The July 17 issue of HOMEWORLD BUSINESS® features the 18th annual Impact Merchants special report. Housewares suppliers, representing the categories that HomeWorld covers, once again were asked to nominate buyers and merchandisers believed to have made a significant impact during the past year.
The selection of the 21 Impact Merchant winners is not intended as a definitive list of the best merchants in housewares retailing. Votes went to several more merchandisers than those featured. This year’s honorees represent buyers in given categories that received the majority of votes by vendors polled.
Voters were asked to give added weight to merchandising creativity, trend and marketing astuteness, attention to detail, openness to risk, flexibility, relationship building and the ability to deliver a profitable program for both the vendors and retailer while providing value to consumers. One thing this year’s Impact Merchants share is a vote of respect by their vendors. In today’s unpredictable retail environment, that vote really counts.
Tracy Godshall, Bed Bath & Beyond, Basic Housewares Buyer
As Bed Bath & Beyond continues to evolve its retail business model with new approaches to merchandising, product assortment and store layouts, kitchenware suppliers said they are turning to the store’s merchants more than ever for feedback.
Tracy Godshall, the retailer’s basic housewares buyer, is a merchant that vendors said they can rely on for feedback and direction.
A 2017 HOMEWORLD BUSINESS® Impact Merchant, Godshall has been with Bed Bath & Beyond since 1999 and has been recognized by suppliers for her approachable demeanor, loyalty and industry knowledge.
“Tracy is insightful about the category as a whole and diligent about finding the right mix of product,” said one vendor. “She often reaches out with questions and is willing to share ideas.”
In addition, her team-oriented approach has also helped vendors when it comes to product development and merchandising ideas. Her creativity and knowledge in both areas is well regarded by vendors and is appreciated especially when it comes to the crowded kitchenware category.
“Her straight-forward approach to store sets and product decisions makes moving projects forward effortless,” said another kitchenware vendor. “She is open to reviewing new ideas and looks at opportunities with an early eye for trends, giving her an open mind to grow the business based on Bed Bath & Beyond’s strengths and market needs.”
2017 HomeWorld Business Impact Merchants (click on name for profile):
- Jennifer Cotreau, Wayfair
- Liz Anderson, Sam’s Club
- Jason Kloster, Walmart
- Tamara Rosenkranz, Williams Sonoma
- Melissa Cameron, Tuesday Morning
- Alison Alness-Richmond, Target
- Dan Williams, Best Buy
- Carol Nakauchi, Dollar General
- Natalia Goncalves, BrandsMart
- Jason Perez, Costco
- Tracy Godshall, Bed Bath & Beyond
- Kanani McNerthney, Kroger/Fred Meyer
- Jason Rogers, Walmart
- Karen & Brad Hughes, Artichoke
- Kim Kimbriel, The Container Store
- Alison Fosbenner, Lowe’s
- Harry Jacobs, HomeGoods
- Amy Eshuys, Christmas Tree Shops
- Sean Le Deit, Houzz
- Brad Wiesner, Bed Bath & Beyond
