Smaller Chicago fair

How this year’s fair would turn out was undoubtedly the question on the minds of both buyers and suppliers, following the decision of a number of major manufacturers not to participate in the event. Opinions were divided once the fair was over, but better than many had expected.
The National Hardware Show, in conjunction with the International Hardware Week, opened for business in Chicago from 11 to 13 August, in just two halls. The Lakeside Center (east building) remained completely unused. Even though certain big names were notable by their absence, almost 3 000 suppliers were after all represented there, 40 per cent of them from abroad.
One important function of trade fairs is to introduce new products for new customer bases. And this year the smaller, more compact fair was able to offer such a service. Proof of this was offered by a committee of dealers that tracked down more than 100 interesting products which, in the eyes of the committee members, meet the requirements of consumers and will also bring in additional sales.
20 per cent of trade visitors came to Chicago from abroad.
Many smaller manufacturers, especially firms with a broad assortment of products, regard this fair as the only possible way to present their entire range of products and develop new customer bases. Manufacturers with a well-developed distribution system seem to recognise the need for a trade fair as well, even if they have already presented their new products and concepts to their customers in advance of the event.
For their part, the fair organisers have increased their promotional efforts  in order to make their offer as attractive as possible to exhibitors, whilst reducing the cost of exhibition space as well. Hotel prices for both exhibitors and visitors were also lower this year.
William P. Farrell, president and CEO of the AHMA, or American Hardware Manufacturers Association, which sponsors and runs the International Hardware Week, is disappointed by the downsizing of the fair, though not exactly surprised, “The fair is always a reflection of market activities. Like other fairs in the country, the International Hardware Week and National Hardware Show are under increasing pressure. Over and above this, the hardware and home improvement branch is continually being reconfigured in all its various segments by means of an unparalleled number of mergers. The simple fact is that there are fewer buyers and marketers in today’s market.” Nevertheless, he is certain that the fair…