Last week the world celebrated a very special birthday - one so special in fact that celebrations began around a month before. If you have no idea whose birthday that I'm talking about, then I'd need to ask you which planet you've been living on for the last year. The man of the hour (or month) is indeed our esteemed past president, and Father of the Nation, Nelson Mandela. So while we're in the celebratory mood, I'd like to point out another birthday taking place this week (albeit on a much smaller scale)... So please may I have a "hip hip hooray" for www.bizcommunity.com's first birthday! We're celebrating at our point of launch - Africa's Big Seven Retail Expo currently on at Gallagher Estate, Midrand. It's been a year of phenomenal growth, learning and, like any newborn, coupled with our share of teething troubles. I believe we are still a work in progress, as anything worth noting should never consider itself complete, but should always be driving for excellence and reaching for new heights. If ever you believe you've achieved perfection - in whatever field you may be in - think again, ask another opinion, there is always room for improvement. So it's on that note that I ask you, our readers, to help us become a better resource for you. Comment on our site, drop us an email, let us know what you think and what you're looking for... We're here for you and you're the ones who can help us grow. And to those who have been with us on our journey from the start, thank you for all your hard work and dedication - this is but a small token of our great appreciation. Coming back to our point of origin, if you're in the area, attending the expo, please come pay us a visit and help us celebrate!

Shan Radcliffe, Retail editor retailnews@bizcommunity.com