Staffers from Safavieh Carpets discuss strategy before the start of Market.


Retailers, designers, rug makers and importers are gearing up for the Atlanta International Area Rug Market, which will take place Jan. 19-22 at the AmericasMart building in downtown Atlanta. To date, more than 1,500 retailers and close to 200 exhibitors plan to attend - a five-year high for the show, according to organizers.

Once again, the market will aim to provide a comprehensive array of area rug products and services for dedicated buyers and casual shoppers alike. Significantly, the show will host the "MOI: The Museum of Introductions," an annual showcase of the newest, most eye-catching area rug designs and technologies. Though it only debuted last year, the MOI has already risen in stature among the industry, organizers say.

Additionally, the Atlanta Rug Market will once again host the prestigious America's Magnificent Carpet Awards. Regularly attended by more than 1,500 retailers, the awards event will be held at the Marriott Marquis in downtown Atlanta. A panel of three judges will decide the winning handmade and machine-made entries based on several criteria, including how well the rug has been constructed, its aesthetic value, and the innovation and quality of its design. Retailers at the show will also have a hand in recognizing a distinctive rug, crowning one with the Most Popular Rug award. The winning rugs will then be displayed during the run of the show.

For more information, call (800) ATL-MART or visit www.AmericasMart.com.