SHANGHAI - The Interior Lifestyle China (IFC) 2017 was held on September 14, and saw a total of 23,108 visitors from 44 countries and regions, nearly an eight percent rise from 2016 (21,420).
Held at the Shanghai Exhibition Center, an iconic building in the center of the city, 395 companies from 19 countries and regions took part as exhibitors, a three percent increase from 2016 (384).
“What is most important to us was the continuing increase in the quality of buyers,” said Wendy Wen, senior general manager. “This firmly places [IFC] as the most effective trade event in China for the mid- to high-end consumer goods market, especially for overseas brands that are looking to enter the Chinese market.”
A prevalence of buyers from online retailers and platforms was present at this year’s fair confirming a strong demand for overseas brands in the country, a continuing trend in the Chinese market.
With this year’s fair being themed, Retail 4.0, the fringe program, with expectations to inspire and educate the industry, hosted a number of events and zones that focused on the customer experience with regard to the retail space and the way consumers shop on- and off-line.
The fair is also considered a gathering place for the industry to come together to gain inspiration and stay ahead of the latest trends. Gatherers included some of China’s preeminent designers, such as Ben Wu, founder of W. Design & W+S Design Group.
“Interior Lifestyle China has been improving each year,” said Wu. “It focuses more on products that are used in daily life, and emphasizes the functions and details of these products which match the tastes of Chinese people.”
Next year’s fair is planned for September 13 – 15, 2018 at the Shanghai Exhibition Center.
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