing. Each year our industry raises millions of dollars to help children, disaster victims, those that have faced life challenges, churches, institutions and so many other specific causes and/or events that are unique to specific communities.

The three-day meeting that just concluded (and which I was attending) is no exception; it raised tens of thousands of dollars to find cures for some very specific childhood diseases. It is so rewarding to participate in industry events that have as a special part of the specific conference, meeting, gathering, etc. a dedicated fund-raising portion that will benefit so many others outside of our industry and unknown to us. Our industry is filled with those personalities and companies from both the retail and supply/vendor segments that have more loving and generous hearts than most people (outside of our industry) can imagine. I am very proud to have been a member for nearly 30 years of a business community that many times wears its heart on its sleeves and cares so much for others.

Many can say much about “big oil”, but the “oil” I see everyday coming from those customers, peers, associates and strategic partners with whom I am so fortunate to be exposed to flows in the form of life-giving fluid that results in so much good to so many. Oh, yes, so many want to continuously discuss the mystical bad associated with “oil” and all that is meant by the word itself. However, it is very clear to me and so many others that the great acts of kindness and generosity this industry does on a daily basis ensures that “oil” stands for strength shown through kindness. I believe 2006 is a year that should be filled with great pride in terms of what this industry has accomplished in terms of its philanthropic and charitable activities.

So, with this issue of NPN and this writing of “The Last Word” column another year comes to an end. I just want to thank so many of you for all of the kind words stated, e-mails received and discussions relating to me your feelings about this column. They mean a great deal and I am simply thankful that you gain some insight and benefit that adds to your personal and business life.

I look forward to sitting down in a couple of weeks and writing the first column for 2007. I will see you on this page in about a month in a new and challenging year. Have a wonderful Holiday Season and the most prosperous of New Years!