Value-driven fashion-forward designs, such as OW's Hunter collection hnt10, remain in demand with rug buyers.

NEW YORK -- Area rug executives heading to the spring 2026 New York Home Fashions Market, March 23-26, remain optimistic and showcase value for big box, mass merchants and e-commerce buyers attending the show.

Surveyed area rug players remain positive despite the uncertain international geopolitical landscape and concerns regarding the domestic economy.

Nonetheless, big box buyers, mass merchants and e-tailers are expected to continue to refresh inventories and plan for their future rug programs.

Says Bob Eddy, chairman and CEO of BJ Wholesale and chairman of the National Retail Federation, during a conference call on March 18, "The key to our business is value. While consumers are currently focused on affordability and low prices, true value is a more complex assessment that combines price, product quality, and convenience.

"We want to deliver the right product, at the right price, at the right time. There will be increased focus on price, but the economy overall is doing pretty well."

That sentiment is echoed by surveyed area rug executives and Andy Brumlow, president, Oriental Weavers US, says, "As we look ahead, the area rug category is poised for steady, deliberate progress in 2026. Residential demand remains consistent, with pockets of opportunity emerging in select commercial segments. While macroeconomic factors, housing activity, and discretionary spending will continue to influence performance, projections point to modest gains across core markets. Consumers are prioritizing well-made, durable products that deliver strong design at a compelling value, approaching purchases with greater intention. Meanwhile, manufacturers are navigating ongoing cost pressures and a competitive pricing landscape with a focus on efficiency and discipline. Overall, 2026 is shaping up to be a year defined by balanced growth, where companies that execute with operational rigor and stay closely aligned to market needs will be best positioned to succeed."


OW's Cavett collection was a hit out of the gate, and adds new softly colored updated traditional styles for retailers.
Shown, cav13

Momeni anticipates a continued appetite for trend-right area rugs and says Reza Momeni, "We expect continued momentum around design-forward collections that balance strong visual impact with practical performance. Our customers are requesting warmth in color, elevated texture, and trend-driven aesthetics, while still prioritizing affordability and long-term durability in terms of style and construction. There’s a clear demand for versatile constructions that work across both residential and high-traffic spaces — rugs that feel directional and refined yet remain accessible and built for real life."


Momeni debuts on point romantic floral designs (Wisteria WIS3CHR)l, crafted of space-dyed polyester, that are soft under
foot, yet durable.

Likewise, Matthew Rouhanian, founder of Dynamic Rugs, tells RugNews.com, "We remain optimistic about the upcoming market, even with the ongoing global challenges affecting the industry. While there is certainly some uncertainty in the broader economic landscape, we are seeing resilience within the rug category and continued interest from our retail partners."


Value and fashion continue to drive Dynamic Rugs' sales, and the new Santana lineup delivers trending looks. Shown, 10260-580

At Surya the expectations also are upbeat. Surya, which created its Livabliss brand in 2024 to target the big box, mass merchant and online retail channel, has been rolling out dozens of new collections at each market, ratcheting up debuts to focus on strong perceived value. As such the label continues to grow its offering of machine-woven rugs that mimic hand-knotted heirlooms -- a genre that remains a favorite with clients. Satya Tiwari, president of Surya Inc., explained, "Today’s buyers are drawn to rugs that feel storied and authentic — pieces that echo the character of antique heirlooms while offering modern durability. Designs with antique-inspired patterns, layered color, and tactile texture ground spaces while adding unique depth and character. Through innovative machine-woven constructions, varied piles and nuanced textures recreate the dimension and character once found only in antique, hand-crafted pieces."


Surya introduces Aston Villa, a lineup of machine-woven traditional designs executed to mimic the look of hand-knotted
rugs. Shown, asv2308-71010

-- Don't miss RugNews.com's market preview: Rug Companies Push Value-Fashion Intros at Spring NY Market