Feb 13, 2008

New York International Gift Fair Offers New Opportunities

White Plains, NY – A successful market was reported by exhibitors across all divisions of the San Francisco International Gift Fair (SFIGF), January 26-29, 2008, at the Moscone Center. Fresh new designers invigorated resources at the Fair, where strong product introductions inspired buying and created an upbeat business mood. Trends continued to be led by green and vineyard-related product, bolstered by the market’s emphasis on wine, museum and eco-friendly categories.

“Healthy business was reported throughout the winter edition of the San Francisco International Gift Fair,” said Lynn White, show manager. “Manufacturers presented a strong selection of interesting new resources and quality buyers responded by placing orders,” she added. “Standout displays, a strong educational program and top-notch networking events set the scene for a sophisticated gift industry event with a uniquely San Francisco, Northern California feel.”

Buyer Janet Kelly, assistant director of merchandising, Chinaberry Inc., said “After walking every aisle of the show, we came back to the office with many sizable orders, most of which are from brand new vendors for products we’re very excited about – products we feel are going to do very well in both the Isabella and Chinaberry catalogues. Because of the San Francisco International Gift Fair, I think we may have some new Fall/Holiday 2008 bestsellers!” she added.

Highlights of the Gift Fair included special sessions devoted to museum store sales and the “green” movement; a regional Wine Tasting; an Opening Night Reception at 111 Minna Gallery in the heart of the SOMA district; and a “Night in the Castro” event with Under One Roof and The City Dish.

During the Fair, Best Visual Presentation Awards were presented to eight exhibitors, based on ambiance, creativity, lighting, display skills, signage, wall systems and floor covering: Despite Distractions, Wilmette, IL (The Museum Source); Dolly & Dimples, Cincinnati, OH (Just Kidstuff); Erin Smith Art, Decatur, GA (At Home); flip & tumble, Mountain View, CA (Details); L. Hutchcroft Design, Toledo, OR (Handmade); Lori Minden & Associates, San Mateo, CA (South Hall); Pottery Avenue by Pangaea, Bremerton, WA (South Hall); and XCIDIA, San Bruno, CA (Accent on Design).

In addition, buyers placing orders at the Fair qualified to win prizes, including several grand prize drawings. Buyer Rewards Grand Prize winner Ruth Merritt of Fleur de Lis Country Living, Modesto, CA was awarded $2,500 cash back for orders placed at the Fair.

The next edition of the SFIGF will run July 26-29, 2008, at The Moscone Center. The Fair will feature 17 divisions, including Accent on Design, At Home, Cash & Carry, Details, Distinctive Lines, FoodFocus, GardenStyle, General Gift, Handmade, The Jewelry Vaultsm, Just KidStuff, The Museum Source, Personal Accessories, PetStyle, Stationery & Trend, Village Arts and The Vintage Collection. The Fair runs in conjunction with the permanent showrooms of 888 Brannan (formerly The Giftcenter & Jewelrymart).

The SFIGF is managed and produced by GLM, a dmg world media business. For exhibitor information contact Aubin Wilson, show manager, by email, at aubin_wilson@glmshows.com, or by telephone, at 213-430-2310. For attendee information, contact GLM Customer Relations at (800) 272-SHOW (7469) or (603) 665-7524. Additional information and registration are available online at sfigf.com.