The world renowned IHGF Delhi Fair, with its 2,596 exhibitors, regional exhibitions, craft demonstrations, ramp shows, seminars, workshops and a host of supporting events, has concluded its 53rd edition the 3rd April 2022. A large number of buyers and purchasing representatives from 92 countries attended the five-day show. All activities collectively pointed to common feelings of reassurance, optimism, happiness, courage, and most importantly, resilience.
As a major step towards normalcy, this edition was a full-fledged physical fair after its previous pre-run in October 2021. The fair was held at India Expo Center & Mart, Delhi-NCR, India.
Although the organizers took every precaution and put in place testing and health facilities, including isolation at the site itself, there was not even a single Covid alarm or any health issues. related reported, even though on average more than 10,000 people attended the fair. daytime.
This edition included 14 exhibition sectors, spread over 14 halls and 900 permanent showrooms, bringing together a comprehensive resource for home, lifestyle, fashion, textiles and furniture with housewares, furnishings, furniture, gifts and decoration, lamps and lighting, Christmas and festive decoration, jewelry and fashion accessories, spa and wellness, rugs and carpets, bathroom accessories, garden accessories, toys and educational games , handmade paper and stationery products and leather bags.
Buyers from America, European countries and the Middle East were the majority, while there were also some from Asia, Africa and other regions. Pitch sourcing has boosted the morale of exhibitors, buyers, organizers and all artisans and actors linked to the value chain.
While travel restrictions eased just before the start of the show, the turnout and attitude of buyers encouraged regular and first-time exhibitors alike, including new companies just venturing into the sector. Shoppers were happy to be able to “get on a plane, travel, and land for in-person hookups while seeing that everyone is doing well.” Some buyers shared that the pandemic has given them time to re-evaluate business proposals, focus on new product development with suppliers, and seek out new businesses at IHGF’s virtual trade shows that received hands-on guidance. thanks to the meetings of this edition.
Buyers were happy to be back to stock up. Sustainability continued to be front and center as many sought out eco-friendly and compliant ranges in home and lifestyle products. Some said they liked the ‘raw’ and ‘natural’ look and their suppliers at the fair this time offered more options in repurposed scrap materials and derivatives taken from nature. European shoppers sought out interesting regular-use bags as alternatives to plastics, among other home products. Many selected basketry and household items made from jute, hemp, coarse river grass, cane and bamboo, etc. The exhibitors at the fair were also sustainability-minded and surprised buyers with numerous possibilities.
MRK Malhotra, President of EPCH, said: “Our buyers were delighted to see that we share the global concern to preserve the environment. Dr Rakesh Kumar, Managing Director of EPCH and President of IEML, said: “While many India-based manufacturers have taken decisive steps to be socially and environmentally responsible and compliant, and are certified, there are artisans and grassroots manufacturers whose business model is fundamentally about sustainability. We are bringing them to the fore through this show. Mr. RK Verma, Executive Director of EPCH, said: “During the In recent years, a large number of buyers and sellers have depended on the IHGF Delhi Fair for the procurement and supply of products that appeal to consumers in global markets and are readily available salable.Therefore, the organization success of this physical show was essential for many, exhibitors and buyers.”
The transition from unparalleled Indian craft traditions to adapt to a modern world with its ever-changing spaces and lifestyles that are yet grounded in inspirations from the past and ingrained values, has been among the fascinations here. The next edition of the show will be held at the same location from October 14and at 18and2022.
Registration link for the next show: https://www.ihgfdelhifair.in/register
Major Commodity Groups at IHGF Delhi Fair
Home Textiles and Furnishings | Furniture & Accessories | Gifts & Decoration | Household and utility items for the home | Lamps & Lighting | Rugs, carpets and floor coverings | Christmas and party decoration | Handmade paper, Gift wrapping | Spa & Wellness | Candles, Incense & Potpourri | Bathroom accessories | Lawn and Garden Ornaments | Jewelery and fashion accessories | Leather bags and cases
About the Handicrafts Export Promotion Council
The IHGF Delhi fair is organized twice a year in the spring and autumn editions, by the Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH), the umbrella organization representing handicrafts manufacturers and exporters in India . EPCH empowers its 10,000+ members to customize and deliver unique styles and quality products to the global sourcing community. Apart from providing unparalleled business platforms to buyers and sellers, EPCH also provides comprehensive industry insights to international buyers and ensures an optimal interface between the Indian handicraft industry and international buyers, facilitating business harmonious.
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