IBA Annual Conference
 September 20, 2011
General Business Meeting
Detroit, MI

The Smart Balloon Practices campaign, "Why Weight?" was borne out of discussion during General Business meeting at IBA Annual Conference. The challenge of educating the public about the importance of hanging on to their balloon purchases was the topic at hand. Abby Heugel, editor of Party and Paper Retailer Magazine, hit on a creative idea during this brainstorming session with the question, "Why not attach a helium-filled balloon at the cash register with the words, "Why Weight?" imprinted on the balloon?" This would get the customer's attention and start the conversation about the importance of individually weighting helium-filled balloons. Indeed! Why Weight? 

All agreed that this was an idea that had merit! Now the IBA Board of Directors along with the IBA Smart Balloon Practices Committee will begin plans to bring this unique yet simple technique to fruition. What better way to get the conversation rolling with consumers while providing the sales staff with an opportunity to educate the public about this important industry initiative! Thanks for the great idea Abby. Annual Conference is where the winners meet!