COVER Connect New York 2023

Join us as we welcome the rug industry’s leading figures at COVER Connect New York 2023, September 9–11. Following the success of the first two years, the third edition of the show is expanding to two venues: The Metropolitan Pavilion and The Altman Building.

The Showroom

We look forward to meeting you at Stand A15 in our lounge designed by STEP Partners Man of Parts and Avenue Roads.

And don’t miss the booths of all of our STEP Certified Partners participating at COVER Connect New York 2023:

Battilossi | M11
Creative Matters | M23
Jan Kath Design | A08
Kirkit Rugs | M21
Knots Rugs | M19
Paulig | A07
Sahar | A06
Samad Rugs | M20
Tamarian | M17
Wool & Silk | M16
Zollanvari | M05

COVER Round Table Discussions

This year, STEP will be co-hosting the COVER Round Table Discussions, where COVER Editor Lucy Upward, STEP Director Reto Aschwanden, and industry panelists will discuss key topics relating to the handmade rug industry.

Sustainability Goals: The Rug Industry Working Together 
Collaborating for an eco-friendly rug industry     
September 9 | 3pm 

In many regards the handmade rug industry is well positioned to respond to the demand for eco-friendly, sustainable products. Made using natural fibres, longevity is a key aspect of handmade rugs’ quality and design. However, there can be environmental harm connected to their production. Often, wastewater remains untreated; plastics are used for packaging; and long distances separate production sites and consumer markets, meaning transportation is commonly by air. This Round Table Discussion will present current approaches by Label STEP and industry stakeholders to minimise their environmental impact, discuss new ideas and identify areas of potential collaboration to create a greener rug industry. 

Worldwide Weaving Regions: Highlights and Issues
Global developments and country-specific situations
September 10 | 3pm

Rugs are still handwoven and knotted in many countries and regions, leaving traders and consumers with a rich, diverse and attractive palette of choices.  This Round Table Discussion provides a whirlwind world tour through the main handmade rug weaving regions—from Marrakech to Mazar, Kabul to Kathmandu, Hindu Kush to the Himalayas—visiting Anatolia, Punjab, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh on the way. Global trends and challenges will be presented, as well as country specific opportunities and issues. Participants are invited to share their experiences and insights, ask questions of industry insiders and discuss possible joint efforts to promote shared interests.  

COVER Connect New York Party

Join us at the opening party, co-hosted by STEP and COVER Magazine!

Manhattan Hotel Terrace
Sunday, September 10 
7–9pm  

Socialise with fellow visitors and exhibitors in Downtown Manhattan. COVER Connect New York visitors are warmly invited by the COVER team and Label STEP for drinks and canapés in a private bar with an open-air terrace.
Please RSVP for the party via the registration form.

We look forward to meeting you at the show. Please feel free to reach out directly if you’d like to set up a meeting.

Get Involved

Learn more about our Certified Label
STEP Fair Trade Partners.

Support weavers by becoming a Partner in the fair trade of handmade carpets.