NeoCon Wrap Up 2021
NeoCon Wrap Up 2021
NeoCon Wrap Up 2021
It was SO good to be back in Chicago after a long two years away. NeoCon is our biggest show of the year and we have been missing the energy in The Merchandise Mart dearly. The show started way back in 1969 and serves as the launch pad for innovation in commercial design featuring cutting-edge products and furniture trends. In its impressive 52-year history it has cemented itself as the most important event of the year for the industry. We are proud to be a part of the NeoCon family for over 30 years.
With all necessary safety precautions and Covid protocols in place we must be honest, we weren’t quite sure what to expect. It may have been different than what we’re used to, but it didn’t make it any less enjoyable.
If you were in attendance this year, you probably saw us in our usual spot on the 7th floor. We’re hard to miss at a little over 2,800 square feet. This year, we split our booth in two – Mockett: Home in booth 7-9030 and Mockett: Office right next door in 7-9046. This allowed us to show off some components that fit better into the individual industries while still showcasing how they work harmoniously in both segments.
Something that we took note of in 2019 is how the worlds of residential, commercial, hospitality, and healthcare design were intersecting. This was, predictably, even more evident this year. Looking to the future, the lines will continue to blur as we can expect to see more Resimercial Design styles take shape. One major component of this is the inclusion of integrated power in thoughtful, inventive ways. Having access to charging and connectivity directly at the end-user’s fingertips is almost expected at this point. Including power options that not only make the design more functional, but actually add to the overall design aesthetic is equally as important.
Per usual, our unique power solutions were a big hit on the 7th floor. Stand out hits this year included our new PCS120 Shadow Electric Pop-Up and WCS10 Hidden Wireless Charger. We also spotted a good deal of our Under Desk and Edge-Mount Power Grommets in some of the other beautiful displays throughout the floors of The Mart. These styles are always a great solution for areas where shared access to power is needed.
Of course, the other details of the design are equally important. Our expansive Table Leg collection was a big crowd favorite this year. We have been putting a lot of focus into growing the line and bringing in new designs and finishes and it looks like our hard work paid off.
Somewhat to our surprise, there was a lot of chatter about our Round Plastic Grommets this year as well. Given that our company was built on the shoulders of the Grommet, this made us very happy. Sometimes, it’s the simplest designs that stand the test of time.
All things considered; the show was a great success for us. Even with attendance at 50%, there was never a dull moment. We were able to have more in-depth conversations with visitors that can sometimes be difficult to accomplish at the busier shows. We heard some great suggestions and requests that we’re taking to the drawing board back in California. It was so great to back in person with all our friends in commercial design. We love our NeoCon family sincerely and we can’t wait to be back in June to do it all over again!
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Doug Mockett gives a tour of our Tradeshow Display