For children, summer can't last long enough, but for adults, "back-to-school" rolls around surpisingly quickly. This year predictions are that in-store shopping will decline while online shopping will increase. Consumers are cautiously pessimistic about the general state of the economy in coming months.
A survey by Deloitte found that back-to-school spending will likely remain flat this year, with parents looking for value, cautious about their financial future. The survey found parents plan to spend an average of $557 per child, $13.00 less than last year; a 6% drop adjusted for inflation.
Mass Merchants such as Walmart and Target were mentioned as the favored destination by consumers, with online retailers next followed by warehouse membership clubs and department stores.
Online shoppers are expected to spend an average of $614, while the prediction is that the average in-store spend will be $521.
The majority of survey respondents, 57%, say they expect the economy to get worse in coming months, the highest percentage since 2020. Many also planning to delay their spending to the last minute, so the peak is expected late July to early August.
“While many parents are willing to do all they can to help set their children up for success, financial concerns are leading them to sharpen their budgets,” Natalie Martini, vice chair and U.S. retail and consumer products sector leader at Deloitte, said in a statement. “Cautious spending behavior exists across income groups, but value-seekers demonstrate that it’s not always about the cost — some consumers are willing to spend if they find value in the purchase. At the same time, there’s often a sense of nostalgia about back-to-school that can impact how and when parents spend. Retailers who lean into these dynamics may be more likely to see success throughout the season.”
Quick Industry News
TRADE SHOW NEWS
Atlanta Market Sees Fewer Buyers Than Winter Show
This summer the Atlanta Market, which is "always" in July, was instead in June to avoid conflict with the World Cup soccer tournament. Atlanta is one of the sites from June 15 through July 15. Many vendors reported fewer buyers and Warren Shoulberg wrote "By the highly unscientific measurements of elevator wait times, lines at the Chick-fil-A, and how long it took to get a drink at the Westin Peachtree Plaza lobby bar at happy hour, it was clear that there were simply fewer people at the show." He also makes the point that it seems summer shows are more poorly attended compared to winter shows as a rule.
While Dallas was also hosting World Cup matches, the Dallas show seemingly was not affected as much, possibly because the venue was not close to the Mart.
Featured Vendors
indicates a CAMEO EZ© web site.
Ala Carte Alice
Click for Details
Ala Carte Alice's mission is simple: to provide the best products and service to their customers and use the freshest ingredients that they can find. Alice Wooten takes great pride in her company, their commitment to customer service and in the products they sell. Ala Carte Alice’s products include savory sauces, red dog rubs, glazes, relishes and jams. Black and Blue Bacon, Creme Brulee and Sante Fe are just some of the yummy cheese balls Alice offers. In addition, there are mouth watering desserts, party dips and awesome entrees. You have go to try Ala Carte Alice for an excellent cullinary experience!
Albert L
Click for Details
The albert L. (punkt) products are all traditionally handcrafted. We are striving to support the conventional social structures. Hanoi’s craft villages hold cultural values that are built up and cemented after generations of craftsmen here. At these villages, there are so many skillful craftsmen that the entire village becomes a large manufacturing center, like bamboo, ceramic, rattan etc. In order to guarantee high quality standards, all our products are checked and controlled by our quality team in our warehouse in Hanoi and once more in our warehouse here in the US before it is sent for an order.
AntlerWorx
Click for Details
Every AntlerWorx piece is uniquely designed. We start with a vision and choose from hundreds of antlers to get the perfect combination for a symmetrical, aesthetically pleasing work of art.
Bridgeton Hall
Click for Details
Bridgeton Hall is a small, family-owned business, focused on discovering products that are aesthetically pleasing. The company's suncatchers come in Large Circle, Large Oval, Medium Circle, Medium Oval, Shaped and Square sizes. Assorted prepacks and custom options are available, as well as a variety of store displays.
Carstens
Click for Details
Carstens tagline is "Outfitters for the Wild at Heart." They feature bedding, pillows, throws, curtains, bath, rugs, footstools and themed products for Holiday, Wrangler, Kids and more.
The Chizel
Click for Details
The Chizel started in the garage of the co-founder and has grown to be one of the largest producers of high-quality etched glass products. The company recently moved to a new manufacturing facility and have expanded its offerings. The Chizel's growth is mostly attributed to the uniqueness of its art, giving its products purpose and timeless functionality.
Dutch House Caramels
Click for Details
Dutch House Caramels was founded in 1997, when the owners of Bayfields Bake Shop & Grill, in Alexandria, Minnesota developed a recipe for caramel candy and started making the product in the restaurant. Today the company features caramels in a variety of assortments and gift boxes.
EMV Trading
Click for Details
EMV's products are deeply inspired by nature with an emphasis on creating beautiful lasting memories. The company's vast selection of unique products complements fine jewelry stores or gift/souvenir shop. EMV jewelry is perfect for any occasion, ranging from formal to casual events with specialization in Hawaiian Koa jewelry and also offering: license plates, shells and pearls jewelry, sterling silver/stainless steel/tungsten/wood collections, assorted natural gemstones and stone fashion jewelry.
Fairhope Favorites
Click for Details
Fairhope Favorites Inc. is a family owned 32 year old wholesale gourmet food company with unique items, such as Moonshine Hot Sauces and other novelty gifts. We are from Fairhope, Alabama in the deep south and all of our products are made here in the USA. "We pride ourselves with our unique products, with a touch of humor, and take great pride in all of our items."
Fancy That Gift & Décor
Click for Details
Fancy That Gift & Decor, Inc. celebrated its 18th anniversary in August, 2019. Owners, Steve and Carmen Mendelson, have used their experience in gift and home decor to build a company that takes pride in providing quality Coastal Decor products and service with the highest levels of integrity always at the forefront.
Festive Finds
Click for Details
At Festive Finds, we bring the magic of each season straight to your doorstep. Our mission is to provide a delightful shopping experience, offering a wide range of seasonal merchandise for every occasion and celebration.
FG Square Village
Click for Details
The company's mission is to craft flawless seasonal pieces for aficionados of villages, ranging from Halloween animated villages to Christmas figurines. Rooted in years of retail experience and fortified by design and production expertise, the FG Square brand was officially established in 2022. The company has a dedicated focus on supplying holiday villages to diverse retailers across the United States.
Flathau's Fine Foods
Click for Details
Flathau's Fine Foods is a woman-owned cookie manufacturer based in Petal, MS. After 25+ years of business, Jeff and Heather Flathau have added six new flavors of candied shortbreads, cheese straws, and Robicheaux's Pecan Turtles. Flathau's only produces the best of the best, which is why 80% of its product line has won at least one award.
Gage Inc.
Click for Details
Gage Inc. sells their exclusive designer Venetian crystal and Italian glass vases, decanters and drinkware to accounts throughout United States and beyond. They have earned the reputation as one of the most trusted, innovative suppliers of exclusive, affordable designer gift and decorative items that endure the test of time and cherished for their generational heirloom qualities. Gage Meyer is President and Creative Director for Gage Inc.
Gina B. Designs
Click for Details
Gina B. Designs is an award-winning greeting card, gift and stationery products company featuring exceptional art and design. With an array of styles, variety of products and outstanding customer service, Gina B. Designs has "something for everyone." All products are proudly made in the U.S.A.
The Great San Saba River Pecan Company
Click for Details
The Great San Saba River Pecan Company is located in a huge pecan orchard near San Saba in Texas. The company's products include Preserves in a variety of flavors, Toppings, "Popin" Popcorn Pecan Snack and Pecan Pie in-a-Jar.
Grow Rock
Click for Details
Grow Rock, a family-owned company that brings 200-year-old science used by farmers to boost crops and yield, into your home to help your plants grow bigger and faster. Grow rock uses innovative technology to generate microcurrents in the soil, which increases absorption of water and nutrients, resulting in larger, more lush, beautiful plants without the use of harmful chemicals or fertilizers. Grow Rock is available in four stylish designs with many more styles to come.
HEDi Gear
Click for Details
HEDi Gear features HEDi backpacks, patches, luggage tags, stickers and more for schools, teams, etc. The HEDi-PACK was created with the understanding that it’s just a handful of moments in our lives that make us the people we are today. Every HEDi-PACK comes with added Velcro areas for you to celebrate these moments, customizing your HEDi-PACK by adding patches.
JAG Enterprises Inc.
Click for Details
Having been in business now for 31 years, JAG Enterprises Inc. is the premier place to find your special collegiate, gift and souvenir needs at the best price available.
J & J Woodshop
Click for Details
With a passion for custom woodworking, J & J Woodshop operates a business that hand-crafts exceptional wooden products. Founded by wood artisan David Krepel, he and his team have grown into a thriving industry. The company's selections include jewelry boxes, wooden crosses, home products, key chains and much more. From custom orders to popular inventory pieces, J & J makes sure that each stroke of the wooden curve is as satisfactory to you as it was to us while crafting.
Magnolia Lane Collection
Click for Details
At Magnolia Lane, our desire is to produce gifts that become part of celebrations, memories, and family treasures. Our licensed tailgating products, Christmas line, The South collection, and outdoor decor will enhance and compliment every occasion! We are proud of what we do and are ever grateful and dedicated to our customers.
Mills Gourmet
Click for Details
Mills Gourmet says, "Our products are available in our local area and throughout the US! Every gourmet mix we cultivate is made from scratch right here in our kitchen with the same needs in mind---taste, quality and affordability. We are proud of every single product in our inventory, and we promise our unique blends will give you a taste of real goodness!"
Mountaineer Floral
Click for Details
Mountaineer Floral, LLC, is a family-owned silk floral wholesale company specializing in silk flower bushes, silk floral Styrofoam, decorative silk sympathy designs, baskets, and ribbon (seasonal, shear, tuxedo, and floral satin). Over the past 30 years, The company has built relationships with customers from North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia, and Kentucky. Mountaineer Floral's business is a blend of high quality products at reasonable prices. The company is family owned and operated, now in the third generation.
Orleans Home Fragrances
Click for Details
Orleans Home Fragrances has a new wholesale website. The company is a family-owned company inspired by the culture and charm of New Orleans. They craft timeless fragrances that bring warmth, elegance, and a sense of place into every room. Lines include candles, laundry detergent, and wickless products, like scented oils, room sprays, foaming hand wash, car fresheners and more.
Pearl & Coral Hawaii
Click for Details
Founded in 1984, Pearl and Coral is a family owned business based in the heart of Waikiki in Honolulu, HI, featuring the incredible quality and craftsmanship of local Hawaiian artisans, the wonderful spirit of Aloha, and the depth of knowledge & expertise of the family about fine jewelry. Categories include Earrings, Necklaces and Pendants.
Pure Mana Hawaii
Click for Details
Pure Mana Hawaii Founders Sue Mandini and Kollette Stith bring the wisdom of living close to the land and in harmony with nature's rhythms to the marketplace in their luxury skincare line. Built from the ground up, the brand features wild harvested ingredients and a synergy of raw, wild macadamia nut oil and green coffee bean oil, grown on their family's certified organic farm, Mahina Mele in Hawaii.
Quintessential Chocolates
Click for Details
Quintessential Chocolates specializes in the centuries old art form of casting “Liqueur Praliné” or the European style Liquid Center Chocolates (“with a sugar crust”). The process the company uses is more than 200 years old. Quintessential is the only manufacturer of this specialty confection in America and has been creating these chocolates since 1984.
Samuel Lamont USA
Click for Details
Founded in 1835, Samuel Lamont is a family run business that continues to manufacture kitchen textiles and provide luxury homeware and giftware. They offer the popular Poli-Dri Tea Towels, Aprons and so much more.
Sassy Talkin'
Click for Details
Graphic designer, photographer, and artist Diana uses all of her talents to create unique designs on humorous decorative towels, coasters, ornaments and tumblers for women. New products are created by Diana listening to her customers. What sets Sassy Talkin' apart is the fact that the company creates for its customers and name drop with no set up fees.
Serenity + Sol
Click for Details
Serenity + Sol features Metaphysical Products, including Crystal Bags, Essential Oils, Jewelry, Key Rings, "Evil Eye", Sage and Smudge and Sun Catchers. Prepacks are also available.
SparkJump
Click for Details
SparkJump's goal is simple... They want their high-quality kids woodworking products to inspire kids and adults of all ages to build amazing things together, so everyone experiences the joy of creating something special with someone special.
Sunset Vista Designs
Click for Details
Sunset Vista Designs offers you extra margin opportunities, and sells thru at retail. They offer innovative designs, in proven products, with space saving merchandising solutions, and attractive package deals that all add value to the quality products we offer. Many say this is the "best ever" line of innovative gift, garden, and home decor.
The Whitehurst Company
Click for Details
The Whitehurst Company has roots in the Christmas and Home Holiday industry dating back to 1947, first started by Mr. and Mrs. Morris Whitehurst. Now owned and managed as a multi-generation, family-owned business, The Whitehurst Company offers you a wide selection of holiday decor. Products include the largest selection of solid colored ornaments, curated collections of European glass molds, along with licensed products that include Zim’s Elves Themselves, Zim's Collectible Heirloom Nutcrackers and Children of the Inner Light by Marci inspirational ornaments.
Back-to-School Shoppers More Cautious This Year 
Billy Joe Homewares