News-Record.com

Today's editorial endorses High Point Mayor Becky Smothers' call to increase city support for the furniture market.

Details haven't been worked out, but Smothers and other city leaders are saying the time for complacency is over.

Adding emphasis to that theme are the results of a survey of 581 industry representatives by Furniture/Today, the High Point-based trade publication.

It found that 28 percent of retailers responding were so impressed with the Las Vegas market in July that they are thinking of no longer attending the High Point market.

What's wrong with High Point? The survey revealed a familiar litany: Retailers want lower hotel rates, more convenient parking, more affordable restaurants and increased entertainment opportunities.

High Point must answer these demands.

Read respondents' comments as reported by Furniture/Today (registration required).

The city of High Point can't save its market by itself. The state is increasing its financial support. Greensboro and Winston-Salem should provide assistance. Guilford County government should help to a greater extent. The major showrooms also should do much, much more. And hotel operators have got to stop jacking up room rates to absurd levels during market.

High Point can compete only if it provides a better market experience for retailers -- the people who come to buy furniture. It has to be convenient and affordable for them to attend. The atmosphere must be inviting and fun. The climate must be conducive to conducting business.

What's at stake? Only a $1 billion annual economic impact for the Triad.