Hot-lanta

Published March 17, 2010

The 2010 winter market at AmericasMart in Atlanta was notable for a number of reasons – not the least of which was the positive talk among attendees predicting varying degrees of economic turnaround this year. Still, the focus at this event is on products, and, as usual, there are plenty to create interest this year. In fact, here are a half dozen items that did just that.

What is it? GROW YOUR OWN organic gardening kits by ecosource Home & Garden. Why should you sell it? This oh-so-clever product line takes advantage of the DIY trend and the “healthy at home” organic gardening movement. The large (11 inches tall) retro-inspired reusable canisters come in 10 varieties and are filled with everything needed to grow delicious, healthy food at home. Where to find it? www.ecosourceonline.com

What is it? The “Flagability” line from Ohio Wholesale. Why should you sell it? Ohio Wholesale has teamed with Kennedy’s Country Collection to craft a new line of very clever flags made from denier polyester, specifically for outdoor use. Several flag poles are available within the product line; however, each flag will fit standard hanging flag poles. Where to find it? www.OhioWholesale.com

What is it? The Luna-Sol LunaLite from Echo Valley. Why should you sell it? Art meets science here, and the marriage caused quite a congregation of prospective buyers at Echo Valley’s showroom. Each Luna-Sol glass lamp is individually hand-blown to ensure uniqueness – but, there’s more! By day, light passes through the lamp and is absorbed by a concealed internal solar panel, which charges a battery contained in the unit’s housing. At night, the battery powers a light integrated into the solar panel that supercharges the tiny luminescent glow crystals. The effect is a brilliant green glow that will last up to eight hours. Where to find it? www.echovalley.com

What is it? The Moss Milkshake from Moss Acres. Why should you sell it? This convenient, smartly-packaged, dry mix of moss fragments, acidifying agents and water-retention gel combines with water to create a “moss starter kit” for practically any shady spot. The environmentally-friendly Moss Milkshake covers up to 20 square feet. Where to find it? www.mossacres.com

What is it? The Magic Mats line from Woods International. Why should you sell it? There’s all manner of “sellable” attached to this item. It’s natural (made of coconut), it’s a virtual necessity (who couldn’t use a doormat – or several?), and it’s a novelty item in the way it lights up when the motion sensor detects someone approaching the front door. Where to find it? www.woodsinternational.com

What is it? The Frog Garden Balancer from Red Carpet Studios. Why should you sell it? This was the “eye catcher” for the company in Atlanta. Its whimsical design and ability to “dance” with the wind make it a great conversation piece. Where to find it? www.rcsgifts.com