Where have all the buyers gone?
By Carole Sloan -- Furniture Today, February 17, 2002
The first round of this year's market cycle essentially has been completed, both in this country and overseas, although we're right on the doorstep of the Tupelo show. In all, it's clear there's been a dramatic difference this year compared to markets of recent years.
Almost universally, people are talking about drops in attendance at these shows, and not just shows for furniture and fabrics but for housewares, apparel, electronics — everything that has to do with consumer products and retailing in general.
One obvious reason for the attendance drop is simple: There are fewer retailers now than there were at this time last year.
Just think of the retailers who no longer exist compared with early 2001 or late 2000, then add those who are operating under Chapter 11 protection and thus are limiting their market forays, plus those who have been acquired by other retailers.
Also underlying the drop in attendance is another basic. The past decade saw a sharp increase in the number of people per buying group, as well as in the number of companies attending markets.
The first element had to do with bringing people to markets as perks, for education and/or for plain socializing. The second element involved companies with expanded travel budgets, and employees who naturally asked, "Why don't I check out this show; maybe I'm missing something." Many people also assumed that if the travel money wasn't used, it would disappear.
Well, those parties certainly are over.
Travel budgets have been slashed, and exhibitors and retailers in all product categories are looking at markets with a sharp, analytical eye, challenging their role, frequency and venues, and looking for other ways to communicate in the buyer/seller relationship.
-
Brazil show reports record attendance
May 15, 2012 -
Product flows at Singapore fair
Apr 5, 2010 -
Premarket draws more dealers
Mar 29, 2012 -
Best Vegas show in years
Feb 22, 2012
VIEW ALL GALLERIES
