Philadelphia National Candy, Gift & Gourmet Show and Philadelphia Gift Show Set to Collocate in 2016
October 7, 2015
Urban Expositions and the Retail Confectioners Association of Philadelphia (RCAP) have decided two is better than one and will collocate their shows next year.
As part of the arrangement, the RCAP's Philadelphia National Candy, Gift & Gourmet Show (Jan. 9-11) formerly held in Atlantic City, will move to the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks, Penn. to run alongside Urban Expositions' Philadelphia Gift Show (Jan. 8-11).
Urban and the RCAP will each operate its respective show independently - utilizing one cohesive floorplan at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center to ensure seamless access between each event, according to show organizers.
"We've had a number of conversations with the RCAP board members over the years, exploring possible collocation opportunities and everything came together for Winter 2016," said Doug Miller, CEO, Urban Expositions.
He added, "Both parties see tremendous benefits to showing together. Our complementary product offerings, coupled with our similar retail buyer profiles, open the doors to countless new business opportunities for everyone."
Paul Esposito, president of the RCAP and owner, Victoria's Candies, said that the show moved from the Valley Forge/Montgomery County area of suburban Philadelphia to Atlantic City in 2006, and now back to Philadelphia.
"There is great synergy between our well-established events,” he added. “The expanded selection, plus the significant travel savings and easy accessibility the Oaks location offer, are added bonuses for our audience."
Held semi-annually at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center, the all-category Philadelphia Gift Show attracts gift retailers from throughout the Mid-Atlantic and Tri-State regions who come to explore the latest introductions and best-selling designs from the region's leading sales agencies, top name manufacturers, emerging companies and local artisans.
These exhibitors showcase everything from giftware, souvenirs and novelties to home décor, fashion accessories, garden products and more.
As the nation's largest show dedicated to the retail confectioner, the semi-annual Philadelphia National Candy, Gift and Gourmet Show attracts specialty retailers, wholesalers and manufacturers seeking the latest offerings in the category, including candy, chocolate and gourmet specialties to candy-making equipment, packaging and plush items.
"Collocating with the Philadelphia Candy, Gourmet & Gift Show promises to add a new level of excitement to the Philadelphia Gift Show," said Dean Russo, show director, Philadelphia Gift Show.
He added, "Buyers from both events will appreciate the opportunity to explore an expanded selection that definitely offers ways to refresh and enhance their own store mix and exhibitors will certainly welcome the chance to reach new retail audiences. It's definitely a win-win."
Partner Voices
MGM Resorts is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse culture, not just among employees and guests but also within its supply chain. The company prioritizes procuring goods and services from businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans, people with disabilities, LGBTQ individuals and those facing economic disadvantages. This commitment is integral to MGM Resorts' global procurement strategy.
Through its voluntary supplier diversity program, MGM Resorts actively identifies and connects certified diverse-owned suppliers to opportunities within its supply chain. The company is on track to spend at least 15% of its biddable procurement with diverse-owned businesses by 2025, demonstrating that supplier diversity is not only a social responsibility but also a strategic business imperative.
Supplier diversity isn’t just the right thing to do – it’s good for business. A diverse supply chain allows access to a broader range of perspectives and experience, helping to drive innovation, entrepreneurship and resilience, while strengthening communities. At MGM Resorts, engaging diverse suppliers ensures best-in-class experiences for guests and clients. Supplier diversity ensures a more resilient supply chain while supporting economic development in the communities in which it operates.
The impact of MGM Resorts' supplier diversity initiatives is significant. In 2023, these efforts supported over 3,500 jobs across more than 30 states, contributed over $214 million in income for diverse-owned businesses and generated more than $62 million in tax revenue. The story extends beyond the numbers – it reflects the tangible benefits brought to small and diverse-owned businesses, fostering economic empowerment in their communities.
MGM Resorts also supports the development and business skills of diverse-owned businesses through investment, mentorship and education. Through the MGM Resorts Supplier Diversity Mentorship Program, the company identifies, mentors and develops diverse-owned businesses to fill its future pipeline, while providing businesses with tools and resources to empower and uplift. Since 2017, the program has successfully graduated 105 diverse-owned businesses and is on track to achieve its goal of 150 graduates by 2025.
MGM Resorts’ commitment to supplier diversity not only enhances its business operations but also plays a crucial role in uplifting communities and fostering economic development. This approach reinforces the idea that diversity is a powerful driver of innovation and resilience, benefiting both the company and the wider community.
Add new comment