Nov 5, 2008

Winter NYIGF seminars emphasize strategies for challening economic times

(WHITE PLAINS, NY) … A comprehensive series of educational sessions covering business issues pertinent to retailers will be among highlights of the 156th semi-annual New York International Gift Fair (NYIGF), Sunday, January 25, through Thursday, January 29, 2009, at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center and Passenger Ship Terminal Piers 90, 92 and 94. Exciting special events, displays and buyer promotions also will enhance the market experience for buyers and exhibitors.

With support from leading industry trade publications as well as key industry associations, NYIGF offers a series of seminars addressing current retailing issues and opportunities. This winter, subject matter is directed towards color and design trends, sustainability and retail strategies.

A free, daily introductory session will help orient newcomers to NYIGF, while eight additional onsite seminars will provide attendees valuable information and advice designed to foster business success. Topics include how to thrive in a changing economy, how to source, verify and retail “green” products, and how to utilize public relations. Future color tends will be presented, as well as an overview of the home goods market, from materials and styles to pricing.

“These sessions cover universal, yet current, issues and will benefit all retailers, regardless of their merchandise mix,” said Dorothy Belshaw, GLM senior vice president and NYIGF director. “We want to arm retailers with information and knowledge that strengthens their business, regardless of the economic climate.”

NYIGF’s popular “A Night on Broadway” will feature specially-priced tickets to hit musical Billy Elliot, on Tuesday, January 27. Tickets, normally priced at $114, are available for NY Market participants at $85, with the difference being absorbed by NYIGF.

Gift For Life’s Stakes Are High Casino will unite members of the gift and home industries against AIDS, on Sunday, January 25. Proceeds from the event, which features gaming, food, drink, music and dancing, benefit DIFFA: The Design Industries Foundation Fighting AIDS, one of the largest funders of HIV/AIDS service and education programs in the United States.

In addition, market participants are invited to visit the newly-opened Museum of Art & Design (MAD) in its new home at 2 Columbus Circle throughout the week at no charge, compliments of NYIGF, 7 West New York, 41 Madison and 230 Fifth Avenue.

All seminars and events require advance registration. Complete programs details, schedule information and registration are available online at www.nyigf.com/programs. For additional information and registration, contact GLM’s Customer Relations Department at 1-800-272-SHOW (7469), or (603) 665-7524.

NYIGF is the nation’s premier gift and home accessory marketplace, with 2,900+ exhibitors featuring an extraordinary breadth and depth of design-driven home fashion products and complementary giftware. NYIGF is held concurrently with Home Textiles Market Week at NYIGF (Javits Center and Passenger Ship Terminal Piers 90, 92 & 94), 230 Fifth Avenue and 7 West 34th Street. Some 36,000 buyers from around the world are expected to attend. Additional information, registration and on-line advance planning tools are available at www.nyigf.com.