National Stationery Show Pre-Show Report
Hundreds of new product debuts, full collections not seen in other markets, professional development at its very best, and events that bring the entire industry together will highlight the 65th annual National Stationery Show® (NSS), May 15-18, 2011, at New York City’s Jacob K. Javits Convention Center. Presenting nearly 900 exhibitors and attracting some 11,000 industry professionals, the 2011 NSS will provide participants with the resources, education and opportunities to build their businesses in 2011 and beyond.
THE MARKET
From up-and-coming talents making their mark, to industry leaders featuring the latest of their signature products, the resources at NSS 2011 are vast and diverse. Returning companies include such notables as Anna Griffin, Avanti, Cardthartic, Crane, DCWV, Envelopments, Graphique de France, Iota, Lallie, Mountaincow, Notes & Queries, Paper House Productions, Pierre Belvedere, Print Appeal, Smock Letterpress, The Gift Wrap Company, and the Wren Press. The design-driven, trend-setting products found on the Show floor among industry leaders and hundreds of young companies entering the market are representative of a category that, when added to any lifestyle gift product mix, have significant buyer appeal and great profit potential.
Beyond the Show floor, on opening day, NSS hosts the 2nd annual Future Conference, an intensive, 2-hour discussion about the synergies between the analog and digital worlds. Keynote speaker Seth Godin kicks off, and a panel discussion will further explore these synergies.
During the course of the market, NSS also presents a comprehensive lineup of seminars to address business, product and consumer trends; social media; and bridal. Speakers include Martha Stewart Weddings Editorial Director Darcy Miller, Sagon-Phior Chief Creative Director Rio Phior, Brides magazine Editor in Chief Millie Bratten, Stationery Trends Editor Sarah Schwartz, Gift Shop Publisher Patricia Norins, and more. In addition to education, industry events such as the NSS Opening Night Party and the Greeting Card Association’s LOUIE Awards will bring together thousands together for networking, socializing and fun.
“The National Stationery Show is unlike other markets in distinctive ways. Yes, it’s a tradeshow where buying and selling occurs. But, as the only event for this sector, it serves so many other purposes. The NSS is an industry convention where all sides come together to build their businesses and do the critical networking and learning that supports this changing yet thriving industry.”
“Retailers need to keep their merchandise fresh and exciting. Paper products are easily incorporated into most store environments, and immediately add design, fashion, trend and great profit potential. Simply put, anyone seriously invested in social stationery or seriously considering doing so, needs to be at this Show each year.” – Patti Stracher, Show Manager
MARKET HIGHLIGHTS
“The Paper Runway”
In partnership with Kate’s Paperie, this fashion exhibit reinforces the paper-fashion relationship by showcasing paper dresses from cutting-edge fashion designers, among them Lela Rose, Susan Woo, Yeohlee, Jen Kao, Donald Deal. Another element of The Paper Runway is the display of paper fashion and accessory designs created by visual merchandising and design students at New York City’s LIM College. These works will incorporate products from NSS exhibitors. In addition, the student creations will compete for a $1,000 cash prize from Kate’s and will be featured in the windows of Kate’s Paperie during Fashion Week. Voting is open to all Show participants Sunday, May 15 and Monday, May 16. One winner and two runners-up will be announced on Tuesday morning. Located in the connecting corridor between the two sides of the Show floor, the space also will feature paper fashions created by Kate’s Paperie designers and NSS exhibitor DCWV.
NSS Mobile App
This year the National Stationery Show will introduce its first mobile application, designed to help attendees navigate the Show more efficiently. Available for download on the NSS exhibitor and product search webpage athttp://search.nationalstationeryshow.com/mobile.aspx, and also through iTunes, the NSS app will allow uses to instantly search for exhibitors or products by name, product line, product category, or description, with results including company names and booth locations. In addition, the mobile app will provide details about NSS seminars, events and shuttle schedules, as well as the floorplan and an online Walking List – which can be created pre-show athttp://search.nationalstationeryshow.com/mobile.aspx. The application is compatible with Android, iPhone and Blackberry devices.
Future Conference – “Put It On Paper: The Importance of Pen and Ink in the Digital Age”
Sunday, May 15, 7:30 – 10:00am
Jacob K. Javits Convention Center
A serious discussion about the future of the stationery industry in the internet era is the focus of the 2nd annual National Stationery Show Future Conference. Entitled “Put it on Paper: The Importance of Pen and Ink in the Digital Age,” this year’s Future Conference follows the enormous success of last year’s launch. The conference will open with keynote speaker Seth Godin, best-selling author and marketing entrepreneur, and founder of Squidoo.com. A panel discussion entitled “The Analog is Mightier than the Digital – Believe It!” will follow, with discussion focused on how the synergies of a retailer’s online presence with their brick and mortar business can grow their bottom line. Panelists include Holly Bretschneider, president and chief style officer of Salutations; Maude Standish, trend forecaster from The Intelligence Group; Harold Kyle, co-owner and co-founder of Smock Letterpress and Bella Figura; Eliza Browning, d irector of Crane Digital at Crane & Co.; and Nole Garey, founder of blog Oh So Beautiful Paper. Tickets are available for $75 through the NSS website at www.nationalstationeryshow.com, or with pre-Show registration.
Trend Walkway
Positioned on both sides of the Crystal Palace, the Trend Walkway reveals the latest trend predictions seen through the eyes of leading editors from Martha Stewart Weddings, Stationery Trends, GREETINGS etc., Gift Shop, Gifts & Dec andGiftware News.
New Product Display and Best New Product Awards The latest products, many of which will make their debut at NSS 2011, will be featured within the New Product Display. Prominently located in the Crystal Palace Lobby, the display offers a sneak peek at new products within these new 2011 categories: All Things Wedding, Celebrations, Eco-Chic, Lifestyle, Luxury, Paper Style, and The Desktop. The New Product Display also serves as the judging arena for the coveted Best New Product Awards, which will be determined by an esteemed group of editors. In addition, a “Delegate’s Choice” award will be selected by a group of VIP buyers, from among all entries. Winners will be announced on Sunday, May 15.
The Supply Side Division
The Supply Side returns in 2011, once again as a division of the NSS. The Supply Side exhibitors – including finishing specialists, including die-cutting, die-making, foil/hot stamping, embossing, holography, lamination, packaging/box specialists, converters, paper manufacturers, specialty printing/thermography, production machinery, envelope manufacturers, custom displays/fixturing systems and other suppliers – will benefit from direct contact with some 11,000 NSS exhibitors and attendees through prominent position within the NSS marketplace. The division will be located in 3E Hall. To apply for exhibit space, or to register as an attendee, visit www.nationalstationeryshow.com.
PROGRAMS
Future Conference – “Put It On Paper: The Importance of Pen and Ink in the Digital Age”
Sunday, May 15, 7:30 – 10:00am
Jacob K. Javits Convention Center
A serious discussion about the future of the stationery industry in the internet era is the focus of the 2nd annual National Stationery Show Future Conference. Entitled “Put it on Paper: The Importance of Pen and Ink in the Digital Age,” this year’s Future Conference follows the enormous success of last year’s launch. The conference will open with keynote speaker Seth Godin, best-selling author and marketing entrepreneur, and founder of Squidoo.com. A panel discussion entitled “The Analog is Mightier than the Digital – Believe It!” will follow, with discussion focused on how the synergies of a retailer’s online presence with their brick and mortar business can grow their bottom line. Panelists include Holly Bretschneider, president and chief style officer of Salutations; Maude Standish, trend forecaster from The Intelligence Group; Harold Kyle, co-owner and co-founder of Smock Letterpress and Bella Figura; Eliza Browning, d irector of Crane Digital at Crane & Co.; and Nole Garey, founder of blog Oh So Beautiful Paper. Tickets are available for $75 through the NSS website at www.nationalstationeryshow.com, or with pre-Show registration.
Buyer Education
From “Top Product Trends to Watch” to “Creative Email Marketing Strategies to Boost Business”, the 2011 NSS seminar lineup promises to deliver a diverse platform of subject matter for a well-rounded professional development experience. Notable industry experts will share their insight, including Martha Stewart Weddings Editorial Director Darcy Miller, Sagon-Phior Chief Creative Director Rio Phior, Stationery Trends Editor Sarah Schwartz, Gift ShopPublisher Patricia Norins and others. For additional details, visit www.nationalstationeryshow.com. Seminars can be selected and purchased during the Show registration process, or added through the Registration Resource Center for those who have already registered for the NSS.
Exhibitor Education
“Rep 101,” “Social Media Marketing,” and “Offshore Sourcing” are on tap for exhibitor education, providing business-building insight through both traditional and new methods. Confirmed exhibitors may register for these programs atwww.nationastationeryshow.com.
Daily Demos
Presented by Greetings, etc. magazine, Daily Demos return this year to feature such themes as gift wrapping and packaging techniques, ribbon design, baby-themed projects, bridal-themed projects, personalized items, and eco-friendly items. Daily Demos are free of charge and will take place in the Demo Theater, located on the Show floor. Complete Daily Demo descriptions will be available at www.nationalstationeryshow.com beginning in April.
SPECIAL EVENTS
Opening Night Party – “Party on the Battery”
Sunday, May 15, 6:30 – 9:30 pm
Battery Gardens
After a much-acclaimed Opening Night Party in 2010, the NSS returns to Battery Gardens for the industry’s top social and networking gathering of the year. A Manhattan oasis positioned along the water’s edge with panoramic views of New York Harbor, Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty, “Party on the Battery” promises to be a true New York City experience. Tickets are $65 per person, and tables of 10 are available on a limited basis by contacting Stephanie Leon-Santiago at ssantiago@glmshows.com. Early ticket purchase is recommended, as this event sells out each year. Attendees may purchase tickets when registering for the Show, and exhibitors may purchase tickets atwww.nationalstationeryshow.com. Complimentary Shuttle service provided.
GCA’s LOUIE Awards Gala
Monday, May 16, 7:00 – 10:00 pm
Espace, New York City
Presented by the Greeting Card Association (GCA), the LOUIE Awards celebrate the year’s most original and creative greeting cards in a variety of categories, including the Grand Prize “Card of the Year”. This year’s theme – Connection: It’s in the Cards – highlights the history of greeting cards and also corresponds to today’s ‘connected’ society where, despite the prominence of the digital age, the category is vibrant and strong. Sponsorship and ticket information is available by visiting www.greetingcard.org. Complimentary shuttle service provided.
The Supply Side Networking Reception
Tuesday, May 17, 5:30 – 7:30 pm
Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, Level 3, Hall E
Suppliers to the social stationery industry exhibiting within The Supply Side division will have dedicated time to connect with NSS exhibitors during The Supply Side Networking Reception, where a casual atmosphere and complimentary refreshments will foster networking among colleagues. Advance registration is not required.
STAY CONNECTED
NSS Mobile App
This year the National Stationery Show will introduce its first mobile application, designed to help attendees navigate the Show more efficiently. Available for download on the NSS exhibitor and product search webpage athttp://search.nationalstationeryshow.com/mobile.aspx , and also through iTunes, the NSS app will allow uses to instantly search for exhibitors or products by name, product line, product category, or description, with results including company names and booth locations. In addition, the mobile app will provide details about NSS seminars, events and shuttle schedules, as well as the floorplan and an online Walking List – which can be created pre-show athttp://search.nationalstationeryshow.com/mobile.aspx. The applicatio n is compatible with Android, iPhone and Blackberry devices.
Show Daily
Stationery Today will serve as the official daily publication of the National Stationery Show for the fourth consecutive year. Published by Great American Publishing – publishers of Stationery Trends, Party & Paper Retailer and Museums & More – the Show Daily features breaking exhibitor news, the latest product launches, trend insight, Show news and more. Pick up a copy on your way into the Show each day. To advertise, contact Brian Virgona 570-223-9190 or emailsales@stationerytrendsmag.com.
Online Catalog Gallery
The Online Catalog Gallery, available for viewing through www.nationalstationeryshow.com, offers retailers the opportunity to browse exhibitor catalogs before, during and after the National Stationery Show. The page-by-page browse books give retailers a sneak peek at what will be seen on the NSS Show floor. For participating exhibitors, the key benefit of the Online Catalog Gallery is the lead-generating capability, which extends the life of the Show from four days to a full year. To participate, email Stephanie Leon-Santiago at ssantiago@glmshows.com.
Social Media
One of the more effective ways to stay in touch with the NSS, as well as thousands of Show participants, is to connect with us through Twitter and Facebook. Become a Facebook fan at www.facebook.com/NationalStationeryShow and follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/stationeryshow. In addition, a complete library of NSS videos is available on our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/stationeryshow.
National Stationery Show Blog
National Stationery Show attendees and exhibitors can stay in touch with show management’s point of view about everything from trend-spotting to the latest show development, through the NSS blog. Contributing staff writers represent senior show management, sales, and marketing, assuring readers insight from every perspective. Visitwww.nationalstationeryshow.com.
Paperclips
With more than 35,000 subscribers, the official enewsletter of the National Stationery Show offers unique perspectives about the industry, business and trends, as well as breaking Show news. To subscribe, or access the archive of past issues, visit www.nationalstationeryshow.com .
STATUS® – Official National Stationery Show Directory
The official printed directory of exhibitors, available onsite, allows attendees to navigate the Show floor more efficiently. In addition, the online version offers year-round visibility of exhibitors to a captive audience of stationery retailers.
Visit www.nationalstationeryshow.com to access the online directory, or for information regarding STATUS print advertising.
CROSS MARKET OPPORTUNITIES
Additional benefit to NSS attendees is available through collocations with SURTEX®, the only B2B marketplace in North America for selling and licensing original art and design; and the International Contemporary Furniture Fair® (ICFF®), North America’s singular showcase for contemporary design. A NSS badge will provide access to all three markets, which combined will attract 42,000 buyers and 2,800 exhibitors, manufacturers and distributors. Additional information for these collocated markets is available online, at www.surtex.com and www.icff.com.
PRODUCTS REPRESENTED
The products showcased at the National Stationery Show includes greeting cards, invitations, imprintables, giftwrap/ribbons, social stationery, specialty party supplies and paper tableware, bridal accessories, customized/personalized products, in-store printing equipment, decorative home office products, luxury leather goods, writing instruments, papercrafting supplies, frames, journals, calendars, lifestyle giftware, scrapbooking and back-to-school. And, in The Supply Side division, finishing specialists, including die-cutting, die-making, foil/hot stamping, embossing, holography, lamination, packaging/box specialists, converters, paper manufacturers, specialty printing/thermography, production machinery, envelope manufacturers and custom displays/fixturing systems will exhibit.
PROFILE OF ATTENDEES
Retail
The NSS attracts a diverse global attendance of 11,000 buyers from stationery, card, gift and lifestyle stores; bookstores; fashion boutiques; bridal shops; hospital gift shops; party stores; department, chain and specialty stores; museum and gallery shops, large chains and “big box” mass retailers; online retailers and mail order catalogs; as well as importers and distributors.
Non-Retail
Manufacturers, Distributors, Suppliers, Manufacturers’ representatives, Licensing agents, Artists, Designers, Consumer and Trade Press
WEBSITE>
www.nationalstationeryshow.com
EXHIBITOR INFORMATION
Kelly P. Bristol, sales manager GLM
Telephone: (914) 421-3228
E-mail: kbristol@glmshows.com
ATTENDEE INFORMATION
GLM Customer Relations
(800) 272-SHOW (7469)
Registration for the 2011 National Stationery Show is open, and requires your attention this year. No longer will the NSS automatically mail badges to past attendees – instead, this year everyone is asked to pre-register to receive an e-badge. The easy, new registration process can be completed in less than 3 minutes, and aims to simplify the experience by providing buyers with the opportunity to not only register for the Show, but also select and purchase events and seminars at the same time. The e-badge sent after acceptance of your registration can be brought to a badge print terminal at NSS, and quickly printed for immediate access to the Show floor.
For qualified buyers, the pre-registration process still provides complimentary registration. For those registering onsite, a $50 fee will apply.
BUYER SERVICES
Shuttle Buses
Complimentary shuttle buses will run on all Show days between the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center and designated hotels. Exact schedules and routes will be posted daily at the Javits Center and are available online, atwww.nationalstationeryshow.com.
Travel & Housing Assistance
Travel Planners, Inc.
(800) 221-3531 or (212) 532-1660
webres@tphousing.com
www.myGLMtravel.com
ENJOY THE BIG APPLE
NYC & Company – the Convention and Visitors Bureau – and GLM have teamed-up to offer discounts on dining, entertainment, transportation and services throughout New York City. General tourist information is available through NYC & Company at 800-NYC-VISIT (800-692-8474) or (212) 397-8222. A complete list of discounts will be available online at www.nationalstationeryshow.com in advance of the Show, and through the Special Events desk in the Javits Centers’ Crystal Palace lobby during all Show days.
