W. Clay Hamner: Vendors still important for Southern Season

As a follow-up to the July 17 letter “Avoiding Southern Season,” which referred to my attempt to explain Southern Season’s reorganization process, I want to be sure there is no misunderstanding about the respect we have for all of our vendors – and especially the small artisan vendors who depend on us as an outlet for their goods just as we depend on their great products.

For over 40 years, Southern Season has been a place to learn about, sample and purchase specialty products from artisan vendors. It is a place where these vendors join our staff and loyal customers share a passion for specialty food.

I believe that passion is why, despite the restrictions of the reorganization process, the vast majority of our vendors remain committed to making their products available in our stores.

I want to be clear about our goals: By rejecting leases at the closed stores, we can focus our efforts on our current stores, our employees and the exceptional vendors whose products have made Southern Season a destination shopping experience since 1975.

This story was originally published July 19, 2016 at 6:06 PM with the headline "W. Clay Hamner: Vendors still important for Southern Season."