Top museum souvenirs provide revenue and inspire guests.
Products celebrating America’s 250th birthday are selling fast.
College Traditions’ focus on everything Ohio State pays off.
At the von Trapp Family Lodge & Resort, a beloved cultural story continues through hospitality, heritage and experience-driven retail.
At the von Trapp Family Lodge & Resort in Stowe, Vermont, guests often encounter a beloved cultural story through its hospitality, heritage and experience-driven retail.
For many museums, souvenirs play an important role in generating revenue and engaging customers at a critical time for these iconic institutions. These retailers say it is key to carry a mix of custom souvenirs and impulse items tied to the museum’s mission.
MARCH-APRIL 2026 | VOLUME 65 | ISSUE 2
EDITOR’S LETTER
Get into a retail groove and be ready for peak season.
RETAILER ROADMAP
Discover the stores featured in this issue.
NEWS BRIEFS
The Mob Museum opens new store; Soft Stuff Creations expands line.
FRESH IDEAS
Buffalo; fall; jungle animals; camping; botanical; western/cowboy.
ATTRACTION ACTION
How to plan ahead to draft a strong seasonal team.
SAVVY SHOPKEEPER
The importance of building and maintaining a local foundation.
TREND TALK
Interest in upcycled finds is on the rise.
TRADE SHOW CALENDAR
Make plans to attend these upcoming trade shows.
TRADE SHOW NEWS
Coverage from past and upcoming trade shows.
PRODUCT SHOWCASE
Get fresh new product ideas for your store.
AD INDEX
Easily locate an advertiser’s ad and website. 12 14 16 20 32 34 36 82 84 86 88 38 44
FEATURES
PRODUCT TREND: America250
Destination retailers and vendors alike are ready for this historic milestone.
PRODUCT TREND: Nature & Conservation
Putting a spotlight on eco-friendly souvenirs can be a winning strategy.
MERCHANDISING: Toys & Games
Smart store flow and strategic resets turn toy displays into discovery zones.
RETAILER SPOTLIGHT: College Traditions
Buckeye spirit takes center stage at College Traditions in Columbus, Ohio.
Q&A: Bobblehead Museum
The museum store blends novelty and nostalgia with its souvenirs.
SUNSHINE AWARD: New England Aquarium
This Boston attraction’s store is making waves of impact.
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Entire contents ©2026 Breakwall Publishing LLC. All rights reserved. Materials in this publication may not be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Content contributed by writers, advertisers, and outside sources in Souvenirs, Gifts & Novelties is presented for informational purposes only and does not necessarily represent the views of Breakwall Publishing LLC or the editorial staff. Inclusion of advertisements or sponsored content does not indicate endorsement of any company, product, or service. Breakwall Publishing LLC and Souvenirs, Gifts & Novelties cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of information submitted by advertisers, agencies, vendors, or contributors and are not liable for any errors, omissions, or claims made therein.
Souvenirs, Gifts & Novelties (ISSN 1521-4249) is published bi-monthly by Breakwall Publishing, LLC, 1455 Frazee Rd., Suite 500, San Diego, CA 92108. Periodical postage paid at San Diego, CA, and at additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to Souvenirs, Gifts & Novelties, P.O. Box 3000, Denville, NJ 07834.
There’s a distinct rhythm to this time of year in the souvenir and gift industry. Traffic starts to pick up. Destinations prepare for an influx of visitors. Retailers fine-tune assortments designed to resonate with customers — offering meaningful keepsakes, destination-driven merchandise and impulse-friendly finds that capture the spirit of their experience.
By now, you’ve laid the groundwork. Fall and winter markets and trade shows are behind you. Purchase orders have been written. Custom programs are in motion. Destination-specific merchandise has been carefully selected. Displays are refreshed, inventory is flowing in and you’re setting pricing, margins and minimums.
Getting into the groove isn’t about reacting to traffic — it’s about anticipating it. Today’s souvenir and gift customer is looking for something unique, authentic, that tells a story and provides a tangible connection to the experience they’re having. That may come in the form of custom apparel designs, locally inspired food items, artisan-crafted keepsakes or conservation-themed goods — that capture the spirit of a destination.
Getting into the groove isn’t about reacting to traffic — it’s about anticipating it.
At Souvenirs, Gifts & Novelties, we’re tuned in to that same rhythm. Our team is tracking emerging trends and product categories gaining momentum across tourist markets, attractions and destination-driven gift stores. We’re speaking with retailers who are refining their merchandising strategies and discovering creative ways to differentiate in competitive markets.
This is also a season for operational focus. As volume increases, so does the importance of inventory management, staff training and in-store storytelling. Small adjustments — clearer signage, bundled offers, suggestive selling at checkout — can significantly lift the average sale and improve sell-through on key programs.
The months ahead will move quickly. Peak traffic windows will open and close in what feels like the blink of an eye. The retailers who thrive are those who establish their cadence early — who know their customer, trust their assortment and stay nimble as trends evolve.
Now is the time to lean in — to refine, to energize your team and to execute with confidence. The groundwork has been laid. The doors are opening. And the season ahead holds real potential for those ready to step fully into it. SGN
Souvenirs, Gifts & Novelties interviews retailers in popular destinations all over the United States. These are the stores featured in the March-April 2026 issue.
Beaches & Beyond Porter, IN
Linda Palko
Bobblehead Museum and Hall of Fame
Milwaukee, WI
Phil Sklar
College Traditions
Columbus, OH
Kelly Dawes
Eastern National
Fort Washington, PA
Jason Scarpello
Frontiers of Flight Museum
Dallas, TX
Liz Meaders
Independence Seaport Museum
Philadelphia, PA
Andrea Pollock
McKinley Presidential Library & Museum Canton, OH
Lou Lewis
New England Aquarium Boston, MA
Lisa Zajonc
PA Wilds
Kane, PA
Libby Bloomquist
Pebbles Toys & Gifts
New Haven, CT
Lauren Coleman
Peoria Riverfront Museum
Peoria, IL
Kate Schureman
Saint Louis Zoo
St. Louis, MO
Tommy Brown
Tate & Tilly Tampa, FL
Andrea McDermott
The General Store Jackson, MS
Todd Ward
The Great Rocky Mountain Toy Company Bozeman, MT
Sam Rickenbaugh
The Mob Museum Gift Shop
Las Vegas, NV
Jonathan Ullman
The Nature Nook Vero Beach, FL
Cheryl George
von Trapp Family Lodge Stowe, VT
Kristina von Trapp Frame
Have a story you would like to share? We would love to hear from you! Email Kristin Ely at kristin@breakwallpublishing.com.
Travelers passing through Las Vegas’ Harry Reid International Airport can now get a taste of The Mob Museum experience before leaving the terminal. The Mob Museum has debuted its first-ever airport retail store, offering visitors a preview of the museum’s storytelling, artifacts and curated merchandise. The new store is located in the D Gates at the Harry Reid International Airport.
Developed in partnership with the Day One Group, an airport concessions operator, the store brings the museum’s distinctive voice and mission to travelers at the Harry Reid International Airport, which welcomed over 58 million passengers in 2024. The Mob Museum draws over 400,000 visitors annually for its immersive exhibits and compelling narratives on organized crime and law enforcement.
“This store provides an introductory touchpoint, offering a glimpse into the stories and artifacts that await downtown,” says Jonathan Ullman, CEO and president of The Mob Museum.
The Coastal Connections Conference is returning to the Margaritaville Resort Orlando, Sept. 18-20, 2026. The new September timing and enhanced schedule provides unparallelled opportunities for coastal retailers to learn and connect in a laid-back setting ideal for making connections.
Billed as the retail conference with a coastal vibe, the Coastal Connections Conference is produced by Breakwall Publishing, publisher of Seaside Retailer and Souvenirs, Gifts & Novelties magazines. Every aspect of the event — from educational sessions to networking and vendor engagement — is designed specifically for owners and managers of coastal brickand-mortar stores. Conveniently timed to begin just as Surf Expo and The Gathering conclude, the September schedule offers coastal retailers a smart, streamlined way to make the most of their time in Orlando.
“We’re thrilled to return to Orlando for the third Coastal Connections Conference,” says Kristin Ely, conference director. “Attendees will gain practical, actionable strategies from leading retail experts who have tailored their sessions specifically for this audience — all in an island-like paradise only Margaritaville Resort Orlando can provide. It’s why past attendees call it a can’t-miss event for coastal retailers.”
The Coastal Connections Conference kicks off with a Welcome Party at 6 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18. Eight targeted seminars on Saturday, Sept. 19 and Sunday, Sept. 20 will cover profitability, inventory management, disaster preparedness, visual merchandising, increasing foot traffic, effective social media strategy and more. The Boardwalk is an exclusive buying experience for attendees offering curated access to leading coastal brands.
“The Boardwalk is a true highlight of the conference experience,” says Publisher Karen Carr. “It’s an intentionally curated buying experience that gives retailers direct access to coastal brands in a relaxed, relationship-driven setting designed to spark discovery, encourage meaningful conversations and foster partnerships.”
Stuff Creations adds Cherokee Nation to Indigenous Series for smaller, collectible plush with strong educational and cultural ties.
Soft Stuff Creations is expanding its Indigenous People plush series with the release of a new Cherokee Nation collection, continuing a push toward culturally meaningful, collectible plush designed for museums, cultural centers and other destination retailers.
The Cherokee Nation collection was developed in collaboration with artist Mary Beth Timothy and features seven finger puppet designs representing the tribe’s seven clans. The line also includes a clan house playset that allows the plush characters to interact through storytelling and play.
Soft Stuff Creations Sales Coordinator Danica Adams says the new release builds on growing demand
“Retailers are scaling back and focusing on specialized items with a range of price points,” Adams says. “Smaller plush collections are easier to stock, easier to track and give visitors a reason to return and complete the set.”
Soft Stuff Creations’ Indigenous People series includes finger puppets and modular playsets that can be purchased individually or as a full collection — a strategy that supports repeat transactions for destination retailers, Adams points out.
“Visitors can purchase an entire set or walk away with just one or two items,” she explains. “Maybe they don’t have the budget for a $50 or
$60 item, but they can take home a $12 piece and add to the collection next time.”
Looking ahead, Adams says Soft Stuff Creations plans to continue expanding the Indigenous People series to feature additional cultures and other artists.
“We want to be known for meaningful plush that tells stories and helps retailers build loyalty one collectible at a time,” she says.
The PA Wilds Center for Entrepreneurship has signed a 35-year lease with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to operate PA Wilds Conservation Shops at two state parks in the Pennsylvania Wilds region. The two mission-driven gift shops, at Kinzua Bridge State Park and Leonard Harrison State Park, help improve market access for rural entrepreneurs by sourcing 90% of inventory from rural small businesses in the 13-county PA Wilds region.
“We are grateful to Gov. Josh Shapiro and his administration for making this happen for our organization and mission and our growing network of rural small businesses,” says PA Wilds Center Founder and CEO Ta Enos. “Thirty-five-year leases are a big deal. They give small businesses, community partners, current and future employees, and funders the confidence to invest with us because they know what we’re building is around to stay.”
PA Wilds’ flagship PA Wilds Conservation Shop at Kinzua Bridge State Park opened in 2016 under a short-term lease, marking the start of a public-private partnership between the PA Wilds Center and the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), which manages the park.
PA Wilds opened two additional Conservation Shop stores in 2024 at Leonard Harrison State Park in Tioga County and along the Knox-Kane Rail Trail in Marienville in Forest County. Collectively, the three stores have achieved over $3.4 million in gross sales.
“About half of what our stores generate goes right back to the rural small businesses that make up our supply chain,” says Enos. “The remainder supports our mission and store operations, including local jobs. We have an incredible store team that works diligently to create a great experience for customers, collaborate with local makers and pass park foot traffic to small businesses in nearby gateway communities.”
Leanin’ Tree, a vendor specializing in greeting cards, has appointed Karl Kunz as its new CEO. Kunz brings extensive experience in business and finance to the role, along with a deep commitment to the company’s mission.
Prior to this appointment, Kunz served on the board of directors for Leanin’ Tree’s employee ownership entity, Dream Ranch Holdings Co., for the past three years, most of that time serving as chairman.
Kunz succeeds Nick Anderson in the new CEO role. In his new role, Kunz will lead operations from the company’s headquarters in Mead, Colorado.
“Leanin’ Tree has been focused on strengthening our infrastructure and processes, including relocating production and offices to a newly built facility,” says Kunz. “I’m excited to lead the company into this next chapter of growth and innovation.”
Avolta receives retail contracts at Palm Beach International Airport
Avolta, a global travel retailer and food & beverage vendor with headquarters in Switzerland, has been awarded two 10-year contracts to operate travel retail and dining operations at Florida’s Palm Beach International Airport. Part of the airport’s major expansion and modernization project, the new contracts represent over 13,700 square feet of concessions space, combining retail and dining to create holistic travel experiences.
Under the new agreements, Avolta’s Hudson will develop four specialty retail and travel convenience stores throughout the airport. Beginning in 2026, the new retail offerings will bring hyper-local, curated shopping experiences to the airport, showcasing Palm Beach’s blend of luxury, leisure and local flavor, according to the company.
“We’re proud to introduce new concessions that highlight the flavors and spirit of Palm Beach County,” says Laura Beebe, director of airports for Palm Beach County Department of Airports. “We’re creating an experience that feels authentic to our community.”
1. The Wilusz Way: Mountain Buffalo layered wood design, www.thewiluszwaywooddesigns.com; 2. Rabbit Studios: Large buffalo umbrella, www.billandtracirabbit.com/wholesale; 3. Katie Nieland Art: Floral bison T-shirt, www.katienielandart.com; 4. Fiesta Toy: Earth Pals bison plush, www.fiestatoy.com; 5. Cape Shore: 18-ounce bison emblem mug, www.cape-shore.com; 6. Bamboo Trading Company: Wildlife and earth bison necklace, www.bambootradingcompany.com; 7. Town Pride: Icon cardigan sweater - buffalo, www.townpride.com; 8. Little Critterz: American Bison “Prairie” miniature porcelain figurine, www.littlecritterz.com; 9. Violette Stickers: Bison/buffalo stickers, www.violettestickers.com.
1. Susquehanna Glass: Morning Pumpkin! custom Paris tavern mug, www.susquehannaglass.com; 2. Better Magnets: You Are The Pumpkin To My Pie magnet, www.bettermagnets.com; 3. Stickers Northwest: Fall-themed stickers, www.stickersnorthwest.com; 4. Warmies: Acorn Warmies microwavable plush, www.wholesale.warmies.com; 5. Grasshopper’s Mermaid: Pumpkin spice latte sticker, www.grasshoppersmermaid.com; 6. Beacon Design: Truck with Pumpkins ornament, www.beacondesign.com; 7. Sugar Candle: Hand-poured pumpkin spice latte soy wax candle, www.mysugarcandle.com/pages/wholesale; 8. Silver Streak: Gold heart leaf necklace, www.silverstreaks.com; 9. Sincere Surroundings: Cozy Little Autumn sign, www.sinceresurroundings.com.
Add a roar of personality with products that celebrate the beauty and excitement of the rainforest.
1. CoTa Global: Sloth pen, www.cotaglobal.com; 2. Cappy Trails: Weatherproof lemur sticker, www.cappytrails.com; 3. Melissa Lew: Tiger bracelet, www.melissalew.com; 4. Nature Planet: Conservation Critters cotton-top tamarin, www.natureplanet.com; 5. Close to UR Heart: Sloth stainless steel earrings, www.close2urheart.com; 6. American Brand Studios: Jaguar by Snout Mugs, www.americanbrandstudio.com; 7. Beadworx by Extol Accessories: Beaded tree frog, www.extolltd.com; 8. Call for the Wild: Rescue Panther Plush with Crate, www.forwild.com; 9. LaserGifts: Flash-n-flip keyring - Rainforest Cafe design, www.lasergifts.com; 10. My Bougie Bottle: Rainforest Trust 25-ounce insulated water bottle, www.mybougiebottle.com.
1. Lipco: Speckled blend camp mug, www.lipco.biz; 2. Rogue Life Maine: Campfires and Cocktails T-shirt, www.roguelifemaine.com; 3. Conscious Step: Socks that Protect National Parks, www.consciousstep.com; 4. Mountain Graphics: Die-cut wooden campfire name-drop magnet, www.mtgraphics.com; 5. Urban Charm: Love You S’more Everyday bronze round keychain with charm and tassel, www.urbancharminspires.com; 6. Tangico: Happy Camper wood ornament, www.tangicousa.com; 7. Wet-it!: Retro Camper Swedish cloth, www.wetit.faire.com; 8. Canned Gifts: Canned S’more plush toy, www.cannedgifts.com; 9. Impulse Souvenirs: Big Mac Nebraska custom keychain, www.impulsesouvenirs.com.
Add some leafy blooms to your merchandise selection with these products.
1. C&F Home: Palm Beach PET kitchen towel, www.cnfei.com; 2. Mowbi Wholesale: Hibiscus and hummingbird square art print, www.mowbiwholesale.com; 3. Kerusso: Women’s T-shirt - Wildflowers, www.wholesale.kerusso.com; 4. Pichincha: Sunflower durepox resin figurine keychain, www.pichinchagifts.com; 5. Wheeler Manufacturing: Red enamel flower earrings from Emma & Ive line, www.wheelerjewelry.com; 6. Lotus and Luna: Secret Garden bracelet with nature-inspired detail, www.lotusandluna.com; 7. The Cottonseed Marketplace: State flower layered wooden ornament, cottonseedmarketplace.faire.com; 8. CoolSnowGlobes: Japanese garden snow globe, www.coolsnowglobes.com; 9. Cream Cornwall: Hedgegrow notebook, www.creamcornwall.com.
Celebrate the cowboy lifestyle with these products that are inspired by the West.
1. Desperate Enterprises: Welcome Friends - horses tin sign, www.desperate.com; 2. Silver Birch Designs: Turquoise engraved acrylic cow skull drop earrings, www.silverbirchgifts.net; 3. Brielle’s Shells: Charming - HairJoy extension, www.briellesshells.com; 4. Giffa USA: Saddle the Dog plush from the Howdy Collection, www.giffausa.com; 5. Avery Lane Gifts: Western blue and white cowboy boots coffee mug, www.averylanegifts.com; 6. Kurt S. Adler: Western boots ornaments, www.kurtadler.com; 7. House of Talismans: Lovers original art tee, www.houseoftalismans.com; 8. Spoontiques: Welcome Y’all hand-painted stepping stone, www.spoontiques.com; 9. Plushology by RGU: Customized Squishy Saguaro Cactus plushie, www.thergugroup.faire.com.
BY TOMMY BROWN
With spring nearly here, it’s time for many destination retailers to start staffing for the influx of summer visitors. As with many challenges, the balance between adequate staffing and labor expenses can be a very intricate dance. Your focus should be on finding the right people for the hours you need to fill.
Before you begin hiring seasonal workers, determine how many labor hours you will need for peak season based on sales data from the last three years. For many attraction retailers, sales peak several hours before the attraction closes for the day. Make note of your store’s busy times and place them on a data sheet.
Spending a little extra time in finding the right seasonal employees can pay off in the long run.
Next, look at when stock arrives at your location and add those times into your data sheet. It’s always a good idea to have set stock times rather than guessing to better plan your labor hours.
Finally, look at slow volume times for the store. Identify those times and note how many people you really need. Most of the time, a skeleton crew is all that is really needed to do the work for these hours.
After you collect data on your store’s labor hours, consider what types of employees can work those hours. Keep in mind, not everyone wants to work eight hours a day. Some may only want to work a five-hour shift.
For example, student employees might be most available to help from 4-10 p.m. during peak hours since it’s after school. Conversely, retirees on your team may only want to work several hours a week and may prefer to help with a stocking shift from 8 a.m. to noon.
Your core workers should be the people who work at least eight hours a day. These will be the people working during your downtime periods. Looking at staff members’ scheduling needs rather than giving everyone an eight-hour shift can greatly impact your labor expenses and still produce a great experience for your guests.
When posting seasonal job openings, be sure to include the expected hours on the job listing. Consider posting about the open positions in schools, civic centers, retirement communities and community organization boards.
Be sure to get permission before posting to an in-person job board. If possible, you might want to try conducting job interviews at these locations to help your prospective seasonal workers.
Spending a little extra time in finding the right seasonal employees can pay off in the long run, leading to a happier team and saving your labor budget. SGN
TOMMY BROWN has over 30 years’ experience in RETAIL MANAGEMENT. He’s held positions for Dillard’s, Sears, and Six Flags Inc. and is a past ZAG vice president. He currently guides retail at the SAINT LOUIS ZOO. Reach him at tbrown@stlzoo.org.
Irecently visited a client’s shop in a tourist town. Within a few minutes of my visit, she said something that stopped me in my tracks: “We rely on the ebb and flow of tourism.” She mentioned how many neighboring businesses have closed over the years and how hard it is to build something steady when your revenue depends on the unpredictable rhythm of travel.
Her business had a regular cycle: busy weekends, quiet weekdays, peak season, then a slower stretch. It wasn’t just a pattern — it was the reality she had been managing for years. When a store is built around visitors, the business naturally follows the rhythm of travel instead of creating its own rhythm.
FOCUSING ON LOCALS
Tourism is a gift. It creates volume, momentum and the kind of busy energy many retailers work hard to earn. At the same time, it can also create inconsistency, and
When a store serves both tourists and locals, it stops feeling seasonal and starts feeling sustainable.
inconsistency makes a business harder to manage. Inventory is a bigger gamble, staffing gets tricky and cash flow becomes unpredictable.
As we walked through my client’s store and talked about its traffic patterns and point-of-sale system data, the conversation shifted to a simple idea she hadn’t been focusing on yet: the local customer.
I asked, “What would it look like if locals became the foundation underneath the tourist season?” That’s when she started to see the opportunity differently. Locals weren’t just “extra” business — they provided stability.
Locals don’t shop like tourists, though. Visitors want memorable, one-of-a-kind items that represent their trip. Locals want something else: connection, community and a reason to return. They become regulars when a store gives them a place in the story.
Sometimes that connection comes from events or local partnerships, but often it’s built in quieter ways. Gift shops with a solid local customer base may have a section of the store highlighting “local favorites,” or they create seasonal traditions locals always talk about. They may also go out of their way to support local school and community causes or offer simple conveniences that make customers feel remembered.
The goal isn’t to compete for attention, it’s to become part of local life.
Tourist traffic doesn’t need to be replaced. It becomes more powerful when it’s supported by a local strategy.
Although tourism comes in waves, community is constant. Tourist business can bring peak sales, while local business helps a store become a community staple. When a store serves both tourists and locals, business stops feeling seasonal and starts feeling sustainable. SGN
KATHY CRUZ is a RETAIL BUSINESS COACH and host of the SAVVY SHOPKEEPER RETAIL PODCAST. Reach her via email at: kathy@savvyshopkeeper.com. Learn more on her website, www.savvyshopkeeper.com and Instagram @savvyshopkeeper.
BY MELODY CABAN
Agrowing segment of shoppers is rejecting disposable goods in favor of sustainability and enduring quality, like that found in vintage items. This trend is most visible in digital communities like Reddit’s “Buy It For Life” (or BIFL) community, where people want to find products that can stand the test of time.
For retailers, this shift represents a massive opportunity to redefine what a gift-worthy item looks like. By embracing a new way to shop, gift stores can position themselves as curators of value rather than just vendors of merchandise.
The ultimate goal of a gift is to create a lasting memory, and quality has become a radical differentiator.
Retailers do not need to transform into resale stores to tap into this market. Rather, a more effective approach is partnering with vendors that specialize in upcycled goods, such as modern handbags crafted from vintage textiles or jewelry made from recycled plastic or reclaimed wood.
Incorporating a curated selection of high-quality pieces that incorporate some element of reuse can help to round out your inventory with something unique that customers won’t find anywhere else.
People want products that are made to last. If you stock new items, lean heavily into their value. Use signage to highlight lifetime warranties, craftsmanship or the premium materials used.
When a customer understands that a $50 pocketknife or $100 wool blanket is potentially a “forever” item, the price becomes an investment rather than an expense.
To fully embrace the BIFL movement, consider offering services that help preserve or personalize high-quality goods. This could include leather conditioning for bags, professional blade sharpening for knives or custom embroidery for heirloom textiles. By providing the means to protect a gift or personalize it, you reinforce its status as a long-term investment and build a service-based relationship with your community.
The ultimate goal of a gift is to create a lasting memory, and quality has become a radical differentiator. Independent gift shops are uniquely positioned to bridge this gap, offering the personalized service and expertise needed to connect customers with truly meaningful objects.
As the retail environment evolves, the shops that thrive will be those that move away from the novelty of the moment and toward the utility of a lifetime. By embracing the BIFL philosophy, you’re not just selling a product. You’re selling a legacy. SGN
MELODY CABAN is founder of MELODY CABAN CONSULTING, a Latina-owned consulting service that cracks an urgent problem facing museums. Learn more at www.melodycabanconsulting.com.
At the von Trapp Family Lodge & Resort, a beloved cultural story continues through hospitality, heritage and experience-driven retail.
STORY BY KRISTEN HAMPSHIRE
For many guests, the von Trapp Family Lodge & Resort begins with a story they already know — The Sound of Music: Do-Re-Mi, Edelweiss, the von Trapp children lined up in song, and the hills alive with Maria and the Captain at the center.
What they find when they arrive is a 2,600acre Stowe, Vermont, landscape shaped by that story, with Alpine-style buildings, working farmland, trail networks and a family-run hospitality business that has evolved over generations.
“Come for our story, leave with your own,” is the resort’s newfound brand invitation that speaks to its draw as a landmark where visitors discover deeper personal connections during their stay.
Today, Kristina von Trapp Frame guides a legacy with modern-day experiences that are rooted in nostalgia. She’s the granddaughter of
Maria and Captain Georg von Trapp. Her father Johannes had expanded and elevated the lodge through the ages, establishing the country’s first Nordic cross-country ski center. Now alongside her brother, Sam, Kristina helps oversee an experiential operation that represents an enduring, cherished family story.
It’s a bucket list place.
For some guests, a visit is a pilgrimage tied to the movie. For others, it’s a family vacation, a honeymoon, a ski weekend or a quiet retreat. Many return time and again, sometimes over decades.
“People come for The Sound of Music and create their own memories here,” Kristina says.
This connection is what defines the von Trapp Lodge & Resort’s retail program. As Lisa Hunt, the retail buyer, points out, “It’s the most loved musical of all time, and we want to make sure our guests have a great experience and something they can take home.”
“The world is pretty heavy right now. I feel grateful to be part of something that brings people hope and joy.”
— KRISTINA VON TRAPP FRAME
same is true today. “The world is pretty heavy right now,” she relates. “I feel grateful to be part of something that brings people hope and joy.”
and stickers.
Kristina greets guests personally and most are amazed at the sheer access to a “real von Trapp.”
There’s nothing pretentious. Yes, sophisticated. All things are grounded in a moment. Also surprising to visitors: her childhood was more barn chores than Broadway.
“We carry really special, one-of-a-kind gifts and souvenirs for visitors who want to take home a little something.” — LISA HUNT
“We didn’t grow up singing around the piano,” she laughs, though quick to add classical music was always punctuating a theme. “We had horses, chickens, dogs and cats. We didn’t watch TV or know about The Sound of Music until we were 10 or 11.”
Without exposure to the musical that was globally embraced, Kristina says in all practicality, they lived a life like any other that had to go to the dentist, do chores, set the table and help on the land they labored over and loved.
Only many years later did she understand how deeply the story resonated with others as a symbol of resilience, courage and comfort. The
Indeed, the von Trapp hills are alive with energy year-round, and its collection of retail outposts offer venues to meet guests in all the moments.
Kristina applies two guiding tests when evaluating products and displays. There is heritage: “a little Austria, a lot of Vermont.”
And there’s a German word her father loved: Gemütlichkeit, meaning warm, cozy, intimate hospitality. “Not pretentious, not formal, more like walking into someone’s home,” she relates.
This philosophy translates into sourcing higher-quality materials, timeless designs and prioritizing authenticity over novelty. “We want things people will still love 10 or 20 years from now,” Kristina says.
Hunt approaches the assortment like a painter building a scene. “I start to visualize a whole section — the Scottish Highlander cattle, gardening, winter living — and then build the pieces around it,” she says.
The primary lodge boutique was relocated and renovated two years ago to sit at lobby level. Once tucked downstairs with limited visibility, the shop now benefits from constant flow. The redesign included modern fixtures such as glass
Relevant goat plush and toys are fun for the kids, and adults can remember the trip with a scenic postcard.
and metal shelving, improved lighting, warm wood elements and mood setters like classical music.
Here, guests find branded apparel, ceramics, ornaments, books, jewelry and keepsakes including Tangico’s wine stoppers and cork coasters. Mugs, ornaments, mittens and sweatshirts are perennial top sellers. Books are a signature category, especially when paired with Kristina’s signings after history tours.
“We carry really special, one-of-a-kind gifts and souvenirs for visitors who want to take home a little something,” Hunt says.
For the von Trapp Family Lodge & Resort’s 75th anniversary last year, Buyer Lisa Hunt curated one-of-a-kinds. She partnered with Gmundner Keramik, an Austrian ceramics company with centuries of history, to create hand-painted commemorative mugs and heart-shaped dishes available only at Von Trapp.
Another comfy collab with Vermont Teddy Bear Co. is a Maria von Trapp plush holding edelweiss. Not to mention, the pieces by Vermont Flannel that reflect the von Trapp’s long-term partnership with local providers.
Last December, the main lodge shop also dropped a 75th anniversary coffee table book by author Bill Anderson.
Tradition continues. “These are once-in-a-lifetime pieces,” Hunt relates.
Cow and sheep tours centered on the flock of Katahdin breed developed in Maine are especially memorable for guests and “just as important as seeing a von Trapp,” Kristina quips.
Plush by Douglas and other suppliers tie to the resort’s Scottish Highland cattle that roam the property and were introduced by Johannes von Trapp in the 1960s.
Smaller plush may be outfitted with name-drop bandannas.
Ornaments sell year-round, as do drinkware and gifts bearing familiar Sound of Music themes.
Then other gifts tell a story, and this is literally the case with von Trapp’s books. Those include coffee table titles, the von Trapp family history and Maria’s story.
After tours, Kristina is prepared to sign copies in the main lodge boutique.
Beyond the main boutique, The Outdoor Center functions as a retail and activity hub. It’s the departure point for hiking, mountain biking, Nordic skiing, snowshoeing and tours.
Merchandise reflects this with technical layers, Nordic apparel, winter gear, lifestyle outdoor clothing and accessories. Brands span from Swix to Patagonia and Craft.
Meanwhile, von Trapp Brewing and Bierhall are a sub-brand anchored by German-made steins, glassware and brewery-logo merchandise sourced from specialty importers.
Smaller retail touchpoints include the fitness center with robes, spa items and swimwear. The Kaffeehaus sells Austrian and Vermont pantry gifts like Darbo jams, crackers and baked goods.
No matter where guests find themselves on the von Trapp journey, hospitable associates are there to share. Staff are trained not just to ring transactions, but to answer questions about the property, family and history.
Kristina laughs, “They all get asked if they are a von Trapp.”
There’s usually one within eyeshot.
There’s a von Trapp way and connecting extends to staff. Kristina leans in to associates who are an extension of the family business during long, busy days and works to “keep spirits up” during rushes. Sometimes this means giving a team member an outdoor breather, other times she’s handing out imported chocolates from Salzburg. She makes sure everyone is treated the same. “We all hustle,” she says.
During charter bus arrival days, operations shift into high-volume mode with multiple registers, pre-staged books and tight coordination. Retail becomes choreography. It’s always personal.
“People share their stories with us, too, and they’re very intimate stories so we are very respectful of that,” Kristina says of soaking in the way The Sound of Music and von Trapp story has made an imprint on so many lives in small and big ways.
One guest shared how her deaf mother learned to lip read by watching The Sound of Music. Another visitor named three of her children after von Trapps.
“People have brought it into their lives in extremely personal ways,” Kristina says.
And when guests leave the Vermont green hills with a tangible memory, they’re carrying a piece of a place that made an impact.
Ever pragmatic and connected to the outdoors — more garden than gala, more feeding the cows than fueling social feeds — Kristina continues sharing the family story with guests from around the world.
“When you’re here, everything boils down to what’s important to you, what you can let go of,” she says. “It’s a time to reflect, connect with nature and leave with your story.” SGN
Museum souvenirs play an important role in generating revenue and engaging customers at a critical time for museums.
STORY BY MEGAN SMALLEY
Overlooking the Delaware River in Philadelphia, the Independence Seaport Museum has been interpreting the city’s story to visitors through its maritime roots since 1961. In recent years, that storytelling mission has taken on a refreshed view. Since the arrival of a new CEO four years ago, the museum has prioritized refreshing exhibits and rethinking visitor experience — a strategy that included the 2021 reopening of its gift shop.
“There was a store years and years ago, but previous management of the museum decided to close it,” says Public Engagement Manager Andrea Pollock. Since reopening, Pollock says the store has been steadily growing its collection of souvenirs from just a few T-shirts and books to a curated selection of souvenirs from model ship kits to relevant plush, Philadelphia name-drop magnets and jewelry that all ties to the museum and its mission.
For many institutions like the Independence Seaport Museum, the muse-
um store is critical for both added revenue and enhancing the visitor experience. Added revenue of any sort is especially important for museums today. According to the American Alliance of Museums’ annual report released in November 2025, many museums are facing financial challenges related to declining attendance, and about one-third of museums have had reductions in government grant or contract funding.
Amid ongoing financial pressures, museum stores are increasingly stepping in to offset revenue shortfalls while keeping visitors engaged.
Pollock has also noted a rise in budget constraints across institutions, with some exploring options like outsourcing retail operations or downsizing their stores.
“People sometimes take for granted what
the museum store brings to the museum,” she says. “It’s not just a little extra money — it’s helping with everything from name recognition to revenue to getting people excited about the museum and seeing cool products online or out and about.”
Museum retailers emphasize that a mix of custom souvenirs and attentive customer service turns their stores into must-stop shops, making them indispensable assets to their institutions.
Souvenirs tied to the museum exhibits are always big for Pollock and her team at the Independence Seaport Museum. At the museum, visitors can climb on the historic USS Olympia and USS Becuna. Pollock says the museum store features popular challenge coins tied to both the Olympia and the Becuna.
“The challenge coins are custom made and I’ve heard they’re really popular in different museums and national parks,” she adds.
In Peoria, Illinois, the Peoria Riverfront Museum is devoted to a variety of disciplines, including art, history, science and achievement. Chief Strategy Officer Kate Schureman says she carefully organizes the store in a way to make sure all those different themes are represented throughout the store. One section is dedicated to classic art, another science souvenirs, one spot for natural history and then impulse buys tied to movies playing at the museum’s theater.
Knowing that many school groups will frequent the museum store, Schureman says plushies are regularly a top seller. She says both kids and adults enjoy the popular Celestial Buddies plush line that ties to the museum’s planetarium.
“They are a unique item that for our Peoria community, you can only get them here at the store,” she adds.
“They’ve gone along well with a lot of our programming that we’ve done in the planetarium, so much so that families will come in to collect them.”
For aviation museums like the Frontiers of Flight in Dallas, almost everyone wants to take home an aviation or plane-themed souvenir. Store Manager Liz Meaders says model plane kits that remind customers of planes and aircraft they saw on display are often top picks.
“Some of our big names include Daron, which is known for their aviation model kits,” she says. “They have a massive catalog of Southwest and other airline models like American, Delta or Jet Blue. We’re constantly ordering from them, every month.”
Eye-catching custom-made souvenirs also perform well in many museum stores. Meaders says the Frontiers of Flight store regularly sells its custom magnets that feature the museum’s iconic Vought V-173 Flying Pancake plane.
“Our Flying Pancake merch is big,” she says. At the Independence Seaport Museum,
visitors enjoy a Boat Nerd line of customized products the store made in collaboration with Custom Popcorn Products.
“One of our mugs that says, ‘Boat Nerd’ and has nautical flags is something that’s really popular,” explains Pollock.
“People sometimes take for granted what the museum store brings to the museum.”
— ANDREA POLLOCK, INDEPENDENCE SEAPORT MUSEUM
When Peoria County was celebrating its bicentennial in 2025, Schureman says she and her team saw an opportunity to offer souvenirs tied to the historic celebration. With the celebration’s theme dubbed the “Peoria County Bison-tennial,” Schureman says the museum store offered a lot of custom-made souvenirs featuring bison and logos tied to the milestone.
“We did a line working with Soft Stuff Creations as well as a couple of local artists,” she
says. “We had a line of stickers, magnets and then mini bison plush with a T-shirt that had the Peoria County centennial logo on it. We are the only place that you could actually purchase those in the community, and we still have them because we’re running that campaign through 2026 as part of America250, so those have been very popular.”
Riverfront Museum store as well as rock candy. Schureman adds that small plush toys like Palm Pals from Aurora and keychain plushies from Stuffed States USA also are a hit with the field trippers.
“Those are just a great size for kids and a great price point,” she explains of the Palm Pals and keychain plush from Stuffed States USA.
“Aside from a small store at the airport, we’re really the only place in town that you can get Peoria-related merchandise.” — KATE SCHUREMAN, PEORIA RIVERFRONT MUSEUM
Outside of the county’s bicentennial, Schureman says customized souvenirs with the Peoria name drop are big for the store.
She explains, “Aside from a small store at the airport, we’re really the only place in town that you can get Peoria-related merchandise.”
As popular field trip destinations, many museum stores also make sure they have a strong selection of kid-friendly souvenirs.
A simple bag of rocks always goes over with the kids at the Peoria
Meaders says the Frontiers of Flight Museum has about 72,000 students visiting every year, so she makes sure one corner of the store is just for the kids, filled with books, toys and plush.
“One big toy distributor we use is Wow Toys for the model kits and aviation-type toys,” she says. “Then on the educational side, we purchase from Harper Collins Publishing for a lot of our kids’ books.”
At the Independence Seaport Museum, Pollock says impulse items tend to do well with the kids.
“I’m always asking my museum
friends, ‘What’s doing best for school groups?’ A lot of times, one kid gets into something and then they all do,” she explains.
Lately, she has noticed that locally made knitted plush toys are big with the kids. “We carry a lot of things for under $10 that do really well with the school groups,” she says. “But we also have things for kids that we know their families might buy for them, like building kits or larger stuffed animals.”
Sometimes a store refresh helps to encourage more museum visitors to pop into the store. In April 2025, the Frontiers of Flight Museum remodeled its store to make it more inviting. The store also adopted a new motto: Flight Mode On.
“Like when you’re on a plane, you turn flight mode on your phone to not worry about distraction. That’s what we want this space to be — a
place to relax and enjoy,” Meaders says.
Helping visitors take home something that pieces together stories seen and experienced in the museum is also a goal for Pollock and her team at the Independence Seaport Museum.
“Museums are really important in telling the history of society,” she says. “Being able to connect the products we sell to that mission, to that history, is really special.” SGN
The Museum Store Association is hosting its MSA Forward Annual Conference & Expo May 19-22 in Philadelphia. New for this year, all MSA members can receive free registration for the conference and expo.
In addition to an expo hall with vendors, the show features a keynote from Julie Steiner of the Barnes Foundation on how to use data to advocate for the museum store, along with other education and networking opportunities.
Visit MSA’s website for more details on the conference at www.museumstoreassociation.org.
DESTINATION RETAILERS AND VENDORS SHARE HOW THEY PLAN TO COMMEMORATE AMERICA250 WITH HISTORIC SOUVENIRS.
STORY
BY
MEGAN SMALLEY
When the ball dropped in Times Square this January, a yearlong celebration kicked off across the country with 2026 marking America’s 250th birthday. Just as during the nation’s bicentennial, a wave of patriotism and nostalgia is expected to take over for this year’s semiquincentennial and is being reflected in retail offerings everywhere in the U.S. Some destination retailers even started celebrating this milestone as early as July 4, 2025.
The McKinley Presidential Library & Museum in Canton, Ohio, released a few commemorative America250 souvenirs last 4th of July to help spark interest.
“We wanted to start the excitement early and kick off a countdown. It gives people more time and opportunity to see what the excitement is about,” says Lou Lewis, gift shop manager and volunteer coordinator for the museum.
Lewis says the gift shop has steadily expanded its America250 souvenir collection since that countdown began,
Eastern National’s Independence National Historical Association park store displays America250 souvenirs.
starting with just a few commemorative coins and magnets from Americana Souvenirs to snow globes, shot glasses, banners and even a locally made ornament.
to mugs and plush.
The Mississippi Agriculture and Forestry Museum also gave its guests a taste of its America250 merchandise early in its gift shop, debuting a wall of America250 mugs from Sunset Hill Stoneware last November. The store also carries some commemorative T-shirts, coasters, ornaments and caps.
“We wanted to get them in so folks could buy some for Christmas gifts,” says Todd Ward, store manager for the Mississippi Agriculture and Forestry Museum in Jackson, Mississippi.
“We wanted to start the excitement early and kick off a countdown. It gives people more time and opportunity to see what the excitement is about.” — LOU LEWIS, THE MCKINLEY PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY & MUSEUM
Ward says America250 ties in seamlessly to the mission of the museum.
“The general premise of the museum is we’re a replica of a 1920’s Mississippi small town,” he says. “With us basically being a replica of 100 years ago in Mississippi, we have kind of always expressed a patriotic feel.”
Ward says he plans to keep the America250 section going strong throughout the year. “If customers see the excitement, see our flags up, it might spark something in them to have a patriotic feel and enjoy the celebration,” he says.
Destination retailers looking to add some last-minute America250 souvenirs have countless options, as the official America250 Commission partnered with over 200 licensees that have developed America250-specific merchandise, from apparel and jewelry to drinkware.
Jennifer Condon, executive vice president of the America250 Commission, says the commission has been busy over the last two years finding vendors and developing partnerships to help Americans celebrate this year.
“Really for the past 18 months in earnest, we have been working to engage 350 million Americans by the 250th,” she says. “What’s been important to us is ensuring every American can see themselves in the narrative of the 250th. We want to be sure the celebration is accessible to all Americans.”
To date, America250 has just over 200 licensees with a range of 2,000 to 5,000 licensed products. Condon says she anticipates commemorative patriotic ornaments might be big sellers this year, especially those with the America250 logo.
Kurt Adler is one of the America250 licensees and has released some officially licensed ornaments this past year as well as some other patriotic-themed ornaments and decor to complement the collection — think Santas and Nutcrackers wearing tricorn hats and a bedazzled Liberty Bell ornament.
“We started with a small collection but quickly this became a large theme for us,” says Michael Adler, account manager at Kurt Adler. “We played with it for a little bit and kept adding as we got excited about it and customers got more excited about it.”
Becoming an America250 licensee was also a good fit for Stuffed States USA, which offers plushies in the shape of the U.S. and each of its states. The company released two new plush designs just for America250 — a USA Mascot Stuffed State and American Flag Stuffed State.
“Almost everything in the U.S. can be aligned with the 250, and all aspects of the American life are uniquely part of the American experience.”
— JENNIFER CONDON, AMERICA250 COMMISSION
“These designs already existed for us, so it was truly special to have them recognized as a natural fit for the America250 celebration by the team at America250.org,” says Owner Stacey McLaughlin. “The collaboration felt very organic because the pieces already
As a thank-you gift to customers, the McKinley Presidential Library & Museum in Canton, Ohio, has been offering customers free totes with a bald eagle design from Fiesta Toy for purchases of $50 or more. Gift Shop Manager Lou Lewis says the patriotic totes have been a hit with guests this year.
“We’ve gone through 200 totes so far,” she says. “We’re celebrating a birthday — a pretty big one. Having a special giveaway like this has attracted customers.”
celebrated American pride, were accessible for all ages and were educational to boot.”
Some of the companies releasing America250 souvenirs hope people collect these keepsakes
“If customers see the excitement, see our flags up, it might spark something in them to have a patriotic feel and enjoy the celebration.”
— TODD WARD, THE MISSISSIPPI AGRICULTURE AND FORESTRY MUSEUM
at various attractions across the country.
Eastern National, which oversees retail and related services at about 250 public lands stores, manages the popular Passport To Your National Parks program that invites visitors to collect ink stamps from national park units in the country. For America250, Creative Director Jason Scarpello says the company has developed The Passport To The American Revolution, along with free, limited-edition America250 ink stamps to collect in the special passports in 2026.
He adds that Eastern National is an official America250 licensee, with some commemora-
tive products available for wholesale and that can be found at America’s National Parks stores, including stickers, apparel and stoneware mugs.
“We’re finding that people are in the mood to commemorate and celebrate the founding of America,” Scarpello says.
For America250, Better Magnets created several magnet designs for each of the 50 states. T Schoen, licensing director for Better Magnets, says some new designs look like license plates and others look like postage stamps, one for each of the 50 states.
Since the company only plans to sell its America250 licensed magnets until Oct. 15, Schoen says she’s hopeful the time-sensitive nature of these products will encourage more people to collect them before they’re gone.
Some vendors and retailers are also diving heavily into Americana and military motifs.
Spoontiques, another America250 licensed vendor, has debuted both new souvenirs with the America250 logo and some patriotic-themed gifts. Vice President of Sales Don Lehman says he thinks Americana-themed products might nicely supplement America250 merchandise displays this year.
He adds, “Americana and military motifs sell all throughout the year.”
Leaning into that phenomenon, Kurt Adler is promoting fun Americana ornaments and decor along with its America250-logoed products.
“Start with a small collection, but also have variety,” Adler advises retailers.
Condon notes that just about any gift shop or attraction can be successful with America250
merchandise this year — it just comes down to understanding customers and strategic storytelling with store displays.
“Almost everything in the U.S. can be aligned with the 250, and all aspects of the American life are uniquely part of the American experience,” she says, noting that just about any store can incorporate red-white-and-blue into displays in an authentic way leading up to the 4th of July.
She adds, “This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to help bridge divides and bring Americans together in celebration of the world’s greatest experiment in democracy. It’s a time to come together to proudly display the American flag and all other patriotic products.” SGN
State-shaped cutting boards, magnets and mugs can help people enjoy America250 at home.
Putting a spotlight on sustainable and conservation-focused souvenirs can win over customers while also helping the environment and others.
STORY BY MEGAN SMALLEY
When Beaches & Beyond opened a souvenir store inside the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center several years ago, both conservation and sustainability tied into much of the merchandise.
“Our store is run by Indiana Dunes Tourism,” says Retail Director Linda Palko. “Our organization is passionate about sustainability. Everyone who works for Indiana Dunes Tourism cares about protecting the area, doing things the right way and doing that with the merchandise we carry, too.”
Conservation-focused tees and wildlife tracking bracelets are front and center at The Nature Nook gift shop in Vero Beach, Florida.
Palko says she has focused on finding eco-friendly and locally made gifts and souvenirs for the visitor center gift shop. Some products tie to both those aspects, such as apparel from Me O My Earth.
“They make fabric using recycled plastic bottles,” she says. “I’m also pursuing a company that makes beach blankets 100% made from recycled fabrics.”
Knowing that many visitors bring their dogs to the park, Palko says the store also carries dog leashes made from recycled bike tubes from Cycle Dog.
And to help customers to better understand the Great Lakes, Beaches & Beyond carries socks from GeoSox that feature the surficial geology map of the Dunes area to educate visitors about geology in a fun way. Palko says the store recently began selling 1,000-piece puzzles from
GeoSox that educate and entertain people on the water basin, with proceeds from those sales going to Sea Grant.
“Not everybody gets to live near something like the Indiana Dunes and the lake,” Palko adds. “We see every day how important it is to protect nature and take care of it and do things the right way. We want these types of areas and nature to be here for generations to come.”
To be sure, many destination retailers at parks and zoos share a common interest in carrying conservation-focused and sustainable souvenirs given that these attractions often have missions focused on protecting the land and animals on-site. But Palko says she has seen interest in sustainably made goods rise across the board.
Prior to her time at Beaches & Beyond with Indiana Dunes Tourism, Palko worked for many years at a major big-box retailer, where she noticed an increase in customers expressing interest in eco-friendly products.
“As each year went by, more people were concerned with finding bamboo or wood instead of Teflon-coated utensils,” she recalls.
Regardless of the destination or attraction, more customers factor conservation and sustainability into their purchases. For those passionate about it, they seek souvenirs that both delight and do good.
The Saint Louis Zoo actively considers ways to incorporate both conservation-focused and sustainable souvenirs into its two gift shops on-site.
Retail Manager Tommy Brown says he looks at three criteria when adding conservation-focused souvenirs. “When purchasing conservation items, one must look at the materials used, the impact on the ecosystems and treatment of the people,” he says.
Some sustainable and conservation-focused brands are known top sellers at Saint Louis Zoo’s stores. A big one is wood-crafted animal figurines from companies like EarthView or Stoneage Arts, with both companies passionate about the environment. SS Handcrafted also has a conservation element, giving back to The Turtleman Foundation in support of sea turtles.
“Rocks are about as green as you can get, as long as they are processed naturally and don’t have harsh chemical dyes,” explains Brown.
The zoo has also partnered with some conservationminded vendors. In 2018, Brown says the Saint Louis Zoo partnered with Stoneage Arts to develop a high-end stone cellphone holder shaped like a giraffe.
“We wanted to develop a product that would both sell and be useful, too,” he shares. “Some people don’t just want another tchotchke — they want something they can actually utilize.”
With all products, Brown adds that it’s important to consider eco-friendly alternative options. He says products with the Certified B Corp label are almost always sustainably made.
“Conservation means using without destroying or depleting resources, and many stores should strive for that in their purchasing habits,” Brown says. “Look for alternative things to buy instead of buying items that directly harm and deplete resources.”
Conservation-focused souvenirs are a natural fit at The Nature Nook boutique at the Environmental Learning Center in Vero Beach, Florida. Located on Wabasso Island, the Environmental
native and environmentally friendly products.
“We try to look at environmentally friendly products, especially products that are made locally,” says Cheryl George, guest services manager at the Environmental Learning Center. “As an organization, we do our best to protect what we love and stay away from single-use plastic and other harmful materials as much as possible.”
With many people coming to the center to take a pontoon boat ride or kayak in the lagoon, George says she stocks some eco-friendly beach essentials in the store. She adds that one popular brand is Florida Glow, which has reef-friendly sunscreen products.
Customers also enjoy eco-friendly apparel and jewelry at The Nature Nook. George says she recently added UPF 50 sun-protection T-shirts from Mang Apparel, which the center works with to support wildlife conservation efforts. She adds that Ja Bebo earrings made of recycled cereal boxes also sell well for the store.
“When
purchasing conservation items, one must look at the materials used, the impact on the ecosystems and treatment of the people.”
— TOMMY BROWN, THE SAINT LOUIS ZOO
Learning Center is a 64-acre nature preserve and education center in the middle of the Indian River Lagoon, featuring playscapes, aquariums, walking trails, camps and pontoon trips. All the store’s merchandise relates in some way to wildlife and nature found in Florida, focusing on
Plush from Wild Republic and Aurora are big toy sellers for The Nature Nook, and George says all of these plushies feature animals that can be found in Florida.
Similarly, when the store added Fahlo bracelets last year, she ensured that the store only stocked ones that track animals native to Florida, such as dolphins, manatees, sharks and sea turtles.
“We don’t want to carry anything animal-wise
that can’t be found here in the state of Florida,” says George. “It doesn’t necessarily have to be found in this lagoon, but it’s got to represent what we have here on the island.”
For conservation-focused retailers, sustainability is seldom an after-
Up in the front of The Nature Nook, George says she features a table that highlights different conservation themes every month, engaging customers in the story behind these eco-conscious finds.
Beaches & Beyond also highlights products that do good up front in the store to pique customers’ inter-
“Sometimes we can’t do the big things to make an impact, but we can do small things, whether it’s the products we sell or the messaging on what we can do.” — LINDA PALKO, BEACHES & BEYOND
thought hidden in the back of the store. It’s often brought front and center in ways customers won’t forget.
One way to connect customers to sustainable souvenirs is to share stories about those products, through marketing and in-store promotions.
“People love stories, and they want to be a part of a good story,” says Brown. “If you can tell the story of the products through signs, QR codes, social media or by word of mouth, you will create interest in your products.”
est, changing themes throughout the year. And outside of the store, Palko says the Indiana Dunes Tourism organization has promoted conservation efforts through events and marketing campaigns.
“Sometimes we can’t do the big things to make an impact, but we can do small things, whether it’s the products we sell or the messaging on what we can do,” says Palko. “It’s good to feel that you can do something — the little things all add up to big things.”
SGN
Sometimes destination retailers can advance sustainable and conservation-focused causes with the help of partner organizations. In 2025, Indiana Dunes Tourism along with its Beaches & Beyond gift shop partnered with the Dr. Seuss Foundation for its Love & Protect the Dunes mission.
“The Dr. Seuss Foundation launched a nationwide Lorax-themed campaign in partnership with national parks tourism organizations to promote responsible outdoor recreation,” says Linda Palko, retail director for Indiana Dunes Tourism’s Beaches & Beyond gift shop. “Indiana Dunes Tourism was selected as a pilot partner for the program.”
Working with the foundation’s marketing team, Indiana Dunes Tourism helped to develop Lorax activity sheets that introduce simple, family-friendly messages about caring for natural spaces and practicing responsible recreation. Indiana Dunes Tourism was given access to an official Lorax mascot costume, used during Porter County’s Earth Day celebration. Tied to the marketing efforts, the gift shop began carrying Lorax-themed merchandise as well as Dr. Seuss books to help people further commemorate this cause
Wildlife conservation is a key part of Call For The Wild through its products and hands-on involvement in rescue efforts and organizations.
Call For The Wild isn’t simply a wildlife-themed product company — it’s a mission-first nonprofit built to fund real conservation work. Rooted in the belief that business can — and should — serve a greater purpose, the organization channels every sale into meaningful impact for endangered species and the people working tirelessly to protect them.
“We
strive to educate, motivate, and fund the important work of wildlife rescue, research, and conservation.”
— BILLY CAMPISCIANO
“Our goal has always been to fund the people doing the hard work on the front lines of conservation,” says Founder Billy Campisciano. “We exist to raise money for rescue and research and conservation organizations — and we rely on
our retail partners to help us tell that story.”
Each product is designed to spark curiosity and deepen understanding, connecting children and families to species-specific information and conservation partners.
The Wild Heart Rescue Animal line is just one example. It features 30 species spanning marine life, zoo animals, North American wildlife and desert habitats. A simple phone tap to the animal’s heart unlocks educational content, animal tracking and real-world rescue stories, while an identification card extends the learning experience.
With a product range of Education al toys, gifts and accessories, Call For The Wild continues to build a community of stores committed to helping conservation. By carrying the line, retailers aren’t just offering engaging, educational merchandise — they are helping transform everyday retail moments into meaningful action for wildlife.
Smart store flow, themed groupings and strategic resets turn toy and game displays into discovery zones.
Merchandising is all fun and games when store layout turns browsing into discovery.
For Sam Rickenbaugh, owner of The Great Rocky Mountain Toy Company in Bozeman, Montana, this philosophy is rooted in a lifetime surrounded by retail. His mother owned a high-end home decor and gift shop, and his father operated a sporting goods store. Growing up around retail, merchandising and customer relationships became second nature.
After working in real estate, he learned the longtime downtown
A
toy store he had visited as a child was for sale and stepped in to continue its 30-plus-year legacy.
Today, his connection to the toy store shapes how he thinks about layout, product storytelling and creating a space where customers stick around and return to rediscover favorites and find games.
Inside the classic toy shop, the categories are clear but the path is anything but direct. This is on purpose. Rickenbaugh places destination brands with
Rocky Mountain Toy Company groups merchandise by type and then by brand. “When you look at a section, you’re looking at one category,” Rickenbaugh says. “Within that category, you see the brand you know and love in the middle, with other brands around it to create a story.”
Games, for example, are arranged so shoppers immediately recognize the store as a game destination for all play styles and ages.
“We want customers to walk through the entire store and ‘ooh’ and ‘ahh’ at everything else before they get to what they came for.”
— SAM RICKENBAUGH, OWNER OF ROCKY MOUNTAIN TOY COMPANY
intention — especially LEGO, which lives at the back of the store.
“We want customers to walk through the entire store and ‘ooh’ and ‘ahh’ at everything else before they get to what they came for,” he says.
The mix reinforces the store’s identity as a place for family game night, college friend groups and serious hobbyists alike, a key factor in a market where Montana State University students join local families as core customers. Rickenbaugh makes sure store displays
appeal to a crowd, especially considering the store’s biggest competitors are Amazon and Target. But because of the experience Rocky Mountain Toy’s displays deliver, it’s tapping into a “new generation that is shopping in person for toys,” says Rickenbaugh. “We see more people trying to shop local and shop in-store.”
This is also the case at Pebbles Toys & Gifts in New Haven, Connecticut, where a Yale campus constituency will pop in for a specialty toy in its educational language-learning section. Theme-based merchandising is key in the 960-square-foot shop, says Lauren Coleman, store manager.
“We set up our store not by age but by section,” she says, also avoiding brand-based displays because she wants to introduce guests to products they won’t find in a big box store.
With anchor toy-and-game displays centered on topics like science, pretend play, crafts, heirloom toys and learning, Coleman also features seasonal motifs, such as spring or holiday.
“We are looking for diversity,” she adds, relating that associates lean in to customers’ remarks and requests. These conversations guide buying choices and product placement in the shop.
“When you’re putting something out, you have to think about what’s behind you, next to you and on the other side,” says Coleman. “It needs to be the same customer.”
Merchandising with an adjacency-by-category state of mind at Pebbles Toys & Gifts means microscopes and STEM toys share space with books about space and microorganisms.
The section balances price points, too, from a showstopping telescope to small grab-andgo kits. This way, every shopper finds an entry
Responding to the international Yale community, Pebbles Toys & Gifts’ Store Manager Lauren Coleman built a Language & Learning section combining bilingual games, wooden language blocks and vocabulary bingo. An assortment of plush food characters and tactile elements add whimsy. “We’re still a toy store,” she notes. “Educational toys need to look fun.”
Coleman offers her top three merchandising pointers.
#1PRESENT BY ADJACENCY. Group science with books and building toys, or language games with plush and puzzles. “The same customer” should find something in every direction.
#2BUILD URGENCY Limited quantities and curated selections signal that finds are special, not mass-market. Coleman leaves out a couple of each item, no more, for space and sales purposes.
#3RELOCATE VS. MARK DOWN. If something stalls, give it a new home within a different theme or customer zone. Coleman says, “Don’t give up on something if you believe in it. If it inspired something in you, build it out within a display before you give up on the product.”
point. Enticement is the merchandising ticket. “Our displays are colorful and we only put a couple of each item out at a time,” says Coleman. Materials and aesthetic also matter. Coleman favors sustainable brands and heirloom-quality designs that feel special and gift-worthy.
For instance, craft kits by Djeco and Mindware are positioned with Tender Leaf pretend play sets. Always thinking motif, Coleman might build a display with a craft kit of fair potions, a fairies matching game, books and plush.
“You can really make stories here,” she says.
Merging themed storytelling with carefully placed brand focal points is the merchandising strategy at Tate & Tilly in Tampa, Florida.
Owner Amy McDermott notes that “Jellycat stands alone.” The plush brand’s display standards mean the assortment lives together in a defined area with cubby storage and oversized
“It’s all about gifts, gifts, gifts. I want customers moving from one display to the next, adding items as they go.”
— AMY MCDERMOTT, TATE & TILLY
statement pieces. Placement is strategic: the Jellycat section is toward the back of the store, encouraging customers to travel through gift, decor and accessory displays along the way.
McDermott also favors cross-category merchandising. “It’s all about gifts, gifts, gifts,” she says. “I want customers moving from one display to the next, adding items as they go.”
She knows that static shelves can lose sales. This is why she refreshes displays by simply relocating products.
Rickenbaugh also works toward major store resets every few months. While he likes to group brands together with defined sections, giving customers a category at a time to view, these periodic shifts allow for working in new items and repositioning others.
Since at least 60% of customers are returning multiple times, the layout and display refreshes are crucial for capturing attention at every visit. It’s about staying on top of trends while carrying the old favorites, Rickenbaugh says.
Merchandising as a cohesive shop-withina-shop that includes dedicated areas for toys, games, plush, infant and tween gifts has given Tate & Tilly’s customer base a connection to the store, no matter their age and stage.
McDermott adds that fun and games can be for everyday and all occasions as long as they’re displayed to sell. SGN
OWNER: Kelly Dawes
BESTSELLERS:
All things Buckeye — apparel, decor, accessories
STORY BY KRISTEN HAMPSHIRE
Dawes is always ready for the game at College Traditions. Photos: Robb McCormick
Buckeye spirit takes center stage at College Traditions, which has decades of game-day tradition.
The Ohio State marching band music begins the moment customers open their car doors. Life-size statues of the mascot Brutus Buckeye and legendary coach Woody Hayes anchor the front entrance. A sweeping 15-by-70-foot mural depicting Ohio State landmarks spans the side of the building.
For Buckeye fans, stepping into College Traditions is far more than a pit-stop for gear on the way to the game. It’s an immersive encounter spanning every category, chock full of scarlet-and-gray finds that have won generations of crowd support.
“I want our customers to feel like a kid at Disney World,” says owner Kelly Dawes, who has devoted nearly four decades to shaping what is now the largest locally
owned Ohio State retailer in Columbus. “We’re not just a Buckeye store. We’re a Buckeye experience.”
Dawes seeks out a mix of staples and unexpected gifts for customers.
“For apparel, we differentiate with varying fabrics, embellishments in tackle twill, and we’re aware of what everyone else is doing so we can work with vendors for different designs, graphics and detail,” says Dawes.
Meanwhile, Dawes fields a turnstile of sales calls from “anyone with an Ohio State licensing agreement,” she says. The longstanding College Traditions outpost has earned a national reputation with vendors for its high-traffic sales.
Longevity and location are business drivers. “You can see the stadium from our front door and we’re just a block away,” Dawes says.
College Traditions started in 1984 with Dawes’ business partner, Nancy Muldoon, who envisioned a main-drag Lane Avenue shop solely dedicated to Buckeye pride. Muldoon and her husband, Sam, purchased the former Stadium Garage next to Dawes’ father’s bar, The Varsity Club. They transformed the 1,900-square-foot auto shop into a fan-focused store that has evolved into a Buckeye mecca.
Dawes officially joined in 1988 after working in restaurant operations and retail management. In 1997, she proposed an expansion to modernize the shop and increase its inventory potential. The renovation added more than 2,300 square feet with a completely upgraded exterior.
“Once we did that facelift, that’s when we truly started to see growth,” Dawes relates. The extra space sets the stage for what has become an expansive 2,000-plus-SKU selection that draws Buckeye fans year-round to a lively
environment that’s a pre-game, after-party and everything in-between destination for locals, visitors, ticketholders and students. Beyond this core customer base is a constant stream of people attending camps or conferences.
What’s inside is a blend of nostalgia, team spirit and pure fun. Shelves are packed floor to ceiling with Ohio State merchandise.
Apparel spans newborn sizes through 5X, with silhouettes that appeal to students, parents, alumni — and pets. In fact, items for the four-footed constituency represent a growing category. Home decor includes blankets, pillows, kitchen textiles, wall art and lawn and garden accessories.
Dawes will consider
any touchdown trinket or Buckeye statement piece. “What I love so much about this place is how people come in here and they are true Buckeye fans,” Dawes says. “They want stuff for their house, and we have everything you can display inside and out.”
“What I love so much about this place is how people come in here and they are true Buckeye fans. They want stuff for their house, and we have everything you can display inside and out.”
Also on the top of customers’ lists: headwear. This top-selling category extends beyond ballcaps. The store offers visors, bucket hats, a Gatsby hat, cowboy hats, hard hats and a stuffed Buckeye nut hat that was popular 20 years ago and is gaining traction today, Dawes reports. The plush hat is by Mascot Factory and a unique find for fans. Meanwhile, two walls and a shelving bay are devoted to Ohio State holiday ornaments from vendors including Old World Christmas, CDI, Neil Enterprises, Sutter’s Mill and Ox Bay.
— KELLY DAWES
A major draw is the store’s Nike account, which Dawes says is “the biggest thing going for us.” Nike is the onfield company for Ohio State, so College Traditions has access to stocking its field and coaches’ items, along with jerseys, coaches’ jackets, and team-issue T-shirts.
Competition exists just two doors down and Dawes embraces it. “Competition makes you
better,” she says. She regularly checks competitors’ assortments, stays tuned to vendor distribution and collaborates on exclusive designs, graphics and embellishment techniques to ensure College Traditions stays distinct.
A typical weekday team includes Dawes, a manager, a full-time staff member and two or three part-time student associates. Football Saturdays are a different operation entirely. The store brings in about 20 employees, including longtime team members who return just for the season. Register count increases from three to as many as eight, with mobile checkout stations set up outdoors for passing fans.
Game-day prep starts days in advance. Dawes evaluates weather forecasts, reviews warehouse inventory and uses rolling carts to pre-load merchandise for rapid restocking. A tent outside helps capture impulse buys — gloves, ponchos, seat cushions or sunglasses for fans heading to the stadium.
“There’s an art to what we do,” she says. “If there’s a line, we move people quickly.”
Football is the store’s biggest revenue driver, followed by the holidays, graduation season, Parents Weekend and summer orientations. The team adapts quickly, adding sport-specific shirts as camp seasons shift the customer base.
Dawes’ merchandising hallmark is her reliance on face-outs.
“I want people to immediately see the product,” she says. The store’s “THE T-Shirt Shop,” a nod to Ohio State’s identity as The Ohio State University, carries 35 to 40 folded designs displayed with precision. Customers regularly comment on the store’s tidiness and layout, which Dawes views as essential to the experience.
From giving to staffing to serving customers, every aspect of College Traditions is personal.
The retailer supports the Stefanie Spielman Breast Cancer Foundation, an effort inspired by former Ohio State linebacker Chris Spielman’s late wife. The store keeps donation boxes up year-round and hosts a register campaign every October.
Meanwhile, College Traditions continues as a family tradition. Dawes’ sister handles ware-
house operations, and her three children grew up working the registers from the time they were tall enough to reach them. Today, they still show up for major events, holiday surges and championship “hot market” periods when the store can run 70-hour weeks.
“It’s so much deeper than Ohio State clothing,” she says. “Customers tell us about their Buckeye basements and we walk out to look at their decorated cars. This is what they love and we get to be a part of it.”
She credits her partner, Muldoon — now 86 and still involved — with the idea that started everything. “This was her dream,” Dawes says. “I thank Nancy. I love my job. This is where I want to be.” SGN
STORY BY KRISTEN HAMPSHIRE
The National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum blends novelty, nostalgia and smart gift shop strategy.
There are museums dedicated to art, history, science and sports. And then there’s the one where presidents, mascots, movie icons and pop-culture legends all share the same stage and have a common trait: a nonstop nodding head.
Inside the National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum in Milwaukee, visitors can explore more than 10,000 unique bobbleheads spanning sports, politics, entertainment, comics and current events. What began as a passion project between co-founders Phil Sklar and Brad Novak has grown into a hybrid of museum, manufacturer and fast-moving specialty retail brand.
“The bobbleheads are the stars, but we make sure other merchandise is visible and easy to shop.”
— PHIL SKLAR, CO-FOUNDER
Right now, the timing couldn’t be better. With America’s 250th birthday celebration this year, the museum’s production arm is rolling out historically themed releases, including a just-unveiled Declaration of Independence bobblehead puzzle set.
But for Sklar, the real magic is in the museum’s novelty and how visitors end up bobbing for connections. Sklar shares his perspective about how the museum grew from a hobby to a
national brand, what sells in the gift shop, and why bobbleheads remain one of retail’s most surprisingly durable categories.
Q
How did a personal collection turn into a national museum?
A: Brad and I both grew up collecting sports cards, and that collecting mindset carried over to bobbleheads in the early 2000s. We started circling giveaway dates on minor league calendars and realized there was a resale market. A bobblehead from a game could sell for $100 or more. As our collection grew into the thousands, we saw an opportunity to create something unique: a museum paired with a company that produces and markets original bobbleheads.
Q
You’re not just displaying bobbleheads. You’re making them. What’s your niche?
A: Our focus is on current events and people or topics that have never had a bobblehead — or haven’t had one in a long time. We’ve produced thousands over the past decade, from U.S. presidents to historic firsts, including the first bobbleheads for many Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) mascots. We have a growing list of licenses, from the Blue Man Group to Marilyn Monroe and Penguin Random House for children’s book characters like The Little Engine that Could. We also collaborate widely with colleges, organizations, pop culture brands, along with selling online through marketplaces and in retail outlets nationwide.
Q
How does the America’s 250th celebration fit into your product strategy?
A: It’s a two-pronged approach. We already have a lot of historically themed bobbleheads like presidents, monuments and figures like Martin Luther King Jr. We’re expanding that significantly. On Jan. 7, we unveiled our Declaration of Independence bobblehead puzzle set, featuring Thomas Jefferson, John Hancock, John Adams and Benjamin Franklin. Together, the four figures recreate the iconic painting scene. It’s a preorder item that will ship in June, and we’ll continue releasing figures tied to key dates and historical milestones throughout the year.
QWhat role does the museum gift shop play in the overall business?
A: It’s huge. We carry more than 500 unique bobbleheads for sale in the museum alone. Because visitors come from all over the country, we stock a wide range including regional teams, national figures and pop culture bobbleheads. Someone from Boston might grab a Red Sox mascot, someone from L.A. might want LeBron James. We also offer free shipping if someone buys in the museum and wants a figure we don’t have on hand.
QBeyond bobbleheads, how has your souvenir assortment evolved?
A: We’ve expanded a lot. Early on, we had just a few basics. Now we have 30 to 40 different souvenir items including T-shirts, magnets, pins, keychains, postcards, stickers and hats. Magnets, pins, keychains and postcards are consistently strong sellers. We see a mix of serious collectors and casual travelers looking for a fun, affordable keepsake.
Q
What feedback do you hear most from your visitors?
A: They can’t believe how many bobbleheads we have. Being overwhelmed in a good way is part of the experience. The variety and the chance to find something personal is what turns a visit into a purchase. SGN
March 17-19
ASD Marketweek
Las Vegas www.asdonline.com
April 14-16
The Reunion
Las Vegas www.thereunionexpo.com
May 19-22
MSA Forward Philadelphia www.museumstoreassociation.org
June 9-14
Atlanta Summer Market
Atlanta www.atlantamarket.com
MARCH
MARCH 3-5
Atlanta Spring Market Atlanta www.atlantamarket.com
MARCH 3-5
Great Lakes Gift Show Kalamazoo, Michigan www.greatlakesgiftshow.com
MARCH 8-9
Cape Cod & Islands Gift Show Falmouth, Massachusetts www.ccgiftshow.com
MARCH 8-11
Minneapolis Mart Minnetonka, Minnesota www.mplsmart.com
MARCH 10-11
The Indy Show Noblesville, Indiana www.silverliningshows.com
MARCH 14-16
New England Made Giftware & Specialty Food Shows Portland, Maine www.nemadeshows.com
MARCH 22-24
Northstar Fashion Exhibitors St. Paul, Minnesota www.northstarfashion.com
MARCH 22-24
Wisconsin Gift Show West Bend, Wisconsin www.wisconsingiftshow.com
MARCH 24-27
Apparel & Accessories Market and Gift & Home Market
Dallas www.dallasmarketcenter.com
MARCH 25-28
Impressions Expo
Atlantic City, New Jersey www.atlanticcity.impressionsexpo.com
MARCH 30 – APRIL 2
Atlanta Apparel
Atlanta www.atlanta-apparel.com
APRIL
APRIL 12-14
Northern Michigan Show Gaylord, Michigan www.nmgiftshow.com
APRIL 12-15
Minneapolis Mart Minnetonka, Minnesota www.mplsmart.com
APRIL 19-21
Trendz
Palm Beach, Florida www.trendzshow.com
APRIL 25-29
ANDMORE at High Point Market
High Point, North Carolina www.andmorehighpointmarket.com
MAY 4-5
Seattle Spring Buying Event
Seattle www.seattlemart.com
MAY 14-15
CARV Expo
San Diego www.carvexpo.com
MAY 29-31
GTS Greensboro Expo Greensboro, North Carolina www.gtshows.com
JUNE 5-8
Astra Marketplace & Academy Milwaukee www.ma.astratoy.org
JUNE 8-10
CMC LA Market Week
Los Angeles www.californiamarketcenter.com
JUNE 24-30
Dallas Total Home & Gift Market
Dallas www.dallasmarketcenter.com
The Winter 2026 edition of Las Vegas Market, held Jan. 25-29 at World Market Center Las Vegas, concluded on a high note. With strong order writing, a notable increase in buyers and a renewed sense of community, ANDMORE says the event reinforced its position as a major sourcing hub for home, gift and lifestyle industries on the West Coast.
Las Vegas Market attracted a dynamic mix of new and returning buyers from across the U.S. and around the globe, with growth in first-time buyers to the show. Exhibitors also reported a major increase in new account activity compared with 2025, underscoring the market’s strength as a driver of fresh business.
The show’s revamped branding also set the stage for deepening industry connections, offering opportunities for collaboration through networking events in the new “The Social” hub on-site bar.
Las Vegas Market returns for its Summer edition, July 26-30 at World Market Center Las Vegas.
Tens of thousands of buyers from across the U.S. attended the Dallas Total Home & Gift Market from Jan. 7-13 to browse hundreds of permanent showrooms in three buildings along with hundreds of temporary exhibitors in four locations.
Dallas Market Center announced that its most recent Total Home & Gift Market was the best attended January show in multiple years. The attendance increase was notable for a wider geographic reach, attracting retailers and interior designers from across the U.S. and internationally, with preliminary numbers showing the strongest growth from the western U.S.
“The energy on the floors this January was unmistakable,” said Cindy Morris, president and CEO of Dallas Market Center. “Strong attendance showed a renewed sense of confidence, with engaged retailers ready to invest in new product for the year ahead.”
The number of buyers attending the show for the first time saw an increase of more than 70%, supporting the shift in buyer loyalty to Dallas.
Beyond new product discovery, the Total Home & Gift Market offered programming designed to equip retailers. The Masters Series drew large crowds for live demonstrations. Retailers also enjoyed Speaking of Retail: A Collective of Conversations, offering candid, business-focused discussions.
The next Total Home & Gift Market takes place March 24-27 and runs concurrently with the Apparel & Accessories Market and KidsWorld.
Atlanta Market, held Jan. 13-19 at AmericasMart Atlanta, concluded its Winter edition show marked by strong order writing, high buyer satisfaction and a renewed sense of community.
ANDMORE reported that this show was its largest in two years, with a 5% increase in stores attending and a 15% increase in first-time buyers.
Exhibitors also shared that they experienced strong order writing during the seven-day market. “This is only our second show, but we’ve nearly doubled our sales from the last market and continue to learn more about how to improve our business from the buyers we’ve met,” said Nicole Northway of Emerson and Friends.
The summer edition of Atlanta Market will run June 9-14 at AmericasMart Atlanta, with temporaries opening June 10.
Surf Expo, a leading marketplace for watersports, coastal and outdoor lifestyle brands, started its landmark 50th year with a busy January show. With a 15% increase in attending retail companies, many leading brands and retail buyers converged for three days of commerce, signaling a strong market fueled by ongoing innovation and consumer demand.
“Surf Expo January reflected a market that is confident and ready to do business,” said Roy Turner, show director. “Buyers weren’t just browsing — they came with plans shaped by strong holiday performance and a clear vision for the year ahead.”
He added, “The milestone symbolized five decades of launching products, supporting retailers, building careers and serving as the heartbeat of coastal commerce. The energy on the show floor was undeniably upbeat and positive. Brands elevated their presentations, many bringing athletes and influencers to amplify excitement and engagement.”
Show organizers said the show floor “buzzed with optimism,” setting up a confident trajectory for 2026. Following a solid holiday season and strong fourth quarter, buyers arrived with open-to-buy budgets and clear strategies.
The show featured a broadened exhibitor lineup with robust representation across apparel, accessories and lifestyle products. The show also expanded its Shoreline Outdoor category, which show organizers said was an intentional move in response to demand from today’s consumer who blends surf, travel and outdoor recreation into a seamless lifestyle.
The Rocky Mountain Apparel, Gift & Resort Show closed its Winter 2026 edition with a sold-out expo floor and its strongest attendance in years. Buyer turnout jumped 30% over the previous year at the show, which took place Feb. 10-13 in Denver. Roughly onethird of buyers were first-time attendees.
Organized by RedlineXpo, the four-day event brought together more than 220 exhibitors and 600-plus brands with retailers from across the Mountain region, including ski resort gift shops, national park stores, boutiques and specialty stores.
The Philadelphia Gift Show concluded its 30th anniversary show, which took place Feb. 1-3 at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks, Pennsylvania. According to show organizers, Clarion Events, the show delivered an energized marketplace experience, providing retailers with a mix of fresh products, emerging brands and on-trend merchandise across hundreds of categories. Retail buyers came from Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Maryland and Delaware to meet with vendors, discover new lines and place orders. Over 250 exhibitors showcased products, including established brand names and some first-time exhibitors. Made-in-America merchandise and handcrafted products were a focus this year as the U.S. celebrates its 250th birthday.
“A sold-out floor and record attendance tell part of the story,” said Evan Shoda, CEO of RedlineXpo. “But what we’re most proud of is the quality of the connections happening on that floor — buyers who are serious, exhibitors who feel supported, and a pace that doesn’t feel like a sprint.”
The next Rocky Mountain Apparel, Gift & Resort Show, is Aug. 25-27 at the National Western Center in Denver.
Looking for something new to offer? Here are some trending products that are sure to turn heads.
1. Pacific Emblem Company: Happy 250th Birthday America challenge coins, america250collection.com; 2. Wind River: Elements Collection wind chimes, www.windriverchimes.com; 3. Xplorer Maps: Playing cards in full-color metal case with map design, www.xplorermaps.com; 4. Cape Shore: Bigfoot with surfboard ornament, www.cape-shore.com; 5. CoTa Global: Bedazzled American flag heart-shaped keychain, www.cotaglobal.com; 6. Wildthings: Jr Bark Ranger Vest, www.wildthingstshirts.com; 7. Zoologee: Puffimalz plush, www.zoologee.com; 8. The Wilusz Way: Layered wood sign, www.thewiluszwaywooddesigns.com; 9. Animals Forever: Americana snow globe, www.littlecritterz.com.
Have a product to feature? Send a high-resolution image and description to: katie@breakwallpublishing.com.
STORY BY KRISTEN HAMPSHIRE
At the New England Aquarium Shop, caring for the ocean extends into the retail environment, where a conservation mission drives purchase decisions.
“Retail is part of the overall story we’re telling at the aquarium,” says Lisa Zajonc, store director. “When guests walk into the shop, we want them to feel connected, not just to the animals they’ve just seen but to the mission behind them.”
Run by Event Network, the New England Aquarium Shop mindfully sources products in its newly renovated store, with a focus on finding souvenirs that are educational, environmentally friendly and connected to the aquarium experience.
Winner: New England Aquarium Shop
Location: Boston, MA
Store Director: Lisa Zajonc
results with transparency. Applying this new initiative required thoughtful changes across toys, souvenirs and packaging, says Zajonc. “It challenged us to rethink what we
“Retail is part of the overall story we’re telling at the aquarium.”
— LISA ZAJONC, STORE DIRECTOR
It was also the first aquarium retail operation in the country to implement Event Network’s Plastic STOPS initiative to reduce reliance on virgin plastic.
The STOPS initiative involves strategizing plastic sell-through; tracking plastic items; ordering alternative products; promoting adjacent product departments and sharing the
SPONSORED BY:
carry and how products show up on our shelves,” she relates.
Plastic-wrapped items were replaced with alternatives, from toys made with recycled materials to classic wooden playthings. No detail was overlooked. The aquarium even swapped plastic-wrapped candy for wax-paper options.
The initiative fits into the shop’s culture of giving back and supporting the aquarium’s work.
Customers are also eager to help give back with their purchases. A roundup donation program at the register directs funds back to the institution. The store has also switched to offering only reusable bags.
“Our guests want to make a difference,” Zajonc says, relating that they’re also comfortable with higherpriced products when they know the aquarium will benefit.
The shop also gives guests an avenue for recycling plastics by selling a Ridwell recycling starter kit that includes a collection bag and prepaid return option, making it easy to give back from home.
Zajonc says, “It’s another way for people to make a positive impact in their everyday lives.” SGN
Sunshine Awards recognize retail stores in our industry that are making a difference through charitable donations and efforts. Is your store worthy of an award? We’d love to hear from you! Complete an entry form at www.sgnmag.com/sunshine-award.
