$igns of the times

Those who have been regular readers of my column over the years – by the way, Mom and Dad, I’ve been meaning to say thanks for a while – probably would count me in the “glass half full” school. In fact, they might even elect me Class Prez. I’ve long preferred up to down, high to low, happy to sad. It’s just my nature.

But it’s my job to report the goings on of this industry as they are actually going on – without a coating of sugar. To do otherwise wouldn’t be fair to you, the reader, whose very professional existence depends, at least peripherally, on the business press’ ability to scour the gardening landscape – the scary nooks along with the festive crannies – and to share the findings so retailers can plan accordingly.

SO PLAN THIS: The year 2010 will leave its predecessor in the dust. OK, I realize that this prediction isn’t hanging me out on the longest limb of the tree. Every year since the Great Depression would leave 2009 in its dust – economically speaking, anyway. But, because economy plays ... oh ... THE MOST SIGNIFICANT ROLE OF ALL, where business is concerned, this not-so-bold claim still carries oh-so-significant clout – whether it’s right or wrong.

Here’s why I believe it’s right:

I’ve discovered a few things about human nature during five decades plus of studying. One lesson learned is that optimists call themselves “optimists.” Pessimists dub themselves “realists.” During a recent visit to AmericasMart in Atlanta, not one person I talked with tried to “get real” with me.

Not one.

I inquired about traffic at the show. It was great, everyone said. How about sales? Better than last year, sometimes by a wide margin – usually, even. And the mood of the folk who had to determine whether they wanted to kick tires or actually drive? They came to Georgia with figurative gloves on, not boots.

CLEARLY, THE CONSENSUS during the show was that those glove-wearing drivers have taken the wheel, finally, and have turned the corner, finally. And now they’re ready to put the pedal to the metal.

Normally, I would be hesitant to base a trend on one visit to one show during one month in one year. But this is a national show, and this is a pivotal month – and a most-crucial year. And, I’m telling you, the mood shift from what I saw at AmericasMart a year ago to what I witnessed this go-round was remarkable.

For those who don’t speak “optimist,” remarkable is a good thing.

 
yyoungblood@gie.net