A four-day schedule of educational sessions and special events will be offered during Artisan Resource, a market offering U.S.-based importers, direct import retailers and wholesalers the opportunity to meet with international artisanal producers.
The semiannual event takes place Aug. 18-20 at Passenger Ship Terminal Pier 94 in New York, and runs concurrently with NY NOW (formerly NYIGF).
“These programs are designed to orient Artisan Resource exhibitors to U.S. market trends, etiquette and opportunities while also providing Artisan Resource attendees with basic importing dos and don’ts,” said Allison Rober, Artisan Resource sales manager. “Artisan Resource participants also can enjoy networking activities during the show, as well as after-hours events that showcase some of New York City’s best attractions.”
The Artisan Resource exhibitor programming begins pre-show on Aug. 17, with a full day of free sessions on topics ranging from U.S. trade-show etiquette, “story selling,” product development, and color and design trends.
During the show, attendees can participate in daily free “Importing 101” seminars, which provide an overview of international business relationships, and the logistics, vocabulary and responsibilities of both exporters and importers. Sessions are presented Aug. 18-20 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Pier 94.
On Aug. 20, the Alliance for Artisans, a new membership-based organization dedicated to strengthening and promoting the international artisan sector, will host “Growing the Market for Artisan & Global Handmade Products.” The session, which runs 12 noon to 1 p.m. at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, will address issues and opportunities connected with buying and selling global handmade products from around the world, and with marketing these cultures and traditions to U.S. consumers. Panelists will include representatives from Wal-Mart, Indego Africa, West Elm and Mercado Global. Tickets, which cost $20 in advance and $25 on-site, are available here for purchase online.
An opening-day “welcome reception is scheduled for Aug. 18 at Pier 94. Artisan Resource participants can also participate in the extensive seminar series and social events offered at NY NOW.
NY NOW will run Aug. 17-21 at New York’s Jacob K. Javits Convention Center and Passenger Ship Terminal Pier 94.
