New Jersey based United Auction has been doing the Off Price Show since its inaugural event at the Debbie Reynolds Hotel in 1995.  They have several divisions: Auction administration for trade shows (including Off Price); liquidation for major chain store and catalog company clients; and their core division that does closeouts from various sources including bankruptcy, insurance salvage and general wholesale liquidations.

 

United Auction carries ALL consumer categories of general merchandise.  They have exclusive contract relationships with some of the most prominent retailers and mail order houses in America.

 

“From time-to-time we seem to be handling every product line there is,” said Larry Manus, who runs United Auction with brother Ken.

 

Since the very first Off Price Show, the Manuses have had great success with their hard lines.  Their unique values on a wide range of home products have been a significant attraction for the show’s savvy entrepreneur and retailers looking to set themselves apart.

 

“We’ve been advocating for years that to survive and succeed in a challenging economy is to diversify.  Many of the apparel retailers that are doing well today have taken this course of action and find themselves purchasing and selling those particular products which they did not carry several years ago.”

 

Here is what Larry has to say about Home & Gift at the Off Price Show:

 

“Home décor is always a strong category with us.  Lighting is very consistent, and so is furniture.  The variety of these different products extends the customer base and the opportunity for higher retail sales per customer.

 

“In August, assorted products have done well.  We’ve noticed that many of our buyers would prefer huge assortments over individual products in deep quantities.  When they choose a particular category, like bathroom or kitchen, they still want a wide variety in order to offer an attractive selection to their clientele.  Thus, the timing for a home & gift expansion at the Off Price Show is excellent.”