BIC Graphics Discontinuing Sheaffer Writing Instrument Sales
On August 21, 2014, the BIC Group announced the signing of a purchase agreement with A.T. Cross Company for the sale of the Sheaffer business. On November 10, 2014, the BIC Group announced that BIC Graphic and A.T. Cross had signed a global distribution agreement for the continued sale by BIC Graphic of the Sheaffer line of fine writing instruments and Sheaffer branded accessories in the promotional products and business gift channels of trade around the world.
As this distribution agreement comes to an end, BIC announced the remaining deadlines for BIC conducting business under this agreement.
• The last date for placing an order for Sheaffer writing instruments is December 11, 2015.
• The last date that BIC Graphic will ship an order of Sheaffer writing instruments is January 29, 2016.
• Sheaffer branded bags and accessories will continue to be sold through 2016.
Tim Williams, general manager, Sheaffer stated, "We would like to thank BIC Graphic for their many years of dedication in developing Sheaffer business gift sales across the for their many years of dedication in developing Sheaffer business gift sales across the world."
"The Sheaffer line has long been a prestigious part of the BIC Graphic catalog," said Edgar Hernandez, vice president/general manager of BIC Graphic Global. "We wish A.T. Cross and the team at Sheaffer all the best and continued success."
SAGE Expands ShowLink Capabilities
SAGE has released ShowLink 6.0, the only lead retrieval service built specifically for the promotional products industry. Using an iOS or Android device, suppliers can scan badges at industry trade shows to collect leads and schedule follow-ups. The new version, 6.0, has a new, refreshed interface focused on ease of use. It also includes a new automatic distributor verification feature, and advanced statistics.
David Natinsky, president of SAGE, commented, "We are continually adding new features to our services based on the feedback from existing customers and SAGE ShowLink is no different. We know exhibitors are becoming more strategic with how they follow up after tradeshows and want a lead retrieval system that reflects that. The new ShowLink features offer a more personalized and effective experience."
The latest version includes a distributor verification feature, which will tell the supplier right away whether or not the attendee is a verified distributor in the SAGE database. This unique feature will help suppliers verify new leads quicker and more efficiently.
Consumer Confidence Lower than Expected
The University of Michigan’s Consumer Sentiment Index showed an October reading of 90, which was up from September’s 87.2 reading but missed economists' estimates for a reading of 92.5. Slower economic growth, volatile stock markets and turmoil overseas continued to weigh on consumers' confidence in October.