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Not too many years ago, I could confidently stroll through store after store, quickly identify what was new, where its pricing was situated, estimate retailer margins that usually drove initial placement, what the packaging tried to imply, and make solid guesses as to the longevity and success probability. »

Thousands of retailers made their way to San Francisco¿s Moscone Center for the 30th Winter Fancy Food Show this past January. Eager to catch a glimpse of the latest specialty and gourmet foods, they crowded the aisles to taste samplings of everything from teas and coffees, sauces and salad dressings, to assorted confections.  »

Culinary trends, fashion runways, and high-tech introductions will come together to shape the kitchens of tomorrow. As we've just wrapped up the first quarter of trade shows, designers and consumer gurus are predicting what shoppers will be reaching for in the coming months. »

Wood warms up any environment. From a culinary scene in the kitchen to an elaborate table setting, the introduction of a woodenware product to the picture provides an element that softens the landscape by connecting it to nature. »

Market analysts have been warning retailers and vendors for the past year that mid-priced products are facing a challenge from consumers. Concurrent with this challenge is an expected growth in lower-priced selections, as well as an increase in high-quality specialty products. While it's great news for specialty gourmet retailers, you still have to be prepared to explain the difference between the highs and lows to illustrate to consumers why the products you offer are better than those at the discount store down the road. »

Consumers don't often fully appreciate the well-loved foodstuffs on their table. That's because most of them have never lived or even visited the source of these foodstuffs -- the farm.  »

George Little Management (GLM) made a valiant effort to provide retailers and manufacturers with a fall housewares show October 8¿11. And although the reviews were mixed, the show did provide a healthy opportunity for new markets and product introductions.  »