Keeping up with the Jones’

reflects, in a nutshell, the ever changing preferences of the American consumer.  What is in style today will be out of style tomorrow.  Consumer preferences are not only shaped by market trends, but also by economic factors.  For example, we have seen an increase of eco-friendly products in the marketplace, but because of the economy, people are also seeking lower prices.  In Fair Trade, we have a third factor to consider, which is one of the Fair Trade Principles, and that is valuing and respecting the culture and heritage of the people who make the products.

So you can see, there is a lot of thinking that goes into the design of a product.

SERRV has risen to the challenge this year by holding their first ever Design Camp 2010.  Designers from SERRV partners in Indonesia, Vietnam, and Bangladesh will come to Madison and Chicago for an intensive design experience at Design Camp 2010.  Design Camp 2010 creates a direct, working connection between designers in the U.S and abroad.

“This is an innovative and unique opportunity for our partners to be immersed in
the U.S. market,”

emphasized Serena Sato, director of marketing for SERRV.

“Participants will learn about U.S. trends in home décor and share that knowledge with artisans in their home countries.”

The School of the Art Institute of Chicago is providing free meeting space and several design professors will offer insights on the American market.  Participants will attend product and market trend workshops from October 30th through November 7th.  Designers will be available for interviews between 10/31 and 11/5.

The purpose of Design Camp 2010 is clear.  SERRV hopes that:

“Through this connection and collaboration, SERRV will increase sales of artisans’ products and fulfill our mission of eradicating poverty wherever it resides.”

Further details can be found on SERRV’s website.