tgf&a winter 2011

TGFACanada’s Voice for the Luggage, Leathergoods, Handbags and Accessories Industry

Winter 2011 • Vol. 2 Number 3

PM 4

0063

056

April 10-12, 2011

Travel Goods, Fashion & Accessories Magazine Travel Goods, Fashion & Accessories Magazine TGFA

www.llhAshow.com

Hot Products for 2011

LLHA Show: Exhibitor Preview

LLHA News

Handbags: It’s in the Bag

It’s Just a Click Away!It’s Just a Click Away!

Virtual Retailing and e-Commerce Success

Your LLHA Show Badge and Exhibitor

Previeware inside!

Buyers:

Industry News & Views

R

EDMONTON (Booth # B 08), Edmonton, 3rd – 5th Feb 2011.Ottawa Boot and Shoe Show, Ottawa, 13th – 15th Feb 2011.Toronto Shoe Show (Booth# BT N01 & N02), To-ronto, 26th – 28th Feb 2011.Vancouver Show, Vancouver, 4th – 6th Mar 2011.OFE Show (Booth # W719), Toronto, 6th – 9th Mar 2011.Sudbury Shoe show, Sudbury, 25th – 27th Mar 2011.LLHA (Booth # 211-213), Toronto, 10th – 12th Apr 2011.

Big Business in China

contents

DEPARTMENTS

6 A Word Before

14 LLHA News

22 Industry News & Views

FEATURES

8 Product Feature: handbags It’s in the Bag

12 Cover Story: Virtual Retailing and e-Commerce Success: It’s Just a Click Away!

16 Hot Products for 2011

It may not quite look like it outside yet, but Spring is on its way, and with the winter chill retreating it’s time to turn our focus to the excitement and promise of a new season!

Of course, one of the best ways to plant these seeds of opportunity is with a visit to the 31st annual llhA Show on April 10th - 12th at the Toronto Congress Centre. TGF&A is thrilled to play an active role within the event and I look forward to meeting you in person on the trade show floor. If you’re an industry buyer, we’ve included your show badge and a special show insert inside this issue.

Thinking of taking your business online? Itching to increase your internet sales? This month’s cover story, Virtual Retailing

and e-Commerce Success by lisa Kopochinski, is a must-read for all future-minded fashion stakeholders who are committed to taking full advantage of the growing online trends.

Speaking of the big show, we’ve included a hot Products for 2011 feature to give readers a sneak peak at some of the popular items you’ll comes across in the aisles, including the latest rough and tumble luggage, innovative and stylish travel bags and vibrant accessories and apparel. Thank you to everyone who contributed the terrific visuals as well as their take on what’s hot this season.

The preview continues in our handbag feature, where lucie Grys highlights some of the industry’s hottest new styles, trends and collections with input from fashion experts.

Also see the llhA News section featuring important llhA Association announcements for members, and key llhA show information such as contests, guest speakers and special events.

As always, I invite you to contact me any time with your feedback, suggestions and story ideas. And if you haven’t yet booked your booth space, or you want to be part of the upcoming Spring issue of TGF&A, which is our special Show Edition, please contact our publisher and show manager Richard Swayze at 866-216-0860 x 246 or [email protected].

Enjoy the issue and I’ll see you in April!

Matthew BradfordEditor [email protected]

A Word Beforeeee

Plant new seeds of opportunity this Spring!

Volume 2 Number 3 • Winter 2011

Publisher | Richard [email protected]

416.512.8186 ext. 246

Senior Graphic Designer | Annette [email protected]

Production Manager | Rachel [email protected]

Circulation Manager | lina [email protected]

Contributing Writerslucie Grys

lisa Kopochinski

Editorial Advisory Board Christine Beben

Pierre Calestagne Sandra Cassivi

Catherine Genge Paul hanley Ken Maxwell Perry Mogus

harry Restoukian Thelma Watts Jeff Williams

President | Kevin [email protected]

Vice President | Chuck [email protected]

5255 Yonge St., Suite 1000 Toronto, Ontario M2N 6P4

Tel: 416.512.8186 Fax: 416.512.8344 www.mediaedge.ca

Travel Goods, Fashion & Accessories is published four times a year by

MediaEDGE Communications Inc.

Subscription Rates (Canada) + hst: 1 year $39.50, 2 years $69.25, single copy $10.75.

For all subscription inquires or changes of address:

[email protected] 416.512.8186 ext. 232

Reprints: No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any form – print or electronic – without written permission from the publisher. Requests for permission to reprint any portion

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Copyright 2011.

Canada Post Canadian Publications Mail Sales Product Agreement No. 40063056

ISSN 1920-5368

Official Publication of the llhA Association of Canada and the llhA Show.

Published by

TGFATravel Goods, Fashion & Accessories Magazine

6 Travel Goods, Fashion & Accessories Magazine

LLHA Show Special Insert:

Exhibitor Preview

Volume 2 Number 3 • Winter 2011

Publisher | Richard [email protected]

416.512.8186 ext. 246

Senior Graphic Designer | Annette [email protected]

Production Manager | Rachel [email protected]

Circulation Manager | lina [email protected]

Contributing Writerslucie Grys

lisa Kopochinski

Editorial Advisory Board Christine Beben

Pierre Calestagne Sandra Cassivi

Catherine Genge Paul hanley Ken Maxwell Perry Mogus

harry Restoukian Thelma Watts Jeff Williams

Published by

SWISS ARMY KNIVES CUTLERY TIMEPIECES TRAVEL GEAR FASHION FRAGRANCES | WWW.VICTORINOx.COM

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LIGHTER & MORE SPACIOUS. EXPERIENCE THE DIFFERENCE.Werks Traveler™ 4.0 Collection.

Fossil’s retro-inspired backpacks meet the need for a more hands-free lifestyle.


Hands-free equals Hassle Free lynn Spence is a recognized and respected stylist, and a regular in the media and at fashion shows. Known for her no-nonsense approach to style, Spence understands what women want in their clothes and their accessories – especially handbags. “A woman can slip into an old pair of jeans, tie her hair up in a ponytail and throw on an old t-shir t, but if she doesn’t have a great handbag to carry it off, she won’t look as great as she could,” says Spence.

Always on the lookout for what’s on the fashion horizon, Spence says a hot trend for

Product Feature: Handbagseee

By Lucie Grys

Distressed leathers in both messenger and brief bags are becoming popular, such as this Benchmade offering.

Spring will be “oversized shopper bags and cross-body bags that are smaller but still fairly substantial. We are living a more hands-free lifestyle and the handbags this season reflect that.”

Benchmade leatherworks’s Ben Farber notes, “The postman bag is coming back in distressed leather because of the room for laptops.” Farber also agrees with the move to more hands-free cross body bags as consumers switch from larger to smaller pieces that are easier to wear.

Fossil, always inspired as a modern vintage brand, relies heavily on vintage design in their new ‘hands-free’ line. “Inspired by the iconic bags of yesterday, our Vintage Re-Issue messenger bags and backpacks are made of rich leather and polished hardware,” says lori Petteplace, PR & Marketing Manager at Fossil Canada.

Timelessness and Quality“My mother still carries the purse she bought in Paris thirty-five years ago,” says linton Drummond, a Toronto-based stylist who works with private clients. “It’s black crocodile and she’s had it repaired many times over the years, but its timeless shape and understated elegance gives one the impression that she could have bought it yesterday. I think it was quite expensive at the time, but it was so worth it.”

Consumers are always on the hunt for a classic handbag that will stand the test of time. Vivi Elo, Managing Director of Jouni heinonen Design Finland, represented in Canada by Moda Scandinavia, says, “Today’s educated consumer often has a budget and they are looking for the best combination of practicality, style, workmanship and hardware in their price range. Consumers are more careful spending their money and may take longer to decide what and where to buy, but they are also willing to pay more for better quality, long lasting products with a good warranty.”

Ask any fashionista what she can’t live without and you’ll likely hear handbags and shoes. Today’s consumers don’t just buy one handbag per season; they might buy one handbag for each outfit. While the choice in the marketplace is always evolving, one thing remains true: buyers want quality with affordability – and style with functionality. The perfect marriage of purpose and panache…with their pocketbooks!

Quality and craftsmanship are important elements to Jouni’s collection.

It’s in the Bag

Product Feature: Handbags eee

Move Over Neutrals Vogue, Elle, Chatelaine – whichever magazine you read, are all saying the same thing: big, bold colours are in. Sandra Cassivi, Director of Sales and Marketing with Sac O Grande, says, “Our clients have been loving the colourful palette of our big and fun Emma handbags. The Sac O Grande collection has been attracting new clients with its unique designs and different shapes for Spring in trendy colours like honeysuckle pink, coral oranges, beeswax yellows, regatta blues, silver cloud greys and lovely lavenders.”

Classic styling is always in fashion at Louies Berry.

Emma handbags by Sac O Grande in hues like bright yellows are a breath of fresh air this season.

Embel l ishments and hardware a re more classical this season, and Tony liang of louies Berry believes that the 2011 Spring and Summer styles do echo a more classic trend. “People are reminded of a more romantic time, and this is reflected in specific styles and collections. he also feels that, “Consumers are now more aware of natural materials and colours, and tend to be more price-conscious than they were in the past.”

It’s in the Bag

COLOMBIAN LEATHER HOUSET: 905-607-1616 Toll Free: 1-800-818-7123www.colombianleatherhouse.com

Distributed By

Visit us at BOOTH 314-316 in the LLHA Show!

Winter 2011 9


Product Feature: Handbagseee

Joanel is showcasing pieces with brighter, flashier hues as well as a wide selection of more traditional palettes.

A return to the feminine is evident in this Sisley piece by Fashion Import, with its more delicate studded detailing and chain strap.

J o ha nn e B o i v i n , P res id e n t a n d Designer at Joanel, sees a combination o f m a t t e a n d s h i n y m a t e r i a l s , shimmering golds, classic black and white combos as well as silky and dress ie r mater ia ls fo r the coming season. Shoppers are look ing for “designs that are more modern and sophisticated,” says Boivin.

Just back from Fashion Week in New Yo r k C i t y, F a s h i o n I m p o r t w a s impressed w i th the resurgence of beautifully handcrafted Italian leathers with a supple and luxurious feel. They also saw handbags with chain handles in vibrant neons, pinks, oranges and kelly greens. Tasha Deane, Product M a nag e r n o tes , “Da te b ags a nd c lu tches a re de f in i te l y ma k ing a statement on the runways. With various materials, shapes and looks, they have exploded and aren’t slowing down anytime soon.”

scaled Down BeautyAs a stylist, one of the things linton Drummond likes about the smaller bags this season is that, “It forces me to edit what I carry around with me. Some of my larger bags get so heavy as a result of all the stuff I put in – and forget about.” Feminine detailing is matched with smaller purse sizes, and Drummond notes, “Sof ter shades are huge for Spring and Summer. The ‘ballet’ palette from the hit movie, Black Swan, is more subtle than the oranges and neon-pinks, but very beautiful and feminine.”

Jennifer Khan, Product Manager at Cabrelli agrees. “Bags are generally smaller and more ladylike with touches of studs, zippers and chains. They are smar t and elegant, but casual and refreshed by romantic inspirations.” Khan adds, “Floral and geometric prints are very important for Spring as well as m e t a l l i c s , v i v i d b r i g h ts , t im e l e s s neutrals and as always, black and white. What is new is more textured PVC materials, metallic finishes, ornamented nylon and textured canvas.”

A Place for everything and everything in its PlaceWe’ve all seen it: the frantic dig for the ringing cell phone or the shaking of a bag to hear the long lost car keys. Manufacturers and designers have heeded the call and have designed bags wi th a f lur r y of pockets and zippered compartments.

Colombian leather house’s lady’s Tote Bag is an example of a piece that can be quickly thrown over the shoulder, yet you can easily access your cell phone and car keys from any of the zippered outside pockets. Their popular Belt Bag follows last year’s casual fashion trend, and is a daytime-wear accessory. Made in the softest ‘Flotter’ cow hide, the Belt Bag has lots of easily accessed and secure pockets as well.

The Belt Bag by Colombian Leather House shows the move to more organized interiors and exteriors.

JAKS Ready-to-Dare™ collection celebrates “originality with a blend of overlays and pleats mixed playfully with the use of textures and touches of perfectly placed details.” lynn Spence agrees, and is excited to see a lot of wonderful stitching and quilting on handbags, woven leathers and a mixing of materials to create interesting tapestries. JAKS collection also includes shoe and boot bags, wallets, laptop bags, iPad or PC tablet cases and a sports bag that can double as a weekender too.

Smaller, lady-like shapes, feminine ruffled detailing and softer hues from Cabrelli are on trend for Spring and Summer.

The Ready-to-Dare™ collection by JAKS features creative detailing in both woolen and nylon bags this season.

holiday Group also sees the demand for clever storage ideas, and its handbags have more side pockets and organizational features for items like cell phones, keys or wallets, to help consumers find their personal belongings quickly when out and about. Versatility is equally important, and the labels David Jones and Foxy Jeans from holiday offer structure, sophistication and stylish practicality with a wide palette of colours and detailing.

Holiday Group’s versatile and stylish Foxy Jeans product line can go from the boardroom to the cocktail lounge.

An Original statementThe handbag that one carries can make a statement. The Basu Group has launched a new brand in Canada called ANNA by Anuschka. Bhaskar Basu, Designer and President, believes, “In the world of art, one must appreciate the new artists as well as the legendary ones like Vincent van Gogh and Claude Monet. From butterflies to flowers, from peacock feathers to animal prints, ANNA allows the artisans to explore their creativity and express their love for the art through handbags.”

Originality and artistry are celebrated in a new line called ANNA by Anuschka.

The quilted bag is a hit this season in the la Diva collection by Papillon, and stylists l ike Spence and Drummond both agree that the textured handbag is a big trend this year. When it comes to hardware, brighter metallics are making a comeback and consumers are asking for quality buckles, zippers, tassels and snaps. Peek-a-boo interiors with contrasting lining continue to be popular, and consumers enjoy opening their handbags to reveal the unexpected.

With so many options in such a rich variety of colours, sizes and styles, consumers have been trained to want one of everything. According to Drummond, “We want the tote, the hobo, the clutch, the lady purse, the evening bag…but economies have to be made somewhere!” Currently, price points are reflecting the latest market trends, there is greater attention to manufacturing and craftsmanship, and a varied range of both timeless neutrals, racy colours and pockets for every purpose. But at the end of the day, if it’s a great match for the buyer, then the deal is in the bag. e

La Diva handbags are bringing back metallic accents and quilted designs.

Winter 2011 11

Product Feature: Handbags eee

Cover Storyeee

By Lisa Kopochinski

With virtual retailing becoming more pervasive these days, purchasing your favourite item can literally be done from the palm of your hand—anytime, anywhere.


Virtual retailing, e-tailing, e-commerce, e-business — whichever term you prefer, there exists a great buzz around buying and selling goods online. And while one can discuss the different subsets of each (v i r tua l re ta i l ing be ing a subset o f e - commerce, wh ich is a subset o f e-business, etc.), it all comes back to the undisputed fact that the Internet has truly changed the way we shop. “Most retailers have a physical location and are limited by how many people see their store,” says Mitch Joel, owner of Twist Image, an award-winning digital marketing agency with offices in Toronto and Montreal. “When you elevate the notion of retail to being able to basically sell to anybody who is interested in the product, it becomes a phenomenal game changer.”

And what a game changer virtual retailing has become. While it’s difficult to know the exact percentage of people who do online research before they buy, it’s safe to say that this figure is constantly increasing as technology continues to progress.

“Start with the common supposition that there’s a need—in virtual retailing, as well as other businesses that were formerly only brick-and-mortars—for some kind of web

presence,” says Rob Neilly, a professor in the School of Fashion and Merchandising at Seneca College in Toronto. “Though not universally or instantly true, a brick-and-mortar can complement its physical store with an online presence, and hopefully that will ultimately drive more traffic and sales. The reverse is also true; increasingly, people are letting their keyboards do the walking before physically walking into that brick-and-mortar location to actually make the purchase.”

Considering there is a seemingly endless array of goods available for purchase online (with some products selling better than others), it’s encouraging to know that fashion, travel, and accessories do very well in the virtual medium. Albeit, with a few exceptions.

Tim Richardson, a professor of e-commerce, Internet marketing and international business at the University of Toronto and Seneca College, says that there may be some limitations with tactile products such as perfumes which require sampling.

“[In the ads], there can be gorgeous images, but that doesn’t tell the purchaser what the perfume smells like,” he says. “Unless you’ve tried it already, the huge missing ingredient is you, and how that product looks or smells on you. You can’t

touch something on the Internet. You can’t taste it, and can’t feel it on your skin. So there will be fashion items that simply yell out for a physical sensory experience that won’t do so well online.”

For items such as handbags, vir tual imagery can be very helpful, especially if the site allows browsers to drag items such as cell phones, wallets and makeup bags into a virtual handbag to gauge how well they fit.

“These constructs allow people to make a decision,” says Richardson. “Virtual retailing is a way that e-businesses are using image constructs to allow the purchaser to have a better idea of what the product looks like, as well as its features and benefits.”

When buying clothing, particularly for someone else, virtual imagery can also be very useful. For instance, adds Richardson, “My wife had a website where she sold lingerie. She had a sizing chart where you clicked on the picture of a person, whether they be skinny, medium or portly. That gave the purchaser an idea of the sizing.”

Considering the competit iveness of retailing, retailers know that the more they can help a person make a decision, the greater the chance they have of closing the sale.

“What companies do is arrange their

Virtual Retailing and e-Commerce Success It’s Just a Click Away!

Cover Story eee

Winter 2011 13

imagery—be they static or moving images— to more closely approximate what their target market segment is,” offers Richardson.

VIrTuAl DOwNsIDesThe pros of virtual retailing are obvious. An online store’s audience is potentially

limitless, websites are almost always open for business, and the Internet makes for easy shopping and decision making. There are, however, definite cons to consider.

“The virtual retailer has just about a single chance to make a good impression,” notes Neilly. “This is perhaps more true for its Gen-Y shoppers than anyone else. Millennials, besides being the fastest growing segment of today’s workforce, are also seriously plugged into the online world.”

Over the past decade, Neilly says the anecdotal evidence and informal surveying he has conducted indicates that the tolerance level for poor websites can be measured in seconds. “For the students I’ve surveyed, ten seconds is about the maximum time they’ll spend visiting a new web page before deciding if they’d like to stay.”

Technical glitches, such as a slow-loading page, or a shopping cart or credit card processing system that doesn’t work, can often lead to a lost sale. Moreover, there are the ever-present concerns about electronic transactions in that some people simply do no trust using their credit card numbers online.

“The truth of the matter is that providing a credit card online is much safer than giving your credit card to the pizza guy when you call

him,” insists Joel. “It’s just this perception that you don’t know where it’s going, but the security has gotten really good.”

Still, identity theft remains a very real concern, and thieves are becoming more adept at using a variety of convincing techniques to lull consumers into a false sense of security, as well as mimicking real banking or other online e-commerce sites.

THe NexT wAVeAs for what the near future holds for virtual retailing, Richardson predicts

that we may all be browsing for items using holographics, explaining, “People create techno log y to rep l i ca te the human experience. For 20 years we have been looking at flat images on a monitor, but we see in mu l t i - d imens ions . T he nex t g e n e r a t i o n i s t h e h o l o g r a p h i c representation. The only reason we haven’t done it so far is that people are completely content with the way things are at present.”

As well, social media marketing is having nothing short of a colossal impact on all kinds of commerce. The playing field is truly being leveled.

“Become a fan of a company’s Facebook page or follow a company or vendor on Twitter, and you’re likely to get in on the latest news, offerings, special deals or events,” says Neilly. “What’s more, you don’t have to be on a traditional computer to get the goodies, as most smartphones have apps that ‘push’ the news right to your phone. Tied in with this is the increasing use of in-store

texting promotions. Walk into some stores, send a quick text message to them while you’re there, and you may receive a discount on the way out!”

All said, one of the single most explosive trends in virtual retailing is the shift toward mobi le commerce, o r m-commerce. Retailers are seriously beginning to ‘push’ content to mobile devices like smartphones and tablet computers.

“Examples of these include Apple’s phenomenally popular iPad and the soon-to - b e w i d e l y r e l e a s e d B l a c k B e r r y PlayBook,” explains Neilly. “They do this in a variety of ways, and advertising is one of those ways. Even a t iny smar tphone screen, which is already pushing the limits by showing a website or an application, has room for an even tinier ad. And, of course, the ads are clickable.”

Adds Joel: “Yes, I also think mobile commerce will be huge; where you and I are talking over coffee and you tell me about this great thing I have to buy. And I can buy it right there in the palm of my hand. You can already do that on Amazon and Kindle. I use the Kindle app and I can buy a book as someone is telling me about it.”

The technology is here and the consumers are ready. Maximizing one’s retai l ing footprint on the Internet can be a challenge, but to the online victors go the spoils. e

L isa Kopochinski is a freelance writer and ed i to r and can be reached a t [email protected].

Unique, practical,high quality handbags

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Call 416.839.8484 or email [email protected] for more info and purchasing.MODA SCANDINAVIA LIMITED, 5305 North Service Road, Unit B13, Burlington, ON L7M 3B9

Visit us at the LLHA Show in TorontoApril 10–12, 2011 at booth 742-743

11029_AVE 284 Jouni Design Show Ad_2011_FINAL.pdf 1 11-02-11 4:39 PM

e

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LLHA Newseee

Will winter ever end!? This winter has been a mixed blessing for us in the travel goods industry. When the weather is cold and snowy, Canadians crave their warm weather vacations; however, the constant stream of storms is bad news for retail when consumers choose to cocoon.

Take heart, though, because it can’t continue forever and it will soon all be a distant memory! After all, we wouldn’t be Canadians if we didn’t moan and groan about the weather. As spring approaches, we will be finishing preparations for this year’s edition of the llhA Show. (Catch the tie in to the theme?) I am sure that all of you are eagerly looking forward to the show as am I. The llhA Show not only offers the opportunity to review what is new in product offerings, colours and trends, but it also offers the opportunity to renew connections with our friends from across this great country of ours.

With the bad times in the past, we are all looking forward to a prosperous 2011 as the economy continues to gain momentum. Be sure to join us at the show for our annual seminar on industry trends, where the NPD Group will be sharing with all of us a report on 2010, and a detailed analysis of the final quarter. This is a “must-attend” event to gain insightful knowledge regarding our industry.

We also look forward to carrying over the popular changes from last years show. The AGM will be held at the conclusion of set up on Saturday, and all are invited to join us for a drink and give your input to the Board. Judging by last year’s positive response, we will once again be holding the President’s Reception on Sunday evening. We look forward to seeing all of you for the Industry Awards and a little fun!

There truly is no better way to prepare for a prosperous 2011 than to take advantage of the resources that are available to you. The llhA Show is your number one resource for product and information…and you might just enjoy yourself along the way.

See you at the show!

President’s Message

Paul hanley, llhA PresidentluggAge, leATHergOODs, HANDBAgs AND ACCessOrIes AssOCIATION OF CANADA

(866) 872-2420 Fax: (519) [email protected] • www.llha.ca

NOT AN llHA MeMBer yeT?Visit www.llha.ca and click on the Member-ship link to complete the online llhA Mem-bership Application.

Becoming a member is easy and the best way for your business to grow! Check out what membership in the llhA has to offer:

The llhA Show…the largest luggage, leathergoods, handbags and Accessories Show held in Canada. The market place for buyers and sellers to focus on the most influential and inspired brands. The place to be if you are looking to be part of today’s retail culture! April 10-12, 2011 at the Toronto Congress Centre.

ADDITIONAl Full MeMBersHIPBeNeFITs INCluDe:• Industry Statistics Reports• Copy of llhA Show Attendance list• Annual President’s Reception• Free listing of your Company and

Brands and more on our llhA website

• Annual AGM Meeting (Your opportunity to be heard!)• CPSA Membership at 50% discount• Guest Speakers and Seminars• Free Subscription to TGF&A Travel Goods,

Fashion & Accessories Magazine• And much more….

JOIN US AND BE A PART OF IT All!

LLHA MEMBERSHIP EARLY BIRD RENEWAL CONTEST…WINNER!All llhA members with dues paid prior to December 20, 2010 were entered into our Early Bird Draw for the chance to win a FREE llhA Membership for 2011. We are happy to congratulate this year’s winner: BERTOTTI

REMINDER TO ALL LLHA MEMBERS A friendly reminder to those who have not yet paid llhA membership dues for 2011. Please contact the llhA office at [email protected] if you require a copy of your invoice.

LLHA WELCOMES NEW MEMBERS We proudly announce the following new members. See them at the upcoming llhA Show. For the latest new member additions visit www.llhAshow.com and click “2011 Exhibitor list”:Abbot t, Beacon Distributors, Berri ta In Leather Fashions Inc., Clear Image Marketing and Promotions Inc., Fenisa Brands Collections Inc., Glanor LLC, In & Out Station Inc., J & J Trading, McKlein Company, Moda Scandinavia/ A.V.E. Creative Strategies Group Inc., P & D Designs Inc., Rich Brands, Valeaze Inc.

Winter 2011 15

LLHA News eee

2011 LLHA SHOW UPDATE

Announcing: Keynote seminar2010 Industry Overviewby The NPD group

Monday April 11th, 8 a.m.- 9 a.m. Continental Breakfast 7:30 am Toronto Congress Centre, North Hall Pre-register today at: [email protected]

NPD is the leading global provider of consumer and retail market research information for a wide range of industries, with offices in 12 countries including its Canadian office in Toronto, and over 1700 clients ranging from Fortune 100 leaders to smaller businesses. NPD provides critical consumer behavior and point-of-sale (POS) information and industry expertise across a wide range of industries to help understand and profit from consumer and retail trends. At the LLHA Show, NPD will present the latest industry highlights from its “Canadian Accessories Consumer Tracking Service” launched in Canada in October 2009, which mails to approximately 10,000 Canadian individuals/month. Results from this service represent accessories purchases made nationally and regionally, and it provides insights into market size, channels, brands, retailers, product features, usage, consumer profiles and more.

Don’t miss this interesting and informative report, which will provide a valuable snapshot of where the industry was in 2010 including a detailed Q4 analysis, and where the industry is going in 2011!

CPSA ExCLUSIvE MEMBERSHIP fOR LLHA MEMBERS, NOW SUBSIDIzED BY THE LLHABack by popular demand, the LLHA will pay half of one CPSA membership for each member! To receive this special offer at our corporate rate, contact Catherine Genge at [email protected] to be sent the CSPA application, and fax it back directly to Florence Fillion at 416-408-2684. Please note that LLHA membership dues must be paid prior to being eligible for the CSPA special membership rate. If you wish to purchase more than one CPSA membership, it will be extended to each of your employees at the special corporate rate of $105.00.

CPSA membership is built on powerful partner programs that give its members access to exclusive discounts on business, automotive, travel and insurance services. On average, the CPSA rates (which are negotiated with over 1,000 hotels across Canada and the US), beat Expedia, Travelocity and Orbitz by 16%. Members saved over $1,361 last year alone on expenses such as hotels, flights, car rentals, gas and parking. Even if you only travel a few times a year, the membership pays for itself.

But, CPSA Membership goes beyond your bottom line, providing you with access to timely training, sales assessment tools, and tactical market insights to give you the selling edge. CPSA members can save up to $500 on sales training, with a wide range of in-class or online courses offered including those required to obtain the CSP (Canadian Sales Professional) designation. CPSA membership also gives members access to a library of valuable resources such as a Virtual Knowledge Centre with sales-related articles, book excerpts, podcasts, white papers and more. The CPSA’s resources also include Recruitment and Career Development Tools that can save member employers or job-seekers up to $500 on postings, as well as Online Assessment Services which are web-based tools to help members improve hiring success, increase employee productivity, reduce turnover and to assist in other key areas.

Become a CPSA member today! Visit www.CPSA.com or call 1.888.267.CPSA(2772).

GROUP

YOUR OffICIAL “LLHA SHOW HEADqUARTERS” TORONTO AIRPORT MARRIOTT901 Dixon Road, Toronto, Ontario Show Rate (Before March 16): $116.00 single or double, including free parkingllhA guests enjoy 20% off all restaurant meals (excluding alcohol)Reservations: 416-674-9400 or 1-800-905-2811 or register online at http://cwp.marriott.com/yyzot/llha2011/ LLHA WELCOME RECEPTION AND ANNUAL GENERAL MEETINGSaturday April 9, 2011 at 4:30 pm, North Hall Lobby, Toronto Congress CentreWe value your input. Come have your say as Saturday’s move-in draws to a close. Enjoy refreshments at our reception starting at 4:00pm, and join us at the AGM to follow.

BE OUR GUEST AT OUR ANNUAL PRESIDENT’S RECEPTIONSunday April 10, 2011 – 7:00 pm, Cocktails commence at 6:30 pmToronto Airport Marriot, 901 Dixon Rd. – Grand BallroomDon’t miss our industry’s Event of the Year. Join us for dinner and celebrate this year’s llhA Industry Award winners! For further information, please contact [email protected] or the llhA at 1-866-872-2420

Fashion On The Move

Fashion On Fashion On Fashion On Fashion On The MoveThe Move

Exhibitors:Be one of the lucky few to have your products displayed throughout the show!

Take your products beyond your booth. Our professional models will walk the show featuring your products four times daily. Each feature will be for approximately a 30 minute duration.

Sunday April 10 and/or Monday April 11

Fee per is $200.00 / dayPlease email [email protected]

for further information and to register your company’s participation!

HURRY! SPACES ARE LIMITED.

LUGGAGE, LEATHERGOODS,HANDBAGS & ACCESSORIESASSOCIATION OF CANADA

LLHA_Quarter_AD.indd 1 11-03-03 4:28 PM

ATTeNTION reTAIlers: lOOK FOr yOur 2011 sHOw BADge INsIDe THIs Issue! Just bring it to Show Registration to pick up your badge holder. Badge corrections can be made on-site at Show Registration. Enjoy the show!

Hot Products for 2011

Hassle Free Durability leads the way in luggage and Bags Damaged goods can derail even the best laid travel plans, and these days Canadians are relying on luggage that won’t cost them extra in repairs or replacements down the road. With that in mind, Rimowa’s new Salsa Deluxe hybrid collection features the fusion of a protective polycarbonate suitcase with the easy-access functionality of a soft-sided case. “Rimowa listened to the market’s needs and heard that the sturdiness of a polycarbonate case was essential, but that accessibility was needed as well. We put these two essential features together to make for the perfect travel case,” notes Amy Jakubaitis, Public Relations Coordinator with Rimowa. The Salsa Deluxe hybrid includes a Kevlar-Polyester front pocket with 3 zipped compartments for convenient access.

Rimowa’s Salsa Deluxe Case makes durability and accessibility its key features.

Remo’s new Dionite Cielo line boasts a sleek design and durability.

Remo Impor ts is combining runway style and on-the-go necessities with its Dionite Cielo luggage set. lightweight and fashion forward, the Dionite Cielo marries fashion with functionality at a consumer-friendly price. “No longer are we in the days of basic black and the standard navy and red colours for suitcases. We have expanded our product line to include fashionable prints and vibrant colours,” says Debbie Sculnick of Remo Imports.


What’s going to dominate the store shelves this Spring and beyond? Read on and learn about all the newest and hottest lines of luggage, bags and accessories this year. Then lock in April 10-12 into your ca lendar, because you can check out all 18 of our featured products, and thousands more, in the aisles at the llhA Show this Spring!

Samsonite’s Silhouette line benefits from over 50 years of continued innovation.

First launched in 1958, Samsonite’s Silhouette line has become one of

the mainstays of the travel industry. Now, keeping in

step wi th the competi t ion, Samsonite is placing the spotlight on its newest Silhouette 12 Softside and hardside lines. This latest generation of Silhouette luggage includes a bevy of improvements such as slotted spinner wheels, dirt and oil resistant fabric and a host of security-friendly features.

Winter 2011 17

Hot Products for 2011 eee

fresh from

DESIGNED IN NEW ORLEANS

DISCOVER MORE@LLHA SHOW BOOTH 715

Tel: 800.806.3696Contact Lin [email protected]

pick your print.

Ro-el’s ultra-tough Titanium DlX collection from Carlton luggage is also in the business of protecting consumer goods with its Flexicore Tech material designed to makes its shell virtually unbreakable. The 3-piece collection spor ts ‘Touch N Go’ 4-wheel spinners, TSA ‘worry-free’ locks, a smooth-textured finish and rich and functional interiors.

Titanium DLX luggage from Ro-el’s Carlton Luggage brand is lighter than polycarbonate yet stronger than polypropylene.

Delsey’s Green Days Collection appeals to the eco-conscious and stylish consumer.

On the topic of colour, Samboro is leaning on ‘green’ this season with the roll out of its Delsey Green Days Collection; a luggage line made from 45% PET (aka recycled material from water bottles). Developed by the Delsey France design team, Delsey’s Green Days embodies youthful energy with its up-beat European look. Also from Samboro comes its Fiber lite Spinners that utilize the latest fiber-glass technology, and a Tri-tone Micro Ballistic Polyester that is one of lightest of its kind on the market.

Answering the call for hassle free travel products is Jack Georges with its latest collection of Generation Edge checkpoint-friendly bags. The bags combine wrinkle-free ballistic nylon with Italian leather accented with cream stitching and painted edges. “Our consumers are not willing to sacrifice style for function; they want a balance of both. So while we are making our bags lighter, we are not losing the quality and integrity that we are known for”, notes Dany Chalhoub, General Manager. looking ahead in 2011, Jack Georges aims to accentuate its lines by combining leathers

and materials for a three tone effect, thereby adding a fresh dimension to the look and feel of its new

products.

Jack George’s Generation Edge Collection of checkpoint friendly laptop bags.

The Hedgren Harper shoulder bag is ideal for easy travel.

Durability, innovation and style define Jak’s collection of embroidered boot bags, evening clutches and iPad cases. “This season, woollen materials make their mark, as well as a line of nylon and woollen material that offers a multitude of af fordable i tems,” says Karine Dionne, Director of Marketing at Jak’s. Describing Jak’s innovative line of satin-coated nylon products, she adds: “Their light, waterproof qualities go hand-in-hand with the versati l i t y of these handbags, while they retain their femininity thanks to numerous li t t le woollen material details. Their durability also allows the user to defy time with style!”

Stay active and dry with Jak’s boot bags.

Colombian Leather House’s Executive Laptop Messenger is a fashionable alternative to a traditional computer case.

“Queros 2011 is at the forefront of style trends, while also being designed to meet the needs of functionality, daily wear and the casual look of our loyal customers,” says Javier Rincon, President of Colombian leather house, describing the company’s new styles in Vaqueta leather. Queros 2011 new arr ivals include the subtly st y l ish Executive laptop Messenger Bag (Style

8335) which can accommodate a 15.4” laptop, and the new Companion Bag (Style 8330), “Ideal for daily carrying, whether ke ep ing you r p e rso na l d o c um e n ts

accessible and secure during a vacation, or when heading to the mall.” Both items are available in black, brown or tan.

Hot Products for 2011eee


Visit us at www.sacogrande.comfor an agent in your area.

Montreal 450.510.3928

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Trendsetting Bags for Business or TravelFrom durable luggage to trendy travel bags, hedgren’s 2011 line of travel bags caters to the fashion-conscious consumer with a lot on the go. “Our bags are versatile and comfortable, but also allow you to stay organized in your busy life,” says Julien Morichon, hedgren Brand Manager. “We aim to bring you the highest possible quality of materials each and every season. Our goals include trying to become lighter and more durable and to offer a wider assortment of bags to help organize the newest technologies that are on the market.”

Toll free: 1-877-583-1950 www.fultonumbrellas.comShow Booth #321

Toll free: 1-877-583-1950 www.fultonumbrellas.comShow Booth #321

201, laurier est, suite 630 montréal (qc) 514 273 3266

scooterbag.com [email protected]

Pub.indd 1 11/29/10 10:04:36 PMWinter 2011 19

Cabrelli & Co.’s Fashion E xecu t i ve Ro l l e r- B r ie fs marry the convenience of a c a r r y - o n w i t h t h e trendsetting appeal of a fash io n ha ndbag. T h e result for travellers is a l i g h t - w e i g h t , a i r p l a n e f r i e n d l y r o l l e r - b r i e f complete with a padded l a p t o p c o m p a r t m e n t , sturdy wheels, retractable handle and matching ID tags. Cabre l l i has a lso complemented its roller-br ief l ine with matching travel bags, the addition of brand new colours and p r i n t s , a n d f o u r n e w shapes.

The Cabrelli & Co roller-brief is made of a checker printed PVC.


essential spring Accessories This season, Joanel is breathing life into its current collection with three new brand sub-categories; Kharma, for trendy fashion styles; Essentia, for basic and casual wear; and Allura, for the casual and urban look. Joanel is also launching a new Materna line of maternity bags for trend setting moms, match ing wa l le ts fo r ex ist ing handbag col lect ions, h a n d c r a f t e d d e t a c h a b l e ornaments, and additions to its signature line of sunglasses. For t h e t r a v e l l e r, J o a n e l a l s o introduces its new collection of Grafiti laptop holders, available in a number of vibrant colours and styles like electric blue.

Grafiti collection laptop holder from Joanel.

“Fulton Umbrellas continue for Spring 2011 to be the leading umbrella brand in Canada, offering the latest fashion prints and colours inspired by the design trends both in North America and Europe,” says Richard Igra, president of Fulton Umbrellas. “This year we find the classic designs dominating with an increased slant towards colourful lines and prints, as well as fashion inspired walking length umbrellas.” Fulton Umbrellas plans to compliment their umbrella line in 2011 with Fulton Rain Boots.

Fulton’s Minilite umbrella with its layered spot design shines under the darkest clouds.

Canadian Gift Concept’s line of Sidekicks sandals and umbrellas are “essential shoes for the girl on the go”. Available in black, gold, pink and silver, or snake and leopard patterns, Sidekicks are easy to carry in their matching clutch. For rainy days, Sidekicks umbrellas are designed for ultimate compact convenience,

sporting a retractable steel handle, unique zipper charm, and a sleek leatherette case. Canadian

Gif t Concept also carries the Saress, the ultimate dress, 2010’s Most Innovative New Product award winner f rom the llhA Association of Canada. It’s available in five sizes and 24 styles, short or long.

From the craftsmen behind the iconic Tilley hat comes Tilley’s Intrepid shoulder bag. Inspired by World War II Canadian officer field bags, the Tilley Intrepid is made of strong, 10 ounce waxed cotton and features a removable strap, ample pocket space and a uniquely numbered brass plate to assist owners in case of loss. Reflecting on his war-time inspiration, Tilley founder Alex Tilley notes, “I knew that if we could bring it up-to-date and make it to our standards, it would be a splendid shoulder bag and briefcase… and an appropriate way to celebrate our 30th year of offering the best apparel and gear for adventure travellers.”

Tilley’s Intrepid shoulder bag was inspired by Canadian military officer field bags.

Straight from the UK and distributed by Fashion Impor t comes the Back2You luggage and Personal Item locator; the ideal clip-on addition to your personal items that uses a global tracking system to keep track of your valuables. Other new travel goods from Fashion Import include Tokidoki Printed luggage, Spare Soles Shoe Clips and Bed Bug Spray – all of which can save the day (and night) during long stretches of travel.

Back2You from Fashion Import is easy to apply and gives peace of mind to travellers.

Hot Products for 2011eee


The Saress, the ultimate dress. An award-winner at the 2010 LLHA Show.

TGFA_half_island_joanel.pdf 1 11-01-19 11:39 AM

Winter 2011 21

Design Go from Clear Image Marketing and Promotions is taking travel convenience to the next level with its extensive Go Travel line of unique travel supplies including extra-comfy travel pillows, innovative eye masks, and additions to its line of TSA approved locks. Among its most notable new products is Go Travel’s Micro Scale; a small, light and compact set of electronic luggage scales that can be used to weigh up to 35Kg. Featuring rapid calculations and webbing for a tighter hold, Go Travel’s Micro Scale offer quick and accurate readings for simple and painless baggage handling.


Go Travel’s Micro Scale makes baggage checking a breeze.

so what’s Hot?As the economy improves, Canadians are coming out of their shells when it comes to investing in their travel goods, b u t a l i ng e r i ng a t t i t u d e towa rds conservative spending also means that they’re opening their wallets for products that not only look good, but that are guaranteed to last . Spac ious and lightweight yet sturdy luggage is in, as are travel bags featuring tear-proof materials and room to spare, as well as stylish yet versatile handbags and unique accessories. All in all, consumers are choosing products that can keep up with their lifestyles and meet their budgets, while – ideally – turning a few heads in the process. e

Staying charged on the go is now easier thanks to Pronto Innovat ions’ new Universal Adapter with Portable Power Cord & USB Charger. The newest travel accessory in Pronto’s Travel Club line, the Universal Adapter allows travellers to power their notebook computers through AC outlets while simultaneously charging other mobi le dev ices th rough the included USB power port.

Pronto’s Universal Adapter keeps you powered up and connected.

Inspired by the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the original Swiss Army Knife, V ic to r inox ’s new Werks Traveler 4.0 collection from Throat Threads features m a x i m u m u t i l i t y , sophisticated functionality and mate r ia ls tha t w i l l withstand the most extreme travel conditions. The new c o l l e c t i o n f e a t u r e s m a x i m i z e d c a s e d i m e n s i o n s , u p d a t e d organizational panels, 360 degree ro ta t ing hand le s y s t e m s a n d a T S A approved luggage lock for t h e u t m o s t s e c u r i t y . “Consumers can expect the b e s t f r o m V i c t o r i n o x . Victorinox Travel Gear is home to a Swiss tradition that is more than 100 years old and br ings together innovation, functionality and d u r a b i l i t y i n a s i n g l e c o n c e p t ,” s ay s T h ro a t Threads.

Werks Traveler 4.0 Collection by Victorinox is available in red, black and emerald from Throat Threads.


Industry News & Viewseee

Fossil Canada relocating to Toronto On May 31st, Fossil Canada will be moving out of its Sales and Marketing office in Concord and heading back to downtown Toronto to take over half of the top floor of 214 King Street West, across the street from Roy Thompson hall. Not only will the location get the brand back into a more fashionable address, but the increased floor space will grant Fossil ample room to showcase the latest in handbags, wallets and small leather goods.

Jouni Handbag line from

Finland launches in Canada

Jouni heinonen Design Finland, represented by Moda

Scandinavia ltd., is proud to introduce to the Canadian

market a new, unique and practical high quality

handbag line from Finland. We invite you to stop by our

brand new showroom located in Burlington, Ontario.

Contact us today for an appointment to visit our

showroom and to see our product line: (416) 839-8484

or by email at [email protected]. You can also visit us

at the llhA Show at booth 742 – 743.

Joanel Moves into T.O Fashion District Joanel Inc. is proud to announce the opening of its

corporate showroom located in the New Fashion District

of Toronto; a district that is home to many of the major

international brands. This showroom will facilitate access

to our wide range of products for our retailers. Vicki

Meisner will gladly welcome you to our new facility and

offer you excellent customer service. We also encourage

you to visit our newly redesigned website at www.

joanelinc.ca.

New licenses and executive VP at CalegoCalego, the Canadian leader in licensed accessories, is excited to announce that it has obtained licenses for the popular Barbie, hot Wheels, Monster high, Sanrio’s hello Kitty, Jersey

Shore, lalaloopsy, Victorious and Paul Frank brands. Calego has also expanded its line to include room decor in addition to its bags, backpacks, luggage and umbrellas. Calego is also

proud to welcome Greg Crowder, formerly General

Manager of Fields Stores Canada, as Calego International’s new Executive Vice President.

sac O grande launches emma

OutSourceAim Imports, the makers of Sac O

Grande handbags, are excited to unveil our new

entry line of handbags: Emma! These are fashion

forward, quality handbags at competitive prices.

To better serve our clients in British Columbia,

Alberta and Manitoba we are also pleased to

introduce new agents to our team. They look

forward to hearing from you at Global Sales and

Marketing by phone at 1-866-206-3557 or by

email at [email protected]

Anuschka Hires New Canadian sales Team Anuschka handbags is excited to announce that Alan Morrison, Tony Morris, Manon Isabelle and Cathy Burton have joined our sales team in Canada. They will represent both our Anuschka Collection and our new ANNA by Anuschka Collection. Alan, Cathy, Tony and Manon bring a wealth of experience and expertise in the retail/wholesale industry. Anuschka products will be represented as follows: Alan represents Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan. Cathy represents Newfoundland, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island. Tony represents British Columbia and Alberta. Manon represents Quebec. Contact Anuschka handbags at [email protected] or at 905.266.0625.

tgf&a winter 2011

Documents

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llha news section

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