Dallas Market Center records highest August market attendance in 5 years
Dallas Market Center reports the best attendance in five years across Apparel & Accessories Market, KidsWorld, WESA’s International Western/English Apparel & Equipment Market, and the AETA International Trade Show. In addition to the total attendance record, the market welcomed more new stores than in the past four years, significant growth from key U.S. regions and an increase of nearly 100% in international buyers.
“The August markets underscored the strength of our marketplace and our national draw,” said Cindy Morris, president and CEO of Dallas Market Center. “We saw growth across every retail category, with more new stores, and gains from every U.S. region as buyers confidently placed orders from exhibitors across our marketplace.’
Attendance gains were noted from the immediate region as well as the Midwest, Northeast, Southeast, Southwest and West, confirming that Dallas markets continue to draw buyers from coast to coast.
Apparel & Accessories Market – Aug. 12 – 15
During the August market, buyers explored new and expanded resources across all apparel and accessories categories, with an interest in both permanent and temporary exhibitors offering a wide range of apparel, footwear and accessories. Cash & Carry exhibitors remained a key draw for retailers seeking ready-to-purchase merchandise to immediately refresh their assortments, along with orders for on-trend merchandise for the next season.
KidsWorld – Aug. 12 – 15
Buyers were able to find fresh merchandise for children during KidsWorld, which also welcomed new exhibitors to the 8th floor. KidsWorld Studio also brought new and returning temporary exhibitors for even more selection.
Longtime exhibitor Jill Griffith, owner of Cultivated Kids, said, “The market went very well, and we saw continued to see more stores from across the country. Buyers appreciate the ease of travel and the convenience of having everything under one roof. Sales remain strong, and despite some concern about the economy the overall outlook is positive.”
WESA’s International Western/English Apparel & Equipment Market – Aug. 13 – 16
Dallas continues to be the No. 1 marketplace in the world for retailers seeking bestsellers and trending styles in western apparel, accessories and footwear. From timeless tradition to the trending tones, cuts and styles appealing to consumers captivated by pop icons Beyonce and Post Malone, the market delivered what is in demand at western stores and contemporary boutiques across the U.S.
“The recent WESA Trade Show was another success for members and buyers,” said Sophia Jagella, marketing specialist, Western & English Sales Association. “This August, innovation took center stage with new exhibitors, exciting products, and the Most Innovative Product Award. Although the August edition is the smaller of the two biannual shows, it continues to grow each year with more buyers, more exhibitors, and strong momentum evident from the very first days of the show.”
Chaedrea Kenley, of Double J Saddlery, added, “We were impressed with the quality of buyers who are committed to American-made products, which means a lot to us as a family business. The combination of Dallas Market and WESA continues to be a winning formula for our brand and our customers.”
AETA International Trade Show – Aug. 13 – 16
The American Equestrian Trade Association (AETA) show on the 10th floor presented new styles of apparel, accessories, footwear, tack, and more in temporary booths. AETA exhibitors were located across from the Western and English expansion of permanent showrooms featuring additional apparel, accessories, and equipment from leading English brands. Retailers from across the U.S. and internationally who are in the business of riding competition and lifestyle descended on Dallas for the largest selection of products.
To meet retailer demand for immediate product, the Cash & Carry temps were also located on the 10th floor, offering a wide selection of on-trend, ready-to-purchase items.
“We were completely booked with appointments and saw great traffic throughout the show,” said Amy Schade MacDonald, US Agent for Ego7, TRUST Equestrian, Sixteen Cypress and Welligogs. “And the attendees were so happy to buy all the new goods we were offering. The market layout is easy to navigate, and Dallas is a fun and productive place to do business. I love attending markets there!”
“The AETA Market has been an important expansion for me and a perfect fit for my equestrian-inspired pieces,” said Lisa Peterson, owner and designer of V2 Designs. “Selling from a permanent showroom during Apparel & Accessories markets gave me a strong foundation, but joining AETA has helped me grow sales even further. The show is fun, busy, and filled with customers.”
The final Apparel & Accessories Market of the year will take place October 21–24.
