DIY TN NOv2013 November 2013 | Page 44

DIY Trade News November 2013 44 NEWS SPOTLIGHT FEATURE COMPANY PROFILE REPORT BACK OPINION PRODUCTS SPORT Mica Market 2013 Take a flourishing retail organisation, add its most valued suppliers and mix in a 30th birthday celebration. The end result is Mica Market 2013. Johann Gerber and Natalie Sanders attended the three days at the Wild Coast. Founding Supplier: Bosch Founding Supplier: Sprayon Founding Supplier: Ryobi Founding Supplier: Husqvarna Founding Supplier: Stanley Founding Supplier: Usabco Founding Supplier: Henkel Founding Supplier: L&G Tools Hopping on a plane at OR Tambo International Airport at midday and not at 6am this made 2013’s version all the more exciting. A quick drop off of the bags and is a wildly different experience. Add to that a two hour drive from Durban to the many hellos to friends in the industry and we were whisked off to a brilliant comedy Wild Coast on what is arguably the prettiest drive in this country, and you get the evening where Tannie Evita delivered brilliant political satire to the delegates idea of the building excitement at reaching our destination. attending this year’s Mica Market. This wasn’t just any Mica Market. It was Mica’s 30 birthday at Mica Market and th The tone was set and delegates were interacting against the backdrop of social drinks, delicious food and knowing that day two would bring sports and outdoor entertainment. On day two, however, the weather did not quite play along, yet delegates were divided into prearranged groups and some played golf while others went on a boat cruise or for a walk in the Petrified Forest. The day’s leisure activities were concluded with the build up to the fun; a dressup Bosch German Beerfest evening. With delegates dressed for the occasion and plenty of beer flowing, it was the Oompah band that set the vibe for the evening. The dance floor was quickly filled as the beer, and band, captured the delegates attention for an evening of fun and laughter. When we opened our eyes the next morning it was to brilliant sunshine. A spectacular day on the Wild Coast and off we went to attend work sessions throughout the morning. Speakers for the day included Mark Keating and Gary Bailey; Keating captivated the audience and dropped little hints and tips as to how delegates can help their sales staff drive more sales – a valuable experience for all in attendance. The conference came to a close that evening with the Mica Market Gala Banquet. This was an opportunity for Mica to celebrate with their founding members and suppliers whilst honouring the top achievers for 2012/13. This year Matus once again scooped the coveted Supplier of the Year Award. The amazing three night conference came to a close to the harmonious tunes of Arno Carstens and a magnificent fireworks display on the beachfront marking a milestone in Mica’s history. 30 years of retailing and a history including numerous highs. Here’s to the next 30!