Oct 29, 2013

Energetic October 2013 Market Cheers Buyers and Manufacturers at The California Market Center

Steady traffic, enthusiastic retailers, and a memorable anniversary celebration were among the highlights of the October Gift & Home Market, held concurrently with the L.A. Fashion Market, held October 13-16, 2013 at the California Market Center (CMC).

“The California Market Center is the intersection of Gift, Home, Design, Children’s and Fashion on the west coast, and running both of these markets at the same time allows gift/home retailers a unique chance to discover new and lucrative fashion accessories resources, while at the same time encourages fashion buyers to add best-selling giftware and seasonal products to their merchandise mix,” comments Gerry Seibel, Vice President of New Business Development.

Showroom owners in the Gift/Home/Design division of CMC were excited about attendance and buyer interest in products. Mickey Lang, president/founder of the leading sales organization California Marketing Associates whose showroom occupies over 40,000 sq. ft. in CMC’s 13th floor Penthouse, was particularly pleased by the results of the Fall Market. “Things were jumping in our showroom! We saw our regular buyers, plus loads of buyers we had never seen before, especially from kid’s stores who came in to attend the Fashion Market. We even saw international retailers from as far away as Florence, Italy and New Zealand. CMA is very happy with the results of this seasonal show, and appreciates the opportunities to attract brand new buyers!” states Lang.

In addition to large, steady crowds, one of the great highlights of the dual markets was a celebration of the 50th anniversary of the California Market Center. The champagne reception, held in the large, light-filled lobby of CMC, attracted hundreds of buyers and exhibitors who also came to hear a keynote address by Eric Garcetti, the newly elected Mayor of Los Angeles. In his touching remarks about the importance of CMC to the Los Angeles economy and its creative community, Garcetti noted that he, himself represents the fourth generation of a family involved in the fashion manufacturing business. “It feels like I’ve come home,” commented Mayor Garcetti.

The next major Gift & Home Market will take place January 21-27, 2014.

For additional information on upcoming Gift, Home, Design, and Fashion events, please visit www.californiamarketcenter.com