This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Trends Display at the Canadian Home Furnishings Market that will run from January 9 to 12, 2010 at the International Centre in Mississauga. For the past ten years, André Caron and Pierre D'Anjou — two presentation design gurus — have put their knowledge of trends to great use by creating ingenious displays that position furniture at the centre of attention.
Brilliant design-sense aside, there’s been an educational component to this activity since its inception — to inspire retailers to create display windows and in-store presentations that are not only more appealing to consumers, but also more relevant to the shopping experience. The current economic context is changing the retail environment and the way consumers shop, so knowing how to create an effective display window or in-store presentation goes a long way towards creating the excitement that entices consumers to buy. In fact, all you need to get started are a few proven tricks of the trade.
In store, furniture that is devoid of context will lack appeal and won’t have an impact on the consumer. Creating a strong presentation means giving furniture its full potential and the power to attract consumers. A picture is worth a thousand words; a well-presented product is practically a guaranteed sale.
You need to create a visual centre point — it’s an absolute must — but that doesn’t necessarily mean placing the product in the middle of the display. In any good window display, the centre point is that critical space with the perfect balance between shapes, colours, lighting and accessories—the focal point our eyes are drawn to.
More and more retailers are starting to grasp the importance of their in-store presentation. And many now understand that it’s a powerful promotional tool at par with other business initiatives. They’ve even started hiring professional stylists to help them out. Retailers at the Toronto Market are eager to see the Trends Display; it’s become quite the attraction!
This year, our two designers have designed a new architectural concept. They will create seven large elevated platforms that help create fifteen or so different themes. Decorative divisions on podiums will help divide the displays. Each division will be personalized with panels offering different layouts that create an illusion of depth. Colours, textures, and materials will be used to give each display its own unique signature look.
Retailers and exhibitors are invited to the official launch of 2010 Trends Display at 6 p.m. on Saturday, January 9 at the inaugural cocktail party in the heart of Hall 5 at the International Centre.