TORONTO – ITALIA FOR CONTRACT is launching a two-day exhibition and conference this May 17-19, 2016, at the Cooperage Space, Thompson Landry Gallery in Toronto’s Distillery Historic District.

In partnership with IIDEXCanada, and with the support of the Udine Chamber of Commerce, ITALIA FOR CONTRACT will introduce a curated group of new and innovative Italian contract furniture companies to the Canadian market. Building upon the success of its launch in South Africa and Azerbaijan, as well as the recent launch of new products in Milan, the two-day event kicks off with an opening night party on May 17th, and offers Canadian designers and specifiers the opportunity to meet with and learn about product offerings from the following companies: Crassevig, seating; Fantoni, office furniture, pre-finished flooring and acoustic panels; Frag, leather furniture; Kenius, concrete; Molaro, windows and doors; and Moroso, furniture and accessories.

“Toronto is the third largest market in North America, and Canada’s one of the best countries in the world for business, so we see it as a huge growth market for Italian manufacturing,” said Carlo Piemonte, Director for ITALIA FOR CONTRACT. “We’re very excited to introduce new products to the Canadian market in an event that includes parties, exhibits and education.” In addition to visiting the exhibits, attendees can attend two free, CEU seminars. Why Innovation Ecosystems are Important in the Global Economy [link] examines why innovation ecosystems remain a fundamental asset for the competitiveness of firms and industries of advanced economies. This seminar takes place May 18 from 6 – 7 p.m. Smelling Colours – International Scent Design [link], on May 19 from 9 – 10 a.m., explores the principles of scent design and how it impacts the way people connect with a space.

“The new connections designers make through these networking and sourcing opportunities are key to their continued success,” said Tracy Bowie, IIDEXCanada VP. “IIDEXCanada is proud to continue its tradition of facilitating these introductions especially with such amazing products from Italy.”