Amadi
Celebrating a milestone 10-year anniversary in September 2014, the annual Fall trade fair New York International Rug Show has maintained its reputation as a go-to event for rug industry buyers and sellers.
News about the 2015 show is already emerging, with the founder, owner and well-respected rug aficionado Dennis Dodds, retiring and handing ownership of the NYICS brand to Murtaza Ahmadi. As a member of the Ahmadi family who run the California-based rug firm Amadi Carpets, Murtaza is a well-known face within the rug market, with 15 years of experience in logistics, development and organizing trade shows.
Murtaza Ahmadi explains: “I first met Dennis in 2004 and over the years our paths have crossed at numerous rug events. I immediately saw the potential of NYICS, which began with 10 vendors at the inaugural show, including Zollanvari, Woven Legends, Rugs by Robinson, Lapchi and Amadi. During the last decade of showing at NYICS I shared my experience with Dennis to help implement new strategies and discuss concerns from both vendors and retailers about the upcoming shows. In the last few years we discussed the future of this show and what direction it will be sailing.”
Over the last five decades Dennis Dodds has built up a vast knowledge of antique rugs as well as an impressive collection of antiques. He is one of the most respected collectors internationally, sitting on the board of the ICOC. Dodds can be credited with organizing a show where some of the most creative and cutting-edge carpet makers from around the world have a platform to exhibit their amazing designs and craftsmanship under one roof. His desire to retire and spend more time with his family has led to much thought about how the fair can be passed on to someone who shares the same commitment and ideals within the industry. Discussions between himself and Murtazi convinced Dodds of his younger colleague’s suitability and desire to see the show succeed in the future.
Murtaza Ahmadi adds: “With Dennis’ confidence in my abilities I was honoured to continue his wonderful legacy. I will bring my experience of retail, wholesale and importing to the 2015 NYICS and to future exhibitions. The focus will be not only on the attending retailers but the vendors making up the show and designer clientele. I aim to provide an eclectic and diverse set of vendors for the retailers to visit and to bridge the gap between designer/architect firms and the carpet industry. One of the core aims of NYICS will be to educate the design community and general public about the rug industry. A greater understanding of the market can help strengthen it.”
