Market Report: Chicago

There are big doings at the Chicago Market: Living and Giving. The biggest news is the Merchandise Mart's decision to revamp two of the four floors (12–15) that comprised the permanent gift showrooms.

The first big change is the unveiling of Market Square on floor 15, a hybrid concept which combines high-end gift, decorative accessories and home accents vendors with an increased furnishings presence. The goal, which the Mart calls “the bridge to luxury design,” is a set of resources open to both retailers and interior designers, particularly for everyday, between-market traffic. A ribbon-cutting on Friday morning was followed by an evening launch party.

As showrooms located elsewhere that fit the Market Square mission move up to 15, some expanding in the process, the general gift showrooms currently on 15 are relocating down to floors 13 and 14. Notable Market Square exhibitors include OneCoast, CBK and Kenneth Ludwig Home Furnishings Ltd.

Gifts & Decorative Accessories caught up with Ludwig the morning after the party, and he told us “last night was very successful, exceeded my expectations” for sales in his much-expanded space. Some “people were scared, [asking] why is it so much furniture,” he said, “but we still have gifts, and there was a need for the designers and the more lifestyle retailer, too.” Ludwig says he doesn't expect his gift customers to purchase a $4,000 sofa; he simply wanted to “create one look” in his showroom, “and let people pick and choose what they need out of it.”

As part of the revamping process, Merchandise Mart Properties Inc. (MMPI) intends to redevelop floor 12 into market-time showrooms. an intermediate form of exhibit similar to the second floor of the MMPI-owned L.A. Mart. This will provide exhibitors with a more high-end looking exhibit space at market.

For the complete Chicago gift show report, visit www.giftsanddec.com and click on “Direct From Market.”