News and Media
Worldwide Buying Group Appoints New Positions

July 2008

Worldwide Inc, a Seattle-based buying group for independent retailers, is pleased to announce the following new positions in June 2008:

Denny WeidkampController. Weidkamp was most recently employed by Prolabwest as CFO, a regional provider of photo and digital graphics for the retail industry. Prior to Prolabwest, Weidkamp’s experience includes financial positions with several NW manufacturers and began his financial career with Ernst & Ernst in the Seattle office.

Brian JensenMen’s Footwear/Athletics Buyer. Jensen brings a lifetime of experience in footwear, having worked in a family owned store as well as Nordstrom and most recently worked with a major supplier of private label product to retailers as diverse as Payless Shoe and Nordstrom, amongst others.

Ben HartmanFishing Tackle/ Marine/RV Buyer arrived in a newly created position separated from a long-standing combined Hunting Sports/Fishing Tackle/Marine RV category. His experience includes several years as a sporting goods department manager and regional corporate fly fishing buyer for Galyan’s, owner of his own specialty fly fishing store and guiding fishing expeditions along with general life-long involvement with the fishing industry.

Marcy LaymanTrade Show/ Member Coordinator Ms. Layman brings over 20 years of marketing and trade show experience to this position.

Worldwide Announces 2008 and 2009 Show Dates

March 2008

Worldwide, a National member-owned buying Cooperative for independent retailers based in Kent, WA, is announcing their tradeshow dates for September 2008 and February 2009:

September 9-12, 2008 - General Merchandise Show
Reno-Sparks Convention Center
Reno, NV

February 23-26, 2009 - General Merchandise Show
February 27-28, 2009 - Toy Show
Reno-Sparks Convention Center
Reno, NV

Founded in 1955, Worldwide is celebrating their 53rd Anniversary in 2008 with over 250 retailers across the USA, Canada, Hawaii, Puerto Rico and Barbados. Oudoor sporting goods, work and casual clothing for men, women and children, and footwear are the major categories for the group. In addition, there is a strong presence in toys, homeworld, hardware and lawn/garden/patio items. A very competitive private label line of clothing, footwear, camping gear and specialty products is also provided to the Members.