If it’s hot, humid and June, it must be the time for the Fancy Food show in the Javits. Sure enough, in June 2013, I arrived at the entrance doing a good imitation of a human puddle. Thankfully, it took no time at all to see my first genuine trend of the...
I’ve been promoting Spa-culture for decades and quite a pro at it, but a recent trip to Hawaii made me realize that today’s spas have to do more than “treatments.” Spas are where modern people turn for rejuvenation and healing. They come there hemorrhaging from stress, overwork and fear...
As I made my way through the parade of super juices at this year's International Home + Housewares Show, I said to myself, “That’s the one!” Others might have been stalking the gorgeous organic linens and table top for the home pasha, but me? I was on the hunt for...
Once upon a time, companies that wanted to sell their products hired authentic experts, authority figures or authors with advanced academic or medical degrees, who seemed incorruptible, ethical and thoroughly reliable. They possessed a high degree of credibility and their own notoriety rubbed off on the brands they endorsed, either...
San Francisco, CA—2013 food trends just don’t drop out from thin air; they burst triumphant from the Fancy Food show. And at this winter’s extravaganza, convenience was at the top of everyone’s pitch. From Paper Chef (safe parchment paper bags or liners) to microwavable grains, to the once exclusively-canned fish...
Though far from a techie, I love hanging out with them. So, I am delighted in my fix this year at the Consumer Electronic Show (CES) in Las Vegas. At the dazzling show filled with USBs, monitors and appliances, my eye goes to the super- useful bauble. There were...
From healthier food and beverages we consume, to environmentally friendly cleaning products we use in our homes, Americans are demonstrating that we are increasingly conscious about making better choices. Price is less of an issue and we are loyal to brands that fit the socially responsible lifestyle we strive...
Things are getting fancier in the food industry as household staples get makeovers. The trend was evident at Winter Fancy Food Show in San Francisco’s Moscone Convention Center, January 15–17. This season’s event was full of surprises. Brownie Madness The news is brownies—different types of chocolates, different health benefits and...
A shop around the New York Gift Show August 14–16 with my trend-spotting eye revealed that everyday items are being package as gifts. And, it’s not the holiday fruitcake any longer. “People are willing to pay more for quality products, particularly for items that really stand out, especially chocolates...
I returned from the Summer Fancy Food Show (held in Washington, D.C. earlier this month) a little fuller and lot more educated. I had many “who knew” moments on the show floor this season. The first was at the Flamous booth where my new friend, Sam Shehayeb, showed me...
