Kirschman’s Staying At Nationwide

By Steve Smith -- TWICE, 4/20/2006

Winston-Salem, N.C. — Kirschman’s, a five-store appliance and electronics retailer with $60 million in annual sales and based in New Orleans, has chosen to stay with the Nationwide Marketing Group.

Nationwide released a statement saying that the chain, which opened in 1914, has returned to Nationwide. Kirschman’s was approached by MARTA, a division of AVB/Brand Source, to change its affiliation. MARTA issued a press release more than a week ago saying the retailer had become a new member. A MARTA spokesperson confirmed this morning that Kirschman’s is no longer a member of its organization.

Joe Clavijo, appliance and electronics VP at Kirschman’s, said, “After additional consideration and a more thorough review of Nationwide Marketing Group programs, marketing resources and personal relationships that we feel privileged to be part of, Kirschman’s has elected to remain a member of Nationwide.”

Clavijo singled out “the time and attention” that Nationwide Marketing Group has spent on Kirschman’s account. “We look forward to working closely with you in the future to strengthen our partnership and grow the business,” he said.

Robert Weisner, executive VP of Nationwide Marketing Group, said, “We are very happy with Kirschman’s decision to remain part of the largest merchandising group available and feel it is a privilege to be able to work with such a fine retail company.”

Nationwide Marketing Group has approximately 2,700 members throughout the United States — independent retailers with more than 7,000 storefronts and $10 billion in annual sales.