Summer Rug Market Review - Aug/Sep 2011

By Jessica Chevalier

Following a winter market that was somewhat stymied by a snow and ice storm in Atlanta, exhibitors were optimistic about the 2011 summer market, many reporting that their appointment books were full. A glance down the mart’s hallways seemed to tell a different story, with generally only a few individuals milling down the long stretches (most searching for a cell signal), but, as we’ve seen at nearly every show during and since the downturn, the customers in attendance traveled there intending to do business, which accounts for the full appointment books. Those that might have wandered around looking rather than buying didn’t spend the money to make the trip.

Introductions at this season’s show were generally kept to a minimum—often to a handful of lines. Many exhibitors had done their major roll-outs at the High Point Market in April and were simply re-introducing the products here. In fact, Dalyn had no introductions at the Atlanta show, reporting that it was holding off until High Point’s October market. Karastan was another manufacturer with few introductions; the company is rolling out its latest products when it opens its new Las Vegas showroom this month.

There were several notable style trends. Pairings of greys, browns, blues and greens were everywhere. Greys range from pale smokes to charcoal. Browns spanned the gamut as well, from chocolates to tans to rust tones. Greens were generally mossy and light, rather than deep leafy green or forest green. Oranges were peeking in as accents, as were reds like raspberry and other tones that pair well with brown.

Patchwork or paneling looks were popular. Oriental Weavers had some, as did Momeni. Since patchwork looks use remnant rug pieces (or replicate that look), they may have the allure of a perceived green story. The looks also make a good transitional approach, since they often contain traditional style elements, but in a deconstructed form.,,"
http://www.floordaily.net/FloorFocus/Summer_Rug_Market_Review__AugSep_2011.aspx