Happy New Year! And what a way to start the year. The Atlanta International Gift & Home Furnishings Market (January 8–16) was buzzing with buyers and happy vendors. We might be hearing of a weak economy and that retail is suffering, but that was not the case at this market. At a retail luncheon of the top 25 Gifted Retailers hosted by Gifts & Decorative Accessories, shop owners had nothing but positive things to say about their businesses, leaving us a little baffled — and quite thrilled — to hear that they’re doing so well. Vendors reported 40 percent and some even 100 percent increases from last market. That doesn’t sound weak to us.

And there were plenty of new products to choose from; lots of fun new items and collections including Canned Goods from Design Ideas. The company purchases cans intended for fruits and vegetables and fills them with paper clips, push pins, rubber bands and more. Design Ideas created its own unique labels and is offering 24 different brands. Another fun new item was a set of wind-up walking robots from Atomic Soda, a line of mostly stationery being imported from Europe. They are an updated take on the smaller tin toys from the mid-20th century, with an edgier look created by young designers.

Some of the trends spotted at this market included shades of blue and green. These tranquil hues were found on decorative accessories as well as fashion accents. Toile is also making a comeback, as many vendors offered accents with pastoral scenes in shades of blue, red and green. And peacocks are coming in to play after having been spotted on the fashion runways.

Market is always a great place to get display ideas. Each market, it seems that manufacturers are getting more and more creative with their displays — we saw more than a few that wowed us. Take a look at how products are merchandised, and use some of these fresh ideas in your own store displays. Who knows, you may be inspired to do something completely new!

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Blue-Green
Shades of blue and green were spotted throughout the market. The soft hues were more tranquil than vibrant and could be seen together or alone.
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Burton + Burton

Tied to Their Apron Strings
The apron trend continues and branches out into whimsical, elegant and holiday niches; there are even designs targeted to the grandparent, the Southerner, or the inspirational shopper. And look out for the cute appeal of mini versions for mom-and-kid cooking.
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Contain Yourself
Candles in containers don’t just offer a choice of glass sizes and shapes any more: now ceramics and metal accents are getting in on the act. These are containers consumers will keep long after the candle’s burned out.
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