LAS VEGAS–The recent Las Vegas Market saw a surge in buyer attendance — both domestic and international — as well as almost 200 new companies exhibiting there for the first time, joining 1,300-plus exhibitors, according to International Market Center, which organizes the show.
In addition, the market’s Gift+Home show continued its trend of success with a 35 percent increase in attending gift buyers, 27 new and expanded permanent showrooms, and 75 new-to-market exhibitors for Gift+Home temporaries.
“Despite continued economic challenges, we are pleased to hold our strongest, best-attended summer Market in three years,” said Robert Maricich, chief executive officer of International Market Center, parent company of World Market Center Las Vegas. “Las Vegas Market continues to establish itself as a must-attend event for our industry, year after year, drawing new-to-market suppliers and buyers from around the globe.”
U.S. retail attendance for the market was up seven percent in total retail stores and up three percent in individual buyers and designers when compared to a year ago. The number of buying groups in attendance doubled, with a significant number of buyers attending Las Vegas Market for the first time, IMC said. International buyer attendance was up 23 percent over a year ago, with particular growth from Latin American countries such as Mexico, Colombia, Chile, Venezuela and Panama. In all, 95 countries were represented at Las Vegas Market and more than half of these international buyers and designers were first-time attendees.
Maricich added, “Our growth in new resources at the recent market, coupled with compelling events, plus the number of new products and specials we’re seeing throughout the showrooms has enhanced the value proposition for buyers to attend. Summer Market is a terrific vehicle for smart retailers to impact their fourth quarters with new product and exciting merchandising strategies.”