Daily News
From Home Furnishing Business
IMC Reports Focused Buyers and High Demand at Las Vegas Market
September 3,
2020 by Laurie Northington in Business Strategy, Industry 
During this week’s summer Las Vegas Market, the International Market Centers (IMC) has reported 40% of showrooms open with a 20% attendance year-over-year. 43 states are represented with 76% from Western U.S and interior designer attendance is particularly strong.
IMC has prioritized safety with temp checks, social distance signs, and mask ambassadors on hand to monitor and remind people to maintain protocols. “We will spare no expense to operate safely and securely. We are not taking any chances,” said Bob Maricich, CEO of IMC.
Armed with appointments, buyers came to the Las Vegas Market focused on placing orders and inventory ready to ship was a main priority. “I fully intended to be here to purchase because we need products. We knew it was time to come, see what’s here and get things moving because lead times are a little slower across the board. Our season on the West Coast is starting and Las Vegas Market is the first step to being prepared,” said Ginger Stroup of Patio Paradise in San Bernandino, Calif.
“It’s just extremely efficient and focused so I’m able to get a lot more accomplished in a shorter amount of time. I’m actually buying more than I ever have and it’s the busiest I’ve ever been,” said Cindy Levine of Intrigue, Design by Cindy LLC in Park City, Utah.
Through the LVMKT.com Exhibitor Directory, sourcing and buying continues beyond market. The site now includes enhanced search and filter features, 675,000+ SKUs, nearly 60 3D showroom tours, 270+ ShopZio-enabled exhibitors, and links to other proprietary B2B sites. IMC also introduced Juniper, the company’s new brand identity for its full suite of digital tools.
A dedicated landing page will be launched at the close of market with 25+ Summer Market webinars available on demand, video tours from Market, Market snapshot and other product spotlights and transaction links. ShopZio, powered by IMC_di, has 400+ brands, 1.3 MM SKUs available for purchase, and 400% sales growth over the last four months.
The Expo at World Market Center Las Vegas, IMC’s new 315,000-square-foot exposition facility, is finished and was able to house a spread out registration this week. As planning for January Market continues, the Expo Center will be utilized to incorporate all safety protocols.