2-26-10

Another week has flown by...had no news last week. Did you miss us?

So now we are back with our usual array of interesting tidbits of news and observations. First, don't forget the Deborah Flate class on Wednesday. We have received checks from most of you, but remember, if you have not yet paid, you are not registered. If you intend to pay at the door, please let us know and we will make a note of it.

In the column at the right, you will find the schedule of all the days CDT is closed for the rest of the year. I believe Design D'Vision will have the same schedule.

As we all know, due to the economic conditions, many customers are asking for extra discounts. Retailers are having to make price adjustments more than ever before. As a result many designers are asking CDT for additional discounts. It is CDT's policy to offer designers additional discounts, usually about 5%, occasionally 10% on large quantities or multiples of the same item. For example if you need a bolt of fabric, 50 yards or more, we can give you a discount. If you are ordering 20 identical mini blinds for a contract job, or as one designer did recently, 7 of the same Hooker table, we can help you out. However, if you need 20 yards of fabric, this is NOT a large order. This is a normal order. A discount is not usually warranted. $60 per yard fabric is not expensive. This is normal. If your client chooses an expensive fabric, that is up to you to give the discount, or show her something more within her budget. Please remember that YOU are the retailer. CDT is the wholesaler. We take great pains to keep our markups minimal, so that you can close your sales easier. Designers make can potentially make 40-50% on merchandise from CDT. I realize that you often cannot make a full markup, but bear in mind that CDT's percentage is MUCH less than that, and we are working on a discount off of wholesale, so we start at an even lower price when calculating our profit. It doesn't hurt to ask, and we are always eager to help you close your sales. If you have special circumstances, come talk to us. However, we need for you to understand why we must sometimes say "no."

Thanks to everyone who attended the Sheri Zeiman event yesterday, there was a good turnout, lunch was delicious, and as usual, Sheri's work was inspiring.

TONS of new accessories and several small accent pieces will be arriving shortly at CDT, as well as a Robert Allen Madison sofa. Stay tuned!
Ferguson Copeland

It's time to refresh your memories and remind you that CDT showcases the gorgeous furnishings from Ferguson Copeland. This high style designer collection features both case goods and upholstery with some nice occasional pieces thrown into the mix.
The upholstery is of outstanding quality, with designer styles and detailing that is really unique. A mix of both contemporary and traditional make it a great resource. Their fabrics are beautiful as well. The case goods are frequently available in a HUGE array of finishes, from simple to rustic to glitzy. Hand painted details are available on some items. Ferguson Copeland provides the perfect show stopping pieces designers are always looking for, including Larry Laslo's signature collection. If you have not looked at the catalog recently, make the time to get acquainted with this line. An added plus is that they are NOT in the retail stores, so your clients will not be able to shop you easily--hooray!

Hunter Douglas Tax Credits and Rebates

If you are selling or have sold Architella shades this year, your client may be eligible for a Federal Tax Credit up to $1,500!!! We NOW have the forms at CDT. There are some restrictions so make sure to check on the form. This is retroactive to January 1, 2009 and runs through December 31, 2010. What a fantastic selling tool!

Promos!!!
Free LITERISE on Vignette Tiered Modern Roman Shades through 2/28

February 1 Through April 15:
Duette Architella: $25 per shade rebate
Silhouette With Power Rise & Platinum Technology: $100 per shade rebate
Luminette Privacy Sheers with Power Glide 2.0: $100 per shade
Current Promotions

Running now through March 31, 2010, Artifacts is offering a great deal on upgraded finishes: You can choose any finish (including B, C or Premium) for the price of an A finish!
What a great opportunity to present this magnificent collection to your customers.

Century is offering an additional 10% off all orders of Leisure Outdoor Products through March 15.