news

NRF shares that higher wages could lead to more inflation

Strong consumer spending over the past year has been boosted by government stimulus programs but will rely more on the labor market and job creation as the benefits of those efforts subside, Jack Kleinhenz, chief... more »

Georgia Governor proclaims September Balloon Month

Georgia Governor Brian Kemp has issued a proclamation declaring September as Balloon Month in Georgia. Thanks to the dedication of Maxine Burton, founder and president, and Bob Burton, COO, of burton + BURTON, the proclamation... more »

Forty One Madison welcomes visitors in-person for New York Tabletop Show

For the upcoming New York Tabletop Show on Oct. 5-8, Forty One Madison will open its doors to the industry for a live event. To celebrate the return to market, guests can expect a global... more »

Gift Shop Plus announces the Gift + Stationery 40 Under 40 Class of 2021

The Gift + Stationery 40 Under 40 Awards, presented by leading specialty retail magazines Gift Shop Plus and Stationery Trends, revealed its Class of 2021 during a live virtual ceremony. These emerging leaders were nominated... more »

NRF’s 2021 Retail Security Survey indicates retail related crime and other security concerns evolve

Organized retail crime and numerous other security concerns evolved in 2020, and most retailers attribute the increase in criminal activity to the pandemic, according to the 2021 Retail Security Survey released by the National Retail Federation.... more »

NRF said retail sales slowed during July as retailers continued to face supply chain disruptions

Retail sales slowed during July as retailers continued to face supply chain disruptions and increased COVID-19 vaccinations allowed consumers to shift some spending from goods to activities like going out to dinner and traveling despite... more »

Maxine H. Burton joins the Georgia World Congress Center Authority Board of Governors

Maxine H. Burton was appointed to the Georgia World Congress Center Authority (GWCCA) Board of Governors by Georgia Governor Brian Kemp. The governor-appointed group of fifteen oversees the largest combined convention, sports, and entertainment campus... more »

COVID-19 impacts continue to define consumer behaviors

While COVID-19 defined consumer behaviors in 2020—from a moratorium on travel to a burst in online sales—its impacts will still be felt in 2021. Consumers are split down the middle when it comes to choosing... more »