On Monday, July 21, Closets & Organized Storage magazine will present an all-day workshop, sponsored by KCD Software and moderated by Michaelle Bradford, editor of Closets & Organized Storage magazine. This symposium will educate designers, fabricators, retailers, and installers on the most current design, marketing, and business topics relevant to these industry professionals seeking to profit from this growing and exciting market niche.

Symposium schedule:
8:15 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.: Breakfast

9 a.m.: Intro and Welcome: Michaelle Bradford, editor of Closets & Organized Storage

9:10 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.: Maximizing Vertical Space and Niche & Hidden Storage Solutions
Speaker: TBD 
This session moves beyond traditional closet layouts, exploring innovative vertical storage solutions, specialized compartments for accessories, and optimizing underutilized areas. We’ll delve into pull-down systems, hidden storage, and custom solutions for unique items.

10:05 a.m. – 10:55 a.m.: Material Alchemy: Blending Sustainable & Luxury Materials for Modern Closets
Speaker: Miss Sjerven, Northern Contours
Exploring the intersection of eco-conscious materials and high-end aesthetics. This session will cover sustainable wood alternatives, recycled materials, and innovative finishes, demonstrating how to create luxurious closets with a reduced environmental footprint.

11:05 a.m. – 11:55 am.: Optimizing CNC and Automation for Closet Manufacturing
Speaker: John Mitteer, MachMotion
Looking into the latest advancements in CNC technology and automation for closet component manufacturing. This session will cover optimizing workflows, reducing waste, and improving production efficiency through advanced machinery and software.

Noon – 1:00 p.m.: Lunch

1:05 p.m. – 1:55 p.m.: Lighting: Total Solutions for the Whole Home
Speaker: Ashleigh Lawson, vice president of sales, Elektra 
What if you could incorporate customization and adaptability throughout your entire home? It’s important to open people’s minds to the idea that it’s possible to create ambiance and evoke emotions throughout the house without limitations. This can be achieved using lighting solutions that allow for cross-compatibility in all flexible spaces. Homeowners desire more diversity and options when it comes to lighting, making it essential for cabinet and closet design and manufacturing firms to think outside the box and develop solutions that go beyond traditional offerings.

2:10 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.: Building a Strong Brand and Customer Experience in the Closet Industry
Speaker: Mike Carson, president, Inspired Closets Chicago
Addressing the evolving retail landscape and how closet businesses can build a strong brand, enhance the customer experience, and thrive in a competitive market. This session will cover marketing strategies, online presence, showroom design, and customer service excellence.

3:00 p.m. – 3:10 p.m.: Break

3:10 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.: Strategies for Growth, Profitability, and Sustainable Success
Speaker: Heather Fedewa, The Business of Closets
This session will provide actionable strategies for closet design company owners and managers to achieve sustainable growth and profitability.

Topics will include: Developing a robust business plan and financial forecasting; effective marketing and sales strategies for attracting and retaining clients, streamlining operations and improving efficiency; building a strong team and fostering a positive company culture; managing inventory and supply chain effectively; leveraging technology for business management and growth; and how to handle economic downturns, and how to prepare for future growth. To register, visit awfsfair.org/education.

All attendees will receive admission to the 40 Under 40 Leadership reception, sponsored by PaintLine and Pennsylvania Lumbermens Mutual Insurance Co. (PLM).