NEW RESOURCES DRAW RETAILERS TO EX·TRACTS

WHITE PLAINS, NY, February 5, 2009… Despite challenging economic conditions, spa, salon and specialty retailers sought new resources at the winter edition of EX•TRACTS®, January 25-29 at New York City’s Jacob K. Javits Convention Center.  Presented as one of nine divisions of the New York International Gift Fair® (NYIGF®), EX•TRACTS offers buyers access to nearly 100 emerging and innovative suppliers of personal care, apothecary gifts and well-being products, alongside thousands of complementary home, gift and lifestyle lines offered by NYIGF exhibitors.

Drawn to the show by new and returning exhibitors, such as AHAVA North America, Booty Parlor, Ebba Los Angeles and Principessa, buyers also showed renewed interest in the “basics,” and in products with lower price points.  Many retailers relied solely on this winter market to meet their inventory restocking needs and to reinvigorate their existing merchandise mix.

“While we’ve heard that order-writing was cautious, we also know that the quality and representation of retailers was strong,” said Melissa Engongoro, EX•TRACTS sales manager. “EX•TRACTS’ unique positioning within NYIGF offers buyers convenient – and unparalleled – access to cross-category opportunities, which is a direct benefit for buyers in today’s challenging economy.”

Many exhibitors found creative ways to build their show sales in the face of the current economic downturn. “Our company has gone back to basics,” said Kristie Wilder of Baudelaire.  “We held a restocking special and gave prizes to everyone who placed an order. We’re a positive company, and tried to bring a little fun into the buying experience.”

Significant growth is planned for the summer 2009 edition of EX•TRACTS, with a 30% increase expected in exhibiting companies.  The expansion will incorporate the addition of innovative newcomers, as well as the relocation of companies from other divisions whose products include cosmetics, perfumes, skincare, bath & body care, beauty accessories, hair care, apothecary gifts, natural and organic products and well-being lines. Positioning of the expanded EX•TRACTS division adjacent to NYIGF’s At Home featuring Home Textiles division will afford valuable cross marketing opportunities for participating exhibitors.

The summer 2009 edition of EX•TRACTS will take place Sunday, August 16, through Thursday, August 20, 2009, at New York City’s Jacob K. Javits Convention Center.  Additional information and registration is available online at www.extractsny.com.