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MISSISSAUGA, ONTARIO – Several Canadian suppliers of home and gift merchandise are working together to open permanent showrooms at the International Centre in Mississauga, Ontario.
“We’re excited to be part of a destination for buyers across the country – where they can visit year-round to connect with leading vendors, all in one convenient location,” said Jody Abbott, general manager of the Abbott Collection.
The grouping, that will be knowns as Show T.O. will soon open with the first eight agencies and distributions opening permanent showrooms with more than 40,000-squaer-feet dedicated to servicing Canadian retailers and design professionals.
Tom Taylor explains: “Auralim wants to give retailers access to new products every day of the year, and that requires a permanent showroom,” said Tom Taylor, Auralim president. “We are going to be there when our reps and customers need us, on their own timetable – exciting times ahead for the gift industry.”
Each company is working with its own design firm to showcase its brands. In addition, many of the showrooms will feature hospitality areas that invite customers to recharge.
Breaking away from the constrictions and limitations of biannual gift shows, pop-up showrooms and roadshows, David Youngson explains, “Having a permanent showroom allows us to be more creative with merchandising and displays,” said David Youngson, founder and president of DYA Company. “It also allows us to showcase new brands and product releases added to our roster throughout the year.”
The companies participating include Abbott, Auralim, Canadian Gift Concept, David Youngson & Associates, Edenborough, Group One Associates, North American Country Home and Torre & Tagus.
For retail buyers, this news represents a long-overdue pivot recognizing today’s buyers’ habits, according to the companies.
A soft opening of the new Show T.O. is scheduled for July with an official celebration taking place later in the year.
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