Last month Custom Flag Company attended the annual National Independent Flag Dealers Association (NIFDA) convention in San Antonio, Texas. NIFDA’s mission is to promote American made US flags. This is an opportunity for flag dealers, like ourselves, to take a few days to rejuvenate and focus on our industry.
The three-day convention provided a platform for us to network with our peers and suppliers. We learned about new products, techniques, and issues in our industry. The education was outstanding and this year’s focus was leadership. We heard from excellent speakers that gave us insight on leadership and provided us with hands on tools to bring home and use in our business.
Other highlights included a forum of Flag Manufactures of America Association (FMAA) members. They made us aware of an issue with counterfeit US flags listed on Amazon and let us know how we can help bring awareness of falsely advertised flags. Other speakers included best practices for hiring new employees and how to protect our business with a sound succession plan.
Our final session was truly inspirational. Retired Major General Angela Salinas, the current CEO of Girl Scouts of Southwest Texas, spoke of her journey in the Marine Corp. She expressed how much she respects the American flag and what it means to her and those who serve our country. We were reminded that that our work does matter.
Each year I am in awe of the flag industry. The caliber and ethics of the membership, the willingness to open up and share with each other, and the respect we share of the American flag truly makes our time together meaningful.
