According to market organizers, Atlanta Market is roaring back with enthusiastic buying by national retailers and designers with an uptick in out-of-region attendees, independent retailers, and buying groups. The market runs through July 19 at AmericasMart Atlanta.
“Atlanta Market is buzzing with optimism. Buyers and brands are energized by the ability to come together again to tap the unmatched discovery opportunities that can only be found at Atlanta Market,” says Bob Maricich, International Market Centers (IMC) CEO. “Recovery is accelerating with market attendance beating projections.”
The Market is tracking to return to its pre-pandemic size, scope, and influence driven by confidence from buyers from all 50 states and nearly 30 countries. Notable growth is in attendees from the Midwest and the Northeast. Additionally, attendance returned from key retail accounts such as Christmas Tree Shops, Cracker Barrel, Dillards, Kohls, Nordstrom, Ron John Surf Shops, Urban Outfitters, Von Maur, and Wegmans Food Market.
“Atlanta is back! Exhibitors in Atlanta appear to be at their best,” says Walter Lowry of TableArt Inc. in Los Angeles. “This is my first trade show since I walked Ambiente in February 2020. It is both heartening and stimulating to be back among exhibitors and colleagues, having conversations and discussions that I have missed.”
“Atlanta is our first market since the pandemic, and we are thrilled to be back,” comments Douglas Duncan of Cursive New York in New York City. It’s great to see familiar faces and touch, feel, and smell new products! There is plenty [of new product] to be had here in Atlanta and we are confident that we will fill out and have a great Q4.”
“As [my first day] day progressed, I eased back into the comfort of walking the show and passing by showrooms buzzing with buyers,” states Tara Riceberg of Tesoro and Tweak in Los Angeles. “When I descended the last escalator, I wanted to pinch myself. I had just had the most spectacular day! It was replete with desirable objects, wonderful conversations, hugs from old friends, and foundations for new relationships. It was simply everything I hope a show would be!”
Atlanta Market exhibitors confirm that buyers are not just at market for the experience – they are placing serious orders.
“We are very pleased to see so many of our long-standing customers in person after 18 months. Business is brisk and the orders firm,” says Nick Geimer, Managing Director of Ngala Trading, which opened a new showroom this market.
Atlanta Market continues through Monday, July 19 (temporary exhibits Sunday, July 18) with some 8,000+ lines. New and notable for Summer 2021 are nearly 60 new, expanded, and relocated brands opening among the market’s 1,000+ gift and home décor showrooms. The Market’s temporary exhibits have expanded significantly since Winter 2021 market with more brands and renewed partnerships with three leading industry organizations –the Accessories Council, Museum Store Association, and Virginia’s Finest®.
Atlanta Market’s showrooms are open through Monday, July 19, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. Temporaries are open Wednesday, July 14 – Saturday, July 17, 9 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. and Sunday, July 18, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. ANTIQUES closes on Saturday, July 17 at 2 p.m. Registration is available online at AtlantaMarket.com/Attend/Registration.
