The lighting category has been influenced by science and space this year with debuts based on starbursts, planets and even aliens and Albert Einstein.

Hubbardton Forge’s Eddy has a spiral design inspired by the Fibonacci sequence where each successive number is equal to the sum of the two preceding numbers. Similar to a seashell’s curved shape, it’s made with forged tapering plates and is offered in two cylindrical glass shade options and a range of finishes.

The winter version of the Las Vegas Market opened yesterday with new World Market Center showrooms and exhibitors along with product introductions in nearly every home furnishings category.
 
Stanley Furniture debuted its first WMC showrooms with eclectic vignettes instead of suites. Showrooms are divided into four “houses,” each representing a unique lifestyle: coastal, traditional, contemporary and introductions.
 

DALLAS–Early American looks, use of real and faux wood and wavy textured glass and, of course, more LED products are among the introductions at the Dallas International Lighting Market, which opened yesterday.

ELK Lighting debuted the first fixtures for its HGTV line, which previously had only portables. Now the line offers 72 lamps and 80 fixtures, said Brad Smith, CEO. “With HGTV, it’s all about using different materials,” and for these new introductions, they included metal with wood looks, mercury glass and ceramic.

In addition to the International Market Center’s big news that it will create what it called a “super regional” gift show, the second day of the Las Vegas Market was notable for numerous introductions and company news. Here are some highlights:

NEW YORK–This year’s International Contemporary Furniture Fair did not disappoint with introductions focused on both the fun and functional and the sophisticated and stylish.

LAS VEGAS–The Las Vegas Winter Market opened yesterday with a bang, continuing the good vibes of the January trade shows.
 
Showgoers packed the showrooms and hallways, and educational and socializing events were well attended.
 

RICHMOND, Va.—With the new light bulb regulations having kicked in Jan. 1, Atlantic Electric Supply Corp. is holding a mock memorial service today for the 100 watt incandescent bulb, complete with open casket. The promotion is both to help consumers in the area learn more about the light bulb changes—the 100 watt incandescent light bulb must now meet certain energy standards, as will the 75-, 60- and 40-watt bulbs in later years—as well as get customers in the door.

DALLAS–The Dallas International Lighting Market wrapped up yesterday, and many companies used the opportunity to both bolster their lines and break into new categories. Traditional products were decluttered and updated to appeal to customers who like traditional but want something fresh. And crystal continues to proliferate, especially with a contemporary twist.
 

By Nancy Meyer
Like many other industries, the lighting industry is going through a downsizing.
Companies have to justify every single expenditure and are finding ways to take costs out of many of their processes, from sourcing and shipping to warehousing and providing customer service. Companies are cutting back on product introductions, advertising and marketing, trade show attendance, sales commissions, and travel and entertainment.