Business Improvements

One year ago, the computer that sat on my desk was almost as big as my desk. Remember the days when bigger computers meant better and more powerful computers? Well, when my digital dinosaur finally became extinct, I looked long and hard for a sleek, compact model to replace it. After scouring computer catalogs for latest and greatest desktops, I decided that the best desktop for me was…a laptop.

Clearly, I am not alone in my thinking. According to NPD Group research, dollar sales of notebook computers surpassed desktop computer sales in the U.S. for the fourth quarter last year. With sales of laptop computers now outpacing those of traditional desktop models, there is more reason than ever for retailers and manufacturers of business cases to be optimistic. Why? All these new “desktops” are specifically designed to travel and all portable computers need carrying cases.

But does a one-size carrying case fit all laptop computers? Maybe one day not too long ago, but not anymore. Today’s laptops are either smaller and lighter — or bigger and heavier — than the one I purchased a year ago. Business case manufacturers are rapidly responding to all of these changes and resizing computer cases to meet a variety of laptop formats, such as the portable 12.1" screen, standard 15" screen, and high graphic 17" displays. “We used to have two sizes of computer cases four years ago,” says Tom Larsen, president of Shoreline Cases and Accessories/TD Innovations. “But now we have six.”

Finding the right product mix and price points that make sense for the customer continues to be a challenge for retailers. For a look at the latest in business cases, please see “Road Warriors,” beginning on page 30, and the accompanying photo feature, “Taking Care of Business,” beginning on page 35. With plenty of pockets for tools and toys and featuring the finest fabrics, eye-popping colors, and ergonomic designs, there is something for everyone – and every laptop – out there.

One challenge that most travel goods retailers probably won’t have to face over the coming months is survival. Thanks to a stronger economy, increased air travel (especially business travel), and rising consumer confidence, our industry has a renewed optimism about its future for the first time in three years. Our annual State of the Industry Report, “Great Expectations,” begins on page 44. As Buzz Kaehler of Kaehler Travelworks tells us, “Business has been very good…our increases are related to a better economy in general and an increase in travel.” And, according to Bob Farone of Samsonite Company Stores, the wholesalers and retailers that he has spoken to “are the most upbeat they’ve been since before 9/11. Business is up to one degree or another.”

Is your business up? In an effort to determine how TGA can best support the travel goods industry, we have developed an online survey that asks one key question: What are the three biggest challenges you face to make your business even more profitable? We invite you to participate in TGA’s Challenge Survey.