Stump Reports on Attendance at Spring Furniture Market Events

Charlotte, NC, May 3, 2021-Furniture industry analyst Stump issued the following report about spring market events it attended, “We kicked off our return to in person markets with the Las Vegas Market, April 11-13. We expected a 50% crowd, but what we observed was probably less than that. It was disappointing to see the empty spaces in all 3 buildings, but there was great activity and energy on the lower floors. We also liked the new welcome center, check-in process and temporary spaces in the Expo Center. 

“The clients we met with over our two days in Vegas were upbeat. Those in attendance welcomed exuberant customers (a majority of whom were west coast based) and major national Top 100 retailers who were excited to be back to market and ready to write orders. 

“Two weeks later (April 26-27) we headed to PreMarket in High Point, and again most industry players (exhibitors and attendees) were very upbeat. Similar to PreMarket last Fall, we believe this was in fact THE MARKET. Retailers were anxious to meet their suppliers again and talk about future product introductions and trends, as well as locking in product and inventory. With surging home furnishings sales growth, the industry is seizing the moment and didn’t want to wait for June - particularly given the pervasive frustrations with the supply chain, the foam crisis, container costs, and other headwinds. 

“Also of note, many exhibitors indicated they are enjoying a more regular High Point presence with their customers, via the First Tuesday initiative and other private meetings at the showrooms. One large international player is hosting customers weekly in High Point for private product introductions, followed by gourmet meals, fine wine, and team building. It is refreshing to see these high fixed cost showrooms generating traffic beyond the bi-annual weeks of market. Clearly our industry is gaining momentum for getting back to business face-to-face.”