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CNBC/NRF Retail Monitor: April sales grew as consumers stocked up ahead of tariffs

Retail sales grew in April as many consumers moved up buying to avoid higher prices expected to come with tariffs, according to the CNBC/NRF Retail Monitor, powered by Affinity Solutions, released by the National Retail Federation (NRF). “Spending rose again in April, driven largely by consumer... READ MORE »

7 HKTDC mega events attract 100,000 global buyers

The seven large-scale trade events organized by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), covering lifestyle products and licensing opportunities, concluded on April 30 with buyer numbers increasing across all exhibitions and some 100,000 buyers from 131 countries and regions attending for on... READ MORE »

Mother’s Day spending expected to reach $34.1 billion

Consumer spending on Mother’s Day is expected to reach $34.1 billion this year, according to the annual survey released by the National Retail Federation (NRF) and Prosper Insights & Analytics. The amount is up from last year’s $33.5 billion and follows closely behind the record of $35.7 bil... READ MORE »

Autumn Fair returns to the NEC Birmingham

Autumn Fair returns to the NEC Birmingham from Sept. 7–10, offering retailers a key opportunity to refresh their product ranges ahead of the peak shopping season. The 2024 edition saw a 34% rise in new, high-calibre buyers, and following this success, the show is expanding with 10% more floor s... READ MORE »

Las Vegas Market Summer 2025 presents dynamic mix of gift, home temporaries

The Gift & Home Temporary Exhibits at Las Vegas Market showcase more than 400 standout brands in six easy-to-navigate categories, offering buyers direct access to must-have products and emerging trends at the Expo at World Market Center Las Vegas, July 27-30. [caption id="attachment_93275" al... READ MORE »

Dallas Market Center launches anti-tariff initiative

Dallas Market Center unveiled a new initiative to support Main Street retailers: “Stand With Main Street. Turn Off Tariffs.” The core message of the campaign is to advocate for a 90-day pause on all tariffs between the U.S. and China, allowing for the free flow of goods critical to the upcomi... READ MORE »

Photo courtesy of Barque Gifts.

Industry leaders say tariffs threaten to cancel Halloween and cripple Christmas

U.S. costume and toy companies are sounding the alarm that newly proposed tariffs on Chinese imports could wipe out Halloween and severely disrupt Christmas unless urgent action is taken. With production already underway and orders locked in, businesses are scrambling to find ways to get products in... READ MORE »

Heart on Main Street donates over $20,000 to independent retailers, launches giving initiative

Heart on Main Street announced a new round of donations totaling over $20,000 to independent retailers in need and launched a new national program designed to foster community support across the retail industry. [caption id="attachment_29808" align="alignright" width="300"] J. Gabriel Living in W... READ MORE »

*Noted Expo co-location with Las Vegas Market marks new era for stationery industry

*Noted: The Greeting Card Expo will make its Las Vegas Market debut at the July 27-31 buying event, as North America’s leading greeting card showcase. The sold-out showcase features some 50 members displaying the best new greeting cards, stationery and more this Summer at World Market Center Las V... READ MORE »

Pen Paper Palooza to debut in Los Angeles

Los Angeles, California, will soon host its first-ever festival dedicated to the love of pens, notebooks, calligraphy and creative expression. Pen Paper Palooza, a two-day celebration of all things stationery, will take place May 16–17 at the historic Santa Monica Bay Woman’s Club. Created by... READ MORE »

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