I hope you had an informative and productive summer show season and that you found lots of great product for your shop. As you’re making plans for the fourth quarter, be sure to check out all the new products we’ve gathered for you in this Last Call for Christmas issue.  The economic news is getting better, and that along with what I’ve read is “frugality fatigue” could spell good news for the holiday season.

There was some positive news from the shows. Although attendance was down, people who were there were there to buy. I saw that in Chicago showrooms as reps walked around with retailers entering orders. I have to admit I like going to shows, standing around incognito and picking up bits and pieces of retailers’ conversations as they decide what to buy.

Several manufacturers I talked to were optimistic about the second half of year. Ohio Wholesale Inc. just opened a new permanent showroom in Chicago’s Mart. A rep from Roman told me that the company is expanding its line of retro musical television set home décor pieces. Several rep groups have added additional showroom space and increased lines. Fashion accessories — jewelry, scarves, bags, etc. continue to be the hot categories in the Temporaries. It’s the theory that we’ve all read time and time again; if women can’t buy new clothes, at least they can buy accessories to change their look.  All these things point to a greener fourth.

We also saw an upbeat attitude in New York. Pamela Graves, editorial director at Talcott Publishing, led some lively new buyer orientation sessions. Ashley Trent was in New York for the show as well and reports there was real excitement about new designs and products. Ashley served as a judge for the Ex-Tracts Best New Product Competition and is taking a look at candles and personal care this month. And it happens that some of Ex-Tracts winners are included. Candles and personal care continue to be strong categories and make perfect holiday gifts.

Also in the issue, Mary is highlighting inspirational pieces that have a more contemporary flair. Again a great category for now and into the fourth quarter. Stephanie will bring you stylish travel pieces for all ages and giftware to wear. And I’ll round up some men’s gift ideas that are sure to be appreciated by your customers.

Last, but not least, Mary, Ashley and I will be off to Las Vegas for the ABC Kids Expo, September 13-16. Our sister magazine, Baby & Kids, is producing the official show dailies. there are still a few shows left, so check out our Shows section and think about attending a fall show to round out your assortment. And to keep up with the latest, sign up for our e-weekly at www.giftwarenews.com.

See you next month-
Barbara Wujcik
Editorial Coordinator