GMDC|Retail Tomorrow on path to dissolve
At the end of the year, GMDC|Retail Tomorrow is dissolving as a member-owned nonprofit.
The Colorado Springs, Colo.-based organization said following its thorough strategic reviews, and based on a member vote on a board-approved resolution, GMDC|Retail Tomorrow will dissolve as a member-owned nonprofit, effective December 31.
Patrick Spear, president and CEO, recently shared a guest column with Store Brands on how private brands can leverage the subscription model and e-commerce. Regarding the dissolution, Spear expressed his disappointment.
“We are responding to our members’ evolving business needs and a managed dissolution at year end is the responsible decision to make in service of the industry, our members and our team,” he said “It has been our privilege to serve our members and the industry, and we cherish the relationships we have built and cultivated throughout the last half century.”
GMDC|Retail Tomorrow had been serving its partners for more than 50 years, facilitating engagement between nonfood industry, retailers, manufacturers and consumers to create general merchandise and health, beauty and wellness category growth opportunities. In 2020 and 2021, GMDC|Retail Tomorrow pivoted to 100% virtual events.
The association said shifting retailer and wholesaler needs due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which has significantly affected business practices and policies, and uncertainty regarding live industry conferences in the coming year, forced the group to consider a dissolution.
The GMDC website, member area and GMDC mobile app will all be active and available for use by members through the end of the year. The association said it considered merging with another association but didn’t find a good fit for its member base.