Karel Exposition Management Wraps Up Most Successful California Market In 51-Year History

Furniture World Magazine

The nation's largest producer of regional furniture and accessory markets is gearing up for an enormously successful 2004 after the completion of its largest-ever California market. Karel Exposition Management's Long Beach Furniture and Accessory Market, which took place in November at the Long Beach Convention Center, attracted more than 4,000 furniture industry buyers to the sold-out event. The market featured 1,128 booths displaying the latest looks in furniture, bedding, lighting and accessories and set the stage for the market's expansion in 2004 to a twice-yearly event. KEM has already sold nearly 700 booths for the second market, set for this spring. "This is the fastest growing market we've ever produced, but we still didn't expect such an incredible response," said Larry Karel, president of the 51-year-old family business. "In just three years, we've tripled the size of the show, and even that hasn't been enough to keep up with demand. The economy in Southern California, particularly the housing industry, is on the upswing and is projected to grow even more in the next several months. That means buyers will be even more eager to build up their inventories." Karel Exposition Management fills an important niche within the furniture industry that enables small and medium-sized furniture manufacturers and distributors to compete successfully in an age when the cost of maintaining permanent furniture showrooms has become prohibitive. The company produces furniture markets within driving distance of several major population centers, allowing exhibitors and buyers to establish contacts without incurring major travel expenses. "KEM shows allow us to stay in touch with our customers and show our new line to new customers," said Marie Kabadayan of Hi-Tech Metal Furniture Manufacturing. "Karel is one of the strongest regional markets for us." The Long Beach Furniture and Accessory Market is the largest event of its kind in California. The spring 2004 market will take place May 23, 24 and 25 at the Long Beach Convention Center, 300 E. Ocean Blvd., Long Beach, Calif. The event will be open to manufacturers, representatives, designers, furniture stores and distributors and retailers. The market is closed to the general public, and no one under 13 years of age is permitted to enter. Based in Aventura, Fla., Karel Exposition Management produces furniture and accessory markets in Tampa, Fla.; Orlando, Fla.; Edison, N.J.; Fitchburg, Mass.; Las Vegas, Nev.; and Long Beach, Calif. For more information, call (305) 792-9990 or visit www.kemexpo.com.