DALLAS – Dallas Market Center opened the summer show season with retailer optimism and steady order writing across the marketing during this month’s show. The show welcomed thousands of independent retail decision markets from coast to coast and internationally as well as a large number of major retailers and buying groups, said Dallas Market Center.
“We were extremely pleased with the show given the shifting economic and global trade conditions,” said Cindy Morris, president and CEO of Dallas Market Center. “Not only did retailers arrive in force but they were optimistic and eager to place orders especially with exhibitors who had in-stock items or new products. The consistent message we heard from exhibitors was that the show ‘exceeded their expectations.’ We have worked hard to stand with retail, oppose tariffs, and promote the in-person market experience as the best opportunity to have conversations, make informed decisions, and discover products that will make a difference for their business.”
Attendance included a large number of buyers who had never attended market in Dallas. Additionally, a number of high-volume buyers and key buying groups attended the show and walked the aisles to discover new products.
First-timers included Buff City Soaps, Hallmark Corporate, and Pottery Barn. Returning were Norman’s Hallmark, Buc-ee’s, Wal Mart, Von Maur, Dillard’s, Furniture Mall, NFM, Brookshire Grocery / Reasor’s, Choctaw Casino, Hom Furniture, Big Cedar Lodge, The Paper Store, Winstar Casino & Spa, Mardel, United Supermarkets, Hobby Lobby, Tyler’s, HEB Grocery, Neiman Marcus, Michael’s, Gelson Markets, At Home, Container Store, and Omni Hotel.
Buying groups included ASTRA Toy, The Good Toy Group (TGTG), Monograms America (MAI), HTI: Housewares Training and Information, GC: Gourmet Catalog, Museum Store Association, NAFDMA: North American Farmers Direct, SWBG: Southwest Buying Group, Wild Birds Unlimited, and ZAG Zoo, Garden & Aquariums. A highlight this year is the return of Purchasing Power Plus (PPP), back onsite for the first time in a decade—a strong win-back and a valuable addition to the market lineup.
