The International Casual Furnishings Association has begun work on its first educational forum, slated for Feb. 14-16, 2017, at the Hotel Valley Ho in Scottsdale, Arizona.

“ICFA’s 2017 conference ‘Navigating the Future’ will combine giving our members educational content that they can put to work immediately in their businesses, and providing networking opportunities across our industry,” said Gary McCray, president of Klaussner Outdoor and 2016 chairman of ICFA. “In keeping with our focus on participation, the event is being planned by our conference committee of retailers, sales representatives, manufacturers and suppliers with an eye toward actionable content presented in a very inviting setting.”

Marcia Blake, Merchandise manager at Glen Raven Custom Fabrics and Debbie Stegman, president of Elegant Outdoor Living in Bonita Springs, FL, are co-chairs of the conference committee. Noting that an ideal program combines expert speakers and group breakout sessions, Blake said, “The conference committee is planning to provide rich educational content for business practice ideas, marketing, technology, sales/recruiting and will also help facilitate collaborative discussions between retailers, manufacturers, sales reps and outside vendors.”

In addition to the classroom sessions, the agenda offers a golf event and retail tour of area outdoor specialty stores.

Program and registration information will be available next month, including reduced rates for ICFA retailers and sales representatives.

www.icfanet.org