The Rep Summit is one of the most valuable moments of our year. It’s the only time our in-house team and rep leaders are under the same roof, and every time we do, the energy reminds me how essential they are to the DM experience. They are the people who walk into stores on our behalf, solve problems in real time and deliver the kind of service our retailers depend on. Their insight, relationships and commitment to doing right by our customers make them an extension of everything we stand for as a company.
This year’s theme, “The Next Level,” captured the mindset we brought into every discussion. The goal was not only to support our reps, but to strengthen the experience retailers have with DM Merchandising. Every system we introduced, every question we explored and every conversation we had tied back to one idea: How to make things easier, more consistent and more valuable for the stores we serve.
Our Chief Operations Officer, John Shalaby, expressed this clearly: “The Rep Summit sets the direction for our 2026 strategy. It is where collaboration happens and ideas turn into action. Our field strategy is critical to our success, and we believe in our reps and the value they create for our customers.”
A major focus this year was technology. Tools like Rep Savvy give reps better visibility into their accounts and activity, which leads to faster answers, cleaner information and smoother communication for retailers. We also introduced new systems that improve data quality, lead generation and operational efficiency. These upgrades are not just internal conveniences. They are designed to help retailers feel supported, informed and confident in every interaction with DM.
Our CEO, Gavin Marks, reinforced this during the Summit: “The Rep Summit is designed with one purpose: To elevate the retailer experience. When a DM rep walks into a store, we want that visit to feel like an entire organization is showing up with them.” He also shared what gives him confidence in the path ahead, stating, “The more connected we are, the more consistent we become. That consistency is what creates real trust with our retailers.”
One of the most meaningful parts of the Summit was giving our reps a closer look at how DM continues to evolve behind the scenes. Walking through the warehouse and office, they saw the updates, new technology and process improvements that directly support their work in the field. It was important for them to see how these changes help create a smoother, more reliable experience for the retailers they serve every day.
As we wrapped up, Gavin closed with a message that brought the Summit back to its core purpose: “When a DM rep walks into a store, we want that visit to feel like an entire organization is showing up with them.” Over time, what began as separate rep groups has grown into a unified network working toward shared goals. That unity matters. It creates a level of consistency that retailers feel the moment a rep walks through their door.
I am excited about the direction we are heading. The tools we introduced, the alignment we strengthened and the ideas we generated will help us deliver a more reliable and impactful experience to our retail partners. That is what The Next Level means. It reflects our commitment to growing together, working smarter and keeping the customer at the center of every decision we make. When we operate with unity and purpose, there is no limit to how far we can go.
Choosing DM as a vendor means choosing a partner committed to helping retailers create unforgettable customer experiences! Our products are designed to be shelf-ready, giftable, and easy to merchandise, giving stores the tools they need to engage shoppers from the moment they walk in. From packaging that grabs attention to displays that drive impulse sales, every DM brand is built to support stronger customer connections and repeat business. Contact your DM Sales Representative at 1-800-548-6784 or create an online account to start shopping The Goods today!
