PRO’s Workman Declares 2006 “Robust” for Group in “Mixed Bag” Year for Industry

After a year in which four retailers were added, and aggregate sales volume reached $2.5 billion among its 18 members, the Progressive Retailers Organization’s Dave Workman, executive director, characterized 2006 as “a watershed year for PRO Group in its 21 years of existence.” His remarks were delivered at a 2007 CES reception to the membership and its vendors, at which he contrasted the group’s performance against “mixed bag” industry results that challenged profitability across the CE retailing board. “It was a robust year, a fantastic year, the best on record,” Workman told the crowd, “which is a reflection of our longstanding relationships with you. We have never been stronger, or more cohesive.”

The group added New York’s Stereo Advantage and Harvey Electronics, Seattle’s Car Toys, and most recently, Houston’s Home Theater Store to its member roster last year.

“It’s one thing to acknowledge the work you’ve done,” he continued, “but you get paid for what you’re going to do in 2007.