On the first anniversary of the grand opening of Building 2 WestWing (B2WW) and debut of the redefined and relocated product centers, AmericasMart celebrates the evolution of the Gourmet/Housewares category this January. Strategically positioned on floor 8 of B2WW, the product center has become a vital destination for the gourmet, housewares and gift industries.

The most recognized growth within the product center is housewares, as major industry players like All-Clad, Krups, Le Creuset, Nordic Ware, OXO, Riedel, Stonewall Kitchen and Viking have secured permanent spots. Currently, there are more than 250 housewares and gourmet lines on the floor with the state-of-the-art Food Network-inspired demonstration kitchen at the center. Supporting the permanent product center is the dynamic gourmet temporary collection with nearly 150 companies spanning almost 200 booths -- featuring an estimated 500 lines -- within its own exhibit hall in B2WW, floor 2.

The product center and its impressive kitchen have ignited exhibitor excitement and participation while attracting retailers from across the nation. Now, exhibitors have the opportunity to host events and demos in the kitchen. Moreover, its capabilities enable AmericasMart to feature celebrity chefs like Tyler Florence, Alton Brown, local food icons and more.

The January 2010 gourmet/housewares featured event lineup includes:
• Bon Appetit! A Tribute to Julia Child
Presented by Chef Virginia Willis
Discover Virginia Willis as she shares cooking expertise and exceptional stories about her personal experiences with Julia Child.
Building 2 WestWing, floor 8, Demonstration Kitchen
Thursday, Jan. 7
11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

• From the Farm to the Table
Presented by Chef Shaun Doty, owner of Shaun's
Chef Shaun Doty will prepare a seasonally inspired menu featuring Southern fare.
Building 2 WestWing, floor 8, Demonstration Kitchen
Thursday, Jan. 7
3-4 p.m.

• Tyler's Ultimate: Brilliant Simple Food to Make Anytime
Presented by Tyler Florence
Tyler Florence is back, and he is whipping up items from his latest restaurant, Wayfare Tavern in the financial district of San Francisco. Menu items to include Sauteed Pacific Halibut, Monterey Calamari and Ricotta Dumplings with Chanterelle mushrooms. Book signing to immediately follow.
Building 2 WestWing, floor 8, Demonstration Kitchen
Friday, Jan. 8
Noon-1:30 p.m.

• Science: It's What's for Dinner
Presented by Alton Brown, star of "Good Eats"
Alton Brown blends food and science to bring some exciting twists on some familiar favorites. Using a variety of gadgets and gizmos, Brown mixes up treats for both the eyes and the mind!
Building 2 WestWing, floor 8, Demonstration Kitchen
Saturday, Jan. 9
12:30-1:30 p.m.

• Alton Brown Meet & Greet and Book Signing
Building 2 WestWing, floor 8, Demonstration Kitchen
Sunday, Jan. 10
10:30-11:30 a.m.

Dozens of other gourmet events presented by AmericasMart and the product center exhibitors will also take place during Market. For a complete listing, reference the Market magazine, Buyers Guide, upon arrival or online at http://www.americasmart.com/markets/giftrug/january_2010_events/gourmet_kitchen_demonstrations/.