All Posts

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

Carriers Struggle to Maintain Rate Stability

After collectively losing $5 billion in 2016, the carriers are collectively poised to return to profitability for 2017. The anxiety that shippers experienced in 2016 regarding bankruptcies and acquisitions is no longer dominating the headlines. While stability is welcome news for the industry, there are concerns about whether the carriers will be able to sustain stability.…

Stats: Holiday Shopping Predictions

Is the fourth quarter going to bring coal or toys to retailers this year? With an uptick in the economy improving consumer confidence and a 3.2 percent rise in the incomes of middle class Americans, (as reported by the U.S. census bureau in August), signs are good that retailers are on track to get toys in their stockings. Or at least some cash. According to research…

2018 Trends in Coatings for Cookware, Bakeware and Small Electrics

IHA checked in with Fran Groesbeck and Suzie Eberhardt at Whitford Corporation to get an update on trends in coatings for cookware, bakeware and small electrics that they will discuss in their presentation at the 2018 International Home + Housewares Show. At the Show, the Innovation Theater will feature 21 presentations over four days. Topics discussed will include smart home,…

Sofitel Chicago: Showcasing High Design and International Brand

Book now and enjoy these additional benefits and incentives: 10% off in restaurant and bar outlets Waived $12 amenity fee which includes premium Wi-Fi, unlimited local and long distance calls within the continental United States, access to 2,700 newspapers and magazines from around the globe with PressReader, 24 hour access to the fitness center, and morning coffee and…

Path to Purchase Around the World: How Consumers Shop for Homewares

IHA tracked down Erika Sirimanne of Euromonitor’s Singapore office to learn about her presentation that will address global shopping behaviors at the 2018 International Home + Housewares Show. At the Show, the Innovation Theater will feature 21 presentations over four days. Topics discussed will include smart home, consumer shopping preferences, branding and global market…

Trends: I-Generation Rocks Black Friday

Of all the shoppers expected to be looking for deals this upcoming holiday season, younger consumers are the most likely to shop in stores on Black Friday. That’s according to a report from Mintel that interviewed 18-22-year-old shoppers (part of the so-called I-Generation of 10-22 years of age) and found that 42 percent are most likely to be in stores on Black Friday, more…

House Considering Tax Reform, Manufacturers / Consumer Goods Suppliers Must Engage

Bold tax reform is making its way through Congress thanks to the efforts of manufacturers and consumer goods suppliers making their voices heard. Following last week’s 24-16 vote of approval from the House Ways & Means Committee, a House floor vote on tax reform is imminent this week. Last week, suppliers let committee members know that tax reform was a priority, but now…

Fermentation Bubbles as Trend

Brooklyn, N.Y. —home to the artisanal pickle set—should also be the hot bed of home fermentation, but retailers in that city are split about whether they see a trend out there. “Unfortunately, it never caught on here,” says Jennifer Baron, owner of A Cook’s Companion on Atlantic Avenue. “Maybe I was too ahead of things, but Brooklyn Kitchen has been very successful. However,…

The New American Dream! Millennials Buying Homes!

IHA caught up with Marsha Everton and Whitney Ryan from the AIMsights Group to learn about their latest research that they will present at the 2018 International Home + Housewares Show. At the Show, the Innovation Theater will feature 21 presentations over four days. Topics discussed will include smart home, consumer shopping preferences, branding and global market…