High Point Premarket took place this past week, and we headed down to see what open exhibitors have in store for the upcoming High Point Market next month, Oct. 13 through Oct. 21. At last count, more than 300 exhibitors opened their doors for the unofficial event and Premarket saw busier than usual buyer attendance.
Safety guidelines were in place as they will be for next month's market with temperature checks at all main buildings (once temperature is taken, a daily colored wristband allows for moving freely throughout), sanitizing stations, lots of cleaning and available masks at front entrances. Masks were required in buildings as were occupancy limits in showrooms. Boxed lunches were available in some showrooms, and food trucks were stationed in the transportation terminal for hungry market-goers.
The exhibitors we visited were pleased with attendance and the precautions put in place to keep everyone safe.
Some showrooms were all set with new fall introductions, while others were still in progress but will be set for next month.
From a trend perspective at next month's market, as always there was a mix of styles to see. Whether its as a result of the coronavirus pandemic or just the next natural stop along the trend spectrum, in neutrals, browns are back in medium and spicy tones, and color and pattern were prevalent as well. Outdoor furniture, especially when it resembles indoor furniture, is a growing category this fall, and something consumers are looking for, as they continue to elevate their own outdoor spaces as they spend more time at home.
For the upcoming season, the largest challenge, say suppliers, will be continued supply chain disruptions that continue to delay some shipments.
Overall, Premarket was a good step back into the market environment. Large showrooms and the ability to be outdoors made High Point feel safe to check in with home furnishings exhibitors and see new product.
Check out the gallery above for a few of the launches we saw in High Point.
