industry news

• Discount and Value Retailers Benefit as Shoppers Shift Buying Patterns
  Posted Date: 09/02/2008
  TNS Retail Forward reports that shoppers are seeking one-stop shopping venues and stores closer to home to save time and gasoline. more

• CBK to Launch Children’s Accessories and Gift Division in September
  Posted Date: 08/29/2008
  The children’s line will include jewelry, music and other fun accessories. more

• Oddity, Inc., Announces SMI as New Sales Group in Dallas Trade Mart
  Posted Date: 08/28/2008
  Retailers can meet the SMI team and see Oddity’s products at the Dallas Trade Mart during the September 13–15 market. more

• Finalists for 20th Annual ARTS Awards Announced
  Posted Date: 08/27/2008
  The Dallas Market Center and the Accessories Resource Team will present awards in 26 categories during the January market. more

show news

• Buyers Active at Summer New York International Gift Fair
  Posted Date: 09/04/2008
  Category refinement and new products strengthen end-of-season buying at the NYIGF. more

• Trendsetting Begins at World Market Center Las Vegas
  Posted Date: 09/03/2008
  HGTV Design Star Tym DeSanto puts style on file with an on-demand video previewing next season’s home furnishings. more

• Dallas Market Center Launches Global New Product Search
  Posted Date: 09/02/2008
  The winner of “The Next Big Thing” contest will receive a prize package worth more than $10,000. more

• Summer 2008 SFIGF Called ‘Hip, Hot and Happening’
  Posted Date: 08/29/2008
  Emmy award–winning journalist Jan Wahl invites attendees to the ‘inauguration’ of an all-new San Francisco International Gift Fair February 10–17, 2009. more

editor’s corner

This economy is affecting all aspects of the gift industry including the trade shows, an important part of the industry. Many markets are seeing a slow-down in customer traffic, and some shows have shut down all together. There definitely is a change in the air, but what will it mean for the industry? See my thoughts in my blog and comments from others regarding what the future might bring.