Karel Exposition Management Moves Popular Furniture Trade Show From Worcester To Fitchburg, Mass.

Furniture World Magazine

Karel Exposition Management (KEM), the nation's largest producer of regional furniture and accessory markets, has announced that the company's annual trade show in New England will now take place in Fitchburg, Mass. Due to popular demand, the show will be moved from the Centrum Centre in Worcester, Mass. to Fitchburg's Royal Plaza Trade Center and will take place on September 22-23-24, 2002. "The industry has spoken and we have listened," said KEM president Larry Karel. "Numerous people have told us that Fitchburg is a better location for our New England show because it provides easy accessibility to buyers from Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont - and that's what we are here for, to listen to our buyers and sellers and to provide regional trade shows that match their needs." The Fitchburg Furniture and Accessory Market will showcase the latest trends in traditional furniture, lighting, bedding and accessories. "We expect a very early sellout for this year's new Fitchburg show and space assignments have begun," explains Karel. "The response from those who are already aware of the location change has been overwhelming." KEM regional markets have become more popular in recent months because manufacturers and buyers have been less inclined to fly since the September 11 tragedy. Consumers are also staying close to home and taking their vacation money and using it to furnish their nest. This trend has U.S. home furnishing industry is on the upswing. "Because the furniture and accessory markets are located 'close to home,' buyers and store owners can drive to the show rather than get on a plane," said Karel. "The markets are actually helping these retailers succeed in today's economy because they make it possible for many retailers to shop for companies in their own backyard. The shows also allow small manufacturers to exhibit their product in an affordable manner and grow their business." Karel said the company's shows are specifically designed to fill an important niche for retailers and manufacturers who don't have the time or money to go to the major furniture markets. "That's why when the industry informs us that one location is better than the other we jump on it immediately and make the change." Aventura-based Karel Exposition Management, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary, is coming off of one of its best years ever and has waiting lists for many of its upcoming summer and winter shows. KEM recently announced a new market in Tampa, Florida. Another sign of the firm's success is the expansion of the November 24-25-26, 2002, show in Long Beach, Calif. which will have more than 800 exhibitor booths in two adjoining halls, compared with about 500 booths for the 2001 show. Karel's largest show, the Orlando Furniture & Accessories Market is also increasing from 1,300 to 1,500 exhibitor spaces. This show will be held August 23-24-25, 2002, in Orlando, Fla.