By Vicki Matranga
Design Programs + Services
Get to know the people behind the stylish products that will appear at the 2014
International Home + Housewares Show in Discover Design. We’ll be posting conversations with exhibitors to give you a glimpse of the inspirations, influences
and ideas that go into creating the exciting products that you’ll see in March at McCormick Place.
Bedol International Group, Inc., established in 1987, began by designing products for Day-Timer, Day Runner and Filofax that enhanced and accessorized organizers and binders. The company later developed and designed checkbook wallets and checkbook calculators, as well as travel products and tabletop/desk accessories. Through the years the Bedol brand has been available in such retailers as FAO Schwartz, Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus.
Today we are speaking with Mark Bedol, the founder of California-based Bedol®.
Mark, where do you find inspiration when designing new products?
We look at market needs and opportunities, especially in the eco/green sector of the market.
How do you choose which idea to take to the next step — to product development?
We develop products when we think the concept has a market and the design is sound.
Is there an approach or look that joins the functionality, form or emotional appeal of your product line?
We like products that are new, fun, a little retro at times.
Where are your products manufactured?
We make our products in China.
How do you see design’s importance in our industry as it moves forward?
I see the true acceptance of good design as being a work in progress.
If the market will support some increases in prices, then design will improve.
This will be your first International Home + Housewares Show. How do you think Discover Design will help you build your brand?
We hope it will enable us to be viewed by a large number of key buyers in the marketplace. We traditionally do well when we are able to find the correct buyers for our products.
Can you give us a preview of what you will be showing in your booth in Discover Design?
We will be featuring The Bedol Water Clock. It’s a clock that is powered by ordinary tap water, never needs batteries or electricity. It can work for six months or more before the water needs to be changed. It’s an environmentally friendly product. Our technology and designs are very exciting. The Water Clock is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint.
Thank you, Mark, for introducing us to your company. We look forward to hosting you in March at Discover Design and wish you great success.
Visit Bedol® in Discover Design in booth S4380. Learn more about Bedol’s travel products, clocks, organizers and desk accessories at
Discover Design is the premier design destination at the International Home + Housewares Show. Located in the South Building, the invitation-only category features more than 100 exhibitors from around the world. Companies driven by innovation and design present distinctive products and collections in Tabletop, Gift, Textiles and Home Décor categories. The Discover Design Gallery, accessible to buyers and media, features select products that are entries in the Global Innovation Award (gia) for Design. Learn more about Discover Design exhibitors and their products by checking Housewares Connect 365 at
