Novi, Michigan – February 10, 2012 Chain Drug Marketing Association (CDMA), an eighty six old trade association, comprised of over 140 regional drug chains, independent pharmacies and regional drug wholesalers serving over 6,000 retail stores nationwide, recently held its 86th Annual Trade Expo in Kissimmee, Florida from January 23-26.

During the trade expo, Powhatan Pharmacy of Powhatan, VA was honored as CDMA Member of the Year for their loyalty, dedication and consistent support to CDMA’s Programs.  Powhatan Pharmacy has been a Member of CDMA’s since 2009.

Accepting the award for Powhatan Pharmacy was Carol Gregg, Owner, Bunny Franklin, Store Manager, and Betty Tate, Store Manager of Plaza Pharmacy.  Carol, Bunny and Betty attend the trade expo in search of exciting new products to bring into their stores.

CDMA congratulates Powhatan Pharmacy for this honor!

From Left to Right:
Betty Tate of Plaza Pharmacy, Bunny Franklin of Powhatan Pharmacy, Jim Devine of CDMA, Jack Walker of Walker Drug, Carol Gregg of Powhatan Pharmacy and Judy Aspinall of CDMA

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Chain Drug Marketing Association hosts 86th Annual Trade Expo

Novi, Michigan – February 6, 2012 Chain Drug Marketing Association (CDMA) hosted their 86th Annual Trade Expo from January 23rd to January 26th to a record breaking number of attendees at The Gaylord Palms Convention Center in Kissimmee, Florida.

CDMA Members acquired valuable information and deals from the Trade Floor, the Store Brand Forum, the CDMA Showroom and the Direct Import program. The Trade Floor had 110 exhibitors of products and services geared to the front end of the pharmacy. The Store Brand Forum was a way for Buyers to meet one-on-one with Private Label Suppliers to learn of new product launches, display opportunities and receive incredible discounts. The CDMA Showroom had a wide variety of everyday, seasonal and promotional products with 500 items across front end merchandise categories. Additionally, over 500 highly profitable items were featured in the Direct Import Showroom, primarily seasonal and focused on 4th quarter, with the “Candy Land” collection being the show favorite.

The 86th Annual Chairman’s Reception and Dinner was hosted by CDMA’s Chairman, Jack Walker of Walker Drugs. CDMA gave special recognition to members that have contributed to the success of the association.  Powhatan Pharmacy was awarded Member of the Year and accepting the award was Carol Gregg, Bunny Franklin and Betty Tate. Today’s Optical was awarded Associate Member of the Year and accepting the award was Mel Lurie and Jack Cunningham.  Guardian Drug Company was awarded Store Brand Supplier of the Year, with Chuck Goldberg accepting the award.  Lanny Doud and Jim Bernitt of Rochester Drug Company were awarded Store Brand Member of the Year.  CDMA guests enjoyed the musical talents of “Live it Up Productions” who sang popular Broadway tunes throughout the evening.

CDMA created a Product Showcase to give Associate Members (Suppliers) an additional opportunity to feature their new, unique, and exciting products. With over 45 participating companies, representing 82 impressive products, it made for a challenging competition, as well as a diverse showing of products for CDMA Members.  The buyers chose this year’s Product Showcase winner to be True-Dose for its innovative and unique product line with great packaging. True-Dose, a CDMA Platinum Member, was founded by animal lovers who have a passion to improve the quality of ingredients and accuracy of the dosing of companion animal health in the vitamin, supplement, and nutrient categories. True-Dose is the only pet nutraceutical made in a pharmaceutical facility to FDA standards which ensures the pharmacist and pet parents that they are getting the highest quality ingredients available.

At the Shareholder’s Meeting Nancy Wharmby of Medicine Center/Medicine Shoppe Pharmacies was elected as the newest member of CDMA’s Board of Directors.

CDMA’s Board of Directors consists of:

Jack Walker of Walker Drugs-Chairman
Jim Devine of CDMA-President
Paul White of Medicine Center/Medicine Shoppe Pharmacies-1st Vice Chairman
Lanny Doud of Rochester Drug Cooperative-2nd Vice Chairman
Jim Salley of Frank W. Kerr-Treasurer
Judy Aspinall of CDMA-Secretary
Bob Blake of Blake Pharmacy
David Jenkins of Fruth Pharmacy
Bob Messick of CDMA
Dick Moran of Value Drug Company
Karla Moschella of Value Drug Company
Bob Petryszak of Drug Emporium
Nancy Wharmby of Medicine Center/Medicine Shoppe Pharmacies
Robin Willmott of Quality Care Pharmacies
Linton Young

CDMA’s growth and progress throughout the years would not be possible without the direction and wise counsel of its Board of Directors and the dedication and support of its membership.  CDMA’s 86th Annual Trade Show gave Members the opportunities to find Profitable Products and Services at the Palms!

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For more information, please contact Judy Aspinall, CDMA Vice President-Membership, at 248-465-0662 or aspinall@chaindrug.com.

The Chain Drug Marketing Association (CDMA) is owned by over 140 regional drug chains, independent pharmacies, regional drug wholesalers and specialty distributors, who collectively serve more than 6,000 drug stores.  We help suppliers communicate with our members through our extensive marketing programs.  We differentiate ourselves by supporting suppliers’ sales teams 52 weeks a year, offering centralized billing, and hosting trade shows for networking and relationship building.  We have created a store brand of 900 + skus exclusively for our members and have formed strategic alliances to help fulfill our mission.  CDMA has been helping suppliers “make the connection” for 86 years.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Winner of CDMA’s Product Showcase at the 86th Annual Trade Expo

Kissimmee, FL – January 25, 2012 Chain Drug Marketing Association (CDMA) held a Product Showcase at its 86th Annual Trade Expo. The Product Showcase is a chance for CDMA’s Associate Members (Suppliers) to showcase their new, unique, and exciting products.

With over 45 participating companies, representing 82 impressive products, it was a tough competition. CDMA’s Members had a chance to review the items on display and vote for their favorite. All categories were represented in the Product Showcase, including Health & Beauty, Consumables, General Merchandise and Seasonal, making it a diverse showing of products for CDMA’s members.

This year’s Product Showcase winner is described as innovative and unique with great packaging. True-Dose, a CDMA Platinum Member, was founded by animal lovers who have a passion to improve the quality of ingredients and accuracy of the dosing of companion animal health in the vitamin, supplement, and nutrient categories.

True-Dose is the only pet nutraceutical made in a pharmaceutical facility to FDA standards which ensures the pharmacist and pet parents that they are getting the highest quality ingredients available.

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The Chain Drug Marketing Association (CDMA) is owned by over 125 regional drug chains, independent pharmacies, regional drug wholesalers and specialty distributors, who collectively serve more than 6,000 drug stores.  We help suppliers communicate with our members through our extensive marketing programs.  We differentiate ourselves by supporting suppliers’ sales teams 52 weeks a year, offering centralized billing, and hosting trade shows for networking and relationship building.  We have created a store brand of 900 + skus exclusively for our members and have formed strategic alliances to help fulfill our mission.  CDMA has been helping suppliers “make the connection” for 86 years.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Chain Drug Marketing Association:  86th Annual Trade Expo- Profitable Products and Services at the Palms

Novi, Michigan – November 18, 2011 Chain Drug Marketing Association (CDMA) is proud to announce its 86th Annual Trade Expo at the Gaylord Palms Resort in Kissimmee, Florida from January 23-26, 2012.  This event will bring together suppliers with regional drug chains, regional drug wholesalers, independent pharmacies, grocery stores and convenience stores.

Buyers that attend will discuss business opportunities with exhibitors, meet and exchange ideas with other buyers, and learn about new CDMA programs that can help to increase profitability in the front end of their stores, all in the gorgeous setting of the Gaylord Palms Resort.  Great deals will not only be found on the trade floor, but also in the Store Brand Forum, in the products-only CDMA Showroom and Direct Import area. The Store Brand Forum is a one-on-one meeting format with buyers and Store Brand’s manufacturers.  WOW buys, New Product Launches and learning about Industry and Marketing trends are only some of the benefits to attending the forum.  Buyers will also benefit from attending the CDMA Showroom and Direct Import area, where a large variety of seasonal and everyday merchandise with exceptional pricing will be displayed.

Suppliers that exhibit will meet a whole new customer base, not often found at other trade shows.    CDMA will help exhibitors get noticed before the show by organizing a pre-show mailing to all attending buyers.  Companies can also highlight a new or unique item by participating in the Product Showcase or take advantage of our many sponsorship opportunities.

The 86th Annual Chairman’s Reception & Dinner will be an event for both buyers and exhibitors. The networking evening allows all attendees to enjoy great food, drinks, entertainment and a chance to build relationships. Awards will be presented to outstanding members and suppliers of the year.

The 2012 CDMA Trade Expo will once again focus on providing opportunities to network, share ideas, build businesses and make more money.

For more information, please contact Judy Aspinall, CDMA Vice President, at 248-465-0662 or aspinall@chaindrug.com.

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The Chain Drug Marketing Association (CDMA) is owned by over 125 regional drug chains, independent pharmacies, regional drug wholesalers and specialty distributors, who collectively serve more than 6,000 drug stores.  We help suppliers communicate with our members through our extensive marketing programs.  We differentiate ourselves by supporting suppliers’ sales teams 52 weeks a year, offering centralized billing, and hosting trade shows for networking and relationship building.  We have created a store brand of 900 + skus exclusively for our members and have formed strategic alliances to help fulfill our mission.  CDMA has been helping suppliers “make the connection” for 86 years.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

CDMA’s MAKE MORE MONEY SHOW

Novi, Michigan – July 25, 2011

CDMA is proud to announce its first “Make More Money Table Top Show” in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.  The show will take place at the Pennsylvania Convention Center September 23-24, 2011.  The show will give our regional drug chains, regional drug wholesalers and independent pharmacies a chance to order sizzling deals available only at our show.  Our room will have table top displays of our hot items, with items from various categories including Seasonal, Health & Beauty, and Soft Goods among others.  This first time event for Chain Drug Marketing Association (CDMA) will be in conjunction with the annual True Value Fall Market.

The association will also be hosting a “Best of the Best” lunch on Friday September 23rd and an “Idea Exchange” breakfast on Saturday September 24th for our members. These unique events bring together the membership and allow the members to discuss success stories, common frustrations, merchandising and sourcing tips.

CDMA has arranged an 11,000 square foot space to display selected products on behalf of suppliers so they do not have to attend the show.   The show will showcase suppliers new product launches, promotional goods, counter top displays, floor displays and clip strip opportunities. The designated area will include product samples, catalogs, sell sheets and order forms.

The CDMA Make More Money Show is a prime opportunity for all of CDMA’s members to find new and unique profitable products for their stores.  We are looking forward to the success of this event to help our members Make More Money.  For more information, please contact Judy Aspinall at 800-935-CDMA, ext 662 or aspinall@chaindrug.com.

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The Chain Drug Marketing Association (CDMA) is owned by over 100 regional drug chains, independent pharmacies, regional drug wholesalers and specialty distributors, who collectively serve more than6,000 drug stores.  We help suppliers communicate with our members through our extensive marketing programs.  We differentiate ourselves by supporting suppliers’ sales teams 52 weeks a year, offering centralized billing, and hosting trade shows for networking and relationship building, including our unique and innovative Virtual Trade Show.  We have created a store brand of 900 + skus exclusively for our members and have formed strategic alliances to help fulfill our mission.  CDMA has been helping suppliers “make the connection” for over 85 years.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Association Celebrates 85 years of Making the Connection between Buyers and Suppliers

Novi, Michigan – February 2, 2011

Chain Drug Marketing Association (CDMA) celebrated in style at their 85^th Anniversary Trade Expo in Orlando, FL at the Orlando Hilton.

The Trade Expo saw both an increase in Buyers and Exhibitors from previous years.  Exhibitors received promising leads, wrote orders, and were overall pleased with the response at the show.  Robert Fine from Outdoor Hands, LLC stated “It’s a great show – well run and good buyers.  It’s a great opportunity to make contacts in the independent drug industry…Small enough where you can see everyone that has attended.”  Nate Wagner with Bacompt Systems also enjoyed the show, “I love CDMA – Everybody from the staff, to the members, to the associates!  It’s a great show.  You always have a very positive response at the trade show and communication with the buyers is really easy.”  Likewise, Buyers were impressed with the variety of products that were presented at the show and the great prices.  Doug Barnett of Brookshire Brothers stated, “Great show with excellent product selection with good prices” and Brenda McGee of Value Drug said “CDMA did a great job of getting a mix of exhibitors with a wide variety of products.”

Buyers gained valuable information from the Buyer-only breakfast, where they discussed new or unique items or deals found on the trade floor.  Buyers that attended this breakfast also participated in an idea exchange on “What to do When Wal-Mart Comes to Town”.  Members brought back not only valuable information, but also valuable deals from the Trade Floor and CDMA Programs like the Store Brand Forum, CDMA Showroom, and Direct Import program.  The Store Brand Forum was a way for Buyers to meet one-on-one with Store Brand Suppliers to see new merchandise, displays and also earn incredible savings.  The CDMA Showroom had a wide variety of everyday seasonal and promotional products for the front end of the store.  Buyers that participated in the Direct Import program were amazed at the number of seasonal and gift items displayed, with generous gross profit margins.

The 85^th Anniversary Celebration dinner was the highlight of the show.  David Pinto of Chain Drug Review was the featured speaker along with a panel of current and past Members reminisced through the years.  This special panel included Allan Patrick, Jon Rudden, Jim and Betty Evans, Jack Walker and Jim Devine.  Also, in honor of this impressive milestone, CDMA gave special recognition to those that have contributed to the success of the association.  Paul White with Medicine Center/Medicine Shoppe Pharmacies was awarded Member of the Year.  Activant Solutions, Inc. was awarded Associate Member of the Year.  A&Z Pharmaceuticals was awarded Store Brand Supplier of the Year.  N.C. Mutual Wholesale was awarded Store Brand Member of the Year.  Because of their loyal support, Ann Newman of Frank W. Kerr and Joe Freeman were both given the Hall of Fame awards.

CDMA’s growth and progress through the years would not be possible without the dedication and support of its membership.  CDMA…The future has never looked brighter!

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For more information, please contact Judy Aspinall, CDMA Vice President, at 248-465-0662 or aspinall@chaindrug.com.

The Chain Drug Marketing Association (CDMA) is owned by over 125 regional drug chains, independent pharmacies, regional drug wholesalers and specialty distributors, who collectively serve more than 6,000 drug stores.  We help suppliers communicate with our members through our extensive marketing programs.  We differentiate ourselves by supporting suppliers’ sales teams 52 weeks a year, offering centralized billing, and hosting trade shows for networking and relationship building.  We have created a store brand of 900 + skus exclusively for our members and have formed strategic alliances to help fulfill our mission.  CDMA has been helping suppliers “make the connection” for 85 years.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Activant Honored With Chain Drug Marketing Association’s Associate Member of the Year Award

Award recognizes company’s commitment to the CDMA and the independent and regional pharmacy community

LIVERMORE, Calif., February 1, 2011 – Activant Solutions Inc., was selected by the Chain Drug Marketing Association (CDMA) as the Associate Member of the Year. The award was presented at a member dinner held on January 27th during the CDMA 85^th Anniversary Trade Expo in Orlando, Florida.

Founded in 1926, CDMA represents over 100 regional drug chains, independent pharmacies, regional drug wholesalers, specialty distributors and buying groups. Each year, CDMA presents the Associate Member of the Year award to the associate member who is most active in the organization and demonstrates the strongest commitment to serving the needs of regional drug chains and independent pharmacies.

“CDMA works with many suppliers and service providers of all sizes. Activant was chosen because it truly understands the needs of independent pharmacies and is genuinely committed to their success,” said Brianne Ray, Director of Business Development for CDMA. “CDMA is happy to honor Activant on our 85^th Anniversary Trade Expo. We are able to celebrate our 85^th anniversary because of the support we receive from companies like Activant.”

“We are thrilled to receive this prestigious award from CDMA,” said Paul Salsgiver, executive vice president for Activant. “Activant is committed to working with organizations like CDMA to work hand-in-hand with pharmacists to improve their front-of-store retail performance by helping to enhance customer service and operational efficiencies while maximizing profits. We offer independent pharmacies PMS integration, tools and retail knowledge to better compete with the big chains.”

About Activant Solutions

With over 30,000 customer locations use Activant products to manage their day-to-day operations. Activant’s systems are designed to help customers increase sales, boost productivity, operate more cost-efficiently, improve inventory turns and enhance trading partner relationships. Headquartered in Livermore, California, Activant has operations in Texas, Colorado, Illinois, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Utah, Canada, Ireland and the United Kingdom. For more information, please visit www.activant.com.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Chain Drug Marketing Association:  85 Years of Helping to Build Profitable Businesses

Novi, Michigan – December 4, 2010

Chain Drug Marketing Association (CDMA) is proud to announce its 85^th Anniversary Trade Expo at the Hilton Orlando from January 26-30, 2011.  This event will be a celebration of CDMA’s 85 successful years of bringing suppliers together with regional drug chains, regional drug wholesalers, independent pharmacies, grocery stores and convenience stores.

Buyers that attend will discuss business opportunities with exhibitors, meet and exchange ideas with other buyers, and learn about new CDMA programs that can help to increase profitability in the front end of their stores.  Great deals will not only be found on the trade floor, but also in the Store Brand Forum, in the products-only CDMA Showroom and Direct Import area.   The Store Brand Forum is a one-on-one meeting format with buyers and Store Brand’s manufacturers.  WOW buys, New Product Launches and learning about Industry and Marketing trends are only some of the benefits to attending the forum.  Buyers will also benefit from attending the CDMA Showroom and Direct Import area, where a large variety of seasonal and everyday merchandise will be on display.

Suppliers that exhibit will meet a whole new customer base, not often found at other trade shows.  These buyers are key decision-makers and are ready to write orders!  CDMA will help exhibitors get noticed before the show by organizing a pre-show mailing to all attending buyers.  Companies can also highlight a new or unique item by participating in the Product Showcase.

The 85^th Anniversary Celebration dinner will be the highlight of the show and will give all attendees a chance to help CDMA honor the past and plan for the future.  Both buyers and suppliers will enjoy great food, drinks, entertainment and a chance to build relationships at this networking event.  David Pinto from Chain Drug Review will be the featured speaker.

Over the past 85 years, CDMA has not only survived, but thrived in the industry.  The 85^th Anniversary Trade Expo will be focused on providing opportunities to network, share ideas, and build businesses.

For more information, please contact Judy Aspinall, CDMA Vice President, at 248-465-0662 or aspinall@chaindrug.com.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Announcement of Bob Messick to Chain Drug Marketing Association

Novi, Michigan – August 20, 2010

Chain Drug Marketing Association, Inc. (CDMA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Bob Messick to the newly-created position of Senior Vice President.

“Bob’s past retail experience with Fruth Pharmacy for 28 years will be a positive addition to our CDMA staff”, says Jim Devine, President of CDMA.  Bob has also served on the CDMA Board of Directors and CDMA Strategic Planning Committee.  His knowledge from having served in these positions will be a great asset to CDMA. Bob’s responsibilities at CDMA will be primarily in the Purchasing, Marketing, and Advertising areas.  Due to CDMA’s 25% growth in sales and membership the past two years, this is an opportune time to create this position.  With Bob’s experience, he is an ideal fit.

He has relocated from West Virginia to Brighton, Michigan with his wife, Julia, and their three sons. Bob will be reporting directly to Jim Devine, CDMA President, and will start on August 30, 2010.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Trade Expo celebrates Store Brand and Expands Product Offerings to Members

Novi, Michigan – April 6, 2010

Chain Drug Marketing Association (CDMA) presented a successful 84^th Education & Trade Expo from March 16-18 at the Hilton Chicago.

The Trade Expo saw both an increase of Buyers and Exhibitors from the previous year.  Exhibitors found the Expo to be essential in forming new relationships with CDMA’s difficult-to-reach regional chains and independent pharmacies.   “The show has allowed us to take the product to the next level to the independents.  It has also enabled us to meet the distributors and retailers that we would not have been able to meet had we not been with CDMA.  It has allowed us to increase the depth and breadth of our line.” said Bill Hart with EcoSmart Technologies, Inc., a new CDMA Associate Member.

Buyers not only received valuable deals on the Trade Floor, but also valuable information from the educational sessions; such as Profit through Direct Import which explained the benefits of bringing CDMA’s Direct Import Program into their store, and Creating the Best Christmas Ad Ever.  “The Best of the Best Breakfast” gave Buyers a chance to discuss and share hot buys and unique merchandise to be found on the trade floor.

CDMA’s store brand program, Quality Choice, celebrated 15 years of providing high quality, profitable products to Members at the Quality Choice reception and dinner.  Lee Rudibaugh, with First Boston Pharma, accepted the award for Quality Choice Supplier of the Year, on behalf of Mike Barna.  At the Quality Choice Forum, Buyers met one-on-one with Quality Choice suppliers to learn of new product launches and trends in store brands.  The WOW buys provided significant savings to those in attendance.

Another popular aspect of the show was the newly expanded Table Top Showcase that provided Buyers with more seasonal buys and hot deals from the CDMA Warehouse.  This program also presented CDMA suppliers with another venue in which to display their items for Buyers.

New additions to the Board of Directors include John Rocchi of Klingensmith Drug Stores of PA and Bob Petryszak of Drug Emporium of WV.  Bob Messick of Fruth Pharmacy was elected to move to the Executive Committee as the 2^nd Vice Chairman.  The new Board of Directors is looking forward to another successful year of new ideas and improvements for CDMA.

CDMA will commemorate 85 years of making the connection between our Supplier Members and Retail and Wholesale Members at the Hilton Orlando from January 26-29, 2011.

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For more information, please contact Judy Aspinall, CDMA Vice President, at 248-465-0662 or aspinall@chaindrug.com.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Chain Drug Marketing Association Offers More to Retail Pharmacy

Novi, Michigan – February 26, 2010 The Chain Drug Marketing Association (CDMA) hosts its 84^th Education & Trade Expo in Chicago, Illinois from March 16-18, 2010.  This event marks the 15^th Anniversary of its private label brand, Quality Choice, along with more options for its members in basics for the front end of the pharmacy.  CDMA’s members arrive for this three day event for education, purchasing, and networking at the Hilton Chicago.

Along with its traditional focus on being an industry connection between suppliers and community pharmacies, CDMA has added programs that offer a central distribution of goods to members such as seasonal products, promotional merchandise, direct import goods, and everyday basics.   Through its Everyday Essentials program, CDMA is able to offer its members often difficult-to-source everyday merchandise, along with supplementary goods from its Source CDMA program.  Additionally, CDMA offers another choice in circular advertising for drug stores that continues to be a need within this retail channel.

The Expo offers members the opportunity to explore CDMA programs and meet with front end suppliers with a wide variety of products and services.  Booth buying, a products-only Table Top Showcase, and a Quality Choice Forum make up the purchasing portion of the Expo, with educational sessions, including Profit through Direct Import and Create your Best Christmas Ad Ever!

As an industry mainstay, CDMA has stood the test of time by offering its members access to emerging needs.  Celebrating 15 years of Quality Choice, its ongoing alliances with co-ops like the True Value Company, and becoming a complete source of front end merchandise to its members, makes CDMA not only a long-time survivor but a growing, dynamic member of the pharmacy trade association leaders.

For more information, please contact Judy Aspinall at 800-935-CDMA, ext 662 or aspinall@chaindrug.com.

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The Chain Drug Marketing Association (CDMA) is owned by over 125 regional drug chains, independent pharmacies, regional drug wholesalers and specialty distributors, who collectively serve more than 6,000 drug stores.  We help suppliers communicate with our members through our extensive marketing programs.  We differentiate ourselves by supporting suppliers’ sales teams 52 weeks a year, offering centralized billing, and hosting trade shows for networking and relationship building.  We have created a store brand of 900 + skus exclusively for our members and have formed strategic alliances to help fulfill our mission.  CDMA has been helping suppliers “make the connection” for 84 years.