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AAFES opens doors to local vendors
DALLAS -- While the economy may have forced some retailers to scale back on merchandise and services, the Army and Air Force Exchange Service is actively seeking the assistance of local businesses to increase the product selection that troops and families find at their local Base Exchange.
"Some shoppers drive more than 40 miles to come to the Base Exchange," said Chief Master Sgt. Jeffry Helm, AAFES's senior enlisted advisor. "The addition of local, small, minority, women- and veteran-owned businesses can help provide the diversity, value and innovation to further enhance their shopping experience."
Partner businesses, called concessions, operate in AAFES, provided there is space, primarily in the retail mall area. Benefits include contracts based on a percentage of revenue, a variety of space and merchandising setups and the convenience of being located with the anchor retail store and food outlets. AAFES will also assist in marketing and promoting partner businesses to help maximize awareness on and around the Base Exchange.
"Despite the current economic condition, exchange shoppers continue to demonstrate a strong demand for new and unique merchandise," Sergeant Helm said. "Partnering with AAFES provides local businesses exposure to a great deal of foot traffic as well as the opportunity to serve military families who are protecting our freedom."
Businesses interested in being an AAFES concessionaire can find out more by logging on to www.aafes.com/pa/selling/NTB_Page.htm and www.aafes.com/pa/selling/NTB_Page.htm or by calling (800) 234-4008, extension 3424.