THE BUSINESS ISSUE
September/October 2005 

Volume 30, Number 4

THE COVER
Z-Attache’s Crisp U-7 Attaché Urban in high-density, closed foam and nickel finish hardware, accommodates large-screen laptop computers and legal size files, and converts to a street-ready backpack, $189.95.

Photograph By Kerry Pittenger
Model: Alex Valente, Greer Lange Model & Talent Agency

Fake Goods a Real Issue for America’s Small Businesses
Good ideas that improve people’s lives, advance the development of technology, and make our nation stronger have always been at the core of the American economy. Unfortunately, the benefits of stealing intellectual property have captured the attention of thieves around the world. 
BY JON DUDAS, U.S. PATENT AND TRADEMARK OFFICE

Business Class
Today’s on-the-go lifestyle is helping to drive the business case market. Thanks to cell phones, laptops, and wireless Internet connections, Americans are carrying their lives with them. BY CHRIS DYAR


Cases to Bring Your Business Up a Notch
At one time, the one-size-fits-all, black Ballistic nylon or leather case dominated the market. Not anymore. Between casual dress and virtual offices, anything goes. photographs by kerry pittenger | art direction by kim wong

30 and Counting
As Travel Goods Showcase prepares to turn 30 in October, we focus 
on the magazine's second decade when wheels were a new phenomenon 
and manufacturers started looking at luggage as a fashion item. 
by john misiano

The State of Retail and The Travel Goods Industry Today: Hopeful & Optimistic
The steady rise in retail sales, the increase in business travel, and moderate economic growth all point to 2005 being a strong year for both retail and the travel goods industry. Despite record gas prices this summer, consumers are continuing to open their wallets and loosen their purse strings. by john misiano

Editor’s Note
“Hitting Home.”
by michele marini pittenger

Travel Bits
Travel news from around the world. 

News & Notes
Travel, retail, manufacturer, association, and trade show news.

TGA News Briefs
Information and Association updates, Democracy in Action, and Member Profiles.

CAPITAL BEAT
Bashing China: How the New National Pastime in the Nation’s Capital Could Affect You and Your Business
While many in our industry think positively about China’s impact on our industry and the economy, the average American is not sharing that view. 
by nate herman


ALL BUSINESS
Matching Customer Service to Customer Experience Levels
BY PATRICIA M. JOHNSON AND RICHARD F. OUTCALT, THE RETAIL OWNERS INSTITUTE

Industry Events

Industry Buzz
People, products, movings, and milestones.

Ad Index

Classifieds

Buyer’s Guide

The It Factor
Watches: There are certain things that just have it.

Copyright © 2005. Travel Goods Association