Priorities 2 Rebrands as Next Step Midwest!

Robin Risvold to join the Next Step team alongside Jackie Moon and Andrea McEvoy

Next Step is excited to expand its representation as Priorities 2 becomes Next Step Midwest. Priorities 2 was founded 22 years ago by Robin Risvold as a full-service manufacturers representative agency and covers the states of Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin. Adding to this expansion, Next Step Midwest will be holding a grand opening of a new permanent showroom at the Minneapolis Mart for the spring show March 7 – 11, 2025.

Over the years Priorities 2 has built a reputation for excellence in retail representation in the gift industry. Robin’s vision for the agency was born out of her deep passion for retail—spanning placement, education, merchandising, and cultivating long-lasting relationships. This commitment to excellence and innovation aligns seamlessly with Next Step’s mission to provide premier representation and unparalleled value for vendors and retailers.

“We are thrilled about the opportunities this expansion unlocks, paving the way for growth, innovation, and new possibilities,” said Andrea McEvoy, Co-Founder of Next Step. “Robin Risvold and her team have built a legacy of expertise and trust in the Midwest. By joining forces, we are strengthening our ability to serve vendors and retailers with broader reach, enhanced resources, and an even greater commitment to excellence.”

The merger with Priorities 2 marks a significant milestone for Next Step, extending its territory to include 21 states nationwide. With decades of combined experience and a reputation for representing the top vendors in the industry, Next Step continues to provide exceptional service in categories such as Home Décor, Gifts, Lifestyle, Jewelry, Accessories, Apparel, Garden, Gourmet/Entertainment, Bath & Body, and Custom.

Robin Risvold, the founder of Priorities 2, shared her enthusiasm for the partnership: “Joining forces with Next Step is a natural evolution for Priorities 2. We share a dedication to building strong relationships and providing exceptional service to vendors and retailers. This transition allows us to leverage the best of both organizations while staying true to the values that built Priorities 2’s success over the past two decades.”

In addition to expanding its reach, Next Step is excited to offer enhanced opportunities to vendors and retailers in the Midwest. This includes expanded marketing capabilities, key account access, showroom support, and tailored resources for growth. These synergies will empower both teams to elevate their service and create a stronger regional network.

Jackie Moon, Co-Founder of Next Step, emphasized the importance of this expansion: “As our industry evolves, so do we. Bringing Priorities 2 into the Next Step family reinforces our commitment to adaptability, innovation, and long-term partnerships. Together, we’re building a brighter future for our vendors, our retailers, and the communities we serve.”

This expansion celebrates the values that drive Next Step and Priorities 2: collaboration, customer focus, and a shared passion for retail excellence. We look forward to this new chapter as we continue to grow and serve as a trusted partner in the Midwest and beyond.

Next Step is a division of Diverse Companies.