Craft Focus - June/July 2024 (Issue 103)

23 SHOWS & EVENTS  This season’s most unmissable events Shows, news & events h+h americas 2024 sets new records The third edition of h+h americas confirmed its status as the fastest growing US event for the handicraft industry. A record number of 3,831 professionals from 36 countries and all 50 US states ventured to Rosemont to source the latest crafts products from 402 vendors, increasing exhibitor participation by 50 per cent compared to the previous year. Attendees consisted of major retailers such as Michaels, JOANN Fabrics, Hobby Lobby, Blick Art Materials as well as store owners from all across North and South America and Europe. Combined social media engagement reached 17 million viewers based on data provided by attending content creators. The event featured some 120 educational events among them a Fashion Show and a first time ‘Cosplay contest’ providing interaction with artists, creators and enthusiasts on stage. All educational sessions such as the Opening Keynote, Masterclasses and Conference Programmes reached maximum attendance. “We couldn’t be any happier since the show floor was buzzing with energy and exhibitors reported excellent results. Our exhibitor and attendee numbers have set new records again and all major players in the craft business are now participating in our event. A special thank you to our partners who worked tirelessly on creating content especially our conference partner, the Craft Industry Alliance,” said Mette Petersen, President and Managing Director of Koelnmesse Inc. “A big shout out to our loyal exhibitors, the show team and all those who have been working behind the scenes to deliver another successful event! We are proud to be the organizers of two h+h events on each side of the Atlantic for the handicraft industry in Rosemont/Chicago and Cologne. This year also marks a major milestone for our company as Koelnmesse GmbH is celebrating its 100th birthday,” said Gerald Böse, President and CEO of Koelnmesse GmbH. “As the weeks went by leading up to this year’s show, the excitement on social media was palpable,” said Craft Industry Alliance President Abby Glassenberg. “h+h americas is exactly what our industry needed. A time to come together, in person, to reconnect, get inspired, and form new partnerships. As the trade association for the industry, we are so proud and grateful to be part of this show!” “This year’s event has not only showcased the latest trends in yarn, fabric, and sewing materials but also brought together a vibrant community of creators, exhibitors and attendees from across the globe. We’re delighted about the continued support and enthusiasm of all our partners, sponsors and participants and we can’t wait to see what the future holds for h+h americas.” added Darrin Stern, h+h americas Show Director. Diary dates Home & Gift 21st -24th July, 2024 Harrogate Convention Centre https://homeandgift.co.uk NY Now 4th – 7th August, 2024 Javits Centre, NYC https://nynow.com Scotland Trade Fair Autumn 18th-19th August 2024 SEC, Glasgow www.scotlandstradefairs.com Autumn Fair 1st - 4th September, 2024 Birmingham NEC www.autumnfair.com Top Drawer 8th – 10th September, 2024 Olympia, London www.topdrawer.co.uk Gifts & Lifestyle Middle East 12th – 14th November, 2024 Dubai World Trade Centre https://gifts-lifestyle-middleeast.ae.messefrankfurt.com Harrogate Christmas & Gift 12th-15th January, 2025 Harrogate Convention Centre www.harrogatefair.com

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