Page 329 - AmericasMart: Market Magazine July 2017

TABLETOP AND GIFT/GOURMET & HOUSEWARES
Gen Z. Millenial. No matter the designation,
if today’s consumer has an anthem, it’s “I Gotta Be Me.” Their focus on creativity
and comfort is inspiring innovations from tabletop’s heritage brands to meet the wants and needs of new generations
of shoppers.
BOWLS ARE THE NEW PLATES
“Casual comfort is important” says
Rich Brinkman, Marketing director,
for mix and match pioneer Fiesta.
Fiesta Dinnerware’s 38-ounce Bistro Bowl is a top seller. The large bowl is ideal for crockpot recipes, vegetables and pasta at table, and comfortable to hold when eating on the deck or watching TV.
With 17 colors, plus new Daffodil coming in June, pieces offer limitless color stories. Overall, customers want freedom to choose pieces that work best for them.
“Our customers have a genuine desire for well designed, durable products, but they must fit their lifestyle,” Brinkman says.
GLITZ AND GLAM,
BUT FULLY FUNCTIONAL
Adding formal touches to the casual
table is on trend. “We have patterns with microwaveable gold accents for a table that’s fun and pretty. It’s an everyday look with a splash of gold – like pairing jeans with a glittery top,” says Sherri Crisenberry, vice president, Lenox Brand,
Lenox Corporation.
Watercolor is another strong influence. Designs with painterly, watercolor effects are soothing, with lots of blues for the table. Lenox’s new initial dinnerware provides “that uniqueness that customers are looking for,” Crisenberry says. “We did it first on fine china, but will be introducing a casual chip resistant pattern that can be microwaved. It’s very practical, but can still be personalized.”
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