WHITE PLAINS, NY, May 11, 2012… When At Home opens at the summer 2012 New York International Gift Fair® (NYIGF®), buyers will find leading brands as well as a significant influx of new participants – both brand-new and those returning after a hiatus from the New York Market. At Home will present 550 suppliers of hard lines and soft goods, along with a series of home-focused educational programming in partnership with leading industry associations, August 18-22, 2012, at New York City’s Jacob K. Javits Convention Center and Passenger Ship Terminal Pier 94.

“This will be the fifth consecutive market that NYIGF’s At Home is sold out, giving buyers access to a comprehensive collection – from hard lines to soft goods and from traditional to contemporary – of home products,” said Christian Falkenberg, NYIGF director and GLM vice president. “At Home’s 550 suppliers, in combination with the breadth and depth of NYIGF’s 2,800 exhibitors, make the New York Market one of the nation’s largest and most diverse resources for design-driven home products.

At Home at Pier 94 opens on Saturday, August 18, with 350 exhibitors presenting a comprehensive, sophisticated collection of furniture, floor coverings, home textiles, wall art, lighting, decorative accessories and more. Newcomers to the summer 2012 market include: A & B Home (home furnishings/decorative accessories); Abanja (textiles/decorative accessories); Arclite; Burrow & Hive (textiles/home accessories); Designs Contempo; Floating Circus ; Flock Design House (furniture/decorative accessories); International Shades (lamp shades); Lili Alesandra (home textiles); Meiko Home (furnishings from Japan); Nathan Direct (home furnishings/decorative accessories); Oggetti (decorative accessories/tabletop); Picture Galleries; Square Feathers (pillows and decorative accessories); Style de Vie; Spruce Wholesale (home and garden accessories); and TrueBee Designs (ottomans). At Home also welcomes a number of home goods suppliers relocating to Pier 94 from other NYIGF divisions: Antiochia USA (textiles); Ben’s Garden (decorative accessories); Cloud 9 Design (pillows); fait by The Artists' Lab (decorative accessories); Hillary Thomas Designs (finials); and Sugarboo Designs (wall décor).

In addition to these first-time participants, At Home at Pier 94 welcomes the return of several suppliers returning to the summer 2012 NYIGF, after a hiatus from the New York Market. This includes: Amity Home (home textiles); B. Chic; Beeline Home by Bunny Williams (home furnishings and décor); D. Bryant Archie (home textiles); Hannibal Enterprises (furniture/decorative accessories); Marjorie Bloom Collection (tabletop, bath, and decorative accessories); Pearl Dragon Collections (tabletop, home décor and accent pieces); Tempaper (wall paper); and Still Life (leaves and botanicals preserved in metal).

A number of current At Home exhibitors are planning expansions of their exhibit space for the summer 2012 NYIGF. Expansions at Pier 94 include: Chandi (lighting); Environment Furniture (sustainable furnishings); The Homeport Collection (decorative accessories); Hudson Valley Art (wall art); Made Goods (mirrors/decorative accessories); Mastour Galleries (rugs); Matahari (decorative accessories); Middle Kingdom (porcelain vessels, antiques, silk); NBR Home (pillows); Pheromone by Christopher Marley (wall art); Prints Charming Soho (accent pillows); Roost (modern home furnishings); and Royola Pacific.

At Home featuring Home Textiles, located at the Javits Center, showcases some 200 mid- to high-end home textiles resources including bed and bath fashions, table linens, kitchen textiles, towels, decorative accessories, area rugs, window treatments and decorative fabrics. It is one of four locations – the Javits Center, Pier 94, 7 West 34th Street and 230 Fifth Avenue – which comprise Home Textiles Market Week® in New York.

Newcomers to At Home featuring Home Textiles include Cozy Earth (bamboo textiles); Echelon Home (bedding); HedgeHouse (throw beds, cushions); Pyar & Co. (pillows); Simple Syrup Design House (pillows and wall art); The Amazing Flameless Candle (flameless candles); and Wabisabi Green:Modern Home Decor Eco Style (pillows, table linens).

In addition to these first-time participants, At Home featuring Home Textiles also welcomes Auggie Home Collection (bedding/home accessories) and Black Pepper Dessin (pillows) – both relocating into At Home featuring Home Textiles from other NYIGF divisions and four companies returning after a hiatus from the New York Market: Anali (bedding, bath accessories); Hamburg House (bedding, towels); Sinobrite (sheets); and Thro LTD (pillows).

Several exhibitors in At Home featuring Home Textiles also are expanding their exhibit space presence for the summer 2012 NYIGF. This includes Alicia Adams Alpaca (alpaca throws and accessories); Home Treasures (bedding, bath accessories); Marigot (loungewear); and Pehuen (throws, pillows).

During market week, NYIGF will also offer several events and seminars for home buyers and suppliers, as well as installation of “Open House,” a curated display showcasing home products – from materials and color to commerce and branding – reflective of key 2012-13 trend areas (American Vintage; The French Moderne Way; The Marrakesh Express; Linen Revival; and Graphic Modern). Open House is presented by NYIGF, Sandow Media (Home Textiles Today and Home Accents Today) Pantone and One Kings Lane. As an added benefit, select products from the display will be sold on One Kings Lane for three-days during NYIGF, with proceeds benefitting Gift For Life, the home, gift and stationery industries’ sole charity partner.

On Saturday, August 18, from 5:00 to 6:00PM, NYIGF will host an At Home welcome reception on Pier 94 to celebrate the market’s opening day. During this event, ASID’s NY Metro Chapter will bestow its “Best of the Best NYIGF Summer 2012 Awards” to select At Home exhibitors in seven categories – Imaginative Product Presentation; Innovative Product Design; Social Responsibility / Ecological Sensitivity; Lighting; Accessories; Textiles; and Wall Art.

On Saturday, August 18, the ART (Accessories Resource Team) will facilitate “Retailer Roundtables – Gather. Share. Network at NYIGF.” These open forum discussions, addressing social media, in-store events, store operations, retail competition, open to buy budgeting, credit card policies and more, will be held from 9:30AM to 11:00AM, in the Pier 94 Café.

On Sunday, August 19, from 8:30AM to 9:30AM, “Open House – What’s Hot in Home Design?” will explore color and ecommerce trends influencing home products. Warren Shoulberg of Home Textiles Today and Gifts & Decorative Accessories, will lead the panel discussion including Susan Feldman, One Kings Lane co-founder and chief merchandising officer, and Laurie Pressman, Pantone Vice President Fashion, Home + Interiors.

New York’s Chapter of the International Furnishings & Design Association (IFDA) will sponsor “Color Trends and Practical Applications,” on August 20, from 9:00 to 10:30AM. As part of this exploration of color theory and its practical applications, Doty Horn of Color Voyant, a visionary color marketing company servicing businesses through color positioning with an international perspective, will preview color trends for 2013-14; and Lisa White, creative director of WGSN, the leading online trend-analysis and research service providing creative and business intelligence for the apparel, style, design and retail industries, will present their seasonal Macro Trends which predict interior and fashion translations of these color directions.

In a first-ever partnership with NYIGF, the Fashion Group International will host “DOUBLE DOSSIER: Fashion Designers on Home. Home Design Redefined”, on Tuesday, August 21, from 9:00AM to 10:00AM. Famed designer, Ralph Rucci of Chado Ralph Rucci, and others will address lifestyle trends between the worlds of fashion apparel and home design – and the ways in which designers and manufacturers are influencing the way we live and dress.

The Home Textiles Market Week “Best New Product Awards” also returns this summer to spotlight design innovation in Bed, Bath, Dining and Home Accessories. Winners, selected by a panel of trade and consumer editors, will be announced on Tuesday, August 21.

At Home runs Saturday, August 18, through Tuesday, August 21, at Pier 94; and At Home featuring Home Textiles runs Sunday, August 19, through Wednesday, August 22, at the Javits Center. At Home is one of 10 divisions presented semi-annually at the NYIGF.

NYIGF is the nation’s premier gift, home and lifestyle marketplace, with 2,800+ exhibiting companies featuring an extraordinary breadth and depth of design-driven home fashion products and complementary giftware. The summer market takes place Saturday, August 18, through Wednesday, August 22, at New York City’s Jacob K. Javits Convention Center and Passenger Ship Terminal Piers 92 and 94. Some 35,000 attendees from all 50 states and more than 80 countries worldwide are expected. Information and registration is available online at www.nyigf.com.

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WHITE PLAINS, NY, May 9, 2012... Online registration for the summer 2012 New York International Gift Fair® (NYIGF®) is now open, at www.nyigf.com. NYIGF runs Saturday, August 18, through Wednesday, August 22, 2012, at New York City’s Jacob K. Javits Convention Center and Passenger Ship Terminal Piers 92 and 94.

“Through the website NYIGF participants can register for the show, as well as a full range of educational seminars and special events,” said Christian Falkenberg, NYIGF director and GLM vice president. “The online system is rich with functionality, and it also enables attendees to begin product sourcing and trip planning in advance of the Fair.”

Advance registration, which is free for qualified retailers and $150 for suppliers to the trade, is available online through 11:59PM (ET) on Tuesday, August 14. Upon completion of online registration, participants will receive a barcode, which is redeemable for a badge at any of NYIGF’s 70 self-registration terminals located onsite at the Javits Center and Piers 92 and 94.

After the August 14 advance registration deadline, attendees must register onsite at NYIGF and pay onsite registration fees ($50 for first-time retailers, $25 for returning retailers and $150 for suppliers to the trade).

Once registered for the show, market participants can use the website to register for educational seminars and “Only In New York” special events, including A Night on Broadway, featuring specially-priced tickets to the Monday, August 20, performance of GHOST. Details, and a complete schedule of these value-added activities, are available online at www.nyigf.com/programs.

Additional NYIGF.com features include a keyword search tool which returns detailed product and vendor information and allows web-users to create and save “walking lists” for use onsite during the Fair. NYIGF’s Online Catalog Gallery also offers access to detailed information for thousands of products from exhibiting companies.

A free NYIGF mobile app, is also available for advance planning and onsite navigation. Using the application, market-goers can find exhibitors and products – with instant results including company names, booth numbers, product details and contact information – as well as seminar, event and shuttle bus schedules and an NYIGF floor plan. The Wayfinder app is available by searching NYIGF through iTunes, the Android Market, and BlackBerry App World, or at http://search.nyigf.com/mobile.aspx.

NYIGF is the nation’s premier gift, home and lifestyle marketplace, with 2,800+ exhibiting companies featuring an extraordinary breadth and depth of design-driven home fashion products and complementary giftware. Some 35,000 attendees from all 50 states and more than 80 countries worldwide are expected. Information and registration is available online at www.nyigf.com.

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WHITE PLAINS, NY, May 4, 2012… An influx of newly-accepted craft artisans and global suppliers of artisanal products will join the 475 exhibitors in the Handmade® division at the summer 2012 New York International Gift Fair® (NYIGF®). Other Handmade highlights include relocation of Handmade Global Design; introduction of a new Fair Trade “neighborhood”; presentation of eight educational sessions hosted by CRAFT (Craft Retailers & Artisans For Tomorrow); and naming of the second annual Carol Sedestrom Ross scholarship recipient.

“As the interest in artisanal craft grows, we’re making it easier for buyers to source and shop for handmade products,” said Christian Falkenberg, NYIGF director and GLM vice president. “We’re also pleased to continue our partnership with CRAFT to bring business-building education for craft retailers to NYIGF.”

NYIGF’s Handmade division is categorized by process and provenance into two distinct sections – Handmade Global Design and Handmade Designer Maker. This summer, Handmade Global Design relocates to its new home in the Javits Center’s Level 4 Galleria and welcomes 10 new exhibitors to its ranks of 135 resources with a focus on good design, traditional craftsmanship, and community building.

First-time Handmade Global Design exhibitors include: Bedouin Weaving: (hand woven carpets and cushion covers); EcoLoving: (hats, scarves and jewelry); Green Jute: (handbags, tote bags, wraps and skirts); Malia Designs: (handbags and accessories); The Egyptian Heritage Co: (men’s and women’s scarves); The Mayan Store: (pillows and cushions); Shupaca (alpaca clothing and accessories); and The Red Sari (hand felted scarves).

Additionally, Handmade Global Design will introduce a new “neighborhood” featuring nearly 20 exhibitors who are members of the Fair Trade Federation. These companies and their products have passed rigorous Fair Trade Federation vetting to ensure that they support artisans in developing countries who are trying to make better lives for themselves and their families through their craft.

Participants in this new Fair Trade “neighborhood” are: Acacia Creations; Aid through Trade; Belart; Bridge for Africa; Cheppu Himal; DZI; Global Goods Partners; Global Mamas; Handmade Expressions; Jamtown World Music; Lucuma Designs; Mandos de Madres; One World Projects; Seastea; Sevya; Sustainable Threads; Tokoloshe; and WorldFinds. Several other Fair Trade Federation members also exhibit in Handmade Global Design, as well as other NYIGF divisions.

Handmade Designer Maker will showcase 350 limited-production makers across all categories and media resources from around the world. From more than 145 applicants, the division will welcome approximately 30 artisans to their first NYIGF: Anna Ruth Henriques (Ise Jewelry LLC) (jewelry); Ashka Dymel Jewelry (jewelry); C&H Glassworks (decorative & functional glass); Catherine Grisez Jewelry (jewelry); Cedar Mountain (wall hangings); dahlia kanner studio (jewelry); Forgotten Judaica (Judaica product); frazier & wing (paper mobiles); garbella (apparel & clocks); Heather Palmer Glass (decorative & functional glass); Julie Dye Craft (paper, home & accessory product); Justin Rothshank (decorative & functional glass); Kolman Artisan Glass (framed glass wall hangings); Little Delaware Pottery (functional pottery); miss millie (handbags); MONIKA KNUTSSON LLC JEWELRY (jewelry); Nell & Mary (pillows); Patch Design Studio (pillows, towels and baby products); Pozie Poems (poetry/inspirational hanging signs); Sarah Swell Jewelry (jewelry); SCHOOLYARD (towels, stationery, baby clothes, sleepware); Serenity Ceramics (decorative & functional ceramics); SOMERS JEWELRY (jewelry); Stiles & Stubborn (tabletop, art prints & jewelry); Susan Riedweg Designs (handbags); Tigerlillyshop (jewelry); To Boldly Fold (journals & paper goods); Two Tone Studios LLC (decorative & functional glass); and Ullsmycken (felted scarves).

In recognition of creativity, craftsmanship and unique artisanry, one emerging artisan – Melissa Chao of To Boldly Fold – will receive the second annual Carol Sedestrom Ross “Maker-to-Market” scholarship awarded by NYIGF. The award – honoring the memory of Ross, a pivotal figure in both the American Craft movement and in GLM’s development of wholesale craft markets – will be presented annually to the most promising newcomer to NYIGF’s Handmade® division. Chao, based in Watertown, MA, makes leather bound journals.

Beyond exhibits, NYIGF will offer retailers numerous craft-focused educational seminars on timely business topics. Through continued partnership with CRAFT (Craft Retailers & Artists For Tomorrow), six “Power Hour” sessions will be presented at NYIGF. Subjects will include website essentials, Facebook and email marketing, mobile marketing, publicity and “StorySelling.” On Saturday, August 18, CRAFT also will offer two seminars in cooperation with Constant Contact, addressing digital marketing for events and social media marketing. Details and registration is available online at www.nyigf.com/programs.

GLM will extend the artisanal resources presented in connection with NYIGF, with the launch of Artisan Resource™, a new semi-annual show offering U.S.-based volume import retailers and wholesalers the opportunity to meet with international artisanal producers. Artisan Resource runs August 19-21, 2012, at the Passenger Ship Terminal’s Pier 92. Information and registration is available online at www.artisanresourceny.com.

For more than 25 years, Handmade has offered buyers an extensive selection of handcrafted items across such categories as tabletop, ceramics, textiles, home décor, jewelry and apparel. NYIGF is the nation’s premier gift, home and lifestyle marketplace, with 2,800+ exhibiting companies featuring an extraordinary breadth and depth of design-driven home fashion products and complementary giftware.

Handmade, one of ten NYIGF divisions, runs Saturday, August 18, through Tuesday, August 21, 2012, at New York City’s Jacob K. Javits Convention Center. Some 35,000 attendees from all 50 states and more than 80 countries worldwide are expected. Information and registration is available online at www.nyigf.com.

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WHITE PLAINS, NY, April 27, 2012... Five key home design trends, ranging from nostalgic American motifs to modern print statements, will be showcased in a new “Open House” exhibit premiering at the summer 2012 New York International Gift Fair® (NYIGF®). These key themes also will be explored in a related seminar, presented by Sandow Media, Pantone and One Kings Lane, during the NYIGF.

“Open House is a collaboration of cross-industry trend-watchers to identify and showcase current – and coming – home trends,” said Christian Falkenberg, NYIGF director and GLM vice president. “Both the display and the seminar will offer NYIGF participants an invaluable preview of leading home products themes.”

The five trends, their inspirations and expressions, as identified by editors from Sandow Media’s Home Accents Today and Home Textiles Today, are:

American Vintage
Heavy on nostalgia, this look merges classic American motifs like denim, patchwork, numbers and flags as well as distressed finishes, salvaged materials and a hint of schoolroom style. Recycled materials are often used. This look is a continuation from the current industrial vintage trend, but with a fun, colorful approach.

The French Moderne Way
This look brings to life elegant French design. Minimalist and streamlined, it blends rich materials like shagreen and ebony with exotic Egyptian and Asian elements. The emergence of Baroque themes – especially human imagery found in tapestries and paintings of the era – are a companion look.

The Marrakesh Express
Ethnic looks from the entire North African region are merging and making an appearance. The result is flat weaves and aged color stories set against distressed finishes and richly-aged patina metal surfaces.

Linen Revival
Linen and linen-like fabrications are putting an emphasis on a “dry” hand. These include: rough linens that look hand-loomed; two-color tweeds; and animal patterns such as zebra and alligator wovens. Skins remain a design perennial, but this look introduces a seasonal twist.

Graphic Modern
This look is grounded by strong print statements often rendered in just one or two colors. Designs have “pop,” expressed through polka dots, “softened” geometrics which polish down hard edges, and florals on a grand scale.

All NYIGF exhibitors are invited to submit products for display in these categories. One Kings Lane’s merchandising team will review submissions, make selections and design and merchandise the display at NYIGF. The exhibit will be open during all NYIGF show hours, August 18-22, 2012, at New York City’s Jacob K. Javits Center.

In connection with the display, a seminar titled “Open House – What’s Hot in Home Design?” will explore trends influencing home products – from materials and color to commerce and branding. Warren Shoulberg of Sandow Media will moderate the panel discussion, including Susan Feldman, co-founder of One Kings Lane, and Laurie Pressman, Pantone Vice President Fashion, Home + Interiors. The session is scheduled for Sunday, August 19, from 8:30am – 9:30am, New York City’s Jacob K. Javits Convention Center. Tickets cost $20 advance/$25 onsite, and registration is available online at www.nyigf.com/programs.

As an extension of these onsite activities, select products from the “Open House” display will be sold in a One Kings Lane online flash sale during NYIGF, with proceeds benefitting Gift For Life, the home, gift and stationery industries’ sole charity partner. The 72-hour sale will begin on Sunday, August 19, on www.onekingslane.com.

NYIGF is the nation’s premier gift, home and lifestyle marketplace, with 2,800+ exhibiting companies featuring an extraordinary breadth and depth of design-driven home fashion products and complementary giftware. The summer market takes place Saturday, August 18 – Wednesday, August 22, at New York City’s Jacob K. Javits Convention Center and Passenger Ship Terminal Piers 92 and 94. Some 35,000 attendees from all 50 states and more than 80 countries worldwide are expected. Information and registration is available online at www.nyigf.com.

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WHITE PLAINS, NY, April 20, 2012… Design-focused products across the gourmet housewares spectrum – from innovative silicone utensils to contemporary metal tea service pieces – will be showcased at the 2nd annual edition of the Gourmet Housewares Show® at the New York International Gift Fair® (NYIGF®), August 19-22, 2012, at New York City’s Jacob K. Javits Convention Center.

“With great demand for exhibit space from design-driven gourmet housewares suppliers and early commitments from leading international brands, the August 2012 edition is nearly sold out,” said Marc Delman, national sales manager of the Gourmet Housewares Show. “The Gourmet Housewares Show’s positioning – as a ‘show-within-as-show’ at NYIGF, gives exhibitors access to a core group of leading housewares retailers, as well as thousands of specialty store seeking add-on sales with upscale products for cooking, dining and kitchen preparation.”

The 2012 edition of the Gourmet Housewares Show at NYIGF has been expanded to feature 175 suppliers of high-end resources in cookware, bakeware, kitchen gadgets, kitchen textiles, bar and wine accessories, small electrics, specialty food, cookbooks, storage/containers and picnic/barbecue accessories.

More than half of the suppliers who participated in the inaugural Gourmet Housewares Show at NYIGF in 2011 will return for the 2nd annual edition. Notable among these are: Aladdin (housewares accessories); Bella Cucina (gourmet foods and ceramics); Block House (Arc and Mikasa glassware); DKB (gadgets and accessories featuring Jamie Oliver and Zyliss); French Farm (gourmet foods); Enrico Products (woodenware and cutting boards); Guzzini (Italian housewares); Harold Imports (housewares distributor); Jason Products (placemats); JK Adams (cutting boards); Joseph Joseph (gadgets); Mastrad (gadgets and accessories); Menus and Music (recipes and music); Nespresso (gourmet coffee brewing); Oggi (housewares, pantry wares); Paper Product Designs (paper goods and ceramics); Ravi (wine accessories); Room Copenhagen (Pantone and LEGO licenses); Sagaform (housewares and tabletop accessories); Scan Trends (Scandinavian housewares); and TAG (tabletop and housewares).

Several charter exhibitors also are returning to the Show with larger exhibit spaces. This includes: Alexandra Von Furstenberg (High design serveware and furniture); Core Home (bamboo serveware, acrylics and assorted home products); Corkcicle (wine accessories); Picnic Time (picnic accessories); and Pillivuyt USA (white ware, serveware).

The 2012 edition also welcomes first-time participation by key suppliers, including Iiittala (Finnish home accessories); Robert Welch Design (award-winning cutlery); and Vac U Vin (gadgets and accessories). In addition, several leading brands which have been absent from the New York Market will return in August as first-time Gourmet Housewares Show exhibitors: Finum (teas); Gingko (flatware and cutlery); Gourmac (accessories and gadgets); Island Bamboo (bamboo); Nick Munro (contemporary alternative metals); Mepra (Italian flatware and serveware); and Tannex (housewares and tabletop).

The 2nd annual Gourmet Housewares Show Best New Products Display will spotlight new product introductions in three categories; dining, cooking and kitchen preparation. A panel of editors will review all products and select superlative products in each category, and will designate one product as “Best of Show” based on innovative design; creative use of materials/construction; and use of new materials/technology. Winners will be announced on Tuesday, August 21.

Since its inception in 1975, the Gourmet Housewares Show has provided a professional marketplace for the gourmet products and upscale housewares industries, offering a comprehensive mix of innovative new products, leading resources, and industry trends, and the only industry event to focus exclusively on high-end cookware, cutlery, bakeware, gadgets, tabletop, kitchen textiles and specialty food.

The Gourmet Housewares Show at NYIGF runs Sunday, August 19, through Wednesday, August 22, 2012, at New York City’s Jacob K. Javits Convention Center. Show hours are 9am – 6pm daily, except on the final day, when the Show closes at 2pm. Information is available online at www.thegourmetshow.com.

NYIGF is the nation’s premier gift, home and lifestyle marketplace, with 2,800+ exhibiting companies featuring an extraordinary breadth and depth of design-driven home fashion products and complementary giftware. Some 35,000 attendees from all 50 states and more than 85 countries worldwide are expected. Information and registration is available online at www.nyigf.com.

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WHITE PLAINS, NY, April 13, 2012... GHOST, the brand new Broadway musical adapted from the hit film, will be the featured “Night on Broadway” performance during the summer 2012 edition of the New York International Gift Fair® (NYIGF®). Tickets, for the Monday, August 20, performance, which are normally priced at $137, are specially-priced for NYIGF participants at $89 each. Tickets will be available for sale online at www.nyigf.com/programs, after April 15.

“The premiere of GHOST is receiving rave reviews, and we’re excited to get these tickets so early in its Broadway run,” said Christian Falkenberg, NYIGF director and GLM vice president. “This NYIG's 'Night on Broadway' is a quintessential New York City experience which summer market-goers should not miss.”

Based on the love story from the 1990 motion picture, GHOST stages the fantasy of Sam and Molly, a young couple whose connection takes a shocking turn after Sam’s untimely death. Trapped between two worlds as a ghost, Sam refuses to leave Molly when he learns she is in grave danger. Desperate to communicate with her, he turns to a storefront psychic, Oda Mae, who helps him protect Molly and avenge his death.

GHOST is adapted by its Academy Award®-winning screenwriter Bruce Joel Rubin, and directed by Tony Award® winner Matthew Warchus. The original score is by multiple Grammy® Award winners Dave Stewart and Glen Ballard, and includes the emblematic “Unchained Melody” by The Righteous Brothers.

GHOST is playing at New York City’s Lunt-Fontanne Theatre at 205 West 46th Street. More details are available online at http://www.ghostonbroadway.com.

NYIGF is the nation’s premier gift, home and lifestyle marketplace, with 2,800+ exhibiting companies featuring an extraordinary breadth and depth of design-driven home fashion products and complementary giftware. Some 35,000 attendees from all 50 states and more than 80 countries worldwide are expected.

The summer market takes place Saturday, August 18, through Wednesday, August 22, at New York City’s Jacob K. Javits Convention Center and Passenger Ship Terminal Piers 92 and 94. Information and registration is available online at www.nyigf.com.

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WHITE PLAINS, NY, April 9, 2012… A series of free educational programs and special events will be among highlights of the summer 2012 debut of Artisan Resource™ at the New York International Gift Fair® (NYIGF®). Value-added activities, which include seminars for both exhibitors and attendees and onsite receptions, will be offered over four full days – Saturday, August 18, through Tuesday, August 21 – at New York City’s Passenger Ship Terminal Pier 92. (NOTE: A full seminar and event schedule follows and is available online at www.artisanresourceny.com.)

Artisan Resource is a first-of-its kind show offering U.S.-based volume importers, direct import retailers and wholesalers the opportunity to meet with international artisanal producers. It will run concurrently with NYIGF, offering a production-sourcing venue for overseas artisan enterprises to showcase their products and production capabilities – at export terms – from their country of origin.

“Artisan Resource programming will add real value for both exhibitors and attendees,” said Christian Falkenberg, NYIGF director and GLM vice president. “Exhibitor sessions will help to orient and prepare international artisans for successful business activities in the United States, and attendee sessions will provide an essential overview of volume importing basics.”

Two exhibitor education sessions will be presented on Saturday, August 18, the day before the market officially opens, with topics including U.S. tradeshow etiquette and the importance of a product’s “backstory”. During the show, additional sessions on U.S. design trends, U.S. product development and global handmade product marketing also will be offered for exhibitors.

On each morning of the three-day tradeshow, an “Importing 101” primer will be presented at Pier 92 for Artisan Resource attendees. Carol MacNulty, a specialist in handmade and artisanal production and handcraft importing, will address the logistics, vocabulary and the roles and responsibilities of both exporter and importer. Participants will learn how to build international business relationships, and to assess the risks and opportunities inherent in the international marketplace. The session is free, and pre-registration is required.

Two evening receptions will be hosted on the Artisan Resource exhibit floor. On Sunday, August 19, NYIGF will host a reception for all exhibitors and attendees. The preview reception on Saturday, August 18, is open by invitation-only.

Artisan Resource participants also may register for NYIGF’s extensive seminar series, which addresses color and design trends, social media, sustainability and retail strategies, as well as social events such as NYIGF’s popular “Night on Broadway,” which features specially-priced tickets to the Monday, August 20, performance of GHOST. Information and registration is available online at www.nyigf.com/programs.

Artisan Resource, which will be managed by GLM and organized with the assistance of ByHand Consulting, will feature 50 exhibitors in the inaugural show. For exhibitor information, contact Allison Rober, sales manager, at GLM, by phone (914-421-3212) or email arober@glmshows.com. Attendee information is available by calling 1-800-272-SHOW (7469) or (212) 204-1060. Additional information and registration is available online at www.artisanresourceny.com.

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ARTISAN RESOURCE™
Summer 2012
SEMINAR & EVENT SCHEDULE

Information and registration is available online at www.artisanresourceny.com, or by calling GLM’s Customer Service Department at 1-800-272-SHOW (7469), or (212) 204-1060.

SEMINARS

Saturday, August 18
NYIGF Show Etiquette & U.S. Buyer Expectations
9:00AM – 10:00AM, Pier 92
Participants will learn practical “do’s” and “don’ts” for U.S. tradeshows, and the importance of good communication skills in developing successful relationships. Topics include show etiquette and anticipating customer service needs. The session will be moderated by Karen Gibbs and Colvin English of By Hand Consulting. Free. Mandatory for all Artisan Resource exhibitors.

Handmade Trend – The Importance of Your Story
10:30AM – 11:30AM, Pier 92
Participants will learn the importance of telling the story of the origin of their products, profiling producers, and providing information about the context of the technique and material. Examples will be presented of promotional campaigns which emphasize materials, traditions and cultures. The session will be moderated by Karen Gibbs and Colvin English of By Hand consulting. Free for Artisan Resource exhibitors.

Sunday, August 19
Strategic Planning in the Global Marketplace for Handmade Products
8:00AM – 9:00AM, Javits Center
Karen Gibbs and Colvin English from By Hand Consulting lead an exploration of major shifts within the global handmade market distribution chain, and a discussion of ways to capitalize on these changes to expand market share and sales. Free, with pre-registration required

“Importing 101”
9:00AM – 10:00AM, Pier 92
This overview describes the basic components of volume importing handmade goods from overseas vendors. Topics include logistics, vocabulary and the roles and responsibilities of both exporter and importer. Participants will learn how to build international business relationships, and to assess the risks and opportunities inherent in the international marketplace. Presenter Carol MacNulty has specialized in handmade and artisanal products for more than 25 years, working directly with both overseas artisans and domestic entrepreneurs to develop and strengthen business skills and to bring the richness of handmade goods into the U.S. market. Free. Pre-registration required

Monday, August 20
Product Development – Case Studies of Working with an International Designer
8:00AM – 9:00AM, Pier 92
This discussion will focus on the importance of product innovation and development in the U.S., and offer insight into different ways to work with international designers. Leading U.S. product designers will present case studies on product development programs working with artisan groups worldwide. The session will be moderated by Karen Gibbs and Colvin English of By Hand Consulting. Free for Artisan Resource exhibitors.

“Importing 101”
9:00AM – 10:00AM, Pier 92
This overview describes the basic components of volume importing handmade goods from overseas vendors. Topics include logistics, vocabulary and the roles and responsibilities of both exporter and importer. Participants will learn how to build international business relationships, and to assess the risks and opportunities inherent in the international marketplace. Presenter Carol MacNulty has specialized in handmade and artisanal products for more than 25 years, working directly with both overseas artisans and domestic entrepreneurs to develop and strengthen business skills and to bring the richness of handmade goods into the U.S. market. Free. Pre-registration required

Tuesday, August 21
2013 Design Trends in the U.S. Gift & Home Décor Market
8:00AM – 9:00AM, Pier 92
Leading market experts will provide an overview of current trends in color, materials, motifs and product categories, which are influencing the U.S. gift, home décor and fashion accessories markets. Participants will learn how to adapt their global and traditional designs to meet current market demands. The session will be moderated by Karen Gibbs and Colvin English of By Hand Consulting. Free for Artisan Resource exhibitors.

“Importing 101”
9:00AM – 10:00AM, Pier 92
This overview describes the basic components of volume importing handmade goods from overseas vendors. Topics include logistics, vocabulary and the roles and responsibilities of both exporter and importer. Participants will learn how to build international business relationships, and to assess the risks and opportunities inherent in the international marketplace. Presenter Carol MacNulty has specialized in handmade and artisanal products for more than 25 years, working directly with both overseas artisans and domestic entrepreneurs to develop and strengthen business skills and to bring the richness of handmade goods into the U.S. market. Free. Pre-registration required

EVENTS

Saturday, August 18
Artisan Resource Preview Reception
4:00PM – 7:00PM, Pier 92
NYIGF exhibitors are invited to an exclusive preview of GLM’s new Artisan Resource event, a first-of-its-kind artisan production-sourcing event for U.S.-based importers, direct import retailers and wholesalers. NYIGF exhibitors can enjoy a glass of wine while viewing juried overseas artisan enterprises offering handmade production resources and products, at export terms from each country of origin. By invitation only.

Sunday, August 19
Artisan Resource Welcome Reception
5:00PM – 6:00PM, Pier 92
Artisan Resource participants are invited to this opening day welcome reception, hosted by GLM. NYIGF exhibitors can enjoy a glass of wine while viewing juried overseas artisan enterprises offering handmade production resources and products, at export terms from each country of origin. Free for all attendees.
 

WHITE PLAINS, NY, April 6, 2012... 100 Days of Design, a community-based blog published by the New York International Gift Fair® (NYIGF®), will return for the summer 2012 edition, with a modified format highlighting the design-driven products at NYIGF, as well New York City attractions and entertainment.

The blog, which is accessible at www.100DaysofDesign.com, will be published twice weekly beginning on May 1, and will run through the summer NYIGF, August 18-22, 2012, at New York City’s Jacob K. Javits Convention Center and Passenger Ship Terminal Piers.

“When the 100 Days of Design blog launched last October, it featured a wide variety of perspectives on design. For summer 2012, it is expanding to include service-oriented content connected with NYIGF and New York City” said Christian Falkenberg, NYIGF director and GLM vice president. “The 100 Days of Design blog nicely complements NYIGF’s design-driven and fashion-forward exhibits, and related education and events planned for the summer 2012 market.”

Each week leading up to NYIGF, the blog will spotlight different product categories – such as accessories, gourmet, craft, home furnishings and stationery – and market trends – including sustainability, “made in the USA” and more. One weekly post will feature product introductions, as well as related New York City attractions such as exhibitions and attractions, hot restaurants, intriguing shops and other distinctive experiences, which are relevant to the theme. A second weekly post will feature perspectives and predictions connected with the theme from invited guest authors. Notable contributors during the winter 2012 100 Days of Design included Karim Rashid, Jaime Salm of MIO, Les Mandelbaum of UMBRA and Alan Heller of Heller, Inc.

At the conclusion of the summer 2012 NYIGF, 100 Days of Design will feature a collection of NYIGF reports from notable bloggers, trend-watchers and design influencers. It will recap market highlights and share notable NYIGF posts from the blogosphere.

NYIGF is the nation’s premier gift, home and lifestyle marketplace, with 2,800+ exhibiting companies featuring an extraordinary breadth and depth of design-driven home fashion products and complementary giftware. The summer market takes place Saturday, August 18, through Wednesday, August 22, at New York City’s Jacob K. Javits Convention Center and Passenger Ship Terminal Piers. Some 35,000 attendees from all 50 states and more than 80 countries worldwide are expected. Information and registration is available online at www.nyigf.com.

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WHITE PLAINS, NY, March 30, 2012... The third phase of a major, multi-year strategic reorganization of the New York International Gift Fair® (NYIGF®) will begin at the summer 2012 market, with repositioning of three product divisions – Baby & Child, Handmade® Global Design and New York’s Newest – to new locations within the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, the 2nd annual presentation of the Gourmet Housewares Show at NYIGF, and the introduction of Artisan Resource™, a new complementary tradeshow which will run concurrently with NYIGF.

“This series of divisional relocations is strategic and purposeful and will strengthen category adjacencies across NYIGF,” said Christian Falkenberg, NYIGF manager and GLM vice president. “The ultimate goal is creation of four distinct market collections which offer buyers a navigable and efficient shopping experience.”

“Focus Forward 2013,” a blueprint for NYIGF’s evolution to be the defining marketplace for fashion-forward and design-driven home, gift and lifestyle resources, began in summer 2010. At its completion, in summer 2013, NYIGF will be reorganized into four comprehensive market collections – NYIGF Home, NYIGF Lifestyle, NYIGF Handmade and NYIGF New. The overall plan incorporates introduction of new divisions and floor plan changes, several of which are necessitated by ongoing construction and renovation at the Javits Center.

This August, Handmade Global Design, a collection of 135 import resources with a focus on quality design, traditional craftsmanship and community building, moves to the Javits Center’s Level 4 Galleria and River Pavilion from Hall 1D. Handmade Global Design will run Saturday, August 18, through Tuesday, August 21, in the column-free renovated space, which offers generous amounts of natural light, in an expanded footprint.

Craft buyers will experience easier navigation between NYIGF’s two Handmade categories – Handmade Designer Maker in the Javits Center North and Handmade Global Design in the Galleria and River Pavilion. To promote the new location, plans include an opening day reception in the Galleria, enhanced signage and other onsite activities.

Baby & Child, a collection of 125 companies offering sophisticated and purpose-driven products for children 0-10 years, will move from the Javits Center’s Hall 1E into Hall 1D, which is adjacent to NYIGF’s General Gift and maximizes cross-marketing opportunities with relevant product. In line with this change, Baby & Child will run Sunday, August 19, through Wednesday, August 22.

New York’s Newest, a showcase of companies new to NYIGF and the New York Market, will relocate into the Javits Center from its former location at the Passenger Ship Terminal’s Pier 92. This cross-category collection of nearly 200 newcomers will run Saturday, August 18, through Tuesday, August 21, in the Javits Center’s Hall 1E.

An additional highlight of the summer 2012 market is the 2nd annual Gourmet Housewares Show® at NYIGF, with some 175 exhibitors offering high-end resources in cookware, bakeware, kitchen gadgets, kitchen textiles, bar and wine accessories, small electrics, specialty food, cookbooks, storage/containers, and picnic/barbecue accessories. With the positioning of the Gourmet Housewares Show® between NYIGF’s Accent on Design and Tabletop divisions, the New York Market will present an unprecedented number of adjacent design-led housewares to buyers. Since its inception in 1975, the Gourmet Housewares Show has provided a professional marketplace for the gourmet products and upscale housewares industries.

In addition, GLM has announced plans to launch Artisan Resource, a new semi-annual tradeshow, offering U.S.-based volume importers, direct import retailers and wholesalers the opportunity to meet with international artisanal producers, alongside NYIGF in summer 2012. The new event, which will debut Sunday, August 19, through Tuesday, August 21, at the Passenger Ship Terminal’s Pier 92, offers a production-sourcing venue for overseas artisan enterprises to showcase their products and production capabilities – at export terms – from their country of origin. Both participating suppliers and attendees will be carefully vetted to support viable export relationships and maintain appropriate channels of distribution.

Beyond exhibits, a full schedule of educational programming and after-hours special events will be offered for exhibitors and attendees. Seminars will address color, design and commerce trends, sustainability, social media, retail strategies and more. Networking events include the NYIGF-sponsored Retailer Excellence Awards and NYIGF’s Night on Broadway featuring specially-priced tickets to GHOST. Details and registration will be available online, after April 15, at www.nyigf.com/programs.

NYIGF also will highlight product innovation in four special displays – a new “Open House” trend showcase, the popular SustainAbility: design for a better world® display, Baby & Child Sneak Peek and Gourmet Housewares Show Best New Product display – and with presentation of awards in eight different categories.

NYIGF is the nation’s premier gift, home and lifestyle marketplace, with 2,800+ exhibiting companies featuring an extraordinary breadth and depth of design-driven home fashion products and complementary giftware. Its 400+ product categories and more than 100,000 product lines are showcased in ten carefully-categorized divisions.

The summer market runs Saturday, August 18, through Wednesday, August 22, 2012 at New York City’s Jacob K. Javits Convention Center and Passenger Ship Terminal Piers 92 and 94. Some 35,000 attendees from all 50 states and more than 80 countries worldwide are expected. Information and registration is available online at www.nyigf.com.

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WHITE PLAINS, NY, March 23, 2012… Beginning in April, a monthly series of free “Market Readiness” webinars – addressing marketing and selling strategies, tradeshow operations and lead follow-up – will be offered to New York International Gift Fair® (NYIGF®) exhibitors. Produced jointly by NYIGF and Right Angle Strategies, the series includes four pre-show webinars, one post-show webinar, and free, 15-minute business consultations during NYIGF.

The webinars will be produced jointly by NYIGF and Right Angle Strategies, a business strategy and coaching consultancy lead by gift and home industry veterans Stu Teller and Laura Blunt. As an added benefit, Right Angle Strategies will offer all webinar participants a free, in-booth 15-minute business consultation upon request during the Fair.

“NYIGF’s Market Readiness sessions provide valuable information and action plans for exhibitors,” said Dorothy Belshaw, NYIGF director and GLM senior vice president. “The companies with the most success at market begin their work before market, and continue well after the event is over.”

Four pre-show webinars will focus on pre-show marketing, sales techniques and tradeshow operations. The fifth and final webinar, which will be held one week after NYIGF, will address market follow-up. The webinars are free for NYIGF exhibitors, and registration is available online at http://www.nyigf.com/Exhibitors/ExhibitorEducation.aspx#registration.

The first session, “Marketing Tools to Make Your Show a Success,” will be lead by Right Angle Strategies and public relations expert Cathy Steel of Steel Associates. Topics will include pre-show direct marketing, advertising and public relations, telemarketing, onsite promotions and social media. It will take place Thursday, April 26, 2pm - 3:30pm (ET).

The second pre-show webinar, “How to Attract Buyers and Close the Sale,” will be lead by Stu Teller and Laura Blunt of Right Angle Strategies, and Russ Jones of HomeStyle. The session will address creating captivating booth space, capturing buyer interest, buyer interaction; and techniques to close the sale and obtain leads. It will take place Thursday, May 31, 2pm - 3:30pm (ET).

The third and fourth online sessions – both of which address tradeshow operations and logistics – will be produced by GLM’s Operations staff. The sessions, which will be split to address operational issues specific to the Javits Center and Piers, will outline time and money-saving pre-show operations, set-up specifics and break-down instructions. “NYIGF Pier Operations Made Easy” will take place Thursday, June 28, 1pm - 2pm (ET); and “NYIGF Javits Center Operations Made Easy” will take place Thursday, June 28, 3pm - 4pm (ET).

In the final, post-show webinar, “How to Manage Orders and Leads Generated,” Right Angle Strategies will cover closing sales, following up on leads, processing orders and payments and working with sales agencies. As part of the session, Eric Dean of Whereoware.com will offer tips for maximizing post-show leads through the NYIGF Online Catalog Gallery. It will take place Thursday, August 30, 2pm - 3:30pm (ET).

In addition to the free, in-booth business consultations offered to webinar participants, Right Angle Strategies will staff an “Ask the Experts” booth onsite at NYIGF on Sunday, August 19, and Monday, August 20. The booth will be open 10:00am - 3:00pm daily. Additional information about Right Angle Strategies is available online at www.rightanglestrategies.com.

NYIGF is the nation’s premier gift, home and lifestyle marketplace, with 2,800+ exhibiting companies featuring an extraordinary breadth and depth of design-driven home fashion products and complementary giftware.

The summer market takes place Saturday, August 18 – Wednesday, August 22, 2012, at New York City’s Jacob K. Javits Convention Center and Passenger Ship Terminal Piers 92 and 94. Some 35,000 attendees from all 50 states and more than 80 countries worldwide are expected. Information and registration is available online at www.nyigf.com.

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WHITE PLAINS, NY, March 21, 2012…GLM has named Christian Falkenberg Show Director, New York International Gift Fair® (NYIGF®), effective immediately. Falkenberg – a GLM vice president and 20-year tradeshow industry veteran – has been NYIGF Show Manager, since 2008. He will report directly to Charles McCurdy, CEO, GLM.

In his new role, Falkenberg will have comprehensive oversight of the NYIGF, including strategic development, brand positioning, sales, audience marketing, public relations and operations, as well as day-to-day management of the Fair’s 15-person sales team.

“In recent years, the NYIGF has undergone a series of strategic refinements to enhance the overall product offering, cross-category synergy, market differentiation and presentation, to better serve the needs of our customers,” commented McCurdy. “Christian has played a key role in the Fair’s evolution. Given his deep experience within the gift and home industry, and the NYIGF specifically, the Fair’s growth and success will thrive under his guidance.”

“I am looking forward to bringing the Fair through the next phase of Focus Forward 2013, launching Artisan Resource Market this summer, and strengthening the NYIGF’s position as the premier marketplace in the gift, home and lifestyle industry,” added Falkenberg.

Falkenberg joined GLM in 1992. During his tenure, he has held sales and management positions with the International Hotel, Motel + Restaurant Show®, Las Vegas International Hotel & Restaurant Show, AH&MA Lodging Expo and the Air & Waste Management Association Conference and Expo. He was promoted to Vice President in 2003. Falkenberg holds a BA in Psychology from Hamilton College, and is a member of the International Association of Exhibitions & Events.

GLM creates face-to-face and online buying, selling and networking platforms for designers, product developers, manufacturers, reps, retailers and operators through tradeshow and event production, online community development and association management. GLM is headquartered in White Plains, NY, with offices in Atlanta, GA and Naples, FL. The company was founded in 1924, and acquired by Providence Equity Partners, in September 2011. Additional information is available online at www.glmshows.com.

NYIGF is the nation’s premier gift, home and lifestyle marketplace, showcasing an extraordinary breadth and depth of design-driven home fashion products and complementary giftware, with some 2,800+ companies, 400 product categories and 100,000 lines. Some 35,000 attendees from all 50 states and more than 80+ countries worldwide are expected. Information and registration is available online at www.nyigf.com.

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WHITE PLAINS, NY, March 16, 2012... The dates and location have been changed for the summer 2012 debut of Artisan Resource™, a first-of-its-kind artisan production-sourcing event for U.S.-based volume importers, direct import retailers and wholesalers. Artisan Resource will be held semi-annually alongside the New York International Gift Fair® (NYIGF®), with the first edition running Sunday, August 19, through Tuesday, August 21, at New York City's Passenger Ship Terminal Pier 92.

Artisan Resource at NYIGF
Sunday, August 19 – Tuesday, August 21
Passenger Ship Terminal Pier 92
New York City, NY
www.artisanresourceny.com
1-800-272-SHOW (7469) or 1-212-204-1060

Artisan Resource will present a curated collection of overseas artisan enterprises offering handmade production resources and products, at export terms from country of origin. This new trade event also will offer programming for exhibitors and attendees, including seminars on topics such as importing basics, FOB pricing, customs, warehousing and distribution. A special VIP preview will be held on Saturday, August 18, from 4:00PM - 7:00PM.

According to Christian Falkenberg, NYIGF manager and GLM vice president, "By launching Artisan Resource at Pier 92, which is its ultimate destination in 2013 and beyond, rather than the Javits Center as originally announced, we minimize any opportunity for buyer confusion, and create a dedicated venue for this new and differentiated offering which targets a select audience."

The NYIGF is the nation's premier tradeshow for gift, home and lifestyle merchandise. It showcases some 2,800+ exhibitors, 400 product categories and 100,000 lines. Some 35,000 attendees from all 50 states and more than 85 countries worldwide are expected.

Information and registration is available online at www.artisanresourceny.com.

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WHITE PLAINS, NY, March 16, 2012… A brand-new "Open House" exhibit will showcase 2013 home furnishings trends – from materials and color to commerce and branding – at the summer 2012 New York International Gift Fair® (NYIGF®). Presented in partnership with One Kings Lane, Sandow Media and Pantone, the display will illustrate products in six key trend categories, followed by an online flash sale of featured merchandise to benefit Gift For Life, the home, gift and stationery industries' sole charity partner.

In connection with the display, a seminar titled "Open House –What's Hot in Home Design?" will explore trends influencing home products – from materials and color to commerce and branding. Warren Shoulberg of Sandow Media will moderate the panel discussion, including Susan Feldman, One Kings Lane co-founder, and Laurie Pressman, Pantone Vice President Fashion, Home + Interiors. The session is scheduled for Sunday, August 19, from 8:30am – 9:30am, New York City's Jacob K. Javits Convention Center.

"We are delighted to partner with these leading commerce, communication and color companies to produce 'Open House' at the summer NYIGF," said Christian Falkenberg, NYIGF manager and GLM vice president. "The exhibit and educational session will offer NYIGF participants valuable trend information and inspiration."

Open House is presented by NYIGF and media sponsor Sandow Media, publisher of Home Textiles Today and Home Accents Today; color sponsor Pantone; and commerce sponsor One Kings Lane. Sandow editors will forecast home market trends, Pantone will provide color direction and One Kings Lane's merchandising team will illustrate the trends in a curated display at the NYIGF. The display will be open during all NYIGF show hours, August 18-22, 2012, at New York City's Jacob K. Javits Center.

As an added benefit, select products from the "Open House" display will be sold in a special curated flash sale on One Kings Lane, with proceeds benefitting Gift For Life, the home, gift and stationery industries' sole charity partner. The 72-hour sale will begin during NYIGF, on Sunday, August 19, on www.onekingslane.com.

One Kings Lane is the leading flash sales site for the home market, offering members access to spectacular designer home décor, furnishings, accessories, and gifts – at prices up to 70% off retail. One Kings Lane works directly with leading home brands to bring the very best products at exceptional prices to its members — every day of the week. One Kings Lane also partners with top designers, decorators and industry insiders to deliver content that inspires, enlightens and informs. www.onekingslane.com

Sandow Media Corporation is a cutting-edge publishing company built around a single philosophy: Always exceed expectations. Sandow Media is defined by an unrelenting drive to lead the industry, focus on quality and innovate. Sandow titles in the Furniture Today Media Group include Gifts & Decorative Accessories, Home Textiles Today and Furniture Today. Sandow also produces such publications as Luxe, New Beauty and Worth and is the parent company to Material ConneXion. www.sandowmedia.com

Pantone LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of X-Rite, Incorporated, the global leader in color science and technology, has been the world's color authority for nearly 50 years, providing design professionals with products and services for the colorful exploration and expression of creativity. Always a source for color inspiration, Pantone also offers paint and designer-inspired products and services for consumers. More information is available at www.pantone.com.

NYIGF is the nation's premier gift, home and lifestyle marketplace, with more than 2,800 exhibiting companies featuring an extraordinary breadth and depth of design-driven home fashion products and complementary giftware. Some 35,000 attendees from all 50 states and more than 80 countries worldwide are expected. Information and registration is available online at
nyigf.com.

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WHITE PLAINS, NY, March 9, 2012… New York's Newest, one of ten New York International Gift Fair® (NYIGF®) divisions, will move from Pier 92 to the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center for the summer 2012 market. This shift coincides with the repositioning of Artisan Resource™ – a new artisan production-sourcing event for U.S.-based importers, direct import retailers and wholesalers – to run for three days at New York City's Passenger Ship Terminal Pier 92.

For the summer 2012 NYIGF, New York's Newest will run Saturday, August 18, through Tuesday, August 21, in the Javits Center's Hall 1E. Artisan Resource will run Sunday, August 19, through Tuesday, August 21, at Pier 92, with an evening preview for NYIGF exhibitors on Saturday, August 18.

According to Dorothy Belshaw, NYIGF director and GLM senior vice president, "By launching Artisan Resource at Pier 92, which is its ultimate destination in 2013 and beyond, we minimize any opportunity for buyer confusion, and create a dedicated venue for this new and differentiated offering which targets a select audience. At the same time, by moving New York's Newest to the Javits Center, we create more synergistic product adjacencies and cross-marketing opportunities for the division's collection of 200 exhibitors new to NYIGF."

NYIGF's 10 divisions will continue to have staggered opening and closing dates, with At Home at Pier 94, Handmade® Designer Maker and Handmade® Global Design and New York's Newest running Saturday through Tuesday at the Javits Center. Accent on Design®, At Home featuring Home Textiles, Baby & Child, EX·TRACTS®, General Gift, Personal Accessories featuring Details®, Studio and Tabletop will maintain their date pattern and positioning, running Sunday through Wednesday at the Javits Center. The Gourmet Housewares Show® at NYIGF, which is presented annually during the summer market, will not be impacted by this change, and will continue to run Sunday through Wednesday at the Javits Center.

All NYIGF divisions and locations will open daily at 9am and will close daily at 6pm. On Tuesday, August 21, At Home at Pier 94, New York's Newest and the two Handmade divisions at Javits will close at 5pm. On Wednesday, August 22, all remaining divisions at the Javits Center will close at 2pm. (NOTE: A detailed listing of division locations and dates follows and is available online at http://www.nyigf.com/theshow/dateshours.aspx.)

Artisan Resource will run Sunday, August 19, through Tuesday, August 21, at Pier 92 with a special preview for NYIGF exhibitors on Saturday, August 18, from 4:00PM – 7:00PM. The show, to be held semi-annually in conjunction with NYIGF, will present a curated collection of overseas artisan enterprises offering handmade production resources and products, at export terms from country of origin. Information is available online at www.artisanresourceny.com.

NYIGF is the nation's premier gift, home and lifestyle marketplace, showcasing an extraordinary breadth and depth of design-driven home fashion products and complementary giftware, with some 2,800+ companies, 400 product categories and 100,000 lines. Some 35,000 attendees from all 50 states and more than 80+ countries worldwide are expected. Information and registration is available online at www.nyigf.com.

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New York International Gift Fair® (NYIGF®)

Saturday, August 18 – Wednesday, August 22
Jacob K. Javits Convention Center and Passenger Ship Terminal's Pier 94
New York City, NY
www.nyigf.com
1-800-272-SHOW (7469) or 1-212-204-1060)

Saturday, August 18 – Tuesday, August 21
Javits Center: Handmade® Designer Maker, Handmade® Global Design, New York's Newest
Pier 94: At Home

Sunday, August 19 – Wednesday, August 22
Javits Center: Accent on Design® featuring A+™: The Young Designers' Platform, At Home featuring Home Textiles, Baby & Child, EX·TRACTS®, General Gift featuring On Trend, Stationery & Publishing and The Museum Source®, Personal Accessories featuring Details®, Studio, Tabletop

Sunday, August 19 – Wednesday, August 22
Javits Center: The Gourmet Housewares Show® at NYIGF

Sunday, August 19* – Tuesday, August 21
Pier 92: Artisan Resource
*Exclusive preview for NYIGF exhibitors on Saturday, August 18, from 4:00PM – 7:00PM

WHITE PLAINS, NY, March 2, 2012... Scores of leading gourmet products and housewares resources from around the world are expected to return to New York City in August 2012 for the Gourmet Housewares Show® at the New York International Gift Fair® (NYIGF®). The 2nd annual edition of the Show will feature refined concentrations of both housewares and tabletop suppliers, as well as a new four-day date pattern – running Sunday, August 19, through Wednesday, August 22, at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center.

"The Gourmet Housewares Show is a proven marketplace for housewares suppliers wishing to expand their reach into the gift, home and lifestyle markets," said Dorothy Belshaw, NYIGF director and GLM senior vice president. "There is a dynamic synergy between NYIGF's design-driven resources and the Gourmet Housewares Show's upscale gourmet products, offering clear benefits for buyers and exhibitors."

The Gourmet Housewares Show presents some 175 suppliers of high-end resources in cookware, bakeware, kitchen gadgets, kitchen textiles, bar and wine accessories, small electrics, specialty food, cookbooks, storage/containers, and picnic/barbecue accessories.

Key companies expected to return for the 2012 edition include: Aladdin; Blockhouse featuring Arc, Durand and Mikasa Brands; Core Bamboo; JK Adams; Joseph Joseph; Mastrad; Mepra; Nespresso; Oggi; Picnic Time; Room Copenhagen; Scantrends; Yedi Housewares; and Zoku. Several other returning exhibitors have requested larger exhibit spaces, including: Corkcicle, Core Bamboo, DKB, Picnic Time, Pillivuyt USA, Polder and Zevro.

The Gourmet Housewares Show's positioning between NYIGF's Tabletop and Accent on Design® divisions offers synergistic access to complementary design-focused suppliers and specialty tabletop lines. On its northerly side, Accent on Design will present ASA Selection, Blomus, Eva Solo, Mydrap, Stelton and UMBRA; and on its southerly aisle, Tabletop will feature Arte Italica, Beatriz Ball, Deborah Rhodes, Frances Stoia, Juliska, Kim Seybert, Lunares, Mariposa, Match, Michael Aram, Mottahedeh, Vagabond House, Vietri. In total, the summer 2012 market will present 350 upscale resources for table and kitchen.

Since its inception in 1975, the Gourmet Housewares Show has provided a professional marketplace for the gourmet products and upscale housewares industries, offering a comprehensive mix of innovative new products, leading resources, and industry trends, and the only industry event to focus exclusively on high-end cookware, cutlery, bakeware, gadgets, tabletop, kitchen textiles and specialty food.

NYIGF is the nation's premier gift, home and lifestyle marketplace, with 2,800+ exhibiting companies featuring an extraordinary breadth and depth of design-driven home fashion products and complementary giftware. Some 35,000 attendees from all 50 states and more than 85 countries worldwide are expected. Information and registration is available online at www.nyigf.com.

For exhibitor information, contact Marc Delman, sales manager, at (914) 421-3260, or mdelman@glmshows.com. Information and attendee registration is available online at www.thegourmetshow.com.

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WHITE PLAINS, NY, February 28, 2012… Following a shift in traffic patterns and an exhibitor survey about market timing, the New York International Gift Fair® (NYIGF®) will adopt a new five-day format – opening Saturday and closing Wednesday (rather than Thursday) – beginning with the summer 2012 edition, Saturday, August 18, through Wednesday, August 22, at New York City's Jacob K. Javits Convention Center and Passenger Ship Terminal's Passenger Ship Terminal Piers 92 & 94.

NYIGF's 10 divisions will continue to have staggered opening and closing dates, with Pier divisions – At Home at Pier 94 and New York's Newest at Pier 92 – and Handmade Designer Maker and Handmade Global Design (at the Javits Center) running Saturday through Tuesday; and Accent on Design, At Home featuring Home Textiles, Baby & Child, EX·TRACTS®, General Gift, Personal Accessories featuring Details®, Studio and Tabletop running Sunday through Wednesday at the Javits Center. The Gourmet Housewares Show® at NYIGF, which is presented annually during the summer market, also will run Sunday through Wednesday.

"An overwhelming majority (85%+) of exhibitors surveyed are in favor of reducing the length of the Fair by one day, said Dorothy Belshaw, NYIGF director and GLM senior vice president. "Based on daily traffic and attendance patterns over the past few shows, we anticipate that attendance will not be affected negatively by this change."

All NYIGF divisions and locations will open daily at 9am and will close daily at 6pm. On Tuesday, August 21, At Home at Pier 94, New York's Newest at Pier 92 and Handmade at Javits will close at 5pm. On Wednesday, August 22, all remaining divisions at the Javits Center will close at 2pm.

These changes do not impact the summer 2012 launch of Artisan Resource™, a new artisan production-sourcing event for U.S.-based importers, direct import retailers and wholesalers, alongside NYIGF. The first semi-annual edition will debut Monday, August 20, through Wednesday, August 22, 2012, at New York City's Jacob K. Javits Convention Center.

NYIGF is the nation's premier gift, home and lifestyle marketplace, showcasing an extraordinary breadth and depth of design-driven home fashion products and complementary giftware, with some 2,800+ companies, 400 product categories and 100,000 lines. Some 35,000 attendees from all 50 states and more than 80+ countries worldwide are expected. Information and registration is available online at www.nyigf.com.

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Summer 2012 NYIGF Dates & Locations

New York International Gift Fair® (NYIGF®)
Including Accent on Design® featuring A+™: The Young Designers' Platform, At Home featuring Home Textiles, Baby & Child, EX·TRACTS®, General Gift featuring On Trend, Stationery & Publishing and The Museum Source®, Handmade® Designer Maker, Handmade® Global Design, New York's Newest, Personal Accessories featuring Details®, Studio, Tabletop and The Gourmet Housewares Show at NYIGF.

Saturday, August 18 – Wednesday, August 22

Jacob K. Javits Convention Center and Passenger Ship Terminal Piers 92 & 94
New York City, NY

www.nyigf.com
1-800-272-SHOW (7469) or 1-212-204-1060

WHITE PLAINS, NY, February 24, 2012… Nominations for the NYIGF-sponsored Retailer Excellence Awards (REAs) are being accepted through Friday, April 30, with 2012 Award winners scheduled to be announced in New York City, on Sunday, August 19, 6:30 -10:00PM, at The Lighthouse at Chelsea Piers. Applications and nomination forms are available online at http://www.nyigf.com/TheShow/AwardsPromotionsDisplays.aspx#REA.

Presented by Gifts & Decorative Accessories magazine, and sponsored by the New York International Gift Fair® (NYIGF®), the REAs recognize excellence in four retail categories including Gift Store Design/Redesign; Marketing Achievement; Visual Merchandising/Display; and Store Events, as well as for individual achievement (Rep of the Year and Industry Rising Star). As part of this very special evening, Gift For Life, the gift and home industry's only charitable organization, also bestows its prestigious annual "Industry Achievement" Award.

Launched in 1951, the Retailer Excellence Awards today are the gift and home industry's oldest and most prestigious awards. "This is a special evening where we recognize innovative retailers and industry individuals for their hard work and great ideas," said Dorothy Belshaw, NYIGF director and GLM senior vice president. "NYIGF is proud to sponsor the Awards and to recognize innovation and inspiration from within our industry."

Retailers who won awards in 2011 are: Sixth Floor Museum at Dealy Plaza, Museum Store + Café, Dallas, TX (Gift Store Design/Redesign); Absolutely Fabulous, Huntington Beach, CA; (Visual Merchandising/Display); Wonder Works, Charleston, SC (Marketing Achievement); and MAZE Home, Winnetka, IL (Store Events). Rep of the Year honors went to Nancy Messina, Gund, div. of Enesco; and Rising Star honors went to One Kings Lane. Michael Aram of Michael Aram was recognized with the Gift for Life Industry Achievement Awards.

Retail category applications and nominations forms can be submitted by retailers or by manufacturers' representatives; nominations for "Rep of the Year" can be submitted by retailers only; and nominations for "Rising Star" are limited to individuals or companies who have made their mark in four years of business or less.

NYIGF runs Saturday, August 18, through Thursday, August 23, 2012, at the Javits Center and Passenger Ship Terminal Piers 92 and 94 in New York City. NYIGF is the nation's premier gift, home and lifestyle marketplace, with 2,800+ exhibiting companies featuring an extraordinary breadth and depth of design-driven home fashion products and complementary giftware. Some 35,000 attendees from all 50 states and more than 80 countries worldwide are expected. Information and registration is available online at www.nyigf.com.

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WHITE PLAINS, NY, February 17, 2012… Designers, artists and manufacturers are invited to submit applications for three juried, design-focused divisions at the New York International Gift Fair® (NYIGF®): Accent on Design®; Handmade® Designer Maker; and Handmade Global Design. Applications for A+™: The Young Designers' Platform at Accent on Design, a showcase of emerging design talents within Accent on Design, are also being accepted.

Applications, which are available online at www.nyigf.com/apply, are due by Thursday, March 15, for Accent on Design, Handmade Designer Maker and Handmade Global Design. Applications for A+, which are due by Friday, June 15, are available online at http://www.nyigf.com/Exhibitors/NYIGFDivisions/ATheYoungDesignersPlatform/AApplication.aspx. The summer 2012 NYIGF runs Saturday, August 18, through Thursday, August 23, 2012, at New York City's Jacob K. Javits Convention Center and Passenger Ship Terminal Piers 92 and 94.

"For artisans and designers seeking new business opportunities, NYIGF provides unparalleled access to an expansive international wholesale market," said Dorothy Belshaw, NYIGF director and GLM senior vice president. "Our juries review all applications and accept those that represent the freshest and most innovative design resources."

Accent on Design
The gift and home industry's leading resource for design-led merchandise for more than 25 years, Accent on Design presents 200 established and emerging design brands across all categories. The Selection Committee's criteria for acceptance include: original, creative and authentic product design; new and innovative use of materials; products which address and solve problems; consistent and continuous new product creations; a focus on contemporary design (as perceived by the jury); and functionality.

Accent on Design applications, which are available online at www.nyigf.com/apply, will be accepted through Thursday, March 15, 2012.

Handmade
For more than 25 years, Handmade has offered buyers an extensive selection of handcrafted items across such categories as tabletop, ceramics, textiles, home décor, jewelry and apparel. Handmade is presented in two distinct collections: Handmade Designer Maker, which showcases 360 limited-production makers across all categories and media; and Handmade Global Design, which presents a selection of 140 international craft resources with a focus on strong design, traditional techniques and quality workmanship.Criteria for acceptance into both categories include uniqueness, originality, authenticity and marketability.

As an added benefit, the Carol Sedestrom Ross "Maker-to-Market" scholarship will be presented to one of the most promising newcomers to NYIGF's Handmade® division. The award – honoring the memory of Ross, a pivotal figure in both the American Craft movement and in GLM's development of wholesale craft market – recognizes creativity, craftsmanship and unique artisanry.

Handmade applications, which are available online at www.nyigf.com/apply, will be accepted through Thursday, March 15, 2012.

A+: The Young Designers' Platform
Within Accent on Design, the A+ showcase introduces the work of emerging designers, selected on the basis of design concept, creativity and originality. A+ provides up-and-coming designers an affordable opportunity to expose their concepts, prototypes and finished products to the wholesale marketplace. Applications for A+, which will be accepted only from design students, recent graduates and young companies in business for one year or less, will be juried by the Accent on Design Selection Committee.

A+ applications, which will be accepted through Friday, June 15, 2012, are now available online at: http://www.nyigf.com/Exhibitors/NYIGFDivisions/ATheYoungDesignersPlatform/AApplication.aspx.

NYIGF is the nation's premier gift, home and lifestyle marketplace, with 2,800 exhibiting companies featuring an extraordinary breadth and depth of design-driven home fashion products and complementary giftware. Some 35,000 attendees from all 50 states and more than 80 countries worldwide are expected. Information and registration is available online at www.nyigf.com.

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WHITE PLAINS, NY, February 8, 2012… With the introduction of 500 new companies – within 2,800 total exhibitors – the New York International Gift Fair® (NYIGF®) offered a wealth of new resources for buyers and attracted an increased number of individual retailers, as well as a robust gain in the number of stores attending market. The winter 2012 NYIGF edition ran January 28-February 2, at New York City's Jacob K. Javits Convention Center and Passenger Ship Terminal Piers 92 and 94.

The total winter 2012 NYIGF attendance of 35,000 represented retailers from all 50 states and 74 countries, with Canada, Japan, Mexico, Brazil, Columbia, Australia and the United Kingdom as the top source of international visitors. Overall, individual buyer attendance grew almost 5% over winter 2011, with total copmany attendance increasing more significantly – by 7% over last winter.

"Growth in both individual and company attendance reflects an increasingly healthy economy and amplified the positive mood of the market," said Dorothy Belshaw, NYIGF director and GLM senior vice president. "Anecdotally, exhibitors reported a week of strong order writing, especially within home product categories, including textiles, tabletop, home furnishings and gourmet housewares."

Strong attendance during the winter edition of NYIGF was well-received by exhibitors. "This show went really well. I wasn't expecting this for January. It's been fabulous," said Diana Schimmel ofDos Riberas. Alden Smith of Aid to Artisans added, "We generally have a bigger show at the summer NYIGF than at the winter NYIGF, but this show is keeping pace. It's a wonderful sign."

The NYIGF "Driven By Design" campaign – which launched in the fall of 2011 -- promoted the show's overall design-driven, fashion-forward positioning. Many exhibitors noted the buyers' behaviors have evolved to a higher level of appreciation for design. "Buyers at NYIGF really respect the handmade movement," said David Atlas of Marquet. "It's been a great show so far." Caleb Siemon of United Glass reported, "We've noticed a demand for unique items, and our higher end products have been selling more."

The winter edition of NYIGF also incorporated five days of value-added programming, including educational sessions, industry social events, product awards, feature displays and buyer promotions. Some 30+ educational seminars – mainly presented by industry publications and associations – addressed color trends, sustainability, social media and retail strategies. Industry events included 2012 Housewares Design Awards Gala & Ceremony; Gift For Life's 20th Anniversary "Party for Life" Fundraiser; and the NYIGF's "Night on Broadway" featuring ROCK OF AGES.

Market activities also included the Best New Product Awards, as selected by leading trade editors, in NYIGF's Baby & Child and EX·TRACTS® divisions, as well as in At Home featuring Home Textiles as part of the Home Textiles Market Week Best New Product Awards. Superlative product design was also recognized with the Accent on Design® Awards and the Accent on Design Bloggers' Choice Awards, chosen by representatives of leading design blogs. Within NYIGF's SustainAbility: design for a better world® exhibit, the Eco Choice Awards rewarded the most innovative and environmentally responsible products. Award winners are detailed online at www.nyigf.com/TheShow/AwardsPromotionsDisplays.aspx.

NYIGF is the nation's premier gift, home and lifestyle marketplace, with 2,800+ exhibiting companies featuring an extraordinary breadth and depth of design-driven home fashion products and complementary giftware. The summer market takes place Saturday, August 18, through Thursday, August 23, 2012, at New York City's Jacob K. Javits Convention Center and Passenger Ship Terminal Piers 92 and 94. Some 35,000 attendees from all 50 states and more than 80 countries worldwide are expected. Information and registration is available online at www.nyigf.com.

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NEW YORK, NY, February 2, 2012… Three companies received Eco Choice Awards for presenting the most innovative and environmentally responsible gift, home, and lifestyle products at the winter 2012 New York International Gift Fair® (NYIGF®).

The fifth semi-annual Eco Choice Awards, co-sponsored by NYIGF and GREENRetailer magazine, were bestowed to "green" gift and home products in three categories – Most Innovative, Most Sensitive Use of Materials and Most Sellable. Retailers attending NYIGF voted to determine the winners from nearly 200 "green" products featured in NYIGF's SustainAbility: design for a better world® display.

"Today, 'green' products have to hit several notes to be commercially successful." said Dorothy Belshaw, NYIGF director and GLM senior vice president. "Retailers selected eco-friendly products that most-appealed to them in terms of design as well as saleability."

The winners of the winter 2012 Eco Choice Awards are:

Most Innovative – Petal Clutch by walleska ecochicc/ Fashionista Source (Dallas, TX)
This chic ladies handbag is made up from 100% recycled aluminum can tabs and crocheted by hand into a petal design. Through the principles of fair trade, the creative community has spread through nearly all twelve satellite cities outside of Brazil's capital, Brasilia, employing between 30 to 50 under-privileged artisan women. Wind powers the production of the product.

Most Sensitive Use of Materials – Recycled Paper Vase - Honeycomb by Made by Humans (Vancouver, Canada)
To create this vase, recycled paper was cut into strips, which were rolled into thin tubes. The tubes were sliced and glued on the exterior of a ceramic vase. A non-toxic dye was applied to give the vase its color, and a food safe, water repellant coating was applied.

Most Sellable – Life on Earth Tot Towers by Eeboo Corporation (New York, NY)
Made from paper and recycled greybeard which is easily broken down. It is printed with soy-based ink.

NYIGF's SustainAbility: design for a better world initiative was launched in 2007 to showcase global gift, home and lifestyle suppliers whose products or production processes are eco-friendly, as well as companies whose business practices are socially responsible, philanthropic or fair-trade oriented. A zero-tolerance policy was enacted in 2010 for any products with VOC; lead (for baby, children and food-related products); aniline dyes; formaldehyde and chlorine (for textiles); and PVC, without recommendation for use and disposal.

Now entering its fifth year, this initiative incorporates a juried exhibit of sustainable gift, home and lifestyle products, the Eco Choice Awards recognizing product innovation, and a new partnership with Green America to produce a seminar series addressing sustainability and socially-responsible business practices.

The sixth semi-annual Eco Choice Awards will take place at the summer 2012 NYIGF, Saturday, August 18, through Thursday, August 23, 2012, at New York City's Jacob K. Javits Convention Center and Passenger Ship Terminal Piers 92 and 94. Once again, winners will be selected by popular ballot from all products featured in NYIGF's SustainAbility: design for a better world exhibit.

NYIGF is the nation's premier gift, home and lifestyle marketplace, with 2,800+ exhibitors featuring an extraordinary breadth and depth of design-driven home fashion products and complementary giftware. Some 35,000 attendees from all 50 states and more than 80 countries worldwide are expected. Information and registration is available online at www.nyigf.com.

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Product and award presentation photos available upon request.

NEW YORK, NY, February 1, 2012… "Bloggers' Choice Awards" were presented today to six products representing the most "urgent, odd and delightful design" at Accent on Design® at the New York International Gift Fair (NYIGF®). Bloggers from noted design and trend-watching sites each selected one product from thousands shown by 200+ designers exhibiting at the winter 2012 gift, home and lifestyle marketplace.

"These bloggers are documenting the daily evolution of product design," said Dorothy Belshaw, NYIGF director and GLM senior vice president. "They have unique, experienced perspectives with which to identify superlative products within Accent on Design."

Six products were identified by eight participating bloggers as the "next big thing:"

Baggu laptop cases by Baggu (Brooklyn, NY)
"It's highly functional, affordable and comes in a variety of beautiful, bright colored canvases. The logo is subtle and the design, simple – just a rectangle and a half circle. They add a classic, preppy aesthetic to a high tech device," remarked Hollister Hovey, HollisterHovey.blogspot.com.

Belle Helmets by MODEL CITIZENS NYC (Jersey City, NJ)
"Danielle Baskin created her line of original hand-painted helmets as a way to express her personality and creativity. We all know that helmets are a safety requirement, but with Danielle's new line, they no longer have to be strictly utilitarian. The first painted helmet she created drew so many comments and compliments, she joined Model Citizens NYC, and is debuting her collection at NYIGF. We love that they're beautiful, expressive and fully functional safety helmets for riding and skateboarding," commented Kate Reynolds McLeod, DailyGrommet.com.

BANG! by bitplay, inc. (Taipei City, Taiwan)
"I saw a lot of playful designs and products that reminded me of my childhood. In particular, I loved BANG! by first-time NYIGF exhibitor bitplay. This toy gun combines fun and function. By pulling the trigger, a desk lamp illuminates. Shoot the light again and it turns off," said Danielle De Vita, Design-Calendar.com.

BANG! by bitplay, inc. (Taipei City, Taiwan)
"BANG! is an unexpected take on a table lamp with a gun you point and shoot at the lamp to turn it on and off. This whimsical interactive feature is part conversation piece, part gas. As you shoot the lamp, the shade tips back to let you know you've hit your mark. It takes a functional, essential object and injects playful humor into it. Its minimalist design has a pop art sensibility and would look right at home in an art collector's contemporary setting," added Marisa Marcantonio, stylebeat.blogspot.com.

Chick-a-Dee smoke detector by neo-utility (Brooklyn, NY)
"It's a surprisingly clever and innovative take on a very utilitarian – and important – object that has never seen the love of good visual / industrial design," according to Evan Orensten, Coolhunting.com.

Chick-a-Dee smoke detector by neo-utility (Brooklyn, NY)
"The traditional smoke detector gets a cheep and cheerful avian makeover with the Chick-a-Dee – a plastic bird perched on a branch and ready to emit an 85-decibel-alarm at the first sign of smoke. Designed by a Dutch firm with an eye to residential interiors, the Chick-a-Dee is available in several colors, and NYIGF marks its U.S. market debut," added Stephanie Murg, UnBeige.com.

Helen Lamp by Gambrel Workshop (Seattle, WA)
"It's hard to find new design that is both functional and delightful. This has both and I am pleased to discover a new designer," said Maxwell Gillingham-Ryan, Apartment Therapy.com.

School Joke Chair by Alessandro Zambetti for Seletti North America Inc. (Brooklyn, NY)
"In the modern home versatility is key, especially when it comes to seating. The School Joke Chair by Alessandro Zambetti for Seletti addresses that issue without forgoing style and good design. It's simple to assemble without tools, is lightweight yet sturdy, and all the chair parts come off for easy storage. Another plus is the eco-friendly, recyclable packaging!" Dickson Wong, HuffingtonPost.com.

Accent on Design, the industry's leading resource for design-led merchandise, presents a dynamic juried collection of contemporary and innovative product lines from 200+ exhibitors across all categories. Accent on Design is one of 10 divisions presented semi-annually at the NYIGF.

NYIGF is the nation's premier gift, home and lifestyle marketplace, with 2,800+ exhibiting companies featuring an extraordinary breadth and depth of design-driven home fashion products and complementary giftware. The summer market takes place Saturday, August 18, through Thursday, August 23, 2012 at New York City's Jacob K. Javits Convention Center and Passenger Ship Terminal Piers 92 and 94. Some 35,000 attendees from all 50 states and more than 80 countries worldwide are expected. Information and registration is available online at www.nyigf.com.

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Product photos available upon request.

WHITE NEW YORK, NY, January 31, 2012… Four companies exhibiting in Accent on Design® at the New York International Gift Fair® (NYIGF®) were presented yesterday with Accent on Design Awards recognizing excellence, innovation and creativity in product or booth design. Accent on Design runs through Thursday, February 2, at New York City's Jacob K. Javits Convention Center.

"Our judges bring decades of design innovation and experience to the selection process," said Dorothy Belshaw, NYIGF director and GLM senior vice president. "They've identified the products and exhibitors which best showcase the incorporation of design in every step of production, from concept to manufacture and from marketing to merchandising."

Winter 2012 Accent on Design Awards were presented in three categories: Excellence in Product Design, Excellence in Booth Design and Lifetime Achievement.

Lifetime Achievement:
Eva Line, Eva Zeisel for KleinReid (Long Island City, NY) in recognition of the lifetime successes of Hungarian-born artist Eva Zeisel, who passed away in late December 2011 at age 105. Zeisel was known for her work with ceramics that were often abstractions of the natural world and human relationships. The Eva line, an instant classic since its introduction by KleinReid in 1999, features classic and sensual handmade porcelain vessels, serving ware and limited edition prints. www.kleinreid.com

Excellence in Product Design:
Karl Zahn for Areaware (Brooklyn, NY) for its Dovetail Animals, available in five styles – dog, llama, elephant, horse and crocodile. The three beautifully polished pieces – head, torso and tail – made from solid Beech wood converge with perfect dovetail joints to form the animal or can be mixed for a unique animal creation. www.areaware.com

Excellence in Product Design:
Sweet Bella, LLC (New York, NY) for its Woolfiller Kit which repairs holes and hides stains in woolen jumpers, cardigans, jackets and carpets in a simple, sustainable and satisfying solution for an age old problem. Capitalizing on the specific character of wool fibers that contain miniscule scales which open when pricked with a felt needle, the kit contains patches that bind with the opened scales and will not separate. www.sweetbellausa.com

Excellence in Booth Design:
Cameo by Rux (New York, NY) for its use of mirrored plexiglass on two intersecting walls to reflect the booth interior and product tower thereby creating the illusion of added space while prominently showcasing the hand-carved Cameo by Rux Baby Rattle marketed at the Fair. The booth walls, constructed of polished maple to mimic the wooden rattles, were set into the booth at slight angles to provide undetected booth storage areas.
www.cameobyrux.com

The Accent on Design selection committee for winter 2012 includes: David Alhadeff of The Future Perfect; Miguel Calvo of Calvo.co; Ilene Shaw of Shaw + Co! Productions; Kathy Thornton-Bias of MoMA; Laura Young of Areaware; and Wilma Wabnitz of Wabnitz Editions.

For more than 25 years, Accent on Design has been the industry's leading resource for design-led merchandise, presenting a dynamic, juried collection of contemporary and innovative product lines from 200+ designers across all categories. Accent on Design is one of 10 divisions presented semi-annually at the NYIGF.

NYIGF is the nation's premier gift, home and lifestyle marketplace, with 2,800+ exhibiting companies featuring an extraordinary breadth and depth of design-driven home fashion products and complementary giftware. The summer 2012 New York International Gift Fair will take place Saturday, August 18, through Thursday, August 23, 2012. Some 35,000 attendees from all 50 states and more than 80 countries worldwide are expected. Information and registration is available online at www.nyigf.com.

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Product and award presentation photos available upon request.

WHITE NEW YORK, NY, January 31, 2012… Six companies were presented with EX·TRACTS® Best New Product Awards today, with Royal Apothic receiving "Best of Show" honors for its Heroes & Aristocrats collection. EX·TRACTS, one of 10 divisions of the New York International Gift Fair® (NYIGF®), runs through Thursday, February 2, at New York City's Jacob K. Javits Convention Center.

In addition to the "Best of Show" distinction, EX·TRACTS awards are presented semi-annually in five categories: Bath & Body; Beauty Accessory; Cosmetic & Fragrance; Natural/Organic; and Packaging. Winners and finalists in each category are selected by a panel of editors based on innovative design, creative use of materials/construction and use of new materials/technology.

The winter 2012 EX·TRACTS Best New Products winners and finalists, selected from more than 100 products, are:

BEST OF SHOW:
Royal Apothic (London, England)for its Heroes & Aristocrats collection of sophisticated grooming products for gentlemen, packaged in a vintage constellation print. The collection offers a Mandle (candle for a man), The Scent No. 1 (Eau de Parfum spray), Shave Oil (an ultra fine emollient for shaving) and Ultra Shave (a crème gel made with lactic acid to uniquely exfoliate the skin during a shave). The Scent No. 1 is derived from vetiver, sandalwood, lavender, mandarin, and bourbon and blended to create a clean scent meant to recall the reminiscent masculinity of English soap. Heroes and Aristocrats Shave Oil and Ultra Shave can be used independently or in combination for a proper English shave.

BATH & BODY CATEGORY:
Winner: J.R. Watkins Naturals (Winona, MN) for its Grapefruit Body Oil Mist, an all-natural, easy-absorbing full body fragrance and moisturizing oil. Made of fully sustainable resources, the 100% naturally derived fragrance contains apricot kernel oil and age-defying vitamin E.
Finalist: Cali Cosmetics, Inc. (New York, NY) for its E. Vulcano Body Creme.
Finalist: RICA bath & body (Brooklyn, NY) for its RICA Single Serving Minis.

BEAUTY ACCESSORY CATEGORY:
Winner: OKA b. Footwear (Buford, GA) for its OKA b. Ballet Flat, a stylish, comfortable and eco-friendly ballet flat made of antimicrobial recycled plastic and with an ergonomic foot bed. With a slight lift in the heel and a non-slip sole, the flat's full arch support comes from reflexology-inspired massage beads. The wear-anywhere flats are packaged in a magnetic box that conveniently collapses flat for easy storage.
Finalist: butter LONDON™ (Seattle, WA) for its 3 Free, color-drenched nail lacquer.
Finalist: Soapwalla Inc. (Brooklyn, NY) for its Lip Locked.

COSMETIC & FRAGRANCE CATEGORY:
Winner: Simpatico (St. Louis, MO) for its Ambergris Solid Perfume, made of beeswax, jojoba oil, and vitamin E. The scent is sweet and musky and rumored to have been a favorite of Queen Elizabeth I. As an added benefit, the perfume which is perfectly sized for travel, doubles as a moisturizing salve.
Finalist: Fragrances of Ireland – Inis the Energy of the Sea (Laguna Beach, CA) for its Inis Energy of the Sea Solid Cologne Shell Compact.
Finalist: Votivo (Spartanburg, SC) for its Pink Mimosa Aromatic Collection.

NATURAL/ORGANIC CATEGORY:
Winner: Marula – The Leakey Collection (Newport Beach, CA) for its Marula Oil, a full-body healing and beauty oil made from hand-selected kernels of wild-harvested fruit of marula trees in Kenya.
Finalist: B. Witching Bath Co. (Hawthorne, NJ) for its Organic Muscle Rub.
Finalist: Anjolie Ayurveda (Hastings-on-Hudson, NY) for its Anjolie Aromatherapy Body Butters.

PACKAGING CATEGORY:
Winner: ECOYA (Botany Bay, Australia) for its Equality Candle, a 100% soy candle in ribbed, cobalt blue glass with packaging that resembles a history book, as an homage to the historic efforts of current social campaigns for marriage rights in the U.S. All profits from the product will be donated to further the cause for marriage equality.
Finalist: San Francisco Soap Co. (Fall River, MA) for its Geometric Collection of Bath Bars.
Finalist: Ebb & Flow (New York, NY) for its Gift Sets.

"These products excel in design, quality and performance," said Melissa Engongoro, EX·TRACTS sales manager. "They are indicative of the innovation from EX·TRACTS exhibitors across the board."

The EX·TRACTS Best New Product Award judges were: Jean Warshaw, Beauty Store Business; Patricia Norins, GIFT SHOP; Meredith Schwartz, Gifts & Decorative Accessories; Susan Tucker, Giftware News; and Paulina Kajankova, Insiders Guide to Spas/Spirituality & Health.

EX·TRACTS features 100 exhibitors of cosmetics, perfumes, skincare, bath & body care, beauty accessories, haircare, natural and organic products and well-being lines. The summer 2012 edition will take place Sunday, August 19, through Thursday, August 23, 2012 at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center. Information is available online at www.extractsny.com.

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Product and award presentation photos available upon request.

NEW YORK, NY, January 30, 2012… In response to growing demand, GLM will launch a first-of-its-kind artisan production-sourcing event for U.S.-based importers, direct import retailers and wholesalers in August 2012. Presented semi-annually alongside the New York International Gift Fair® (NYIGF®), this new trade event also will offer programming for exhibitors and attendees, including seminars on topics such as importing basics, FOB pricing, customs, warehousing and distribution.

Artisan Resource™ will offer a new market to juried overseas artisan enterprises offering handmade production resources and products, at export terms from each country of origin. Artisan Resource exhibitors will be carefully selected for their proven experience in meeting export demands, and by their commitment to design innovation, cultural preservation, social enterprise and sustainability. Participating exhibitors will hail from countries including Afghanistan, Colombia, Guatemala, Haiti, India, Mexico, Nepal, Peru, Philippines, South Africa and West Africa. Some 50 companies are expected to participate in the inaugural show.

"This is an exciting new opportunity to broaden the scope of the New York International Gift Fair by offering a platform to a new segment of the gift and home distribution channel," said Dorothy Belshaw, NYIGF director and GLM senior vice president. "Artisan Resource will efficiently and affordably facilitate a stronger pipeline of global artisanal craft into mainstream U.S. distribution."

Artisan Resource attendees will include import buyers representing large and volume retail stores, national retail chains, mail order catalogues, wholesaler companies and manufacturers, designers, and sourcing agents. Attendance will be credential-based, as buyers will be required to handle FOB (freight on board) pricing.

The first semi-annual edition of Artisan Resource will be presented Monday, August 20, through Wednesday, August 22, 2012, at New York City's Jacob K. Javits Center; and the second semi-annual edition will be held Monday, January 28, through Wednesday, January 30, 2013, at the Passenger Ship Terminal's Pier 92 in New York City. In advance of the show's opening, there will be two days of exhibitor education, U.S. market-readiness training and New York market familiarization.

The show will be managed by GLM and organized with the assistance of ByHand Consulting, a decade-old business offering product design, marketing and training expertise to help artisan enterprises reach new export markets, and to help U.S. buyers source artisan products. Its clients include export promotion agencies of foreign governments, international economic development institutions, and private enterprises in the U.S. and abroad.

"There is an unprecedented demand for handmade and artisan products in U.S. gift, home and accessories markets today. Tapping into large production artisan resources allows importers access to suppliers with quantity capabilities and capacities," said ByHand co-founder Colvin English. "We're delighted to partner with GLM to formalize what we have been doing independently at NYIGF for some time."

Co-founders Colvin English and Karen Gibbs have more than 40 years of experience in product design, marketing, sales, business management and training. Their experience includes working with artisans in more than 50 countries. Formerly GLM's Director of Craft Marketing, English has worked with both for-profit and non-profit groups to market handcrafts. Gibbs' career spans non-profit organizations Aid to Artisans and Hand/Eye Fund to independent consulting with leading international development organizations.

For Artisan Resource exhibitor information, contact Allison Rober, sales manager, at (914) 421-3212, or arober@glmshows.com. Attendee information is available by calling 1-800-272-SHOW (7469) or (212) 204-1066. Additional information and registration is available online at www.artisanresourceny.com.

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WHITE PLAINS, NY, January 30, 2012... GLM has announced the promotion of Allison Rober to the position of sales manager for Artisan Resource™, a new semi-annual tradeshow in New York City offering U.S.-based importers, direct import retailers and wholesalers the opportunity to meet with international artisan enterprises.

As sales manager, Rober will be responsible for developing and executing sales strategies for the new show, which will debut in August 2012 and run concurrently with the New York International Gift Fair® (NYIGF®). She reports to Christian Falkenberg, NYIGF show manager.

Rober, an eight-year GLM veteran, has served as sales representative for two GLM events, The Gourmet Housewares Show® at NYIGF and NYIGF's Tabletop & Housewares division, and as show coordinator for NYIGF's General Gift division. She earned aMaster of Tourism Administration from the George Washington University School of Business in Washington, DC, and a Bachelor of Business Administration from Hofstra University in New York.

"Allison has the experience and education needed in this position," said Dorothy Belshaw, NYIGF director and GLM senior vice president. "Her previous positions at GLM have given her exposure to shows-within-shows and international groups, both of which are essential components of Artisan Resource."

Artisan Resource at the NYIGF will offer a production-sourcing venue for overseas artisan enterprises to showcase their products and production capabilities – at export terms – from their country of origin. The event will be managed by GLM and organized with the assistance of ByHand Consulting, which specializes in helping artisan enterprises reach new export markets through expertise in product design, marketing and training.

GLM creates face-to-face and online buying, selling and networking platforms for designers, product developers, manufacturers, reps, retailers and operators through tradeshow and event production, online community development and association management. GLM is headquartered in White Plains, NY, with offices in Atlanta, GA and Naples, FL. The company was founded by George F. Little, in 1924, and acquired by Providence Equity Partners, in September 2011. Additional information is available online at www.glmshows.com.

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Photo available upon request.

NEW YORK, NY, January 30, 2012… Five companies were presented with Baby & Child Best New Product Awards today, with The Wonder Forge™ receiving the "Blogger's Best" distinction for its Angelina Ballerina Dance With Me interactive game. Baby & Child,one of 10 divisions in the New York International Gift Fair® (NYIGF®), runs through Wednesday, February 1, at New York City's Jacob K. Javits Convention Center.

In addition to the "Blogger's Best" award, Baby & Child Best New Product Awards winners are recognized semi-annually for excellence in four categories: toy, décor, gear and apparel. A panel of editors from print and electronic media outlets selected products which exemplified innovation, design and style.

"These winners were clear stand-outs in a competitive field of outstanding products in Baby & Child," said Randi Mohr, Baby & Child sales manager. "The judges recognized design innovation and creativity which set these products apart from all others."

The winter 2012 winners and finalists, selected from 100 products, are:

BLOGGER'S BEST:
The Wonder Forge™ (Seattle, WA) for its Angelina Ballerina Dance with Me, an interactive collaborative game where kids take the center stage.

TOY:
Winner: Tegu (Darien, CT) for its Tegu Mobility – Dart, a wooden car with 10 classic Tegu blocks, a signature magnetic styling top, and 4 magnetic wooden wheels, Dart is a member of the Compact Line of Tegu Mobility.
Finalist: Hape North America (Sherwood Park, Alberta, Canada) for its Pancakes.
Finalist: Juratoys US Corp (Fort Lauderdale, FL) for its Janod Wooden Toys.

DÉCOR:
Winner: Swankie Blankie (Plano, TX) for its Citron Marbella Receiving Blanket, a receiving blanket that is wash and dryer save and has a unique design.
Finalist: Magicforest (Portsmouth, NH) for its Sevi Fly With Me Growth Chart.
Finalist: My Boy Sam Ltd (New Milford, CT) for its Baby Stroller Blanket.

GEAR:
Winner: 7 A.M.® Enfant (New York, NY) for its Pookie Poncho, a baby carrier cover and stroller cover in one, made of waterproof materials.
Finalist: MadPax, LLC (Phoenix, AZ) for its BUBBLE by MadPax..
Finalist: GroVia® (Bozeman, MT) for its Curious About Cloth Kit.

APPAREL:
Winner: Zutano Inc. (Cabot, VT) for its Bowtie, the new accessory for little boys in Zutano's hallmark colors.
Finalist: Dabbawalla Bags (Seattle, WA) for its Lunch Knot Purse.
Finalist: Tutu Couture® (Atlanta, GA) for its Officially Licensed Collegiate Tutu Line.

The Best New Product Award judges were: Joanne Fallon, Baby & Kids Magazine; Jennifer Cattaui, Earnshaw's; Joanna Dreifus, MyMomShops.com; Caroline Kennedy, Playthings; and Leesa Valentino, TheGiggleGuide.com.

Baby & Child features 125 companies offering sophisticated and purpose-driven products for children 0-10 years. It is one of 10 divisions presented semi-annually at the New York International Gift Fair. The summer 2012 NYIGF edition will run August 18-23, 2012, at New York City's Jacob K. Javits Convention Center and Passenger Ship Terminal Piers 92 & 94. For information and registration, visit www.nyigf.com.

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Product and award presentation photos available upon request.

NEW YORK, NY, January 29, 2012... The American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) NY Metro Chapter recognized seven exhibitors in At Home at the New York International Gift Fair® (NYIGF®) as the "Best of the Best" in the winter 2012 market. At Home, one of 10 divisions presented semi-annually at the NYIGF, runs through Wednesday, February 1, at New York City's Passenger Ship Terminal Pier 94.

Recipients of the winter 2012 ASID "Best of the Best" awards are:

Imaginative Product Presentation:
TEMPO Luxury Home Collection (New York, NY)

Innovative Product Design:
Ercole Inc. (New York, NY)

Social Responsibility, Ecological Sensitivity and Universal Design Awareness:
Bevara Design House (San Rafael, CA)

Lighting:
Vivify Lighting (Charlotte, NC)

Accessories:
J. Fleet Designs Ltd. (Pleasantville, NY)

Textiles:
Rani Arabella (New York, NY)

Wall Art:
Pheromone by Christopher Marley (Salem, OR)

Judges for the winter 2012 ASID "Best of the Best" awards were: ASID NYIGF Chair Judy Girod, FASID, CID; Arlene Angard, Allied Member ASID; Kati Curtis, ASID, CID; Rita Grants, ASID; Drew McGukin, Allied Member ASID; Bill Spink, Allied Member ASID; and. Vincent Taylor, ASID, CID.

"NYIGF is an important market for ASID members seeking design-driven home furnishings and related resources," said Pamela Durante, ASID, CID, president of the ASID NY Metro chapter. "From hundreds of impressive companies at Pier 94, we're recognizing these seven for superlative talent and design inspiration."

Founded in 1975, ASID is a professional organization with more than 40,000 members in the U.S. and Canada and comprised of practicing interior designers, design students and industry representatives. For more information about ASID's New York Metro chapter, visit www.asidnymetro.com.

"We're delighted to continue NYIGF's partnership with ASID," said Dorothy Belshaw, NYIGF director and senior vice president. "By welcoming professionally accredited interior designers to the Fair, we can help our exhibitors develop business streams above and beyond the specialty retail market."

At Home offers a complete range of hard lines and soft goods – from indoor to outdoor and traditional to contemporary – at New York City's Jacob K. Javits Convention Center and Passenger Ship Terminal Pier 94. The summer 2012 edition will take place Saturday, August 18, through Thursday, August 23, 2012.

NYIGF is the nation's premier gift, home and lifestyle marketplace, with 2,800+ exhibiting companies featuring an extraordinary breadth and depth of design-driven home fashion products and complementary giftware. Some 35,000 attendees from all 50 states and more than 80 countries worldwide are expected. Information and registration is available online at www.nyigf.com.

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WHITE PLAINS, NY, April 15, 2011… Implementation of Phase Two of a three-year strategic reorganization of the New York International Gift Fair® (NYIGF®) begins in August 2011 with integration of the Gourmet Housewares Show® into NYIGF, the addition of new product-focused "neighborhoods" in several divisions and continued refinement of existing categories. A full schedule of seminars, special events, displays and promotions are among other highlights of the summer market, which runs August 13-18, 2011, at New York City's Jacob K. Javits Convention Center and Passenger Ship Terminal Piers 92 and 94.

"Through 'Focus Forward 2013,' NYIGF continues to transform and strategically reorganize to become the defining marketplace for fashion-forward, design-driven home, gift and lifestyle resources," said Dorothy Belshaw, NYIGF director and GLM senior vice president. "The first time integration of The Gourmet Housewares Show will exponentially increase and complement the breadth and depth of resources for buyers, and a series of enhancements to other divisions will dramatically facilitate sourcing and shopping for buyers."

With the Gourmet Housewares Show's repositioning alongside NYIGF, some 150 high-end gourmet products suppliers will be showcased at the summer 2011 edition. With a full range of high-end cookware, bakeware, kitchen gadgets, kitchen textiles, bar and wine accessories, small electrics, specialty food, cookbooks, storage/containers and picnic/barbecue accessories, The Gourmet Housewares Show will nicely complement NYIGF's Tabletop division and its refined concentration of 200 suppliers of specialty tabletop lines.

Among enhancements planned for summer 2011 is the addition of a new "On Trend neighborhood" and expansion of the existing "Stationery & Publishing" neighborhood within NYIGF's General Gift division; the expansion of the existing "Handmade Jewelry" neighborhood in Personal Accessories; and launch of a new "Artisan Jewelry Showcase" within New York's Newest.

Within General Gift, the new "On Trend" neighborhood will feature nearly 20 companies including Fred & Friends, Kito, Ore, Present Time and Wild & Wolf, for its August debut. Within New York's Newest at Pier 92, the "Artisan Jewelry Showcase" debut will present some 30+ jewelry makers new to NYIGF. In Personal Accessories, the "handmade jewelry" neighborhood launched in winter 2011 with 20 companies will expand to feature 30 companies offering high-quality handmade items.

Following an extensive jury review process, NYIGF's juried design divisions will welcome some 60 new applicants to the summer market. From 150 submissions, the Accent on Design® Selection Committee accepted 19 contemporary design resources for participation; and from 200+ submissions to Handmade®, the juries accepted 10 companies into Handmade® Global Design and 29 designers – including one promising designer/maker receiving the first annual Carol Sedestrom Ross "Maker-to-Market" Scholarship – into Handmade® Designer Maker.

Throughout market week, nearly 30 educational seminars and social events will offer added value for market participants. Sessions will cover current trends in social media, sustainability and color; as well as visual merchandising, fair trade, marketing and retail strategies. After-hours industry and networking functions include the 60th Annual Retailer Excellence Awards on Sunday, August 14, and NYIGF's popular "Night on Broadway" on Tuesday, August 16. Information and registration will be available online, at www.nyigf.com/programs, after May 1.

NYIGF's SustainAbility: design for a better world® display, showcasing a curated selection of eco-friendly and socially-responsible gift and home products, will be located in the Javits Connector. NYIGF also will feature a Baby & Child "Peek-A-Boo" display, showcasing a variety of juvenile gear, apparel, décor and toys.

NYIGF will showcase product innovation and excellence through presentation of awards in several categories. Retailers vote for their favorite "green" products in the Eco- Choice Awards; trade and consumer editors select winners of the EX∙TRACTS® Best New Product Awards, Home Textiles Market Week® Best New Product Awards and Baby & Child Best New Product Awards; bloggers identify their top product picks in the Accent on Design Bloggers' Choice Awards; and the Accent on Design Selection Committee bestows the coveted Accent on Design Awards for best product and best collection.

NYIGF is continuing to utilize technology to streamline the registration process and make it easier to get information before, during and after the Fair. For the first time this summer, online registration will be open throughout the Fair, with free "early bird" rates offered to qualified buyers through August 12. NYIGF is also launching a new sophisticated mobile application which allows more streamlined and intuitive access to the NYIGF.com search features.

The summer 2011 NYIGF runs Saturday, August 13, through Thursday, August 18, at New York City's Jacob K. Javits Convention Center and Passenger Ship Terminal Piers 92 & 94. Pier exhibits (New York's Newest at Pier 92 and At Home at Pier 94) as well as select divisions at the Javits Center (Baby & Child, Handmade Designer Maker and Handmade Global Design), run Saturday, August 13, through Wednesday, August 17. All other divisions (Accent on Design® featuring A+™: The Young Designers' Platform, At Home featuring Home Textiles, EX∙TRACTS, General Gift featuring Floral & Garden Accessories and The Museum Source®, The Gourmet Housewares Show, Personal Accessories featuring Details® and Tabletop run Sunday, August 14, through Thursday, August 18, at the Javits Center.

NYIGF is the nation's premier gift, home and lifestyle marketplace, with 2,800+ exhibiting companies featuring an extraordinary breadth and depth of design-driven home fashion products and complementary giftware. Some 35,000 attendees from all 50 states and more than 85 countries worldwide are expected. Information and registration is available online at www.nyigf.com.

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WHITE PLAINS, NY, April 23, 2010... Three key components of a three-year "Focus Forward NYIGF 2013" strategic plan will be implemented in time for the August 2010 New York International Gift Fair® (NYIGF®), with the introduction of a new Baby & Child division, the return of New York's Newest, the reorganization of Handmade® into two distinct categories - Handmade Designer Maker and Handmade Global Design and first-time use of the new Javits Center North exhibit hall. NYIGF will present some 2,800 exhibitors - from August 14 through 19 - at New York City's Jacob K. Javits Convention Center and Passenger Ship Terminal Piers 92 & 94 - as well as a full complement of market week seminars, events, displays and promotions for participants.

"These exciting changes mark the start of NYIGF's evolution into the defining marketplace for fashion-forward and design-driven home, gift and lifestyle resources," said Dorothy Belshaw, NYIGF director and GLM senior vice president. "As part of our three year strategic plan, buyers can more easily source and shop a depth and breadth of complementary categories."

Baby & Child, a new jury-selected specialty products division, will debut at the summer 2010 NYIGF, with a comprehensive collection of well-designed, sophisticated and purpose-driven products for children 0-10. The division includes a strong assortment of quality suppliers, including leading brands relocating into Baby & Child from other NYIGF divisions, an influx of companies returning to the market to be part of this focused presentation and first-time participation by exciting new lines. The category mix features wearables, accessories, toys, books, games, gear and furnishings.

New York's Newest will return to the Fair this summer at Pier 92, presenting some 200 exhibiting companies - across all product categories. Participants include established resources participating for the first-time in NYIGF, as well as young companies making their gift market debut. Among the trend-focused lines expected are eco-friendly products, fair-trade products, pet products and personal accessories such as jewelry and bags.

Handmade, an extensive, juried selection of cross-category handcrafted items, celebrates its 25th anniversary this summer with a notable increase in the quality and quantity of participating artisans. The creation of two separate collections, Handmade Designer Maker and Handmade Global Design, classifies artisans by process and provenance with renewed focus on superior design and craftsmanship. Global Design features 200 international resources that combine sophisticated design with traditional artisanal techniques; and Designer Maker showcases 360 limited-production makers - across all categories and in all media - from around the world. Handmade Designer Maker will make its debut in the new Javits Center North, a purpose-built 40,000-square foot exhibit space, with a ribbon-cutting and cocktail reception on Saturday, August 14.

Among highlights of NYIGF's other seven division are: expansion of Accent on Tabletop showcase area within Tabletop & Housewares; continued refinement of "neighborhoods" and expansion of the German and Japanese pavilions within General Gift; the return of leading design resources (such as Alessi, ASA and Stelton) and the expansion of "Accent on Japan" in Accent on Design®, as well as first-time participation by JOIN Seattle in A+™: The Young Designers' Platform; expansion of hard lines for home within At Home at Pier 94 and further consolidation of soft goods within At Home featuring Home Textiles at the Javits Center; and an increased number of personal care, beauty and cosmetics suppliers within EX·TRACTS®.

Beyond exhibits, a comprehensive schedule of educational seminars and industry events will add value to the summer market experience. The program includes nearly 20 instructive sessions, addressing topics as varied as social media, trends in gift, home and color, sustainability and retail strategies. (NOTE: A schedule of events/seminars follows, and is available to press at www.nyigf.com/programs.)

Onsite and after-hours networking functions include the Handmade 25th Anniversary Celebration, the 59th Annual Retailer Excellence Awards and "A Night on Broadway," featuring specially-priced ticket to the THE ADDAMS FAMILY. Additionally, through the cooperation of NYIGF and New York City's permanent showrooms, New York Market participants can visit the Brooklyn Museum for free at any time from Friday, August 13, through Thursday, August 20. For complete information and registration, visit www.nyigf.com/programs.

NYIGF's SustainAbility: design for a better world® display will return in 2010 to feature hundreds of "green" gift and home products. Through a careful vetting process, the display exclusively showcases eco-friendly products or production processes and socially responsible business practices, with "Zero Tolerance" for VOC; lead (for baby, children and food-related products); PVC, without recommendation for use and disposal, and unless repurposed; and aniline dyes, formaldehyde, chlorine (for textiles).

NYIGF will spotlight product innovation through several award presentations during the market - with top honors bestowed by trade and consumer editors, bloggers and industry experts, as well as open voting by all NYIGF participants. For the first time this summer, NYIGF also will bestow a "People's Choice" and "Designer Distinction Award" to participants in the Gift For Life Product Design Competition benefiting DIFFA: Design Industries Foundation Fighting AIDS.

NYIGF is the nation's premier gift, home and lifestyle marketplace, with 2,800 exhibiting companies featuring an extraordinary breadth and depth of design-driven home fashion products and complementary giftware. Some 35,000 attendees from all 50 states and more than 85 countries worldwide are expected. Information and registration is available online at www.nyigf.com.

The summer 2010 NYIGF runs Saturday, August 14, through Thursday, August 19, at New York City's Jacob K. Javits Convention Center and Passenger Ship Terminal Piers 92 & 94. Pier exhibits (New York's Newest at Pier 92 and At Home at Pier 94) as well as select divisions at the Javits Center (Baby & Child, Handmade® Designer Maker and Handmade® Global Design), run Saturday, August 14, through Wednesday, August 18. All other divisions (Accent on Design® featuring A+™: The Young Designers' Platform, At Home featuring Home Textiles, EX·TRACTS®, General Gift featuring Floral & Garden Accessories and The Museum Source®, Personal Accessories featuring Details®, Studio and Tabletop & Housewares featuring Accent on Tabletop) run Sunday, August 15, through Thursday, August 19, at the Javits Center.

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NEW YORK INTERNATIONAL GIFT FAIR® August 2010
SEMINAR, EVENT & PROMOTION SCHEDULE
For information and registration, visit www.nyigf.com/programs

SEMINARS

Saturday, August 14

NYIGF Orientation, sponsored by Giftware News and Baby & Kids
8:30 - 9:30AM
Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, 1E04
Free daily NYIGF Orientation sessions will help first-time attendees navigate the Fair, use the directory and make the most of their time at market. Orientation sessions will be presented by GLM's Buyer Services Representative Helen Overly. Ashley Trent of Giftware News and Baby & Kids will answer industry-specific questions and provide information on how to shop the show. Also offered on Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday. Advance registration is required.

Get Growing! Easy Ways to Expand Your Customer Base
3:30 - 4:30PM
Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, 1A02-03
Joe Jones, president of Jones Publishing, and Ryan Jones, publisher of The Crafts Report, offer retailers inexpensive ideas and useful tools to help retain current customers and develop new customers. Tickets are $20 advance and $25 onsite.

Sunday, August 15

Gift Trends: 2010 and Beyond with Gift & Home Interactive
8:30 - 9:30AM
Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, 1A02-03
John Saxtan, editor and publisher of Gift & Home Interactive, presents a practical and fun-filled look at the leading trends of today and tomorrow. Retailers will learn what's hot in gift and home, key categories to watch, changes in consumer buying habits, and how to profit from the trends. Tickets are $20 advance and $25 onsite.

ART Retailer Roundtables
9:00 - 11:00AM
Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, 1E04
Home accent retailers are invited to share business, personnel and buying issues in a confidential, invitation-only session facilitated by ART (Accessories Resource Team). Comments and discussion points will be published anonymously as part of Home Accents Today's "Retail Unplugged" column. To volunteer, contact Sharon Davis, Executive Director, ART, at sharonjdavisnc@earthlink.net, or 704-376-4278. Free, with advance registration and acceptance required.

Home Trends - What's Now? What's Next? presented by The Trend Curve
12:00 Noon - 1:00PM
Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, 1A02-03
Michelle Lamb, internationally known trend forecaster and publisher of The Trend Curve, presents an overview of trends - both on the rise and headed into decline - impacting the home industry today. This image-rich presentation (with real-time examples taken from the summer 2010 NYIGF), will provide key insights into home trends from colors and materials to and styles and patterns. Tickets are $20 advance and $25 onsite.

CRAFT Table Topics - Lunch & Learn!
12:30 - 2:00PM
Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, location to be announced
Veteran retailers and supporters of Craft Retailers and Artists for Tomorrow (CRAFT) will moderate small groups to share information and answer questions on the following topics:

Making a retail blog work for you.
Public relations strategies for craft galleries/shops.
How to use Facebook and Twitter to build your business.
Selling designer jewelry in a tough economy.
Doing E-newsletters using constant contact can save your business.
How to create and use a good standard operating procedure manual.
Not getting the maximum out of your website?

Tickets are $20 advance and $25 onsite.

Emarketing 1.0 - Untangle the Web: Website Basics
3:00 - 4:00PM
Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, 1A02-03
Patricia Norins, publisher of Gift Shop and GREENRetailer, presents a review of five must-have website elements, as well as tips on setting-up a website, managing its content and understanding SEO. Tickets are $20 advance and $25 onsite; or $30 in advance and $45 onsite for both social media sessions.

Emarketing 2.0 - Business-Boosting E-marketing Strategies
4:30 - 5:30PM
Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, 1A02-03
Patricia Norins, publisher of Gift Shop and GREENRetailer, will address how to make email a more effective marketing tool, use blogs, social media and video to drive website traffic, improve website SEO and develop e-commerce capabilities. Tickets are $20 advance and $25 onsite; or $30 in advance and $45 onsite for both social media sessions.

Monday, August 16

The Influence of Color, presented by IFDA
9:00 - 10:30AM, with continental breakfast and networking starting at 8:30AM
Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, 1A02-03
The New York Chapter of The International Furnishings and Design Association (IFDA) leads an in-depth exploration of color and its impact on buying trends. Patti Carpenter will discuss color and global influences of emerging markets and Stacy Garcia, a member of Color Marketing Group who has extensive licenses of home products, will discuss the use of color in the home. $30 for IFDA members and $45 for guests in advance. $40 and $55 onsite. For information, visit www.ifda.com, or to register, call 212-686-6020, or email ifdanyny@verizon.net.

It's Easy Being Green - Just Ask the Experts!
12:00 Noon - 1:30PM
Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, 1A02-03
Members of NYIGF's SustainAbility Task Force - all experts in "green" retail, design, manufacturing and fair trade - lead an informal and open-forum exploration of environmentally-friendly and socially-responsible best practices. Susan Szenasy, editor-in-chief of Metropolis Magazine, will moderate a panel including Amy Chender of ABC Home; Enrico Bressan of Artecnica; Mark Caserta of 3R Living; Matthew Morris, retail, design, product development consultant; Jessica Pope of Working Class Studio, SCAD (Savannah College of Art and Design); and Jaime Salm of MIO. Tickets are $20 advance and $25 onsite.

Social Media 1.0 - A Beginner's Guide to Social Media
3:00 - 4:00 PM
Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, 1A02-03
This introduction to social media will provide basic details about technologies such as Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and You Tube. Jenny Heinzen York, editor in chief, Home Accents Today, and Caroline Kennedy, editor in chief, Gifts & Decorative Accessories will explain who is using them, how to start sending and receiving communications and how to identify tools used to monitor the chatter. Tickets are $20 advance and $25 onsite; or $30 in advance and $45 onsite for both social media sessions.

Social Media 2.0 - Using Online Technologies to Build Your Business
4:30 - 5:30PM
Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, 1A02-03
Retailers will learn how to use social media tools like Facebook, Twitter, and You Tube to find and communicate with customers, and how to use these technologies to generate sales, develop content that builds customer involvement and loyalty, and generate a viral buzz for products and services. Jenny Heinzen York, editor in chief of Home Accents Today, and Caroline Kennedy, editor in chief, Gifts & Decorative Accessories lead the discussion, with panelists including social media savvy members of the gift and home industries. Tickets are $20 advance and $25 onsite; or $30 in advance and $45 onsite for both social media sessions.

Tuesday, August 17

The 1, 2, 3's of Successful Buying & Inventory Control, presented by Earnshaw's
8:30 - 10:00AM
Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, 1A02-03
Retailers will learn essential business basics with formulas and common sense tools from Vincent G. Quan, industry consultant and assistant professor in
the Fashion Merchandising Management Department of the Jay and Patty Baker School of Business and Technology at New York City's Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT). He will demonstrate how to calculate open to buy; determine markups; estimate net profit; and figure out markdowns. Quan will be available for Q&A afterwards. Tickets are $20 advance and $25 onsite.

Four Basic Strategies that Drive Retail Sales, sponsored by RetailerForum.biz
12:00 Noon - 1:30PM
Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, 1A02-03
Retail business coach Barbara Crowhurst will outline four basic strategies to increase retail sales and build business: Marketing to capture new customers and grow repeat business; hiring, training and managing employees for best results; using store design and product placement to spark sales; and developing an in-store sales focus that increases revenue. One seminar attendee will be randomly selected for a complimentary "Power Hour" Retail Makeover by Crowhurst. Tickets are $20 advance and $25 onsite.

Innovative Merchandising Strategies to Elevate Your Sales, sponsored by The Day Spa Association
3:00 - 4:00PM
Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, 1A02-03
Retail consultant and spa business expert Dori Soukup of inSPAration Management will provide information on how to use merchandising to boost retail sales. Topics include merchandise display, effective space plans, discovery stations and touch points, signage and lighting, and Point of Purchase (P.O.P.). The Day Spa Association will host an "ice cream social" for members and non-members for networking. Tickets are $25 for Day Spa Association members/$40 for guests, with ice cream social starting at 4:00PM.

Wednesday, August 18

Exhibitor Seminar: Ask the Experts - Business Strategies for Gift & Home Suppliers
8:00 - 9:00AM
Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, 1A02-03
NYIGF exhibitors are invited to bring their business-specific questions to this informal and open-forum exploration of business challenges and untapped opportunities - and leave with actionable answers and informed advice. The expert panel includes: Stu Teller and Laura Blunt of Right Angle Strategies, Adam Schrier of Whereoware and Michael Lamarti of CRAFT Marketing. Advance registrants can schedule a free 15 minute in-booth consultation by Right Angle Strategies. Tickets are $20 advance and $25 onsite.

EVENTS

Saturday, August 14

New York's Newest Welcome Reception
8:30 - 10:00AM
Pier 92
Retailers and New York's Newest exhibitors are invited to enjoy complimentary coffee and bagels and pre-show networking on opening morning, compliments of NYIGF. New York's Newest features a comprehensive collection of gift, home and lifestyle merchandise from some 200 newcomers to the New York Market.

Javits Center North Grand Opening
8:45 - 9:00AM
Javits Center North
NYIGF participants, Handmade® Designer Maker exhibitors, will celebrate the opening of the new Javits Center North with a festive ribbon cutting and champagne toast. Free for NY market participants.

Baby & Child Afternoon Snack
3:00 - 4:00PM
Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, Hall 1E
Retailers are invited to the launch of NYIGF's new Baby & Child division, and enjoy kid-friendly snacks and drinks while browsing and buying
Baby & Child's juried collection of well-designed, sophisticated and purpose-driven products for babies, toddlers and kids (through age 10) and their families. Free for all market participants.

Handmade® 25th Anniversary Celebration
5:00 - 6:00PM
Javits Center North and Javits Center Hall 1D
The 25th year of Handmade at NYIGF will be celebrated on opening day. Retailers are invited to enjoy cocktails, hosted by NYIGF, while browsing and buying Handmade Designer Maker and Handmade Global Design. Free for all market participants.

At Home Welcome Reception
5:00 - 6:00PM
Pier 94
Retailers are invited to join other market participants for an opening day At Home welcome reception, hosted by NYIGF. Complimentary wine will be offered while retailers browse and buy At Home's comprehensive collection of hard lines for the home - from contemporary to traditional and indoor to outdoor.

Sunday, August 15

59th Annual Retailer Excellence Awards, sponsored by NYIGF
6:00 - 10:00PM
NYIGF is a proud sponsor of the Retailer Excellence Awards, which recognizes excellence in retailing and individual achievement. During this festive industry gathering, 2010 finalists will be recognized, retail category winners will be announced and special recognition awards will be presented. Categories include Gift Store Design/Redesign; Marketing Achievement; Visual Merchandising/Display; and Internet Gift Retailing; as well as two categories for individual achievement: Rep of the Year and Industry Rising Star. Gift For Life, the gift and home industry's only charitable organization, will present its annual Industry Achievement Award to Randy Eller. Co-sponsored by Dallas Market Center. Nominate retailers, reps and rising stars for the 2010 REA's, or purchase tickets, which cost $150 each including cocktails and dinner, at www.giftsanddec.com.

Monday, August 16

Museum Buyer Networking Breakfast
8:30 - 10:00AM
Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, 1E04
Museum, gallery, and library store retailers are invited to join their colleagues for a complimentary breakfast. One guest will be selected at random to win $500 in merchandise credits from breakfast co-sponsors: Artobjects Unlimited, AfricaNow!, and Carolyn Forsman Conversation Piece Jewelry. Free with advance registration.

Tuesday, August 17

A Night on Broadway, featuring THE ADDAMS FAMILY
7:00 - 10:00PM
Lunt-Fontanne Theatre, 205 West 46th Street
Market participants are invited to join their colleagues at this new Broadway musical based on the offbeat family created by New Yorker cartoonist Charles Addams. This magnificently macabre new musical stars two-time Tony Award® winners Nathan Lane and Bebe Neuwirth. Tickets, normally priced at $126.50, are specially priced at $85 for NY Market participants, with the difference being absorbed by NYIGF.

AWARDS

Accent on Design® Awards
Select Accent on Design exhibitors will be recognized for design excellence in categories including individual product, complete collection and booth design. Winners are selected by the Accent on Design Selection Committee based on creativity, ingenuity, innovation, function, originality and design. Winners will be announced on Monday, August 16.

EX·TRACTS® "Best New Products" Awards
Select exhibitors will be recognized for excellence in five categories - Bath & Body, Beauty Accessory, Cosmetic & Fragrance, Natural/Organic and Packaging - along with one overall "Best of Show" distinction. Winners and finalists are selected by a panel of editors based on innovative product concept, industry need, aesthetic appeal, creative use of materials/technology and creative packaging. Winners and finalists will be announced on Tuesday, August 17.

Home Textiles Market Week "Best New Products" Awards
Select exhibitors will be recognized for excellence in four categories - Bath, Bed, Dining and Home Accessories - along with one overall "Best of Market distinction. Winners and finalists are selected by a panel of editors based on innovative design, product solution, aesthetic appeal, creativity and new material or technology. Winners and finalists will be announced on Tuesday Tuesday, August 17.

Accent on Design "Bloggers' Choice" Awards
Editors from alternative and emerging media channels will present "Bloggers' Choice Awards" to top home, gift and lifestyle products within Accent on Design. Winners will be announced on Thursday, August 19.

Eco Choice Awards
Retailers are given the opportunity to visit NYIGF's SustainAbility: design for a better living® display and cast their ballot for the best in "green" home, gift and lifestyle merchandise. The Eco Choice Awards, co-sponsored by GREENRetailer and NYIGF, will recognize retailers' top picks in three categories: Most Innovative; Most Sellable; and Most Sensitive Use of Materials. Winners will be announced at the conclusion of the summer 2010 NYIGF.

DISPLAY

SustainAbility: design for a better world®
Saturday, August 14 - Thursday, August 19
Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, North Concourse
Environmentally-conscious and socially-responsible products and producers from around the world will be showcased in a special display, curated and installed by Ilene Shaw of Shaw & Co! Productions. The exhibit will spotlight global gift and home industry suppliers whose products or production processes are eco-friendly, as well as companies whose business practices are socially responsible or fair-trade oriented.

Gift For Life Design Competition: Make Change
Saturday, August 14 - Thursday, August 19
Jacob K. Javits Convention Center
The Gift For Life Product Design Competition, themed "Making Change," will showcase unique and innovative reinventions of the iconic piggy bank in this special display. Market participants are invited to cast votes for their favorite among the top 20 finalists. Proceeds from the competition entry fees will benefit the charitable efforts of Gift For Life and its sole beneficiary, DIFFA: Design Industries Foundation Fighting AIDS, one of the largest funders of HIV/AIDS service and education programs in the U.S. www.giftforlife.com

PROMOTIONS

NY Market On The Town: Free Market Week admission to the Brooklyn Museum
Saturday, August 14 - Thursday, August 19
200 Eastern Parkway, Brooklyn, NY NY market participants are invited to visit the Brooklyn Museum at no charge during Market Week. Admission is free from August 14 through August 19 with a show badge, compliments of NYIGF, 7 West New York, 41 Madison and 230 Fifth Avenue. Current exhibitions include Andy Warhol: The Last Decade; the first museum exhibition in the U.S. of the works of American artist Andy Warhol (1928-1987); To Live Forever: Art and the Afterlife in Ancient Egypt; and more. www.brooklynmuseum.org

Take a Bigger Bite of the Big Apple!
This promotion gives NYIGF participants free access to ZAGAT.com, allowing them to search Zagat Ratings & Reviews - by cuisine, location or special features such as service, décor or "best buys" in New York City and around the globe. The free 30-day trial can be redeemed by visiting www.zagat.com/redeem and entering promotion code: NYIGF. Offer expires 8/25/2010.

NEW YORK CITY, February 1, 2010… "Focus Forward NYIGF 2013," a strategic reorganization of the New York International Gift Fair® (NYIGF®), comprising a series of considered changes to product categories and layout, was announced today by GLM. These changes, which will be implemented over the next three years, will position NYIGF as the defining marketplace for fashion-forward and design-driven home, gift and lifestyle resources.

This transformation will result in the creation of four comprehensive market collections – NYIGF Home, NYIGF Lifestyle, NYIGF Handmade and NYIGF New! – each with defined and carefully-edited product categories. NYIGF Home will encompass home furnishings, home textiles, decorative accessories, tabletop, gourmet housewares and Accent on Design; NYIGF Handmade will include designer-maker and global resources; NYIGF Lifestyle will present personal care and wellness, gift and stationery, fashion accessories and Baby + Child (a new juried category debuting in summer 2010); and NYIGF New! will feature New York's Newest. The changes are engineered to expand resources, spotlight new product and innovation to best advantage and create cross-marketing opportunities.

"This strategic reorganization will enhance NYIGF's position as the premier U.S. home, gift and lifestyle market and will strengthen show performance for buyers and exhibitors alike," said Dorothy Belshaw, NYIGF director and GLM senior vice president. "By improving category adjacencies, refining existing offerings and introducing new in-demand product categories, NYIGF will offer comprehensive and trend-forward product collections for home, lifestyle, and gift in a clear, navigable and energized layout." (NOTE: The NYIGF summer 2013 floor plan is available online at http://www.nyigf.com/Home/FocusForward2013/Summer2013Schematic.aspx).

Beginning in 2010, and culminating at the summer 2013 event, temporary and permanent NYIGF floor plan changes will align with planned construction and renovation of New York City's Jacob K. Javits Convention Center – the home of NYIGF since 1986. The transformation of the Javits Center will include installation of a new green roof – the largest of its kind in New York City; construction of the new Javits Center North which extends the building North to 40th Street; and major renovations to building systems, skylights and roof. (NOTE: Renderings of the Javits Center North are available online at http://www.nyigf.com/Home/FocusForward2013/Summer2013Schematic.aspx).

Initial changes, in effect as of summer 2010, will include: the introduction of a new juried category, Baby + Child, for upscale baby and children's products; reorganization of the existing Handmade division to more effectively define and showcase designer-maker craft and global resources categories; and the reintroduction of New York's Newest at Pier 92.

Within its new Baby + Child category, NYIGF will present a comprehensive collection of well-designed, sophisticated and purpose-driven products for babies, toddlers and kids (through age 10) and their families. The range of featured products will include arts & crafts, books, music, toys, games, puzzles, dolls and plush, gear (diaper bags, stroller accessories and feeding accessories), wearables and accessories, layette, bedding accessories & blankets. Ultimately, Baby + Child will feature some 200 companies on Level One of the convention center.

Beginning in summer 2010, NYIGF's Handmade will present two distinct categories of handcrafted merchandise: Designer Maker and Global Resources. NYIGF Handmade: Designer Maker will include some 360 designer-makers from across the United States and around the world, and Handmade: Global Resources will include some 200 imported resources featuring traditional designs and craftsmanship and Fair Trade production from around the world.

New York's Newest, showcasing companies new to the New York market, will be reintroduced to NYIGF in summer 2010. The division, which will feature some 200 newcomers to the Fair, will be housed at Pier 92.

NYIGF is the nation's premier gift, home and lifestyle marketplace, with 2,700 exhibiting companies featuring an extraordinary breadth and depth of design-driven home fashion products and complementary giftware. Some 31,000 attendees from all 50 states and more than 85 countries worldwide are expected.

In summer 2010, NYIGF runs Saturday, August 14, through Thursday, August 19, at New York City's Jacob K. Javits Convention Center and Passenger Ship Terminal Piers 92 and 94. Information and registration is available online at www.nyigf.com.

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