ATLANTA – Despite unusually cold temperatures across the southeast, Atlanta Market opened its 2024 winter edition with the largest pre-show opening on record. Halfway through Tuesday – the market’s official opening day – attendance was already up 6% year over year.
Those numbers only account for the opening of the more than 1,000 permanent gift and home showrooms. The market’s temporary exhibits open Wednesday, which is historically the busiest day.
“On the heels of a strong January Market last year, we start 2024 with numbers that have far exceeded 2023’s opening,” said Bob Maricich, Andmore CEO. “There is a general feeling of excitement and enthusiasm to open the year, and Atlanta Market is only just getting started.”
The 2024 attendance numbers surpassed pre-COVID levels as the largest pre-show opening on record. Attendees from the East Coast hit double-digit gains by midday Tuesday. Core gift and home categories also experience year-over-year gains right off the bat, with an abundance of showroom appointments scheduled prior to opening day, setting up for the potential of historic success withing the first hours of market.
“Our pre-market and first-day appointments are up considerably, and we are so excited for this January Market,” said Garry Schermann, Creative Co-Op senior vice president of sales. “We’re on trend for what feels like a record show.”
Atlanta Market runs through Jan. 22, with temporary exhibits open Jan. 17-Jan. 21, at AmericasMart Atlanta.
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