Gift companies find cooperation is key

The challenges of the gift market prompted a new collaboration at ICRS, with candle supplier Bec and Chelle displaying alongside Show Off Arts (SOA) and the two exhibitors covering for each other.

"The economy is difficult right now, so if, as ventures, we can find ways to promote one another, that is key," said Bec & Chelle owner Bob Mueller. "The cooperative element is the key."

In addition to the show floor partnership, Bec & Chelle has entered a first licensing agreement that sees 14 of SOA's youthful designs on 3.75-ounce travel tin candles, retailing for $6.99 each. The line was debuted at ICRS.

SOA also introduced seven new designs across its canvases, note cards and notepads, plaques and its first line of jewelry. The dog tags ($15 retail) and clay necklaces ($24 retail) carry popular SOA designs on the front and a scripture verse on the back.

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