Oct 6, 2017

New Artisan Alley to debut at winter 2018 Philadelphia, Seattle Gift Shows

In an effort to connect even more artisans with retailers seeking one-of-a-kind designs and other unique finds at its regional gift shows, Urban Expositions will launch Artisan Alley at the Winter 2018 Philadelphia Gift Show (January 5-8) and Seattle Gift Show (January 20-23). Joining the popular Makers’ Market handcrafted section at both shows, Artisan Alley will feature curated tabletop display spaces for artisans to showcase and sell works in an array of gift, home and fashion categories.

“Our Makers’ Market handcrafted section has always been a key destination area for  retailers. In survey after survey, retailers ask for even more artisan quality crafts, regional specialties and distinctive designs to help differentiate their stores,” says Lisa Glosson, vice president, gift/souvenir, Urban Expositions. “We’re launching Artisan Alley to offer a cost-effective entry point for emerging artists to test the waters at a B2B trade show.”

Artisan Alley is open to artists and designers hoping to showcase crafts in all media and across such categories as ceramics, textiles, jewelry, home décor, apparel and more. As part of their exhibit package, they will receive an 8’ high top table, bar stool and a robust marketing package to help promote their offerings to attendees.

“Artisan Alley is definitely a win-win for retailers and artists alike,” adds Christina Bell, vice president, gift/souvenir, Urban Expositions. “The tabletop display option opens the door for more artists to participate in our shows  – adding a whole new dimension to the handcrafted resources our buyers can explore.”

Significantly expanding the handcrafted resources featured at both shows, the new Artisan Alley tabletop showplace will be positioned alongside the Makers’ Market areas on each show floor.

During the January 20-23, 2018 Seattle Gift Show at the Washington State Convention Center, Artisan Alley joins Makers Market, as well the growing Urban Craft Uprisingpavilion, which featuring works from artisans who are part of Seattle’s largest indie craft show. Together, these three show features will bring the show’s buying audience – retailers from Alaska, Washington, California, Montana, Oregon, Idaho and Canada – countless fresh new designs to explore. The Winter edition also puts an expanded product focus on the souvenir/resort sector, further expanding the offerings. In addition, the selection at the Seattle Gift Show also joins to top lines and brands featured at the Seattle Mart permanent showroom building as part of Seattle Market Week.

Artisan Alley will run alongside the growing Makers’ Market section during the January 5-8, 2018 Philadelphia Gift Show at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center, which attracts retailers from throughout Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, Maryland, Virginia, Washington, DC and beyond. Further expanding the show offerings for its retailer base this Winter, the all-category Philadelphia Gift Show will once again co-locate with the Philadelphia National Candy, Gift & Gourmet Show, featuring a wide array of  chocolate, gourmet specialties, candy, plush items and more.

The new Artisan Alley features at both shows will also be backed by show hospitality events, retailer awards and more. Look for more information coming soon.