The 3D sign between the IFDC building and Showplace is a popular spot for pictures. Photo courtesy of Furniture Today
Imagine a shopping mall the size of an entire town where the only thing being sold is furniture and home décor. That is the closest comparison to what awaits the international buyers, retailers, interior designers and exhibitor personnel who descend on High Point NC twice a year for the world’s largest furniture industry trade show: High Point Furniture Market.
The furniture business has been key to this area of NC for many years due to the abundance of trees. Furniture exhibitions were a logical result and have been occurring here since the early 1900s, growing and culminating into what many long-time attendees call simply “Market.”
It brings billions of dollars of revenue to the state of North Carolina each year from the hotels, restaurants and surrounding airports that service those in attendance. The population of High Point – which is around 118,000 (in 2024) – almost doubles every April and October when attendees descend on the town and its environs to visit showrooms of more than 2000 exhibitors of furniture, wallcovering, rugs, decorative accessories and lighting. Over 11 million square feet of showroom space divided among 180 different buildings display all that is new and exciting. There’s a lot to take in. Although there is a shuttle service available, walking between showrooms and buildings is inevitable so comfortable shoes are a must!
L-Showplace, R-International Home Furnishings Center (IHFC) 2 of the main exhibition buildings in downtown High Point.
For manufacturers, Market is a testing ground for new product. Not every new style tested in the showrooms will be put into production. Only the top performers will be introduced to a vendor’s line-up.
For buyers, Market offers an opportunity to refresh product lines, see what new styles, colors and technological innovations are trending and to establish and renew business networks.
In addition to visiting showrooms, there are seminars, parties, performances by entertainers, cocktail hours, and tours to fill up the 5 short days. It is a lot of information for everyone to process, and visitors return home full of ideas to implement during the next 6 months… until the next Market when it all begins again.