ACRA Charrette

The 3rd Annual ACRA Charrette was hosted by the David F. Miller Center for Retailing Education and Research at the University of Florida in March 17 through March 21st, 2009.

A Charrette is a real-world business competition. This year, selected students from 12 universities (the University of Florida, Indiana University, the University of Arkansas, the University of Alabama at Birmingham, Georgia Southern University, Florida State University, the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Albright College, Michigan State University, Tampa Art Institute, Ryerson University in Canada and Brunel University in UK) in multi-disciplines (marketing, retailing, finance, merchandising, product development, interior design, etc.) worked together intensely to reach a resolution for a challenge presented by a client. This year's client was Ron Jon Surf Shop. The challenge was to develop a business plan for opening a new store in Destin, FL (marketing / communication / merchandising / financial plan) and design a retail environment that embodies the brand image of a retail client and optimizes the opportunities that Ron Jon Surf Shop can provide in a new location.

What is a Charrette?

Experiential Learning Opportunities of Charrette

2009 Challenge

Ron Jon Surf Shop Project and Programs

First Place Team

Orange: Video | Slides

Second Place Teams

Photo Gallery