International Market Centers (IMC) is expanding its First Look trend forecasting program to encompass both of its winter gift and home product markets.
“With the expansion to Atlanta Market, First Look becomes the first of its kind – an actionable nationwide trend program that gives buyers the tools to source must-have products in real time,” said Dorothy Belshaw, IMC executive vice president, chief customer and marketing officer.
First Look is set to explore three trends at each of the two Winter 2023 markets: one shared national trend and two trends unique to the east and west coast markets, according to IMC.
The national trend to be shared across both markets is Amplify, showcasing products that express societal, cultural and lifestyle with written words, badges, messages, motifs and symbols.
Trends specific to Atlanta Market are:
- Care – Products that reflect devotion to family and friends, environmental responsibility and healthful living.
- Explore – Products inspired by travel destinations, favorite pastimes and acquisition of new skills.
The two trends specific to Las Vegas Market are:
- Nuance – Products that present neutral and/or contrasting tones and finishes.
- Venture – Products, include those blending Lodge and Southwest-flourishes, that inspire and are inspired by on-the-go adventure.
First Look East and First Look West will include pre-market and at-market presentations by Nine Muses Media’s Julie Smith Vincenti, of a trend expert and former magazine editor. The First Look East seminar is slated for Tuesday, January 10 at 2 p.m. at Atlanta Market. A First Look West pre-market webinar is set for Tuesday, January 18, 2023, at 1 p.m. PT; and an at-market seminar is set for Monday, January 24 at 1:30 PT during Las Vegas Market.
Smith Vincenti said, “IMC’s unique positioning with both east coast and west coast markets provides the opportunity for First Look to consider how regional differences impact styles and tastes while discovering the macro influences that unite American consumers.”
