Retail Consultant Will Share Strategies that Give Businesses an Edge

Main Street Iowa, the City of West Des Moines and Historic Valley Junction will present acclaimed speaker, trainer, author and retail consultant Margie Johnson on Wednesday, Oct. 24.

The session runs from noon to 1:30 p.m., at West Des Moines City Hall, 4000 Mills Civic Parkway. Reservations are $12 per person and include a full lunch. RSVP by Oct. 19 to Naomi Hamlett at naomi.hamlett@wdm.iowa.gov or (515) 222-3628.

Johnson’s 30-year career as an entrepreneur and business expert has led her to develop customer-centered strategies and solutions that work, the release said. These strategies have given thousands of businesses the competitive edge needed to survive and thrive.

For interviews, marketing materials or direct contact with Margie, contact Jamie Lamb at office@valleyjunction.com or (515) 222-3642.

Since 1985, Shop Talk, located in Virginia Beach, VA, has served as a specialized consultation and research firm concentrated in retail, hospitality, health care, and financial industries. With 24 years of experience as a partner and general manager of the Galleon Esplanade and as secretary/treasurer of Cabana East, a corporation owning various businesses including Cabana East Motel and A Restaurant By George in Nags Head, N.C., Johnson brings a wealth of experience to her clients.

Her local and national accolades include the Fred Lazarus National Retail Federation Award, North Carolina Employer of the Year Award, Inside Business 2006 Women in Business Achievement Award, 1998 Outstanding Woman of Hampton Roads, Chairman of the Board of Retail Alliance 2009-2010, and East Carolina University Legacy Leadership Award 2010.

Johnson received her B.S. from East Carolina University and has completed postgraduate work at the Management Development Institute at the University of North Carolina.

Historic Valley Junction is home to over 150 unique stores, restaurants and independent businesses, each with its own historic character. Established in 1893, Valley Junction is one of central Iowa’s most distinctive attractions. Visit our website, www.valleyjunction.com for more information, our calendar of events, and a complete business directory.