Gifts Today Month: August/September 2021 Issue: 7 Volume: 32
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DISCOVER THE ENTIRE RANGE OF
PERSONALISED GIFTS
Gifts Today Aug/Sep2021
Contents
p 24
Regulars 7 8 12 16
Message from the editor News Licensing News Exhibition News
Cover story 24 Yankee Candle A countdown to Christmas with a joyful fragrance offering that celebrates all the landmark occasions that bring about seasonal cheer
p 26
Retail 60 Fleming’s Department store Founded back in 1949, Fleming’s Department Store in Monaghan, Ireland, is a third generation independent family run business that boasts a successful gift department. We catch up with MD Rob Fleming to learn more
76 Trade Talk The return of Autumn Fair, retailer confidence and unexpected hits – it’s all up for discussion this month
Gifts Today team Editor
p 24
82 Retailers’ Panel
Sally Norton sally@lemapublishing.co.uk
Advertisement Manager
p62
Mark Horsnell markh@lemapublishing.co.uk
The latest members of our Panel – key gift shop owners – introduce their businesses and tell us what makes them so special. This month both shops are called The Gift Box – one in Derry and the other near Chester
Autumn Fair 2021
Layout/Design
Rick Vickers rick@lemapublishing.co.uk
26 With Autumn Fair set to open its doors again from 5-8 September at Birmingham’s NEC, we caught up with Event Director Jessica Dawnay to learn what the show will have in store for retailers 28 Show Preview
Managing Director
Mark Naish mark@lemapublishing.co.uk
Production Director
Paul Naish paul@lemapublishing.co.uk
We catch up with some key exhibitors to learn what they’ll be unveiling at the show
Chairman
Malcolm Naish malcolm@lemapublishing.co.uk
Special Features 64 At Home
p 60
Wonderful ways you can help your customers boost their living spaces and make them more comfortable than ever
78 InStyle Jewellery and fashion accessory trends, products and must-buys in this exciting sector
Lema Publishing Ltd
1 Churchgates, The Wilderness, Berkhamsted, Herts, HP4 2UB Telephone: 01442 289930
www.giftstoday.media
p 30
p 78
84 London Stationery Show We catch up with event director Alex Butler to discover what’s in store for the October show
88 New products
Opinion 14 The Giftware Association 22 Bira
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32
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p 64
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Message from the Editor www.giftstoday.media Instagram: @giftstodaymedia
A
t Gifts Today, mid-August is a time a joyful fragrance offering that celebrates all the to take a quick breath as we wait for landmark occasions that bring about seasonal show season to start. This year, more cheer. Read more about this fabulous collection on than ever, after 18 months of uncertainty and page 24. upheaval, our industry seems keener than ever Our retail interview is Fleming’s Department to meet in person at trade shows, see products in store, Monaghan, Ireland. Founded back in 1949, the flesh and plan for the future. Fleming’s is a third generation independent Harrogate Home & Gift kicked things off family run business that boasts a successful gift brilliantly in July, as part of a limited number of department. We catch up with MD Rob Fleming to pilot events in the third phase of the Government learn how they weathered the Covid storm, sourced Events Research Programme. The sun shone, new products without trade shows and launched a everyone was in great spirits and some serious new ecommerce site. Turn to page 60. business was done. As James Mace, Marketing We also have our growing At Home offering on Director from the Art File said: ‘It’s been a fantastic page 64, our popular InStyle feature on 78, and show; it’s been a record-breaking show. We’ve done New Products on 88. There’s also all the news, Home & Gift for 18 years now and it was our best views and opinion you can expect from us at Gifts ever show. I literally can’t Today. think of any negatives.’ I should also let Our industry seems And now, in this issue, we you know that, after keener than ever to meet five happy years look ahead to Autumn Fair, running live at Birmingham’s editor of Gifts in person at trade shows, as NEC from 5-8 September. Today, I’m leaving see products in the flesh We catch up with event for pastures new director Jessica Dawnay on and handing this and plan for the future page 26 to discover why the fantastic title into the team at Hyve believe live shows are such a crucial capable hands of Rachel King, who has been editor part of our industry, and how they have planned of our sister title Greetings Today for the past few to make the show as safe and secure as possible. years. As Rachel says: ‘I’m excited to be joining the As Jessica says: ‘After the initial appeal of online Gifts Today team. I know some people through my meetings faded, the reality hit home that nothing dealings with Greetings Today but I look forward quite beats the excitement and anticipation of to getting to know the gifts industry much better entering a show bursting with new innovations and over time. It’s going to be a very busy few months inspiring products, and of walking up to a stand as 2021 winds down, and I can’t wait to see what and seeing, touching, and experiencing products in fabulous new things are ready to hit shelves in your hands.’ Our bumper show preview starts on 2022. If you spot me at a trade fair, please do page 28. say hello.’You can contact Rachel on: rachel@ Of course there are other shows to look forward lemapublishing.co.uk. to. Top Drawer A/W opens at London’s Olympia There’s also the great news that Mark Horsnell from 12-14 September, and the London Stationery is now Publisher of Gifts Today, and is set to guide Show runs 5-6 October at the Business Design the title to even greater heights. His email remains Centre after two and a half years away. We have the same: markh@lemapublishing.co.uk. previews on pages 16 and 84 respectively. I wish you all the very best with the Yankee Candle are our cover stars this month, coming buying season, and I hope our paths encouraging us to look ahead to Christmas with cross in future.
The views of the contributors expressed in this journal are not necessarily those of the publisher. Comments, letters and criticism are welcome.
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p 82
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News
New face at Enesco Joanna Castle has joined the Enesco UK sales team as Area Sales Manager, a role that will involve the management of trade accounts in Southwest England and South Wales. Joanna’s most recent sales role was as Area Sales Account Manager for a well-known jewellery and ladies accessories brand.
Rex London turns 40 August 2021 sees Rex London celebrate its 40th anniversary. With humble beginnings on a market stall in Portobello Road in 1981, the giftware company has since gone on to become a hugely successful, international online retailer and wholesaler, creating Gifts of Random Kindness at affordable prices. They began with items that they had simply stumbled upon on their travels around the world. Before long they were on the shelves of high street institutions like Habitat and The Body Shop. For the next two decades, they continued to discover and deliver these Gifts of Random Kindness, until they decided it was time not only to choose products they liked but also to design them. From floral patterns to adorable animals, they have loved creating colourful and playful prints that stand out and bring joy.
rexlondon.com
BRC warns of high Sustainability street labour shortages award for Vent The British Retail Consortium warned of high street labour shortages as 20 per cent of shop workers across the UK in the retail and hospitality sectors entered isolation due to Covid19 in July. Both sectors said one in five workers had been called to isolate, exacerbating the issue of labour shortages due to Brexit and other factors. BRC chief executive Helen Dickinson told MPs on the Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy Committee: ‘We are seeing some vacancy rates of around 20 per cent, and only some of that is directly people with Covid – a lot is the indirect consequence of having to isolate, irrespective of tests or whether one has had two vaccines.’ Figures show that the number of contact alerts issued by the government’s Test and Trace app rose dramatically since hospitality and leisure businesses began the process of reopening in April, with over 200,000 alerts sent during a single week in June.
Vent for Change, the sustainable stationery company that protects the planet and supports children's education, has been awarded Best Sustainable Stationery Company 2021 in The Business Elite Awards 2021. The award recognises those enterprises that consistently provide the best services and products for their clients, allowing them to stand out within their field. Rewarding those companies that are succeeding in their endeavours, innovating, growing and improving. ‘We are delighted to be recognised for the hard work the team have put in over the last 12 months, to be singled out for what we stand for behind the scenes is truly wonderful,’ says Vent founder Evan Lewis. Vent combine beautiful design with impeccable ecocredentials as well as supporting children's education projects with every item sold.
New CEO for Ryman The heritage stationery and office supplies brand has announced Peter Birks as its new CEO. Peter has held leadership roles in retailers Office Depot, Staples and recently as CEO for Tuffnells. Peter joins Ryman to further grow the brand in key markets and channels, deliver industry leading customer service levels, create a compelling place to work for colleagues and use technology to drive the business further. Theo Paphitis, Chairman and owner of Ryman, says: ‘Peter brings a huge amount of energy, leadership skills and industry intel to Ryman and has a proven track record and digital focus. We are excited to welcome him on board and know he’ll make a big difference in further growing the brand and inspiring the team, from day one.’ 8 Gifts Today
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News A Gift From The Gods opens pop-up Lifestyle and fashion accessories company, A Gift From The Gods, returns to bricks and mortar retail with a unit in The Broadway Shopping Centre, Bexleyheath, South East London. The brand has opened a 12-month pop-up, taking advantage of the discounted business rates. Founder Jane Reucroft comments: ‘The landlord and shopping centre management team went the extra mile to get us in and up and running’. Opened with a soft launch on 1 July, the addition of a café area in August will saw the implementation of a full marketing campaign.
BHETA success on plastic tax Following the British Home Enhancement Trade Association’s approach to Government outlining its objections to the draft Plastic Packaging tax legislation, HMRC has made a U-turn on the latest draft secondary legislation. HMRC’s original position was to extend the legislation’s scope to include multi-use consumer goods such as home and garden storage boxes and packed lunch boxes as well as packaging. This will not now be the case. HMRC’s project leader, Mark Palmer has messaged BHETA thanking it for its input and clarifying the following: ‘HMRC has now published draft secondary legislation clarifying the scope of the tax. Storage boxes for home use and reusable food and drinks containers do not need to be included in these regulations. ‘The draft legislation clarifies that a further number of products are outside of the scope, and examples of these include items sold for long term storage of goods throughout their lifetime, such as toolboxes, items where the packaging is integral to the use of the goods, such as water filter cartridges, and items for reuse in the presentation of goods, such as shop fittings.’ Prior to BHETA’s intervention, the previous draft of the legislation could have precipitated costs of an additional £10million per year in tax across the supplier base.
The Insights Family moves to new office The market intelligence company has moved to kids, parents, and family market intelligence, has moved to larger offices on King Street in Manchester city centre and opens a satellite office in Mayfair, London. The company also welcomes three new starters to the business and announces the launch of Kids Insights and Parents Insights in Poland. The company is rapidly expanding following a number of exciting client wins, including media giant HBO Max, iconic retailer HMV, and leading media agency GroupM. Jennifer Knott joins the company as Senior Research Manager after six years working for Manchester City Football Club in a variety of research and digital media analyst roles. The team also welcomes Tushar Palawat and Emer Sheffield to the rapidly expanding development and data science team as a Junior Data Scientist and as a UI/ UX Designer, respectively.
Squire’s Garden Centres turn 85 Squire’s Garden Centres are celebrating their 85th Anniversary this year. To mark the occasion, their garden centres across Surrey, Sussex, Berkshire and Middlesex each designed an eye-catching display to celebrate this special anniversary. Chairman Sarah Squire judged all the displays, then selected a winner and two runners up. The overall winner was Squire’s in Crawley, and the runners up were Squire’s in Badshot Lea and Chertsey. Sarah Squire said: ‘I would like to congratulate all our centres for their very creative and inspiring plant displays to celebrate our 85th Anniversary. I loved the thought and teamwork that had gone into creating each display, and I hope that our customers will enjoy seeing the anniversary gardens at their local Squire’s.’
Industry speaker lineup at SFFF show Key food and drink buyers from businesses including Fortnum & Mason, Selfridges, Macknade, Harrods and more are set to take to the stage at the Speciality & Fine Food Fair 2021 covering topics including conscious consumerism, effective marketing, and deep dives into trends such as plant-based foods and sustainable business practices. This year’s event, which takes place at Olympia London on 6-7 September 2021, is the first major post-lockdown trade event for the fine food and drink sector, and will be showcasing over 350 exciting producers. 10 Gifts Today
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Licensing News
Puckator x Pusheen
giftware range
Puckator has partnered with Pusheen the Cat, the social media star, to launch a new giftware range including beauty accessories, drinkware, bags, digital watches, reusable insulated snack pots and a bento box. All the products feature Pusheen in various poses and costumes, including the super popular Pusheenicorn.
Fizz Creations goes super Sonic In the year the loved character turns 30, Fizz have introduced Sonic the Hedgehog to their collection of licensed gifts and lighting. The new line up from Fizz features mug gift sets, puzzles, stress squeezers and a small range of lighting products. The collection launches this autumn, and is aimed at gaming fans everywhere.
RHS is in fashion The Royal Horticultural Society has announced a partnership with British fashion brand Oasis for an exclusive limited-edition 27-piece collection of contemporary women’s apparel celebrating the joys of nature and horticulture. Using imagery from the RHS Lindley Collections, the world’s finest collection of botanical art, the Oasis design team worked closely with the RHS to carefully select and adapt a handful of the most striking drawings. The team then re-sketched the chosen images by hand, incorporating these prints into a new collection that is full of romance and timeless appeal. The 27-piece collection includes 11 enchanting prints in all.
12 Gifts Today
The Character Parade’s back! The countdown to Brand Licensing Europe 2021 has begun and the much-loved character parade, showcasing the world’s biggest mascots and entertainment brands, will be back, too. BLE is launching a #paradeyourself campaign on social media during the run up to the event and is inviting the industry to share selfies taken with the characters over the years. There will be a prize for the best selfie, with the winner being offered the opportunity to be photographed at the front of the parade at BLE 2021. Posts must include #paradeyourself #BLE2021 @bleurope. BLE will run at ExCel London.
Wildbrain expands Peanuts programme Brokered on behalf of Peanuts Worldwide, the latest collection of deals sees ranges launching across fashion, accessories, homewares and gifts for both children and adults. For the UK, new spring/summer apparel collections have launched from existing partners, including the baby and kidswear brand Cribstar and the adult fashion brand Vintage Supply. In addition, childrenswear brand Lil’ Cubs, as well as candle company Flamingo Candles, have both debuted their first Peanuts ranges.
Anderson Entertainment silkscreen prints Anderson Entertainment, the company founded by Gerry Anderson – the man behind such iconic shows as Thunderbirds and Space: 1999 as well as modern hits like Space Precinct and the 2005 reimagining of Captain Scarlet – has launched a series of special limited-edition silkscreen prints by print maker John Patrick Reynolds, inspired by its iconic properties. Featuring characters, craft and scenes from Thunderbirds and Captain Scarlet, the imagery will be drawn from the wildly popular Anderson comics that appeared in the 1960s and 1970s. The launch of these silkscreen prints comes hard on the heels of a new agreement with rights holder ITV Studios that allows Anderson Entertainment to expand its ranges of product derived from its classic brands. This agreement will enable a wide range of new and innovative products inspired by the best-loved Gerry Anderson creations.
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GT CONTRIBUTOR: The Giftware Association
‘Gift of the Year 2022 is open!’ Chris Workman, PR and marketing manager for The GA, looks ahead to the 44th edition of these annual awards, and explains how it can help reach key buyers and retailers
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Chris Workman
‘
This year is all about seeing those gifts in real life and meeting the people behind the brands
‘
14 Gifts Today
he largest competition in the gift and home industry opened at Harrogate Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival on 18 July. The Giftware Association is very excited to see what amazing products and designs will be entered this year and what the creative industries have been hard at work on during the last year. This year is all about seeing those gifts in real life and meeting the people behind the brands. We will also be celebrating the winners from the previous year since it was a fully digital competition. We have also made a few tweaks to the back end of our website to make the user journey even smoother and for your products to be seen in their best light. We are also excited to get out and about at trade shows again and look forward to meeting as many entrants as possible. If you are new to the competition, Gift of the Year celebrates the best products in the home and gift industry and aims to elevate your brand and products to the audience that matters the most – the buyers and retailers. ‘Recognition via the awards has increased sales within our existing specialist marketplace and opened up sales in entirely new target markets, said the team at Hot Smoked. ‘Entering Gift of the Year
creates a buzz around a product and the awards are seen as an industry highlight which helps a business like ours with publicity and marketing,’ said the team at Cheatwell Games. This year’s competition will see the same 20 categories as last year and we will also welcome back the People’s Choice awards where the judging was opened up to the end consumers and general public, giving your products even more exposure to a buying audience. This year we will allow entry to the People’s Choice Award for all shortlisted companies.
Hot off the heels of the winners’ brochure being released a couple of weeks ago, the online brochure features the winners and highly commended products from last year’s competition, as well as shortlisted companies for the first time ever to enable extra exposure. Look out for The Giftware Association team at coming shows or, if you would like more information, view last year’s winners or to enter then please visit the awards website, or email me on: chris.workman@ga-uk.org.
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News
Exhibition
Top Drawer
returns
Bringing its unique curation of design-led interior, lifestyle and gifting products back to a live format, Top Drawer A/W will return to Olympia London from 12-14 September 2021 A show that is known for being as ‘We’re much about the exchange of ideas, counting down inspiration and experiences as it is the moments about buying and selling, Top Drawer A/W promises to reconnect the industry until the muchand provide a much-needed buying anticipated opportunity for the new season and return of a live all-important Christmas period. Clarion Retail Show Director, Russell Top Drawer Rule, said: ‘We’re counting down the and are so moments until the much-anticipated thrilled to return of a live Top Drawer and are so thrilled to be providing our retail be providing community with this important our retail opportunity to buy, sell, learn, be community inspired and connect. ‘Passion for design is at the core of with this our DNA and shared by everyone who important is part of the Top Drawer community— opportunity to from retailers, exhibitors and buy, sell, learn, designers to our curators, speakers and organising team. Nothing beats be inspired and walking the aisles of the show and connect’ seeing the creativity and talent that Show Director, abounds in this industry; we know Russell Rule how important touch, feel and in-
16 Gifts Today
person connection is for our network and we look forward to creating an inspiring setting for our network to do great business together. ‘The team that presents you Top Drawer is the same team that brought sister show, Home & Gift, to life in July – the very first retail exhibition to take place following the pandemic. The event was run safely and successfully, exceeding everyone’s expectations – and we can’t wait to bring the same opportunities back to London.’ Showcasing new designs from over 400 brands across interiors, gift, fashion, children’s, craft, food & drink, and greetings and stationery – confirmed exhibitors include both established brands and exciting new names such as: 1973, Aery, Also Home, ARTHOUSE Unlimited, Beyond Living, By Eloise, Caroline Gardner, CHALK, Clockwork Soldier, CRWST, Designed in Colour, East End Prints, Forma House, Herboo, House of Disaster, House of Flavours, Hyggen
Agency, Kikkerland, Lisa Angel, Lethally Her, Lorna Syson, Mother, My Doris, Ohh Deer, Plantophile, Pluto Produkter, Roka London, S-C Brands, SEVIN London, Spice Kitchen, Stock Stationery, Swole Panda, T2, Teddo Play, The Bottled Baking Co., The Candle Brand, The Creative Ox, The Workbench and many more. The past two years have left more retail professionals, business owners and designers wearing more hats than ever before, Top Drawer A/W also promises one of its most stellar content line-ups to date; giving visitors access to the expertise and insight from some of the industry’s leading names including Liberty’s Bryony Sheridan, Holly & Co’s Holly Tucker, and Net-A-Porter’s Evie Collins to name but a few. Attendees will also have the opportunity to explore trends presented by Clarion Retail’s brand new marketplace, REVEAL. Registration for Top Drawer A/W is now open. topdrawer.co.uk
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News
Exhibition
Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival 2021 was a hit
The show, that ran 18-21 July across the Harrogate Convention Centre (HCC) and grounds of the DoubleTree by Hilton Harrogate, has been hailed a huge success Organisers Clarion Events thanked the Harrogate Convention Centre for its support, as the show, colocated with Manchester Furniture Show, was the first major event to run at the venue. Visitor numbers were strong and the quality of buyer was outstanding, tracking in line with previous editions. The visitor sentiment at the event was really positive with retailers really enjoying meeting suppliers and doing face-to-face business. ‘The event is a real treat to attend during the year,’ said Neil Hunt, owner of Nordicana Homewares. ‘A buzzing atmosphere, wonderful setting
and amazing companies brought together to make a really inspiring showcase.’ Alice Brooke, Buyer from National Gallery Company commented: ‘Brilliant trade show with new suppliers I’d never seen before. A fabulous atmosphere.’ The event was selected to be part of a limited number of pilot events in the third phase of the Government Events Research Programme with the support of the both the venue, local authorities, and the Department of Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, and public health bodies. There were no restrictions on visitor numbers, or social distancing requirements, meaning that the gift
industry’s favourite summer show was able to go ahead as normal after 18 months. The show continues to attract key UK buyers from independent, group and online retail stores, as well as contract and interior design buyers. Exhibitors have reported positive reactions and business, with buyers keen to stock up on new products and ranges. James Mace, Marketing Director from the Art File said: ‘It’s been a fantastic show; it’s been a record-breaking show. We’ve done Home & Gift for 18 years now and it was our best ever show. I literally can’t think of any negatives.’ Show Director Russell Rule said: ‘With the backing of the government and local authorities, we knew that we would be able to run the show and it is only with the support of our stakeholders that we were able to do so,
‘We’ve done Home & Gift for 18 years now and it was our best ever show’
safely and successfully. ‘Home & Gift 2021 has been a resounding success. We would like to thank all our visitors and exhibitors for their support in helping us run this fantastic show. Plans are already in motion for next year’s edition of Home & Gift and we can’t wait to see you all again next year.’
Home & Gift 2022.... ...will take place 17-20 July, across the Harrogate Convention Centre and grounds of the DoubleTree by Hilton Harrogate. More information about the show can be found at: homeandgift.co.uk. 14 Gifts Today
LONDON STATIONERY SHOW 5-6 October 2021 Business Design Centre
Register now Discover the largest selection of writing and paper products from around the world in one place. Register now at stationeryshow.co.uk
News Exhibition Exhibition
First diary date
for 2022
Harrogate Christmas & Gift looks forward to being one of the very first trade shows of 2022 – taking place 16-19 January at the Harrogate Convention Centre - providing retailers and suppliers of festive and gift-related products the opportunity to get next year’s business off to a bumper start Simon Anslow, show organiser, explains: ‘Christmas and gift-related products are quite different from other areas of retail in that you really need to see, feel and (quite often smell) products to know whether they are right for your own retail offering. Also, there are so many new and innovative ranges being introduced every year – particularly by some of the larger exhibitors at the show which source products from all over the world and
20 Gifts Today
‘The 2022 show will provide fresh ideas and inspiration for Christmas 2022’
have collections equating to literally thousands – you really need to see everything firsthand to appreciate them.’ Booking for the 2022 show has re-opened and already confirmed are: Festive Decorations, Puleo Asia, Gisela Graham, Snowtime, Playwrite, Premier Decorations, Riffelmacher, Sage Décor, Sincere and Weiste (to name just a few). Simon adds: ‘We have also received numerous enquiries from new exhibitors interested in joining the show for the first time and we are excited to an array of exciting new products and gift ranges to visitors attending.’ Those visiting Harrogate Christmas & Gift for the first time, and not familiar with the show, will be pleasantly surprised by the large and diverse range of products on offer. Whilst it has historically been focussed on Christmas and festive products, in recent years, the ranges include gift items for every occasion including floral and decorative products for weddings, christenings, Halloween items,
food and drink and items for the home and garden. Simon continues: ‘Christmas celebrations have grown exponentially in the UK over the last few decades and the type of buyer seeking festive products has expanded to many new and unexpected areas. Our visitors come from not only department stores and independent retail outlets; but also from church and cathedral shops; tourist attractions and theme parks; party and wedding venues; hotels and hospitality and our largest growing area – garden centres. ‘These are now pretty much one-stop-shops and family destinations selling everything from home and garden-ware, toys, gifts, books, cards, food and drink – in fact you name it, and most garden centres sell it. Therefore, the exhibitors attending have expanded to offer products for every
imaginable occasion.’ The show has always been held in January, straight after Christmas while fashions and trends are still fresh in the mind, and new ideas and opportunities are very apparent. The 2022 show will provide fresh ideas and inspiration for Christmas 2022 – and of course many exciting new developments to keep their retail offerings exciting and tempting for customers throughout the year.
Call: 01902 882280 Email: simon@harrogatefair.com Visit: harrogatefair.com
Gentlemen’s Hardware is the go-to partner for men's gifting to customers worldwide. We craft superior, durable and functional products for life’s adventures. Designed for stylish city-dwellers and avid adventure seekers, our collection includes multi-tools, grooming accessories, outdoor goods, tech essentials, candles and games for home.
Gentlemen's Hardware is now part of the Designworks Collective brand portfolio and we look forward to sharing with you this exciting next chapter, starting with our new Autumn/Winter 2021 collection. Scan the QR code to be transported to our B2B website where you can download the full catalogue and order online or contact our UK Sales Office for more information. +44 (0)1225 9312322 | SALES.UK@DW-COLLECTIVE.COM WWW.DESIGNWORKSCOLLECTIVE.CO.UK Gifts Today July 2021_GH 1
06/08/2021 08:24:09
GT CONTRIBUTOR BIRA
Picture credit Pixabay.com
Money, money, money CEO Andrew Goodacre from the British Independent Retailers Association discusses how to meet the ever-changing needs of independent retailers
CEO Andrew Goodacre
22 Gifts Today
in grants to 3141 businesses in the retail, hospitality and leisure sectors under the scheme up to the end of May. It came from a £25.1 million pot given to
‘
By my calculations that leaves £800 million to be distributed to fragile businesses when they needed it most, and I cannot express enough Bira’s disappointment in this
£800 million to be distributed to fragile businesses when they needed it most, and I cannot express enough Bira’s disappointment in this. If that cash cannot be speedily distributed, then it needs reallocating to those who will need it next. From 16 August only the double-vaccinated are exempt from self-isolation rules meaning that many staff who work in retail will still be absent from work if Covid cases strike. For some small businesses, relying on young, part-time workers, that can be debilitating – often meaning a temporary closure of premises. When this happens, these businesses will need a ready fund to keep them afloat – or risk further high street traders going to the wall. And so, if there is money left over from the Restart Grant fund, Bira is recommending it’s made available to these retailers. It certainly would be a start.
‘
L
et’s ‘start’ at the beginning. When I say ‘beginning’ I am referring to the March Budget, when Rishi Sunak announced that hard-hit businesses would be eligible for a Restart Grant. A pot of cash - up to £6000 in some cases – for retail businesses in England preparing to reopen on 12 April. And while some retailers were only set to receive £2,700, it was still something to get things started after months and months of closed shutters. Except, despite the Government handing out around £3.4 billion to local authorities, for many, the money didn’t come. Far from being a Restart Grant, the money just sat in the bank accounts of local councils – and in some case is still there. New data from the Government shows which local authorities have dished the cash out and it varies greatly between regions. For example, in East Riding, Yorkshire Council has issued £23.7 million
the council, which leaves £1.4 million to still give away by the end this month. What is obvious though is there is still money to deliver to businesses; of the £3.4 billion, just £2.6 billion has arrived in the pockets of retailers. By my calculations that leaves
bira.co.uk
GT COVER STORY: Yankee Candles®
As Christmas soon approaches, Yankee Candle® invites you to experience the ultimate festive countdown. With its Countdown to Christmas collection, Yankee Candle® introduces a break from the traditional, with a joyful fragrance offering that celebrates all the hallmark occasions that bring about seasonal cheer
P
roviding the perfect jolly scents to enjoy throughout the holiday period, there is much to be celebrated in the latest collection by Yankee Candle®. A new lease of life is brought to customary rituals with five new seasonal fragrances available in the Original Small, Medium and Large Jars, Votives and Wax Melts. All things are merry and bright as Yankee Candle® plays a special role during cherished Christmas traditions.
24 Gifts Today
Tree Farm Festival Kick off the festive season with this beloved Christmas ritual. Tree Farm Festival creates an immersive atmosphere, as you put your feet up by your newly chosen Christmas tree. Soak up the festive sprit with family and friends, as the enticing scents of pine, vetiver and gardenia blend with the anticipation in the air. Tree Farm Festival has top notes of pine needle and violet leaves, mid notes of cedarwood, gardenia and magnolia, and base notes of vetiver, sandalwood and musk.
Merry Berry Bursting with good tidings and good cheer. The sweet aromas of sugar plum and raspberry make it an occasion, while you bake a cherished family recipe or raise a toast with loved ones. Merry Berry captures shared traditions for years to come, with top notes of honeybell orange, zesty lemon and dried apricot, mid notes of sugar plum, red raspberry and gooseberry, and base notes of butter cookie, vanilla and tonka bean.
Twinkling Lights Brighten the celebration with the warm glow of lights. The perfect companion when it’s time to deck the halls, as the first string of lights does up. Twinkling Lights brings a delightful blend of almond, jasmine and amber notes. Soft and sweet, Twinkling Lights has top notes of almond and peach, mid notes of milk, jasmine and fragripani, and base notes of vanilla, sandalwood and cedarwood.
Letters to Santa Special memories that make the holiday season unforgettable. Capturing the familiarity of childhood excitement with the beginning of new traditions. Letters to Santa has notes of papery woods and amber, sweetened by sugared musk scents to evoke the joy of handwritten letters. Beautifully festive, Letters to Santa features top notes of solar cinnamon, sunshine and lemondrop, mid notes of solar accord, coconut, sandalwood and sugarered musk and base notes of amber and praline.
Christmas Eve Cocoa The final merry note of the Christmas countdown. Finishing off with a Christmas classic, rich with cocoa bar and sweet vanilla scents. Christmas Eve Cocoa captures the aromas of a delicious treat with top notes of citrus, vetiver, mint, marjoram and clove, mid notes of sandalwood, vanilla, blossom, geranium and tuberose, and base notes of white woods, praline musk and patchouli. Christmas is also the time of the year to enjoy Yankee Candle® festive fragrances you already know and love, such as All Is Bright, Christmas Cookie™, Christmas Eve®, Snow In Love and Sparkling Cinnamon.
Our philosophy Authentic fragrances
Thorough testing and quality control
Made with quality ingredients
Whether it’s the fresh air and sunshine scent of Clean Cotton®, or one of our other fragrances, we have been sharing our passion for fragrance with the world since 1969. It is important that every fragrance we launch is true-to-life and realistic to the experience that inspired it, whether that be a flower, food, fruit or place.
Our candles are made by master chandlers (candlemakers) and each candle developed is a complex system of custom blended wax, a unique wick and carefully crafted fragrance. Master perfumers develop Yankee Candle® fragrances for consistent and satisfying performance across all of our products. Every fragrance is rigorously screened and tested by our highly experienced team of fragrance experts to achieve a strong fragrance and quality experience.
All of our Yankee Candle® Original Jar candles are made at our in-house production facilities in the US and Europe, with quality ingredients from around the world. Our master candlemakers maintain high standards, commitment and craftsmanship.
Get in touch! Call: +44 (0)117 316 1200 | Email: hfcustomercare@newellco.com Visit: www.yankeecandle.co.uk
Preview
Welcome back to
Autumn Fair! With Autumn Fair set to open its doors again from 5-8 September at Birmingham’s NEC, we caught up with Event Director Jessica Dawnay to learn what the show will have in store for retailers Jessica, how does it feel to be welcoming people back to Autumn Fair? We are delighted to finally be returning to the thing we do best; market-leading events facilitating trade, collaboration and creativity. We’re working hard to make our in-person shows safe and secure and we can’t wait to welcome our community back to the NEC Birmingham after such a long time apart. The show will be brimming with newness and inspiration. How are you finding exhibitor and visitor confidence as we head nearer to the show? Feedback is really positive. If the last year showed us anything beneficial it is how much people and businesses have missed face to face networking and it has given the industry a fresh appetite for physical shows. After the initial appeal of online meetings faded, the reality hit home that nothing quite beats the excitement and anticipation of entering a show bursting with new innovations and inspiring products, and of walking up to a stand and seeing, touching, and experiencing products in your hands. 26 Gifts Today
Safe & secure
Following the government’s latest guidance, and working in consultation with the Association of Event Organisers (AEO), Autumn Fair will ask all attendees, including visitors, exhibitors, contractors, venue and organiser staff, to verify their Covid-19 status on arrival. This means all attendees will need to demonstrate proof of Covid-19 status for entry to the event. This will need to be one of the following: When you spend the day at a trade show you feel part of a community, you meet new brands and designers creating incredible things, you re-connect with people who run established and successful businesses, you explore and discover and come away with a renewed energy and excitement for the forthcoming season. What’s the layout of the Show? The show takes place in Halls 6 – 20. Gift is situated in Halls 6, 7 and Hall 20, which also includes the Small Business Sunday Pavilion.
1 2 3
Proof of completion of a full course of vaccination two weeks prior to arrival. roof of a negative Lateral Flow Test taken within 48hrs P of arrival (retaken and reported every 72hrs). roof of natural immunity shown by a positive PCR test P result for Covid-19, lasting for 180 days from the date of the positive test and following completion of the self-isolation period.
autumnfair.com/contact-us/visit-faqs
suppliers to meet and kickstart long-term relationships and creates a better, more productive way to buy. Using the Curated Meetings online platform, buyers can filter for products that truly suit their desired aesthetic, product type, price range and beyond. Whether that’s lifestyle and scandi, classic and vintage, or maybe children’s toys through to ceramics or silver jewellery. How is the Online Marketplace going? And what benefits do you think it brings to the physical shows? It’s going really well. After lengthy research we knew there was a big appetite for an easy-to-use online trading platform that builds on the physicality of our live shows, offering a continuous flow of newness and a growing cross-section of products. It also enables brands and buyers to deepen relationships started in person at Autumn and Spring Fair.
Exhibitors – old and new – you’d like people to know about? Visitors will be met with a host of compelling returning favourites, new, and exclusive to Autumn Fair brands galore. Within Gift, look out for Eclectic Lifestyle, Joe Davies, Sass & Belle, Kikkerland Europe B.V., Sifcon International Plc, while buyers seeking the season’s must-have toys, will discover returning brands Ty, Grossman, Universal Games as well as new to the show Mood Bears, Fabular Toy, Treasure Map trails, SES Creative and Click Europe. New exhibitors to the show line-up include recent Dragons' Den winners Willsow, as well as Chalk UK, Bachmann Europe, Peony & Pine, Emily Victoria Candles, and Rainbow Design. Some of the exclusive to Autumn Fair brands include Puckator, Keel Toys, Sea Gems and Nour London. Other brands showcasing their new ranges and collections at Autumn Fair include Lisa Angel, Paper Salad, The Little Dog Laughed, Big Metal, Lido Pearls, My Doris, Bessie London, Susie Blue, Bomb Cosmetics, and new to the show French jewellery brand Jadien. Will there be a focus on sustainability at the show? Following the successful launch of the Sustainability Trail at Spring Fair 2020, the focus on sustainability continues
at Autumn Fair with the launch of The Sustainability Library and a host of onsite initiatives. Before the show opens visitors can connect with exhibiting sustainable brands at autumnfair. com/the-sustainability-library-atautumn-fair-home and in just a few clicks discover the stories, pledges and initiatives from brands who are doing their part to ensure a more sustainable and ethical future for us all. Sustainable exhibitors already signed up to the Sustainability Library include Vent for Change, Alexander Thurlow & Co and My Gift Trade. You’re launching Curated Meetings at Autumn Fair with a special focus on Gifts. What’s the thinking behind this? We are really excited about the introduction of Curated Meetings. Over 500 meetings are planned across two days, bringing together buyers from a host of leading national and independent retailers keen to hand-pick next season’s bestsellers. Designed to offer a highly curated, time-efficient and no hassle matchmaking service where buyers and suppliers only take meetings with partners they have selected and approved, Curated Meetings provides a unique opportunity for buyers and
Any special events running at the show? Don’t miss a visit to the #SBS Pavilion. We are incredibly pleased to continue our partnership with Theo Paphitis’ #SBS Small Business Sunday dedicated to showcasing new and unique products from ambitious start-ups and small businesses. Our shared values and
vision with #SBS and Theo enable us to provide an incredible opportunity for start-up businesses, and we're excited to see all our winners at the show. For the first time, Autumn Fair welcomes Moda to its definitive Fashion offering alongside the Jewellery & Watch and Fashion (JWF) sector. A natural pairing of two must-visit sectors, Moda and JWF allows for easier product discovery and diversification amongst fashion, jewellery and gift retailers. How can visitors register and what do they need to know? You can pre-register now at autumnfair.com, and be sure to download the official Autumn Fair app for even more information before the show to get the most out of planning your visit. Powered by Grip, the app uses AI-technology to give you product recommendations based on your unique interests. You can also search for exhibitors directly to find out their stand number and location, use the in-built interactive floorplan map to navigate your way around the show, view the theatre timetable and Sustainability and Made in Britain Product Trails, plus and bookmark and save individual exhibitors, products and seminars to your profile.
autumnfair.com
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Gifts Today 27
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Gifts galore Joe Davies
Hall 7, stand A60-B61 snoozies! cosy little foot coverings - The Original and the Best - have been one of Joe Davies’ best sellers for ten years with over two million pairs sold. New designs for 2021 include on trend Tie Dye, Dazzle Bling Ballerinas for the ladies and great new Velour snoozies! for the guys. A free snoozies! spinner is available with any order of 144 pairs. Another great range from Joe Davies is their popular Nuzzles collection of slipper socks that have a nice soft warm Sherpa fabric inside to keep your feet toasty. New designs have been added, such as diamonds, spots, owls, dogs, and cats in long and short styles. The popular Equilibrium range of jewellery and fashion accessories from Joe Davies is a hot selling range for independent retailers. One of the exciting new ranges is ‘All that Bling’ - this elegant range has been designed to sparkle and add a special finishing touch to that Christmas party outfit. The Equilibrium brand is also well known for its lovely range of boxed accessories for those important back-end sales; with this in mind Joe Davies have developed a brand new range of bamboo socks. These bamboo socks are super soft, comfortable, and are available in a range of pretty designs such as bees, hedgehogs, owls and many more popular icons. Joe Davies are excited to introduce their new contemporary Visage face collection of home décor items and vases. Inspired by the simple drawings of Picasso, this elegant range has been designed by Joe Davies in the UK. The modern face design is embossed onto a simple textured background and is available in two different colourways; champagne and gun metal grey, making them beautiful show stoppers to match current home décor trends. Sentiment Gifts continue to be important as the country starts to come out of restrictions. With this in mind, Joe Davies launch their new Rainbow Graphique collection of ceramic gifts with a brightly coloured rainbow design and heartfelt messages for mum, sister, friends and many more.
Call: 0161 975 6300 Email: sales@joedavies.co.uk Visit: joedavies.co.uk 28 Gifts Today
Yankee Candle® Sleep Diffuser and Refills create a relaxing atmosphere for great sleep! Calm Night
Mess-free, easy to use refills - no water required! Enjoy up to 30 nights of relaxing fragrance
Peaceful Dreams
Select from 3 fragrances, specially blended with ingredients known for their calming properties Starry Slumber
Available to ORDER NOW For further information on the new Yankee Candle® Sleep Diffuser or any of our Home Fragrance products, get in touch with us today: +44 (0)117 316 1200
hfcustomercare@newellco.com
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Next for
Rex Rex London
Hall 20, stand: D50-E51 Rex London will be showcasing a selection of their Gifts of Random Kindness at the Autumn Fair this September. Here are the key collections and categories that will be available to see in person at the show, along with plenty more. Sprinkle some fairy dust and enter a magical realm of fey and enchantment with the Fairies in the Garden collection, which since the core collection launched under a year ago, has gone on to become an extremely popular new Rex London design. The ever-expanding Wild Wonders collection is bold and bright, with nearly 60 products available (and counting!) in this bestselling print. These are two of the biggest designs for kids right now at Rex London, sitting alongside favourites such as Space Age, Prehistoric Land and Top Banana. Other key categories available at the trade fair include gifts for the home, lifestyle gifts, and even more gifts for kids. With something for every room, you can celebrate your customers’ unique style with their range of retro inspired home decor and kitchen accessories. Have you seen the set of two leopard storage tins featured in some of Autumn Fair’s promotions? Rex London have just launched three brand new designs, which you will be able to see alongside the originals at their stand. With a wide range of bags and purses on offer, you can discover their weekend away bags, washbags, make-up bags, wallets and purses in fun prints. And those bags can be stuffed with plenty of on-the-go accessories, from glasses cases to pocket mirrors. Toys, puzzles and games are a huge category at Rex London, with plenty on offer to delight kids of all ages and interests. From brand new make and build kits, to puzzles of varying degrees of difficulty, the focus is on screen-free playtime, with many of their products having a classic retro feel with a modern twist, which can be quite nostalgic for older family members!
Call: 020 8746 1700 Email: info@rexlondon.com Visit: rexlondontrade.com 30 Gifts Today
go eco
Come and visit us at the Autumn Fair Hall 6 Stand E10
100% recycled 100% repurpose reuse & repurpose www.heylandandwhittle.co.uk | e:sales@heylandandwhittle.co.uk | t:+44 (0)1293 525825
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Cornish
candles St. Eval
Hall 6, stand F14 Nestled on their farm in North Cornwall, St. Eval are proud to use traditional methods and sustainable production to craft high quality candles by hand; perfecting the art and science of candle making for over 28 years. Their unique pots, wax blends and fragrances are all inspired by nature and the beautiful coast and countryside surrounding them. Bringing the natural character and charm of St. Eval to the fore this winter, they present festive collections inspired by the enchanting autumn and winter seasons, as well as spectacular pillars, majestic multiwicks, scented tin candles, tealights and more – Christmas truly begins with a St. Eval scented candle.
Christmas Tins and Tealights Collection St. Eval are so excited to unveil new whimsical designs for their most loved Christmas Scented Tins and Tealights this year, featuring beautiful illustrations each telling a different story to celebrate the magic of the season in your home. Enjoy the comforting winter aromas of sweet and fruity Figgy Pudding, spicy Inspiritus, warming Orange & Cinnamon and earthy, herbal Winter Thyme.
White Christmas Collection Inspired by snowy landscapes and the magic of Christmas, these elegant pots and matching tealights more dazzling than ever this year with an enhanced gold finish. A perfect, cosy, addition to the home this winter. Available in three comforting festive scents; spicy Inspiritus, zesty, warming Orange & Cinnamon and earthy, herbal Winter Thyme.
Winter Woodland Collection Bring festive cheer with a new addition to the enchanting Winter Woodland Collection with a beautiful Hare pot. This heart-warming collection is home to three loveable characters inspired by winter wildlife – a charming trio to add a festive touch to the home. Available in three comforting festive scents; spicy Inspiritus, zesty, warming Orange & Cinnamon and earthy, herbal Winter Thyme.
Call: 01841 540 850 Email: info@st-eval.com Visit: st-eval.com
32 Gifts Today
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Traditional
fun
House of Marbles Hall 20, stand B50 – C51 House of Marbles has been manufacturing high-quality, traditional games, toys and puzzles for nearly 50 years and proudly offers a huge selection of nostalgic entertainment and retro jollity for great retailers all over the world. You can find all the classics at House of Marbles as well as great new games and toys with a little vintage style. All the ranges have been refreshed and updated with innovative design and eye-catching packaging to bring the fun to a whole new generation of consumers as well as taking many of us back to our childhoods. House of Marbles are definitely the experts to call if your shop needs a boost of joyful nostalgia for the Christmas season. Autumn 2021 sees a host of new product to choose from, with fabulous seasonal games plus a massive new range of their ever-popular gift and activity books for children. The ‘Naughty or Nice?’ board game is perfect for a Christmas Eve box, the selection of Christmas books has something for all ages and the hugely popular Penguin Bowling set is super-fun gift for young children, as well as being made from sustainably-sourced wood with no plastic in sight. So for Christmas presents, stocking fillers and much, much more - with great customer service and speedy delivery – House of Marbles is the home of traditional gifts for all the family.
Call: 01626 835358 Email: uk@houseofmarbles.com Visit: houseofmarbles.com 34 Gifts Today
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20th anniversary Emma Ball
Hall 20, stand B23 Twenty years of supplying giftware, stationery, and greetings cards this September are a huge celebration for the Emma Ball team. Over the last two decades, their product range began from a set of 24 greetings cards alongside a few limited-edition prints; there are now over 3000 products to choose from, with an umbrella of six artists offering something for everyone. Emma Ball have a huge variety of stockists, including gift shops, cookshops, wool shops, bookshops, garden centres, post offices and many more. Popular products include many UK-made items, such as greetings cards, stationery, gift-wrap, tea towels, and trays. They pride themselves on sourcing as locally as possible, believing in supporting local businesses, only sourcing abroad when there is no other option. Emma Ball also offer a bespoke service, enabling customers to have exclusive products for their business. With a superb network of UK suppliers, they can offer bespoke to customers both big and small, with minimums as low as 100 units. They can take existing artwork of Emma’s and add a design element, such as a place name; if new artwork needs to be produced, the same rules apply – no setup fees, no artwork charges, and low minimum values. Most importantly, they offer the same cost prices as stock items, making it a very attractive option for their customers. Newly in stock for Autumn Fair, is an extensive range of Washi-Tape – perfect for journaling, crafters, and wrapping gifts all year round. There are 30 designs available in sizes 15mm & 20mm, in 10 meters of length, presented in delightfully decorated packaging. They also have a forever-growing tinware collection in over 70 designs across all shapes and sizes. Ranges include teeny-tiny slidey tins, cake tins, tins for card storage, money tins, and even glasses cases, all retailing between £2 - £10. Their Bone China mugs are still top sellers, now available in over 50 designs. Each mug is presented in a beautiful storage box retailing at £12.50. Brand new designs will showcase at the show, including Eric Heyman’s popular Buzzy Bees, and Emma’s Alpacas. The boxed mugs are only exclusive to Emma Ball Ltd. Get in touch for more information 36 Gifts Today
Call: Lucy on 0115 9858081 | Email: sales@emmaball.co.uk Visit: emmaball.co.uk
Natural Nirvana
Arctic
If you are interested in stocking Present Time, please contact us: Luke Felton Country Manager UK & Ireland 07975597855 | lf@presenttime.com www.presenttime.com
Air
5 - 8 September AutumnFair - Birmingham, UK 20G10 – 19A11
Showroom UK coming soon....
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Glorious
gifts Puckator
Hall 7, stand D48-E49 Puckator are extremely happy to announce they’ll be attending Autumn Fair. They’re ready to show off their new and exciting ranges, designs and licensed products, as well as some of their most popular best sellers. Alongside an extensive collection of other well-known licences, Puckator will be showcasing their brand new collaboration with Pusheen. Made up of products spanning areas, such as homeware, lunch accessories and beauty, you can find a Pusheen product for each room of the house. This range also includes some of Puckator's newest products, the fold-over cool bag and the stacked bento lunch box. Whether you're looking to show off at school or you need a practical option for the daily commute, these lunch accessories will make sure that whatever goes inside arrives at its final destination in one piece. Another partnership you can expect to see at the NEC this year is Puckator's official Original Stormtrooper range. This collection has grown considerably in the past year, now sporting products such as the highly popular LED digital thermometer bottle and the Relaxeazzz plush travel pillow and eye mask. Puckator's LED digital thermometer bottles are created using the highest quality stainless steel and BPA free PVC. They hold 450ml of liquid, keep cold drinks cold for up to 24 hours and warm drinks warm for up to six hours and by touching the top of the lid with your finger, you can see a digital readout of the temperature inside. Another exciting announcement from behind the scenes at Puckator is that their best selling Adoramals range is also growing. Now you can get your hands on super cute, shaped hairbrushes, lip balms and makeup sponges. Not to mention their new Adoramals gel eye masks. Everything you need for the perfect sleepover.
Call: 0800 011 6969 Email: customerservices@puckator.co.uk Visit: puckator.co.uk 38 Gifts Today
Preview
Neat wheat The Wheat Bag Company Hall 6, stand F01 Call: 01747 840499 Email: sales@thewheatbagcompany.co.uk The Wheat Bag Company is an established company manufacturing Microwavable Wheat Bags and other unique items in the UK. The Wheat Bags come in a variety of designs to suit all tastes, including their own bespoke range of fabrics that include rainbows, highland cattle, donkeys, swimming penguins and bumblebees. Each Wheat Bag is filled with cleaned English wheat and optional lavender buds. Lavender does not only smell delightful but is well known for its natural aromatherapy qualities of helping to aid sleep and relaxation. They are an all over body pillow that simply heats up in the microwave to provide soothing warmth, relaxation and creates an overall sense of wellbeing. Paired with the company’s new essential lavender oil, they make a wonderful personal gift. The Wheat Bag Company’s product range also includes their handcrafted PADi Pillows, made from 100% cotton with a polystyrene bead inner. A stable, lightweight, hands-free tablet stand. Perfect for holding and supporting any mobile device. Suitable for iPads, Kindles, phones and all other portable devices including books. The company are always coming up with new ideas and expanding their product collection, including:
NEW, NEW, NEW! Hot Water Bottles Joining the collection are the handmade hot water bottles, available in a range of popular fabric designs and come with a traditional hot water bottle or a wheat filled inner. There’s a 2-Litre Hot Water Bottle and Extra Long Hot Water Bottle. Fabric Designs
Introducing Dachshund and Pug prints!
Luxury Velvet Range
Available in soft luxurious velvet fabrics. The range includes wheat bags, PADi Pillows, Door Stops and Glasses Cases.
Door Stops
Each doorstop is individually hand made from cotton fabric, weighted with cleaned English wheat grains and topped with padding to maintain their shape. Perfect for any home interior, these functional and beautiful fabric doorstops are perfect for keeping heavy doors in place. They are available in a wide range of designs to suit all homes and tastes.
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Preview
Present & correct Present Time Hall 20, stand G10 - 19A11 New autumn/winter collection Present Time are introducing 500+ products to their new collection. Some of their all-time favourites, like the Leitmotiv pet sofas, PT, plant pots and PT bird statues, will come in new theme-based trend colours. They are also introducing a lot of products in polyresin with a textured finish – the original statues they have created are the showpiece. Their new collection is available this October and you can pre-order now. Present Time brings the cutest home decor and accessories to your interior. The Dutch label designs trendy items keeping in mind the warm, cosy and uplifting feeling that you want to experience at home. Brands: Karlsson - Leitmotiv - Pt,
Natural Nirvana Present Time introduce this collection in two themes, bringing a new theme for the winter: Natural Nirvana. A theme inspired by nature, the colours of this theme are based on natural tones from the earth; from different sand tones to moss greens. This theme has a pure, clean look with a warm and cosy feel. The use of different fabrics gives it a soft glow. The items from this theme fit perfectly with materials like bamboo, clay, leather and cork.
Arctic Air This theme is a keeper! Present Time introduced it recently in their collection and for them it only makes sense to add more items to it. The feel of this theme is modern and tough. It is inspired by all the colours the air can have. From a misty green to a dark purple sky. Mostly cool colours that fit perfectly with materials like black steel, nickel, marble, stone and velvet.
Call: Luke Felton, Country Manager UK & Ireland on 07975597855 Email: Luke Felton on lf@presenttime.com Visit: presenttime.com Showroom UK coming soon
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NEW NEW NEW....
Harry Potter Wizarding World 3D Puzzle series introduce four new spellbinding 3D Puzzle Models The new series of Toolbox Game
Guinness Pub Quiz 44 Gifts Today
Games galore University Games
Hall 6, stands H70 - J71 and J57 So much to discover at University Games and The Lagoon Group at Autumn Fair this year. The games, puzzles and gift specialist will be adding some magical new lines to its 700 strong best-selling product range that keeps the whole family entertained, from preschool through to adult. Launching at Autumn Fair and joining the ever-popular and best-selling Harry Potter Wizarding World 3D Puzzle series will be four new spellbinding 3D Puzzle Models. The magical home of the Weasley Family, the Burrow and the enchanted Great Hall 3D Puzzles will be joined by the transforming Knight Bus and the home of Hogwarts’ Keeper of the Keys, Hagrid’s Hut. These fantastically detailed 3D Puzzles can be assembled with no need for tools or scissors and make a brilliant gift for any Harry Potter fan. A new licence joining the Lagoon Group this autumn is the renowned beverage brand, Guinness. With the addition of four great pub-focused games, this new range is perfect for entertaining and makes a fun gift. The range includes a Guinness styled version of the classic Shut-the-Box game. Players have to spell out G-u-i-n-n-e-s-s and the Harp to Shut-the-Box! Along with a traditional Guinness Pub Quiz there are also Guinness Coaster Games and Guinness World’s Best Dice Games available. Arriving this autumn are some brilliant new additions to University Games’ children’s and family portfolios including Quicksand, Anti-Monopoly, Auto Correct and 5 Star Review. Joining their ever-growing murder mystery range are two new Crime Case Files to be solved! Case Files will keep individuals occupied, or they can be completed as a group, reviewing all the evidence as they attempt to identify the assailant and solve the crime. The new series of Toolbox Games – You Know the Drill, Nailed it! and Hammered! make perfect gifts for any DIY fan that likes a bit of fun. With Charades, Tough Trivia and Drinking Games to choose from, all presented in a toolbox-style packaging, these pick up and play games are a great way to liven up a party in the man cave, shed or with friends or family at a dinner party. University Games also has a phenomenal range of puzzles on offer from 24-piece floor puzzles of some of their much-loved children’s characters through to 4000 piece jigsaws for adults. One of the most popular puzzle collections is The Beatles series that includes Yellow Submarine, Abbey Road and Sgt. Pepper and new for 2021 are Let it Be and the Album Covers montage. There are also new Mindfulness Puzzles and an Impossibles series to keep puzzlers entertained.
Call: 020 7254 0100 Visit: university-games.co.uk
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Preview
Doing things naturally Heaven Scent Hall 6, stand G02 Heaven Scent say it’s good to be back into the swing of doing trade shows again this year. They had their most successful Home & Gift ever, and are keen to meet their customers again at Autumn Fair this September. During the past 18 months they’ve been very busy creating new ranges and implementing Heaven Scent's green sustainability strategy. They have a new range of body products in glass packaging, enabling them to gently phase out their plastic bottles. They’re introducing a new Amber Glass Candle Range that comes in their usual 9cl, 20cl and 30cl sizes with over 80 fragrances to choose from. Heaven Scent will be introducing their new Botanical range, a set of lovely candles inspired by plants and flowers and illustrated with the specific plant on the label. They have added new designs to their Christmas Illustrated range and will be showcasing their new Essential Oil Wellbeing Candles, a set of six new essential oil combination fragrances. Customers will be able to take a look at the new Well-Being/Gift Boxes where they can choose the components to sell.
Call: 01225 868788 Email: contact@heavenscent.co.uk Visit: heavenscent.co.uk
Huggable, snuggable Warmies
Hall6, stand H22-J23 Warmies are proud to be returning to the Autumn Fair this year; after 2020 saw a year of unknown, they are excited to be back where they belong, welcoming both new and familiar faces to their stand. Their 2021 exhibition will showcase the release of four new collections along with their ever-popular core lines. 2021 will see the release of four new Warmies Ranges including ‘The Luxury Range’ which is made up of Luxury Boots, Slippers and Neck Wraps in three attractive colourways. Alongside this, they have welcomed the ‘My First’ collection. This range is perfect for new babies and very young children, designed to be their first soft toy; but equally can be enjoyed by any age. Also new to Warmies are the ‘Sentiments Bears’, a four-piece collection offering messages of ‘Congratulations’, ‘Happy Birthday’, ‘I Love You’ and ‘New Baby’. A new luxury HotPak range will be launching too, sure to surpass all expectations of luxury, along with 16 new beautiful Soft Toy additions – perfect for any occasion. Be sure to stop by and see for yourself how you can make sure this winter is a huggable, snuggable, loveable one. The team can’t wait to see you all very soon!
Call: 01933 679 777 Email: sales@warmies.co.uk Visit: warmies.co.uk 46 Gifts Today
Preview
Stylish
gifts Lesser & Pavey 7E30 - 6A31 William Morris
The giftware company have added a new range of William Morris tableware to their existing collection. William Morris was renowned worldwide as a legendary British textile designer, poet and novelist, associated with the British Arts and Crafts Movement, and was major contributor to the revival of traditional British textile art. The William Morris Compton range is an exciting new addition offering mugs, tea sets and lap trays. There’s also a range featuring a design called Bachelor’s Button, an on-trend grey and white pattern. It features chinaware mugs, jug, tea for one, teapot, butter dish with coasters, placemats, trays, cutting board and lap tray. New items added are cushions and doorstops.
Aroma Lamps
More than a lamp, these Aroma Lamps from Lesser & Pavey bring fragrance and light into any living space in the home and this new range brings delightful floral shapes. The Desire range is all about wellbeing and these lamps are touch sensitive, projecting light that can be used with wax melts and aroma oils. They create an atmosphere in a decorative addition that forms a range of over 100 items. Each one comes individually gift boxed. Some have a remote control and can play music by Bluetooth. The fragrance oil and wax melts to use in conjunction with the lamps are also available
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Diamante diffusers Bling will always be popular, and these silver and rose gold diffusers are perfect for Christmas. Diffusers come in 100ml, 200ml, 500ml and are filled with quality perfumes and reeds; some are available in a gift set of three diffusers, with candle and diffuser gift sets as well. Attractive gift boxes add to the product finished look.
Lynsey Johnstone Christmas glassware Lesser & Pavey launch new additions to the highly successful range of stylish hand painted glassware featuring dragonflies, flowers, bumblebees, ladybirds and much more. These are the newest additions to the Lynsey Johnstone range that continues to grow. Each item is beautifully gift packaged and will make a perfect gift.
Visit: leonardo.co.uk
Autumn Fair - Birmingham NEC 5th - 8th September 2021 Hall 7, Stand B62-C63
www.aromatizetrade.co.uk
Tel: 01254 300268
Email: sales@aromatize.co.uk
Preview
So eco Heyland & Whittle Hall 6, stand E10 Eco Collection An eco-collection of fragrant, hand-poured and blended soy candles and reed diffusers, housed in 100% recycled glass and packaged in 100% recycled card. This eco-collection helps customers to make more eco-friendly lifestyle choices in the home. This new eco collection takes Heyland & Whittle’s commitment as a business to care for the planet one big step further. For the first time, they have created a collection of handpoured candles and reed diffusers that are contained in 100% recycled glass and packaged in 100% recycled card. The diffuser and candle vessels can be re-purposed again and again as drinks glasses, hot beverage glasses, flower vases, biscuit and snack bowls, water and juice jugs and flower vases. The fragrant hand-poured candles are made with a sustainable soy wax and essential oil blend for a clean, slow, even burn. There are three new fragrances in this collection, available as both diffuser and candle options. ■ ■ ■
Geranium & Oud: Fresh and rich green, peppery geranium blended with sweet, smoky oud and fragrant hints of rose, jasmine and praline. Mint & Bergamot: Uplifting and refreshing fresh, cool mint blended with zesty, citrussy bergamot –the ‘just picked’ aroma of summer. Hibiscus & White Tea: Calming and relaxing woody citrus notes of white tea blended with gentle florals, hibiscus, freesia and jasmine - a gentle aroma with feelgood benefits.
Heyland & Whittle will be launching three new exciting fragrances in their Eco reed diffuser and candle collection at the show - come and sniff!
100 % Eco-Friendly Soap Collection These twelve fragrant, 100% natural, handmade soaps boxed in recycled card make it easier for customers to make more eco-friendly lifestyle choices to care for both the planet and their family. This new collection of palm oil-free soaps promises a better tomorrow for the planet. Heyland & Whittle are well practised in the artisan production of handmade, 100% natural soaps. They follow the cold processed method using only 100% natural, pure ingredients, including essential oils, herbs, spices and natural colourings such as madder root and turmeric. For this collection, Heyland & Whittle have chosen not to use palm oil in the production and have boxed the soaps in 100% recycled card that is itself recyclable. All the soaps are proudly handmade by them in their workshop in West Sussex. All paraben and sulphate-free and not tested on animals.
Call: 01293 525825 Email: sales@heylandandwhittle.co.uk Visit: heylandandwhittle.co.uk
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Preview
D&J Glassware Hall 6, stand B43
Call: 01953 450280 Email: dandj.glassware@btinternet.com Visit: dandjglassware.co.uk
Christmas cheer Alexander Thurlow Hall 8, stand A36 Alexander Thurlow are giving us reason to decorate more than just our homes this Christmas, with designs that capture the holiday’s natural icons - mistletoe, holly and poinsettia pieces. Whether these pieces complete your own outfit, or make a loved one smile, there has never been more reason to invest in these intricate items. Poppy flowers will also be on display at this year’s Autumn Fair, always a popular and symbolic range that Alexander Thurlow are known for. Fancying more of a year round gift? Alexander Thurlow’s ‘Love Nature, Love Flower’ range includes best-selling lines such as the Lily, Bluebell and Forget-MeNot that each hold unique meaning, significance and undeniable beauty. A more recent range of bouquet items also completes this vivacious collection, bringing the wonder of nature to life, minus the hayfever!
Call: 020 8766 6466 | Visit: alexanderthurlow.com
Fine design Ceramic Design Heritage Hall 20 Stand A01 Ceramic Design Heritage will be exhibiting at Autumn Fair for the first time, showcasing their Museum Collection Giftware Collection. There’s a focus on the Heritage Sector featuring historic designs from William Morris, Walter Crane and Charles Rennie Mackintosh. Ceramic Design Heritage also offer a full bespoke design and production service for retailers and independent artists. Already working with Alice Peto, Katie Cardew, Robert Fuller and many others, they offer a full range of fine bone china, British melamine and textiles. Head to their stand for examples.
Call: 07909 539574 | Email: paul@cdheritage.com Visit: cdheritage.com
D & J Glassware is looking forward to seeing everyone after such a long break. Customers old and new will be welcomed onto the stand to see the company’s fabulous handcrafted glassware. The stunning Tree of Life balls and Friendship collections are a real delight and are firm favourites amongst retailers. Mouth blown using crystal glass recycled from the wine glass industry, the quality and clarity are superb: seeing is believing. The gorgeous handmade fused glass animal collection just keep on growing and visitors will see exciting new introductions. In these strange times, the animals have been selling well as they put a smile on faces of all ages. So easy to create an impactful display: the collections are a great addition to any retail environment. The cute Runner Duck is just one of the designs making its debut at Autumn Fair – make sure you visit the stand to see the others. As well as discovering beautiful mouth blown and fused glass designs, the company’s successful fragrance collections will delight the senses. The bold colourful designs continue in popularity with their carefully matched fragrance options and attractive, recyclable gift packaging. Appealing to those preferring an understated elegance, the stylish Simply Chic range has proved a real winner. The British-made fragrances are of the highest quality, providing customer satisfaction and strong repeat purchases. To maximise incremental sales, the company offers re-fill oils and reeds. Attractively presented, British made Pot Pourri and Room Sprays complete the range to make D & J Glassware a one-stop shop for a stunning fragrance offering all year round. With Christmas in mind, don’t miss the Scented Pine Cones in organza bags and ‘Woodland Delight’, a festive fragranced blend of cones, berries and citrus in a cello bag finished with red satin ribbon. All packed by hand in Britain.
Preview
Ready readers Opticaid
Hall 6, stand D38 Opticaid Eyewear will showcase their new Remaldi reading glass range alongside bestselling styles. Among the many new reading styles are Bampton Tortoise, Newcastle Tortoise and Leeds Black. ‘There is a definite trend particularly at the younger end of the market (that’s 40 years plus for reading glasses!) for heavy looking oversized reading glasses. Many customers now want to make a big statement with their eyewear - perhaps it’s all those Zoom meetings,’ says Gillian Marchbank, buyer. The range represents great value with an RRP of £14 and includes a branded storage pouch. The range is suitable for a number of fashion and gift outlets and can be supplied with display stands, subject to qualifying quantities. Opticaid have added to their fun spec holder range with the arrival of Maurice & Mae – cute elephants that hold your specs when not in use. Maurice & Mae join the company’s best selling range of spec holders which include Snozzles, cats, dogs and hippos and make ideal gifts for Christmas and anyone who constantly loses their glasses. They come gift packed and retail at £10.
Call: 0113 239 1400 Email: sales@opticaid.net Visit: opticaid.net
Colour & style
Miss Milly
Hall 8, stand A50-B51 Miss Milly brings affordable colour and style to your store. Try out this awardwinning, British brand with a £100 minimum order and no MOQs. Bold and bright are the company’s focus, and the new jewellery collection does not disappointment with seasonal jewel colours punctuated with bursts of fuchsia, lime, orange and turquoise. The new scarf collection includes year-round styles and weights alongside heavier, winter weight pieces in cosy fabric with a mix of patterned and plain designs. For a bit of festive cheer, check out the cute, matt silver squirrel, reindeer and donkey brooches, which complement returning, popular cat and dog from 2019/20. These sit alongside the best-selling magnetic brooches, of which there are a variety of new styles, including bulldogs and fish. Great pick-up and Christmas gifting lines include gift-boxed resin cufflinks, compact mirrors and a wide range of fun, enamelled animal and bird keyrings. All topped off with friendly, efficient service.
Call: 01905 622509 | Email: hello@missmilly.co.uk Visit: missmilly.co.uk
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Preview
Make a
wish WishStrings
Hall 6, stand B27 A little wish goes a long way… When you open a WishStrings’ Wish Bracelet, simply make a wish as you tie the bracelet around your wrist. Then, when the string begins to fray, the wish will come true, so they say. With a collection of thoughtful sentiments and beautiful designs to choose from, WishStrings make the perfect gift your customers will really appreciate. WishStrings are lovingly handmade to order in their Scottish studio by their Wish Makers, especially for you and your customers. WishStrings also have an exciting new range of wooden Wish Tokens and exciting Wish Cards launching this year.
Email: wishstrings@hotmail.co.uk Visit: wishstringswholesale.co.uk
Home fragrance Aromatize Ltd
Hall 7, Stand B62-C63 Aromatize are the leading UK supplier of home fragrance products in the UK. With their vast portfolio including brands such as Aroma Accessories, Woodbridge and Village Candle they cover every element that is required in the home fragrance market. No company offers as many designs or variations of electrical wax melt burners, electrical diffusers and non-electric accessories at the most competitive prices. Their showrooms are available to visit five days a week and every measure has been taken to offer a safe and enjoyable visit for all customers. If you would like to visit, please ensure you book in advance. The latest catalogues or a sales representative visit are also available upon request.
Call: 01254 300268 Email: sales@aromatize.co.uk Visit: aromatizetrade.co.uk
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With over 50 Warmies® Plush characters to choose from, the options are endless. Come and visit us at Autumn Fair. 5 - 8 September 2021 6H22-J23
SHOP OUR NEW COLLECTIONS AT www.warmies.co.uk
Warmies® Full Sized Plush
Warmies® Supersized Handwarmers
Warmies® My First
Warmies® Sentiments Bears
Contact us at: E: sales@warmies.co.uk | T: 01933 679 777 It’s no secret that Warmies® are loved around the world.
Warmies® Luxury Wellness
Preview
A brand to watch Mad Beauty
Hall 20, stand B20-C21 2020 wasn't quite the year that any of us were expecting but, after huge growth in the last 12 months through international expansion and new licences, Mad are still following their planned strategy of further growth through 2021 and beyond. Bringing awardwinning inspiration, innovation and fun to their licensed designs and creating an all-year round gifting has been key to their success. Following the huge success of Mad Beauty’s range featuring Disney’s Mickey and Minnie, it was time to update and bring in some new and exciting on-trend products and this has resulted in the launch of an exciting collection featuring Disney’s Mickey & Friends. This new collection was created by Mad's Creative Director Julia Cash, who feels that, now more than ever, friendship and kindness play a huge part in our lives. The collection featuring Mickey & Friends echoes this perfectly as the sensational six represent one of the longest-standing friendships ever. The collection’s design is inspired by the original Mickey & Friends cartoons with vibrant bright colours and bold outlines. It’s all about fun and creativity, which Mad Beauty is known for. The collection consists of 35 pieces of beauty, bath and body essentials, including tubs of Clay Masks, Bath Jellies, Bubble Bath, Lip Balm Tins to Bath Fizzers, Make Up Bags and sheet masks both individually and in a four-piece booklet. ‘We are so proud and excited as a creative team to launch this beautiful Disney Mickey & Friends inspired bath and body collection,’ says Julia Cash, Creative Director/Owner. ‘We have introduced new SS21 gifts such as tubs of Clay Mask and Bath Jellies. Some might think we are brave (Mad even!) creating so many new collections in the last 12 months, but we are confident that the gift industry will flourish and, as a brand, we stay fresh and on-trend whilst maintaining the Mad Beauty, fully compliant, quality to give retailers and shoppers something different, which they expect from us and means they come back time and time again.’
Visit: madbeauty.com
58 Gifts Today
View the entire Museum Collection Range at Autumn Fair, Stand 20A02
SIMPLY GORGEOUS JEWELLERY AND ACCESSORIES X
AUTUMN FAIR STAND 7C56.
Contact - Email: sales@cdheritage.com Tel : 07909 539574 Website www.museumscollection.co.uk
BUY ONLINE ONLINE BUY www.missmilly.co.uk www.missmilly.co.uk or tel: tel: 01905 01905 622 622 509 509 or
FIND FINDUS US
Come and see the UK’s favourite glassware supplier: where quality meets design Autumn Fair, NEC Hall 6 Stand 6B43
www.dandjglassware.co.uk @DandJglassware
New launches throughout 2021!
Tel: 01953 450280
RETAIL INTERVIEW:
Fleming’s Department Store
Rob Fleming
Surviving & thriving Founded back in 1949, Fleming’s Department Store in Monaghan, Ireland, is a third generation independent family run business that boasts a successful gift department. Back open again, and buzzing with customers, we caught up with MD Rob Fleming to discover how the store that employs over 150 people survived the Covid lockdown and why he places such importance on customer service Rob, Fleming’s is a family-owned department store, founded in 1949. What’s the story behind it? My grandfather, Fred Fleming first started the business in 1949 as a small grocer’s shop that grew and expanded over the years. It was passed to my dad in the 1980s and he developed it into the current department store format. More recently it came to me, and we’re very proud to be a third generation independent family-run business. My mum and dad are still very much involved in the business alongside myself and my wife, Sarah, who is our marketing manager.
still involved in the day to day running of the electrical department, however in 2018 I also took on a general management role overseeing an additional five other departments in store. Earlier this year, I officially took over from my dad, Gordon, as Managing Director of the entire business.
You have 16 departments within the store. How important are gifts within the mix? Our gift department has been really important since we introduced it to our offering in the mid 1990s. It has grown over the years from quite a traditional offering to include a more modern and trend-driven range in recent What’s your career journey to years. From new home gifts, this role? engagements and weddings, I joined the business in 2004 s occasions or simply just a as electrical department y lwa treat for themselves, our manager, straight ‘We a above go customers really seem after completing my o r t u e o striv d for e is to love our range of marketing degree. n o y e products and brands. Over the years since and b rs and ther ill w e e m Our gift department is I have nurtured and w o t t s cu eques to’ r well complemented by grown that business a y l rare er say no other departments in store to become one of our ev such as home & interiors, highest performing electrical home appliances, departments in store. I’m fashion, toys, nursery and of 60 Gifts Today
course Christmas. We’re also home to a fabulous in-store café with views across a picturesque lake - so we’re the perfect spot to happily spend a few hours shopping and browsing for gorgeous gifts. Social media shows that customers really enjoy the in-store experience at Fleming’s. Does the company have a particular ethos when it comes to customer service? Customer service is an integral part of our business – my grandfather had very high standards and this ethos more than any has carried through strongly over the generations. We always strive to go above and beyond for our customers and there is rarely a request we will ever say no to. If there is something our customers would like which we don’t have, we will do everything in our power to source it for them. As a local, family-run business it would be impossible to have survived and thrived all of these years without ensuring customer satisfaction. Do you have a typical customer – and does this differ instore and online? As a heritage business with a wide range of departments in store, we have quite a broad
‘We’re v proud t ery o third ge be a ne indepen ration dent family-r un busin ess’
customer base. Typically, it’s primarily females between the ages of 25 and 65 living locally here in Monaghan and its surrounding areas. With the addition of our new eCommerce website this year, we are definitely targeting a slightly younger demographic with our product offering and increasing our geographic reach to customers outside of our local area, with delivery now available across the entire island of Ireland.
making sure the store and our displays look great, sourcing and displaying some fabulous new products and brands in store, online and highlighting via social media.
Did you manage to do any trading during the lockdowns? Yes, fortunately so. Our largest department instore is our flagship SuperValu supermarket that was obviously able to trade the entire time. Our Expert Electrical and Eason departments were able to trade with certain restrictions along with a few other essential sector units in store. Unfortunately, our Gift, Home & Interiors, Fashion, Toymaster & Nursery departments were all closed during any lockdowns.
What’s your mix of merchandise across giftware? The offering in our Giftware Department includes: home decor, home fragrances, jewellery, art works, lifestyle books & fashion accessories. Katie Loxton handbags & accessories, Newbridge Silverware jewellery and Irish home fragrance company Purcell & Woodcock all work really well for us - among many others.
Any unexpected issues during lockdown? Probably just coming up against supply issues with certain products driven by both the pandemic and further exacerbated by Brexit! How was reopening? The most recent reopening here in Ireland in May was after quite a lengthy period from New Year’s Day. It was great to see the place safely open again - with our colleagues back doing what they do best and buzzing with customers again. Have you done anything specific to encourage customers to return to the store after lockdown? We haven’t done anything too specific apart from focusing on the basics: ensuring our customers and colleagues feel safe whilst shopping/working in our store environment,
Who does the gift buying for the store? Teresa Moore is the senior Department Manager and Head Buyer for our gift, home & interiors and fashion departments. She has been with Fleming’s since 2015. How have you found sourcing new products without trade shows? It was definitely a different experience this year with regards sourcing new product. Teresa really missed the creative energy you get from a trade show. Having said that we have still managed to source some lovely new ranges without them, which we are very excited about. Which trade shows do you plan on visiting this year – Covid restrictions permitting of course. We don’t plan on attending any further trade shows this year, we just feel the risk is still too great.
What are you buying/ planning to buy for autumn/winter? We have some really exciting new ranges up our sleeve. There will be more local and Irish-made products among our offering, as well as some new home decor from Denmark.
Plans for rest of 2021? In our Gift Department we’re excited to introduce some new ranges in the coming weeks. In the autumn we’ll be busy building our Christmas shop that is always very popular with our customers. As mentioned earlier, we launched our brand-new eCommerce website this year so a lot of focus will be placed on growing that side of the business too. How important is social media to the store? Social media has been an integral part of helping to grow our business over the past number of years and will continue to be so. We get a lot of feedback and enquiries through our social channels and really love engaging with our customers and the community we’ve worked so hard to grow.
Who does the gift buying for the store? Teresa Moore is the senior Department Manager and Head Buyer for our gift, home & interiors and fashion departments. She has been with Fleming’s since 2015. Gifts Today 61
Product Focus At Home
Hearth Widdop
& home
Named after the Greek goddess of hearth and home, Widdop’s Hestia homeware brand is a unique, contemporary and stylish range of home accessories centred on affordable elegance. The Hestia collection is made up of beautifully straightforward and tasteful designs with fresh, fashion-led styles. Offering contemporary luxury, it is perfect for the modern home with everything from photo frames and clocks to tealight holders and vases – everything you need to make your house a home. From soft furnishings to cute accessories, there is something for everyone.
Products
5 key trends for autumn
1
2 3 4 5
avannah by Hestia is a celebration S of natural materials and craftmanship in contemporary homeware. A neutral, earthy colour palette keeps this look uncomplicated and clean, whilst encouraging focusing on the different textures and materials running throughout. asis by Hestia is a glamorous, O feminine tropical escape. Luxury touches like gold detailing and velvets are combined with soft pinks, greens and tropical motifs to keep things looking fresh and fun. xhale and relax with the gorgeous E soothing Scandinavian inspired trend from Hestia A peaceful colour palette of watery hues is combined with the warmth of natural wood to create a look that is a simple yet inviting. aking inspiration from the British T countryside, crafting and tradition, Wildflower by Hestia is a celebration of nature. Floral and animal motifs appear throughout combined with wood, linens and velvets adding warmth with traditional detailing. L avish by Hestia embraces all-out glamour. Tonal greys, clean lines and sparkling detail spell modern, hotel style sophistication with a glitzy twist. A home range inspired by the Hollywood Golden Era and Art Deco decadence.
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The Hestia Home Fragrance range has been a new addition to the brand, bringing beautiful scents and warming ambiance to your home. From the soothing smells of White Jasmine & Sea Salt to the sweet, crisp fragrance of Citrus Blush & Freesia Petals. With a selection of candles and reed diffusers, in beautifully presented jars, you can fill your home with comforting and homely smells. The collection of lamps in the Hestia ranges bring warmth and cosy vibes to every room. Cosy up and relax in the soft and soothing lighting of a salt lamp or light up the room with some of the larger lamps to bring brightness and style to your home. When making your house a home, it requires putting your own style stamp on the place and making it as cosy as possible. Widdop’s collection of stylish and soft cushions are perfect for any sofa, chair or bed. Whether you want bright and beautiful, or soft and cosy, they have it covered.
Visit: widdop.co.uk
Product Focus At Home
Sig na t u re
style PTMD
PTMD’s AW21 season launch is styled in their signature rebellious luxury aesthetic. Debuting thousands of new designs across their home accessories collection, PTMD’s latest edition is a tribute to the freethinking energy of amorphous design. Amorphous design is a modern tribute to organic design, standing against structure and prohibitions. This aesthetic is characterised by free form, contrast and energetic colour palettes with a future oriented energy. PTMD’s houseplant pot collection is a collision of contrasts. PTMD have been creating unique houseplant pots since 1992. This season, their irresistibly tactile collection embraces utilitarian angled faceted pots in matte neon pastel shades meet polished candied reactive glaze vessels offset amongst minimalist brushed steel planters and metallic reptilian imprinted surfaces. PTMD’s Kaysa houseplant pot collection expresses its beauty through the organic process in which it is crafted. Kaysa’s rich toned olive green polished canvas is lathered with an earthy stone hued lacquer and fired in a dragon kiln to produce a characterful bubbled underglaze. The materials are given freedom to organically determine the path of the glaze that creates an individually unique finish for each of these hand-fired pots. This season PTMD’s lighting design influences draw from botanical and organic origin. They debut pieces formed of natural wicker materials and metal botanical light sculptures. From hanging lamps capturing the effortless elegance of horticulture, to statement table lamps with rough and raw architecture and playful monstera leaf desk lamps. PTMD’s Carlyn collection is a playfully inspired by coral reefs. The Carlyn collection presents a characterful hanging lamp, desk lamp and standing lamp whose iron surfaces have been lightly oxidised in tribute to corals inherent bold colour spectrums. This season, PTMD release their limited edition early spring 2022 pre-order catalogue which has a pre-applied 15% price incentive. Featuring thousands of new interior creations, designed in the spirit of PTMD’s signature eclectic luxury aesthetic, their spring catalogue introduces the playful energy of quirky houseplant pots with personality, effortlessly boho rattan lighting and mirrors and curvaceous candied coloured glass vases. PTMD dried and faux botanical collection has metamorphosed for their AW21 season. In their collection of over 500 dried and faux pieces, this season, they embrace the effortlessly boho energy of dried grasses. Whilst stunning in its natural tone, their collection also displays dyed dried pieces in a vast colour spectrum to enhance or make a statement within a room’s colour palette. PTMD have thousands of unique designs in stock now ready for delivery in 10-14 working days. For all enquiries, please contact The Orangery Collection. 58 Gifts Today
Call: 07872606299 Email: sales@theorangery.org
This year, we celebrate 25 years of Paddywax and launch of our first ever incense collection featuring all of our favourite scents. Haze coloured glass jars feature a glass lid that is also used as the incense holder. Discover more of our original candles and home fragrance products by viewing the full collection online, always designed with in mind.
Paddywax is part of the Designworks Collective brand portfolio and is now available in the UK & Ireland direct from Nashville, Tennessee, USA! Scan the QR code to be transported to our B2B website where you can download the full catalogue and order online or contact our UK Sales Office for more information. +44 (0)1225 9312322 | SALES.UK@DW-COLLECTIVE.COM | WWW.DESIGNWORKSCOLLECTIVE.CO.UK
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Product Focus At Home
Great new
look! Manor House
Manor House have re-branded, with smart and very stylish packaging. Manor House launched their extended offering of 28 home fragrance collections last year and this continues into 2021 with some new additions throughout the year. This is their widest collection ever, and all fragrance collections include their signature Pot Pourri, Scented Botanical Candles, Gift Boxed Candles, Diffusers and Room Sprays along with Drawer Sachets, Liners and more. Weekly they are gaining new stockists, many of whom they met at last year’s Spring Fair or through their strategic advertising. After perusing the new catalogue, they have now come through to ordering - both at home and overseas - which has been great to see. The company pride themselves on producing all their products by hand in Suffolk which comprise: Pot Pourri and Scented Pine Cones, Scented Botanical Candles, Room Diffusers and Sprays, Drawer Liners and Sachets along with Advent Candles, Scented fabric Bags and Cushions. They have relaunched a complete new collection of Luxury Hand Wash and Moisturising Lotions to complement each of their 28 fragrance collections. All products use mainly British packaging and fragrances, the finest botanicals from around the world, recyclable packaging, fabrics, hand woven silks from Suffolk silk mills and ribbons mainly from British companies thus creating a true Handmade in Great Britain Home Fragrance Collection.
Call: 01359 250720 Visit: manorhousehomefragrance.co.uk
Touch of class Global Luxury Brands GLB have some exciting new launches from their key partners. De Rosa have added Roaring Tiger, a prestige limited edition of just 500 at £1100. De Rosa produce timeless, handmade ceramic figurines using platinum, gold and vibrant enamel glazes. The special carving process makes each piece unique. The company have great response to Goebel’s Britto range, and the Cheek to Cheek looks set to be a hit with its vibrant, bold and colourful patterns. The company’s Fitz & Floyd range represents the American dream of Christmas. Their prestige Santa figures look set to be well received for festive shopping.
Call: 01538 80 77 80 Email: srw@glb.uk.com Visit: globalluxurybrands.co.uk 68 Gifts Today
Mezu
Exceptional Silk Flowers
We are delighted to be exhibiting at Glee 14th - 16th September 2021, Hall 7, Stand 7C70 Our stunning silk stems are perfect for all your floral requirements. Mezu is passionate about providing customers with the most realistic silk flowers that can be found in the marketplace. Contact Donna on: 01248 422279 / Email: info@mezusilkflowers.com For our full range of gorgeous stems visit:
www.mezusilkflowers.com
Mezu a proud member of
Product Focus At Home
All about the
bumblebee Marmalade of London
Bring your garden inside with the Marmalade of London Mosney Mill Botanical range. The company are giving 5% of the profits to the Bumblebee Conservation Trust. They launched their autumn/winter range at the Harrogate show. There are currently 24 species of bumblebee resident in Britain. Another, the Shorthaired bumblebee, is being reintroduced after going extinct in 1988. Britain also has two extinct bumblebee species: Cullum’s bumblebee, last recorded on the Berkshire Downs in 1941, and the Apple bumblebee (a short-lived establishment on the south coast in the mid-1800s. Bumblebees are large, furry, and charismatic four-winged insects that belong to an order called the Hymenoptera, which also includes sawflies, ants, and wasps. They are well known for their meandering, ‘bumbling’ flight, and their distinctive buzz, which is where their Latin name Bombus originates. Unlike the Honeybee, bumblebees do not make honey, as they do not need to store food for winter. Instead, the season’s new queens hibernate and emerge to found their own nests in the spring. You can find out about this charity at: bumblebeeconservation.org.
Call: 01242 257509 Email: hello@marmaladeoflondon.com Visit: marmaladeoflondon.com
Did you know? Bumblebees are large, furry, and charismatic four-winged insects that belong to an order called the Hymenoptera, which also includes sawflies, ants, and wasps.
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Product Focus At Home
Handcrafted blooms Mezu Silk Flowers
On the go Mr&Mrs Fragrance It has been a busy few months since the unlocking of retail with the Mr&Mrs Fragrance range. They have several new product introductions launching over the next few months and will share these with their customers and the trade over the coming months. One of the most popular items has been Cesare, the highly fragranced travel buddy. This impulse car fragrance is available in 12 colours and fragrances and is supplied either with a freestanding display or countertop display unit. The unique design allows the car fragrance to hang from a car vent and fills your vehicle with one of the stunning fragrances. You can choose from the vibrant Peppermint to the sophisticated Orange and Sandalwood and the most popular Cedar Wood to the Fresh and clean Portofino. Each product is supplied with a unique fragrance sample tester on the packaging and each product lasts for up to 12 weeks. Cesare will be joined by Gigi a cute and colourful character available in six fragrances and colours. New for September 2021 Gigi is available in a playful range of colours and fragrances including Salted Caramel, Wild Strawberry, Mulberry and Passion Fruit. Cesare has an RRP of £4.99 and Gigi £3.99 and make an ideal impulse purchase or gift and with the dedicated merchandising support will make a unique and impactful display in store. Mr&Mrs Fragrance is distributed in the UK & Ireland by Broughton & Beech Ltd.
Call: 01270 335034 Email: sales@broughtonandbeech.co.uk Visit: mrandmrsfragrance.co.uk 72 Gifts Today
Realistic silk flowers can bring a continued fresh breath of colourful life into your home. They will brighten up a dark corner or last in a very sunny spot that will continually cause fresh flowers to wilt. Heating will not affect silk flowers either. Nothing replaces fresh flowers and we do really love them but there is a time and place for silks, especially now the quality and realism of silk flowers are deceptively lifelike. Silk flowers are in season all year round, are perfect for allergy sufferers and will not wilt or die. They only need an occasional gentle rinse or dust to keep them looking perfect. Decorating a room with faux flowers is an elegant way to elevate your home to everlasting beauty. Although the outlay for quality silk flowers maybe a little more than fresh, the difference is that they last a lifetime.
Call: 07768 605121 or 01248 422279 Email: info@mezusilkflowers.com Visit: mezusilkflowers.com
GIFTS
LIMITED EDITIONS
BEAUTIFUL HOMES
creative solutions for tabletop, gifts and accessories.
Exclusive ranges from Goebel, Fitz and Floyd, Herend, and De Rosa. All brands that have a proven track record with unique yet commercial products, excellent service and delivery. Contact us for further details on these and our other prestige brands. Email: info@glb.uk.com Telephone: 01538 807 780 www.globalluxurybrands.co.uk
Product Focus At Home
Mandarin Arts
A classic tea set from Mandarin Arts with red and white sprigs of blossom on a black background. The shiny red glaze on the inside of the tea cups, the contrasting matte finish on the outside of the tea cups and teapot, together with the bamboo handle, contribute to an aesthetically pleasing purchase or gift with which to enjoy jasmine or green tea (oriental banquet optional). Then there is the famous ‘rice-pattern’ crockery where bowls, cups, plates, saké bottles, spoons and teapots have flower patterns resembling grains of rice are embedded in the porcelain. Explore many more home-focused products from Mandarin Arts, with new stock arriving in August and September.
Call: 01873 812255 Email: info@mandarinarts.co.uk Visit: mandarinarts.co.uk
Celebrating
25 years Paddywax It’s an exciting year for Paddywax, its 25th anniversary year, launching direct to market in the UK & Ireland, this brand is at the top of its game as an innovator in the candles and home fragrance sector and as a pioneer for sustainability driven by purposeful product development and the afterlife of candle and diffuser vessels. For Paddywax, everything starts with the vessel. The designers take inspiration from trends and themes then design the vessel with the sole intention that it can be repurposed at the end of its life. For autumn, gifting comes into focus and Paddywax has an impressive assortment of on-trend pick-up collections that offer sentiment and gifts that keep on giving. Haze is Paddywax’s first incense collection that features some of their most popular fragrances for brand loyalists in a unique, original design coloured glass vessel that works as both storage for the incense and an incense holder for burning – simply turn the lid of the jar over and you have two gifts in one. Available in six scents, these retail for £15 and include 100 incense sticks – the coloured glass vessel can be used for storage after 50 hours of burn time. Another firm favourite for the Insta-generation is their Impressions collection; a range of 163g coloured matte ceramic candles that feature a hand gesture silhouette to share fun, positive sentiment with the people you love. Recently featured in Grazia and Hello! magazines, there are eight fragrances and gestures in total and at £17 RRP these are really great value and a thoughtful gift at any time of the year. One of the hottest viral trends of the year has been homemade twisted taper candles that can be quite messy so Paddywax’s Realm collection of Twisty Tapers in five colours gives you a ready-made solution to catch this trend. Suited perfectly as a gift or for everyday entertaining, these will add a warm flickering candlelight to any mantel, dinner table, or celebration. A pack of two 10in taper candles are dripless, odourless and retail for £10. For a touch of seasonal sentiment, look out for the Spark collection in three beautiful festive fragrances: Wassail & Spice, Balsam & Berries and Tangerine & Clove, each with jolly sentiments and colour soy wax. These 300g candles offer around 70 hours burn time and the tall 20cm glass jars inspired by prayer candles can easily be repurposed around the home after Christmas. Priced at £18 retail, these are great for gifts or self-purchase to fill the home with seasonal scent.
Call: 01225 931322 Email: sales.uk@dw-collective.com Visit: designworkscollective.co.uk 74 Gifts Today
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Trade talk
The return of Autumn Fair, retailer confidence and unexpected hits – it’s all up for discussion this month
Charlotte Gillan
Matthew Shaw
How is retailer confidence?
Why did you make the decision to exhibit at Autumn Fair this year?
MD, Classic Canes
Sales director, Puckator
We are seeing most stockists take a practical approach. Many are placing smaller but more frequent orders to keep their stock fresh and be sure they don’t run out of best-sellers before they feel they can make up the next carriage-paid order. I think everyone appreciates business will be a bit erratic for a while but that the overall trajectory is looking quite hopeful now.
Unexpected hits? Only that, the same as 2020, we have been selling a great number of trekking poles and hiking staffs, we presume to people who have taken up walking over lockdown and discovered what great fun it is as well as excellent exercise. The health benefits of regular walking are well documented, so it’s great to think that our sticks are out there helping people stay well and healthy.
We felt as a company that, as customers haven’t been able to attend a trade fair for almost two years, the show would be busier than usual. Feedback from customers was that they are very keen to source new lines in a trade fair environment.
How is retailer confidence? It feels mixed. Many retailers across the leisure market are having a bumper year, with the increase in staycations, and money in people’s pockets - tourist spots in particular are doing very well. There are some are struggling, though, particularly in central London.
Any unexpected hits this year? Pocket money toys - we haven’t been able to keep up with demand. Plant pots of any kind are still doing well, too.
Richard Wood
Mark Jones
Director, Broughton & Beech
Sales director, University Games and The Lagoon Group Why did you make the decision to exhibit at Autumn Fair this year? Autumn Fair has always been a staple in University Games’ exhibition calendar and we can’t wait to be back there, catching up with our customers and meeting new retailers. It will also be our first Autumn Fair with The Lagoon Group as part of our portfolio so we are looking forward to showcasing all the great games and gifts in the range. Autumn Fair is a great Christmas gift fair and the timing of the event is the perfect lead into the festive season. It allows us to put our best sellers, new arrivals and our entire Lagoon range of games and gifts in front of retailers at a really key time in the buying schedule.
How is retailer confidence?
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Retailers have had to ride a rough storm but, from what we have seen, they have come out fighting and confidence is definitely growing. We are seeing this through the level of enquiries and orders being placed.
How is retailer confidence? It varies a little depending on the store location. Tourist hotspots and garden centres are performing well and the majority seem to be positive, whereas some town centre locations and those areas most impacted by store closures are a little more variable in their confidence.
Any unexpected hits this year? We are so happy with our Mr & Mrs Car Fragrance launch and have trebled our estimates so far. Whilst we were cautious with our forecasts, we are delighted that so many buyers just get it and understand the opportunity.
Lawrence Savage
UK marketing manager, Exacompta-Clairefontine How is retailer confidence? During the early phases of the pandemic we saw a shift with many traditional high street retailers refocusing to develop their digital strategies, which resulted in a massive uplift in online sales. Since bricks and mortar stores have started welcoming back consumers we’ve started to see this trend begin to revert back, albeit at a more graduated rate. Stationery products have always held a unique in-store relationship with consumers, especially when considering items such as premium notebooks, writing instruments and even crafting merchandise, which can be extremely personal to the user. These types of products are often purchased in association with the hobbies or leisure pursuits of the consumer in mind, and so hold a deeper emotional connection with the users’ passions.
Paul Hooker
Commercial director, Joe Davies Why did you make the decision to exhibit at Autumn Fair this year? At Joe Davies we made the decision very early to support our customers and the exhibition organisers by returning to trade shows as soon as they were allowed to take place again. As soon as we heard that Autumn Fair was taking place, attending was never in question for us. The atmosphere at Autumn Fair is always vibrant and this year we are we are expecting an extra special buzz about the show. For many retailers this will be the first exhibition they have been to in 18 months; it’s the perfect place for independent retailers to stock up ready for the busy season
How is retailer confidence? We had a great Home & Gift and it was fantastic to see so many positive independent retailers. The results of the vaccination program combined with consumers returning to stores really seem to have boosted confidence for many.
Sarah Watmore Owner, Miss Milly
Why did you make the decision to exhibit at Autumn Fair this year? Autumn Fair was the show where we launched Miss Milly, literally two days after we started trading, so it holds a special place in our hearts. We can’t wait to be back with a more spacious stand. Trade shows are for finding new customers and the pandemic has given retailers the chance to refresh their ranges; we have certainly had a great level of enquiries during 2021. And the co-location with Moda should bring some new faces to the party.
How is retailer confidence? It’s definitely on the up. All the customers I’ve spoken to recently are experiencing increased footfall, and jewellery and fashion, which were very slow to restart, are picking up nicely. Shopping locally and holidaying in the UK are spearheading the rise and everybody is hoping this will result in a change of habits for the long term.
Any unexpected hits this year? Earrings were big news during lockdown as ‘top half smart’ ruled the video meets and their popularity has carried on; we are selling far more earrings than before.
Stationery Focus Mosney Mill
Introductory offers as Mosney Mill launches ‘quintessentially British’ stationery range. Mosney Mill’s artist Emma Sutton is pleased to announce the launch of an exciting range of stationery to complement her existing range of high-quality textiles and ceramics. Emma’s quintessentially British designs are now featured on UK manufactured FSC accredited A6 Notebooks and Magnetic Shopping List retailing at £3.50 and £4.95 respectively providing an excellent ‘pick up’ for your customers as a treat for themselves or a gift for another. The A6 notebooks contain 90 lined pages with a substantial card cover featuring one of eight designs from Emma ranging from their ever-popular Bee and Flower, Blue Tit on Blossom and Seagulls to new designs of Robins in Hedgerows and Pheasants on a navy background. These notebooks, sold in units of six of one design, are therefore both stylish and practical fitting in a pocket or handbag with ease.
Alongside the Notebooks are a range of Magnet Shopping Lists inspired by the flora and fauna of the Mosney Land. Each pad has a substantial magnetic attached to it whilst inside the pages replicate the beautiful designs found on the cover. Their ever-popular plantable Seed Card range now features 20 hand illustrated unique designs. Printed on superb quality, 210 gsm card, the cards are biodegradable and supplied in units of six of one design with a Kraft envelope and compostable packaging. Planting the card produces its own mini meadow to attract bees and pollinators to gardens.
Call: 01772 822525 Visit: mosneymilltrade.com
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instyle
Back in the saddle
4 days of Moda
To align with Autumn Fair at the NEC Birmingham, Moda will now open its doors on 5-8 September 2021 allowing buyers to experience the all-encompassing fashion and retail destination for a whole extra day, with a line-up of exclusive and new brands including Fly London, Hukka Design, Jayley Collection, and Godske, and a headline partnership with the British Footwear Association. The all-new Moda will offer thousands of trend-forward collections across fashion, footwear, jewellery, and accessories, delivering key crossover buying opportunities, additional footfall, and a host of new retailers. Known as the National Footwear Show, Moda is one of the UK’s longest standing fashion trade shows and an essential hub for creativity, collaboration and trading within the fashion community. Simon Lau, Event Director, Moda says: ‘Footwear, fashion, and apparel have spearheaded the strong growth seen in UK retail the past two months with April up 69% according to the Office of National Statistics, so we’re delighted that Moda will form part of a wider fashion destination offering access to exclusive brands and the latest collections, a greater variety of products, inspiring trends and incomparable crossover buying opportunities.’
Visit: moda-uk.co.uk 78 Gifts Today
Equestrian-themed walking sticks are the tip of the day from Classic Canes. MD Charlotte Gillan explains: ‘Every autumn we see equestrian-themed fashions popping up and our sales of horse-print walking sticks responds accordingly. ‘This year, we have our Stubbs’ Whistlejacket walking sticks and folding canes, produced under licence from the National Gallery, and our Horses and Ponies of Great Britain and Ireland folding cane, which features recognisable native breeds from the Shire Horse to the Shetland Pony in appealing autumnal shades.’ Not a horse lover? Never fear: Classic Canes stocks over 700 models to suit all tastes and interests so there is a suitable stick for everyone.
Call: 01460 75686 | Email: info@classiccanes.co.uk Visit: classiccanes.co.uk
Lime Tree Design at Top Drawer The company work with artisans in Jaipur, creating hand printed fabrics with eco dyes. They’re known for their tunics, pyjamas, kimonos and bandanas in summer florals and graphic prints. They’re launching a new collection of cotton block print lounge wear at Top Drawer, made using their own textiles. They’ll also be bringing their timeless range of hand created, British designed jewellery and locket collections along with some newer designs like their enamel pendants in rich colours and mini stud earrings. New for their lavender range are their hearts, always in Liberty of London Tana Lawn, joining their boxes of fish and bird lavender drawer sachets. Alongside their ever-popular box of three Liberty hankies, they are also launching their new single boxed Tana Lawn hankies, the perfect pick-up gift.
Call: Kate Barker on 01636 894043 Email: studio@limetreecollection.com Visit: limetreecollection.com
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instyle
Spotted!
Katie Loxton continues to create affordable, high-quality items that aim to add a bit of luxury to everyday life, with a carefully curated collection of vegan leather bags, accessories and gifts. The new AW21 collections stay true to their core values; easy-wear, effortless and refined. With the new season comes the introduction of luxe tonal colour-ways - think earthy, warm and rich hues - that have been applied across their classic but aspirational bestsellers and new season styles. • Casey collection. Consisting of timeless crossbody bags, shoulder bags and cute matching purses, the collection features minimal yet super chic details - like the elevated gold-tone hardware - meaning these pieces will slot easily into an everyday wardrobe. A handful of the collection is also part of the new Sustainable Style selection, created using RPET-based PU and RPET polyester lining – made by using plastic bottles. • Cara collection. These new styles take inspiration from bestselling shapes, but have an added, fun modern twist by way of mock-croc textures and chic structured shapes.
Call: 01295 250879 | Email: enquiries@katieloxton.com | Visit: wholesale.katieloxton.com
So sentimental The Joma Jewellery AW21 collection is, as always, full of meaning and sentiment. The new season sees the bestselling ‘A Little’ bracelets at the heart, with new sweet styles and updated customer favourites present to mark life’s little (and big!) moments. Joma have introduced some new necklace styles for AW21, extending their much-loved Birthstone range to feature necklaces. Each of the twelve necklaces features a real semi-precious gemstone, which perfectly represents the character traits of the birthday girl.
Trend
Another new-in necklace is Joma’s selection of pretty Positivity Pendants. Made with sentiment at the heart, these gorgeous gold-plated pieces have an innovative spinning function so the recipient can decide what side of the disc she wants to show off; the coloured stone side, or the sweet engraved sentiment side.
‘Tis the season to gift!
The Joma Christmas collection features cute, collectable styles that were made to be gifted. Boxed earrings sets or the festive ‘A Littles’, Joma have something that will see that special someone celebrate Christmas in style.
Call: 01295 250879 Email: enquiries@jomajewellery.com Visit: wholesale.jomajewellery.com
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Ab fab! A muted tan camera bag that makes a lovely everyday handbag or evening clutch. Made from faux leather and features a stylish stamped heel with the words ‘Fabulous Darling’ written on the front.
sophieallport.com/pages/trade
Over 700 models in stock. Please contact us for a trade catalogue: Tel 01460 75686 www.classiccanes.co.uk
Bumpsadaisy We love these fun baby leggings, designed with active children in mind. Extremely stretchy comfortable clothing - a great choice for little ones.
wholesale.bladeandrose.co.uk
Spotted! Equilibrium Love Locks The Equilibrium collection of jewellery and fashion accessories from Joe Davies has fast become the UK’s top selling range for independent retailers. Beautifully packaged, great quality, and affordable pricing makes this range so very special. Check out the romantic Love Locks Collection from Joe Davies - tiny keys and padlocks adorned with sparkling diamantes.
joedavies.co.uk
Gifts Today
RETAILERS’ PANEL
The latest members of our Panel – key gift shop owners – introduce their businesses and tell us what makes them so special. This month both shops are called The Gift Box – one in Derry, Northern Ireland, and the other near Chester
The Gift Box Derry, Northern Ireland What’s the story behind your role in the shop? I am assistant manager and merchandiser and work along side my aunt Catherine Kearney (pictured right with Danielle) who
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is business owner and manager. The Gift Box opened in 1994. I’ve helped in the business since I was 14. I worked in Miss Selfridge for eight years and came to the Gift Box after studying a Business with Retail course. How did you cope during the three lockdowns?
What trade shows do you visit? We have visited Home & Gift, Autumn Fair and Spring Fair for years as well as Showcase Ireland. They’re where we’ve found the majority of our brands and also we’ve also discovered companies to design bespoke gifts for us.
The government’s help was definitely needed and necessary. It was very tough but we ended The government’s help was definitely up driving needed and necessary. It was very tough sales through Instagram and but we ended up driving sales through Facebook – Instagram and Facebook – we’d be lost we’d be lost without social media and try to post at without social least three times a week media and try to post at least three times a week. We set up a For fashion, we stock Jayley, Nour website during lockdown and hope London jewellery, Powder, Sarah to continue to increase our sales Tempest, Owen Barry and House and online presence as well as of Disaster. Coach House does expanding our range of brands. well for dining, Christmas and household, and we also stock Joe How was reopening? Davies, Richard Lang, East of India, It was quiet to start with but has Widdop & Co, Deva Designs and started to pick up. We’ve noticed a Heaven Sends. huge increase in people shopping We offer WJ Sampson & locally which is amazing as we rely on Co, Artbene, Shannonbridge tourists during the summer season. Pottery, Bog Buddies, Doudou Et Compagnie, Pebblechild and What’s the mix of merchandise Jellycat. We designed our own in store?
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Danielle Kearney
range of Derry gifts with Southfield Ltd just before lockdown and it has been an amazing seller, as people have missed home. Typical customer? Women ranging from the age of 25-70, although we have had an increase in younger customers recently. We get male customers at Christmas and shopping for occasions. Average spend? The average has increased. We’re getting more £50 sales these days – it would have been £20 previously. How have you been sourcing new products recently? We have been Googling wholesale for products we would like to stock as well as looking on Instagram and through Faire.
How does your online offering do?
The Gift Box Hoole, near Chester The Gift Box opened in 2010. How did this come about? I worked here as a Saturday girl from the age of 14 until I went off to university to study Fashion design at Manchester Metropolitan university. I then worked as a designer in the high street fashion industry for a few years before deciding it wasn’t for me. I came to help out at the shop while I decided what to do. The previous owners had lost interest in it by then and it was very run down. They parted ways with the business and that’s when I decided I could re-invent the shop and create my vision. I started the business in 2010 when I was just 25 and have never looked back. How did you cope during the three lockdowns? Being told had to close my business was a really scary time. It’s my pride and joy and I’m always there so I was so worried and anxious about how I would keep the business going. The first lockdown was hard, going from being a really busy person to not being allowed to work was difficult to adapt to. I am really lucky to have such wonderful loyal and supportive customers who continued to contact me and buy via Click & Collect when we were allowed
to do this in the second and third lockdowns. This kept me busy and focused, too. The government support I have received has been fantastic, I really can’t complain at all. It really helped to pay all the bills that continued to roll in even though we I love to stock beautiful things and were closed. often receive lovely comments How was reopening? about what a fantastic range of I was so excited but also nervous. products I sell. This includes ranges It was so good to see everyone from Richard Lang, Gisella Graham, Katie Loxton/Joma Jewellery, Being told had to Powder and East of India. I also sell children’s gifts and toys close my business and one of my main suppliers is Jellycat. House of Marbles also does was a really scary great. I have lots of greetings cards from time. It’s my pride suppliers such as Woodmansterne, Ling design, Caroline Gardner, and joy and I’m Pigment Productions, Cherry Orchard Publishing and Tracks always there so I Publishing. I also like to stock was so worried and greetings cards from small independent artists and have a few anxious about how ranges from local artists in store, too. I would keep the I also do helium balloons for special occasions and am often very business going busy with orders - especially on a Saturday morning! again and I feel that my customers Typical customer? felt safer coming in to my shop Houses surround my shop, so I get than they did to go into larger a real mix of people coming in. From stores in the city centre. It felt so good to be busy and in my routine workmen nipping in for a quick present for their partner’s birthday to again. I’ve really gone for it with little old ladies buying their birthday the shop since re-opening and cards. I love the diversity and that you spruced things up and got lots of never know what the next challenge lovely new stock in. will be when someone walks in and What’s the mix of merchandise says ‘have you got…?’ in store?
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Sophie Bryant
I did well online during the lockdowns but since customers have returned to store it has gone quieter. I think my customers love to see and feel what they are buying or often just pop in for a browse and stumble across something they love. How important is social media to your business? It really helps to engage customers with my store. I try and post every day especially on Instagram stories with little snippets of my day, what new stock is arriving and generally anything that’s current. Are you planning to visit any of the upcoming trade shows? Not this year, but I hope to in 2022. I continue to do my research in other ways to find new and interesting suppliers. I often spend my day off scouting out what other stores have in and researching for new ideas for displays as well as suppliers.
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Preview
‘2021 promises to be our best event yet!’ As the only exhibition dedicated to the paper and writing instruments industry, London Stationery Show is set to open its doors again after two and a half years. We caught up with event director Alex Butler to discover learn more
Alex Butler, event director
Alex, what’s your career journey to becoming London Stationery Show event director? Much of my 13-year career has been spent organising wedding and bridal exhibitions. Starting as a sales executive on The National Wedding Shows, I progressed to event director some years later. I’ve always loved beautiful notebooks, so I’m now really enjoying getting to know the people behind the brands I’ve coveted as a bona-fide stationery addict. After speaking to so many throughout lockdown, I’m counting down the days until I can finally meet face-to-face with the amazing suppliers participating at this year’s London Stationery Show. It’s fantastic the show’s now confirmed to run 5-6 October. How did you eventually settle on this date?
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We conducted several focus groups with suppliers and buyers to understand the best time to host the exhibition. The overwhelming response from both groups was that ‘the show must go on!’ Buyers have missed those chance discoveries that only come from walking the aisles at an exhibition, and everyone seems eager to close their laptops and do business faceto-face once again. Why do you feel it’s so important the show runs? It’s been two and a half years since our industry came together. Following what can only be described as the most challenging of times, buyers will once again be able to experience the fresh thinking and timeless appeal of our ever resilient, designled industry. The importance of stationery, from everyday essentials, through to carefully chosen gifts, has never been so
evident. The variety of products on display reflects the widespread consumer appeal and offers buyers a depth of product choice from well-known brands to independent start-ups. What makes London Stationery Show so different to other shows in the buying calendar? London Stationery Show is the only exhibition dedicated to the paper and writing instruments industry. Whilst other B2B trade exhibitions take a broader approach, London Stationery Show is highly targeted. With thousands of stationery and gift products to complement existing ranges in store or online, London Stationery Show is the must-attend attend event for stationery and gift buyers. Will you be offering talks, workshops, and trend analysis at this year’s show?
London Stationery Show will be packed with all the latest industry news and trends designed to entertain, inspire, and educate: The Trends Hub, curated by Sally Angharad, will focus on future global consumer and design trends and how they will impact stationery buying choices. Retailers will be able to try before they buy in the free to attend Creative Matters workshops, and Retail Matters will help with all aspects of running a successful business through live talks with leading industry professionals and peers. Catherine Erdly, founder of Resilient Retail Club, will also be on hand with tailored one-to-one advice in The Resilient Retail Clinic. Even though restrictions will be lifted, do you plan on having any specific safety measures in place at the show? We are continually monitoring government and industry guidelines relating to Covid-secure events. Further details on what measures will be in place at the show will be available shortly via stationeryshow.co.uk. Rest
assured we will be working to ensure everyone’s safety is the number one priority at all times. What names – both familiar and new – can you confirm will be running at the show? Some of stationery’s best loved brands are returning, including Avery, CC Global, Cre8 Tapes, edding, Esterbrook, Exacompta, Frisk, Hahnemühle, Kaweco, Leuchtturm, Makers Cabinet, Manuscript Pen, Montegrappa, Parafernalia, Pentel, Pukka Pads, Royal Talens, Semikolon, Shaeffer, Silvine, Snopake, Stabilo, Staedtler, Ultratape, uni-ball and Zebra Pen. There’s also an impressive line-up of new brands, including Accent Manufacturing, Artcadia, Bark & Rock, Carioca, Goldbuch, London Block By Block, Modena by Railex, Pixie Crew, Robert Fredrick, Storigraphic, Retro 51, Starpak, Willsow and Yop & Tom amongst many others. Do you have plans to boost the show’s online content? Stationery365 is an exciting new online platform connecting
When will the 2022 edition run? London Stationery Show will run from 17-18 May 2022 at the Business Design Centre. buyers with the leading stationery manufacturers and suppliers, all year round. We know that product launches are no longer limited to one specific time of year, so Stationery365 will allow buyers to expand their product ranges outside of traditional exhibition seasons. We’re working closely with stationery retailers as we develop our digital offering, and the feedback we’ve had from our audience is that they have struggled to find genuine stationery products on the existing
mixed-sector platforms as online has become part of the buying process. With its targeted supplier list, Stationery365 solves that problem. The platform is being launched at London Stationery Show so watch this space. Anything else you’d like to share? Make sure you register today for your free ticket to London Stationery Show on 5-6 October 2021. 2021 promises to be our best event yet!
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Preview London Stationery Show
Innovative
& eco Lawrence Savage, Marketing Manager at ExaClair, says the show is a chance to demonstrate the company’s core values:
‘We’re excited to be exhibiting at the London Stationery Show once again. It gives us the opportunity to highlight our latest product releases and demonstrate the progress we have made in our efforts to manufacture more innovative and sustainable products, whilst upholding our high standards in quality and design.’
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ExaClair Stand M501 ExaClair Limited, the UK supplier of the Exacompta, Clairefontaine, G. Lalo, Herbin, Brause, Décopatch, Avenue Mandarine and Rhodia brands is showcasing an exciting range of innovative, ecologically aware products at this year’s London Stationery Show, 5-6 October 2021. The Exacompta Forever Young range is a stylish assortment of brightly coloured, Blue Angel certified desk accessories, which are made from 100% recycled postconsumer plastic waste. These will be displayed alongside a selection of Eterneco items, which offer a sustainable and nature inspired choice for filing, desktop accessories and luggage. Other Exacompta filing and organisation products on show include the expanding Aquarel range that incorporates a selection of five attractive, on-trend pastel colours to suit the modern home and office environment. In addition to the choice of ExaScreen and other PPE/safety signage, the collection of Clean’Safe filing, desktop accessories and notebooks will also be presented. These feature organic antimicrobial additives within the materials, giving extra protection by eliminating bacteria, viruses, mould and fungi by more than 99.9%. From Rhodia, the newly released selection of portfolio products will be on display together with the latest notebook and Goalbook colour variations, as well as the most recent Clairefontaine stationery collections. These include the unique Kenzo Takada and Quintessence designs, plus the latest additions to the best-selling Neo Deco collection. Last year marked the anniversaries of two iconic brands; the first centenary of G. Lalo and 350 successful years of Herbin. To commemorate these historic milestones, a range of limited edition items, including vintage Herbin wax capped bottles and Art Deco inspired G. Lalo correspondence sets, were launched and these will be available on the stand. There will also be a focus on the ever-growing selection of Clairefontaine fine art and crafting products, with their latest extensions to the best-selling Paint’ON and Goldline watercolour pad ranges on display, in addition to the recently launched Pastel Revolution fixative. As well as the successful Décopatch brand, a wide choice of new Clairefontaine origami packs, plus the popular florist crepe paper will also be present.
Call: 01553 696600 Email: sales@exaclair.co.uk Visit: exaclairlimited.com
extra ordinary since 1934 Premium quality notebooks in a wide range of colours with super smooth 90gsm paper Contact us today for more details of the full Rhodia range: www.exaclairlimited.com • enquiries@exaclair.co.uk • 01553 696600
New products
Excellent Enesco
Renowned for its exclusive, innovative and award-winning gift, toys and collectables, Enesco has plenty of new ranges to discover this season Visit: enesco.co.uk
For the first time, fans of Winnie the Pooh can get their paws on a new exciting range of collectables including the silly old bear
95 years of Disney’s Winnie the Pooh To help fans of Winnie the Pooh mark the occasion, Enesco has a whole host of figurines for your customers to buy from across a wide range of best-loved brands, including Disney Britto, Enchanting Disney, and the world-renowned Disney Traditions by Jim Shore. Across the collections there are figurines, decorative waterballs, hanging decorations, trinket boxes, baby bibs, photo frames, festive stockings and more.
Plus for the first time, fans of Winnie the Pooh can get their paws on a new exciting range of collectables including the silly old bear, thanks to the launch of a brand new licensed offering. Disney Facets features beautiful figurines of superb quality, bringing the world’s most iconic and beloved characters to life - including Pooh Bear - through stunning ‘gem cut’ sculptures. With the look of cut crystal at a fraction of the cost, the Winnie the Pooh multi-faceted high-grade acrylic figure sparkles and shines with show-stopping detail – just perfect for his big birthday!
New ‘gem cut’ Disney Facets collection New and exclusive to Enesco, the contemporary gift retailer is launching a brand new licensed offering from Disney that is sure to excite fans of the film studio. Disney Facets features beautiful figurines of superb quality, bringing the world’s most iconic and beloved characters to life, through stunning ‘gem cut’ sculptures. With the look of cut crystal at a fraction of the cost, these multifaceted high-grade acrylic figures sparkle and shine with show-stopping detail.
Game of Thrones To celebrate the 10th anniversary of HBO’s smash hit TV series, Enesco has unveiled a new collection of must-have decorative figurines from Department 56. Set to be a firm favourite with fans of the show across the UK, the collection features seven pieces, to help bring a little bit of the epic fantasy drama back into your customers’ homes. Including characters from the show such as Jon Snow and the Night King, the collection also sees a series of villages akin to the different sets on the small screen, including Winterfell Castle and Castle Black. The village pieces have been designed to scale with the original set pieces and are mains operated, so the windows light up when plugged in, helping to bring the scene to life. Paired with some of the figurines, collectors can re-create some of their favourite moments from the smash hit TV series in their own homes.
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‘Each figurine is inspired by the beloved characters form the film series, using the hugely popular Japanese ‘Chibi’ style’
A Nightmare Before Christmas Characters launching within this collection include everyone’s favourite little blue alien, Stitch, Peter Pan’s fairy sidekick, Tinker Bell, that silly old bear stuffed with honey, Winnie the Pooh, and of course, the main man himself, Mickey Mouse.
Third series of Harry Potter charm figurines Each figurine is inspired by the beloved characters from the film series, using the hugely popular Japanese ‘Chibi’ style. Short in stature with exaggerated features, the Harry Potter charm figurines included in series three showcase Harry Potter, Draco Malfoy, Ginny Weasley and Dobby the House Elf, as your customers have never seen before. Ginny and Dobby are perched on a pile of spell books in front of a cauldron as if ready to cast a magical charm. Ginny’s books are red, signifying her belonging to Gryffindor – the house at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. New for 2021, some characters can be found in a variation of poses, including ‘Harry on a Broom’ and ‘Draco on a Broom.’ Both wizards are seen perched on a broom as if about to take flight.
Honeydukes Sweet Shop In its growing collection from Department 56, Enesco presents an incredibly lifelike collectors’ piece into its Harry Potter Village range. Following on from the huge success that was the Hogwarts Great Hall and Tower and Gringotts Bank, the new Honeydukes Sweet Shop is set to be the next must-have piece. The sweet shop has been crafted precisely to create an unbelievable recreation for fans of the Harry Potter films. Standing at 22cm tall and fitted with LED lights that are powered with a UK adaptor, Honeydukes Sweet Shop is truly spellbinding when it gently glows.
Harry Potter Village As well as Honeydukes Sweet Shop, other new pieces into the collection include figurines depicting characters from the film franchise in some of their best-loved scenes, such as Neville and Runaway Lollipop Figurine, A Lively Bludger Figurine, and Harry and Ron in a Boat Figurine. Other to-scale new launches into the Harry Potter Village by Department 56 also include Quality Quidditch Supplies and The Boathouse.
A hauntingly good collection, your customers are in for a spooktacular treat this Halloween, with an evergrowing range of Nightmare Before Christmas collectables, homewares and decorative figurines. Help fans of Tim Burton’s box office hit get their gnarly-boned fingers on these frightfully fantastic pieces, featuring Jack Skellington, Sally his corpse bride, Zero the ghost dog and of course the villain of the piece, Oogie Boogie, across a range of exciting and innovative products. For something a little bit spooky, Enesco’s new levitating figurines from Grand Jester Studios conjure up the sense of a Halloween haunting. The first of its kind from Disney, the Jack Playing Fetch with Zero Levitation Figurine sees the Pumpkin King playing with his trusty friend Zero, who magnetically hovers when placed under the tree branch – a spooktacular example of technology and storytelling coming together to make a phenomenal collectable.
‘Best-loved scenes, such as Neville and Runaway Lollipop Figurine, A Lively Bludger Figurine, and Harry and Ron in a Boat Figurine’
New products
Personalised Christmas gifts & more
Personalised Memento Company PMC have a website full of new and exciting products for AW21 to celebrate all things festive. With a gift for every recipient available, their range boasts both choice and value, which includes new personalised decorations, Christmas homeware, sacks and stockings and also their exciting new personalised range of baubles in wood. Their popular licensed ranges for Christmas include Me to You, Tiny Tatty Teddy, Boofle and The Snowman and the Snowdog. Personalised Christmas gifts for pets This new plush stocking is made from high quality velvet, with a soft plush white cuff and features a hoop on the top to enable the stocking to be hung. Personalised Christmas gifts for My First Christmas This beautiful wooden star, complete with string is a colourful additon to any Christmas tree. Finished in White wood this is a contemporary design, made special with a name and year of birth. Personalised gifts for In Loving Memory at Christmas Commemorate a loved one with Personalised Memento Company’s new personalised resin graveside memorial book. A beautiful design and sentiment, ‘robins appear when loved ones are near’, is made extra personal with a name and your own special message. PMC provides retailers with a complete, easy to use and reliable dropship service of gifts, offering an industry leading experience for customers. Backed up by a robust infrastructure, PMC use extensive technologies, innovation and skilled employees to launch to market a huge range of exciting products at a competitive price without a compromise on quality. PMC have been personalising gifts for nearly 18 years and are leading the industry as the personalisation, production and drop shipping service. With huge investments into production capabilities and operations, they are able to adapt effortlessly to seasonal peak demand. This reliable service ensures that orders are fulfilled quickly and accurately, leading to an outstanding customer experience. What’s more, there are many ways to make personalised gifts work for your business. You can get started with a handful of products on your website or completely integrate multiple categories. There are options for personalisation ‘preview’ meaning you can convert even more sales by the customer adding their personalised message and then hitting the preview button to see their unique gift come to life. PMC at home PMC’s unique range of home products are ideal as gifts for family, friends or even just a treat for yourself. Personalised homewares from PMC include clocks, hanging decorations, ornaments, storage boxes, lighting, vases, tableware and cushion covers. Every item is individually personalised to order and drop shipped direct to the customer, meaning you don’t any hold stock. Photo frames are the staple of personalised gifts and PMC has nearly 400 personalised photo frames in a choice of sizes from 2”x3” right up to 10”x8”. The majority of PMC’s photo frames are personalised and despatched for next day delivery.
Email: sales@personalisedmemento.co.uk Visit: personalisedmemento.co.uk Instagram: @personalisedmemento 90 Gifts Today
. . . g n i c u d Intro
Designworks Ink is part of the Designworks Collective brand portfolio and is now available in the UK & Ireland direct from Nashville, Tennessee! Scan the QR code to be transported to our B2B website where you can download the full catalogue and order online or contact our UK Sales Office for more information. +44 (0)1225 9312322 | SALES.UK@DW-COLLECTIVE.COM | WWW.DESIGNWORKSCOLLECTIVE.CO.UK
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New products
Men’s gifts
Gentlemen’s Hardware
Gentlemen’s Hardware is the go-to brand for men’s gifting and probably best known for its clever multi-tools and lifestyle gifts for adventure seekers who enjoy the great outdoors. They have 150 SKUs of gifts for men in the collection that include grooming & personal care, tech essentials, kitchen & barware, stationery and home decor alongside their famous multi-tools and outdoor goods. For this season the brand is opening up new product categories of home fragrance and games that focus on bringing everyone together and bringing the outdoors, indoors. To evoke the senses and create the right atmosphere, the eight SKU collection of scented soy wax candles does just that by bringing deep earthy aromas with woody accents and sweet undertones of the great outdoors right into the home. The collection is divided by two product formats: 227g recycled amber glass jars with black screw on lid and 198g three-wick concrete candles, each with their own natural fragrance blend including Bergamot & Cedar, Mountain Sage and Black Oak. Priced at £18 RRP for the Jar Candles and £22 RRP for the Concrete Candles, the collection is complemented by No. 594 Perfect Match Gold Safety Matches that come in a glass jar and make a great stocking filler at £10 RRP. With Gentlemen’s Hardware now part of the Designworks Collective family of brands, they’ve used all their Paddywax candle making know-how to ensure these candles can be reused and repurposed in the home long after the soy wax has gone. Simply pop the vessel in the freezer overnight and then gently remove the wax next day to have either a concrete pot or an amber glass jar that could be used to plant a succulent or for storage. With the mood and ambiance set, simply gather friends and family to enjoy the Games Supply capsule of nostalgic games which is a natural progression to the brand’s successful line of on-the-go campfire games. This six SKU collection includes Chinese Checkers, Dominoes, Push Your Luck Dice Game, Texas Hold ‘Em Poker Set, Tumbling Blocks and a Casino Night set with everything you need to host your own casino night and get all the thrill of Roulette, Blackjack and Poker from the comfort of their own home. Double Six Dominoes and Push Your Luck Dice Games are packaged in premium keepsake storage tins and priced at £14 RRP.
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Call: 01225 931322 | Email: sales.uk@dw-collective.com Visit: designworkscollective.co.uk
One-stop shop Designworks Ink
Stationery and lifestyle gift brand Designworks Ink is a onestop-shop for autumn gifting – their 140 SKU new collection includes eco-friendly stocking fillers, jigsaw puzzles, dated diaries, premium notebooks, sassy mugs, manicure sets and even cocktail shakers to get the party started. New for this season are six beautiful 1000-piece Jig-Time jigsaw puzzles that are gold foil stamped and uniquely packaged in gift tubes with gold lids and it’s this gilding detail throughout that elevates the product and creates a luxe, premium feel for just £20 RRP. In a world of chaos, the celestial theme collection has never been so popular as consumers look to the stars and a mystical life for answers. The 10 SKU assortment is an evergreen capsule but great for seasonal gifts with prices starting from £5 RRP for the ‘Live by The Sun, Love By The Moon’ cloth notepad and £8 RRP for beautifully illustrated Celestial Heavens playing cards. The showstopper stocking-fillers are the It’s Written In The Stars Journal and perfectly paired Celestial Heavens Pencil Set that feature six graphite wood pencils for moonlight dancers and star romancers. Another favourite for seasonal gifting is the Vintage Sass collection that is guaranteed to put a smile on yours and the recipient’s face. A cute menagerie of notebooks, journals and stacking mugs are the perfect combination of vintage art and sassy sentiments. Look out for the hard back, soft touch cover journals that retail for £14 - 240 pages of acid-free paper, printed with soy inks, these are hand sewn and they feature informational pages and perpetual dating so your notebook will double up as an agenda. Available in nine different phrases and illustrations, there’s a journal for every character you know! Eco-friendly straw sets and cutlery sets are trending high and have also been well-backed by customers for AW21 gifting, the fun tone of voice transforms these lines from just purely functional everyday items to really great gifts. Compact, re-usable, Portable Straw Sets are as cute as they are clever - they come in five different ‘Strawsome’ options and are complemented by four Portable Flatware Sets and four Stainless Steel Straw Sets that come in on-the-go wheat straw storage cases.
Call: 01225 931322 | Email: sales.uk@dw-collective.com Visit: designworkscollective.co.uk
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New products
Something for the home Something Different
Animal Families ornaments Something Different’s popular Animal Families products have been bestsellers for years and show no signs of slowing down thanks to their timeless appeal. Ethically sourced and high quality, these ornaments feature much-loved animals like rabbits, penguins, monkeys and elephants.
Bee Happy collection Wholesome and charming, Something Different’s Bee Happy collection features sentimental gifts suitable for every occasion. Discover mugs for couples, wax melt gift sets, a colourful bee house and much-loved hanging sentiment signs.
Oil burners From classic white to exclusive seasonal designs and trending electric burner, Something Different have over 200 different styles of oil burners available plus eco friendly soy wax melts and high quality fragrance oil in a large variety of fragrances
Tree of Life coasters Perfect for the contemporary home, products made from natural materials are a rising trend. The Tree of Life represents growth and rebirth
Large circular outdoor mirror Bring the inside out with beautiful decorative pieces that can be displayed outside to maximise living space.
Call: 01792 940 288 Live Chat on website 8am to 7pm Monday to Friday Visit: somethingdifferentwholesale.co.uk
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Sustainable style
Museums & Galleries Museums & Galleries Ltd’s historic mission is to find the best and most attractive designs from museums, galleries, designers and artists around the world, and present them on commercial products with contemporary appeal. Over the last few years, Museums & Galleries has developed its traditional base of paper-based products into other media, most recently textiles. Starting with printed cotton pencil cases, this year M&G introduced premium cotton printed tote bags and coordinating large zipped pouch bags. The products feature brilliant designs from the V&A, British Museum, Tate, and Natural History Museum and make attractive gifts or self-purchases. Working with an incrementally more complex global supply chain, the company has reviewed its obligations towards sustainability in all its operations. This is an ongoing, progressive business-wide effort to more sustainable product development and reducing Museums & Galleries’ environmental impact. Museums & Galleries is a Sedex registered company (Sedex is committed to more sustainable and ethical global supply chains). Museums & Galleries’ HQ in Corby receives gas and electricity from a green supplier. Museums & Galleries recycles existing packaging and old products as packing material for deliveries (they do not buy in packing material). The company has also switched to bio-tape to replace plastic tape for all packaging. Recycling takes place across the business in the offices, warehouse and design studio. With this ethos as inspiration, all of Museums & Galleries’ textile products are Global Organic Textile Standard certified organic cotton.
Call: 01373 462165 Email: sales@mgml.co. Visit: museumsgalleries.co.uk
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