In no particular order, here is what I am thinking about less than a week before I get on a plane and head to Las Vegas for what I’m expecting to be a very interesting Surfaces.

Why interesting? First, I’m curious how the Tuesday-to-Thursday dates will impact attendance. Moreover, I’m wondering if it will be indeterminable, given how attendance has to skew downward because of the economy. I’m also anxiously awaiting the post mortems of Mannington and Armstrong: Mannington because it took its center stage off the show floor and into an adjacent ballroom, and Armstrong because it is as close to exhibiting at the show as it’s been in years. For the past few years Armstrong showcased its wares at a nearby hotel in an appointment-only setting; now it is also adjacent to the show floor and will open up its ballroom to the general public at noon on day two. Will their ballrooms become a destination? Only time will tell.

Surfaces is also interesting to me right now because I have no clue what attendance will look like. Of course it will be off; every trade show in America will be off this year. But who exactly will be taking a pass? Retailers who feel they get enough out of the Shaw and Mohawk regionals or their buying group conclaves? Retailers who feel they can’t leave their stores for a couple of days given how they don’t want to miss one customer that walks through the door? Retailers from the East who find it too cost prohibitive this year? Retailers who are on the brink of going out of business anyway?

Here’s what I’m thinking. The best retailers, those who are serious about growing their business, will still attend. I’ve spoken to three in the past week, and they all are coming. They see the value in the show, and so should you. Whether it’s differentiated products, education or meeting with your peers, you won’t find the value this show offers anywhere else.

I’m also thinking about our World Floor Covering Association-endorsed 50th Anniversary Issue. If you’re an FCNews subscriber, it accompanied the issue you are reading now. If you randomly picked up a copy of this magazine at Surfaces, look for the WFCA issue. It is being distributed all over the place. It truly is a great read and contains everything you need to know on how the WFCA and its predecessor organizations work(ed) for the betterment of this industry. It also delves into the many benefits of membership.

Which brings me to the next thing I’m thinking about: Why would any retailer not want to belong to the WFCA? With all the scholarships and educational opportunities, membership pays for itself. And, if you’re not looking to get smarter, then well, you’re only going to get, ah, never mind.

Next, I’ve been thinking a lot about pricing. I’ve watched as many companies basically drop their drawers for business. Very weak. This strategy sends a bad message to your customers. First, they’ll likely think you’ve been overcharging them all along. Second, it will make them wonder if your business is about to go under.

Instead, give your customers reasons why your prices are justified. Either increase your value or at least make the value you provide obvious. As a magazine, I’d rather focus on ad-ding value and getting paid what our services are worth. As retailers, wouldn’t you?

Speaking of the magazine, I’m thinking of what we can do better for our customers, and those include both our readers and advertisers. If you have ideas, please let me know. You know where to find me.