Come join the shareholders' meeting! What would you ask the panel? Leave a comment and let me know.
Last week was the 9th annual Shareholder's Meeting of Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia. This event was held at the Equitable Center in midtown Manhattan. I can hardly believe that it’s been 9 years since MSLO went public!
Shareholders come from all over the country and they seem to enjoy the beverages, tea sandwiches, and cookies we provide while they talk and mill about before the meeting is called to order.
Each year our events' coordinators try to make the display both beautiful and informative.
I am always so pleased to see smiling faces even though the
shareholders reminded me that this was the third year in a row that it
rained.
some of the goodies we serve to the guests
Elizabeth Estroff, Heather Kirkland, Carley Blake, and Lauren Picker -
all employees of MSLO - they were responsible for much of the
organization of the meeting, the presentations and the success of the
day.
The auditorium is very beautiful, has good acoustics and is a welcoming
place - the brightly illustrated
screen is used for visual
presentations - I showed some Macy's commercials, some television
segments, and some slides.
Charlotte Beers has rejoined our board of directors - she left when she
took a job under Secretary of State
Colin Powell - now that she is no
longer working for the government she is back with us.
Dallas Sowers, Robin Marino's executive assistant and our new head of human resources, Nancy Ashbrooke
Susan Lyne our CEO, coming down the stairs to the stage
a very nice photo of Susan Lyne and Charlotte Beers
Liz komen and Lisa Wagner - both employees
Our CFO, Howard Hochhauser and our Chairman, Charles Koppelman
Here I am dressed in a pretty brown pants suit with a thin, but warm scarf.
one of the vibrant slides
another good slide
This is the auditorium, filling up - not too many people come to such
an event, but those who do attend
have lots to say and good comments to
make.
All eyes are on the guests who ask questions of the officers and me.
Everyone looks very intent - taking notes and listening to the presentations.
This year we had quite a few questions asked of the panel on the stage.
MSLO's annual meetings are always informative and enjoyable. I wish I could have attended this year! Thanks for sharing photos from the event.
Posted by: Kenn | May 29th, 2008 at 7:09 am
Awsome! I want to buy some shares just to eat the goodies!
Posted by: Josh Rich | May 29th, 2008 at 8:29 am
I have been a stock holder for many years. I hope to attend the meeting some time in the future. Everything looked lovely.
Posted by: Deborah Westphal | May 29th, 2008 at 9:13 am
I would ask about how the Emril deal is going.
DH
Posted by: Damien Hellsen | May 29th, 2008 at 9:28 am
Hi Martha,
What new and innovating ideas are you planning with Emril? I know it will challenging to find new creative and educational material that has not been done before.
Posted by: Sue Kinney | May 29th, 2008 at 9:47 am
Hello Martha, We live in a world today that is much involved in the runnings of major companies like MSLO. Yet some of us are not quite sure of what some of the positions of the employees are. Example, What is the difference of the CEO, CFO, Chairman (like Charles) and what is the purpose of the board of directors. Thank you. Jake
Posted by: Jake Schmidt Fairfield Iowa | May 29th, 2008 at 9:53 am
With the popularity explosion of cooking shows, I would ask what measures are being taken to further increase and promote the ratings of the Everyday Foods show.
Posted by: Lori Stewart | May 29th, 2008 at 10:13 am
Hello, Martha
Any plans to promote the brand and open new markets internationally in the near future?
Posted by: Stephane | May 29th, 2008 at 10:33 am
How will the current economic conditions affect the company? Thanks for sharing this day because it makes me want to be a shareholder!
Posted by: Pat | May 29th, 2008 at 10:53 am
Hi Martha,
Is there any progress on the MSL Pets publication? I think it would be a very profitable venture.
MSL Omnimedia is doing an outstanding job! Bravo!
Posted by: Jon | May 29th, 2008 at 11:29 am
Hello Martha!
I am a proud stockholder, and look forward to going to the shareholders meeting at some point. My question to the panel: what is the future with Sears Holdings/Kmart? Keep up the great work! We love you!
Posted by: Jeff | May 29th, 2008 at 11:40 am
Congrats on your 9th year anniversary...and many, many more to follow!!
My shareholders questions would have been, "There is enough evidence to suggest global warming is occurring. Can MSLO provide a list of their accomplished successes in helping do their share of global warming prevention? And what are your future endeavors in helping to prevent global warming?” The corporate world has done great strives in helping to improve our planet and allow our loved ones (family, friends, and pets) to breath cleaner air. Let’s have a day of honoring the great corporations and say, “thank you”.
In the past, some corporations have given a bad name to the corporate world (like Enron, Worldcom and a few others) and it is time to change that thought.
Let’s start by saying thank you to MSLO….a fabulous role model for corporations to follow.
Posted by: Gloria Brown | May 29th, 2008 at 12:03 pm
Where can i see the answer to the above worthwhile questions and comments?
Thanks for your great work.
RESPONSE:
VERY SOON! WE ARE WORKING ON HAVING SPECIAL WEEKLY POSTS TO ANSWER ALL OF YOUR EXCELLENT QUESTIONS
Martha
Posted by: Dominique | May 29th, 2008 at 1:05 pm
What is the Emeril Deal?
Posted by: Terri | May 29th, 2008 at 1:25 pm
I was fortunate enough to catch you on the CNBC segment yesterday morning. I am unfortunately not in a position to be a shareholder just yet. That brings me to my question. I so admire what your company has done and is doing to help us keep our homes-which I think includes the financial well being of a home-in order (which is #1 priority for most of us), I was wondering if you could add an investment education segment, or at the very least, a few stock and/or fund picks. You have access to some of the most brilliant minds! Perhaps tie this into the products and/or articles that you showcase(green living, products for home maintenance, global trends, etc). It would be great for those of us just entering the investment world, or just even a different angle to look at some of these products. After all, we women do control the household budget!
Posted by: Tracy | May 29th, 2008 at 1:29 pm
Hi Martha, What an interesting blog. I have always wondered what went on during a shareholders' meeting. If I were a shareholder and attended the meeting, I might ask if MSLO will ever make gardening products at Macy's since K Mart no longer has most of the garden tools available any more. I love those tools and other garden products. Thanks again for sharing. Jan
Posted by: Jan Erickson | May 29th, 2008 at 1:47 pm
Martha,
Wish I could have been at this year's meeting....someday!! I have been a shareholder of MSLO stock for 9 years since it went public!
Bravo to you and your team for setting the standards of excellent products and publications!
To also voice a concern about K-Mart and Sears contract. Are you staying at K-Mart? Please keep K-Mart products and bring back some oldies but goodies. Miss the gardening tools, fertilizers in Martha green, and measuring cups (Pyrex in Martha green), and keep the Christmas line!!Also, an idea for your K-Mart Everyday Garden furniture line....can you copy your French Francais Carre' green button chairs?? The old company Gardener's Eden used to make a set but they are not in business anymore.
Macy's line is wonderful but K-Mart was your start and things you can't find in Macy's, K-Mart would have!!
Here's to a great year ahead! Congrats on all the board members, returning and present.
Paula
Posted by: Paula M. | May 29th, 2008 at 1:47 pm
I understand the complexity of MSLO and the priorities of stock holders. I would like to know if there is still room to support the small entrepreneurs within North America and Europe? Is the manufacturing requirement so exact MSLO can not go local (remember the current food call--purchase locally to avoid an enlarged carbon footprint)?
Thank you for all your efforts recognizing great small time businesses.
Also thank you, thank you, thank your for responding to Dominique!
Posted by: Margie | May 29th, 2008 at 2:11 pm
Martha,
Thank you for your thoughtfulness in wondering what we might have asked at the meeting. Even though MSLO is enjoying much success there is always places to improve. Are there any groups that might be alienated? Sometimes questions like this can really start a brainstorm and who knows what might happen. Thanks
Posted by: Sherri Bryant | May 29th, 2008 at 2:12 pm
Can you get a little greener?
Posted by: kathy morelock | May 29th, 2008 at 2:20 pm
Were I a shareholder, my main question would be: Where is MSLO in it's manufacturing vs. enviromental impact of it's products? Quality to the consumer must never override the consequences to our planet.
Posted by: Melissa | May 29th, 2008 at 2:23 pm
Greetings from Seattle!
I would ask about how the Macy's line is going: profits, expansion and new area's of exporation within Macy's.
Personally I have waited a very long time to purchase Martha products in a retail establishment and am grateful for the Macy's connection.
Posted by: Sean Milton | May 29th, 2008 at 2:52 pm
Hi Martha,
My question concerns the stock MSO. I purchased some shares for $37. and I was wondering if anyone can foresee the stock ever going up to that price again. Im holding on the them. Good Luck and thank you.
Posted by: Mariellen | May 29th, 2008 at 4:19 pm
To help your show stay fresh, I suggest you might bring it on the road. Stay one week in a city and mesh the local culture into your format of cooking, gardening, field trips, etc. You seem to be doing this on your trips as told through your 'blogs', which are very interesting and informative.
Also, can the show highlight more actions that might be of help to those in need.
Posted by: Raymond Brey | May 29th, 2008 at 5:03 pm
If you know that thin chop sticks are a symbol of wealth and prestige -- you must be aware that rain is good luck in Asian cultures.
Posted by: Hardboiledegg | May 29th, 2008 at 6:10 pm
Hi Martha!
I know KMart gave you your start in retail, and I'm lucky enough to have a sister with one nearby- but for many of us, the stores just aren't around anymore. I buy your products at Macys, but I need more access to your EveryDay items- bar cloths, in particular. They have almost eliminated my need for paper towels. I have my sister get me some every few months, but how about branching out beyond KMart for your homekeeping items? Maybe an eBay deal? Maybe in select grocery stores?
Otherwise- keep up the good work and keep speaking out against the current Administration. You have set the bar very high.
Thanks. Denise
Posted by: Denise in CA | May 29th, 2008 at 7:02 pm
Martha,
Thank you for leaving a great response in Dominique's post. MS bloggers will be excited with your special posts answering their questions in the future.
It is evident that you have driven MSLO in so many wonderful directions and are still always doing more than your share to make certain the company thrives during these demanding times.
Thanks for sharing the annual Shareholder’s Meeting…very appreciated.
Posted by: Gloria Brown | May 29th, 2008 at 7:35 pm
Okay... this doesn't really have anything to do with the stockholder's meeting... but::: We all know shows like Hell's Kitchen, HGTV Design Star, Bravo's Top Model, Top Chef, etc., etc..... but will there either be a Martha challenge show... either design, crafting, cooking, gardening... where contestants battle it out in a Martha creative way to either win a spot on your show, or something like that?
Posted by: Angie D | May 29th, 2008 at 8:04 pm
With a downtrending economy, and less discretionary income- how can the MS brand continue to maintain brand equity? From previous blogs- it looks like releasing a food allergy cookbook might be the solution!
Posted by: kristen | May 29th, 2008 at 9:31 pm
I would ask that the board might consider future expansion in regional markets with products specific to the lifestyle of that region. "Martha Stewart Southern Living" for example. That highlighted coastal living, rural farm living, etc. The products would be culturally specific to the region opening up access to market new ideas while educating and introducing to other regions the diversity of our nation.
The future looks very bright for any corporation that puts emphasis on the love, care, and comfort of the home.
Posted by: pamela dickert | May 29th, 2008 at 9:44 pm
I doubt this is a shareholder question, but have you ever thought of a line of healthy frozen foods? I'd buy Martha Stewart frozen lunches. I'm tired of Lean Cuisines and most of the other stuff out there is either tasteless or pretty fattening.
Posted by: Jennifer | May 29th, 2008 at 9:58 pm
HI Martha!
This was an interesting blog post, and I think some of the suggestions and comments are very good! I, too, would love to read the answers for many of these questions.
My question would be, would MSO ever think about doing a magazine or series of books geared towards teenagers and younger girls? We are a homeschooling family, and I know that within the homeschooling community at large there is a very great interest in training daughters to be wonderful homemakers. I have personally enjoyed your magazine, books, and television shows for years, but now that I have daughters, I would love to see some MSO products geared specifically towards them. They want to learn how to care for a home, and make it lovely, and I can't think of a teacher with greater expertise than Martha! And just as a side note, I was watching the Martha Stewart show on the Fine Living Channel today and was very intrigued by the question one of the audience members posed. She asked Martha for tips on what to do if you absolutely HATE housework. Martha's answer was that the lady just needed to change her attitude, etc., and that there was actually great joy and satisfaction in caring for a home. Well, I think that too many adult women don't like homemaking,and find no pleasure in it simply because they weren't trained and taught how do do such things when they were growing up. Therefore, I think a product geared towards young girls would be very successful for you, and would help bridge this "homemaking gap" in our modern day culture! Just an idea to take before your board!
Susan
Posted by: Susan | May 30th, 2008 at 12:25 am
I would ask if you consider entering the European market.
Posted by: Bill | May 30th, 2008 at 2:23 am
Now that the Shareholder's meeting is over, is it possible to share the slide presentations on your web site- Thanks
Posted by: Dave | May 30th, 2008 at 11:02 am
Can you not get the show sold to an English station so we can see it over here? I was in the US a month ago and it was great to see the show Thank goodness for your web site, which I love. Thanks
Posted by: Susie Parr | May 30th, 2008 at 11:08 am
Very interesting. I think it's really great that you guys are showing your shareholders all the good ideas in your company. The presentations look very informative. What are some of your big plans with Emeril? Is he going to have his own show? Or are there going to be like Emeril Fridays?
Posted by: ShopLittleGifts | May 30th, 2008 at 12:56 pm
I really enjoyed the segment today on canning . I think with the push on healthier meals and the economy being less healthy it would be nice to have a preservation and canning episode on occassion. I know very little about these things and would love to learn more.
Posted by: Barb | May 30th, 2008 at 3:11 pm
Hello Martha, I think you are doing great with your tv show. I tape it when I can not tune in to watch. You have wonderful receipes and we enjoy them.
Sandy
Posted by: Sandy | May 30th, 2008 at 11:45 pm
Martha:
Great Blog! Thanks for taking us behind the scenes of your annual shareholders meeting.
When are you going to open your own free-standing retail store...or perhaps an outlet like Ralph Lauren and Williams Sonoma have at the Woodbury Common Premium outlets complex in Harriman, NY. That way, you'd have a second chance to sell (and make available) previous season/discontinued merchandise leftover from Macys/K-mart.
And, oh yes, your K-mart flannel sheet sets are great and I have several. Please, please reproduce the "Sleigh ride" pattern from several years ago. They make me feel like I'm sleeping in a Christmas card! You made a similar set for Macys last year, but the Kmart "sleigh ride" set with a white background were really special.
I'm also looking for Cowboys and Indians flannel sheets (should I be admitting to this?) I guess everybody wants to buy back a piece of their childhood. I suppose that's why when you see these sort of "juvenile" sheets they come not only in twin, but full, queen and king!
Best Wishes,
Joseph
Posted by: Joseph Brennan | May 31st, 2008 at 12:16 am
.
Hi Martha,
Thank you for permitting parties to ask questions of the MSLO panel.
Here are mine:
1. What is today's status surrounding your animal publication?
2. Our ABC, CBS and NBC network news anchors, Charles Gibson, Katie Couric and Brian Williams, are partnering on a challenge this year -- to annihilate cancer.
I would like to see MSO incorporate our animal kingdom into this panorama.
My questions to the panel ARE ---
Is MSO still taking acquisitions?
Do you see it accenting MSO if it were to become the power house directorship of a national animal cancer charity?
The time is right as 'major media animals' plan to take the floor, network wide!
The National Cancer Society for Animals' 10 year portfolio of national resource and advancement speculators is looking for corporate power ownership.
A pet magazine with a national animal charity by its side provides for the public in ways that one can't do without the other.
My audience and I are interested in this idea. We are bringing it as a question to you and your audience through this excellent public forum you've established.
.
Thank you for recognizing our questions regarding possible interest in new and specific animal industry ventures!
Andrea Spencer
Retired CEO
National Cancer Society for Animals
.
Posted by: Andrea and the Weimaraners | May 31st, 2008 at 8:58 am
Hi Martha,
As someone who sews, and who received one of the machines you recommend for Christmas, I would ask about how MSLO's relationship with SVP has benefitted that company and vice versa. I would also ask what other shows or events you have planned regarding sewing. Thanks!
Posted by: Tina in Boston | May 31st, 2008 at 10:00 am
Hi, Martha,
Thanks for giving us a glimpse of the shareholders' meeting.
I would ask the panel if you are exploring even more ideas about aging and lifestyle as well as products that would make life easier. The Center dedicated to your Mom is wonderful. Many of us do not give the reality of getting older---or even disabled ---a thought. Many have their lives changed drastically. They no longer have the work that they love; they no longer have the ability to walk, lift, or carry to care for their homes and plants and pets as they once did; they have homes, either houses or apartments, that are not designed for the elderly or disabled. For these people---and most of us can be included in this category eventually if not already---not many options exist.
Thanks again.
Posted by: K | June 1st, 2008 at 7:33 pm
I am a stockholder and wondered why the price of the stock has dropped significantly?
Posted by: Maureen | June 7th, 2008 at 5:06 am
Hello Martha,
First, I want to congratulate for everything you do, you have the "touch"!!!
I saw that you have Carre's garden furniture. I have a set of 9. It had been in my family since 1975 when my father bought it to a wealthy man's relatives when he died.
I would like to know, just more or less, the actual value. They need paint and some repair, but they are in very good condition.
Thank you,
Merce
Posted by: Merce Benito | June 24th, 2008 at 11:16 am
Fortunately, we have a lot of really smart women in the business.
Posted by: Hydrimidiox | October 4th, 2009 at 4:58 am