The Chicago Market Introduces Culturally Rich South African Pavilion at Beckman’s Handcrafted Show
The collaborative efforts between the Department of Trade and Industry South Africa, the South African Consulate General in Chicago and The Chicago Market have resulted in the creation of a special South African pavilion in the Beckman’s Handcrafted area of the show.
The Beckman’s Handcrafted Show showcases the best in original work to discerning specialty retailers looking to differentiate themselves from their competition. Reflecting trends in the industry through the original work of true artists, Beckman’s Handcrafted is a unique and affordable opportunity for artists to establish their brand, build their business, and grow as an artist.
The pavilion will feature ten talented artists selected by The Department of Trade and Industry South Africa. These ten artists will showcase their unique handmade products across all product categories.
The Chicago Market was identified as a powerful entry point in which the artisans of South Africa could expose their unique handmade products to the US market. The Chicago platform gives them access to thousands of retailers who seek a unique offering for their stores and support handmade products.
The South African government recognizes the potential that the craft industry brings to their country in job creation and economic stability for both urban and rural communities.
“Beckman’s Handcrafted is experiencing tremendous growth”, said Robin Flaherty, Director of Beckman’s Handcrafted Sales. “The addition of the South African artisans brings an element of product design that is rich in history and culture. Buyers who purchase these products are also making a philanthropic impact on the economic status of the communities in which these artisans come from. We are proud to represent these crafters in our show. “
Beckman’s Handcrafted is located on the 8th floor of the Merchandise Mart in Chicago and runs from July 21-July 24, 2012.
2012 CALENDAR SCHEDULE
THE CHICAGO MARKET DAYS AND HOURS
Thursday, July 19 – Friday, July 20
Showrooms: 9 am – 6 pm | Floors 13, 14
Saturday, July 21 – SHOP LATE NIGHT
Showrooms: 9 am – 8 pm | Floors 13, 14
Temporaries and Beckman’s Handcrafted Show: 9 am – 6 pm | Floor 8
Sunday, July 22 – Monday, July 23
Showrooms: 9 am – 6 pm | Floors 13, 14
Temporaries and Beckman’s Handcrafted Show: 9 am – 6 pm | Floor 8
Tuesday, July 24
Showrooms: 9 am – 6 pm | Floors 13, 14
Temporaries and Beckman’s Handcrafted Show: 9 am – 3 pm | Floor 8
Wednesday, July 25
Showrooms: 9 am – 5 pm | Floors 13, 14
THE CHICAGO FALL MARKET
September 21-23, 2012
Running in conjunction with The International Casual Furniture and Accessories Market
Note: Dates are subject to change, please check www.shopchicagomarket.com for up to date calendars
The Chicago Market: is a trademark of Merchandise Mart Properties, Inc. (MMPI). Beckman’s Handcrafted Show™ is a registered trademark of MMPI. The Chicago Market is a quarterly wholesale tradeshow designed for store owners, retail buyers and designers. The market offers a wide array of quality products ranging from home accents and furniture to handcrafted to collectible items, holiday, baby/children’s product, gourmet and more. The Chicago Merchandise Mart is located at 222 Merchandise Mart Plaza, Chicago, IL 60654. For more information call 800.677.6278 (MART) or visit www.shopchicagomarket.com.
Merchandise Mart Properties, Inc. (MMPI) is a trade show and property management firm, specializing in managing buildings devoted to wholesale showrooms and commercial office space. MMPI produces more than 100 trade shows, market events and conferences each year. MMPI manages The Merchandise Mart ; the Architects & Designers Building and 7 W New York in New York;
Vornado Realty Trust, owners of Merchandise Mart Properties, Inc. (MMPI), based in New York City, is a fully integrated equity real estate investment trust. Vornado’s common shares are listed on the New York Stock Exchange and are traded under the symbol VNO.
