Tabletop Brands Brace for Global Pressures at New York Trade Show

Manufacturers prepare to discuss war, inflation, and supply chain issues at upcoming Tabletop Show.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 8:25pm

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A high-end, photorealistic studio still-life photograph featuring a carefully arranged composition of premium ceramic plates, glassware, and metallic serving pieces set against a clean, monochromatic background, conveying a sense of quality, craftsmanship, and timeless design.As global pressures mount, tabletop brands showcase their most premium and artisanal offerings to captivate cautious retailers.Chicago Today

As the Tabletop Show approaches in New York next week, manufacturers are bracing for discussions around the war in the Middle East, rising prices, and potential shipping disruptions. Retailers are expected to be cautious, closely evaluating price positioning, margins, and supply chain stability when considering new brands. There is a strong interest in craft-driven and artisanal pieces that offer unique stories and stand out from widely distributed products.

Why it matters

The Tabletop Show is a key event for the home decor industry, where manufacturers showcase their latest dinnerware, glassware, and other tabletop products. Discussions around global pressures and their impact on the industry will shape buying decisions and product development for the coming year.

The details

Manufacturers anticipate conversations around the potential impact of the war in the Middle East, rising oil and raw material prices, and questions about tariff rebates. Retailers have reported slowing sales in certain product categories as prices have increased, leading to cautious buying and a focus on unique, craft-driven pieces that can tell a compelling story. Sustainable and low-impact products remain an important topic.

  • The Tabletop Show will take place in New York next week.
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The players

Holli Draughn

CEO of a tabletop manufacturer.

Debbie Hom Parker

Director of merchandising & program development for a tabletop brand.

Peter Themistocles

Representative of The Heres Guild, a trade organization.

Lisa Delgado

President and CEO of Orrefors Kosta Boda, a tabletop brand.

Sal Gabbay

CEO of a tabletop manufacturer.

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What they’re saying

“I think buyers will want to know if pricing strategies will change if tariff refunds are given, or if oil and raw materials are impacted by the Middle East [war].”

— Holli Draughn, CEO

“With retailers in somewhat of an unpredictable market, strategic conversations are expected to be had as well as the topic of tariffs.”

— Debbie Hom Parker, Director of merchandising & program development

“Buyers are looking for compelling stories to tell, that also merchandise well and fit a theme such as 'sustainable finds,' 'color pop' or 'host-ready,' to name a few.”

— Lisa Delgado, President and CEO

“Retailers felt good about business last year and in the first quarter. They're bullish on the economy. There is a certain hesitation, they're a little on edge, but overall, the market is closer to normal.”

— Sal Gabbay, CEO

What’s next

Manufacturers and retailers will closely monitor the potential impact of the war in the Middle East and rising prices on the tabletop industry as they make buying and product decisions for the coming year.

The takeaway

The Tabletop Show will be a crucial event for the home decor industry to navigate the complex global pressures impacting the market, with a focus on unique, craft-driven products that can tell compelling stories to consumers.