THE COUNTDOWN TO FALL MARKETS BEGINS

BY JENNIFER SAMAD CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

With fall just around the corner, buzz surrounding the year’s two biggest industry events is starting to spread among rug insiders. Attracting the top high-end rug brands, both The Rug Show and COVER Connect New York (CCNY) draw crowds of discerning buyers seeking out innovation in the rug industry. Both shows will be held September 9 – 11, with The Rug Show at the Meadowlands Expo Center in Secaucus, New Jersey and CCNY returning to both NYC’s Metropolitan Pavilion and The Altman Building. With attendees flocking from around the country and globe, both shows are expected to have strong turn out this year—and for good reason. With CCNY’s vendor expansion and the addition of the exclusive Antique Pavilion at The Rug Show, these growing fall markets are not to be missed.

CCNY: What to Expect?

With its third edition on the horizon, the annual COVER Connect New York show is scaling up this fall. Perhaps the most exciting aspect of this year's show is the expansion to the Metropolitan Pavilion and the Altman Building. These two neighboring and connected venues have enabled the number of curated exhibitors to grow within one easily accessible location.

“This will allow us to add over 10 great brands who offer something new and exciting to our existing list of stellar exhibitors,” states CCNY organizer, David Young.

Returning CCNY exhibitor Ramin Zollanvari predicts that the show’s expansion will likely result in a greater turn out with a strong buyer presence.

“COVER Connect has managed to really build the show in a positive, controlled way. For those serious about rug retailing, you won’t find such an excellent variety at any other US tradeshows … and truthfully, it would be tough to find this level anywhere in Europe either!”

Embracing both positive and constructive feedback from past shows, Zollanvari has developed over 30 new exceptional rug designs that he is excited to be showcasing at this year’s market.

“We took a huge leap of faith moving ahead with the show two years ago during the latter part of the pandemic,” reflects CCNY veteran David Samad. Since then, he has watched the CCNY double in size to become one of the leading destinations for sourcing high-end rugs. “We place the September COVER Connect show as the highlight of our calendar year. We are delighted and proud to be surrounded by some of the most talented importers exhibiting the best of their imagination and vision.”

This year, Samad has increased their offerings of highly textural, mid-priced rugs that can be easily customized with shorter lead times, including the Nordic and BoHo Plus Collections.

CCNY is the spot to really feel the pulse of the rug industry. Exhibitor Ned Baker of Tamarian calls COVER Connect the quintessential trade show for hand-knotted rugs.

“I expect everyone who considers themselves relevant in the market will be there. In addition to selecting new products for their showrooms, you get a snapshot of the product in the market as a whole; what your competitors are buying, what importers are focused on, etc.”

Other show highlights include a prize draw for all registrants and, of course, the highly anticipated show afterparty sponsored by Label STEP, which will commence on the evening of September 10 with drinks and canapes. Details of the venue will be shared with visitors to the show, so stay tuned.

The Rug Show: What to Expect?

As a meeting ground for the world’s premier buyers and the most sought-after rug producers for over a decade, The Rug Show needs no introduction. Featuring over two dozen high-end brands from around the globe, this fall market consistently delivers an exquisite rug selection. This year’s show will be held at the Meadowlands Expo Center in Secaucus, New Jersey.

“It's an amazing venue that I never knew existed,” states The Rug Show organizer Peter Woodaman. With Manhattan just minutes away, buyers will find a diverse variety of products which The Rug Show is known for, along with great deals on hotels within a short walk from the venue. “We encourage all area rug retailers and buyers who have not yet experienced The Rug Show to come and see for yourself.”

Rug Show exhibitor Ori Wilbush from S&H Rugs is most looking forward to connecting with old friends and making new ones in the process.

“The product in our industry is constantly changing and evolving. As far as color, design and texture, it’s important for anyone in the field to keep updating and discovering new trends.”

What better place to experience the pulse of the industry then at one of the oldest and most recognized industry events—The Rug Show.

Rafi Amirian regards The Rug Show as an integral part of his business, Shalom Brothers.

“In our industry, multisensory experiences such as touch, feel and the likes are essential.” The Rug Show is a space that facilitates meaningful and interactive encounters with the product. “As new designs, colors and trends can change quickly, it's important for buyers to stay up to date in order to remain competitive in their market,” says Rafi. “Missing out on The Rug Show can potentially result in lost

sales to competitors who do attend.”

The non-profit organization’s main incentive has always been to strengthen the rug industry for the benefit of all involved. Exhibitor Jack Simantob of Art Resources is most looking forward to witnessing new talent and innovation from young and new rug producers, in addition to connecting with old friends.

“Since the role of retailers has shifted from a stockist to that of a service provider, knowledge of where to source the ever-varied styles, sizes and prices can only be had at trade shows and where better than The Rug Show.” With a curated selection of new and seasoned vendors all under one roof, this creates an undeniable feeling of community. “And of course, we can’t forget our party night with entertainment,” Jack shares, about arguably everyone’s favorite Rug Show moment. More details regarding this year's party will be announced nearer the show.

Registration is now open for both fall markets and can be submitted through their respective websites.

coverconnectny.com therugshow.com

Nourison, a leading manufacturer of floor coverings and home accents, has rebranded to Nourison Home As the new parent for Nourison’s portfolio of products, this change aims to better align the company's strengths with evolving consumer needs and preferences. Over the past 40+ years, Nourison’s passion for innovation allowed it to stay relevant in a rapidly changing market. Today, the company has one of the largest product catalogs and in-house inventories in the industry, offering a wide range of products including rugs, carpets, home accessories, bedding, lighting, and custom items.

To prepare for the next 40 years, Nourison conducted extensive consumer and product research while evaluating their strengths as a company. The result is a new brand that encapsulates Nourison's strengths while appealing to modern consumers.

“It’s not enough for us to just offer well-made products” said Andrew Peykar, president of Nourison. “It’s about that something extra, whether its richer texture, better materials, or design that offers more value to our customers. We are also focusing more on decreasing environmental impact and producing more sustainable products. Our products need to inspire joy and both look and feel good. That’s what Nourison Home is all about.”

To capture the essence of the company and its various product lines, the new brand adds “home” to the Nourison name. This addition adds depth and meaning. Home can mean many different things to people, such as comfort, self-expression, and security. Ultimately, home is a space that connects people with what they love.

Nourison Home will have updated visuals and messaging to help introduce the brand to new and existing customers. New digital tools will also be launched throughout the year to help make shopping for Nourison Home products easier and reduce friction across all channels. The company wants to create more connections with today’s consumer to help drive more pull-through with their retail partners.

Overall, the rebranding of Nourison to Nourison Home reflects the company’s commitment to meeting the needs of modern businesses and consumers, while also preserving the company’s passion for the history and traditions. nourison.com