Thursday, February 3, 2011

Toronto Gift Show



Just back from the winter Gift Show hosted by the Canadian Gift & Tableware Association (CGTA) at the Toronto International Centre. With over 1,000 exhibitors and almost 17,000 retail buyers in attendance, it's Canada's largest, one-stop business buying event. Thank goodness for comfortable shoes! Featuring tons of great new home decor, tabletop, housewares, gourmet food, garden accessories, collectibles, stationery, bed and linen products, there is literally, something for everyone. Lots of fresh inspiration served daily at the show - and in line with fashion trends, it was so nice to see so much more colour this year, taking over the usual black and white, silver and bling schemes of past shows.

Special features of the show include the New Product Galleries show, showcasing everything from everyday essentials to trendy new products, the Kitchen Spotlight, a demo kitchen of new housewares and tabletop items, and Showcase Canada, a collection of Canadian designed and manufactured products. The show also offers business seminars and workshops hosted by industry experts. From business strategies and trade secrets, to merchandising tips for the upcoming season, it was great show all around.