HIGH POINT – Some exhibitors expressed a sense of hope and optimism as the fall High Point Market opened on Saturday.

After a summer of declining sales for the furniture industry, an increase in retail for September may have paved the way for a more upbeat atmosphere at the market, which is celebrating its 100th anniversary.

“We’ve had very good traffic,” said Larry Scholze, national sales manager for GrassRoots imports, which has a showroom in the Interhall section of the International Home Furnishings Center. “The opening is stronger than we anticipated. If the rest of the week goes as well as the opening, it will be a great market.”

He said retailers were beginning to look for new inventory after maintaining a stagnant product line for about one and a half years.

Heinz Kattenfeld, CEO of 220 Elm, also said buyers surged into the building’s showrooms because retailers needed products that were new and fresh.

“The mood is more positive here amongst retailers and exhibitors alike,” he said. “I think everyone is hoping we’ve passed the low point in the economy.”

Officials from the Lenior-based Kincaid Chair Company also remained optimistic about the rest of the week based on what they saw Saturday morning.

“I think we’ve picked up since the spring (market),” said Brenda Kincaid, part owner of the company. “Everybody seems happy. I think the traffic flow will increase this time.”

The Phillips Collection, with a showroom in the IHFC, sold almost half of their wood tables on Friday, a day before market began, according to Jason Phillips, vice president with the company. “We have good traffic, but it is intermittent,” he said. “We are pleased with the turnout.”

The market continues its centennial celebration through Thursday, with Gavin DeGraw headlining its annual Stars Under the Stars event tonight at 7 p.m. at Center Stage.

phaynes@hpe.com | 888-3617