With uncertainty in the industry, slow trade shows, and businesses holding back, is now the time to retreat or push forward? This week, Terry and Aaron tackle the reality of today’s market. From struggling events to economic concerns, with a highlight on how decorators can turn challenges into opportunities. We’ll discuss what’s happening, why disruption and innovation thrive in tough times, and practical strategies to stay ahead, create more market share, and position yourself for long-term success. Whether you're feeling the impact or looking for ways to stay strong, this episode is packed with insights to help you thrive in any market condition.






Our regular listeners know this, but 2 Regular Guys are all about garment decorating, a bit of fun, and no rants, lectures, or selling. 2 Regular Guys was not created for our employers but for our industry. Since February 2013, The 2 Regular Guys have been the first and the most listened-to garment decorating industry podcast on this planet! We are humbled by all of you tuning in each week. We work hard to bring you information that will improve your business and our industry. Take a look at our incredible weekly guest list, and you’ll understand where this industry goes for news, interviews, and the heartbeat of garment decorating. Thanks for listening!



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News



If you have anything newsworthy you would like us to share, please email details to info@2regularguys.com. Use the subject line “Weekly News.”




https://youtu.be/D-1LMvVCT5s





Dad Joke



Aaron: You think gas and electric bills are expensive? Have you seen chimneys?



They are through the roof!




Challenges to Opportunities



1. Setting the Stage: What’s Happening in the Industry?




Overview of recent trade show performance (Irving, DAX, Long Beach, etc.)



Economic uncertainty and its impact on business investment



Mergers & acquisitions – What do they signal about the industry’s direction?



Customers hesitant to buy – what’s causing the delay? (TikTok situation, economy, AI, and market shifts)




Signs we’re seeing




Trade show attendance



Trade show purchase slowdown



But is this translating to the end consumer slowing down too?



Is this a self-created downturn based on nothing more than caution… feelings?




2. Why Tough Times Breed Innovation and Disruption




History repeating? Similar patterns from 2008



Businesses that pivot and innovate often emerge stronger



Examples of companies that have successfully adapted in past downturns



What decorators can learn from other industries








3. How to Stay Strong and Create More Market Share



Handling downturns like 2008, Covid, etc.




Businesses that were already hanging by a thread are the first to go



Tighten your belt, look at your spending





The power of niching down – becoming the go-to expert



Strengthening customer relationships through value and education



Brand differentiation – Standing out when competitors cut back



Leveraging content and storytelling to build brand loyalty




4. Positioning Your Business for Long-Term Success




Investing in efficiency: Automation, training, and better processes



Smart marketing during downturns – Where to spend and where to cut back



Collaboration over competition – Finding strategic partnerships



Adaptability – The key to long-term survival in any industry




5. Actionable Takeaways: What Listeners Can Do Now




Mindset shift – Why now is NOT the time to panic, but to plan and act



Evaluate your business – Where can you improve or pivot?



Invest in education – Keep learning and stay ahead of trends



Connect with industry peers – Build support networks and collaborations