# IGES

> International Gift Expo of the Smokies

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## Posts

- [Hotel Gift Cards Are Becoming Experience-Driven](https://iges.us/news/hotel-gift-cards-are-becoming-experience-driven/987504474/): Key Takeaways: Hotels are shifting from open-value gift cards to curated, bookable experiences, such as spa days, dining packages, and overnight stays, to drive higher conversion and guest satisfaction. Experience-led hotel gift cards unlock ancillary revenue by reaching local, non-room customers across restaurants, spas, and event spaces. Bundled hotel amenities packaged as gifts outperform generic Hotels are turning gift cards into bookable experiences like spa days and stay packages to boost conversion, value and guest loyalty.
- [How TikTok Is Shaping Spooky Season Travel Demand](https://iges.us/news/how-tiktok-is-shaping-spooky-season-travel-demand/987504471/): Key Takeaways: One in three TikTok users have booked travel after watching a video, with spooky-season destinations peaking in discovery-to-booking conversion every October. Short-form video compresses the travel purchase path; atmospheric content with clear booking steps can move a viewer from scroll to confirmed reservation in one session. Top Halloween destinations gaining TikTok momentum: Sleepy TikTok is reshaping spooky-season travel demand, turning short-form inspiration into faster bookings and higher-intent October trips.
- [Experience Gift Boxes Give Travel Retail a Low-Inventory Win](https://iges.us/news/experience-gift-boxes-give-travel-retail-a-low-inventory-win/987504460/): Key Takeaways: Experience gift boxes are a low-inventory, high-margin product category for souvenir, resort and destination retailers. Brands like Tinggly offer flexible gifting with no expiration date, redeemable across 100+ countries, reducing friction for travel retail buyers and shoppers alike. In-store merchandising near the register, a simple staff script and seasonal promotions drive consistent sell-through Experience gift boxes give travel retailers a low-inventory, high-margin product category that drives gifting appeal and stronger basket value.
- [How Pigeon Forge Turned Discounts Into Destination Engagement](https://iges.us/news/how-pigeon-forge-turned-discounts-into-destination-engagement/987504457/): Key Takeaways: Pigeon Forge's free Passport to Savings offers 90+ mobile discounts across retail, dining, lodging and attractions, no app required. Destination-wide digital savings programs drive foot traffic, lift average order value and move namedrop and seasonal inventory with minimal media spend. Effective Passport participation requires structured offers, trained staff, accurate listings and weekly tracking See how Pigeon Forge used mobile discounts to boost visitor engagement, drive foot traffic and turn simple savings into destination-wide impact.
- [Airport Retail Has a Discovery Problem — and a Conversion Gap](https://iges.us/news/airport-retail-has-a-discovery-problem-and-a-conversion-gap/987504452/): Key Takeaways: Airport retail conversion gap: 68% of travelers are influenced by AI or social media before trips, yet 64% leave stores without buying. Trust and price are the barriers: only 21% trust AI product suggestions, and nearly half question whether duty-free beats online pricing. Pre-trip research drives purchase readiness: travelers who reviewed airport retail Airport retail is losing sales despite strong digital discovery. Here's how trust, pricing and in-store clarity can help close the conversion gap.
- [The Rise of Edible Souvenirs](https://iges.us/news/the-rise-of-edible-souvenirs/987504378/): Key Takeaways: Edible souvenirs are a growing travel retail category; shelf-stable regional foods travel easily and sell well. U.S. Customs requires travelers to declare all food; steer customers toward sealed, shelf-stable goods and away from fresh produce, meat and perishable dairy. Clear labeling with country of origin, ingredients and net weight builds shopper confidence and Edible souvenirs are growing in travel retail as shoppers seek local, giftable foods that travel well and turn regional flavor into lasting memories.
- [How Theme Park Retail Becomes Part of the Guest Experience](https://iges.us/news/how-theme-park-retail-becomes-part-of-the-guest-experience/987504375/): Key Takeaways: Theme park retail drives per-cap spending when merchandise aligns with immersive land storytelling and emotional guest moments. Story-driven souvenirs, sensory keepsakes and locally sourced goods outperform generic merchandise by connecting products to lived experiences. A three-act assortment strategy, matching product type to guest behavior across morning, midday and evening, maximizes conversion throughout the Theme park retail works best when it extends the guest story with immersive merchandise, emotional moments and souvenirs tied to the experience.
- [What’s Driving Travel Retail in 2026?](https://iges.us/news/whats-driving-travel-retail-in-2026/987504372/): Key Takeaways: In 2026, traveler emotion drives purchases: relaxation, curiosity and dream destinations are the top motivators for gift and souvenir buyers. Namedrop, customizable and locally sourced products outperform generic souvenirs. The digital detox trend creates demand for analog keepsakes: journals, instant cameras, puzzles and sensory comfort kits. Use natural-language descriptions, place names and question-based Travel retail in 2026 is driven by emotion, local stories and practical keepsakes. See what shoppers want and what retailers should stock.
- [Luxury Hotels Are Becoming Powerful Beauty Brand Channels](https://iges.us/news/luxury-hotels-are-becoming-powerful-beauty-brand-channels/987504278/): Key Takeaways: Luxury hotels give beauty brands access to affluent consumers in high-dwell, low-distraction environments. In-room and spa placements outperform digital ads on brand resonance; one-third of guests who tried personal care products during a stay bought them afterward. Brands like Merit Beauty and L'Occitane use hospitality partnerships for global exposure through travel kits, spa Luxury hotels are emerging as powerful beauty brand channels, driving product discovery, brand resonance and retail follow-through.
- [Azamara Shopping Rewards Sets a New Standard at Sea](https://iges.us/news/azamara-shopping-rewards-sets-a-new-standard-at-sea/987504275/): Key Takeaways: Azamara Shopping Rewards is the cruise industry's first loyalty program linking onboard retail purchases to post-cruise benefits like fine wine, premium luggage and exclusive travel experiences. Guests earn points across retail categories, from fashion to fine jewelry, and redeem them for lifestyle rewards that extend brand engagement beyond the voyage. The program integrates Azamara Shopping Rewards links cruise retail purchases to post-cruise perks, giving guests more value and giving onboard shopping a new edge.
- [Beyond Summer: A Smarter Revenue Strategy for Fall Glamping](https://iges.us/news/beyond-summer-a-smarter-revenue-strategy-for-fall-glamping/987504272/): Key Takeaways: Fall glamping revenue grows through seasonal packages, selective pricing, and experience-led storytelling rather than discounting. Weekday rates, remote work packages, and foliage-timed offers convert shoulder season inventory into steady income. Curated on-site retail, including locally made and seasonal products, extends guest spend and builds repeat loyalty. Pre-arrival communication, winterized accommodations, and fresh fall Fall glamping can drive more revenue with seasonal packages, smart pricing and experience-led offers that extend demand beyond summer.
- [The Self-Serve Shift Is Reshaping What Travelers Buy](https://iges.us/uncategorized/the-self-serve-shift-is-reshaping-what-travelers-buy/987504259/): Key Takeaways: Self-serve travel planning has raised shopper expectations: travelers arrive primed for quality, clear value and trusted local knowledge. In-store tourism retail wins when it curates by context, not category, matching products to the guest's specific destination, season and travel style. Budget-conscious domestic travelers and "microcation" shoppers respond to tiered pricing, honest storytelling and Learn how self-serve travel planning is changing shopper behavior and what tourism retailers can do to boost trust, relevance and sales.
- [Disney Is Turning Souvenir Shipping Into a Better Guest Experience](https://iges.us/news/disney-is-turning-souvenir-shipping-into-a-better-guest-experience/987504256/): Key Takeaways: Disney World replaced value-based souvenir shipping with flat-rate bag pricing (from $19.97) and QR code checkout on Sept. 1, 2026, cutting friction and protecting retail sales on bulky items. Flat-rate, size-based shipping drives more purchases: guests spend more when shipping costs are predictable and tied to bag size, not merchandise value. A QR-led, See how Disney simplified souvenir shipping with flat-rate pricing and QR checkout to protect sales and improve the guest experience.
- [How Payment Friction Limits Hotel Retail Revenue](https://iges.us/news/how-payment-friction-limits-hotel-retail-revenue/987504253/): Key Takeaways: Siloed POS, PMS and ecommerce systems suppress hotel retail conversion, inflate reconciliation time and obscure demand signals across spa, dining and activity channels. Unified payments with one-click checkout, Apple Pay, Google Pay and stored credentials lift basket values; guests using Stripe's Link averaged 53% higher order values than traditional digital wallet users. Only See how payment friction cuts hotel retail revenue and why unified payments help increase conversion, streamline checkout and lift ancillary sales.
- [What Younger Travelers Expect From Souvenir Retail](https://iges.us/news/what-younger-travelers-expect-from-souvenir-retail/987504213/): Key Takeaways: Gen Z and millennials make up half of U.S. holiday travelers, driving demand for social-first, sustainable and namedrop souvenir products. Short-form video shapes purchase decisions; photogenic, locally tied products that invite in-store tagging see faster turns. Tiered pricing ($12 to $60+) captures both Gen Z's cautious budgets and millennials' higher planned travel spend. See how Gen Z and millennial travelers are reshaping souvenir retail through trends in sustainability, social sharing and personalization.
- [The Fall RV Wave Is Real, and It's Headed Your Way](https://iges.us/news/the-fall-rv-wave-is-real-and-its-headed-your-way/987504210/): Key Takeaways: Fall RV travel draws 23+ million Americans, creating a prime shoulder-season opportunity for souvenir and gift retailers near parks and scenic routes. RV shoppers favor compact, lightweight keepsakes, regional namedrop items, and travel essentials priced under $20. With 71%+ of RVers traveling with pets, pet-friendly souvenirs and travel accessories are a fast-growing retail Fall RV travel is driving retail opportunity. Learn how souvenir shops can tailor inventory, displays and timing to capture seasonal demand.
- [TSA-Friendly Souvenirs: What Retailers Need to Know](https://iges.us/news/tsa-friendly-souvenirs-what-retailers-need-to-know/987504206/): Key Takeaways: Novelty souvenirs like theme park popcorn buckets, wand boxes and weapon-shaped toys commonly trigger TSA screening; stock collapsible, clear-packaged or ship-ready alternatives to reduce friction. Brief, consistent associate scripts and printed receipt reminders help flying customers navigate airport security with fewer delays. Promoting ship-from-store as a default convenience protects sell-through on high-risk souvenir Learn which souvenirs trigger TSA screening and how retailers can stock smarter, reduce traveler friction and improve the customer experience.
- [Road Trip Season Is Bringing Shoppers Through the Door](https://iges.us/news/road-trip-season-is-bringing-shoppers-through-the-door/987504188/): Fall road trips are driving shoppers to gift and souvenir stores, creating opportunities for seasonal merchandising and local search visibility.Key Takeaways: Fall road trip season drives retail foot traffic to souvenir and gift shops, with millennials leading travel demand and favoring design-forward, experience-driven merchandise. Road trip shoppers prioritize compact, travel-friendly souvenirs: enamel pins, magnets, namedrop postcards, regional candles and lightweight textiles sell well. Bundling by trip type and dedicated road trip endcaps boost conversion;
- [What the Rise in Solo Female Travel Means for Retailers](https://iges.us/news/what-the-rise-in-solo-female-travel-means-for-retailers/987504185/): Key Takeaways: Solo female travel hit a record high in 2026; 64% of solo travelers value freedom, most are women, making travel retailers a prime purchase point. Top product categories include compact self-care kits, namedrop souvenirs, experience bundles and ship-to-home options in price tiers. City-specific merchandising, women-owned maker tables and impulse buys under $20 near Solo female travel is rising fast, giving retailers new opportunities in self-care, safety, convenience and travel-ready merchandise.
- [Shop Spotlight: Inside Hallmark’s Disney Springs Holiday Pop-Up](https://iges.us/news/shop-spotlight-inside-hallmarks-disney-springs-holiday-pop-up/987504182/): Key Takeaways: Hallmark is opening a limited-time holiday pop-up at Disney Springs in October 2025, tied to the Hallmark Channel film Holiday Ever After: A Disney World Wish Come True. The pop-up sells licensed, story-driven merchandise: character-inspired Keepsake Ornaments, film logo stationery, Disney-themed décor, and classic cards. Narrative context and limited inventory drive foot traffic, Hallmark’s Disney Springs holiday pop-up shows how licensed storytelling, limited inventory and seasonal merchandising can drive gift retail sales.
- [What Fall’s Luxury Travel Surge Means for Retail](https://iges.us/news/what-falls-luxury-travel-surge-means-for-retail/987504173/): Key Takeaways: Fall luxury travel bookings are up 30% YOY; shoulder-season demand now rivals summer peaks. Affluent travelers spending $2,000-plus per night expect premium, personalized and Made in America retail. Seasonal, experience-led merchandising outperforms generic displays for fall luxury shoppers. Retailers who plan fall as a peak season, with elevated assortments and on-site personalization, capture Fall luxury travel is rising fast. See how retailers can capture more spend with premium products, seasonal planning and local search visibility.
- [The Glamping Boom Is Changing Travel Retail](https://iges.us/news/the-glamping-boom-is-changing-travel-retail/987504170/): Key Takeaways: The U.S. glamping market is projected to reach $1.43 billion by 2031, a direct opportunity for travel, souvenir and gift retailers. Glamping guests are premium spenders; top retail categories include wellness products, cold-weather accessories, namedrop designs and pet travel gear. Retailer-operator partnerships, such as namedrop capsule collections, welcome bag inserts, and pre-arrival fulfillment, Glamping is reshaping travel retail as guests seek design-forward, practical and local products that extend the outdoor stay experience.
- [As Wine Travel Shifts, Retail Must Adapt](https://iges.us/news/as-wine-travel-shifts-retail-must-adapt/987504167/): Key Takeaways: U.S. wine tourism is shifting toward casual, drop-in experiences, with 16% of wineries cutting tasting fees in 2025. Retailers near wineries can capture freed-up budgets with grab-and-go products: insulated totes, tumblers and picnic gear. Namedrop and customizable products, like engraved corkscrews and region-specific art, drive higher-margin sales. Optimize for place-based discovery with regional Wine tourism is getting more casual. See how nearby retailers can capture more spend with grab-and-go products, local search and seasonal merchandising.
- [How Social Media Is Shaping Where People Travel and What They Buy](https://iges.us/news/how-social-media-is-shaping-where-people-travel-and-what-they-buy/987504162/): Key Takeaways: Social media influences travel decisions and in-destination purchases across all age groups; Millennials and Gen Z prioritize novelty, while Baby Boomers use it to validate destination choices. Travelers plan to share experiences before they arrive, making shareable displays, local authenticity and camera-friendly merchandising key drivers of tourism retail sales. Younger shoppers respond to See how social media shapes travel decisions and souvenir purchases, and how tourism retailers can turn posts, trends and local story into sales.
- [Travelers Are Paying More Attention to River Towns  — A Growing Opportunity for Tourism Retail](https://iges.us/news/travelers-are-paying-more-attention-to-river-towns-a-growing-opportunity-for-tourism-retail/987504159/): Key Takeaways: U.S. river towns are gaining traction as domestic travel destinations, driven by slow travel, road trips and demand for authentic, story-rich experiences. Tourism retailers in river towns sell best when assortments reflect local heritage, outdoor recreation and seasonal demand, anchored by namedrop items, artisan goods and limited-run festival merchandise. Spring and fall are See why U.S. river towns are drawing more travelers and how tourism retailers can turn local story, seasonality and partnerships into sales.
- [What Travel Booking Behavior Means for Tourism Retail](https://iges.us/news/what-travel-booking-behavior-means-for-tourism-retail/987504156/): Key Takeaways: Price sensitivity, convenience and social proof drive U.S. travel booking decisions and should shape tourism retail strategy. Social proof converts in-store: group best sellers with place-specific labels, encourage social tagging and use photo-forward merchandising. Hyper-functional souvenirs, quality namedrop items and use-case displays outperform generic product walls in tourism retail. Wellness, sustainability and affordable Learn how price, convenience and social proof shape travel bookings, and how tourism retailers can turn those signals into smarter merchandising.
- [Why Food Tourism Is a Big Opportunity for Retailers](https://iges.us/news/why-food-tourism-is-a-big-opportunity-for-retailers/987504128/): Key Takeaways: Food tourism is a growing retail opportunity: travelers plan trips around local food experiences, making region-specific products and namedrop souvenirs high-converting items for gift and souvenir retailers. The strongest food tourism strategies combine TSA-friendly formats, regional storytelling, and tiered price points to capture impulse buyers and intentional gift shoppers. Local partnerships with chefs, Discover how food tourism creates new retail opportunities through local products, destination storytelling and easier traveler purchasing.
- [How to Make Travel-Exclusive Products Sell](https://iges.us/news/how-to-make-travel-exclusive-products-sell/987504125/): Key Takeaways: Travel-exclusive products (TREX) sell when they're easy to find, easy to understand and placed where the right shoppers can actually see them. Shelf basics matter more than most brands admit: good facings, smart placement and clear signage are what turn a listing into a sale. Real growth means bringing in new buyers or Travel-exclusive products grow through clear positioning, strong shelf visibility, smart distribution and disciplined retail execution.
- [How Retailers Can Win the City-to-Sea Travel Trend](https://iges.us/news/how-retailers-can-win-the-city-to-sea-travel-trend/987504121/): Key Takeaways: City-to-sea travel is growing fast: 63% of travelers add an extra destination before heading home, creating dual merchandising opportunities for tourism retailers. City legs favor compact accessories, cultural mementos and travel-size wellness items; resort legs perform best with sensory keepsakes, recovery kits and eco-conscious goods. Dual-destination namedrop products bridge both legs and boost Learn how city-to-sea travel creates new retail opportunities through dual-destination products, smart merchandising and provenance-led storytelling.
- [How Practical Products Can Drive More Sales in Gift Shops](https://iges.us/news/how-practical-products-can-drive-more-sales-in-gift-shops/987504042/): Key Takeaways: Souvenir and gift shop retailers can boost average transaction value by stocking travel essentials like power banks, charging cables and universal adaptors alongside traditional keepsakes. Roughly 75% of travel essentials purchases are impulse buys, making front-of-store placement and cross-merchandising a high-conversion strategy for destination retailers. Gen Z shoppers, projected to make up 66% Learn how practical travel essentials can help gift shops boost sales, increase basket size and better meet modern traveler needs.
- [Historic Old Faithful Store Gets a Refresh for Today’s Visitors](https://iges.us/news/historic-old-faithful-store-gets-a-refresh-for-todays-visitors/987504039/): Key Takeaways: Delaware North modernized the Old Faithful Upper General Store in Yellowstone National Park, updating fixtures, lighting and wayfinding while preserving the building's national park rustic architecture. Curated merchandise includes Indigenous art, Made in USA products and Yellowstone-branded goods, organized for intuitive browsing. Sustainable fixture sourcing and regionally inspired design reflect a broader shift Historic Old Faithful Store refresh improves retail, dining and visitor flow while preserving the landmark’s character for today’s park guests.
- [What Experience-Driven Retail Looks Like for Gift Shops](https://iges.us/news/what-experience-driven-retail-looks-like-for-gift-shops/987504036/): Key Takeaways: Experience-driven retail blends entertainment and shopping to boost foot traffic, dwell time and purchase intent for gift shop retailers. Theme parks, immersive venues, food halls and mixed-use destinations create consistent visitor demand that benefits on-site and nearby gift shops. Gift shops in tourist corridors and attraction-adjacent locations gain the most, as experiential anchors Experience-driven retail helps gift shops boost foot traffic, dwell time and sales through immersive merchandising and destination-style shopping.
- [Summer 2026 Travel Accessories: What to Stock and Why](https://iges.us/news/summer-2026-travel-accessories-what-to-stock-and-why/987503912/): Key Takeaways: Utility wins in summer 2026 travel retail: Functional accessories outperform novelty on margin and sell-through. Pricing power comes from the story: Namedrops, UPF claims and personalization consistently push accessories to top-of-range price points. Floor placement and associate selling close the basket: Strategic fixtures and destination-led selling convert browsers into higher-ticket buyers. Answer traveler Inbound tourism is back. See how travel retailers can turn international visitor demand into sales with smarter merchandising and inventory.
- [Inbound Tourism Is Back and Travel Retailers Must Be Prepared](https://iges.us/news/inbound-tourism-is-back-and-travel-retailers-must-be-prepared/987503909/): Key Takeaway: International visitors spend $7,000+ per trip, stay ~17 nights and shop on 8 in 10 trips — making inbound tourism a high-value retail opportunity. Locally made, namedrop and destination-specific products outperform generic souvenirs with international buyers. Multilingual signage, global payment options and shipping services reduce friction and grow basket size. Staff training on Inbound tourism is back. See how travel retailers can turn international visitor demand into sales with smarter merchandising and inventory.
- [Are Amenities Becoming a Reason to Book? The Ritz-Carlton Is Cracking The Code](https://iges.us/news/are-amenities-becoming-a-reason-to-book-the-ritz-carlton-is-cracking-the-code/987503906/): Key Takeaways: Luxury hotels are turning curated amenity programs into booking differentiators and retail revenue drivers. Travel-size, location-aligned product drops increase basket size and brand recall. Cross-merchandising across beauty, sleep and food and beverage categories extends guest spend. Amenity programs built around minimalist luxury and functional design are a measurable competitive advantage. The Ritz-Carlton See how Ritz-Carlton turns curated amenities into booking drivers that boost guest experience, brand recall and hotel retail revenue.
- [Cruise Retail Is Becoming a Bigger Revenue Opportunity](https://iges.us/news/cruise-retail-is-becoming-a-bigger-revenue-opportunity/987503866/): Key Takeaways: 48% of cruise passengers visit onboard stores; 67% of those shoppers make a purchase. Exclusive products drive conversion: on Alaska sailings, exclusives account for more than half of onboard retail sales. Experiential retail, such as short in-store activations and product demos, raises dwell time and average transaction value. Crew expertise is a direct Cruise retail is becoming a stronger revenue driver as onboard shopping grows, exclusives convert and simple tactics lift sales.
- [What the America 250 Merchandise Rush Taught Retailers About Trust](https://iges.us/news/what-the-america-250-merchandise-rush-taught-retailers-about-trust/987503863/): Key Takeaways: Counterfeit America 250 merchandise flooded online marketplaces ahead of July 4, with fake "Made in USA" patriotic souvenirs from unverified sellers. The FTC's "all or virtually all" standard governs Made in USA claims; 2025 enforcement targeted flags, apparel, and accessories with misleading U.S. origin labels. Retailers with sourcing discipline, country-of-origin documentation, and supplier America 250 merchandise demand exposed the risks of counterfeit goods and weak origin claims, making trust and sourcing accuracy essential.
- [Gen Z Travel Trends Point to Literary Tourism](https://iges.us/news/gen-z-travel-trends-point-to-literary-tourism/987503860/): Key Takeaways: 30% of U.S. Gen Z travelers booked a trip after literary content inspired them, per Skyscanner's 2026 research, making literary tourism a measurable demand driver. BookTok travel, "readaway" trips and rising hotel searches using a library filter signal a durable shift in Gen Z travel behavior with direct retail implications. Travel retailers can Gen Z travelers are turning literary inspiration into real trips, creating new opportunities for retail, merchandising and destination strategy.
- [How a Buc-ee’s Kiosk Turned Pass-Through Traffic Into Visitor Action](https://iges.us/news/how-a-buc-ees-kiosk-turned-pass-through-traffic-into-visitor-action/987503855/): Key Takeaways: Temple, TX installed an interactive visitor kiosk inside a Buc-ee's travel center to convert pass-through traffic into local tourism spending, funded by the city's Hotel Occupancy Tax Fund. The Buc-ee's location draws an estimated 7.5 million visits per year, making it a high-impact site for digital wayfinding and in-destination visitor engagement. The touchscreen See how Temple used a Buc-ee’s visitor kiosk to turn pass-through traffic into local tourism action and convert traveler interest into spending.
- [What Mobility Data Reveals About World Cup Spending Patterns](https://iges.us/news/what-mobility-data-reveals-about-world-cup-spending-patterns/987503852/): Key Takeaways: World Cup matches at SoFi Stadium drove a 123% spike in sporting goods visits, 42% rise in hotel demand and 26% restaurant lift, confirming mega-events concentrate retail and hospitality demand into narrow pre-kickoff windows. Mobility data shows 48% of match-day devices near SoFi were non-local, signaling strong out-of-market visitor influx and elevated impulse See how mobility data reveals World Cup-driven spikes in retail, restaurant and hotel demand, helping local businesses plan for surge spending.
- [How Airport WiFi Analytics Helps Retailers Capture More Demand](https://iges.us/news/how-airport-wifi-analytics-helps-retailers-capture-more-demand/987503849/): Key Takeaways: Airport WiFi analytics links dwell time, visit counts and flow paths to three revenue streams: tenant leasing, advertising and food and beverage optimization. Unit-level dwell and visit data help retail teams identify underperforming tenants, fix conversion gaps and right-size category mix before lease renewals. First-party WiFi login data creates a verified, opted-in audience, See how airport WiFi analytics helps retailers track passenger dwell time, optimize placements and capture more airport retail demand.
- [What Hotel Beverage Growth Signals for Destination Retail](https://iges.us/news/what-hotel-beverage-growth-signals-for-destination-retail/987503829/): Key Takeaways: The NIQ and AHLA Hotel Beverage Study reveals strong on-property purchase intent among U.S. hotel guests, with soft drinks (47%), hot coffee (40%) and bottled water (31%) leading expected hotel beverage purchases across more than 50 hotel brands. Domestic travel growth, the rise of "bleisure" trips and hotel loyalty program engagement are creating Hotel beverage demand is rising, signaling new opportunities in destination retail, grab-and-go assortments and hotel-adjacent merchandising.
- [From The Screen To The Sale — How Entertainment Tourism Turns Fans Into Shoppers](https://iges.us/news/from-the-screen-to-the-sale-how-entertainment-tourism-turns-fans-into-shoppers/987503826/): Key Takeaways: Entertainment tourism and fan travel to filming locations drive measurable visitor spend at souvenir, gift and destination retail stores. Top U.S. entertainment tourism destinations include New York, Los Angeles, Albuquerque, Forks and Savannah — each tied to recognizable productions with built-in fan bases. Souvenir retailers capture fan spend by stocking place-specific, production-inspired products Entertainment tourism drives retail sales through fan travel, filming locations and place-specific merchandise that boosts conversion and spend.
- [How Haunted Tourism Turns Story Into Sales](https://iges.us/news/how-haunted-tourism-turns-story-into-sales/987503822/): Key Takeaways: Haunted tourism such as ghost tours, haunted hotels and dark heritage sites drive measurable local economic impact through extended stays, night-time retail spend and seasonal programming. Retailers grow revenue by stocking locally grounded merchandise: historic site maps, ghost walk candles and limited-run collectibles, paired with QR codes linking to verified oral histories. Responsible Haunted tourism boosts local retail through longer stays, nighttime spend and story-driven shopping tied to history, place and experience.
- [How Nostalgia Is Driving Travel in 2026](https://iges.us/news/how-nostalgia-is-driving-travel-in-2026/987503721/): Key Takeaways: Nostalgia travel is a major 2026 trend, with nearly half of Americans planning trips driven by memory, heritage and life events like reunions, anniversaries and birthdays. Gift, souvenir and resort retailers can capitalize by stocking namedrop and retro-inspired products, offering on-the-spot customization, and building tiered price points under $25, $50 and $100. In-store Nostalgia travel is shaping 2026. See how retailers can turn memory-driven trips into sales with retro products, pricing and experiences.
- [What Tighter Summer Travel Budgets Mean for Retail](https://iges.us/news/what-tighter-summer-travel-budgets-mean-for-retail/987503718/): Key Takeaways: Summer 2025 travel budgets are tighter, with most travelers spending $1,000 to $1,999 per trip and favoring road trips, short stays and secondary destinations. Gift shops can capture spend with tiered price architecture: clear "under $10," "under $15" and "under $20" sections anchored by magnets, keychains and namedrop items. Bundled road trip kits, Summer travel budgets are tighter, but demand remains. See how gift shops can win with tiered pricing, bundles and local souvenirs.
- [The Wellness Traveler Is Your Next Best Customer](https://iges.us/news/the-wellness-traveler-is-your-next-best-customer/987503715/): Key Takeaways: Wellness tourism is on track to surpass $1.4 trillion globally by 2027, making wellness travelers a high-intent, mainstream shopper segment for gift, souvenir and resort retailers. Wellness travelers buy outcomes, not objects. Merchandise grouped by feeling, such as sleep, stress relief and digital detox, converts faster and lifts average ticket size. Key wellness Wellness travelers are driving retail demand. Learn what products, merchandising and partnerships can turn the trend into steady revenue.
- [City Spotlight: Why Denver’s Tourism Numbers Matter for Souvenir Retailers](https://iges.us/news/why-denvers-tourism-numbers-matter-for-souvenir-retailers/987503595/): Key Takeaways: Denver welcomed a record 37.6 million visitors in 2025, generating $10.5 billion in visitor spending — a strong signal for destination and souvenir retailers. With 20.1 million overnight guests averaging 2.8-night stays, longer visits drive higher retail spend on namedrop gifts, wearable souvenirs, and local merchandise. Fly-in visitors (42% of traffic) favor lightweight, Denver’s 2025 tourism growth showed how visitor volume, overnight stays, and downtown demand can translate into stronger souvenir retail sales.
- [What Rising Domestic Travel Means for Tourism Retail](https://iges.us/news/what-rising-domestic-travel-means-for-tourism-retail/987503620/): Key Takeaways: Domestic travel is sustaining U.S. hotel occupancy and tourism retail foot traffic as international arrivals lag in 2025–2026. Short-stay, drive-market travelers — families, friend groups, multigenerational trips — are the dominant customer type; they spend on local, customizable, and namedrop products. Event-driven demand from conventions, festivals, and sports creates predictable retail surges; retailers Domestic travel is driving tourism retail opportunity, rewarding brands that align products, timing and convenience with traveler behavior.
- [How Travelers Shop When the Trip Is Built Around an Experience](https://iges.us/news/how-travelers-shop-when-the-trip-is-built-around-an-experience/987503617/): Key Takeaways: Experience-first travel drives purchase decisions: more than half of U.S. travelers attend a ticketed event on trips, with over a third citing it as the primary reason for the visit. Gen Z and Millennial travelers stay longer, spend more, and seek personalized merchandise, including namedrop items, quick-turn customization, and Made in America goods. Experience-first travel is reshaping retail, as event-driven trips boost demand for keepsakes, bundles and fast, flexible buying.
- [Hawaii’s Visitor Mix Is Changing. Here’s Why It Matters](https://iges.us/news/hawaiis-visitor-mix-is-changing-heres-why-it-matters/987503614/): Key Takeaways: Hawaii visitor spending rose 4.8% to $1.77 billion in April despite a 0.5% dip in arrivals, as average daily spend jumped 14.1% to $278 per person. Fewer, higher-spending travelers are driving Hawaii's tourism revenue growth, shifting the focus from volume to value for hotels, retailers, and experience operators. S. East arrivals surged 26.3%; Hawaii is earning more from fewer visitors, as higher daily spend and changing travel patterns reshape retail and tourism opportunity.
- [Longer Stays, Smarter Spending: What’s Happening at the Jersey Shore](https://iges.us/news/longer-stays-smarter-spending-whats-happening-at-the-jersey-shore/987503610/): Key Takeaways: Jersey Shore tourism is rebounding, with Atlantic City and Cape May reporting longer overnight stays and higher visitor spending despite lower daily foot traffic. Event-driven travel, including concerts, sports programming, and major watch parties, is fueling predictable surges in foot traffic and repeat visits at shore destinations. Value-conscious travelers are stretching budgets through Jersey Shore tourism is rebounding with longer stays and higher spending, creating new opportunities for souvenir and tourism retailers.
- [Chicago Airport Gift Shops Have Better Souvenirs Than You Think](https://iges.us/news/chicago-airport-gift-shops-have-better-souvenirs-than-you-think/987503607/): Key Takeaways: Chicago airport gift shops at O'Hare and Midway offer curated, locally made souvenirs and destination-branded products that model effective tourism retail. Top-performing travel retail items are compact, durable, and story-driven: city apparel, boxed chocolates, licensed sports gear, and museum gifts. Souvenir retailers can apply the airport retail model by prioritizing local origin, quality Chicago airport gift shops prove great souvenirs can be local, practical, and easy to pack, even in a last-minute travel setting.
- [Travel Is a Powerful Trigger for Retail Spending](https://iges.us/news/travel-is-a-powerful-trigger-for-retail-spending/987503604/): Key Takeaways: U.S. travelers spend an average of $670 per trip on non-travel purchases, making travel a high-intent retail signal across apparel, beauty, electronics, and travel gear. 64% of travelers buy at least one non-travel item while away, and 72% make at least one post-trip purchase, extending the retail window well beyond the trip itself. Travel sparks high-intent retail spending before, during, and after a trip, giving brands more chances to influence purchase decisions.
- [How Souvenir Retailers Can Meet Gen Z Expectations](https://iges.us/news/how-souvenir-retailers-can-meet-gen-z-expectations/987503601/): Key Takeaways: Gen Z travelers prefer sustainable, locally made souvenirs over mass-produced novelties, prioritizing authentic keepsakes with clear origin and material stories. Practical, compact items, such as artisan soaps, enamel pins, and regional food products, outperform generic keychains and magnets with younger shoppers. Digital keepsakes, including photo books, experience vouchers, and trip videos, are growing Gen Z travelers want sustainable, locally made souvenirs with authentic stories, practical value, and a stronger connection to place.
- [Marriott Design Shop Expands Hospitality Retail Into Home](https://iges.us/news/marriott-design-shop-expands-hospitality-retail-into-home/987503598/): Key Takeaways: Marriott Bonvoy Boutiques launched Design Shop, a hotel-inspired home decor and furniture retail concept featuring collections from W Hotels and Westin Hotels & Resorts. The concept translates signature hospitality design into shoppable home pieces, including platform beds, upholstered headboards, rugs and decorative accents built around tactile quality and hotel aesthetics. Destination-led seasonal collections Marriott Design Shop turns hotel style into home retail, showing how hospitality brands can extend guest affinity into everyday purchases.
- [The Rise of Wearable Souvenirs in Modern Travel](https://iges.us/news/the-rise-of-wearable-souvenirs-in-modern-travel/987503592/): Key Takeaways: Wearable souvenirs, including hats, scarves and totes, outperform novelty items in repeat wear because they blend utility, authenticity and personal story. Travelers choose customizable, destination-specific keepsakes tied to group travel and milestones over generic trinkets. Tourism retailers who offer wearable souvenir categories with low-lift customization, such as namedrop embroidery, drive stronger conversion and Wearable souvenirs like hats and totes are replacing novelty items as travelers seek practical, authentic keepsakes they’ll use again.
- [Summer Travelers Are Spending More but Traveling Smarter](https://iges.us/news/summer-travelers-are-spending-more-but-traveling-smarter/987503585/): Key Takeaways: U.S. summer travel demand is at a six-year low, but those who do travel are spending 17% more, averaging $4,069 on their longest trip. Travelers value comfort and total value over lowest price; bundled perks like breakfast, flexible cancellation and late checkout outperform broad discounts. Hotels lead at 81% of planned stays; higher
- [Why Real-Life Summer Planning Beats Generic Seasonal Campaigns](https://iges.us/news/why-real-life-summer-planning-beats-generic-seasonal-campaigns/987503623/): Key Takeaways: Summer marketing strategy works best when tied to real local moments, seasonal patterns and visitor behavior rather than generic themes or broad seasonal campaigns. Local search optimization, geotargeted social content and calendar-led promotions drive stronger conversion for retail and travel businesses during peak summer periods. Travel retail performance depends on reading predictable visitor Summer marketing works better when it follows real customer behavior, local timing and seasonal demand—not generic campaigns or broad themes.
- [Turning Wellness Experiences Into Revenue: A Retail Strategy For Hotels](https://iges.us/news/turning-wellness-experiences-into-revenue-a-retail-strategy-for-hotels/987502706/): How to turn wellness tourism and travelers into retail revenue opportunities. Creating wellness focus retail opportunities within hotel guest experiences.
- [IGES August Newsletter](https://iges.us/news/august-newsletter-2024/987501196/): We explore the reopening of New England's longest rail trail, delve into the allure of the American West, and celebrate the impact of three Black-owned hotels empowering their communities.
- [Why Wellness Tourism is the Next Big Thing in U.S. Travel](https://iges.us/news/why-wellness-tourism-is-the-next-big-thing-in-us-travel/987501408/): Wellness tourism is taking the U.S. travel industry by storm, reshaping how Americans approach vacations and self-care. Learn why this trend matters in 2025
- [What's Hot in Tourism Retail - December Edition](https://iges.us/news/whats-hot-in-tourism-retail-december-edition/987502045/): Welcome to the IGES Trade Show Newsletter. We look at the travel, tourism, and retail trends driving vacation travel plans of people around the U.S. Subscribe.
- [January Edition: What's Hot in Tourism Retail](https://iges.us/news/retail-january-edition-2025-newsletter/987502047/): Welcome to the IGES Trade Show Newsletter. We look at the travel, tourism, and retail trends driving vacation travel plans of people around the U.S.
- [February Edition: What's Happening in Travel, Tourism & Retail](https://iges.us/news/whats-happening-in-travel-tourism-retail-february-edition/987502049/): Welcome to the IGES Trade Show Newsletter. We look at the travel, tourism, and retail trends driving vacation travel plans of U.S. travelers.
- [April Edition: What's Hot in U.S. Tourism Retail](https://iges.us/news/april-edition-whats-hot-in-u-s-tourism-retail/987502501/): Welcome to the April 2025 newsletter. We examine the evolving dynamics of U.S. tourism, focusing on shifting travel behaviors and emerging opportunities for retailers.
- [May Edition: What’s Happening in Travel, Tourism & Retail](https://iges.us/news/may-edition-whats-happening-in-travel-tourism-retail/987502511/): Welcome to the May 2025 IGES newsletter. A look at the evolving dynamics of U.S. tourism, focusing on shifting travel behaviors and emerging opportunities.
- [7 Ways You Can Sell Merchandise Even When Your Store Is Closed](https://iges.us/news/7-ways-you-can-sell-merchandise-even-when-your-store-is-closed/4600/): Even though your store is closed, it doesn't mean that your retail shop can't make sales. Here are some creative ways to sell online and to local customers while your business is closed.
- [Five Ways to Keep Your Kids Busy at Home](https://iges.us/news/five-ways-to-keep-your-kids-busy-at-home/4617/): Kids at home? Here are five fun and creative ways to engage them while you're safer at home. From video painting to mental games, connect with your kinds in cool ways.
- [3 Best E-Commerce Platforms For Your Business](https://iges.us/news/3-best-e-commerce-platforms-for-your-business/4638/): The three best e-commerce and retail store website builders for brick-and-mortar businesses. See how Shopify, GoDaddy and Wix stack up.
- [ASD's Guide to Reopening Your Retail Store](https://iges.us/news/asds-guide-to-reopening-your-retail-store/4799/): Eight weeks after COVID-19 pandemic locked down our country, federal and state officials are slowly reopening. Some states are open; some have longer, more phased out plans. If you own a retail (non-food) business, you will not be able to simply turn the lights on and get back to business as usual. There are federal and
- [Are You Struggling to Pay Your Store’s Rent? You’re Not Alone](https://iges.us/news/are-you-struggling-to-pay-your-stores-rent-youre-not-alone/4909/): Millions of retailers and other businesses around the world are just trying to keep their heads above water due to the downturn of sales in light of the current pandemic. For many of these, because they are closed down until the situation is considered under control, rent is an expense that is seemingly unnecessary. Managing
- [Facebook Marketing & Ecommerce for Travel and Tourism Retailers](https://iges.us/news/facebook-marketing-e-commerce-for-travel-and-tourism-retailers/4919/): As you start to reopen your store, selling online and through social media are things you simply must invest your time in. As a retailer, you do your best to figure out what social networks your customers are on and how you can participate in a relevant way. Truth be told, you feel there are
- [Is Domestic Travel Helping or Harming National Parks?](https://iges.us/news/is-domestic-travel-helping-or-harming-national-parks/5081/): National parks, road trips and Airbnb staycations are top fall travel plans in 2020. Here’s how it’s impacting local travel and tourism businesses, towns and community residents. Travel and tourism have taken a serious blow because of COVD-19; the pandemic has brought travel to a near standstill. By the end of this year, it’s estimated
- [The Impact of COVID-19 on Zoos and Aquariums](https://iges.us/news/the-impact-of-covid-19-on-zoos-and-aquariums/5103/): Just weeks into the beginning of this year, it seems as if the world came to a bit of a screeching halt thanks to COVID-19. Unfortunately, visits to zoos and aquariums, popular spots during the spring and summer months, were no exception. Statistics show that over 700 million people visit aquariums and zoos worldwide. This
- [How The Cruise Industry is Navigating COVID-19](https://iges.us/news/how-are-cruise-ships-navigating-covid-19/5196/): Until recently, cruises were the fastest growing sector of the travel industry. In the past five years, the demand has increased by 20.5 percent. In the global cruise market, there are over 50 cruise lines and more than 270 ships, however, just around 75 percent of the market is controlled by three main players. These
- [COVID-19 Will Change How Museums Make Money](https://iges.us/news/how-covid-19-will-change-how-museums-make-money/5482/): Museum revenues were already declining before the pandemic, but COVID-19 has ushered in a new era of planning for cultural organizations and nonprofits. With limited federal funds available for cultural organizations, future revenue growth lies in growing income through digital channels, offering unique programming, and creating new experiences for patrons.
- [5 Ways Museums, Zoos & Parks Brought Joy to People During COVID-19](https://iges.us/news/5-ways-museums-zoos-parks-brought-joy-to-people-during-covid-19/5726/): Five uplifting and creative ways that zoos, aquariums, and parks marketed to their customers during COVID-19. How zoos and aquariums brought joy to fans.
- [6 Things That Matter to Your Customers This Holiday Season](https://iges.us/news/6-things-that-matter-your-customers-this-holiday-season/6042/): Wondering how COVID-19 will affect your retail business this holiday season? We look at how COVID-19 will influence how shoppers purchase gifts this holiday season.
- [Stock Fantastic Food Staples for People Who Want to Cook This Holiday](https://iges.us/news/product-trends-stock-fantastic-food-stuffs-because-people-love-to-cook/4628/): A look at how home cooking trends are driving customer purchases. Learn what cooking products, specialty foods and at-home meal kits people are purchasing.
- [We're Colocating with the Smoky Mountain Gift Show](https://iges.us/news/were-colocating-with-the-smoky-mountain-gift-show/6135/): The Shows are ON: Tennessee Market Week Hosts International Gift Expo of the Smokies and Smoky Mountain Gift Show Emerald, owner of the International Gift Expo of the Smokies (IGES), along with Clarion Events, owner of the Smoky Mountain Gift Show, today announce two of the gift, resort and souvenir industry’s most comprehensive buying events
- [How Online Marketplaces Can Lead to Higher Revenue for Food & Beverage Suppliers](https://iges.us/news/how-online-marketplaces-can-lead-to-higher-revenue-for-food-beverage-suppliers/6435/): If you sell food stuffs or specialty food items, now is a great time to use online marketplaces and virtual trade shows to expand your product distribution.
- [People Need People: Why Trade Shows Matter](https://iges.us/news/people-need-people-why-trade-shows-matter/6475/): Events, conferences, and trade shows may be on shaky ground now, but post-pandemic, the live events will see a revival. Why? People need in-person interactions and experiences. Boy, has it been a year. Or should I say, an almost year. For someone who’s been heavily involved with marketing live events and conferences through online channels
- [Our 2020 Show Was A Success; We Surpassed Customer Expectations and Sales](https://iges.us/news/our-2020-show-was-a-success-we-surpassed-customer-expectations-and-sales/6479/): Emerald, owner of the International Gift Expo of the Smokies (IGES), and sister event to ASD Market Week celebrated a key milestone for the organization and the expositions industry as a whole. IGES, the most comprehensive souvenir, resort, and specialty gift trade show in the U.S., successfully and safely reunited brands, wholesalers, and buyers on
- [Is Tourism-Based Retail Recovering?](https://iges.us/news/is-tourism-based-retail-recovering/6548/): How our local and tourism-based retail businesses in the U.S. are recovering. Retailers, museums, parks, and other tourist attractions are planning to expand.
- [The Year of the Road Trip](https://iges.us/news/2021-the-year-of-the-road-trip/6556/): More Americans are traveling domestically. 2021 is set to be the year of the Great American Road Trip. Learn what this means for tourism based businesses.
- [5 Sustainable Brands You'll Find at IGES](https://iges.us/news/5-sustainable-brands-youll-find-at-iges/6910/): There are many amazing retail brands that are made in the U.S. Here are five sustainable, eco-conscious, made in America brands you'll find at IGES.
- [IGES Is Over, But You Can Shop The Show Year Round!](https://iges.us/news/iges-is-over-but-you-can-shop-the-show-year-round/6482/): As you've read, our 2020 show happened safely and successfully. If you couldn't attend, that's okay, you can still show your favorite companies in case you need products for spring and summer. To help our attendees and exhibitors connect, we've partnered with ASD to create a virtual marketplace for you. Exhibitors Create A Free Account
- [6 Amazing Local Brands That Call Tennessee Home](https://iges.us/news/6-amazing-local-brands-that-call-tennessee-home/6916/): Local businesses are prime examples of everyday treasures; they hold a kind of magic that’s all their own. Here are six retail brands based in Tennessee.
- [Meet Sarah Philpott: Tennessee Farm Gal, Author, and Mother](https://iges.us/news/meet-sarah-philpott-tennessee-farm-gal-author-and-mother/7348/): Meet Sarah Philpott: Tennessee Farm Gal, Author, and Mother. Read our interview with the author of "The Growing Season" and meet her in person at IGES.
- [IGES Vendor Preview and Buyer Events](https://iges.us/news/iges-2021-buyer-events/7594/): We’re extremely excited for the show this year. With less than one month, here’s a preview of the merchandise you will find at this year’s event. For those of you attending this year, our annual IGES Hoedown is happening and of course, our buyer matchmaking services are available. This year, we’ve created the Campground
- [Use Facebook and Instagram to Drive Merchandise Sales](https://iges.us/news/use-facebook-and-instagram-to-drive-merchandise-sales/13874/): How theme parks, amusement parks, zoos, and museums can use Facebook shop and Instagram shopping to drive retail sales online.
- [Product Trends: What Will Be Top Gift Shop Sellers](https://iges.us/news/product-trends-what-tourists-love-top-gift-shop-sellers/4633/): Stores will start to open in the next six weeks, the way we do retail will change. When it comes to gift stores, the items set to start trending are cost-effective gifts that help make recipients feel good.
- [15 Amazing Things to Know About Tennessee](https://iges.us/news/15-amazing-things-to-know-about-tennessee/6728/): We love Tennessee, we started here. Since our show is back on track and the people are traveling, we though it would fun to share some interesting facts about our state.
- [Travel Retail Market Spotlight: The Products Vacationers Can't Resist](https://iges.us/news/travel-retail-market-top-merchandise-consumers-cant-resist/16378/): The travel retail market encompasses a wide array of products and services that cater to the needs and desires of travelers, from luxury goods to everyday necessities.
- [The Hottest U.S. Travel Trends of 2023: Unveiling Must-Visit Destinations and Experiences](https://iges.us/news/the-hottest-u-s-travel-trends-of-2023-unveiling-must-visit-destinations-and-experiences/16393/): The Hottest U.S. Travel Trends of 2023: From eco-tourism to sustainable travel, culinary experiences to wine tours, here are the top summer travel destinations.
- [Using Google to Market Your Business Locally](https://iges.us/news/using-google-to-market-your-business-locally/5707/): Google’s products for retailers are important for building awareness of your business, developing your customer base, and driving in-store and online sales
- [IGES June Newsletter](https://iges.us/news/june-newsletter-2024/987501204/): Welcome to our latest newsletter, where we delve into summer travel trends. We’re also looking at the ever landscape of zoo, aquarium, and theme park attendance.
- [IGES July Newsletter](https://iges.us/news/iges-july-newsletter/987501201/): We delve into summer travel trends. From budget travel to nostalgia trips to outdoor escapades, there's a wealth of travel experiences for the rest of 2024.
- [IGES September 2024 Newsletter](https://iges.us/news/iges-september-2024-newsletter/987501361/): What's happening in travel and tourism retail. From theme parks to zoos, cruise ships to aquariums, become an expert at selling to seasonal guests and visitors.
- [October Newsletter: What's Hot in Tourism Retail](https://iges.us/news/october-newsletter-whats-hot-in-tourism-retail/987501840/): From theme parks to national parks, here's a look at how traveler are vacationing in the US. Retail merchandise, consumer attitudes, and top destinations.
- [November Newsletter: What's Happening in Retail Tourism](https://iges.us/news/november-newsletter-whats-happening-in-retail-tourism/987501844/): What's happening in travel and tourism from a retail business standpoint. A look at fall traveler destinations, patterns and destinations.
- [March Edition: What's Happening in Travel, Tourism & Retail](https://iges.us/news/march-edition-whats-happening-in-travel-tourism-retail/987502499/): March 2025 Newsletter for IGES, what's happening in travel and tourism retail. What museums, tourist attractions, and parks need to know.
- [Merchandising Magic: Transforming Visitors into Retail Customers](https://iges.us/news/retail-merchandising-magic-transforming-visitors-into-customers-at-zoos-theme-parks-and-tourist-attractions/16429/): Retail merchandising plays a crucial role in selling tourism related merchandise. Here's how hotels and travel destinations can improve their store displays.
- [June 2025: What's Hot in U.S. Tourism Retail](https://iges.us/news/june-2025-whats-hot-in-u-s-tourism-retail/987502503/): June 2025 IGES newsletter. This month, we explore fresh insights into U.S. domestic travel behavior across families, solo travelers, and luxury seekers, along with new inspiration for retailers and attractions adapting to these shifts.
- [US Tourism Trends 2025: What Consumers Want and Expect](https://iges.us/news/us-tourism-travel-trends-2025/987501392/): From wellness tourism to climate conscious vacations, here are consumer values, wants and expectations that travelers want when exploring the US in 2025.
- [July Edition: What’s Hot in U.S. Tourism Retail](https://iges.us/news/july-edition-newsletter/987502617/): Travel and retail tourism news. Discover where domestic travelers are going, what they're buying, and how their behavior patterns are shifting.
- [August Edition: What's Hot in Retail Tourism](https://iges.us/news/august-edition-whats-hot-in-retail-tourism/987502620/): Subscribe the IGES newsletter. We bring you fresh data, credible insights, and actionable ideas — keeping your tourism retail strategy ahead of the curve.
- [Fall/Winter Travel 2025: The Experiences and Destinations Travelers Want](https://iges.us/news/us-fall-winter-travel-trends-2025/987502675/): Where travelers are going this fall and winter? The travel destinations, experiences and programs travels are spending money on in 2025.
- [Why 2026 Is the Pivotal Year for U.S. Wellness Tourism](https://iges.us/news/2026-wellness-tourism-trends-us/987502681/): In 2026, American travelers are prioritizing mental and physical health. From sleep to longevity, wellness tourism is where U.S. consumers are spending money.
- [5 Ways Cultural Attractions Can Increase Their Revenue in 2025](https://iges.us/news/5-ways-to-increase-your-revenue/5735/): Five ways U.S. zoos, museums, aquariums, park, and cultural organizations, can increase their revenue 2025. Memberships, experiences and retail sales advice.
- [What’s Hot in U.S. Tourism + Retail — October 2025](https://iges.us/news/iges-newsletter-october-2025-edition/987502904/): What's happening in U.S. travel and tourism. Retail trends, travel behavior and where people are going. Learn more about what's driving people to travel.

## Pages

- [Home](https://iges.us/): America's largest premiere wholesale souvenir and resort gift trade show in Tennessee's Smoky Mountains. Find premium retail merchandise from 1,000 companies.
- [Made In America Pavilion](https://iges.us/pavilions/made-in-america/): Support U.S. craftsmanship at IGES’ Made in America Pavilion, the premier Tennessee souvenir & gift trade event. Find gifts and retail products made in America.
- [Hotels](https://iges.us/planning/hotels/): Find convenient hotel options for your IGES Trade Show visit. Book accommodations at the best rates in the city for IGES attendees and exhibitors.
- [Contact Us](https://iges.us/contact-us/): Get in touch with IGES organizers for inquiries about the Southeast’s leading regional gift & travel merchandise show. Talk to our sales or buyer relations team.
- [FAQs](https://iges.us/faqs/): Find answers to FAQs about IGES, the regional Tennessee trade show for travel merchandise & souvenirs. If you have questions, find answers here.
- [About the Show](https://iges.us/about-iges/): Discover IGES, Tennessee's leading wholesale trade show for gifts and souvenirs. Find thousands of gifts, souvenirs and retail merchandise for your store.
- [Exhibitor Directory](https://iges.us/exhibitor-directory/): Browse exhibitors at IGES, the top regional Tennessee travel merchandise and souvenir trade show in the US. Find your next best seller here.
- [Matchmaking Service](https://iges.us/matchmaking/): IGES matchmaking connects buyers & vendors at Tennessee’s top regional travel merchandise & souvenir show. Free services for all IGES retail buyer attendees.
- [Buyer Bucks](https://iges.us/buyer-bucks/): Earn Buyer Bucks at IGES—redeemable rewards at the premier Tennessee souvenir & gift show and US travel merchandise expo. Extend your purchase order power.
- [Tennessee Market Week](https://iges.us/tennessee-market-week/): Tennessee Market Week at IGES: largest U.S. gift show with travel souvenirs & resort merchandise in Tennessee.
- [Show Dates and Hours](https://iges.us/dates-hours-rules/): Get essential information on IGES Trade Show dates, hours, and attendance rules. Plan your visit to source the best wholesale merchandise for your tourism or seasonal business.
- [Why Attend](https://iges.us/why-attend/): IGES is a must-attend event for tourism and seasonal retailers. Access unique products, network with suppliers, and grow your business at this premier wholesale trade show.
- [Pavilions at IGES](https://iges.us/pavilions/): Browse IGES Trade Show's specialized pavilions to find new gifts, souvenir products, and merchandise for your store. Find your news seasonal bestseller.
- [Attendee Connect](https://iges.us/connect/): Connect buyers & exhibitors at IGES through our mobile app, the top Tennessee regional gift show and travel merchandise trade event in the U.S.
- [New Vendors Page](https://iges.us/new-vendors/): Showcase of new vendors at IGES, the top travel merchandise & regional Tennessee gift show in America. Find new exhibitors at both our show locations.
- [Exhibitor Resource Center](https://iges.us/exhibitors/exhibitor-resource-center/): Access essential resources for IGES exhibitors. Find booth setup guidelines, marketing tools, and logistical information to maximize your success at this premier gift and souvenir trade show.
- [Hosted Buyers](https://iges.us/hosting/): Become a Hosted Buyer Exclusive Access to IGES Experience the ultimate in trade show luxury with our VIP Buyer Program, designed to elevate your IGES experience with unparalleled benefits and opportunities. Apply Now Hosting opportunities for IGES 2026 are now closed. Thank you for your interest! Discover the Hosted Buyer Program The IGES Hosted Buyer
- [Campground Pavilion](https://iges.us/pavilions/campground/): Discover the Campground Pavilion at IGES—outdoor travel, recreation and souvenir trade show products in Tennessee. Find products travelers want to buy at IGES.
- [Sustainable Pavilion](https://iges.us/pavilions/sustainable/): Visit the Sustainable Pavilion at IGES, a regional Tennessee and U.S. travel merchandise trade destination. Find sustainably focused products from brands.
- [Toy + On Trend Pavilion](https://iges.us/pavilions/toy-ontrend/): Explore the Toy + On Trend Pavilion at IGES—the top Tennessee resort and travel merchandise expo in the U.S. Register to Attend our next show today.
- [Vendor Preview](https://iges.us/vendor-preview/): Preview IGES Trade Show vendors. Find new suppliers and products for your tourism, attraction, or seasonal retail business.
- [Sustainability In Retail](https://iges.us/sustainabilityinretail/): Limited Space – Reserve Today (View Pricing) The International Gift Exposition in the Smokies is proud to offer a fireside chat around Sustainability in Retail Expand your knowledge of Sustainability through the key elements of Environmental, Social, and economic impact. By the end, you will be able to make confident, informed decisions when purchasing sustainable
- [Product Submission](https://iges.us/call-for-submissions/): Product Submission Get Featured for Free As an IGES exhibitor, you have a unique, FREE opportunity to get exposure to thousands of potential buyers. Submit your most popular, trending, and best-selling products to be featured in our Vendor Preview and Social Media. The Vendor Preview is a print and digital sneak peak of products that
- [Shuttle Schedule](https://iges.us/shuttle/): Shuttle schedules & services between venues at IGES, the premier regional Tennessee souvenir & gift show. Get detailed directions and transportation options.
- [Experience Tennessee](https://iges.us/planning/experience-tennessee/): Enhance your IGES Trade Show visit by experiencing Tennessee's attractions. Discover local culture, entertainment, and dining options while sourcing wholesale gifts and souvenirs.
- [Transportation / Directions](https://iges.us/planning/transportation-directions/): Plan your trip to IGES. Get detailed directions, transportation options, and venue information for this leading wholesale gift and souvenir marketplace.
- [Latest](https://iges.us/latest/): @ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50Ijoic2l0ZV90aXRsZSIsInNldHRpbmdzIjp7ImJlZm9yZSI6IjxoMT4iLCJhZnRlciI6IjwvaDE+In19@ Insights domestic travel hotel gift shop modern travel consumer behavior tourism trends travel retail souvenirs tourism trends travel retail community consumer behavior domestic travel airport gift shop modern travel travel retail consumer behavior domestic travel hotel gift shop travel retail domestic travel souvenirs tourism trends tourism trends travel retail travel spending hotel gift shop
- [Why Exhibit](https://iges.us/exhibitors/why-exhibit/): Discover the advantages of exhibiting at IGES Trade Show. Reach key buyers from tourism and tourism retail sectors, expand your wholesale accounts.
- [Exhibit / Inquire](https://iges.us/exhibitors/register-to-exhibit/): Exhibit / Inquire Connect with thousands of Wholesale Resort and Souvenir Buyers at our Annual Gift Show The International Gift Exposition in the Smokies® is the premier destination for wholesale resort, souvenir and gift merchandisers and retailers. With it’s one-of-a-kind setting and generous mix of what’s known and what’s new, IGES offers vendors and retailers
- [Show Guide Specs](https://iges.us/adspecs/): Advertising specs for the official 2025 IGES Show Guide.
- [Exhibitor Connect](https://iges.us/exhibitors/exhibitor-connect/): IGES Connect is designed to enhance your show preparation and streamline your on-site experience.
- [Digital Offerings for IGES Exhibitors](https://iges.us/exhibitors/digital-offerings/): The New 2026 Digital Offerings for IGES Exhibitors IGES Online Powered by Bulletin Your booth package now includes technology that will maximize ROI beyond the show floor. The Package Your booth now includes year-round visibility and powerful tools to keep you connected with buyers beyond the show. Every exhibitor gets access to the online directory
- [Show Photos and Video](https://iges.us/show-photos-and-video/): View photos & videos from IGES, America’s top travel merchandise & Tennessee gift show experience. Find photos to use in your IGES marketing and promotion.
- [Made in America for Exhibitors](https://iges.us/made-in-america-exhibitors/): Meet Made in America vendors at IGES—the leading U.S. travel souvenir & Tennessee gift show. Find products made in the USA by American-founded brands.
- [Subscribe](https://iges.us/subscribe/): Subscribe to the Gifted Newsletter Where travelers are going, what they’re buying, and how culture shapes their travel preferences. By subscribing, you have read our Privacy Policy and agree to our Terms of Use. Previous Newsletter Editions
- [Show Planner](https://iges.us/show-planner/): Retail buyers can use the IGES show planner to plan their itineraries at the IGES Gift Show. Breakfast, vendor meetings, and free events are all in one app.
- [Why Visit Sevierville](https://iges.us/why-visit-sevierville/): IGES operates in two locations - Pigeon Forge and Sevierville, TN. Each gift show location offers buyer crossover days with free transportation between venues.
- [Sustainable Vendors @ IGES](https://iges.us/sustainable-vendors/): Meet sustainable vendors at IGES, the premier Tennessee regional & U.S. travel merchandise trade show. Find your next best seller at our next event.
- [Sevierville, TN](https://iges.us/sevierville-tn/): Visit IGES Sevierville, the flagship Tennessee regional gift show and U.S. travel souvenir trade event. Learn about our sister location when you attend IGES.
- [Terms & Conditions](https://iges.us/terms-conditions/): Terms & Conditions Attendee grants Emerald the right to use Attendee’s name, image and likeness, including but not limited to any photographs or video taken of you at the show, for marketing purposes. ATTENTION: Exhibitors and Sponsors at IGES may utilize badge scanning in order to follow up with you after the show. Please be
- [Exhibitors](https://iges.us/exhibitors/): Exhibitors Exhibit / Inquire Why Exhibit Staff Badges Advertising / Sponsorship Exhbitor Resource Center Custom Promotional Tools Sign Up to Get an Email Reminder Once Attendee Reg Opens! Remind Me Interested in Exhibiting? Click here. Stay Updated Subscribe to find out whose attending the show, what events and features we’ve organized, and how you can
- [Site Map](https://iges.us/site-map/): @ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50IjoicG9zdF90aXRsZSIsInNldHRpbmdzIjp7ImJlZm9yZSI6IiIsImFmdGVyIjoiIn19@ Show About the Show Show Dates & Hours Campground @ IGES FAQ Contact us Attendee Register to Attend Why Attend Buyer Resources Vendor Directory Exhibitors Exhibit / Inquire Why Exhibit Advertising / Sponsorship Exhibitor Resource Center Free Promotional Tools Plan Your Trip Book Hotel Transportation / Directions Shuttle Schedule Experience Tennessee Events & Features
- [Plan Your Trip](https://iges.us/planning/): Plan Your Trip Book Hotel Transportation / Directions Shuttle Schedule Tourist Events & Offers Mobile App Download Sign Up to Get an Email Reminder Once Attendee Reg Opens! Remind Me Interested in Exhibiting? Click here. Stay Updated Subscribe to find out whose attending the show, what events and features we’ve organized, and how you can
- [Exhibitor Hub](https://iges.us/exhibitors/exhibitor-hub/): Access the IGES Exhibitor Hub, the resource center for vendors at the leading U.S. regional Tennessee gift show. Everything you need to for success at IGES.
- [Official Sweepstake Rules](https://iges.us/sweepstake-rules/): “IGES Swag Station” Sweepstakes Official Rules 2025 International Gift Expo in the Smokies – Sweepstakes OFFICIAL RULES ELIGIBILITY; METHOD TO ENTER; SUBMISSION GUIDELINES. The 2025 IGES Sweepstakes (the “Sweepstakes”) is only open to legal residents of the continental U.S. and Canada, who are in the age of majority for their region at the time

## Exhibitor Pages

- [Flyer](https://iges.us/exhibitors/custom-promotional-tools/flyer/)
- [Social Media Images](https://iges.us/exhibitors/custom-promotional-tools/social-media-images/)
- [Personalized Web Banners](https://iges.us/exhibitors/custom-promotional-tools/personalized-web-banners/)
- [General Promo Image](https://iges.us/exhibitors/custom-promotional-tools/general-promo-image/)
- [Email Signature](https://iges.us/exhibitors/custom-promotional-tools/email-signature/)
- [Animated Web Banners](https://iges.us/exhibitors/custom-promotional-tools/animated-web-banners/)
- [Add To Calendar](https://iges.us/exhibitors/custom-promotional-tools/add-to-calendar/)

## Types

- [Uncategorized](https://iges.us/uncategorized/)
- [News](https://iges.us/news/)

## Tags

- [gift stores](https://iges.us/tag/gift-stores/)
- [covid-19](https://iges.us/tag/covid-19/)
- [Museum Stores](https://iges.us/tag/museum-stores/)
- [museums](https://iges.us/tag/museums/)
- [revenue](https://iges.us/tag/revenue/)
- [trends](https://iges.us/tag/trends/)
- [advertising](https://iges.us/tag/advertising/)
- [google](https://iges.us/tag/google/)
- [marketing](https://iges.us/tag/marketing/)
- [community](https://iges.us/tag/community/)
- [national parks](https://iges.us/tag/national-parks/)
- [zoos and aquariums](https://iges.us/tag/zoos-and-aquariums/)
- [Tourist Businesses](https://iges.us/tag/tourist-businesses/)
- [exhibiting at IGES](https://iges.us/tag/exhibiting-at-iges/)
- [online marketplaces](https://iges.us/tag/online-marketplaces/)
- [virtual tradeshows](https://iges.us/tag/virtual-tradeshows/)
- [travel trends 2025](https://iges.us/tag/travel-trends-2025/)
- [sustainability](https://iges.us/tag/sustainability/)
- [technology](https://iges.us/tag/technology/)
- [consumer behavior](https://iges.us/tag/consumer-behavior/)
- [travel trends](https://iges.us/tag/travel-trends/)
- [travel spending](https://iges.us/tag/travel-spending/)
- [souvenirs](https://iges.us/tag/souvenirs/)
- [modern travel](https://iges.us/tag/modern-travel/)
- [tourism trends](https://iges.us/tag/tourism-trends/)
- [hotel gift shop](https://iges.us/tag/hotel-gift-shop/)
- [travel retail](https://iges.us/tag/travel-retail/)
- [airport gift shop](https://iges.us/tag/airport-gift-shop/)
- [domestic travel](https://iges.us/tag/domestic-travel/)
- [travel essentials](https://iges.us/tag/travel-essentials/)
- [glamping](https://iges.us/tag/glamping/)

## Topics

- [Blog](https://iges.us/topic/blog/)
- [Uncategorized](https://iges.us/topic/uncategorized/)
- [News](https://iges.us/topic/news/)