PH brands earn $3.5M at Paris trade show
PH brands earn $3.5M at Paris trade show

Unlocking the Secrets of Successful Trade Shows Lessons from DESIGNPhilippines at Maison&Objet 2026
In today's rapidly evolving global economy, businesses are constantly seeking innovative ways to stay ahead of the curve. One effective strategy is to participate in international trade shows, where they can showcase their products and services to a targeted audience. In this article, we'll explore the challenges faced by Philippine (PH) brands at Maison&Objet 2026 and offer insights on how to overcome them.
A Record-Breaking Performance
The Philippines' recent participation at Maison&Objet 2026 trade show in France has achieved a remarkable $3.5 million in sales, representing a significant 75% increase from the previous year's $2 million. This outstanding performance is a testament to the country's thriving presence in the European market.
Paving the Way for Success
The Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (Citem) played a crucial role in the Philippines' success at Maison&Objet 2026. Under its banner program, DESIGNPhilippines, Citem presented 14 local enterprises from the home decor, furniture, and furnishings sectors, as well as an art gallery, to the international audience.
Curating a Unique Experience
DESIGNPhilippines curated a pavilion that carried the same theme as its previous two editions Artipelago III. This showcase featured the country's archipelagic flair through a variety of design-oriented goods produced by Filipino manufacturers from different regions. The pavilion was designed to provide a holistic experience, allowing visitors to visualize how these products could be used and styled in homes, projects, or spaces.
Products Galore
The products on display ranged from larger indoor and outdoor furniture pieces to artworks, lighting, and smaller decorative items such as planters, vases, rugs, and tableware. This diverse range of offerings showcased the country's capabilities in producing high-quality, innovative home and lifestyle products.
Reaping the Rewards
DESIGNPhilippines received an impressive 844 trade inquiries at the trade show. Some of the notable brands that expressed interest were the Home Collections of global luxury label Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton and Belgian furniture manufacturer and importer Vincent Sheppard.
Lessons Learned
The sustained success of DESIGNPhilippines at Maison&Objet 2026 is a testament to the country's thriving presence in the European market. As Citem executive director Leah Pulido Ocampo noted, It establishes the Philippines' capabilities to be a premier source of excellent, design-oriented goods that can compete with brands and manufacturers from all over the world.
Overcoming Challenges
So, how did PH brands overcome the challenges they faced at Maison&Objet 2026? Here are some key takeaways
Embrace Innovation By showcasing innovative products and designs, PH brands demonstrated their ability to adapt to changing market trends.
Curate a Unique Experience DESIGNPhilippines' pavilion provided a holistic experience for visitors, allowing them to visualize how the products could be used in various settings.
Develop Strong Relationships Building connections with potential buyers and partners is crucial for success in international trade shows.
Conclusion*
The Philippines' impressive performance at Maison&Objet 2026 serves as a reminder of the importance of innovative design, unique experiences, and strong relationships in overcoming the challenges faced by PH brands. By embracing these strategies, businesses can unlock new opportunities for growth and expansion in the global market.
In today's fast-paced international trade show landscape, it's essential to remember that success is not just about showcasing products but also about building meaningful connections with potential buyers and partners.