For instance, a click into Bluffworks’ page, one of several manufacturers on the marquee in the “HUB Spotlight,” presents three items in the “Product Showcase”: The Gramercy Blazer, Ascender Chino and BluffCube Pro, accompanied by images and information. A video demonstrating the blazer shows why it is a Bluffworks bestseller.
Also shown are “Product Categories,” including apparel and accessories and corresponding price ranges. The manufacturer’s product subcategories, including scarves and suits, are noted, as are applicable licenses, brands and trademarks. The information is engaging, the imagery strong. The overall effect of the page is active yet streamlined and visually attractive.
“As a small growing online business, there were a couple of times we thought, ‘Maybe this year we can get to The Travel Goods Show,’” said Bluffworks’ Stephan Loble. “But now it looks like one of the side benefits of COVID might be the ability to access retail buyers so easily this year. We know our goods add value in a physical presence, and maybe this will help us break through.”
A click into Briggs & Riley’s individual page, found under “Featured Company Profiles,” reveals several different bags, including the Rhapsody Essential Tote, plus detailed product info and MSRP. Those unfamiliar with Briggs & Riley or who would like a refresher can view a recent brand video showing the breadth and scope of its luggage collections.
In addition to company overviews, product images and videos, etc., the HUB lets buyers perform keyword searches and get real-time updates but, perhaps best of all, it allows the research to be done anywhere – home, office, on the road, at the beach – and at any time, day or night.
“I think the HUB will be a great place to discover new vendors and products and to get a look at fresh, new products from vendors we already know and love,” said Tiffany Zarfas Williams of the Luggage Shop of Lubbock. “I especially enjoy viewing the videos on the featured company profiles. It’s a great way to spend a few moments getting to know a little more about a brand and their passion for their products,” she added.
Buyers need to register at the HUB (it’s free of charge) in order to get immediate access to all the available information. For manufacturers, having their company and product showcased on the site puts them squarely in front of thousands of verifiable buyers. The HUB is a destination for both and, as products are constantly being added and updated, both buyer and manufacturer will want to click in on a regular basis to see what’s new and what has changed.
“What a new and exciting offering to assist us in providing product information to our existing buyers and an introduction to new buyers in the retail travel channel,” said Hugh Mally, vice president of Go Travel.
The HUB is also a valuable resource for media covering travel gear and lifestyle topics. Upon registration, they’ll have full access to new products, trends, innovations and more. Media registration is free at the HUB website.
Visit www.travel-goods.org/hub-hotspot to learn how buyers log in to access the HUB and log on to see and experience the hottest new products and trends in the world of travel goods. For manufacturers, a visit to the site will show them how to get their new items in front of an ever-growing body of buyers.