LF Business Conference, April 28 at Aquinas College
Ask 10 people to define the word “sustainable and you’ll get 10 very different definitions. Sustainability is critical to our planet, our communities and our businesses. But what does this word really mean? What is the role of business when it comes to sustainability? And how do we help “design a sustainable community here in Grand Rapids?” This 2nd Annual Local First conference addressed these topics with speakers and breakout sessions to over 100 participants.
Our very own Jack of All, Rob McCarty spoke about Creative Marketing Strategies with Pam Cortese (Grand Office Supply), James Berg (Essence Restaurant Group) and Danny Beckett (Spearia). Rob and James talked about The Green Well Cartel and the tremendous success of this creative marketing strategy. There’s still a chance to become a member of The Green Well Cartel II.. Other discussions circled around sustainable business practices, keepin’ it local, consistency in your message, loyalty to your brand, meeting your customer where they are, ie – Facebook, twitter, your website, email, etc.
Keynote speaker Carl Erickson of Atomic Object shared his views on how he and his partners (which he includes as everyone in the office) practice open book management and a light “no closed door” policy which creates a team-oriented, collaborative environment. Interesting that almost half of his employees either walk or ride a bike to the office. Now, that’s sustainable!
Elissa Hillary, executive director of Local First, discussed the importance and the elements of a local living economy and the role locally owned businesses play in the sustainability of a community. It’s quite amazing how much difference you can make as a business or consumer by buying and supporting your local businesses. To find out more, visit the Local First website at www.localfirst.com.
During morning and afternoon breakout sessions, business owners discussed the benefits of a Local First membership, growing your business by going green, building social capital, succession planning and creative marketing tactics. Several participating local business executives took part in the sessions including Laurie Beard (Founder’s Bank & Trust), Eric Larson (Beene Garter), Amy Ruis (Art of the Table), Deb Steketee, Ph.D. (Aquinas College), Bill Stough (Sustainable Research Group), and Kyle Zimdar (Frames Unlimited).
Amy Emberling of Zingerman’s spoke during lunch about why Zingerman’s decided to stay local in Ann Arbor versus becoming a national chain. It seems to work – who doesn’t know about Zingerman’s! You can purchase Zingerman’s baked goods at Grand River Grocery, another local business and client.
The conference wrapped up with some fun and interesting perception exercises with Mary Jane Pories of Fishladder. Mary Jane is an excellent resource for motivating your team in a creative way by using improvisation to encourage innovative and sustainable thinking in your organization.
Nice Job Local First!