Top 10 news stories of 2024
These 10 news stories were the most read in 2024.
1. Studio M to close its doors
After 35 years in business, outdoor décor and gift brand Studio M ceased operations in April 2024.
2. DEMDACO purchases Studio M
In May, DEMDACO purchased the Studio M brand, which is composed of an array of artful home and garden décor made in the U.S.
3. Ivystone acquires OneCoast
Ivystone Group acquired OneCoast as of Oct. 31st, OneCoast announced on Nov. 4. Ivystone and OneCoast will continue to operate as separate companies.
4. Dallas Market Center names 2025 market dates
The market dates include a shift in the March 2025 markets to better serve retailers and to manage regional holidays including spring breaks.
5. Import cargo could see surge ahead of potential port strike, Trump tariffs
Import volumes at the nation’s major container ports could be higher than previously expected for the remainder of this year as retailers face another potential East Coast/Gulf Coast port strike and tariff increases planned by President-elect Donald Trump, according to the Global Port Tracker report.
6. Atlanta Market launches winter 2024 buying event
Atlanta Market’s winter’s gift and home buying event offered new and expanded discovery opportunities, resources from more than 6,000 product lines, and a packed schedule of education, events and amenities.
7. nora fleming set to raise more than $1M for St. Jude
nora fleming is on track to donate a sum of more than $1 million to support St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital when the six-year partnership culminated in the spring.
8. Just Got 2 Have It! debuts new Atlanta showroom in January 2025
Just Got 2 Have It!’s Gift and Lifestyle divisions will come together on the 17th floor of Building 2 in adjacent spaces, creating a more cohesive and collaborative environment.
9. NRF: Steady sales growth expected for 2024 holiday season
The National Retail Federation forecasted that 2024 holiday spending is expected to grow between 2.5% and 3.5% over 2023.
10. GSMA names newly elected 2024-2026 Board of Directors
The Gift Sales Manager Association elected its new Board of Directors for the 2024-2026 term.
