Karel trade show returning to Orlando in 2013

Furniture Today Staff -- Furniture Today, November 30, 2012

ORLANDO, Fla. — Karel Exposition Management says it will return to the Orlando area next year for the first time since 2010 to produce the 77th Central Florida Furniture & Accessory Market, Aug. 11-12.

The trade show, produced in association with the Florida Home Furnishings Representatives Assn. and the Florida Assn. of Furniture Manufacturers, will be in the Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, Fla., a new venue.

It will feature more than 300 spaces of merchandise and is expected to attract buyers from Florida and the Caribbean, according to Larry Karel, president of Karel Exposition Management. Among the companies that have committed to participating are Stanley Chair, Five Star Mattress, Sea Winds Trading, Carlton Mfg., Dixie Bedding/King Koil, Pelican Reef, Trade Wind Treasures, Charlotte International Trade and Grako International.

"We feel positive about the country and the economy. This show will be a bonanza for buyers and sellers across the state of Florida," Karel said.

He said KEM has already sold nearly one third of the space, and other companies are reviewing the floor layout to secure their spaces.

"People love our shows since they are only a vehicle ride away, no costly housing, food or transportation," Karel said.

The show will be in Osceola Heritage Park's exhibition building, halls A and B, at 1901 Chief Osceola Trail in Kissimmee. Hours will be 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday and Monday, Aug. 11-12.