Should You visit Maison Objet? Ally provides some insight

For American buyers, it’s a big decision on whether to incur the expense of traveling to Paris to attend Maison Objet. Bill and I have been exhibiting at M&O for the past 10 years and we have observed trends both good and bad.

Let me just say that there are few trade fairs world-wide that are as comprehensive and quality driven as M&O. NY NOW and Atlanta Mart pale in comparison to M&O – and frankly I would rather be in Paris than Atlanta. Having said that, I get that the purpose of visiting the two shows are entirely different. As a retailer, you need to view the new collections from existing suppliers and place orders. But with Maison Objet, you will find unique products and discover new trends from a completely different set of manufacturers.

Some quick facts:

·        77,000 visitors from 149 countries over 5 days

·        48% retail stores/30% interior design

·        3137 international exhibitors from 69 countries

Once you decide to visit Paris, you will need to choose between the Jan show and Sept show. Years ago, there was very little difference between the two, but as budgets were slashed – exhibitors began cutting out the Sept show. Which is too bad since Paris is absolutely delicious in September. The flowers are in full bloom at Luxembourg Gardens and the Parisians are dining (without heat lamps) outside at every bistro until after midnight. It really is glorious. This year for the first time, Hall 8 was closed at Parc des Exposition due to the number of exhibitors dropping out. It is still an incredible Fair and Mike + Ally exhibits at both, but unless you have your heart set for Paris in September- I would recommend the Winter Fair in Jan.

If you come in mid January, it will be cold but not ridiculous. And the best part is that all of Paris is on sale. I am not talking friends and family 20% but everywhere is 50%. It truly is a shopping mecca and actually quite reasonable. Unlike the States, there are more individual boutiques than mall stores and a greater variety of fashion. Don’t forget to apply for your VAT rebate at the airport.

If your intention is to place orders, make sure you have a means of shipping the merchandise back to the States. Do your research in advance on applicable duties/tariffs so there are no surprises and contract with a freight consolidator to have all orders consolidated and shipped back via air or ocean. Small orders can be shipped DHL or Fed Ex.

I would recommend attending every other year. The exhibitors do a wonderful job with their booths (many multi level), the food is excellent, there are over 70 seminars and 8 halls to visit. Some people will advise you to stay near CDG airport which is only 15 min away – but why bother flying all the way over to Paris. My recommendation is to stay in Paris and visit the show for 2 1/2 days. You can take a taxi or the less expensive 45 min RER B train back and forth. Spend an extra day or two and visit the stores in St Germain des Pres or Le Marais. Or museums or side trips outside Paris. And of course enjoy some gastronomical meals. Contact me and I would be glad to give you some additional tips…..

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www.maison-objet.com