IHA’s first live-streamed Global Forum presented three days of informative sessions by experts in Canada, Europe, Asia and Latin America. The series of virtual education programs took place September 22 – 24.  As the housewares industry has learned new ways to conduct business remotely this year, suppliers eager to grow their global business and learn about current market conditions and opportunities in varied regions were able to get up-to-date information while sitting in the comfort of their home offices. Session recordings were also available to registered attendees to view after the conference.

IHA reformatted the annual gathering to a virtual programming event that offered twice-daily sessions, hosted by Lori Szudarek, senior manager, member and international buyer relations. Each day presented a morning session that paired a market review by a major retailer or distributor, followed by country reports from IHA’s global offices and representatives. Afternoon sessions repeated this arrangement. On Wednesday and Thursday afternoons, the schedule also included strategic problem-solving meetings, facilitated by board members of IHA’s International Business Council (IBC). These networking events provided a platform for attendees to discuss topics in a confidential setting.