Twice a year, this newsletter puts the spotlight on trade shows, just as the season is kicking off. Everybody knows about the big-city shows: Las Vegas, Dallas, Atlanta, New York, Chicago, etc., but there are a variety of niche shows staged by trade associations. In this semi-annual trade show special issue, we take a look at some examples of association shows.
AETA and WESA shows in Dallas focus on equestrian products
Making “Specialty” Special
The Specialty Food Association (SFA) stages The Fancy Food Show in New York during the summer (June 23-25, 2024) and in Las Vegas during the winter (January 19-21, 2025), which includes an awards gala. The association also publishes “Specialty Food” magazine. Membership is geared toward vendors who exhibit at the shows.
If western and rural lifestyle is your focus, the AETA International Trade Show, from the American Equestrian Trade Association (AETA), may be for you. AETA’s show is the premier global event showcasing equestrian industry products from leading manufacturers. It takes place two times a year and is a “twofer” because it is coincides with the International Western & English Apparel & Equipment Trade Shows, from the Western & English Sales Association (WESA). Together these shows create the world’s largest marketplace of equestrian, western and rural lifestyle brands. By registering and attending an AETA Trade Show at Dallas Market Center, you receive a complimentary AETA Membership.
New York’s 41 Madison is the site of the Tabletop Association show.
International Fashion Jewelry and Accessory Group (IFJAG) is an association of manufacturers, importers and sales representatives in the fashion jewelry accessory & gift industries. The organization is member-owned & not for profit. The goals of the organization include sponsoring trade shows in appropriate locations for its members & their customers at minimum cost. IFJAG stages two shows: Las Vegas (Aug. 17-20) and Orlando (Oct. 21-23)
In spring (this past April, 2024) and fall (Oct. 18-21), the Tabletop Association hosts The New York Tabletop Show. Featured categories include china, crystal, dinnerware, flatware, glassware, hotelware, lighting, luxury gift, housewares, objet d’art and bespoke pieces. Membership is open to exhibitors in the industry.
Cutting the ribbon to open the 118th Toy Fair.
A Long Tradition Continues
Toy Fair, an iconic global event, is the show for The Toy Association. In September, 2023 it had its 118th show. It remains a premier showcase for the toy and play industry, attracting professionals from around the world in search of the latest products and play experiences. After being disrupted by COVID, Toy Fair is returning to its traditional spring schedule (March 1-4, 2025).
It’s In The Details…
There are more, of course. Details about a host of international shows as well as specialty shows like those above can always be found at the GiftsWholesale.Com Trade Shows page.
