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IHA’s blog features informative posts written to keep the housewares industry educated and informed about key strategic issues and IHA member services.

Global Retail Intelligence – December 2016

To follow is a brief review of retail news from around the world: December 1 - When it comes to shopping, Canadians just aren’t clicking as only 2% of sales are made online While bricks and mortar retailers remain justifiably panicked about losing sales to digital-only ecommerce players like Amazon, it still comes as a surprise to learn that online sales account for just…

Global Experts to Discuss International Lifestyle Trends at the 2017 Show

From homewares and small appliances to home interiors and retail merchandising, international lifestyle trends will be the focus of several presentations in the Innovation Theater at the 2017 International Home + Housewares Show. The 2017 Show will be held March 18 to 21 at Chicago’s McCormick Place complex. More than 20 sessions will be offered in the Innovation Theater…

IHSA Issues A Rebate

The past twelve months will be remembered as one of the most tumultuous times that the shipping industry has ever faced. Freight rates reached historical lows which sent ocean carrier profits spiraling downward. Shifting carrier alliances and carrier consolidation added to the uneasiness shippers were feeling in the shipping industry. The uneasiness reached its peak on August…

Experience All That the Embassy Suites Magnificent Mile Has to Offer!

Book now and enjoy these additional incentives: - Newest all-suite AAA 4-Diamond hotel in Chicago. - Early Bird Rates starting at $169 + tax for the 2017 International Home + Housewares Show. - Complimentary cooked-to-order breakfast and Evening Reception* included in overnight rate for all guests. - All rooms are 2-room suites, featuring parlor with pull-out…

November Currency Outlook

Tempus, an exchange rate and global payments company, evaluated the current state of currency in their November Currency Outlook. Overall, the USD is poised to strengthen with a December rate hike. The market has now factored in a 92% likelihood of a rate hike. The Tempus traders completed their November Currency report just prior to the election, but the view is, regardless…

Coffee Perks Up Sales

Retailers say that coffee-making products are helping to caffeinate their top lines as more consumers attempt to make their special brew at home. And in a reverse move from Nobel laureate Bob Dylan going electric at the Newport Jazz Festival, consumers and retailers are unplugging their machines. Sales of pour-over cones, borosilicate glass containers, vacuum brewers, burr…

The Holiday Inn Chicago Mart Plaza River North, A Full-Service Hotel with Spectacular Views!

Book now and enjoy these additional incentives: Book early and enjoy a special rate of $150 per night. Rates increase January 1st. Additional 1,000 IHG Rewards Points, if booked before January 1st. Receive a complimentary drink in Cityscape Bar. Complimentary Wifi in guestrooms. $39 overnight parking with in and out parking privileges. Book Your Discounted…

IHA Members Meet with Key Australian & New Zealand Buyers

Six IHA member companies participated in the IHA Trade Mission to Sydney and Auckland, October 30 – November 4 to develop sales opportunities in Australia and New Zealand. The participating IHA members, Astage, Candle Warmers, Honey-Can-Do, Hutzler Mfg., Nordic Ware and Whitmor, met with key home and housewares retailers and toured retail stores to learn more about how…

Export 101: Understanding Exchange Rates

When conducting international business, it is important to take historical, current and forecasted exchange rates into account. It’s also very important to determine the specific currency in which a transaction will be priced. This decision will determine potential risks and rewards as exchange rates fluctuate. As an example, US Company A sells their Product for US$1,…