Housewares Show Will Feature Japan Pavilion with Exhibitors Hit Hard by Earthquake, Tsunami

February 20, 2012

When the 2012 International Home + Housewares Show opens its doors March 10-13 at McCormick Place in Chicago, there will be a Japan Pavilion for the first time that will feature 10 exhibitors who directly were impacted by the earthquake and ensuing tsunami last year.

The timing of the International Housewares Association's show has special significance since the second day of the four-day event marks the one-year anniversary of the devastating events that occurred March 11 in Japan.

The Japan Pavilion Tohoku is a special initiative by JETRO, Japan’s governmental arm for external trade, and the 10 manufacturers come from three prefectures in Northeastern Japan that were hit hardest by the earthquake and tsunami – Iwate, Miyago and Fukushima.

“Despite the scale of the disaster, all of our exhibitors have shown the courage to pick their lives back up, re-energize their companies and look to new markets,” said Atsushi Semimoto, executive director of business development and public relations at JETRO New York.

The Tohuko Region of Japan is known for its detailed craftsmanship, instead of mass-produced home goods, according to JETRO officials.

Japan also is famous for the “Mingei Movement”, which celebrates Japanese folk art and the beauty of everyday objects.

“Several of our exhibitors are venturing into the U.S. market for the first time in an effort to bring their unique products to American consumers and to revitalize their businesses,” Semimoto said.

He added, “They are eager to learn more about the market by participating in this show.”

The 10 exhibitors who are coming from the impacted prefectures represent product categories ranging from wood and lacquer creations to cast iron cookware and glassware.

“The IHA is very pleased to be cooperating with JETRO on the Japan Pavilion at the 2012 show,” said Derek Miller, IHA vice president.

He added, “Helping the people and the companies from the regions devastated by the earthquake and tsunami is a very worthwhile effort. We encourage all buying attendees at the show to visit the Japan Pavilion and support the recovery effort.”

Add new comment

Partner Voices
Overview: The award-winning Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) goes the extra mile to make every day extraordinary by offering customer service excellence and industry-leading partnerships. From their dedicated in-house Rigging team to their robust Exhibitor Services, The Center of Hospitality brings your imagination to life by helping you host unforgettable meetings and events. With more than 2 million square feet of exhibit space, world-class services and a dream destination, we are committed to making even the most ambitious conventions a reality. In October 2023, the Orange County Board of County Commissioners voted to approve allocating Tourist Development Tax funding for the $560 million Phase 5A completion of the OCCC. The Convention Way Grand Concourse project will include enhancements to the North-South Building, featuring an additional 60,000 square feet of meeting space, an 80,000- square-foot ballroom and new entry to the North-South Building along Convention Way. “We are thrilled to begin work on completing our North-South Building which will allow us to meet the growing needs of our clients,” said OCCC Executive Director Mark Tester. “As an economic driver for the community, this project will provide the Center with connectivity and meeting space to host more events and continue to infuse the local economy with new money and expanding business opportunities.” Amenities: The Center of Hospitality goes above and beyond by offering world-class customer service and industry-leading partnerships. From the largest convention center Wi-Fi network to custom LAN/WAN design, the Center takes pride in enhancing exhibitor and customer experience.  The OCCC is the exclusive provider of electricity (24-hour power at no additional cost), aerial rigging and lighting, water, natural gas and propane, compressed air, and cable TV services. Convenience The Center is at the epicenter of the destination, with an abundance of hotels, restaurants, and attractions within walking distance. Pedestrian bridges connect both buildings to more than 5,200 rooms and is within a 15-minute drive from the Orlando International Airport. The convenience of the location goes hand-in-hand with top notch service to help meet an event’s every need. Gold Key Members The OCCC’s Gold Key Members represent the best of the best when it comes to exceptional service and exclusive benefits for clients, exhibitors and guests. The Center’s Gold Key memberships with Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Orlando and Walt Disney World greatly enhance meeting planner and attendee experiences offering world-renowned venues, immersive experiences and creative resources for their events. OCCC Events: This fiscal year, the OCCC is projected to host 168 events, 1.7 million attendees, and $2.9 billion in economic impact.  The Center’s top five events during their 2022-2023 fiscal year included:  AAU Jr. National Volleyball Championships 2023 200,000 Attendees $257 Million in Economic Impact MEGACON 2023 160,000 Attendees $205 Million in Economic Impact Open Championship Series 2023 69,500 Attendees $89 Million in Economic Impact Sunshine Classic 2023 42,000 Attendees $54 Million in Economic Impact Premiere Orlando 2023 42,000 Attendees $108 Million in Economic Impact