Gifts Today December 2020 by Lema Publishing

Gifts Today Month: November/December 2020 Issue: 1 Volume: 32

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Gifts Today November/December 2020

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Contents Regulars 5

Message from the editor

News

10 Exhibition news 20 Cover Story Marmalade of London We check out our cover star’s latest collection of nature-inspired candles and catch up with founder Piers Flook about the company’s plans for the future

Retail 18 Spirals Annette Ritchie shares her advice on retail after 31-years in business and what makes her Sheffield store a unique place to shop

Gifts Today team

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22 Retailers’ Panel Introducing the latest members of our Panel – key gift shop owners around the UK

Editor

Sally Norton sally@lemapublishing.co.uk

54 Crocodile

Supporting Editor

Mark Mitchell explains why he has made the decision to go plastic free in his Cirencester store

Rachel King rachel@lemapublishing.co.uk

Advertisement Manager

58 Trade Talk

Mark Horsnell markh@lemapublishing.co.uk

Leading figures in the gift industry talk fragranced gifts, trends and the future

Layout/Design

Rick Vickers rick@lemapublishing.co.uk

Special features

Managing Director

26 Fragranced Gifts

Mark Naish mark@lemapublishing.co.uk

Production Director

Paul Naish paul@lemapublishing.co.uk

Chairman

Malcolm Naish malcolm@lemapublishing.co.uk

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With self-care a top trend for 2020 and beyond we look at the products that help customers achieve this goal and why it’s time to diversify the products in this category

62 InStyle 42 New Products Fabulous new ranger to discover from leading giftware companies

66 Games & Puzzles Discover how games and puzzles are filling the void to keep people occupied during lockdown and beyond

Lema Publishing Ltd

1 Churchgates, The Wilderness, Berkhamsted, Herts, HP4 2UB Telephone: 01442 289930

Opinion 14 The Giftware Association

Drawer Liners Drawer Sachets Hand Wash & Moisturising Lotion Pot Pourri Reed Diffusers Room Sprays Scented Candles

Handmade in Suffolk

T 01359 250720 www.manorhousehomefragrance.co.uk

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Message from the Editor www.giftstoday.media

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Instagram: @giftstodaymedia

What a year!

ou may be asking where Sally is? Due to are solved! Starting on page 26 we look at how family commitments she was not able to with the chaos we are all experiencing these complete this issue of Gifts Today, but fragrance products help to soothe and relieve rest assured she will be back next year. As MD of stress, there is something for everyone! Lema Publishing it falls We also interview Annette I have been mightily on my slender shoulders Ritchie of Spirals in Sheffield. impressed by the to give my views and I Retailing for 31 years Annette have many of them as I’m shares her advice on the ever ingenuity and hard sure many of you do too as changing retail landscape and work by the industry to the world we currently what makes Spirals a unique find ourselves in? place to shop. on both sides of the As we move out of On page 22 Our retail panel fence lockdown and into the gives us their insights as to how three tier system that many believe is draconian the Christmas trade is looking and the ups and and over the top, the good news is all of you downs of buying without physical trade fairs. can finally reopen irrespective of which tier With no shows at the start of the year to launch you happen to find yourself in. You don’t need and view new products one thing I can guarantee me to tell you that shutting down retail during you is Gifts Today will be there to help and fill November, one of and for many the biggest this void. Whether sourcing new product or trading month of the year, shows we are living in current news and information to help you and times where rational thought and discussion seem your business, we will be publishing as normal to have left the building. As I said in my article next year in print and online. In place of our on our website are you really telling me you usual February Spring Fair preview issue we will are safer in the fruit and veg aisle of your local be publishing the Gifts Today Product Launcher supermarket than a gift shop buying a candle? which will be jam packed with new products and I think not. However, through all of this I have ranges launching in the new year. If you want to been mightily impressed by the ingenuity and take advantage of this great value opportunity hard work by the industry on both sides of the contact Mark Horsnell on 01442 fence, retail and supply. Whether it be creating 289930 or email him at markh@ new websites, Facebook groups and everything lemapublishing.co.uk to find out inbetween to keep the tills ringing, has been how we can help you. nothing short of remarkable. Soldier on you all Lastly, I hope you end the year p66 have and there are still sales to be had before more positively and I truly wish you Christmas. and yours a Happy Christmas and we In this issue all your fragrance product needs hope a considerably better new year!

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p72 The views of the contributors expressed in this journal are not necessarily those of the publisher. Comments, letters and criticism are welcome.

News Phil Atherton Joins Enesco Gift Shop Winners Two independent gift shops – one in Stowmarket, Suffolk and one in Worcester – have been named on the shortlist of retailers in the running to be named Britain’s Best Small Shop of 2020 - with one taking out the top prize! Cornucopia, is a family run, independent, home and gift shop in Worcester, whose ethos is all about quality and individuality. And Ruby and the Angel, an independent retailer in Debenham, near Stowmarket, which offers a range of gifts and presents including jewellery, scarves, handbags and cards. The Best Small Shops competition is managed by the Independent Retailers Confederation (IRC), whose member trade associations represent approximately 100,000 independent retailers throughout the UK between them. The competition celebrates the commitment and creativity of independent retailers on the UK’s High Streets and the central role they play in their local communities. In addition to the main award, Ruby and the Angel has also been shortlisted for a special award to be given to the independent retailer that has demonstrated specific innovation to combat the impact of COVID-19. “This has been a particularly challenging year for small, independent retailers and many have come through to this point through innovation, quality of product and service, a commitment to serve their local communities and a large dose of determination,” explains Mark Walmsley, Chair of the IRC. The award winners were announced at the end of November, with Cornucopia taking out the prize for 2020.

Miss Milly Artistic Collaboration Miss Milly, the British jewellery, scarves and accessories brand, has collaborated with local designer, Michelle Robinson, to offer a new range of pick-up gifts and earrings to retailers. “I’ve been admiring Michelle’s creations on Twitter for a while now and during Lockdown I contacted her to see if we could work together,” says Sarah Watmore, founder of Miss Milly. “Michelle creates resin pieces from her home in Worcestershire, totally in keeping with our existing Miss Milly product lines and focus on colour.” The new range includes magnetic hearts sent on sentiment cards with a choice of phrases, pocket hug heart keyrings and glittery earrings with silver-plated hooks. The products are made to order within a week and are shipped separately from other Miss Milly products. “I’m delighted to be working with Miss Milly and this is my first foray into wholesale, says Michelle. “The magnetic hearts are a product that we have designed together to be given on a sentiment card, and are a great keepsake item, which can be displayed using the magnet or stood on their edge. The pocket hugs sold really well during Lockdown and the earrings are where I began my creative journey. All the items make great letterbox gifts.”

6 Gifts Today

Phil Atherton has joined Enesco as Sales Director. Phil was most recently the Group Sales and Marketing Director of Portmerion Group plc, where sales grew from £55m to £93m during his eight years with the organisation. He was previously with John Cotton Home textiles for fourteen years and held senior sales management positions in the drinks trade with Remy Martin, Gaymer Group and Allied Domecq. On his new position Phil commented, “I am looking forward to working with the team at Enesco and to identifying and growing the many opportunities we have”. “The fantastic brands and products within the Enesco portfolio have huge potential across the whole of EMEA.”

Wax Lyrical Chief Awarded Business Person of the Year Jacqui Gale, Chief Executive of Wax Lyrical, has been presented with the In-Cumbria Award for “Business Person of the Year”. The Award recognises the leadership and drive demonstrated to overcome challenges and significantly transform a business. The Award recognises an individual but Jacqui was quick to share the accolade with the Wax Lyrical team. “I am honoured to accept this Award, but I do so on behalf of the 138 staff in Wax Lyrical and the wider Portmeirion Group. 2020 has been a challenging year for everyone but it is important to appreciate what was achieved in the face of such adversity.” In 2020, Wax Lyrical continued to drive down its carbon footprint and recruited more staff to the Barrow and Lindal sites. It continued to produce cruelty free, 100% fragranced candles and diffusers, exporting to 46 countries. In March, Jacqui led the business to play a part in helping the NHS. “We decided to pause production and used our onsite lab to produce 70% alcohol sanitiser,” said Jacqui. “After only 10 days we delivered our first batch direct to hospitals and later supplied other key workers and made it available to the public.” Wax Lyrical produced 1 million units in the first 3 months and continue to produce hand sanitiser and surface spray as well as 100% fragranced candles and diffusers. Jacqui said it was thanks to the commitment of the whole Group.

“2020 has been challenging but the investment and support we have as part of the Portmeirion Group, enables continued growth and creation of employment opportunities in Cumbria.” Wax Lyrical prides itself on creating exquisite fragrances but the sanitiser has no fragrance as that was the NHS request. Jacqui explained, “Our attention to design turned to ensuring the sanitiser was also kind to skin and easily absorbed. The inclusion of thickener to create a light gel also means its non smell, actually smells nice.” Jacqui and the team will continue to grow Wax Lyrical into next year. “We are launching several new product ranges and begin construction of a factory extension so 2021 will be just as busy. We continue to support the NHS and our local community and we are grateful to our customers for choosing products which are made in England. 40 years of science, beautiful design and unparalleled quality, wrapped up in total fragrance, and a fantastic team, is what makes Wax Lyrical the UK’s largest home fragrance company.”

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News Government Confirms Retail Reopening In a statement to the House of Commons, Prime Minister Boris Johnson has confirmed that nonessential retail can reopen on December 3. Speaking of the news, Bira’s CEO Andrew Goodacre said, “We are delighted that shops can re-open, and are also unaffected by the new tier system. Retailers will be ready and we hope that the town centres and local authorities will also have prepared to accommodate shoppers.” “December will be all about selling Christmas goods, and retailers will have to work hard and be creative to attract shoppers.” He added, “The second lockdown has had a terrible impact on independent retail - potentially more than the first one because it is such an important time on the retail calendar. Research tells us that 20% of indies did not re-open in the summer after the first lockdown so we will not see the full impact of this until January or February - but it could be the same again.” He said that indies need further support to survive this challenging time. “Cash is running out and more grants will be needed in January. We need clarity on business rates and the decision to extend the rates holiday for non-essential businesses. We need funds and expertise to help indie retailers to continue their transition to a stronger digital footprint. We also need to realise that shopping is safe and no need to close shops even if there is a third lockdown.”

Bloomingville Celebrate 20 years (Nov 9) Bloomingville announces that whilst celebrating their 20th year in business, sales have been really strong in the UK and in spite of COVID and the new lockdown they are still anticipating further growth. Country Manager, Simon Pykett said, “At a time when we could have been forgiven for anticipating a slow down in business, sales this year have been remarkable with each month since May setting new records. Bloomingville is a much sought-after brand anyway and the Nordic look is very popular right now but in addition to this we didn’t have and still don’t have the stock issues which have dogged many of our competitors. “2020 saw all areas of the business grow in the UK and we expect the trend to continue in 2021. We acknowledge that the new lockdown brings new problems but we are here to help and will continue to deliver during lockdown to all customers who can accept stock. Shops are closed only to the consumers, not to our fabulous collection. Some customers have taken delivery to their house to ensure that when England reopens in December they have all they need to trade successfully.”

#MakeRetailFair Campaign Non-essential retailers call for their voices to be heard in a new campaign. The Make Retail Fair Campaign has been launched by non-essential retailers to stop others exploiting lockdown loopholes. The campaign is backed by the British Allied Trades Federation (BATF), and is aimed at closing the loopholes allowing some retailers to continue to operate through the global pandemic. The campaign wants to target authorities to challenge retailers that are taking advantage of the sale of non-essential items. The #MakeRetailFair campaign was the brainchild of Nicky Edmunds, owner of gift and homeware shops Insideout, based in Devon. Last weekend she launched a petition which she called her ‘Cry For Help’. She said that parliament was allowing certain retailers to capitalise on other retailers’ misfortune and described it as ‘discriminatory’. She said, “It is our belief that the government has lost control of this situation and that they need to hear from us; the businesses forced to close because they are deemed non-essential. If we are kept closed whilst ‘essential’ retailers continue to profiteer from the sale of non-essentials, our communities will be unrecognizable in the foreseeable future. In allowing those businesses to sell non-essentials, it is encouraging people to spend with them and no-one else. It will, without doubt, break businesses like ours and in turn, rapidly empty the high street.” Sarah Ward, Managing Director of the British Allied Trades Federation (BATF) and formerly Chief Executive of the Giftware Association commented: “If we all have one voice and all work together, then we stand the highest chance of achieving a positive outcome.” Andrew Goodacre, BIRA’s CEO, said “The guidelines say that a business must sell a significant amount of essential items to stay open and we want to see the authorities challenge the large general retailer chains on this. If you are a specialist indie retailer, you are literally seeing your products and your livelihood being sold in other non-essential shops.”

Consumer Goods Brexit Webinars Government urges action as the UK faces a new trading relationship with the EU. Consumer Goods companies are being urged to get going on key actions as the UK counts down to its new trading relationship with the EU after December 31. The Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) has a series of webinars to help businesses understand the important actions they need to take to be ready by the end of the transition period. Webinars are free and take between 45-90 minutes. They will cover issues including conformity assessment, tariffs and rules of origin. The top three actions consumer goods companies need to take to be ready for January 1, 2021 are to check if import VAT is due at the border, changes to regulations and standards for goods, and customs declarations. To watch the webinars on demand, visit bit.ly/UKTwebinar. Speak with your lawyer and accountant for more information, or visit the www.gov.uk/transition checker tool for tailored business information and to sign up for email updates.

New Managing Director for BATF The British Allied Trades Federation announced Sarah Ward as the new Managing Director under a planned restructure. The BATF, which includes The Giftware Association, the National Association of Jewellers, the British Travelgoods and Accessories Association, Jewellery Distributors Association and the Surface Engineering Association, has announced the initial changes to its staffing structure as the body takes its first steps in response to better serve its five federated Trade Associations. As part of the changes, Sarah Ward will lead the federations restructure process. The former Chief Executive of The GA said, “I am delighted to be taking on this role. As an experienced business leader in the allied trades, I understand the importance of bringing people together and building strong foundations for the future. A key aspect of the role is to utilise the full range of skill within The Federation through collaboration and a ‘stronger together’ mindset for our members benefit.” “Like many businesses at the moment we’re having to make decisions about where resource is best placed, but what may be different to many is this restructure has been a long time waiting to deliver significant business enhancements. We’re determined to best serve the needs of the memberships of all the Federated Trade Associations, by working with the appropriate National Committees to provide valued benefits and services that can make a genuine difference to business right across the trade.” As part of the restructure the Federation will bring a number of personnel into the central team currently based within associations, including membership, education and marketing to join international and events which are already based centrally. 8 Gifts Today

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Exhibition News Spring Fair 2021 Goes Online Hyve Group have announced event changes for 2021 with Spring Fair @ Home going virtual for 2021 and the live event returning in 2022. Hyve Group have announced that due to government restrictions on the reopening of business conferences and exhibition halls, Spring Fair will no longer take place in February 2021. The next planned home, gift and fashion retail event will be Autumn Fair, together with Moda, at the NEC Birmingham from September 5-8, 2021. Spring Fair will return as an in-person event, February 6-10, 2022. Hyve, JWF, Glee at Spring Fair and Moda are working to deliver an enhanced virtual forum with product features and exclusive seminar content designed to educate and inform participants. More information on “Spring Fair @Home” will be available on the Spring Fair website, while “Fashion Together” can be found on the Moda website over the coming weeks. Julie Driscoll, Managing Director – UK Retail said, “While it is regrettable that we won’t be able to meet in person at Spring Fair and Moda in February due to the new UK government rules, we are incredibly excited to host Spring Fair @Home and Fashion Together. Following the success of this year’s virtual forums, we’re looking forward to providing our clients and customers another touchpoint to be inspired and stay connected with the retail industry.” For updates on the virtual event visit www.springfair.com

Joint Frankfurt Show Scheduled for April In light of ongoing restrictions, organisers of consumer goods show have postponed the event and combined additional sectors for a joint show in April. The International Consumer Goods Show – Special Edition will be held from April 17-20, 2021 in Frankfurt am Main. The show will feature Paperworld, Creativeworld, Christmasworld and Ambiente in a combined physical and digital event. In a statement, Michael Reichhold, Director Paperworld and Creativeworld, revealed the reasons for the change, “The current situation with the international Covid 19 pandemic is a challenge for all of us, because nothing like this has ever happened before in our society. We have all felt the effects. At the same time, we have learned to adjust to the new circumstances and to adjust our actions accordingly privately and in business. A new way of thinking is required - in every area, also in the trade fair business. Nevertheless: From large sections of the international consumer goods industry, there is a desire to hold Paperworld, Creativeworld, Christmasworld and Ambiente in 2021. With B2B business, it is particularly important to establish personal contacts and discuss solutions as well as experience products at first hand - this is the only way to achieve business objectives. Following the lockdown, many companies hope that 10 Gifts Today

their presence at the fair will give their business a boost. We are delighted to be able to make this possible again with the International Consumer Goods Show – Special Edition from 17 – 20 April 2021 in Frankfurt am Main. “Paperworld, Christmasworld and Ambiente will be held jointly for the first time. This live trade fair will be flanked by the digital offerings of the Consumer Goods Digital Days. The purely digital offerings of Creativeworld will also be on display here, which will not be held as a live event in 2021. “The trend-oriented order cycles of the consumer goods industry require an annual event at the beginning of the year. This offers all participants the opportunity for business meetings, ordering and networking and is the best answer to the current challenges. We firmly believe that holding an event later in April 2021 will take the pressure off. As organisers of trade fairs, the safety of all exhibitors, visitors, partners and employees is of paramount importance for us and we will stick to our protection and hygiene concept.”

Gift + Living Proceeds for 2021 Giving & Living the South West’s biggest gift & home trade show, has been postponed to the Spring of 2021. The show will now take place from Monday 10th May – Wednesday 12th May, at Westpoint, Exeter, and will, as ever, be the place for buyers looking to stock up with the very latest trends in gifts and home accessories for the year ahead. They are delighted to have secured these dates, which provide more than two months lead time before the Summer season. They know how much their exhibitors and buyers are looking forward to getting back together face to face. These dates will allow businesses to trade though Easter and the early Spring, and attend with confidence to buy, after what will be a have been a very disrupted winter for us all. For more information about the show, to book a stand, or register to attend, visit www.givingliving.co.uk/ or please call 01934 733433.

London Stationery Show Postponed The next edition of London Stationery Show will take place from May 18-19, 2021 at the Business Design Centre in Islington, London. Exhibitions in the UK have been halted over the course of the pandemic and were originally due to resume in October. The government Department for Culture, Media and Sport has already approved the event industry’s Covid-19 guidance, and was also satisfied with pilot events which took place in September. It is now expected that events will be allowed to restart from March 2021. “We are confident that exhibitions will resume in the spring” said Event Director, Alex Butler “and to ensure we’re in the best position possible to host a second-to-none event, we have secured a slightly later date than usual for next year’s show. From speaking with exhibitors and visitors over the course of this year we know that everyone is craving the opportunity to meet face-to-face. The industry is in agreement that nothing can replace the organic business which comes from an exhibition.” “Understanding the needs of our community has been a priority since the start of the pandemic, and focus groups have allowed us to gain insight into how businesses are performing. It has been incredible to witness the stationery sector’s resilience against the impact of Covid-19, with some reporting year-on-year growth in the most challenging of circumstances.” “It will have been 2 years since our industry last came together, and suppliers and buyers alike are craving the opportunity to meet face-to-face. The health and safety of everyone involved will continue to be at the core of our planning, and we will be working hard to communicate our plans to ensure everyone feels confident attending the show,” Alex continued. “We are ready to safely open London Stationery Show’s doors and cannot wait to see everyone there.” London Stationery Show will take place on Tuesday 18 May and Wednesday 19 May 2021.

Virtual Scotland Trade Fair Given the current restrictions due to the ongoing covid-19 pandemic, Scotland’s Trade Fair Spring will become a virtual event in 2021. Mark Saunders, Show Director said, “Restrictions on indoor events are likely to remain in place for some time yet. In addition, our regular venue the SEC, as well as possible alternatives are either supporting the NHS or are not operating as event venues until the Spring. As such we would prefer to remove the uncertainty and concentrate on events we can deliver. Therefore, we are planning to host Scotland’s Trade Fair as a virtual event in 2021.” The virtual event will remain online throughout 2021 to provide a resource for buyers all year. It will be available for them to visit at any time when they are sourcing new suppliers and new ideas. Buyers have become used to using show websites as a sourcing tool throughout the year so Scotland’s Trade Fair online will continue to provide this service. It will be supported by a series of mini virtual events, throughout the year, to provide a focus on particular product sectors and retail themes to help buyers with buying and sourcing. Further details will be announced as soon as they become available. www.spring.scotlandstradefairs.co.uk/

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26/11/2020 15:16

GT CONTRIBUTOR: The Giftware Association – Sarah Ward

Why Gift of the Year is more important than ever The Giftware Association’s largest and longest running Gift and Homeware competition has never been more important to the industry. As news of the competition’s twoweek extension spreads across our eco-system, now is your final chance to enter your fabulous products and ranges and get them in front of the judging panel.

Sarah Ward

‘

The competition is the perfect opportunity to let your product and ranges shine, with a brandnew website that is more visual and user-friendly

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14Gifts Today

he giftware industry has faced an extremely tough year with the huge disruptions caused by lockdowns, the closure of our high streets and the absence of trade shows and any physical events, meaning buyers have not had the chance to source the next best gifts on the market created by our wonderfully creative giftware manufacturers, producers and designers. The virtual events organized by Hyve, Clarion and BCTF have been a fantastic offering to replicate the show atmosphere at connecting the supply chain together with retailers, and the GOTY competition and its new website aims to grow on that connection. We want suppliers to find buyers, with extra promotion through our brandnew podcast, our blogs and social media shoutouts. The competition is the perfect opportunity to let your product and ranges shine, with a brand-new website that is more visual and user-friendly, it will allow the judges to view your products in their best

light through added imagery, video and information uploads. This year the judges will even be able to add their favourites, so even if you don’t make it through the be a finalist you are still getting great exposure. It’s a great chance to be seen by a new audience and raise your profile within the industry, and whether you are a first timer or a seasoned professional of the competition, we are on hand to guide you through the entry process. Unfortunately, our awards ceremony has become a casualty of the health crisis with the cancellation of Spring Fair, but we have something exciting up our sleeves working closely with the Spring Fair @ home team and announcing the winners throughout the virtual Spring Fair event. We will be bringing the awards to your home with a celebratory event for your front room and more exposure to the winners, finalists and shortlisted. Even entrants will get a shout out with their own blog post on the

new site as well as social media shout outs to all the entrants. It has never been as important to get your products seen by retailers and we see this competition as a conduit to do just that. Our retailer and buyer judges are so excited to see the entered products and after having a sneak peak of products that have already been entered, they are going to have a hard choice in deciding the winners. We look forward to seeing your nominated products and ranges very soon. www.ga-uk.org

Puckator Ltd. Lowman Works, East Taphouse, Liskeard, Cornwall, PL14 4NQ, UK 0800 011 6969 customerservices@puckator.co.uk www.puckator.co.uk

Profile: 3D Factory

Sharing the Magic of 3D Gifts Today caught up with Darryl Horner and John Brown from the 3D Factory to discuss the brand’s expansion into the UK. How did 3D Factory UK come about?

Darryl Horner

The 3D Factory UK was launched into the UK Market at this year’s Spring Fair in Birmingham. We are the flagship brand of ASM Eclipse, the largest souvenir and merchandising company in Australia, which has reached out globally to New Zealand, Asia, South Africa and now here in the UK. Although plagued (like us all) by the Coronavirus, initial trade has started to gain momentum due to having strong sales coverage across the UK. We are Australian Trusted Traders, meaning our business practices are compliant and secure, enabling simplified import and exports. Our product is distributed directly from our wellstocked UK warehouse ready for you to start.

What makes your 3D products special?

Do you make custom products? Yes, absolutely. We have had many enquires requesting custom designs and own branding. This has kept our talented graphic design team busy, bringing their images to life with skill and expertise. We continue to keep the minimum order quantity low when producing own branded designs.

How do you maintain the high standards of your products?

Although we have excellent lenticular souvenir products, 3D is not a new concept, I’m sure many people remember finding a hologram in their cereal box! But the digital technology used to produce our product has been developed and grown exponentially over the last few years. The manufacturing process uses high quality materials which enhance the artwork and provides the final effect. The depth of the overall product is something that is noticed immediately, and is one of the key reasons why we supply products to a leading worldwide family entertainment company for several years.

We are a professional family company, who are morally conscious of our ethical obligations. Our products and packaging is produced using recyclable materials and we constantly maintain our social audits by working closely with our supply chain. This ensures that we provide the highest quality product from our well-established and reliable factories.

Who are your customers?

Anything else you would like to add?

Our customer base includes tourist resorts, wildlife parks, zoos and theme parks and a variety of others. Many of our Australian stockists, some of which have been trading with us for 35 years, are always looking forward to our innovative new products or custom artworks. They often pre order from samples as we offer very low minimums. This is a model that has continued here and in addition to the minimum order, we also supply our spinning countertop and floor display stands free of charge.

What are some of your top-selling products? Our best-selling product has been the 3D 16 Gifts Today

rulers from the Countrylife Collection with the multiplication tables on the back, making it an ideal educational learning tool. This has been closely followed by 3D bookmarks and 3D Heart magnets which are almost on par. Sales have increased significantly due to the positive impact of our value starter packs and stands. We are big believers in that displaying 3D correctly is the proven key to success.

We look forward to working with you in the future and “Sharing the Magic of 3D” Please visit our website or contact us for any additional information.

Contact details

Email: uksales@the3dfactory.design Visit: www.the3dfactory.design

Combining our three brands â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Karlsson, Leitmotiv and Pt, we have created a collection that is both inspiring and exciting. With our AW20 collection, you will see how we combine all of our ranges to create a unique home atmosphere.

www.presenttime.com Luke Felton Country Manager UK & Ireland lf@presenttime.com | 07975597855

Present Time.indd 1

01/12/2020 11:20

RETAIL INTERVIEW:

Spirals

A Unique Perspective Annette and David Ritchie have operated their charming gift store in Sheffield on a lovely tree lined road that leads into the Peak District for an impressive 31 years. Annette shares her advice on the ever-changing retail landscape and what makes Spirals a unique place to shop. You opened Spirals in October 1989, how did you come to set up your own business? We opened our independent business 31 years ago after both of us having had experience in retail, we had a dream of opening our own business together. We looked at different towns and villages and stumbled upon the property that would become Spirals.

How was lockdown for you? It was very strange for us as we weren’t used to having so much time off work. We’ve always opened 6 days a week and only taking the occasional extra day off after a bank holiday. Our last proper holiday was around 1991 when we took a week’s holiday abroad!! So, after the initial shock of lockdown we started to relax, reflect and enjoy our time at home.

How many of you are there on the team? There is just the two of us, myself and my husband David. We do all the buying, selling and research ourselves - although we often ask our two children for help with our computer skills and social media.

Did you trade at all during lockdown? Just a few days before lockdown was announced we decided to close as we felt uncomfortable with the situation, we filled our car with stock and took it home just in case anyone wanted to buy anything. I spent time photographing products in our home and garden posted them on Instagram and Facebook and offered to post out to customers. I incorporated my daily walk with a trip to our local post office and queued daily, mostly in the sun as the weather was so beautiful. What’s your online and social media presence like? I use Instagram as a platform and I try 18 Gifts Today

to post most days especially when we get new products in. I find Instagram enjoyable and have made some lovely ‘Insta friends’ with similar businesses, I find it is a very friendly community. What do you feel makes your shop so special/different to the rest? We try to source products, cards and gifts that you don’t see in every high street store and we try to be unique. We also try to support the smaller companies as many of them will offer the products to you exclusively in your area. Hello Sweetie is one of these little companies and we have just started selling her ‘positivity bottles’ they are so cute. What range of greetings and gifts merchandise do you offer? ‘Botanicals’ are very on trend and we have a lot of different product ranges at the moment, including Prints and Canvas Art all with a Botanical feel, all from The Art Group. Rustic

We try t o sou produc ts, card rce sa that you don’t se nd gifts high str eet stor e in every e to be u and we try nique.

plant pots, basket ware and recycled glass vases from Grand Illusions. Some of the newest products we have recently purchased are Toasted Crumpet, a beautiful china collection of mugs and jugs all designed and hand finished in Britain, their wild flower meadow collection is in collaboration with The National Trust. They also have a fern collection that fits in well we our botanical theme too. Bramley products, a Luxury Bath and Body Collection that uses natural ingredients and essential oils. Their hand sanitiser is amazing. Card Companies we stock include Wendy Jones Blackett, her beautiful hot foil cards and our best-selling large feather milestone age, relation, and occasions cards. Dandelion stationery is one of our best-selling humour range. Rosie Made A Thing is our newest humour range, it is very on trend with her isolation collection too. The Art File, ‘Vertigo’ is a great range of male/masculine cards and fills a massive gap in the market. What are some of your biggest selling categories/brands? Some of our biggest sellers would be East of India, we have been stockists since the early 90s and we remember when John used deliver our orders in his little van all the way from Folkestone to Sheffield. Also, St. Eval Candle company, these are the best scented candles and diffusers and our customers come back time and time again for them - our shop always smells amazing too!

Bestsellers since lockdown? Our bestsellers since lockdown has been mixed across all of our ranges, but face masks have been selling very well. During lockdown our daughter Hollie (who graduated in fashion and is now a seamstress) wanted to support a domestic abuse charity @refugecharity and decided to make some face masks out of her collection of leftover fabrics and we sold them on her behalf on Instagram and Facebook. The full £5 per mask was donated to the charity and together we raised a massive £1000. She has now returned to work and unfortunately hasn’t got time to make any more so we have had to source others to sell in store. Do you have a typical customer? Our customer ranges from students to the more mature age group as we are close to the university and hospitals, but we don’t have many school age customers though. How important are British-made and eco products to you? Eco-friendly products we have introduced include beautiful soaps by Emma’s Soap which are handmade in Devon. Bamboo novelty socks by Joya socks and bamboo reusable cups @bamboocupUK. We also use paper carriers, paper bags and brown paper wrapping in store too. What trends do you predict will be big in the coming months? The trends for the coming months will probably be more self-care products like mindfulness books and gifts including face masks, soaps (keep washing your hands), bath and body products and hand sanitisers. Looking back, what advice would you give to others setting out on the same journey?

Step back in time!

Advice I would give to anyone setting up a new business would be don’t try to have the same as your neighbours, try and be unique, go with your heart, choose products that you love and would buy for yourself. Where does most of your inspiration come from given physical trade shows aren’t happening at present? I get my inspiration from Instagram now, as trade fairs are no longer an option. We usually attend the Spring and Autumn Fairs at the NEC, although we find them too big to enjoy. Harrogate Home & Gift fair is our favourite as it has more of a relaxed feel to it, and the sun usually shines. What’s next? Keep being positive, keep buying little and often, keep supporting independents and small businesses, keep smiling from behind our now mandatory masks and bring on Christmas. Gifts Today 19

GT COVER STORY: Marmalade of London

Be What You Want To Bee Marmalade of London is getting bigger by the year but their artisan aesthetic and environmental philosophy remain at the heart of their business. We chat with founder Piers Flook on his home fragrance brand and plans for the future. How did Marmalade come about? The Marmalade of London home fragrance brand began life back in 2012 when I started selling handmade batches of candles at artisan markets across the country. My wife Helen joined the business in 2016 as we were expanding and now, we’ve sold over four million products in over 500 independent stores across the UK.

You expanded into America last year, how has that been? After a lot of research, we decided that the US represented the best growth opportunity for our business. In 2019 we opened a series of permanent showrooms in Atlanta, Dallas, Las Vegas, Los Angeles and Minnesota. The showrooms are staﬀed by our US sales representatives and we now have approaching 100 of them. Generally, due to the size of the US the order values are larger than the UK. We have a group of 10 stores in Texas who have already ordered over 100 times. We have set up a logistics company in New Jersey and a US subsidiary with offices in Delaware. It’s been a lot of travelling, trade shows, expense, and a lot of hard work but it’s starting to pay oﬀ.

22 Gifts Today

So, after conquering America, you have set your sights back on home soil again, with more plans for expansion in the UK. What can you tell me about that? Yes, we are looking to get a lot bigger. We are building a new state-of-the-art factory in the UK. The plan is to have an eco-friendly factory, product research and development facility and a showroom in the heart of the Cotswolds. Helen and I live in Cheltenham, so the commute is only 10 minutes, we have electric charging points for vans and cars at the new site and in the summer, we can use the new cycle paths. The whole factory is surrounded by green spaces and there’s a woodland area planted for our pet Labrador, Pepper, to explore.

Your fragrances are entrenched in nature, where do you get your inspiration for the scents? Our sense of smell is the first sense we develop, it can remind us of a place, a time or person. Most of my fragrance inspiration comes from places, while travelling (though this has been curtailed

recently thanks to Covid 19). Helen and I spent our honeymoon in a water bungalow in the Maldives, which would inspire anyone. This trip was the inspiration behind Pacific Orchid and Sea Salt. Our Tuscan Lime and Basil was inspired by our trips to Italy. Our Nordic Fir was created in Canada while we were staying with friends in the bay of Fundy. The most personal scent, Cassis and White Cedar, relates to a childhood memory, when my mother allowed me to have a dash of crème de cassis in a small glass of wine while on a family holiday in the pine forests of Southwest France. Even lockdown was a time for creativity Coastline was inspired by my longing to revisit our incredible English Coast and smell the sea spray, coral, driftwood and seaweed. It has also led us to start building a fragrance library on the side of our home where I can spend my evenings designing future scents from future travels.

You are adding more ranges to complement the Marmalade Home Collection, what can you tell me about them?

Marmalade and the Bumble Bee Conservation Trust Marmalade of London support the Bumble Bee Conservation Trust and our support has helped them continue their invaluable work with conservation and education activities such as: ■ Early 2020 saw the launch of the Fowey Valley Bumblebee Project in Cornwall. This project is testing the University of Exeter’s Bee-Steward model on a landscape scale with the aim to understand the ways bumblebees respond to their environment to help land management decisions. ■ The Short-haired bumblebee Project celebrated 10 years. This project has created 2,460 hectares of habitat, engaged 30,000 people, has set up 26 Bee Walk transects to monitor bumblebee populations, and has worked with landowners to create bumblebee-friendly habitat. ■ Through the West Country Buzz project, the Trust discovered new sites for the scarce Brownbanded carder bee at Hartland Quay, and Moss carder bee at RMB Chivenor. ■ The Trust launched the Shrill Carder Bee Conservation Strategy to save one of the rarest bumblebees, found in only five areas in Wales, Somerset and the Thames Gateway. The plan is to create and restore habitat favoured by this fuzzy winged warrior, to help improve the genetic diversity, resilience and abundance. n An App has been launched where users can see bumblebees in an augmented reality function and bumblebeebeginners can ID our most common species.

We added the Marmalade Mosney Mill Botanicals range to our collection earlier this year. This range is a collaboration between us and Mosney Mill. I’ve developed fragrances which are inspired by the flowers bees are drawn too – lavender, rose, sweet pea and bluebell. For the packaging, we’ve taken the beautiful drawings of our friend and artist Emma Sutton. Emma’s artwork is inspired by the animals from the gorgeous scenery she is immersed in at Mosney Mill, her family’s 11-acre estate in the Lancashire countryside. The range features a signature golden bumblebee across everything.

What other ranges are you adding to your offering? We are expanding the Mosney Mill botanicals range with Winter Fir and next year three new Autumn Winter Fragrances. We will also be developing a range of fine bone china candle and diffuser vessels designed by Emma Sutton and fired here in Great Britain. A further three collections will be added to the Marmalade brand family in the coming seasons. The Marmalade Wellbeing collections will be launched in 2021, followed by our Marmalade Naturals collection in 2022 and Marmalade Luxe collection in 2023. Each collection will feature their own unique fragrances, vessels, packaging and Pos.

You pride yourself on your environmental credentials and natural materials. Why are these important issues to you and your business? Helen and I care deeply about the environment and supporting independent British retailers. Using natural soy wax, fragrances that contain essential oils and hand pouring candles using cotton wicks are more expensive for us to make but in our opinion, they make superior products than paraffin, highly synthetic and lead based products. We have great relationships with all of our customers and our British suppliers, our candle tins for example are made in London using 100% solar and lunar power. Our ecofriendly new factory will be surrounded by trees and wild flowers (great for encouraging bumble bees) and will feature 15% roof lights for natural lighting, high performance insulated cladding and roof materials, electric vehicle charging points, electric stacker trucks and forklifts.

Did you know? Marmalade donate 5% of the Gross profit from their Marmalade of London Mosney Mill Botanicals collection How did you come to support the Bumble Bee Conservation Trust? The Bumblebee Conservation Trust was established because of serious concerns about the ‘plight of the bumblebee’. In the last 80 years our bumblebee populations have crashed. Two species have become nationally extinct and several others have declined dramatically. Bumblebees are much-loved insects that pollinate our crops and wildflowers, so we are naturally concerned that without these creatures the stocks of flowers and plants that produce the essential oils we use in our products are in jeopardy. For every Bee range product we sell, 5% of the profit will go to supporting the Bumble Bee Conservation Trust.

www.bumblebeeconservation.org Maramalde’s of London’s build new Eco HQ in the Cotswolds

www.marmaladeoflondon.com

Gifts Today

RETAILERS’ PANEL The latest members of our Panel – key gift shop owners around the UK – tell us how Christmas trade is looking, what’s selling well in fragranced gifts and the ups and downs of buying without physical trade fairs

Elizabeth Blandford Blandfords of Ledbury and Blandfords of Broadway How did you get into retail? I blame my husband for that! I was working as an agronomist in the potato industry when I met Andrew who had a shop in Broadway. We got married and it made sense (cheap labour?!) that I joined him on the retail side of things … and 17 years later I have to say that I love my career change! What are the best & worst thing about working in retail?

Best has to be helping our lovely customers, I really do like that personal interaction side of the job that you can get. I also love buying at Trade Fairs – actually I just love buying new products! Worst, well that has to be tired legs at the end of the day, satisfying tired legs but most days I can walk up to 3 miles which also includes steps. Perhaps this ought to be a positive as it keeps me fit. What are the top-selling fragranced gifts you carry? This time of year, Heathcote & Ivory sells well, Kew Gardens hand creams and soaps make a lovely gift for someone. We have also introduced a new home fragrance into our Ledbury store, Thomas Street candles, I love the smell of them and the packaging is eyecatching too. What is your favourite item in store? Easy one to answer – Roka of London, I just love these bags and so do our customers. They make such a great colourful, bold statement in the shop and I like that they are a unisex item. We’ve recently introduced their sustainability range made from plastic bottles. I think they are fab, I’m yet to get one for myself as 22 Gifts Today

I can’t decide on what colour! What is the best gift you’ve received? As a gift shop owner, I must be very difficult to buy for!!! I’m a complete sucker for anything parrot related as I love parrots, my sister gave me lovely hand-drawn picture of a parrot and I love any type of jewellery ... hint, hint!!

What gift ranges are popular in your store? Our jewellery ranges go well, I suppose our best would be Big Metal London & Equilibrium from Joe Davies. Also, the lovely Reed diffusers and candles from Marmalade of London are popular as well.

How is your Christmas trade going given the current situation? We were doing really well, customers were shopping with us, they had got used to our one-way system we were all used to wearing masks, we were buying in stock and then second lockdown came, and it’s all come to a temporary halt. But we keep changing our shop windows and we are ready to get those shop doors open when we can and plan to be open 7 days a week and we will extending our opening hours. What are your Spring buying plans given there won’t be any physical trade shows?

Luckily for us we did good new buying last Spring so these we will just carry through. I’ve been introduced to new companies that have contacted the shop through our social media and I have my eye on some others that I’ve spotted. We will be relying on companies’ agents, reps and visiting warehouse showrooms. How do trade magazines help you? They are so useful, seeing new trends reading about other independent shops, with trade fairs not happening this year and who knows when they will continue again these magazines are going to be invaluable.

Mind if we fill up your wallet?

Every day is an opportunity for your customers to buy beautiful gifts when they come at such beautiful prices

Gifts of random kindness

RexLondonTrade.com

Gifts Today

RETAILERS’ PANEL

Blacketts Gift Shop Bamburgh What’s the story behind your business? As part of a development project, my husband built our first premises on a redundant site in the coastal village of Bamburgh over 30 years ago, comprising seven holiday apartments, a restaurant and gift shop. Two years ago, we re-located into an adjacent Grade 2 listed Walled Garden which gave us added space for gardenalia and plant sales and which also allowed the restaurant business space where it could expand.

What are the best & worst things about working in retail? There are two bests - Taking a risk on a new artist or line you have discovered, which is always a real buzz when it flies off the shelves. And secondly, a happy customer! The two worsts - Watching a customer google on their phone as they browse, looking for items cheaper online. We do all we can to provide an enjoyable customer experience in a unique environment from the moment they walk through our door. The “Googlers” really make me mad – it’s so rude! Also, we are a seasonal business allied to the tourist season, so keeping up morale during the winter period is often hard.

‘

Notes of Northumberland. They started only last year and have quickly become our best seller; candles, diffusers, toiletries range What is your favourite item in store?

‘

Sue Swearman

Eribe Knitwear, we have become stockist this year. Such a lovely company - they mix traditional design with contemporary colours. They are a real standout line, sustainable and ethical fashion at its very best. The fact that they are made locally in the Scottish Borders is a huge selling point for us too! What are the top-selling fragranced gifts you carry? These would be from a local company, Notes of Northumberland. They started only last year and have quickly become our best seller; candles, diffusers, toiletries range. I also began stocking Inis Ireland this year and that has gone really well for us. Our stalwarts and been with us for as long as I can remember are Pintail and St Eval.

24 Gifts Today

What is the best gift you’ve received? The best gift I’ve ever received were two pencil drawings of our two daughters, about 25 years ago. It was a complete surprise and reduced me to tears! How is your Christmas trade going given the current situation? Customers were buying for Christmas before lockdown 2 was imposed at the start of November. I’m really not too sure what will happen if we manage to re-open before Christmas, as I’m guessing that people will take advantage of Black Friday offers online. What are your Spring buying plans given there won’t be any physical trade shows? Spring buying plans are definitely challenging. Fortunately, we have one or two suppliers which are reasonably local to us, and Agents seem eager to call - even some who have never been in touch before which is interesting! How do trade magazines help you? They provide a sound insight into new trends in the industry. Going forwards, I think that trade magazines could prove invaluable as we move further into the world of the virtual trade show.

our showrooms are open 9.00am-5pm (Government guidelines apply)

www. straitstrading. com visit our website to view our full collection.

customer services T: 01254 300260 E: sales@straitstrading.com Catalogues available upon request.

*LIWV 7RGD\ LQGG

Home Fragrance

Joma Marmalade of London

Self-Care Scentral

Self-care and well-being is one of the top trends globally for 2020 as we all look for ways to calm the chaos around us. From making our homes more comforting to taking some time for ourselves, fragrance items are helping to ease the stress and provide important relaxation tools.

elf-care isn’t a new concept but it is one that has gained more prominence in recent years and has been at the forefront during this global health crisis. Broadly explained, self-care is anything that we do to look after our physical, emotional or mental health. Activities can be big or small, and they differ for every individual, meaning the tools we use to achieve our self-care goals differ as well. With so many ways and means to aid and assist people with self-care, there are many opportunities for retailers to provide a variety of products to meet customers’ needs. Home Fragrance The pandemic has meant many people have spent more time at home for one reason or another,

26 Gifts Today

so we want that environment to be comfortable and comforting. According to the NPD Group, sales of prestige candles, diffusers and room fresheners increased before and as the UK entered the first lockdown. “In March 2020, sales of prestige room fresheners increased 37%, sales of prestige candles increased 6%, and sales of prestige diffusers increased 3%, compared to the same period in 2019.” The sales trend continued through Spring with candle sales increasing a further 1% in the week beginning April 12, 2020 compared to the same period in 2019. Scented candles and other home fragrance products were “part of the home cocooning ritual for consumers.” “The increase in sales of home scents prior to the UK lockdown demonstrates how important home

Retailer Views

Retailers tell us what fragrance gifts work for them and their customers. Sue Swearman, Blacketts Gift Shop in Bamburgh

“I started stocking Inis Ireland this year and that has gone really well. A local business, Notes of Northumberland have quickly become our best sellers in the candles, diffusers and toiletries range. We’ve been carrying Pintail and St. Eval for as long as I can remember.” Elizabeth Blandford, Blandfords of Ledbury and Broadway

“Hand creams and soaps make a lovely gift for someone. Earlier this year we have also introduced a new home fragrance into our Ledbury store, Thomas Street Candles, I love the smell of them and the packaging is eye-catching. The Reed diffusers and candles from Marmalade of London are popular too.” Irene Mackenzie, Paper Moon, Glasgow

“Some of my favourite gifts are the soaps from Highland Soap Co. which we have displayed along with a card from Pink Pig.” Jon May, Mooch Gifts and Home

“My favourite item has to be mooch no.1 candle Rhubarb & Ginger, it’s the only candle I burn at home.”

Irene Mackenzie, Paper Moon, Glasgow Katie Alice “Some of my favourite gifts are

the soaps from Highland Soap Co. which we have displayed along with a card from Pink Pig.” environmental and sustainability traits, whether that is plastic-free packaging, recyclable materials or carbon-offset programs. It is always worth asking the questions about the product’s environmental credentials to see if it is good for the planet as well as smells nice.

Jon May, Mooch Gifts and Home

“My favourite item has to be mooch no.1 candle Rhubarb & Ginger, it’s the only candle I burn at home.” comforts are to us. We have seen from our data that consumers are increasingly turning to self-care to improve wellbeing during the COVID-19 pandemic. People are utilising scents to create a calming ambiance while confined at home during this period of uncertainty,” said Emma Fishwick, Account Manager, NPD UK Beauty. According to the NPD report popular candle scents include traditional English spring-time fragrances such as Cherry Blossom, Rhubarb and Rose. While candles

infused with blends of essential oils were also popular, especially oils that are known for their mood-boosting qualities such as Sandalwood, Lavender, Ylang Ylang and Patchouli. Scented Soaps Another way of meeting self-care needs is for people to take a few minutes for a hot shower or a relaxing soak in the tub. Scented candles and reed diffusers can still be used in bathrooms of course, but scented soaps, body wash and other toiletry items are the primary

go-to products in this area. If the products are handmade, contain all-natural ingredients and are locally produced, you are also likely to meet consumer demands for sustainability and the environment as well. But as Phil Pond of trend forecasting body Scarlet Opus said, “You must provide consumers with information on the product provenance, preferably before they ask for it. But just being made in Britain won’t be enough, it will still need to stack up against imports.” Many producers are proud to discuss their positive

Sales Potential Smell is a key sense, and having the right fragrance gifts and home accessories options are going to be important to get customers to make those purchases. Phil Pond said that “online consumption is less than 30% of overall spend, and people are blending purchasing methods.” You can’t smell candles, soaps or diffusers online, but having them on display will entice consumers. Whether customers are buying fragranced gifts for others or for themselves as a bit of self-care, having a range of products and in different scents will ensure you meet customer wants. And as retail reopens and the all-important Christmas trade intensifies, product mix will help at the tills as will effective merchandising – so look at your displays and use your nose to see and smell what works best.

New Tin Lids Heaven Scent

Heaven Scent has always been known for their positive attitude to the environment and sustainability. They were the first to create a Vegan Candle back in the 90s using plant waxes and minimal recycled packaging, and they have enjoyed being ahead of the curve. Nearly 30 years later Heaven Scent are continuing to seek ways to reduce waste and create products that do less harm to the environment and humans. They have a fully solar powered factory and contribute to Tree Planting Charities to offset the carbon they use. Heaven Scent were the first to use the now common Brown Pharmacy Jar for candles over 25 years ago, and although very attractive the lid used is made from Urea Plastic, which is the toughest kind of plastic and causes many problems for the environment. As a concern for the company, they decided to create an alternative. Working in partnership with UK tin lid makers, they have created a beautiful alternative, a Matt Black Lid made from Tin, and they believe it looks better than the plastic lid. Heaven Scent will be at the Spring Fair virtual tradeshow this January where the new and improved products will be available to see.

Call: 01225 868788 Visit: www.heavenscent.co.uk Gifts Today 27

Home Fragrance

Scientifically Proven Ashleigh & Burwood

Being the UK’s leading brand for Fragrance Lamps is a position Ashleigh & Burwood value highly and it was this coupled with their long-held belief in the abilities of the product which led them to make a significant financial investment in specialist independent testing this year, at a time when others were cautiously putting a hold on spending. Following this, Ashleigh & Burwood are now proud to be the first and only brand in the world with scientifically proven results of their product against airborne coronavirus* (97% reduction in airborne virus), as well as against other infectious agents. Launching in the early 2000s, Ashleigh & Burwood are known for their “crackled mosaic” glass Fragrance Lamp design, which has been described as iconic within the Fragrance Lamp industry. Their range has grown to 80 different styles, across two sizes – another unique aspect of their collection – and an extensive range of 60 Lamp Fragrances covering all fragrance families. They understand their market and how tastes and style preferences filter through to the buying decisions consumers make on the shop floor. And while the mosaic design remains the most popular, not wishing to be defined by this style alone, this year they launched their iconic Fragrance Lamps into two other collections, providing fresh presentations of the product concept. The Design Anthology was launched at the start of the year, with its Fragrance Lamps carrying the bold printed designs of the collection, sitting alongside matching Scented Candles and Reed Diffusers. They have followed this up this season by adding Fragrance Lamp Gift Sets – beautifully gift boxed Fragrance Lamps complete with a matching 250ml Lamp Fragrance from the collection. Also new this season, Ashleigh & Burwood have applied their Fragrance Lamp expertise to their vintage inspired range, The Heritage Collection. Complementing the decorative coloured glass Reed Diffusers and painted metal Scented Candles, a range of five jewel coloured Fragrance Lamps in a beautiful swirl effect glass have been added to the collection. The nostalgic fragrances of The Heritage Collection are also available to use in any of the new Fragrances Lamps, or indeed any Fragrance Lamp from Ashleigh & Burwood’s extensive range. Ashleigh & Burwood ensure that every Fragrance Lamp bearing the Ashleigh & Burwood name is made to the same specification, with their uniquely intricate catalytic burner at the heart of the Lamp, and every Lamp Fragrance is made to the same unique and exacting Ashleigh & Burwood formula. It is only this combination of the Ashleigh & Burwood Fragrance Lamp and Lamp Fragrance that has been through the rigors of specialist testing and has proven results, so you can be assured of the efficacy of the product, whether that be a mosaic style, a print pattern style from their Design Anthology or vintage styled design from The Heritage Collection. * Tested by an AIHA/ISO certified independent laboratory, it has been found to destroy up to 60% of surface Parkers / RCoV-P and an average of 97% airborne Parkers / RCoV-P in 30 minutes. This strain of the virus was chosen as it is the most similar coronavirus to the COVID-19 strain, which was not available for commercial testing due to biosecurity.

Call: 01932 267060 Email: cot@ashleigh-burwood.co.uk Visit: ashleigh-burwood.co.uk

28 Gifts Today

www.aromatizetrade.co.uk

Tel: 01254 300268 *LIWV 7RGD\ LQGG

Email: sales@aromatize.co.uk

Home Fragrance

Scent From Suffolk Manor House Home Fragrance

The Autumn and Christmas season may have started a little later this year – postponed to July instead of late May – but despite the delay thanks to the pandemic, Manor House are in full swing and orders are doing well. They launched a range of new fragrances at the start of the year, increasing their amazing British home fragrance collection to their widest ever offering. The collection now covers Pot Pourri, Scented Botanical Candles, Candles in Glass, Diffusers and Room Sprays as well as Drawer Sachets and Liners and more. Despite no physical Autumn Fair to attend, Manor House have continued to grow and gained many new clients over the past few months, some of whom they met back at Spring Fair in February. Since the first lockdown finished, clients have had time to peruse catalogues and come through to ordering, ready for the winter and festive season. Clients are from home and overseas, with strong orders all around which has been great to see. Manor House pride themselves on their products and production techniques. All of their goods are produced by hand in their workrooms in Suffolk, England, using the finest botanicals from around the world but with a strong focus on British packaging and fragrances. Their packaging is recyclable and to create a true handmade in Great Britain product, they use fabrics and hand-woven silks from Suffolk silk mills and ribbons mainly from British companies. The Manor House Home Fragrance Collection made by hand in Suffolk comprises of Pot Pourri and Scented Pine Cones, Scented Botanical Candles, Room Diffusers and Sprays, Drawer Liners and Sachets along with Advent Candles, Luxury Hand Washes, Scented Fabric Bags, Cushions and many more. To see their range and what is happening at Manor House, follow them on social media. Their Facebook page, Manor House Home Fragrance Ltd, Twitter @ManorHouseHome1 and Instagram account, @Manorhousehomefragrance, links the business with their final end customers and features many comments from happy buyers. As they look ahead to 2021 and beyond, the team are working with more leading retailers to produce private label collections which incorporate the client’s thoughts and ideas. The collaboration then sees these ideas combined with fragrances and branding to offer bespoke and unique one-off collections. To find out more about these or any of Manor House’s Home Fragrance collection, get in touch with the team.

Call: 01359 250720 Visit: www.manorhousehomefragrance.co.uk

30 Gifts Today

www.aromatizetrade.co.uk

Tel: 01254 300268

*LIWV 7RGD\ LQGG

Email: sales@aromatize.co.uk

Home Fragrance

Festive Fragrances Price’s Candles

Call: 01234 26450 Email: sales@prices-candles.co.uk Visit: prices-candles.co.uk

All new products are 100% fully refined wax

Price’s Candles are always looking for ways to improve their offering and as such are launching all of the new products with 100% fully refined wax. This is in-keeping with wax trends and designed to supply a purified wax quality for the end consumer which results in a cleaner, even burn. Price’s Candles home fragrance offering can provide a more accessible entry point into the market, with no minimum order quantity, and carriage paid options to keep costs down for smaller outlets. With 13 different ranges, there are a myriad of options for the independent retailer with hundreds of fragrances available in a variety of candle sizes and differing reed diffusers. The company is adding five new fragrances to their Seasonal Fragrance Collection this festive period so you can stave off the winter blues with a cosy assortment of softly glowing scented candles. The range includes Cosy Nights, Moonlight, Seasonal Delights, Gingerbread and Enchanted Forest. The scents perfectly capture the colder, darker months as the temperature drops but the festive season approaches. All five new fragrances come in the Large Jar, Medium Jar, Cluster Jar, Tin and Reed Diffuser. They are beautifully designed with a great range of bold, bright colours to deeper darker shades. The Luxury Range has been designed with richness and opulence in mind. This is reflected in the elegant gift boxes presented with high quality textured packaging and silver foil detailing. The range is a new style for Price’s Candles with four fragrances introduced to coincide with buying for the festive season. With all the high quality you would expect from the company’s products, the range has a contemporary, giftable feel. Fragrances include: Snowdrops and Jasmine, Morning Frost, Spiced Cookies and Winter Warmer. These fragrances all come in a beautiful Boxed Jar and an elegant 100ml Reed Diffuser. Price’s fragrances in their best-selling ‘Seasonal Fragrance Collection’ and ‘Luxury Range’ take all the stress away while putting everyone in the festive spirit with their wintry scents and glimmering packaging. It’s always a bonus when a candle comes in a gorgeous glass that you simply can’t wait to display - these beautiful releases tick that box and cast a glittering golden glow. With a product to suit any budget, these collections will bring a touch of Christmas into any customer’s home.

32 Gifts Today

www.aromatizetrade.co.uk

Tel: 01254 300268 *LIWV 7RGD\ LQGG

Email: sales@aromatize.co.uk

Home Fragrance

The Fab Four! The showrooms for Aromatize, Straits, Woodbridge and Village Candle are open for you 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. Catalogues or a sales representative visit are also available upon request.

Aromatize Ltd Aromatize are the leading UK supplier of home fragrance products. 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.

Call: 01254 300268 Email: sales@aromatize.co.uk Visit: aromatizetrade.co.uk

Village Candle

Straits are pleased to announce the arrival of many new items including their very popular Christmas range for the autumn and winter seasons. Every home decoration category is covered through their varied and vast collections.

Call: 01254 300260 | Email: sales@straitstrading.com | Visit: straitstrading.com

Following the sale of Village Candle to Stonewall Kitchen earlier this year, the new US owners very quickly re-appointed the company responsible for originally growing and developing the brand in the UK. Aromatize are now pleased to be distributing this high-quality collection again and have negotiated improved UK selling prices to be even more competitive in this sector. The collection consists of the ever-popular Traditions range along with the Spa and Fantasy collections. Christmas fragrances are also available in the run up to the festive season.

Call: 01254 300268 | Email: sales@aromatize.co.uk Visit: aromatizetrade.co.uk

Woodbridge Woodbridge are pleased to announce the arrival of their new Apothecary Candle Jars and Wax Melt Packs to complement their ever-popular Soy Candles, reed diffusers, essential oils and Ivory Pillars and Tealights. This new range consists of 32 fragrances and is offered with a perfume load that is unrivalled in the market. No-one offers a more competitive, high-quality wax offer. There is also an opening order promotion available on this collection where a 30% discount or free display unit is offered on every ÂŁ500 order placed (please quote the code below when applying for this offer).

Call: 01254 300268 Email: sales@aromatize.co.uk | Visit: aromatizetrade.co.uk 34 Gifts Today

Home Fragrance

Relaxing Fragrances Katie Loxton

Discover Katie Loxton’s home fragrance and accessories collection designed to pour rest and relaxation into every home this season. Their best-selling Reed Diffusers create the perfect gifting opportunities with thin reeds to bring longerlasting scents to all those who believe their home is their castle, with beautifully boxed designs complete with metallic touches to create a stylish gift. Best-selling Sentiment Candles continue to surprise and delight with sweet sentiments such as ‘Forever Family’ and ‘And Relax’ and with luxe fragrances such as Grapefruit and Pink Peony or White Orchid and Soft Cotton. Katie Loxton’s home accessories collection presents the perfect gifts for this or any other season, delivering a touch of wellness with every beautifully presented design to turn every home into an indoor heavenly retreat.

Visit: jomajewellery.com Visit: Katieloxton.com

Well-Being In A Bag The Wheat Bag Company

The Wheat Bag Company is an established company manufacturing Microwavable Wheat Bags in the UK. The Wheat Bags come in a variety of designs to suit all tastes and are filled with cleaned English wheat and Lavender buds. Lavender does not only smell delightful, is well known for its natural aromatherapy qualities to help aid sleep and relaxation. They are an all over body pillow which simply heats up in the microwave to provide soothing warmth and relaxation and create an overall sense of wellbeing.

Call: 01747 840 499 Email: sales@thewheatbagcompany.co.uk Visit: thewheatbagcompany.co.uk

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Home Fragrance

Get the lowdown on Scented Sachets Heart Of The Country What? Heart of the Country’s Scented Sachets are paper envelopes packed with fragrance that will fragrance a room for up to four months. Each beautifully designed envelope made using recycled paper contains vermiculite, a natural mineral, blended with fragrance oils. Available in over one hundred fragrances in three brands, Greenleaf, Bridgewater Candle Company and Willowbrook Fresh Scents every fragrance taste is catered for. There is a sample sachet in this edition of Gifts Today.

Why? Scented Sachets are eco-friendly, they are 100% biodegradable and made using essential oils. Scented Sachets are safe, with no flame, no heat, no liquid, just fragrance. Scented Sachets are effective, one large sachet will fragrance a room for up to four months. Scented Sachets are economical, with a retail price of £3.95 and a trade price of £1.66.

Which? Top selling and popular fragrances include:Top Seller – Bridgewater’s Sweet Grace – Passionate fruits with sparkling tea and classic patchouli. Winter Favourite – Greenleaf’s Apple Spice and Cinnamon – Traditional apple combined with cinnamon, spice and everything nice. Classic – Classic Linen – The irresistible allure of freshly laundered sheets. Fine fragrance – Cashmere Kiss – Stirring citrus with jasmine and rose and a finish of patchouli and musk. Sentiment Sachet – Little Sparkle – Bergamot and mandarin infused with peach, apricot, and white chocolate.

Who? Greenleaf, Willowbrook and Bridgewater Candle Co Scented Sachets are available in over a thousand locations in the UK. From garden centre groups to department stores, high street chains to independent gift shops, the scented sachet can be sold in any retail environment not only as an impulse buy but a consumable product that keeps your customers coming back for more.

How? With a minimum order of just £100, free displays, POS and sale or return opportunities there has never been a better time to offer scented sachets to your customers.

Where? Heart of the Country are a family run business based in Staffordshire who have been distributing Scented Sachets throughout the UK and Ireland for over thirty years. Heart of the Country Ltd, Swinfen, Lichfield, Staffs, WS14 9QR

Call: 01543 481612 Email: Sales@HeartoftheCountryLtd.co.uk Visit: www.HeartoftheCountryLtd.co.uk 38 Gifts Today

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Home Fragrance

Inspired by Nature St. Eval Nestled on a farm in the heart of North Cornwall, St. Eval are proud to use traditional, artisan methods to craft high-quality candles by hand, perfecting the art and science of candle making for over 25 years. Their unique fragrances are all inspired by nature and the beautiful Cornish countryside and each candle is lovingly crafted using only the finest ingredients and materials from renewable sources. St. Eval’s unique wax and fragrance blends are created for relaxation and enjoyment, perfectly complementing the home. Using a combination of traditional, artisan methods including drawing, pouring and moulding ensures that each candle is made with a personal touch and results in a finished product superior in quality and style. St. Eval produce candles sustainably using energy generated via wind, solar and biomass; helping to reduce their carbon footprint and impact on the environment. With sustainability at the forefront of their focus, their practises and candle collections are continuously evolving to keep with their promise to ‘tread softly on the earth’. This is supported by the reduction of plastics in their packaging and increasing their recycling initiatives, with the aim to be completely plastic-free by 2022. The new year brings exciting changes at St. Eval. To support the plastic-free pledge, they are excited to announce new scented tealight packaging which is launching in January 2021. They are switching to a recyclable kraft box, eliminating plastic from this range completely. It is a change they have worked on for a while and are keen to share with everyone: the same fantastic fragrances and signature St. Eval style, but even better for the planet. This new packaging will sit beautifully alongside their newly reimagined Reed Diffuser packaging which launched in November. Plus, their new Cucumber & Black Pepper fragrance will be joining the Reed Diffuser Collection in January 2021, following the incredible response to this wonderful fresh fragrance. As we look forward to the new year and evocative scents to elevate the home, the Folk Collection is the perfect match. Inspired by the magical beauty of Cornwall, the collection of wild Oak, fresh Moss and honeyed Amber scents will engender great folk stories, awaken imaginations and stir creative souls. Complement the home with rustic coloured pillars and scented tins adorned with an intricate folk-inspired design. Smell is a strong sense, powerfully acting on the limbic part of our brain which controls emotions, memories and stimulation. When we surround ourselves with beautiful scents from nature, we can evoke wonderful feelings, helping to improve both wellbeing and happiness. The team at St. Eval work hard to create collections and fragrances to help create special moments and spark happy memories – that is the essence of a St. Eval candle.

Call: 01841 540850 Email: info@st-eval.com Visit: www.st-eval.com

40 Gifts Today

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27/11/2020 09:30

New products

Fashionable and Functional Lunch Bags Global Journey Call: 0161 872 0333 Visit: global-journey.com

The coolest way to keep kids’ meals fresh. Coolbags are collapsible when empty and compact when full. They are easy to clean and an exciting, fun way to carry kids’ snacks and lunches. These new bright, vibrant and insulated cool bags, personalised with the most popular kids’ names and generic designs are certain to be the hottest and coolest new product for 2021. Retailing for only £4.99 these great new kids lunch bags offer amazing value, with two display options, a personalised range and a generic range on a separate stand (24 titles). With On-Trend designs such as Mermaids, Flamingos, Unicorns, Dinosaurs, Space and Robots, these will have great appeal for all kids aged between 3 and 7.

New Kids Hand Sanitisers 2021 42 Gifts Today

Global Journey’s new and fun children’s hand sanitisers are an essential product for all little hands. These scented, non sticky, antibacterial pocket/bag sized hand gels, are a perfect pick up line retailing for only £2.99. Ideal to attach to school bags, lunch bags, keep in a pocket, or clipped to belts, these cool and trendy hand sanitisers are a must-have item for children of all ages. There are 72 names and 24 fun generic designs with themes including; Football, Flamingos, Superheroes, Mermaids and Unicorns. There are two display options, a 96-pocket spinner holding 72 names and 24 generic designs, and a 24-pocket table top display that holds 24 generic titles only.

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A glimpse of some of Gisela Graham’s 1500 new products for Christmas 2021

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New products

Looking Forward GB Eye

2020 Success

This also links into our inAs we reach the end of 2020, GB house production of mugs and eye Ltd would like to thank all frames which provides many our customers and business opportunities to reduce partners, new and longstanding, wastage and develop longfor all their support through 2020 has also seen incredible term relationships with ethical such a challenging year. 2021 success for Pokémon which has partners, helping us make will bring new challenges but been one of the biggest sellers of the year and our gifting changes to our products with so much going on and our range has gone from strength and working practices for a 35th anniversary celebrations, to strength, we have a fantastic sustainable future. we have plenty to look forward range of products available 2020 has also seen incredible to. now and lots more to success for Pokémon which has Top of our agenda is to continue come in 2021. been one of the biggest sellers of the the focus on environmentallyyear and our gifting range has gone from friendly products, we are seeing a growing strength to strength, we have a fantastic range of demand and awareness for eco-friendly licensed products available now and lots more to come in 2021. products from many customers. Our recently launched The coming year is a challenge we are certainly ready eco bottles and tote bags have laid a strong foundation for. With a wealth of top licenses, a fantastic product for us to build on and there is plenty more to come. range available all year round and many lines produced Featuring the most popular brands such as Harry on demand, we are ready to deliver just what you need. Potter, Friends, PlayStation and Peaky Blinders, our Ben Woodman, Head of Licensing, sees a bright year eco bottles are high-quality stainless steel and 100% ahead, “as a company we have been working extremely recyclable, while our tote bags also have excellent hard towards sustainability, both as a business and environmental credentials and both are printed locally in the products we produce. It’s great to offer the and finished to the highest standards. consumer eco-friendly merchandise for the brands they love. Having successfully launched at retail this year, we look forward to building the range further in 2021.” All our great licenses are represented across a wide range of formats on our website so take a look at our complete range online.

Call: 01142 767 454 Visit: www.gbeye.com

44 Gifts Today

View our new range of eco products at

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12/11/2020 14:04:09

New products Got It Covered Museums & Galleries

Developed and rushed into production this summer, Museums & Galleries’ new face coverings proved a massive hit with customers and the company was thrilled with the demand for its fine art designs, sourced from and developed with its national museum licenses. So much so that M&G moved quickly to increase the range by another 11 designs, to become available in the next few weeks. The coverings have a suggested retail price of £9.99. These face coverings are only the company's second foray into fabric-based products, after the success of their pencil cases which were launched at the Spring Fair, and M&G is thrilled with the superb quality of the colour printing and construction of the coverings. The face coverings are made out of 100% cotton, pleated and cut for a better facial fit, and digitally printed with a full-colour design on the front and contrast colour on the reverse and features adjustable elastic straps. The coverings have a pocket for filters and come with a matching cotton bag for hygienic storage. They are machine washable at 60 degrees. The new face coverings include two new Arts & Crafts designs from the V&A, Mrs Delany’s ever-popular flowers from the British Museum (a consistent best seller on stationery), and four designs from the British Library. For the first time, there are facial coverings featuring designs by contemporary artists and designers – Cressida Bell, Dee Hardwicke, and Robert Gillmor. M&G's original promise to make facial coverings stylish and fun is certainly bearing fruit. The full range is available in a counter top display unit.

Call: 01373 462165 email: sales@mgmk.co.uk Visit: www.museumsgalleries.co.uk

46 Gifts Today

The new face coverings include two new Arts & Crafts designs from the V&A, Mrs Delany’s everpopular flowers from the British Museum

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26/08/2020 11:22:36

New products

A Brighter Future Parlane

2020 has certainly been a year of challenges, and that was certainly the case for Parlane. After being put in Administration in May, the future was not bright for the well-loved brand, despite celebrating its 50th birthday earlier in the year, but as all fairy tales go, this story has a happy ending. Light & Living, a well-established Dutch lighting and home accessories company, saw the potential in Parlane and in June this year, successfully completed the asset sale of the business, and formed a new company “Parlane Living Ltd”. Employing as many of the original staff as possible, to maintain the unique handwriting and style of Parlane, Parlane Living is now very much looking forward to a much brighter future. The newly launched Parlane Spring/Summer collection is one of the strongest collections launched to date, which is a testimony to the talented team at Parlane and their determination to come back stronger than ever. Not many companies in these times would then undertake a complete showroom rebuild, but this is what has been going on behind-the-scenes for the past few months. The Parlane showroom, based in Bourton on the Water, Gloucestershire, is proud to open its new UK showroom not only for the Parlane brand, but also a new showroom for Light & Living too. With over 600m of showroom space, customers can now browse (observing all social distance measures) both brands, take inspiration from the new Parlane Living Spring/Summer 2021 collection, and be inspired by the dynamic collection from Light & Living too.

Call: 01451 812 712 | Email: sales@parlane.co.uk

48 Gifts Today

The showroom opened in November, and has been visited by many customers already, all of which have been extremely impressed with the transformation of the showroom, and the ability to view both collections. The showroom remains open to customers, by appointment only, and to arrange a visit you need only to call your account manager or the Parlane sales office. For those customers who might not be able to travel, the Parlane and Light & Living collections can also be viewed by our new Digital Personal Shopper service. How does this work? It’s very simple, you simply schedule an appointment with your account manager, who will then call you via Zoom at the agreed time. This provides an advantage that multiple people can take part in the tour, from different locations! You’re free to invite your shop manager, business partner or anyone else! The digital tour uses a Gimbal, which ensures a very smooth visual tour of the showroom, and as it’s live, so you can ask questions as you view, direct the camera to show close ups of any products you wish – you are in the driving seat! This is one of the many ways Parlane and Light & Living are trying to help customers in these challenging times, and with the lack of trade shows in Spring next year, we can certainly offer an exciting and inspirational experience to all our customers. Curious to find out more? Then get in contact with us to book your appointment (virtually or in person) to come and visit. The showroom has all COVID-19 safety measures in place to ensure the safety of all customers and staff.

All the Colours of the Rainbow Joe Davies

Call: 0161 975 6300 Email: sales@joedavies.co.uk Visit: www.joedavies.co.uk

Rainbow Angels

The rainbow has become an icon the world over, becoming a symbol of hope and comfort, helping lift everyone’s spirits during the lockdown and pandemic. With this in mind, Joe Davies have introduced their brand-new beautiful rainbow themed angel figurines a combination of a colourful soft rainbow and cloud with their bestselling angel figurines. These lovely keepsake figurines each have a rainbow themed sentiment message making them the perfect gift for anyone. There are twelve designs to choose from with heartfelt messages for Mum, family, friends and even just messages of hope and positivity to brighten someone’s day. With a great retail price point of £9 - £10 they are sure to be a hit.

Snoozies!® Face coverings Joe Davies’ wide range of snoozies!® face coverings offer fashionable and washable options to help give safety confidence for customers while they are out and about. They have also got the festive season covered with glitz and sequins for party time and fun Christmas characters for the Christmas period. Available in an array of designs, there are printed patterns allowing co-ordination with outfits and solid colours which are great for everyday wear. These reusable and fashionable masks are made of 3 ply layers, from high quality fabrics that are super soft making them extremely comfortable to wear. The nose and straps are adjustable giving that perfect fit. These will make great gifting ideas for customers and the family. These colourful ranges and many more exciting gifts are available from Joe Davies who love to work with independent retailers. Customer service is at the heart of everything Joe Davies do whether it is their minimum order value of £100 for nationwide delivery or the trademark little and often ordering system, buying from Joe Davies could not be easier.

Gifts Today 47

New products What’s up Gisela Graham’s sleeve for 2021? Gisela Graham

To cheer us all up for Christmas 2021 Gisela Graham presents over 1200 new products and 15 new themed collections. Despite the lockdowns the design team she presides over has just carried on designing. As usual, she manages to brings a fresh new look to standard Christmas genres. So, her 2021 Woodland concept (berries, twigs, cones) highlights the woodland’s dwellers: divine, very collectible fairies. The popular American Country style look is applied to the Twelve Days of Christmas concept with sweetly naïve wood figures. The roses and pink ballerina figures for her “Sleeping Beauty” will touch hearts. As ever too, she springs surprises like her “Noble Creatures”, green and gold Christmas jungle theme: shimmering sub-aqua colours in “Atlantis”; or turning original William Morris prints into a fun patchwork collection. Each collection embraces a broad range of merchandise: besides tree trims, she blends in scores of very giftable Christmas ceramics, kitchenware, crackers featuring her own designs, candles and candleholders, fabric animals/sitabouts, garlands, wreaths, faux flowers and room decorations. Plus, wonderful eye-catching display pieces for shop window dressing. See it all – plus the new everyday Gift and Spring ranges at her London showroom from December 2020 – or one of sales team can visit with videos and pictures.

Visit: www.giselagraham.co.uk

Sleepwear Xmas Gifts

A Gift From The Gods

Christmas is the peak season for sleepwear gifts and A Gift From The Gods have a collection to tick the items off the list. The collection includes purple Satin Pyjamas gift-wrapped in branded ribbon as well as stocking filler lace lingerie bralet and brief gift sets. These compact items neatly and attractively merchandise in a stacked festive display with no need for hangers as strut cards are provided. For the 2020 Christmas season, they have a special wholesale offer for both items for gift stores considering expanding their seasonal product range. Lockdown has also boosted sales of loungewear and pyjamas as people work from home in comfort and this trend is expected to continue in various forms into the new year, so adding loungewear to your offer generates extra sales.

Email: jane@agiftfromthegods.com Visit: www.agiftfromthegods.com

50 Gifts Today

We donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have a crystal ball...

â&#x20AC;ŚBut we do h have b beautiful tif l li licensed d cards, d notecards, journals, gift stationery, dated product, travel mugs, pencil cases, and more. And crystal paperweights.

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Tel: 01373 462165

New products

Perfectly Personalised Personalised Memento Company

Looking ahead to 2021, the Personalised Memento Company (PMC) have a huge selection of new products. PMC offer a wide range of 5000 personalised gifts, all drop-shipped with contactless delivery. They offer tailored integration of personalised gifts for their customer portfolio; ranging from small independents to large multiple retailers.

Personalised Rose Gold Trinket Box A modern take on a traditional gift, this gorgeous rose gold trinket box is personalised for anyone needing a unique place to store their jewellery. The trinket box features a fabric lining to keep its content safe. What’s more, PMC offer an amazing array of gifts, meaning you will also be able to find many jewellery pieces to compliment it!

Personalised ‘If you need a hug’ Teddy Send someone a hug with this cute teddy bear. The message on the jumper is personalised, an ideal gift for those you know needing a cuddle. PMC have a huge range of thinking of you gifts, all with the option to add your own special message.

Personalised LED Lantern Personalised LED Lanterns combine luxury gifting with innovative design to suit all homes. Each lantern features a design to the front panel is personalised with a message, perfect for Mother’s Day, Birthday or even a gift for yourself. The top of the lantern features a hoop and is battery powered, allowing it to be hung around the home and create a charming rustic effect. The LED candle inside creates a warming glow, perfect for an evening at home.

Personalised LED Table Bulb Lamp Hotly tipped as the bright new product for 2021 is this Personalised LED bulb table lamp from PMC. It features a solid beech wood base, screw in industrial style bulb and on/off switch. What’s more, because it is battery powered it can be used anywhere around the home or office. There are 5 designs to choose from, you are sure to find the perfect design for every personality or occasion. PMC have been personalising gifts for nearly 17 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. PMC have been working hard in recent months to introduce personalisation preview with all their products. The company said, “Now trade customers can preview personalisation messages on the product pages of our trade portal. This can be easily integrated into any retail website too - a simple way to convert even more sales. With demand for personalised gifts snowballing, the consumer is more likely to purchase knowing how their gift will look.” The announcement comes amid record breaking sales and a bumper Christmas for its online retailers. Visit PMC’s trade website to discover how personalised gifts can work for your business.

Email: sales@personalisedmemento.co.uk Visit: www.personalisedmemento.co.uk Follow: Instagram: @personalisedmemento 52 Gifts Today

Present Time Present Time has 30 years’ experience in accessories, gift items, clocks, small furniture and lighting, offering an inspirational combination of Dutch and Danish design.

With an HQ based in the Netherlands, Present Time is active in more than 80 countries across the world, where you can find their products in the world's most famous department stores and exclusive gift shops. ‘At Present Time, we pride ourselves on bringing the trends into the home décor world,’ says Luke Felton, Country Manager UK and Ireland. ‘Our roots in design are Dutch, however as our Managing Director is Danish, this also brings a combination of Scandinavian design in to our collection. It’s quite unique. ‘We have been active in the UK market for over 25 years and pride ourselves in ease of use and great customer service, whether it’s from our agents on the road, myself, or our back oﬃce support in Almere, Netherlands.

‘We work with international designers to create inspirational designs aimed at the mid-market. Our creative department travels the world to surprise everybody with new collections twice a year: the spring/summer collection comes out in January and the autumn/ winter collection is launched in August. ‘We use 10-20 Pantone colours for each season, and this is used throughout our entire collection of Karlsson clocks, Leitmotiv furniture and lighting and Present Time home décor items. The relationship between all categories allows us to tell a story and bring beautiful lifestyle images that excites the market. ‘We have recently launched our new AW20 collection with over 350 new lines. You can view all of this on our website.’

Call: 07975 597855 Email: Luke Felton lf@presenttime.com Visit: presenttime.com

‘We have been active in the UK market for over 25 years and pride ourselves in ease of use and great customer service’ Gifts Today 53

RETAIL INTERVIEW:

Crocodile

Packing up the plastic Cirencester shop Crocodile took the opportunity during lockdown to fully commit to a plastic-free policy. Naomi MacKay talks to co-owner Mark Mitchell to find out more Can you tell us a little about the history of the shop? Crocodile is a well-established brand that has occupied a place in The Cirencester Woolmarket for more than 40 years. It was always associated with tradition and quality. My wife Sarah and I purchased Crocodile from the original owners (the Stringfellows) around 12 years ago. I am a designer and cabinet maker by trade and Sarah had an educational background. We have three children who are now nearly all teenagers. We purchased in the middle of a recession, but believed we could bring something different to the table, gradually taking a well-known brand further into a specialist and refined area. How did you come to the decision to be completely plastic free? The aim was always to bring things back to basics and encourage the public to rethink their approach to buying toys. We personally 54 Gifts Today

believe the industry is one of the worst culprits for encouraging waste and damage to our environment, and that the industry has lost touch with its need to produce and promote products that will actively enhance a childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s development through play and experience. We strongly believe that the public are now very receptive to this message and to ignore it, whether or not it is personally important to you, will eventually lead to your product losing its appeal and position in the marketplace. We actively encourage our customers to buy less, but to buy well, with integrity and full purpose in everything we sell. What sort of response to your plasticfree commitment have you had from customers? We have had a growing army of customers actively searching for a company that embraces our policy. The plan is to strengthen our position as an ethical

retailer, ensuring that all products are rigorously chosen for their purpose, integrity and life. We have decided to take this opportunity to stand firm and clear on Plastic Free status and to define our brand absolutely for that. This situation has simply sped up a process of change that was happening anyway - any retailer trying to accommodate everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sector under one roof is going to struggle and eventually fall. The customer wants to see a lot more knowledge and understanding of their product from any retailer. Have you seen the average cost of your products go up? And if so, how willing have customers been to pay more in order to be more eco friendly? I would say our approach is actually cheaper for our customers and on the whole if you put total effort into your sourcing and work alongside your suppliers there is no need for the prices to rise unreasonably compared with inflation.

Can you tell us some of your favourite plastic-free brands/products? Prime examples of our clear and close relationships with suppliers are: Indigo Jamm, Petit Collage from Wild & Wolf, Orchard Toys, Lankakade, Play Press Toys, Apples To Pears, and Play In Choc.

your brand and speciality, your suppliers will find you. For me everything starts and finishes with the quality and integrity of the product and supplier, forming a close and genuine working relationship with them over a long period - your specialist products will always find you if you are specialised enough.

What products have been particularly popular with your customers? They are all evenly received, but we actively collate all our products in a unified and blended way, without division for age. The simple rule is, if it has no purpose, longevity and integrity and we believe it might be dismissed after a short period of time, we will not sell it.

As we have just entered another lockdown could you tell us how you will be getting product to consumers during this month, and any other plans you have in place in case lockdown continues until Christmas (fingers crossed that it doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t!) We have had our own .com website for many years now. Up until now it has primarily been used by our customers for research purposes, before they make the journey to visit the shop in person. So we are now putting some effort to encourage the public to use that forum to purchase from us, rather than

Is there anything you havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t been able to source that you would like to find? Yes, plastic free science toys. How have you managed to source the right suppliers, and with the outlook poor for trade shows over the next few months, how will you find and build relationships with the right suppliers? I believe if you are clear and absolute about

going straight to the Amazon option. We use social media to spread the message in a gentle but genuine way, together with any press reports offered. There is no doubt that without the large budget of a chain store, we have an uphill battle, but the very fact that we are small and specialised gets our message received more readily through channels such as Instagram.

Gifts Today 39

New products

Gifts That’ll Rock Your Windows Wild Things Gifts

Even with the focus shifting to online trade during this tumultuous year, the window display remains king. Retailers who overlook this powerful part of the customer journey do so at their peril, because even if the door is closed, potential customers still routinely engage with what may be the greatest opportunity to drive sales. The right stock coupled with a strong directive on where to buy it – be that online or when the store is next open – can make all the difference. With this in mind, Wild Things Gifts have put together a window-ready package of items that always perform well during the Christmas period, incorporating an impressive amount of stock for a discounted price. The twelve designs featured in the Winter Window Parcel have consistently landed in the bestseller list every December, with gifts like the Crystal Fantasy Robin capturing the spirit of the season while items from the Rainbow Collection take on a new significance given the events of 2020. The package includes between two and six of each design – 39 items in total – and includes gift packaging. At just £199.99 for the entire assortment (usually £233), the Winter Window Parcel is an affordable way to stock up on proven sellers and add a little sparkle to your gift display.

Call: 01392 211268 Visit: wildthingsgifts.com Follow: Facebook and Instagram: @wildthingsgiftsltd

56 Gifts Today

SHARE YOUR DISPLAY

TO WIN

Wild Things Gifts are also championing the humble retail display with a giveaway – if you’ve got a display worth celebrating and it features Wild Things products, share it on your social media channels and tag them in or use the hashtag #wildthingsgiveaway. The most creative, jawdropping and awe-inspiring display will land its owner the Tree of Life collection featuring all four seasons. The contest will be held throughout December and judging will take place on January 5th – get sharing, and good luck!

Gifts of Random Kindness Rex London

Rex London is the home of beautifully designed contemporary, retro and vintage inspired homeware, toys and gifts - perfect for every occasion, and every non-occasion. They call them Gifts of Random Kindness: beautiful products that your customers can afford to give whenever they want. Not only because they'll bring joy, but because they've priced them so beautifully that you can treat your customers with equally beautifully priced products. Since their humble beginnings in 1981 as a simple stall in London’s Portobello market, they have since gone on to receive the Queen’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade in 2019, following many years of outstanding overseas growth. Now, featuring award-winning prints that are designed by their in-house team, their comprehensive collection has something for everyone – all at prices customers love.

Wild Wonders Teepee Tent Whether they're quietly reading inside or dreaming up wonderful makebelieve adventures, playtime (or downtime) can always be magical in this bright and cheery Wild Wonders teepee tent - great for garden parties, picnics and bedrooms. Matching Wild Wonders children's accessories are also available.

Reusable Snack Bags We can all do our bit to combat climate change, and one popular way to make a difference is to remove single-use plastic from our daily lives. One simple solution are these brand-new reusable snack bags - made from BPA-free plastic they come with resealable openings to keep food as fresh as possible. Packaged in a set of three, they can even go in the dishwasher! Also available in three Wild Wonders characters, Cookie the Cat design and the Space Age print.

Easy-clean Kids Accessories Stock matching sets of new kids’ pencil cases, wallets and washbags - made from waterproof oilcloth, they are easy to wipe clean, which is ideal for kids’ accessories. Choose from Space Age, Prehistoric Land, Wild Wonders or Butterfly Garden prints.

Portable Bluetooth Speaker Add a splash of colour to bathrooms with a portable bluetooth speaker that is water resistant and has a suction cup to attach it to the wall. Perfect for playing something soothing during a relaxing bath, or for blaring upbeat tracks in the shower to get the day off to an energetic start.

Call: +44 (0)20 8746 1700 | Email: info@rexlondon.com Visit: rexlondontrade.com

From a Galaxy Far Far Away Puckator

Don’t miss your shot for some out of the galaxy Christmas products this festive season! Puckator are debuting their new, Original Stormtrooper from Shepperton Design Studios, gifts for 2020 and we can’t wait to get hold of them. Featuring the popular characters in farcical poses ready to spread festive cheer, these designs are guaranteed to be a sure-fire hit! Looking towards the future and the issue of sustainability these designs can fittingly be found on Puckator’s top selling Bamboo composite travel mugs. These mugs are made from the recycled offcuts of chopsticks and can be used time and time again. Bamboo is one of the fastest growing renewable materials on the planet and with over 500 billion coffee cups discarded each year, every little change counts. Spread some galactic cheer this Christmas and end 2020 as we mean to go on, protecting the environment and supporting innovative ways of making sustainable giftware. Get these products on your radar today.

Call: 0800 011 6969 Email: customerservices@puckator.co.uk Visit: www.puckator.co.uk Gifts Today 57

Trade talk

Helen Flook

Sales Manager – Marmalade of London How are you managing the latest lockdown, are you doing things differently this time around?

Simon Pykett Country Manager – Bloomingville How are you managing the latest lockdown, are you doing things differently this time around? Of course, this new lockdown whilst understandable, is different to the last one. Firstly, we already know an end date but secondly we know what to expect. With the first lockdown we had to be innovative and work around the issue which led to many Bloomingville customers setting up new web shops and organising click and collect. So, it’s different this time around, our customers have already done the groundwork plus for many we have their home addresses so can deliver there if needs be. We didn’t want a second lockdown but we were ready when it came. The time has long passed to worry about online competition, we need to embrace the opportunities that online trading brings.

Is the situation having any impact on your Christmas Trade? For Bloomingville no because most of our Christmas orders had already left, however for retailers of course the impact will be negative. I hope of course that after lockdown we see a busy high street with consumers wanting to make up for November’s store closures with a flurry of last-minute purchases.

Tips for retailers for after lockdown is lifted? I’m sorry to bring up the subject but ‘deal or no deal’? Parallel to all that has been happening, Brexit is upon us. We all hope for a smooth transition but we may have to face some delays in January. So, order now and take delivery in December of what you feel you will need in January 2021. Bloomingville are Brexit ready, whatever the future trading agreement, but we do need all of our customers to obtain and communicate to us their Economic Operators Registration and Identification number (EORI). It’s easy to apply (https://www.gov.uk/eori) but they should do so soon as possible as it can take up to a week to get one. Now is the time to do it.

What are your plans for Spring 2021 with no physical trade shows? Bloomingville are looking at a number of options ranging from a mobile showroom and a more permanent one for the UK. We also have a virtual showroom which you can explore on your laptop.

What are your feelings about retail and business post-pandemic/post-Brexit? I am very optimistic for the ‘Home’ category. Bloomingville’s 2020 performance has broken all records in the UK and I don’t see this changing in 2021. We have planned well, we have stock, whereas much of our competition does not, and our business is built on a portfolio of small to medium independent retailers who seem to have had a boost from local consumers not wishing to go back to the big towns and cities yet. I welcome questions from customers or potential customers.

Our amazing stockists are being supported by their customers, who are ordering on their websites and phoning in orders to Click and Collect, so we are staying open to build stock and fill all the orders rushing in.

Is the situation having any impact on your Christmas Trade? We are busier than ever, the public are going out of their way to support the independent retailers, and are looking to purchase items that are manufactured in the UK.

Tips for retailers for after lockdown is lifted? You must have stock, its key getting the sales for Christmas, we strongly believe the general public want to support you and will arrive in droves when you open. We have no minimum order value (however box sizes do apply) and we are covering carriage to do our bit to help retailers out at this time.

What are your plans for Spring 2021 with no physical trade shows? We are going to miss the trade shows as we love doing them, we get to meet our stockists and it becomes a social event as well as work. We are looking at creating some new virtual showrooms.

What are your feelings about retail and business postpandemic/post-Brexit? We are confident about retail post-pandemic as people are putting even more time into making sure they have the best possible environment at home. Marmalade of London produces high quality products with stunning fragrances that fill people’s homes.

Matthew Shaw

Sales Director – Puckator How are you managing the latest lockdown, are you doing things differently this time around? We have learnt a lot from the first lockdown, and probably the most important thing is, Don’t Panic! We will be open through this lockdown as we were in the first, and from a business point of view, the second lockdown is substantially different, as at this time of year we supply much more to online retail, which is currently booming. In addition, many of our “bricks and mortar” retailers have websites and have innovated selling products on a click and collect basis and also via social media, this has meant sales for the second lockdown have stayed similar to last year. Our most difficult challenge is packing and despatching the volume of orders we get at this time of year, whilst adhering to social distancing and keeping staff safe.

Is the situation having any impact on your Christmas Trade? I think this year it has just meant the percentage of orders that are been sold online is higher than last year.

Tips for retailers for after lockdown is lifted? I think making sure retailers are well stocked with new and exciting products.

What are your plans for Spring 2021 with no physical trade shows? We are planning to run a number of appointment-based showroom events across the UK and Europe, starting in early December at our Sheffield Showroom.

What are your feelings about retail and business post-pandemic/ post-Brexit? We still remain pretty optimistic. We see trade bouncing back for High Street Shops and product will be king. If you have the right products, the sales will follow. 58 Gifts Today

Charlotte Gillan

Managing Director – Classic Canes How are you managing the latest lockdown, are you doing things differently this time around?

Lockdown II is much the same for us as last time: as a family business we are trading as normal from our safe hideout far from anyone in the depths of Somerset. Despatches are leaving promptly and around 95% of the product range is in stock.

Is the situation having any impact on your Christmas Trade? Yes; with so many gift shops shut for November, they are delaying their orders and it remains to be seen how much they will order when they re-open. However, we are fortunate to supply many garden centres, pharmacies, internet and mail order retailers, who are trading more or less as normal at the time of writing, so their requirements are keeping us busy.

Tips for retailers for after lockdown is lifted? It is a great opportunity to tempt shoppers back into physical stores. People will be craving a bit of chat and the chance to stumble upon exciting products they would never have thought to Google during lockdown. Make it fun!

What are your plans for Spring 2021 with no physical trade shows? I don’t think it is a big problem. Even before the pandemic, far more of our new customers were finding us through the internet and word-ofmouth than through trade fairs. Many of our best customers haven’t turned up at a trade fair for years but are still in touch with us often and are still very well-informed about our new products. We will contact our existing customers as normal and will be putting our name out there – anyone who is interested in walking sticks will be able to find us.

What are your feelings about retail and business post-pandemic/post-Brexit? So much remains to be clarified about Brexit, but with both issues, we have to remember that the public will still want to buy things, just as they have done for thousands of years. A good product at a fair price will still appeal. There will be a period of adjustment of course, but we are optimistic that when the dust settles, the ingenuity and entrepreneurship of our industry will see us through.

Paul Hooker

Commercial Director – Joe Davies How are you managing the latest lockdown? We supply the whole of the UK and Ireland, so have remained open to support those customers that are allowed to trade; such as Garden Centres, Post Offices, Chemists, online retailers and those offering Click and Collect. In addition, Scottish, Welsh and Irish retailers are trading under different restrictions, with many being able to accept deliveries.

Is the situation having any impact on your Christmas Trade? Demand has remained strong with those that can trade, but no restriction is welcome for any retailer or supplier, especially at this time of year.

Tips for retailers for after lockdown is lifted? Our number one tip would be to speak with your suppliers and order up your requirements before opening again. If the lockdown lifts as planned early December, it’s very likely the first week back will see increased demand and the last thing retailers will want is to be waiting for deliveries. Non-essential retailers are permitted to receive deliveries during lockdown, so perhaps arrange these for the week before so you are ready to go.

What are your plans for Spring 2021 with no physical shows? At Joe Davies we are huge supporters of exhibitions and no Spring Fair is a big blow, that said, trade must go on. We’re busy developing new products as usual and have some super plans for helping our customers find them. Our website is one of the best in the business, we have a fantastic team of Sales Representatives and, restrictions permitting, we will host an ‘At Home’ show in place of Spring Fair. All that said, we can’t wait to see our customers again at Trade Shows and we’ll be back as soon as they are allowed again.

What are your feelings about retail and business postpandemic/post-Brexit? One thing we have learnt is just how innovative, hard-working and dedicated Independent Retailers are. We’re very lucky to be a part of such a vibrant industry. No matter what the challenges we remain positive for the future and ready to support our customers.

PJ Xmas Gifts sales@mygiftstrade.co.uk 0161 946 1234 www.agiftfromthegods.com

Gifts Today 59

New products

Best of British Moocow Studios

Moocow Studios print and manufacture an extensive range of products. They have a wealth of experience in the giftware industry, all of which bring something different to the mix. They design and produce their items in their East Sussex HQ and are also proud of their work with various local and national charities. Moocow Studios obtained the licence for Dick Twinney’s Know Your Dog range earlier this year, with the launch delayed until now due to Covid-19. The range has 50 dogs, from old faithfuls to breeds that have become extremely popular over the last few years. Moocow also offers a wide range of impulse buys for the Christmas period and beyond. Check out their festive range of wooden Christmas cards and wooden tree hangers. There are also some great 3D wooden fridge magnets that are 100% recyclable unlike the resin variety. UK manufacturing at its best, available in low quantities. Be also sure to check out their two ranges that are ideal for Christmas – Sue Podbery Country Artist and Mike Jackson’s Quirky World. Sue’s paintings are a reminder of the farming that many people grew up with – featuring barns, cart sheds, hedges and day-to-day farm clutter that she knew well. She paints in watercolour and gouache, with lots of pen work. Mike Jackson’s illustrations are now available on bespoke coasters and fridge magnets, textiles, pens, key rings and more for the tourism, souvenir and promotional industries. Moocow Studios offer UK manufacturing at it best – not relying on overseas imports and available in low quantities. The company is constantly developing new products and is reactive to customer needs.

Call: 01424 310057 Email: sales@moocowstudios.co.uk Visit: moocowstudios.co.uk

60 Gifts Today

For more information contact T: 0121 459 9777 | E: simon@fmgsales.co.uk Simon Carswell | E: oli@fmgsales.co.uk Oli Woodyatt

Alice Wheeler London.indd 1

01/12/2020 11:46

instyle

Dressing Table Luxe Joma Jewellery For those looking to add a touch of luxe to their dressing table, Katie Loxton have designed stylish Jewellery Boxes to help safely stash away special pieces of jewellery. Available in an assortment of chic colourways, each Jewellery Box features gold-tone hardware and suedette linings, perfect to add a touch of glamour while keeping prized possessions safe and accessible. From the statement larger design to home a full jewellery collection, to a compact small zipped design for the girl on-the-go, there’s something for everyone and jewellery collections of all shapes and sizes.

Visit: jomajewellery.com Visit: Katieloxton.com

Colourful Canes Walking stick specialist Classic Canes is ready to launch a collection of adjustable folding canes in a range of exclusive new patterns designed by managing director, Charlotte Gillan. The new folding canes are ready to be in stock for Christmas. The derby-handled canes feature colourful patterns inspired by animals and nature. The designs include ladybirds, bees, British songbirds, small dogs, big dogs, British owls, gardening, and horses and ponies of Britain and Ireland. And for the more exotic, there is also a new leopard print and a new snow leopard print. All of the canes are height adjustable from 82 to 92cm, making them suitable for a wide range of users. They are also very popular and convenient as gifts. Charlotte Gillan explains, “Patterned walking sticks are always popular with our customers and these new ones are designed to appeal to popular interests. I greatly enjoyed painting the original artwork for them. Many of our customers know me personally so it is an additional selling point for them that they know the artist as well as providing a high-quality product that is unique to Classic Canes.” The canes were due to be launched at the Autumn Trade Fairs, but when these events were cancelled, Charlotte decided to proceed anyway in the hope that stockists would add the novel designs to their Christmas stock programmes. “Product and lifestyle photography are available to our account holders and we look forward to seeing the response to these latest additions to our 700+ strong range of walking sticks, seat sticks and umbrellas,” added Charlotte.

Call: 01460 75686 | Email: info@classiccanes.co.uk Visit: classiccanes.co.uk

Spotted! Pandemics and lockdowns aren’t stopping the team at Alexander Thurlow as they have brought out a gorgeous new range of flower charms to add to their ‘Love Nature, Love Flowers’ collection. The charms are the perfect way for nature lovers to add a floral element to their daily outfit. There’s no need to choose your favourite blossom, the collection allows you to have the whole flowerbed on your wrist. What’s more, with each flower holding their own symbolic meaning, these exquisite pieces make for perfect gift items. All hand designed with nature in mind, Alexander Thurlow have a charm range to be proud of. Visit their website today to start building your collection.

Call: 020 8766 6466 Visit: www.alexanderthurlow.com

S PRIN G IS CALLING ! To celebrate the start of a new season at Katie Loxton, we’ve created our most refreshing and uplifting collection yet! Our home fragrances are ready and waiting to pour rest and relaxation into every home this season with fresh fragrances such as Pomelo and Lychee Flower, while our brand-new Mini Sentiment Sets and Trinket Dishes deliver the perfect gifting moments. Similarly, at Joma Jewellery, brand-new charms and sweet sentiments join our bestselling ‘A Littles’ collection to create the most special and personalised gifting opportunities. Our SS21 collections have been created to captivate! DISCOVER OUR WORLD AT WHOLESALE.KATIELOXTON.COM | WHOLESALE.JOMAJEWELLERY.COM

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The Alice Wheeler Autumn Collection! The latest autumnal collection from Alice Wheeler London has landed and it is full of luxurious beauty and fashion accessories that were inspired by Alice’s fabulous finds and ideas from her many travels. Oli Woodyatt and Simon Carswell tell us more about the brand and the new designs.

Tell us more about Alice Wheeler London? Alice Wheeler London is part of FMG Ltd, a British family business based in Birmingham, and an established design and manufacturer of beauty accessories for over 88 years. Alice’s mission is “to design to the finest quality without compromise incorporating unique points of difference and luxury always” this is paramount to Alice and can be seen throughout her 2020 collection and the latest Autumn/Winter designs.

How did the brand start? Alice Wheeler is totally new. The story began with a capsule launch of beauty accessories, introduced in Autumn 2019, and was a huge success. This year has seen the introduction of a fabulous Spring and Summer collection of vegan friendly PU leather textures, beautifully designed pressed velvet cosmetic bags with all of the designs co-ordinating across four colourways – Sage, Blush Pink, Cool Grey and Classic Black. All of the range also incorporates Alice’s signature honey bee logo. FMG has over four decades experience designing accessories for the beauty sector. Through Alice’s creative and commercial eye, we are extending our categories combining fashion accessories and beauty gift sets to create a fabulous magnification mirror and travel case set, which would make a perfect gift or something special to treat to yourself.

What’s new for Autumn? Autumn sales have been encouraging, exceeding our expectations despite the challenges we are all having to endure with COVID. We are over the moon with the strong reaction we have received from retail and buyers for Alice’s new Autumn/Winter collection and continue to push boundaries with our design, styles and the materials we use. We believe its all about fine detail and quality which is seen throughout the latest quilted range of beauty and fashion designs and a cool range of Croc PU leather.

What is in the Autumn Collection? We’ve focused on three main colours this Autumn, Mulberry, Midnight and Navy. This is a luxury collection of vegan friendly materials, co-ordinating with pressed velvet cosmetic bags. The collection comprises of beauty and fashion accessories including a fabulous range of tote bags, cross body, clutches and coordinating quilted purses. Alice has added further giftable lines to include a quilted multi-compartment jewellery box and the elegant dual-textured quilted vanity case incorporating internal snap pockets, which is a generous size to accommodate all your essentials.

What’s next for Alice Wheeler? We are excited for the future and have a fabulous selection for Spring/Summer 2021 already in place and many more categories being introduced next year. We have a new website for Alice, which is just having some finishing touches, and our virtual showroom will be up and ready very soon. Also, Alice would like to say a huge thanks to all who have been part of our journey so far, and there’s plenty of room on the train if you’d like to jump on board….wooohooo!

Call: 0121 459 9777 | Email: office@fmgsales.co.uk 64 Gifts Today

INTRODUCING TEN EXCLUSIVE NEW PATTERNS

Over 700 models in stock. Please contact us for a trade catalogue: Tel 01460 75686 www.classiccanes.co.uk

Games & Puzzles

It’s A Puzzling Time 2020 has been the year where we’ve all spent more time at home and we’ve had to look at ways to pass time beyond our screens, baking and DIY, puzzles and games have filled that void as something to do alone or with the family.

hen the first lockdown started in the UK back in March many people were at a loss with what to do with so much unexpected free time. Used to the daily grind of commuting to work, juggling school runs and regular household activities, many people hadn’t experienced an extended period of ‘downtime’ as lockdown extended much longer than most people’s annual holidays. With nowhere to go and few things allowed outside of the home, people looked inside at ways to fill the hours. Thankfully the weather was kind and activities such as gardening and DIY proved popular. Baking had a resurgence, with flour, sugars and eggs hard to come by in many supermarkets. But there is only so much banana bread anyone can make – and consume, so other alternatives were required, and that is where faithful board games and puzzles came to the fore. Phil Pond from trend forecasters Scarlet Opus said in a recent trend webinar that there has been “a surge in consumerism to do with the home since we’ve spent more time at home this year.” Things for the home, things to make the home and working-from-home more comfortable and things to do at home all fit in this category. Sales of traditional board games such as Monopoly, Scrabble and Cluedo soared during the first lockdown, while jigsaw puzzles were flying off shelves in numbers usually only seen during Christmas. The NPD Group reported strong sales in the toy sector in the first half of the year and said consumers continued to turn to Games and Puzzles more than any other supercategory, making it the best performing supercategory in the G12 for the first half (37%). Now as the weather gets cooler, daylight is shorter and we’ve faced further restrictions and lockdowns, games and puzzles are once again on people’s shopping lists. Emma Ball was one such person who tapped into people’s desire to amuse themselves over recent months as she provided regular jigsaw puzzles online to her followers on social media. The puzzles were all taken from her artwork and she has developed an ardent fanbase. “The puzzles have been really popular and it’s been great to build our brand and presence on social media,” said Lucy Howard, Sales Manager at Emma Ball Ltd. There is a small collection of puzzles among the Emma Ball catalogue of gifts, cards and homewares but with no UK manufacturer, plans for any expansion to the range aren’t on the cards for 2021 just yet. Sustainability is another trend that has been boosted by this year’s events, with Phil Pond believing it has been pushed forward by five to six years. So, carrying games or puzzles that fit in with this ethos, will tick multiple boxes for consumers.

66 Gifts Today

Global Journey’s personalized Christmas jigsaw puzzles were proving popular gift items prior to lockdown 2 and it is hoped this trend will continue as retail reopens in the coming weeks. Featuring 96 titles and names in the range, they are environmentally-friendly, made from recycled materials and fully recyclable.

Spreading Positivity Gibsons

Gibsons, the 101-year-old jigsaw puzzle and board game company, strive to entertain all generations and have an array of exciting products to keep everyone entertained this winter. From themed playing cards, to quirky puzzle designs and licenced games, there is something for all ages. Gibsons are spreading positive vibes during these difficult times with their Puzzle of Positivity and Pack of Positivity playing cards. Packed full of pick-me-ups, along with a dash of sarcasm and a healthy portion of puns, these colourful designs have been illustrated by Katie Abey and provide a bucket loads of happiness and motivation! Gibsons have collaborated with the team behind the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Good Night Stories for Rebel Girlsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; novels to produce a product range that celebrates queens, activists, scientists, artists and sporting champions throughout history. The latest addition to the range is Card Game for Rebel Girls. This empowering card game is perfect for children aged 6 and up has been given the seal of approval by the Good Play Guide, which is dedicated to helping children develop skills through play. While learning about incredible women throughout history, the Card Game for Rebel Girls also encourages players to be bold, work hard and remember to be proud of everything they have achieved.

Call: 020 8661 8866 Email: sales@gibsonsgames.co.uk Visit: www.gibsonsgames.co.uk

POSITIVE VIBES FOR DIFFICULT TIMES

G6608 Puzzle of Positivity (1000pc)

G9601 Pack of Positivity @gibsons_puzzles @gibsons_puzzles facebook.com/gibsonsgames

PProudly Entertaining Generations Since 191919

sales@gibsonsgames.co.uk www.gibsonsgames.co.uk 020 8661 8866

Gifts Today 67

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