Online digital platform MOM hosts eight-week ‘Digital Days’
The world’s largest living fair, ‘Maison&Objet 2021,’ was held from January 27 to March 19 on the digital platform ‘MOM (Maison&Objet and More).’ Now in its 26th year, Maison&Objet takes place every January and September, and amid the instability of the international situation caused by COVID-19, it was held online for the second time following last September.
This edition drew the participation of 3,155 brands from 73 countries, presenting 46,198 new products and 4,152 showrooms. Moreover, despite being held online, it welcomed 533,463 visitors over eight weeks, with the rate of increase in business opportunities recorded at 102%.
Under the title ‘Digital Days,’ the January 2021 Maison&Objet shed light on the key aspects of the home décor market with a new theme each week over eight weeks. In particular, this edition added a live chat function, enabling instant communication between brands and buyers. Thousands of design, home décor and lifestyle professionals connected online each week and were able to receive additional information, product specifications, quotation requests and more remotely.
Maison&Objet explained, “The online exhibition format, first unveiled last September, once again captivated every sector of the industry worldwide,” adding, “During this exhibition period, instead of the conventional physical experience, we delivered a new online experience over eight weeks based on eight themes centered on the industry’s seasonal trends.”
The eight themes of the January Maison&Objet consisted of △Unexpected Gift △Trendy Deco △Well at Work △Craft (métiers d’art) △Outdoor Living △Sustainable △Premium Design △So French.
The 24 digital talks, broadcast three times a week with subtitles, recorded a cumulative viewership of more than 11,000 views, proving Maison&Objet’s expertise in trend analysis. In these times of rapidly changing purchasing behavior, Maison&Objet, as always, delivers practical and inspiring advice recognized by all.
Meanwhile, the success of the online exhibition also points to the development of customized services aimed at certain trade associations. For example, the French Furniture Industries Association (Ameublement Français) held a new Digital Days with Maison&Objet over three days, from April 14 to 16, 2021, to promote its member companies to overseas buyers.
The new business model based on the data potential applied to these initiatives has been optimized by the Maison&Objet team since the launch of the digital platform five years ago. In this way, Maison&Objet is advancing its professional expertise in connecting people and generating potential customers. Maison&Objet is investing even further in its ability to bring people together both online and offline, and it continues to grow the industry, powered by the opportunities brought by new digital tools.
The Unexpected Gift theme introduced the latest trending objects and accessories that are surprising, creative, innovative and whimsical.
The Trendy Deco theme introduced the latest on-trend creative accessories, small furniture, soft textiles and decorative lighting that add style to interiors.
The Well at Work theme presented next-generation workspace design solutions and innovative products that are creative and inspiring within a balance between well-being and work.
The Craft (métiers d’art) theme exhibited a wide range of craft products, from handcrafted artisan pieces to contemporary items.
The Outdoor Living theme introduced a variety of outdoor furniture and accessories that can be used in outdoor spaces.
The Sustainable theme presented objects that embody eco-friendly and ethical values.
The Premium Design theme introduced new products from high-end home décor brands.
The So French theme presented products from French-style brands showcasing new trends.