The 2021 winter markets are still different from past years, but will offer a combination of in-person and virtual events to support retail buyers and makers. Here is a summary of what to look for in the next few months and as of the writing of this article the information below was up-to-date, but please check the events page on the Gift Shop Plus website frequently for any shows that are rescheduled or canceled.

January kicks off with Dallas Total Home & Gift Market from Jan. 6-12, and Surf Expo that runs Jan. 6-8. LA Mart is open by appointment only during two separate weeks — Jan. 11-15 and Jan. 18-22.

Dallas Market Center has announced that more than 150 new, expanded and relocated showrooms will debut for January markets. “As a market center with tremendous flexibility we are able to respond quickly to serve buyers year-round with additional events to support their business. We are gearing up for a highly successful new year,” said Cindy Morris, president and CEO.

Atlanta Market, Jan. 12-19, and Las Vegas Market, Jan. 24-28, are being held in-person. For buyers unable to attend the markets, IMC_di’s legacy digital tools – ShopZio as well as Catalog Connexion, a library of interactive keyword-searchable exhibitor catalogs – enable buyers and designers to source and shop. A new “in-stock” filter provides access to nearly 60 brands, collectively with 120,000 SKUs noted by vendors as available for immediate shipment.

“The realignment of the Atlanta Market temporaries this winter reflects how modern retailers are buying in 2021: across category and with safety in mind,” said Scott Eckman, IMC chief revenue officer. “As we reinstate the temporary exhibits at Atlanta Market, we are taking this opportunity to fine tune the categories and collection locations to safely maximize the product discovery and exploration for retailers.”

In February, retail buyers can look to a virtual showing of NY NOW. “The Digital Market is a year-round discovery, connection, and lead generation platform for our community, and we were delighted to welcome more than 650 brands for its launch,” said Tim Hart, senior vice president, NY NOW. The Digital Market will remain online as an ongoing resource for buyers through the end of 2020 and beyond.

Shoppe Object made the decision to cancel the in-person February edition, noting it will continue digital services through Shoppe On. The digital platform will unveil a new season on Feb. 8, 2021.

Other in-person events include Atlanta Apparel, Feb. 2-5; Suretex, Feb. 2-5; The Gathering West, Feb. 9-11; International Fashion Jewelry & Accessory Show, Feb. 14-17; CAMEX Campus Market Expo, Feb. 22-26; Rocky Mountain Gift Show, Feb. 26-28; and Denver Apparel & Accessory Market, Feb 26-28.

Retailers can turn to the Atlanta Spring Mini Market from Mar. 3-5; Dallas Apparel Accessories Market, Total Home & Gift Market and KidsWorld, Mar. 23-26. Also in March, be on the lookout for some niche markets, such as Transworld’s Halloween & Attractions Show, Mar. 4-7 and Global Pet Expo, Mar. 24-26. If buyers are seeking toys, Toy Fest West dates were still TBD as of the time of press, but visit the Events Page on the website to keep up-to-date on the status of this show.

Winter markets are definitely different this year, but product introductions are still delighting the industry. Here are a few that stand out.

Personalized Talking Stick Bundle

Sincere Surroundings.

Foil Stamped Cards

Leanin’ Tree.

The Humboldt Bracelet

Moonglow Jewelry.

Celestial Heavens Pencil Set

Designworks Ink.

Above Boards Lake

My Word!

RBG Card

Cardthartic.

Water Element Diffuser

Kitras Art Glass.

Wind Chime

QMT Windchimes / Wind River.

Square Graywashed Planter Baskets, 2/Set

Col House Designs.

Vintage Flannel

The Coral Crab.

Spring Green Chunky Bunny

CWI Gifts.

America the Beautiful Mug

Enesco

Holiday Canvas Wine Bag

Karma Gifts.

Vinyl Stickers

Stickers Northwest.

Debbie Eisele

Debbie Eisele is the former managing editor for Gift Shop Plus, Stationery Trends and a variety of special issue publications, including: The Guide, Holiday Shop, Celebrations & Occasions and Waterfront Living.