News

Modest September Gains Reflect Conservative Consumer, According to NRF

Washington – Though September sales gains were moderate, they were better than expected, giving retailers a welcome surprise as they head into the ever-important holiday season. According to the National Retail Federation, retail industry sales... more »

Cottage Market to be expansion of Essie’s

This little store went to market.Three cottages are already in place at Cottage Market at the corner of St. Louis Street and College Avenue, and more are planned.In other words, Essie's Gift Shop, in business... more »

Big Retailers Cutting Prices to Reverse Weak Sales

Retailers are in for a tough fall — and consumers are in for deep discounts.Big chains reported a bleak September yesterday, with sales at stores open at least a year rising just 1.7 percent, the... more »

Retail Sales Outlook Diminishes

Blaming unusually balmy weather that quelled demand for fall fashions, department stores and apparel retailers reported some of the most disappointing results. J.C. Penney Co., Nordstrom Inc. and Limited Brands Inc. all cut their estimates... more »

New Product Introductions Inspire Retailers at the Fall 2007 Gift & Home Furnishings Market(tm) At the L.A. Mart

LA - The Fall 2007 Gift & Home Furnishings Market(tm) at the L.A. Mart stirred up retailers' product mixes for the upcoming holiday season with an exciting array of unique new products and complete new... more »

Iota Stationery Essentials Unveils 2008 Collection

Basalt, Colo. - Iota is pleased to announce its brand spanking new collection for 2008! Nine signature iota patterns will adorn paper goods including folded notecards, boxed notecard sets, gift wrap, journals, gift tags and... more »

New Luxe Living’ Section to Enhance GLM’s Global Home Sourcing Shows

White Plains NY - "Luxe Living" - a new area for high-end resources and distinctive, customized booths - will launch at Global Home Textiles and Global Home Decor, May 6-8, 2008, at the Sands Expo... more »

April Cornell Launches New Giving World Website

Burlington, Vt. - April Cornell provides an opportunity for charitable giving with the launch of its new website, givingworldfoundation.org. April Cornell has long been recognized for her philanthropic endeavors through The Giving World Foundation. Her... more »

Mud Pie Offers New Additions to its Quotables Collection

Tucker, Ga. - Perfect for every occasion and adorned with a themed charm, Mud Pie's Quotable Frames have proven to be one of the firm's most popular gift items. Retailing at only $10, the Quotable... more »

GHTA RAB Member Solves Keystone Challenge

Earlier this year, the Gift and Home Trade Association, the industry's non-profit professional trade association, issued a challenge to its members: find the origin of the word "keystone" as it's used in our industry. After... more »