NEW YORK–7 W New York’s most recent Gift & Home Textiles Market Week was upbeat, show organizers said, and the building was “bustling with a steady flow of high-caliber buyers.” Building tenants were “widely optimistic” about the market, reporting healthy sales and happy clients.

“It was great to see such enthusiasm and such robust buying activity here at 7 W,” said Chris Collins, vice president and general manager of 7 W New York. “The trend of more serious buying that was so prevalent at the other markets throughout the country continued here in New York City. This is of course more productive for the entire industry and made for a very successful market week.”

Buyers from around the world made the trip to 7 W. According to 7 W Showroom Specialist Tania Perez, “We are seeing an increase in international buyers, including buyers from Central and South America.” One of her international clients, Ana Sandoval, a buyer from Almacenes Siman, told 7 W, “I was searching all over New York City for the right vendor and was so pleased to find SARO at 7 W. I am buying for 12 stores across Central America. I look forward to an ongoing business relationship with them.” Another international buyer, Karyn McCombe from Bellisimo Living in Halifax Nova Scotia, said, “I’ve been coming to the building for six years and I always get a lot of ideas and see the newest trends. It’s well worth the trip down from Canada.”

Several tenants said they were pleased with the latest market. Scott Harper of the Mary Harper Group, said, “We have looked at our business over the past few years and have noticed some positive shifts. We are finding more serious qualified buyers coming throughout the show – and placing more significant orders. This is exciting to see.”

Peter Trovato from Kurt S. Adler, Inc. saw market shifts that are positive. “We are increasingly seeing the next generation of store owners making a significant impact on the family business through online sales and promotions. As owners’ kids get involved, sales have multiplied at an unbelievable rate because of savvy social media outreach and internet marketing.”