How Did It Go?

From beautiful new uplifting colors and patterns, to innovative items that answer travel security and comfort needs, to improving the old and bringing out the new -- The Travel Goods Show 2003 had it all!

Although two weeks had passed since the closing of the Travel Goods Show 2003, the retailers we spoke with were so full of upbeat optimism over their experience at the Show that I found myself making my own personal "must-have" list. Some like Jill McAlpine of Travel Bag & Baggage, Carmel, CA voiced sheer enthusiasm: "I enjoyed the show so much! When Steve and I walk into a booth and see a product with a new twist or a whole new idea, we get so excited -- and we saw a lot to get excited about this year." Her observation was supported by the comments of many retailers like Fred Silverman of Flite Luggage, Chicago, IL, who made reference to the "overall optimism and upbeat attitude" of the Show. This positive outlook is no small matter considering that keeping inventories fresh and giving customers a reason to come to their stores are uppermost in the minds of retailers. "With this business you always have to have a sense of urgency and be alert to your competition," says Walt Hillmer of Hillmers Luggage, Topeka, KS. "It takes a lot of innovation, new ideas, and fresh strategies to keep going, so I was very excited about the broad selection of product at the Travel Goods Show."

Other retailers who attended this year's show were also happy to see that travel goods manufacturers are accepting the challenge of travel in the 21st century. "We were very pleased with the new products at this year's show," says Peter Cobb of eBags, Englewood, CO. "We saw a focus on women's luggage prints and fabrics, features to make airport security inspections quicker, and casual/sporty designs and styling." And as Douglas Frankel of Travelers Shoppes, Cleveland, OH, points out, "It's hard for manufacturers to bring a lot of fresh product, but I thought they did a pretty good job this year. This is the only time of the year that you can see all the products together. I wouldn't miss it." One retailer who almost missed the Show was glad she had a change of heart. "I am so glad I went," says Cheryl Hughes of Nicholas Luggage & Gifts, Kansas City, MO. "It's the best way to see what's new. If I had not come, I would not have found all these great new products."

But make no mistake: retailers were seeing red in 2003 - and blue and lavender, and orange and lime green and... As Sandy Siegler, of Lyndhurst Luggage, Lyndhurst, OH, says, "I was thrilled to see more color. Luggage has been pretty boring for a long time." And he is not the only one feeling this way. "I was happy with all the color and new fabrics," enthused Loree Odee of Leathers N' Treasures, Grass Valley, CA. "I agree with those that say we are sick of just black, black and more black. Travel Goods are going to be exciting, innovative, and something that people want to look at!"