News

Implementation of Phase Two of a three-year strategic reorganization of the New York International Gift Fair (NYIGF) begins in August 2011 with integration of the Gourmet Housewares Show into NYIGF, the addition of new product-focused “neighborhoods” in several divisions and continued refinement of existing categories.

A full schedule of seminars, special events, displays and promotions are among other highlights of the summer market, which runs Aug. 13-18 at New York City’s Jacob K. Javits Convention Center and Passenger Ship Terminal Piers 92 and 94.

“Through ‘Focus Forward 2013,’ NYIGF continues to transform and strategically reorganize to become the defining marketplace for fashion-forward, design-driven home, gift and lifestyle resources,” said Dorothy Belshaw, NYIGF director and GLM senior vice president. “The first time integration of The Gourmet Housewares Show will exponentially increase and complement the breadth and depth of resources for buyers, and a series of enhancements to other divisions will dramatically facilitate sourcing and shopping for buyers.”

Among enhancements planned for summer 2011 is the addition of a new “On Trend neighborhood” and expansion of the existing “Stationery & Publishing” neighborhood within NYIGF’s General Gift division; the expansion of the existing “Handmade Jewelry” neighborhood in Personal Accessories; and launch of a new “Artisan Jewelry Showcase” within New York’s Newest.

Throughout market week, nearly 30 educational seminars and social events will offer added value for market participants. Sessions will cover current trends in social media, sustainability and color; as well as visual merchandising, fair trade, marketing and retail strategies. After-hours industry and networking functions include the 60th Annual Retailer Excellence Awards on Sunday, Aug. 14, and NYIGF’s popular “Night on Broadway” on Tuesday, Aug. 16.

NYIGF is continuing to utilize technology to streamline the registration process and make it easier to get information before, during and after the Fair. For the first time this summer, online registration will be open throughout the Fair, with free “early bird” rates offered to qualified buyers through Aug. 12. NYIGF is also launching a new mobile application that allows more streamlined and intuitive access to the NYIGF.com search features.

For more information, visit www.nyigf.com.