Applied Merchant: The Real Deal in Payment Processing

The Official Payment Processor for the International Formalwear Association Our Passion Drives Us Our Experience Enables Us Applied Merchant is committed to bringing the power of payment technology to businesses across the country with innovative and easy-to-use products that are supported by unmatched customer service. As a recognized leader in the industry, our experience gives us the skills to guide business and trade association members through the process of accepting electronic payments by carefully evaluating the specific needs of the business model and delivering a tailored solution to maximize efficiency, security, and cost savings. Applied Merchant offers the following services and rates: Credit Cards 1.69% + $0.20 per swiped transaction 2.19% + $0.25 per keyed transaction Debit Cards 1.39% + $0.20 per swiped transaction 1.89% + $0.25 per keyed transaction Monthly Service Fee $5.00 By pairing these incredible rates with exceptional customer support, Applied Merchant delivers a truly outstanding package. Discover how much money your business can save by switching to Applied Merchant. Looking at the Bigger Picture Applied Merchant is committed to providing IFA members the best credit card processing rates available. We also understand the importance of superior customer service and individualized attention. As an IFA member, you'll be able to take advantage of large group pricing that you can't find on your own, as well as the backing of the association board. Applied Merchant is excited to provide IFA members with a complete payment processing package, including: Discounted credit card processing rates New individual low debit card rates World-class service and support Free processing terminal or software IFA rewards program Building a Stronger Organization Applied Merchant has created IFA Rewards, a program that gives a significant percentage of the profits back to IFA. This monetary support will keep membership dues at a minimum while strengthening member support - just one of the ways Applied Merchant backs IFA while saving your business money. However, Applied Merchant's support of IFA is a direct reflection of member participation in its program. By signing up, your business contributes to the overall impact of IFA Rewards, creating complete success for all parties involved. We urge every member to contact us for a complimentary custom payment processing consultation. To take advantage of this exciting opportunity for your business, please contact our knowledgeable consultants at Applied Merchant today! 800.675.6573 Call today Visit us online at appliedmerchant.com Applied Merchant Systems is a registered ISO and MSP of HSBC Bank USA, National Association, Buffalo NY and Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. Walnut Creek, CA APPLIED MERCHANT 1 North Franklin Street Suite 2360 Chicago, Illinois 60606 http://www.appliedmerchant.com/partners/ifa http://www.appliedmerchant.com/partners/ifa

Tim Moore (After Six), Ben Stone (Milroy’s Tuxedos), Gina Butnick and Jim DuBois (DuBois Formal Wear) toast each other at dinner August 19. Diane Pape from Roger’s Formal Wear and Rick Merlo of Global TuxNet Software enjoy dinner during the GLITS show.

All GLITS-ed up!

Peak lapels, grey coats, trendy edgy new fashion, hot vest styles and colors. All of these and more were the highlight of the GLITS (Great Lakes Independent Tuxedo Specialists) show held in the Chicago area August 19-20. If you have not yet seen the options available for your spring 08 buy, you should not miss an opportunity to view all the possibilities. Most of the manufacturers are offering a peak lapel in every cut and fabric option. The return to the traditional peak of elegance in our industry is refreshing in the same way the trendy new innovative designs most are offering are edgy and geared towards a customer we have not catered to in the past. David’s colors dominate all of the accessory manufacturers new vest lines and with approximately 50% of the dress market going to the bridal giant we thank them. It is now possible for everyone to have the colors they need and our customers demand. More importantly the show brings about discussion. What is working well for stores outside your trade area? What off season income possibilities are others using? We met a nice young couple who run a single store outside Detroit who were completely confused on how to initiate offering invitation discounts in their store. They thought all of the information they collected from talking to everyone was the surprise highlight of their trip. What knowledge could you share or helpful insight could you implement back home? I hope to see you all in Nashville. Upcoming Regional Shows West Coast Formalwear Collective Sunday, September 23 and Monday, September 24 Radisson Suites--Buena Park (formerly Embassy Suites) Click Here for registration information East Coast Formalwear Collective Sunday, September 30 and Monday, October 1 Embassy Suites Secaucus--Meadowlands Click Here for registration information

Reflections on a President: Jim Carrow

As IFA President Jim Carrow wraps up his term we want to thank him for his commitment to the industry. A third generation in a family business knows what it can take to bring about change. In downsizing the board to a more manageable 13 members he has helped to bring about greater efficiency. His open approachable demeanor has made him many friends in the industry. This is what a few of his fellow board members and friends had to say about him. “Jim loves to get up in front of audiences and speak…The only problem is nothing comes out of his mouth…Jim said he has to have 2-3 strong drinks before he can walk up on stage…His wife Ann must be on stage with him for anything to come out of his mouth…She keeps him focused by saying “That’s OK Honey”…Don’t give him anything to pass out on stage like an award…He gets so up-tight he forgets to give the person the plaque…In closing, Jim has been a good President…very committed to the members of the organization...He has risen to the occasion…” –Wayne Griner, After Hours/Men’s Wearhouse “My favorite thing about Jim Carrow is the fact that he’s perfectly comfortable in a suit…without socks. I love you Jim – and I love your giggle!” –Nancy Haboush, Mister Neat’s “Jim has this penchant against wearing “real” shoes, so it always amazes me to see him hit the golf course and wear real shoes with a real back in them!” –Ken Pendley, CSS/Chaplin “Jim Carrow is one of my most favorite people! He always has a smile on his face and is a true genuine friend…thanks Jim for your friendship and for always being a ton of fun! --that goes for your beautiful wife Ann, too!” –Amy DuBois, DuBois Formal Wear “It has been a pleasure working with Jim over the last year. I appreciate his “no nonsense” approach to many of the issues we face, and his willingness to dive in and do whatever it takes to resolve them. He has worked hard to develop and open up communication between the board and our membership. I look forward to working with him in the coming year as he remains on the board serving as past president. His experience will help us move things forward. Thank you Jim!” –Rod Benbrook, Mr. Formal Jim Carrow? Gee...is he still President of the IFA? I thought Wayne was running the show...anyway, I think he's done a great job in some of the most trying times of our industry. Good Work Jim! –Doug Black, BlackGold International Thank you, Jim we can hardly wait for your speeches and award presentations in Nashville!

Please direct all the questions to (309) 721-5450.

The opinions expressed by the authors do not reflect necessarily of the Association of  International Formalwear, its officials, directors or personnel. Each author is the unique person in charge of his content. The opinions expressed by the authors do not reflect necessarily of the Association of  International Formalwear, its officials, directors or personnel. Each author is the unique person in charge of his content.

You are here: Industry Newsletter Archives :: 2007 Newsletter Archives :: August 28, 2007 Edition

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