Procurement Returns to Hosting Its Annual Vendor Show
After a long hiatus due to COVID, Einstein’s annual vendor show returned to Lubin Dining Hall on May 24. The event allowed members of the campus community to meet with Einstein’s various vendors who service our laboratories, classrooms, and offices.
The vendor show featured 39 reps from various suppliers who shared their wares with more than 400 members of the Einstein community
“During the pandemic, few visitors were permitted on campus, and those who came had to get special permission to do so,” said Wanda Hernandez, senior director of procurement and business services. “Due to security concerns, we no longer permit our suppliers on campus for sales visits. They can only attend via appointment.” Vendor reps wishing to set up one-on-one meetings must contact Eladio Matos to coordinate the date, time, and location.
She added, “Holding the vendor show offered an excellent opportunity for our vendor reps to meet those on campus who need and use their products, or who would want to learn more about them.”
Making Helpful Connections
Attendees posed for photos with Uncle Albert, which they submitted for a chance to win raffle prizes. Among the prize winners was Celeste Broquadio, from epidemiology & population health.
The event featured 39 exhibitors, most of whom specialize in scientific supplies and instruments, was a tremendous success. More than 400 members of the Einstein community attended the event, which included community-based vendors, too, including Best Deal, Residence Inn Marriott, and American to Go. The Marriott reps displayed a flyer inviting our campus community to a BBQ event on Tuesday, June 18, after 5 p.m.
Observed Wanda, “Both the suppliers and our community members were happy to see the return of the vendor show after the four-year hiatus caused by the pandemic.”
Attendees also were encouraged to locate several Uncle Albert figures placed around the dining hall and take selfies with them. Those who submitted their images were entered into a raffle for fun prizes provided by vendors, including a night at the Mariott, a hiking knapsack, and an Amazon gift card. Winners included Nataysha Williams, Cynthia Cardillo, Maria Vlasaty, Celeste Broquadio, Ruth Bracco, Christopher Kunik, and Marisol Figueroa.
Expanding on Ways to Connect
To augment the ability of vendors to connect with our community members, our premium suppliers will be invited back for virtual training sessions and “lunch and learn” events. “These offerings will allow for communication without any expected commitment or pressure for there to be a direct sale,” said Wanda. “To best serve our campus community, we welcome your feedback. Please let us know which suppliers have products you’d like to learn more about or offer suggestions for lunch and learn topics.”
Posted on: Tuesday, June 11, 2024