Jan 26, 2018

LA Mart triumphs with debut of Temps on 2

Friday, January 19^th, was the kick off of the LA Mart’s renaissance of TEMPS ON 2 and its unique array of temporary exhibitors.  It has been nearly a decade since the LA Mart has produced a temp show during their Winter Market, and this revival of temporary exhibitors on the 2^nd floor was a smashing success!

“I’ve seen lots of great qualified buyers.” said Johnny Lin of King Max. “The great thing is that these are buyers that I haven’t seen in years. I’m excited to connect with them again. I’ve also seen several key accounts which provide great opportunities for volume purchases.”

Buyers were elated as TEMPS ON 2’s entrance paid tribute to the infamous Coconut Grove, maintaining the LA Mart’s Winter Market theme of commemorating their 60^th anniversary, all the while saluting Hollywood with the catch phrase Celebrating 60 Years In “Show Business.” The tagline gives nod to the fact that the Mart has been producing trade “shows” for 60 years as well.

“I’ve seen half existing customers and half new,” says Alec Bell of Melissa and Doug. “We need good West Coast representation and we want the LA Mart to be that.”

The state-of-the-art 2^nd floor flourished with nearly 100 curated, artisan driven lines most of which will not be showing in any other venue.  And, while there were wonderful highly recognizable National brand names such as Melissa and Doug, Legend Of Asia, Robin Reed, King Max, Morris Magnets and Wick’d Bean Candles, the floor was complimented with newer lines like Peace Waters, Dry Divas, Kololo, Trade Host, NewMade LA, Julia Sally Hats and Christina Anastasia.  In addition, brand new lines debuting their products were comprised of Elleffe Deisgn, Lawrence Beall, TINSELTOT and ZALAMOON, Level Naturals, Jones Katami, Shibue Couture, Excavade, 19 Candles, Old Pine Furniture, Wolf and Wyze all joining long-time exhibitors and superstars of Los Angeles which include; Lori Sicher Collection, Kathy Barrett/ Leaders in Leather, Shirley DeMarco & Assoc., Shay Candles, The Village, Luxe Group and Charm Kraft and Paul Beisler and Associates.

“As a very new brand, we were so happy to have opened multiple new accounts nationally and across California. This was the perfect place to introduce our brand to local buyers,” says Heidi Androl–Guzman of TINSELTOT and ZALAMOON.  “In terms of quality, we weren’t sure buyers would place orders on the spot… but they did!”  “It feels like it’s a family environment here and we love it!” says Laura O’Donnell of TINSELTOT and ZALAMOON.

Buyers were treated to special events such as complimentary happy hours that not only included free libations but also varied from day to day delivering a yummy mash potato bar, chicken marsala treats, peach and apple cobbler stations as well as daily fresh popcorn, and morning mimosas.  Further, the LA Mart 60^th anniversary commemorative market tote bag and free lunches were also presented exclusively on the TEMPS ON 2 floor, which kept the activity and upbeat energy at a palpable level.

“TEMPS ON 2 is permanently joining our stable of offerings here at the LA Mart and will be with us at every major Winter and Summer Market,” announces Frank Joens, SVP, General Manager, LA Mart.  “They look gorgeous, and are filled with new, interesting and unique lines plus, they are complementing our showroom’s lines beautifully.  We are elated to produce and add such an exciting addition to our Los Angeles marketplace.  If a buyer is truly looking to stand out and be unique in their product mix, the LA Mart is the place to find exclusive and distinctive products!”