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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.

Experience the newly renovated Omni Chicago – A luxury hotel located on Michigan Avenue

Book now and enjoy: - A low rate of $199 rate (+ tax) after a $11 million renovation - Experience the all-suite, luxury property during the Show - Located on Chicago’s famous Magnificent Mile Book You Discounted Room at Omni Chicago The only all-suite luxury accommodations on Michigan Avenue are now even better — located in the heart of the city, the beloved Omni Chicago…

Informing Innovation: An Interview with Aaron Ferber, IDEO

IDEO (pronounced “eye-dee-oh”) is an award-winning global design firm that takes a human-centered, design-based approach to helping organizations in the public and private sectors innovate and grow. The Palo Alto-based firm currently maintains 5 studios in the U.S., two in Europe and three in Asia. IDEO was ranked as one of the most innovative companies in the world by business…

Informing Innovation: An Interview with Susan Yashinsky, Sphere Trending

By Vicki Matranga Design Programs Coordinator As a vice-president and innovation predictor for Sphere Trending, Susan Yashinsky works to infuse an understanding of macro trends occurring within society with retail experience to bring innovative insights for GAP opportunities for products, services and client growth. Yashinsky, who joined the trend forecasting company in 2002,…

Informing Innovation: An Interview with Bryce Rutter, Metaphase Design Group

By Vicki Matranga Design Programs Coordinator Dr. Rutter is a renowned specialist in ergonomic product design and the leading expert in the design of handheld products. He has been profiled by the Wall Street Journal, CNN, and The Chicago Tribune. The Toronto Globe & Mail, Lexus magazine and Metropolis. He been awarded 100+ patents and his company has received 75+…

Informing Innovation: An Interview with Naomi Shedden, Trend Bible

By Vicki Matranga Design Programs Coordinator Trend Bible is a UK-based trend agency dedicated to home and interiors. The firm works with global brands to predict and capitalize on future changes affecting their consumers. Trend Bible produces a series of industry-specific trend and insight publications and crafts bespoke consultancy services for individual clients. As…

Informing Innovation: An Interview with Perry James, The NPD Group

By Vicki Matranga Design Programs Coordinator Since 2013, Perry James is president of U.S hardlines at The NPD Group, the category which encompasses the automotive aftermarket, home, office supplies and toys businesses. In an earlier role, he was president of the home and office supplies division which he successfully launched in 2007. James is responsible for all aspects of…

Trends: Fresh food appeals to younger shoppers

How consumers eat has a direct impact on kitchenware stores, who strive to sell those consumers the tools they need for their cooking adventures. For instance, if shoppers favor easy-cook frozen meals, microwaves top their shopping lists. However, a study by The NPD Group finds that consumers, especially younger consumers, are turning to fresh fruits and vegetables more than…

Brand Licensing in the Housewares Market

By Vicki Matranga Design Programs Coordinator Informing Innovation: An Interview with Jessica Blue, Advanstar and Stu Seltzer, Seltzer Licensing Jessica Blue is vice president of Licensing Expo, which is owned by UBM Advanstar. She is responsible for the strategic planning, growth, sales and day-to-day management of the annual Licensing Expo. Now in its 35th year, Licensing…

JW Marriott Chicago Makes Its Debut in Housewares’ Official Housing Block

- A low, introductory rate of $194 + tax for the 2016 International Home + Housewares Show. - Earn Marriott points by booking your stay at the JW Marriott Chicago. - Located in the heart of the Historical Theatre District, walking distance to famous State Street shopping and restaurants. - Enjoy $5 appetizers and cocktails Monday - Friday from 5-7 pm in the Lobby…