Mar 22, 2016

RangeMe partners with Windy City Gift Show to bring innovative products to retail buyers

RangeMe, the online platform that streamlines new product discovery between suppliers and retailers, and Urban Expositions, one of the fastest growing trade show management companies in the United States, announced a partnership this week bringing greater efficiency to innovation in retail. Through the partnership, Urban Expositions’ Windy City Gift Show will leverage RangeMe’s technology to provide exhibiting suppliers and manufacturers greater reach to connect with retail buyers.

“Building relationships in-person is a valuable and essential part of the product discovery process,” said Nicky Jackson, CEO and founder of RangeMe. “We’re looking to enhance the trade show experience for both retail buyers and product suppliers.”

Now entering its sixth edition, the semi-annual Windy City Gift Show is custom-tailored to the specialized needs of Midwestern gift and home retailers. Scheduled for August 12-14, 2016 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Illinois, the show brings together a wide selection of giftware, accessories, artisan and fair trade crafts — all conveniently categorized within the show floor’s Gift, Gourmet, Makers’ Market and Live in Style sectors.

“We are always on the lookout for new innovations and strategic partnerships that make our shows even more valuable business growth resources for our buyers and exhibitors alike,” said Dean Russo, group show director, Urban Expositions. “The RangeMe platform offers an ideal, complementary way for us to expand the reach, product and service offerings of our Windy City and P3 Shows.”

RangeMe enables retailers with an efficient way to discover innovative new products and manage the inbound product submission process. Additionally, the platform gives suppliers increased control over the marketing of their products and greater access to retail buyers. RangeMe’s online matchmaking platform broke US ground in September 2015 with retail giant Target as their official launch partner. After the marketplace thrived for over a year in Australia, founder Nicky Jackson realized the platform was ready for the US market.

“Suppliers and manufacturers are constantly looking for efficient ways to market their products,” said Nicky. “This partnership gives retail buyers a way to discover innovation both online and in-person.”