With a multitude of safety measures in place, High Point Market 2020 wrapped up its nine-day run in North Carolina to largely positive reviews from attendees and exhibitors. 

Some 70 percent of exhibitor showrooms were open for the event, according to show organizers, including a number of kitchen, bath and lighting showrooms. 

The biannual trade show typically attracts tens of thousands of retailers, interior designers and service providers from more than 100 countries. Faced with a pandemic, it was no surprise that the event saw reduced attendance over its extended nine-day run, including the loss of its international audience.

Final registration numbers were not available at press time, but early reports showed registration numbers tracking at approximately 55% of the Fall 2019 registration numbers of buyer companies, according to show organizers. However, exhibitors reported a high quality of traffic and “more serious buyers,” while many attendees expressed relief that the event was still able to take place.

“We knew this Market would be different, but we also knew both buyers and sellers were counting on us to open since home furnishings sales are so strong right now. High Point is where they wanted to be,” commented Tom Conley, President and CEO of the High Point Market Authority.

The Spring Market, scheduled for June 5-9, 2021, is expected to return to its typical five-day structure, with registration opening in late January. For more information, visit www.highpointmarket.org.