LIVE FROM ATLANTA: Vendors say buyers are focused on restocking

July 9, 2009

by Jenny Heinzen York — Home Accents Today, 7/9/2009 7:44:00 AM

As the Atlanta Market kicked off Wednesday, the mood was upbeat and cautiously optimistic.

Vendors told Home Accents Today their customers are in need of restocking, so are coming to market this week ready to buy, but with very focused shopping lists.

Husband-and-wife retailers Ron and Rhonda Erwin were shopping in the Creative Co-Op showroom Wednesday afternoon. The couple own “competing” stores in Madison, Ga., about an hour east of Atlanta. Ron’s store carries home decor, furniture and accents, and Rhonda sells gifts, jewelry and apparel.

We’ve been here about six hours; this market we’re looking for color. With the economy and the situation we’re in, we believe people want to put a little color and fun into their lives. Has the recession bottomed out? Well, I also sell real estate so I’m basing it on the real estate market; but I also watch the foreclosure rate. The foreclosure rate in this area is starting to drop and I think that’s a sign that things may be about to change. The proof in the pudding will be over the next few months — if the foreclosure rate stays steady and things start leveling off. — Ron Erwin

What we’re up against more than anything in the last two years is competition from the big box stores. To stay competitive, one of the questions I ask my vendors is ‘what big box stores are carrying any part of your line, or something like it, or a knock off of it?’ — Rhonda Erwin

Market officials cut the ribbon on the new 14th floor of Building 1 Thursday morning. The new floor, formerly home to The Gardens, includes several showrooms showcasing more than 30,000 square feet of premium furniture, lighting and accessories.

The grand opening of the new 14th Floor is supported by several seminars and events. A new program highlighted at the July Market is the ART Retail Roundtable, sponsored by Accessories Resource Team, from 9-11 on Saturday in 14-D-9.

For other news from around the show, click here.

Posted by Susan Dickenson on July 9, 2009 | Comments (1)

July 13, 2009

In response to: LIVE FROM ATLANTA: Vendors say buyers are focused on restocking
Paige Thomas King commented:

Wes, Just returned from market myself. I'd say I was restocking, but I bought a little more than anticipated. I loved the new offerings by some of my tried-and-true vendors and loaded-up. Found a few new lines to try and brought home information from several I will likely place orders within the next weeks. I also went to attend several Americasmart University classes. I'd say it was a successful, productive trip. Have fun! Paige