Larry Karel, president of Aventura, Fla.-based Karel Exposition Management, producer of regional furniture and accessory markets, will launch the inaugural Philadelphia Furniture and Accessory Market. next May.

The event will run May 17-18, 2009, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days, at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center at Oaks.

“We are expecting a sellout and the buyer attendance should be similar to our Edison, New Jersey markets with heavy attendance,” Karel said. “The reaction to this new show has been fantastic.” The Philadelphia Furniture and Accessory Market, open to furniture dealers, is sponsored by the Tri-State Home Furnishings Association and the Mid-Atlantic Home Furnishings Association.

“This should be a great beginning, what with a new facility, as well as expanded participant base, reaching into as yet untouched regional market areas,” said Cathy Reed, executive director of association. “This is an opportunity to show actual product to many retailers and designers that don't attend the markets far from home.”