PIC Division to Update Study

In 2006, the Professional Installation (PIC) Division of NARMS published a study called, “Building out the Future of Retail.” The study defined what PIC companies are, what they do, and where they do it. The study and the companion document were well received and have been serving this division well since publishing. The PIC committee has decided that it is time to refresh, renew and augment the project in time for the 2010 Spring Conference in Tampa. If you are a PIC member company, or part of your business falls into this segment, NARMS will be calling on you for your input.

During the last two PIC committee conference calls, plans have emerged for a refresh of the 2006 project. The new project is being dubbed, “Continuing to Build out the Future of Retail.” NARMS has partnered with The Christopher Group, who also conducted the last study in 2006.

The study is a position paper that helps build the case for looking to a professional installation company when undertaking new stores, remodels, acquisition conversions or category remodels, etc. It will define the companies, what part of the process they execute and the unique quality, time and cost saving expertise they bring to the table. This study will also update the size of the potential marketplace and present several case studies that demonstrate the division in action.

The process for the research will include extensive monitoring of top retailer plans for the near future, interviews with PIC industry leaders and an on-line survey that will be sent to all PIC member companies. The goal of the committee is 100 percent participation by the members of the division. Since this research will benefit all PIC members, the goal seems reasonable.

A breakout session is scheduled for the unveiling of the research at the 2010 NARMS Spring Conference at the Saddlebrook Resort near Tampa. Stay tuned for more details and look for the on-line survey soon.