The virtual show will allow buyers to connect with 100 top gift and souvenir suppliers from across the U.S. with options to engage with them through live video, voice call or text chats using real-time tools or to set an appointment for a future date and time. Additionally, a live show floor will give buyers the opportunity to gain instant access to a full range of diverse exhibitors, downloadable presentations and video in a rich environment that is both mobile-friendly and interactive.
According to Bill McNulty, vGift owner/operator, the first virtual event is expected to be held in July, with two additional shows planned in 2025.
“I can bring the buyers and sellers together and recreate the in person show experience for those who want to maintain relationships with vendors and for those stores that for whatever reason can’t or don’t go to shows,” says McNulty, who has 15 years’ experience bringing together buyers and sellers in the gift and souvenir market. He was previously publisher of Independent Retailer magazine from 2009-2016 before moving to Souvenirs, Gifts & Novelties magazine from 2016 – 2021. McNulty also served as sales manager for the Las Vegas Souvenir & Resort Gift Show and Philadelphia Gift Show from 2021-2024.
“Anyone who is buying for a store in the resort, souvenir or general gift categories will find this is as close to the traditional show experience as you can get,” he says of the online platform. “High traffic locations can source rack programs just as easily as smaller locations can find displays and smaller quantities.”
According to McNulty, vendors benefit from not having to be away from their office and warehouse while still being able to meet face to face in real time with the buyers to build a personal relationship.
“The key to the buyer/seller relationship is frequency. So many times I have heard vendors say they wish they could skip a show or three each year to save time away, but feel like they need to see their existing customers. On vGift they can not only talk to their customers but set up mini showrooms and use the video calling feature to show them products and displays and keep the personal connection,” McNulty says.
Buyers can register for vGift Virtual Gift and Souvenir Show by going online to www.virtualgiftshows.com.
