So long, Frankfurt……Hello Anaheim.

While there were certainly some stunning new products (you can see some of them on our Instagram feed at @tabletopjournal) at Ambiente 2015 in Frankfurt, to us, the story of that show was more of something that we hadn’t quite anticipated as we drew up our game plan prior to heading to Germany. After all, normally, we head to shows looking for great new products. And, again, there were some terrific new hospitality tabletop products there.

But, our real takeaway was first and foremost from the people we encountered at the show. The show had perhaps one of the most optimistic vibes we’ve felt in some time. Global economics see to either be on the rebound a bit depending upon the market or people have just gotten used to a lower economic level (Greece, for instance). But everyone on the supplier side seems very forward-looking and positive about the upcoming year or two as they look out…..

People such as American company Libbey with their stock at an all time high price per share and their new “Own The Moment” approach….and right across the aisle at Steelite with new products in new categories such as melamine and the continued success of their very exciting CRAFT dinnerware…lots of optimism and excitement for both these brands. RAK Porcelain celebrating their 10th Anniversary in fine style with two new collections and Schonwald excited about their new partnership with Libbey in North America. The folks at Pasabahce Glass also feeling very positive about North America positive about because of the gains they have made with their relatively new partner Hospitality Glass and the success of their NUDE glassware still in its launch phase. And, of course Arc International with new ownership and a refreshed outlook on going to market with their many great products across the total tabletop. Its an exciting time for the glassware segment in hospitality, that is for sure. Nearly on every front, exhibitors and hospitality industry visitors alike were upbeat and excited. Truly great to see.

The other great takeaway from Frankfurt was in the areas of new materials. We seemed to have more discussions than ever about the use of non-traditional materials within the hospitality tabletop category. New and different plastic-type polymers, metal alloys, organic stone, and even concrete…all came up in various discussion regarding new and innovative ideas coming in hospitality tabletop. So, while we continue to say that this is the most exciting time we’ve seen in hospitality tabletop in quite a while….it looks like the best may still be yet to come. So, now, we’re even more excited to hit the show floor at NAFEM. Can’t wait to see what that show will have in store for our category. 

One thing is for sure though…..#TabletopMatters…..all around the world!