PRESS RELEASE
Largo, FL – MKJ’s 2020 Marketing Summit will investigate the consolidation of the industry relative to the benefits and challenges it represents to independent funeral homes, including all of the ways we compete for them – not just for customers, but for staffing, real estate, and every other facet of this complicated relationship.
Many within the death care industry perceive the consolidation of the industry as a challenge for which there is no solution, but for most independent funeral homes, the acquisition and consolidation process that has been going on for nearly 40 years has been a net gain. In fact, the only challenge has been competing with consolidated funeral homes. However, in reality, consolidated funeral homes are easier to compete with – and beat – than a well-managed, independent funeral home.
Relative to the consolidation and competition in general, presentations will address how to engage the next generation in your family business. Certainly, for many owners, selling their business to a consolidation company answers many of their challenges. However, consolidators are not interested in acquiring every funeral business; in fact, they are much more interested in making acquisitions in markets where they already have properties.
For many family businesses, continuing the family ownership represents the best strategy moving forward. Whether a firm’s next generation is made up of children, relatives, or staff members, there is still a great need to invest in our industry’s future leaders. Bring them to this session or send them so they can hear from outside experts about where the industry is going and what’s in it for them. Can’t send them? Attendees will learn how to motivate younger staff members and their management team – along with how to harness their talents for long-term success.
Additional topics that will be covered include:
- How do I attract minimal cremation customers without cannibalizing my full-service business?
- What does research say about what consumers are willing to pay for, and how do I leverage it?
- How do I make the most out of an acquisition? Which firms should I acquire, and how can I identify the best prospects?
- What are the new techniques for dealing with a dissatisfied family, and how do I teach my staff about service recovery?
- How do I promote my firm’s celebrant services?
- Are there any holes in my marketing plan?
The featured speaker at the 2020 Summit will be author and consultant Stephen Shapiro, who has presented in 50 countries and was inducted into the Speaker Hall of Fame. Shapiro helps organizations drive tenfold improvements on their innovation ROI over traditional methods. He previously led a 20,000-person practice at the consulting firm, Accenture.
Shapiro has written five books, including Best Practices are Stupid, which was named the best innovation book of the year by 800-CEO-READ. His next book, Invisible Solutions, will be published in March 2020. In his latest book, Shapiro outlines 25 templates that he believes can solve any business problem. Shapiro will lead summit attendees through a hands-on experience, teaching them how to apply his tools and find solutions to their real-world challenges.
Whether you prefer the beach or the slopes, MKJ offers the Summit at two different upscale resorts so guests can experience their favorite location – or both.
The Arrabelle Resort was fashioned after a European ski model. No hotel delivers this experience as well as the Arrabelle Resort at Vail Square. Enjoy lavish accommodations at one of America’s most iconic ski resorts. MKJ negotiated an event rate, hundreds of dollars below the rack rate.
Reminiscent of grand European resorts and designed around a hub of entertainment, The Arrabelle features a delightful plaza at the heart of Lionshead Village with an open-air ice rink, shopping, and dining. Complemented with direct access to Vail Mountain via the Eagle Bahn Gondola just steps away is the best ski-in, ski-out experience of any resort MKJ seminar guests have ever experienced. The Arrabelle is convenience, appeal, and elegance wrapped in one luxurious package.
Naples, FL – March 16-18, 2020
LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort is the only luxury, true beachfront property in Naples. Having just completed a $30 million remodeling of hotel rooms and public areas, it represents the best value on Naples beach. Relax under the sun, sit by a cascading-falls pool, sip cocktails on the beach early in the day, and enjoy fine cuisine at dinner practically on the beach. Indulge in the exotic spa or simply enjoy your luxury hotel room. LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort allows you to revitalize while surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of Southwest Florida.
Contact MKJ at 888-655-1566 to take advantage of low, negotiated event rates or register online at mkjmarketing.com.
MKJ’s seminars have consistently been fully approved by the Academy of Professional Funeral Service Practice and nearly every state; however, every state has its own requirements. MKJ does not guarantee accreditation hours for every hour of presentations.
