Gifts Today February 2025

Gifts Today Contents

February 2025

Gifts Today team

Advertisement Manager Marian McNamara Marian@lemapublishing.co.uk

Editor Clare Turner Clare@lemapublishing.co.uk

Layout/Design

Rick Vickers rick@lemapublishing.co.uk

Managing Director

Mark Naish mark@lemapublishing.co.uk

Production Director Paul Naish paul@lemapublishing.co.uk

Lema Publishing Ltd

1 Churchgates, The Wilderness, Berkhamsted, Herts, HP4 2UB

Telephone: 01442 289930 www.giftstoday.media

8 News

70 Trade Talk: A selection of Spring Fair exhibitors give us a sneak peak into what products they are most excited about launching at this key trade show, and discuss some of the challenges and opportunities facing suppliers right now

72 Shop Talk: Independent retailers reveal their hopes and plans for their visits to Spring Fair, from must-see stands to spotting new trends and themes

16 Sara Allbbright, director and co-founder of Retail100 Consulting

18 Jo Williams, owner/director of Joco gift shop in Nuneaton, Warwickshire

75 Andrew Goodacre, CEO of BIRA (British Independent Retailers Association)

Cover Story

22 Candlelight founder Mike Winch shares the story behind his gift and home company, and reveals details of an exciting new collection for 2025 Fair Focus

10 The Gift Fair by Xpofairs Preview 24 Spring Fair Preview Retailer Focus

20 Lynn Dickinson, head of retail for sixstrong chain Collectables and the twostrong sister chain Cello by Collectables in the North East

68 David Robertson, managing director of gift and card stores Pozzi and Bijou, based in the towns of Buckie and Elgin on the Moray coast of Scotland

G IFTS L IMITED EDITIONS B EAUTIFUL HOMES

creative solutions for tabletop, gifts and accessories.

Goebel, De Rosa and Pampa Bay ar just a few of the many Brands of Distinction from Global Luxury Brands.

All with a proven track record, unique yet commer oducts and highly selective distribution. The best sellers in these exciting ranges are now stocked in the UK for excellent service and trouble-free delivery

Contact us for further details on all our prestige brands.

Email: info@glb.uk.com Telephone: 01538 807 780 www.globalluxurybrands.co.uk

TMessage from the Editor

LinkedIn: @giftstoday

Twitter: @giftstodaymag

Instagram: @giftstodaymedia

he new show season is well underway and, as I write this, the industry is busy preparing for one of the key events in the exhibition calendar: Spring Fair. Billed as the UK’s largest trade show for gift, home, and fashion, it returns to NEC Birmingham from February 2 to February 5.

Organiser Hyve says this year promises to be one to remember with more than 1,200 exhibitors across 12 buying destinations. Buyers will find more than one million products, over 400 new brands - many exclusive only to Spring Fair - and more than 100 international brands.

The 2025 edition is also very special as it marks Spring Fair’s 75th anniversary. In honour of this major milestone, the show is hosting several fun initiatives including happy hours, a birthday party, awards ceremonies, and a networking festival.

For this issue’s Shop Talk section, we’ve spoken to several independent retailers who plan to attend and it’s clear that they are really looking forward to their visit. They are ready and willing to source lots of newnessand are hoping to find a few surprises along the way too!

They tell us what (and who) is on their hit list of priorities - and disclose some hidden gems they’ve discovered in the past. Many are also eager to see what new trends and themes are coming through for 2025.

And, as Anton Pearson, manager of Pennells Garden Centre in Lincoln, points out: “As we move towards spring, Easter, Valentine’s Day and Mothering Sunday play huge roles, so the selection in the Gift destination will be of great intrigue to us.”

Anton - and fellow Shop Talk interviewee Sally Wilde, owner of Planet Sal in Honiton - are members of the judging panel for The Giftware Association’s Gift of the Year 2025 Awards. Both are keen to see all the shortlisted entries that have advanced to the live judging round, which will take place during Spring Fair.

This event also not only gives the panel the opportunity to see, touch, and experience the products in person, but provides a platform for the shortlisted items to gain visibility among the thousands of buyers at the show.

Retailers looking for some inspiration on what to stock in the coming months could do worse than take a peek, because according to The Giftware Association’s PR & marketing manager Chris Workman, “the competition has always been about celebrating the creativity and passion within our industry… and this year’s entries are of an exceptionally high standard. We’re excited to see the shortlisted products shine in the live judging round”.

Our Cover Star Candlelight will be exhibiting at Spring Fair and is set to unveil an exciting new release there: The Silk Road Collection. In fact, a product from this very range - the Silk Road Bukhara LED Candle - has been shortlisted for the home fragrance category of the Gift of the Year Awards! Find out more about this gift and home company’s heritage, mission, and product portfolio on pages 22 and 23.

Of course, the show will be home to a multitude of innovative gift options, all under one roof, so you really will be spoilt for choice. With so much to see, we’ve compiled a comprehensive Spring Fair Preview for your reference. Turn to page 24 for a great round-up of the hottest new products.

Finally, check out the tried-and-tested tips shared by our columnist Sara Allbright, director and co-founder of Retail100 Consulting. A seasoned trade show attendee, she has lots of suggestions to help you maximise your visit.

Of course, the Gifts Today team will be at Spring Fair in force, and we hope to see you there. Do stop and stay hello if you spot us wandering the aisles!

Clare Turner, Editor clare@lemapublishing.co.uk

DCUK collabs with Aardman

DCUK has announced an exciting collaboration with the award-winning creators at Aardman. Together, they have created the first two characters in a brand-new collection of original wooden ducks inspired by the much-loved personalities from the world of Wallace & Gromit.

O cially launching at Spring Fair and online at dcuk.com this month, the partnership brings together DCUK’s signature handcrafted characters and commitment to spreading smiles, with Aardman’s iconic, heartwarming storytelling – creating a celebration of the playful spirit of two much-loved brands.

The DCUK Aardman Collection launches with Wallace, the cheery inventor and lover of all things cheese and crackers, and Feathers, Wallace’s nemesis. If you’re wondering about the whereabouts of Gromit, Shaun and other franchise favourites, don’t worry. The team is working hard to bring more character designs to life a little later in 2025 and beyond.

Gift of the Year shortlist unwrapped

The Giftware Association (GA) has revealed the shortlist for the Gift of the Year 2025 Awards. After receiving just over 900 individual entries, a panel of more than 120 judges has reviewed the first round of submissions, to select the very best products in each category.

The shortlisted entries now advance to the hotly anticipated live judging round, which takes place during Spring Fair, giving the panel the opportunity to see, touch, and experience the products in person. The event also provides a platform for shortlisted products to gain visibility among thousands of buyers, retailers, and industry professionals attending the show, alongside the Gift of the Year Pavilion.

The winners will be revealed at the Gift Awards 2025: a prestigious black-tie ceremony held at the Royal Lancaster Hotel in London in May.

GA PR & marketing manager Chris Workman said: “The Gift of the Year competition has always been about celebrating the creativity and passion within our industry. This year’s entries were of an exceptionally high standard, and we’re excited to see the shortlisted products shine in the live judging round. We wish all entrants the best of luck and look forward to honouring their e orts at the Gift Awards in May.”

For the full shortlist and updates on the competition, visit https://www.giftoftheyear.co.uk/

Applications for The Small Awards 2025 are open!

Could you or someone you know be crowned a winner in The Small Awards 2025? Applications close at midnight on February 28, so get planning and don’t miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to shine the spotlight on your small business. The contest is organised by Small Business Britain, and entering is completely free.

Judging is based on a number of criteria relevant to the specific award, while also looking for strong performance as an ongoing business. The judges will be looking for evidence of strong community engagement from small businesses. The categories are:

• High Street Hero - best high street business

• Bricks and Clicks Award - best multi-channel small business

• Legacy Award - best family business

• Supply Chain Champion - best B2B business

• New Kid On The Block - best business start-up (less than 18 months)

• Digital Star - best digital only business

• Heart Of Gold - the business that contributes most to their community

• At Your Service - best small service business

• Sole to Sole - sole trader award

• Mission Possible - social enterprise business, CIC, not for profits or charity

• Net Hero - the business that demonstrates exceptional commitment to environmental sustainability

One category-winning small business will also be crowned the winner of the ‘Small Business Of The Year’ award.

The awards ceremony takes place on May 22 with small businesses, experts and luminaries from all industries across the UK celebrating all things small business.To find out more about the categories and how to apply, visit https://thesmallawards.uk/

Shortlisted:

Shortlisted: F.Y.G - Back to Basics Candle Collection

Shortlisted: Clockwork Soldier - The Mindful

Shortlisted: Rosie Made A Thing - Sticky Jots

Shortlisted: Wick Guru -Tealight Set

Bothy Threads - Wrendale Design Cross Stitch Kits

Gardener Range

More stores for British Garden Centres

British Garden Centres (BGC) has acquired two Dobbies Garden Centres in Gloucester and Reading. The retailer says this move makes it the UK’s largest garden centre operator by number of sites, taking its portfolio to 67 stores.

The two stores will join the BGC family following Dobbies’ Restructuring Plan and hope to open in mid to late February. The Reading store will take the name Shinfield Garden Centre to better reflect the area and local community.

The immediate priority is to work closely with the existing teams to restock and reopen the centres as soon as possible. BGC will be retaining all existing centre team members and looks forward to working with them to ensure the continued success of these sites in the local communities they serve.

Further acquisitions of Dobbies sites by BGC are likely to follow.

New MD for Talking Tables

Talking Tables has appointed Daniel Fagan as managing director in what is a new role for the company. Previously director of supply chain, Daniel has been with the giftware supplier for 12 years, originally joining as supply chain assistant and working his way up while gaining a thorough insight into the business. He became a director five years ago and in 2022 he steered the company to B Corp status.

Among Daniel’s most significant achievements at Talking Tables has been building and maintaining a strong and agile supply base, which has seen the company through Covid and freight shipping challenges and enabled it to successfully expand into new categories, such as this season’s move into reusable tableware with the launch of the Bon Appetit collection.

At the same time, co-founder Mark McCormack joins Clare Harris as co-CEO. Both say they are excited and proud to see Daniel step up to be managing director, and feel very confident of his talent. They intend to remain present (but hopefully with a little more time to travel), and support Daniel on the wider growth strategy of Talking Tables.

Leadership change at The Giftware Association

The Giftware Association (GA) has announced that Sarah Ward has stepped down as CEO, creating a pivotal opportunity to move the association forward.

Tom Jones, CEO of the British Allied Trades Federation (BATF), will step in as interim CEO, ensuring continuity and supporting the GA’s mission to serve its members during this critical time.

GA chair Mark Jones said: “We are incredibly grateful to Sarah for her leadership and the significant contributions she has made to the GA. As we move forward, we are excited to have Tom step in as interim CEO. His extensive experience and leadership within trade associations will ensure a smooth transition and continued focus on our strategic goals. We remain committed to our mission of supporting the giftware sector, driving growth, and enhancing inclusivity as we evolve with the changing industry landscape.”

The GA is part of the British Allied Trades Federation (BATF), and represents the UK giftware sector, o ering services to manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers, and importers.

Fresh faces at Sting in the Tail

Sting in the Tail has made two further appointments to its Lake District-based team, as part of major expansion plans for 2025.

Stephen Woodman joins as business development manager, focusing primarily on delivering an outstanding client service, as well as the business’ longer-term strategy and structure.

He will draw on his 15 years of experience in the gift industry - both domestic and international - with companies including University Games, Recent Toys and Coiledspring Games.

Rogier Lap has been appointed as head of product development, charged with expanding existing successful product ranges and creating complementary new collections. In his first seven years in the industry, Rogier has already built a track record of creating and launching several men’s gift ranges.

Sting in the Tail will launch its 2025 catalogue at Spring Fair (Hall 4 Stand H45), showcasing its bestselling and new gift ranges. You can find more information via the website, www.sitt.uk, which will be redesigned and updated this Spring.

Tom Jones

to a great start!

The Gift Fair, a new and innovative online trade show launched on January 8, has already had an impressive start!

Organised by Xpofairs, the event drew significant interest during its first week, with over 1,600 visitors registering interest and more than 300 buyers from 42 di erent countries actively attending the show.

Key Highlights:

Flexibility: The show runs until February 28, allowing visitors to browse at their own pace. Attendees can explore di erent stands over multiple visits and return to their favorites.

Diverse Buyers: Participants include retail chains, department stores, garden centres, independent gift shops, and licensing companies, showcasing the broad appeal of the event.

Engagement: Buyers are primarily connecting with exhibitors via email and by following links provided through the platform.

Communication: Buyers are in control of how to reach out to exhibitors – either by instant

messaging, scheduling a meeting, downloading a brochure, sending an email or going to their website.

Ar t In Glass

Kindred Cottages

Top Dog Cushions

New products

Feel-good ceramics

Denby

New for S/S25, Kiln Coral embraces soft and calming hues combined with handcrafted beauty, to create a collection with a timeless quality that’s a joy to have in your home. Its gentle palette of chalk white and earthy, on-trend plaster pinks with amber under tones blend perfectly, creating a sense of warmth and calm.

All sustainably made and handcrafted in Derbyshire, Kiln Coral comprises multifunctional pieces that are beautiful enough for mid-week and special occasion dining and serving, as well as for gifting and displaying in any room in the home.

The range includes place setting items with multi-bowl options, two sizes of ridged mug, three sizes of organic serving bowls, and a platter. Place settings come both as individual pieces or, for gifting, there are boxed sets of four.

Call: 01773 740899

Email: TradeB2BAdmin@denby.co.uk

Visit: www.denbypottery.com/trade

Animal antics

Joe Davies

Tap into your wild side with the new Equilibrium Wild At Heart Collection of wild animalinspired jewellery. Elephants, tigers, gira es, penguins and snow leopards are just some of the creatures featured in this captivating range of bracelets, necklaces and earrings. The collection is plated with real silver, and comes with a luxury branded gift box. And why not display your favourite plants in handmade coir animal planters? Coco coir is upcycled from coconut fibre and is growing in popularity due to the rising awareness of environmental sustainability. There is nothing like the appeal of animal planters to bring the outdoors into your home and inject a fresh vibe into a room. From adorable bees to cute robins and hedgehogs, these eco-friendly planters make for lovely home décor.

Call: 0161 975 6300

Email: sales@joedavies.co.uk | Visit: www.joedavies.co.uk

Make a note

Huunuu

The award-winning creator of meaningful stationery, huunuu, has launched a new journal. Be Present is designed to support self awareness and foster gratitude. The brand says: “It helps you to clear your mind and focus on the important things. Daily practice, reflection and questions will help you to be productive and Be Present! This is the perfect gift for someone who would like to organise and gain valuable insights into who they are, and what is important to them.”

Email: hello@huunuu.com

Visit: https://huunuu.com/

Design debuts Dunoon

Dunoon has launched new mug designs for 2025, which are all made from fine bone china in Sta ordshire.

Woodland Tales is a set of three mugs on Dunoon’s Lomond shape. Illustrated and painted by Sue Scullard, each mug tells a story of woodland friends sharing a picnic, having fun on a boat trip, and gathering together along the riverbank - all captured in fine detail.   Kashmir is a stylish paisley design on Dunoon’s elegant Skye shape. Designed by David Broadhurst, the mug features opulent turquoise and blue with rich red and 22 carat gold accents. This striking design is sure to bring a touch of style to your home.

Floral Fiesta is a set of three floral designs on Dunoon’s popular Cairngorm shape. Featuring sweet peas, freesias and poppies in bright colours, each mug has been designed by Caroline Bessey and would make a perfect gift.

Call: 01785 817414

Email: sales@dunoonmugs.co.uk

Visit: www.dunoonmugs.co.uk

Vibrant vibes

Lisa Angel

Add a splash of colour to the S/S season with Lisa Angel’s new homeware and accessories collection. Combining abstract patterns with a playful palette, the new range sees a blend of fruits, florals, seashells, and statement features, designed with warm, fun colours that are guaranteed to provide a dopamine hit.

From citrus-patterned ceramics to lightweight scarves with a floral flourish, each piece brings a vibrant energy to your home or handbag. Whether you’re hunting for home accessories to liven up your living space for the sunnier seasons, or searching for a special something for the ultimate gift experience, Lisa Angel has the perfect piece to suit any style.

Call: 01603 859111

Email: cs@lisaangel.co.uk | Visit: www.lisaangel.co.uk

2025 Catalogue now available New Cumbrae shape

Telephone; (01785) 817414 Email; sales@dunoonmugs.co.uk www.dunoonmugs.co.uk

FINE BONE CHINA MADE IN ENGLAN D

Nothing but the best…

Finding something that is di erent and exciting has always been a key aim of the team at Global Luxury Brands, as managing director Simon Willis

Over the past 11 years, Global Luxury Brands (GLB) has been lucky enough to work with some of the best brands in our sector. Finding something that is different and exciting has always been a key aim of the team at GLB. That is not an easy task but, with so much industry experience in the business, we have the contacts to find the brands that we are now lucky enough to distribute in the UK from stock held in our Staffordshire warehouse.

De Rosa

It all started in 2013 with De Rosa: a brand that uses unique modelling and decorating skills to produce a ceramic figure that has a level of detail like no other. Casting cannot achieve the hand-applied textures that the artists at De Rosa put into each of their pieces, from small to huge sculptural centrepieces. All are hand-painted and fired to create true a ordable works of art, from a family business in Uruguay. The great assortment of subjects is added to regularly, so the range is always fresh and exciting.

Goebel

Goebel is a brand that is familiar to many, and it was certainly one that the GLB team were delighted to be able to add to our range. The o ering is vast and the imagination of the design team in Germany is incredible. Whether it’s figurative pieces, vases, or giftware, the attention to design is second to none. The range is refreshed each year with new introductions in all categories.

Our warehouse serves a select number of accounts in the UK and Ireland with this exciting range. If you’re looking for a range that o ers something di erent, please get in touch with us.

Pampa Bay

In 2024 the GLB team met the owners of Pampa Bay and were blown away at the quality and variety of this range of ceramic giftware and serveware. With more than 30 years of experience in the ceramic industry, the team immediately recognised the considerable challenges that the factories had to overcome to produce the intricate shapes.

With the shapes decorated with both gold and platinum they make a big statement, and have already become hugely successful with the selected distribution we have worked with so far.

More new lines have been added to the UK stocked range for 2025 and will be delivered from our warehouse. This range has great potential, and GLB is looking for a small number of new accounts for 2025.

If you would like more details on any of the brands above, please email Alison at alison@glb.uk.com or Simon at srw@glb.uk.com.

Making the most of a trade show

Sara

Allbright , director and co-founder of Retail100 Consulting , shares

some tried-and-tested tips to help maximise your visits to exhibitions

As a visitor - especially a firsttimer - to an exhibition on the scale of Spring Fair, you can quickly become overwhelmed unless you give your trip some thought in advance. This might not feel like something you have time to do, especially coming out of the busyness of Christmas and straight into a new trade show season. But a bit of forward planning will help you be far more efficient when walking the halls.

First, give yourself some time to review your sales history, especially if you have good data. Pull out what’s been working for you, and where you see emerging or building trends. Is there an opportunity to buy more range in this area, or do you need to add to your supply base to support a growing demand? Asking yourself questions like these will help you create a wish list, or indeed a ‘shopping’ list, of the types of things to look out for.

Show organisers supply a lot of information about their exhibitors prior to the events, so you can start to research and see if what’s on your list is going to be covered - and make a note of relevant stand numbers.

You can then use this research to identify halls that have interesting brands and suppliers for you. They should be your first port of call when you arrive. I wouldn’t advocate racing

to specific stands, as organisers tend to group similar vendors and product categories together. Instead, walking up and down each aisle to thoroughly access all that’s available is a must. You can then simply stop off at the stands that interest you most, or at those that you’ve already noted down.

Once on a stand, don’t be afraid to ask probing questions like ‘which retailers do you already work with?’ and ‘what’s your UK turnover?’. In return, be open and honest about your business and requirements. This will ensure you leave the show having identified brands that you want to work with, and that are willing to work with you. This is key,

because you could easily fall in love with a brand, only to follow up and discover that it doesn’t want any more stockists in your area.

Prompt follow-up is crucial. If the brand hasn’t got in touch with you in the few days post-show, make contact to confirm your conversation and the next steps from your point of view. Good brands and suppliers should beat you to this - so this is always an early sign of how easy or efficient they might be to work with.

Plus, while you may feel your focus and priorities should be on product at a show, there is also a lot of content that the organisers and affiliate associations offer [such as seminars and Q&A sessions].

Sara Allbright is a director and co-founder of Retail100 Consulting, which is a consultancy firm with 100 years of retail experience that helps retailers and brands grow.

Prior to joining Retail100 Consulting, Sara worked in buying roles at John Lewis & Partners for 18 years, predominantly for home and seasonal categories, including eight years leading gift and home fragrance buying.

She specialised in brand relationships and growing small emerging brands into market leaders. Sara is also experienced in own-label sourcing across multiple categories and countries.

Email: hello@retail100consulting.co.uk

Visit: www.retail100consulting.co.uk www.linkedin.com/company/retail100-consulting

Checking the content schedule before you attend means you can factor this into your visit. And don’t underestimate the value that listening to a great speaker can have in terms of helping you with your business or offering motivation. Hopefully, the buzz of the show and seeing lots of great products will keep your energy up, but don’t forget to keep hydrated and refuelled. Catering options at shows can be limited and pricey so, for the super-organised, a packed lunch is a must because you will start to flag when you are pounding the aisles later in the day - and quickly regret your crispsand-chocolate-bar lunch!

L-R: Sara Allbright, Anna Berry, Neil Amer and Elaine Hooper

Timeless style

Sophie Bylina-Williams, administration & relationships manager of Museums & Galleries (M&G), introduces some of the latest lines from the producer of quality art cards, gift stationery and design-led home and giftware

Festive feels

New for 2025, countdown to Christmas with beautiful fine art Advent Calendars from Museums & Galleries (M&G). Card windows reveal small illustrated details to suit the festive season, and impactful cover scenes. There are eight designs to choose from in the launch range, with a suggested retail price of £5.15. The calendar size is 250 x 345mm.

There are four stunning designs from M&G’s Imaginarium artist Emma Frances Grant, and a very festive option from massive fan favourite Brambly Hedge. Bestselling Christmas card designs by Lucy Grossmith and Caroline Bonne Muller have been promoted to Advents, and the final design, Christmas Express, will be a must for vintage steam train aficionados. The designs are available for pre-order now.

Our Christmas o er has long had an astonishingly diverse range of styles and talent, so it seemed a perfect fit to o er retailers Advent Calendars featuring some of our most popular artists, especially given that we are frequently asked for them.

Art-based bags

M&G has also introduced a new format to its comprehensive collection of gift wrapping products: Plant Gift Bags. This new set features four striking floral bestsellers from the wrap collection, in a wide tapered bag format (327 x 267 x 147mm) with reinforced base and extended ribbon handles (SRP £3.25).

Designs include Vincent Van Gogh’s ‘Sunflowers’, and Josephine Simon’s ‘Wild Garden’ - both customer favourites - as well as designs from Matthew Williamson and the V&A.

Trends in gift-giving and consumer needs continue to evolve. We perceived an opportunity to create a beautiful and stylish collection of art-based gift bags to give people an option for heavier or bulkier gifts. These join our very successful existing range of gift packaging options.

Top of the table

Finally, with award-nominated ranges of kitchen textiles launched last year, and following successful launches of organic cotton napkins, paper napkin packs, and insulated bottles and mugs, M&G has introduced new Place Mat Sets and Coaster Sets for 2025.

Both are cork-backed, laminated, heat-resistant to 100º, and can be cleaned with a damp cloth. The collection of place mats comprises six sets of four place mats (single design per pack, 290 x 218 x 24mm, SRP £17.99). The choice includes designs from M&G’s new licences Angela Harding and Mary Katrantzou, joining long-time favourites from the V&A and Helen Ahpornsiri for Wild Press.

There are 12 sets of coasters, each containing four coasters of the same design and with a recommended £6.99 price point (103 x 103 x 24mm). The V&A, Mary Katrantzou, Angela Harding and Wild Press feature here, along with quirky and colourful designs from the British Museum, Catherine Rowe, and Brambly Hedge.

The new sets extend M&G’s penetration into the world of tabletop products and increase the variety of product types we are able to o er customers, based on our bestselling fine art and designer brands.

Diary of a gift shop

Jo Williams, owner/director of award-winning gift shop Joco in Nuneaton,

muses on a bizarre festive season and looks forward to visiting Spring Fair

As we move into 2025, I’m briefly reflecting on Christmas as one of the most bizarre experiences of the festive season I’ve experienced in my 10 years of trading. Sadly, Nuneaton didn’t feel very festive until the week before the big day.

Due to a drop in overall footfall throughout the year (caused by local and national issues), even my buying for the season was very different. I ordered far less than previous years, but ordered strategically, as we have lots of ‘stack it high and sell it cheap’ stores in the town which we can’t compete with on price.

So I chose more thoughtful and quality pieces. Many shops in my town have experienced lower spending. However, we found that having higher-priced quality items actually attracted customers to the store.

Now I’m buying for the next festive season, and it will be interesting to see where shopping trends go this year. I’m ready to head to Spring Fair for its 75th anniversary, which is something I’ve been looking forward to for some time. I think the launch of its first-ever signature fragrance Heritage 75 [see box] will bring a lovely subtle touch to the celebrations.

I always enjoy attending the show and, as it’s local to me, I can visit every day to find something new. Over the years, I’ve found some amazing suppliers including Widdop & Co., Joe Davies, Nemesis Now, Alchemy and many more.

We have a diverse range in the shop and it’s hard to keep up with the changes in stock from our suppliers. However, due to the size of the show, many exhibitors bring as much of their product range as possible, which is helpful to see.

Once again I’m a judge for the Gift of the Year Awards, and the final round of judging takes place at the show. Assessing the products up close - picking them up, using them, and examining their packaging - takes several hours. Often I do a couple of the categories at a time, take a break, and then head back feeling refreshed.

Personally, I’m not a fan of ordering stock online. I prefer to see items ‘in the flesh’ to decide if they will go with my plans for shop displays in the coming months. Obviously this isn’t always an option, but all my suppliers’ reps are fantastic - and they will be honest if they don’t think an item will be a good fit for my business.

It’s important to build a good rapport with reps and agents, as they will then protect your area for specific ranges - because it’s pointless stocking the same as another shop in your area. Given the sheer number of suppliers and ranges available,

I find that it’s all about finding something different to give customers a reason to visit.

One sector I always struggle with ordering if I’m not ‘in person’ is fragrance products. The shows give us the opportunity to try out all the scents, as it’s extremely difficult to buy simply by description alone, although eye-catching packaging is always a way to draw me in.

With Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day and Easter now fast approaching, it’s time to put light and airy florals to the test with our customers. Also, introducing bright spring colours will help lift everyone from the winter cosiness.

As retailers enter 2025, we need to feel the passion to survive and instill that confidence in our customers, in order to face any hurdles that come our way and to navigate the additional costs we are all facing from April.

Spring Fair’s signature scent

Spring Fair has launched its first-ever exclusive signature fragrance, Heritage 75, created to commemorate the show’s 75th anniversary. Crafted in collaboration with fragrance expert Quintessence Fragrances and home fragrance expert Sebnini, the scent will debut at the 2025 edition of Spring Fairbringing a multisensory dimension to the exhibition.

Heritage 75 aims to capture the spirit of Spring Fair, blending tradition and modernity, and reflecting the excitement of the anniversary while symbolising 75 years of heritage. It’s described as a combination of invigorating top notes (apple, lemon, and bergamot), elegant heart notes (jasmine, tuberose, ancient cedarwood, and cistus), and warm, grounding base notes (amber, and earthy, moss-infused patchouli).

The fragrance will elevate key areas of the show such as the Buyers’ Lounge through scent activations, and limited-edition Heritage 75 votive candles and diffusers will be distributed to key buyers and showcased across the event.

Special brew

A.C.T. Products (UK)

The Cookie Catcher is a simple mesh device that is inserted into a mug of hot tea, which allows you to dunk biscuits without fear of ruining your beverage.

Biscuit dunking is a British institution and the Cookie Catcher is guaranteed to raise a smile. This impulse purchase is a real “I saw this and thought of you” idea. We all love a crafty dunk, and using a Cookie Catcher is designed to end all your dunking dilemmas.

Sold via a clip strip and easily fitting into any greeting card, it could also add value to any mug, coaster or tea towel purchase.

Call: 07899871135

Email: thecookiecatcher@gmail.com

Visit: www.thecookiecatcher.com

We’re

all ears

Joe Davies

If you’re looking for that extra special gift for someone special, then jewellery is probably at the top of your list. But what if you want something that is completely di erent? Look no further than the brand-new Equilibrium Captured with Love Collection from Joe Davies.  These pretty stud style earrings are plated with real silver, mounted on a captioned backing card complete with a little message for the recipient, and then ‘captured’ in an attractive glass dome and sealed with a cork! Captions include ‘Mum’, ‘Friends’, ‘A little hug just for you, to make you smile when you feel blue…’, ‘Robins appear when loved ones are near…’ and many more. They are supplied with an attractive acrylic counter display stand which is perfect for the till point as it’s compact and maximises that all important space while ensuring you don’t miss out on those vital impulse sales.

Call: 0161 975 6300

Email: sales@joedavies.co.uk

Visit: www.joedavies.co.uk

Eye-catchers

Opticaid

Meet the Snozzle spec holder: a longstanding bestseller from Opticaid that is a thoughtful and practical gift for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, birthdays, or a fun stocking filler.

Available in a variety of vibrant colours, the Snozzle can be chosen to match your glasses with your home interior or o ce decor. But it’s more than just a cute accessory; it keeps your specs safe when you’re not wearing them, ensuring they stay scratch-free and are always easy to find.

Whether placed on your desk, bedside table, or in the living room, the Snozzle combines function with flair. A simple yet clever solution to keeping your glasses secure and within reach - it’s a gift you never knew you needed!

Call: 0113 239 1400

Email: sales@opticaid.net

Visit: www.opticaid.net

Quirky pick-ups

Rex London

Rex London o ers a range of quirky pick-ups, many of which come in a stylishly designed cardboard display unit, ideal for popping on the till for a last-minute purchase. There’s something for all ages, from novelty stationery and temporary tattoos for little ones, to worry dolls and lightbulb keyrings for the grown-ups.

Adding some unusual little hidden gems to your store is a sure-fire way of catching your customers’ eyes, creating some irresistible intrigue, and leaving them pleasantly surprised by the value too - many of these items retail for less than £3, making them ideal impulse buys.

Call: 020 8746 1700

Email: info@rexlondon.com

Visit: rexlondontrade.com

A Northern light

Clare Turner chats to Lynn Dickinson, head of retail for Collectables and Cello by Collectables, which specialise in home fragrance, comfort and wellbeing, gifts and home accessories

Tell us about your businesses.  Collectables is a family-run business based in the North East that opened in 1986 as a glass & china store. Since then, the business has had many stores across the country (even three with restaurants inside), and has evolved into a specialist gift chain over time.

There are now a total of six stores: in the Metrocentre, at Gateshead near Newcastle - right in the heart of our home turf; Manor Walks Shopping Centre in Cramlington, Northumberland; Hill Street Shopping Centre in Middlesbrough, Cleveland; Cornmill Shopping Centre in Darlington, Durham; Junction 32 Shopping Outlet in Castleford, West Yorkshire; and White Rose Shopping Centre in Leeds, West Yorkshire.

Cello by Collectables is a two-strong sister chain created from the vision of Collectables, to capture a new, truly unique brand. Unlike most stores focusing on either stunning gifts or fragrance products, Cello bridges the gap by o ering both as the ideal retail solution.

Our mission is simple: to deliver gifts that not only look incredible but also bring an enchanting fragrance to every home. Our classic colourful Cello logo is based around the visual representation of what fragrance would look like if you could see it.

With over 35 years of expertise in both fragrance and gifting, Cello takes pride in curating products that elevate the art of giving. Our journey began by opening our first store at the Metrocentre.

“We are always open to discovering new brands for our stores”

This shop features a distinctive design that reflects our brand’s creative spirit - metal piping and a breathtaking copper bathtub suspended from the ceiling - capturing the magic of blending fragrances to create your personalised mixology masterpiece.

Building on the success of our Metrocentre store, we proudly opened our second location on Church Street in York city centre. As our brand continues to grow in popularity, boosted by a strong following from our QVC community, we’re eagerly exploring new opportunities to expand and bring the Cello experience to even more people.

What products do you offer?

We cover a range of gifting, with the primary focus being on our Cello brand, from a stunning range of Porcelain Tealight Domes to our famous Ultrasonic Di users. Second to this, we’ve expanded our travel section to include travel globes, as the Splosh travel pinboard maps flew out of stores.

We also have a selective range of jewellery including pieces from Joma Jewellery, Indulgence Jewellery, and the Equilibrium range from Joe Davies. We o er handbags too, from Alice Wheeler London and Katie Loxton

Alongside this is a range of gifting and fragrance from Cello, Splosh, Joe Davies, Royal County Products, and IEP Sense Aroma. And for our loyal collectors, we carry Charlie Bears and Stei bears.

In addition, this year we released our Naked Cello range. Naked Cello is a collection designed to capture nature’s natural elements. Currently the range includes 17 sentimental elephant tealight burners and 12 soy wax melts that blend together perfectly.

The melts can be hand-picked or chosen as

pre-selected packs, and are designed to look like expensively laid-out chocolate boxes, with a menu included. Matching seamlessly to the burners, they make the perfect gift.

Our next upcoming event is Mother’s Day, which we typically do very well with. We will be finishing off our buying for this major gifting occasion this month at the Spring Fair at NEC Birmingham. We expect that the most popular gifts will be anything with the word ‘Mum’ on, sentimental gifting, and home fragrance such as reeds and candles.

Where do you source gifts?

As a brand, we both exhibit and buy at the Spring Fair and Autumn Fair, and we attend the Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival in Harrogate to buy. Last month we also exhibited at Scotland’s Trade Fair Spring in Glasgow.

We work closely with reps from each brand and are always open to discovering new brands for our stores. We aim to select brands that align with our stores’ vision and mission and are always looking to capture upcoming market trends.

“Our mission is simple: to deliver gifts that not only look incredible but also bring an enchanting fragrance to every home”

How has trading been for you?

Last year had its difficult moments, particularly in April and May. However, with the launch of new products in our stores, and a massive uplift in the Cello brand from QVC, we’re back trading on good form again.

For example, we launched the new Naked Cello range, Edison burners and Gleneagle globes, and found having the globes alongside the travel maps has boosted sales significantly.

And over the past year, we’ve been working with QVC to set up and launch Cello products on TV, which has brought phenomenal benefits in terms of social media coverage for the brand and its ensuing popularity.

Through this, we have presented some of our strongest sellers, and even new exclusive designs which have sold through strongly. We have a lot planned into 2025 with QVC and are excited to see how this continues to progress and grow for Cello.

What else are you excited about for the new season?

For the spring season, the office has been heavily working on bringing out new ranges derived from our bestselling products - such as merging the convection candles and Naked Cello into a new range of Naked Cello convection spinners and ranges of new Electric Melt Burners. We will also be launching a new Splosh design in our stores.

One change we’ve been working hard on through this last year is better display fixtures for products in-store. We’ve spent a lot of time sourcing and finding the best models and we’re excited to see this continuing to roll out and the benefits that have come with it.

Finally, what’s your current favourite gift on your shelves?

That would have to be the Cello Plug In Burners. They’re a small gift with sentimental value at a good price point, and they’re easy to fit into any home. You can use them for fragrance or just as a lighting aspect.

Personally, I love them with wax in. So, for me, it would be our Naked Cello melts. A lot of time went into the making of them and they’re simply gorgeous. It’s a great product and I love using it!

Celebrating 53 years

Candlelight founder Mike Winch shares the story behind his gift and home company, and reveals details of an exciting new collection for 2025

Tell us a bit about Candlelight.

We’re 53 years old. We started the business with £20 investment, and it now turns over millions. The business is called Candlelight because we started o by making candles, but after that experience I never wanted to see another candle again. Why? Because it’s just a messy manufacturing business. It wasn’t until 20 years ago that we started designing own-label for major retailers.

But in the last five years we’ve worked very hard on developing the Candlelight brand, and we’ve got unbelievable growth happening in our business. It’s mainly led by the success that we’re having with the candles, along with other products too such as fragrance home decor, and furniture.

What other types of products do you o er?

Whatever our customers want, or wherever we see the market or trends turning to, we can turn our hands to. We can source almost anything within the home and living category.

And things change so quickly… So, for example, whether it’s home fragrance, napkin rings, wicker hampers, or bathmats, we can bring them in. Our factories work to whatever our customers require.

You’ve got to keep reinventing yourself in this game to stay ahead, and that’s what we do every six months. There’s always plenty of newness coming in. And we do unbelievably well with independent retailers, so we must have what they want!

How was 2024 for you?

We grew 36% in the calendar year 2024, and in our financial year we expect to grow 40%. Business is tough out there - and the government hasn’t made it easy - so this growth is unprecedented from our point of view. And in the next financial year we expect to grow by at least another 25%. It’s incredible, to be honest. So we must be doing a lot of things right for our customers.

What’s your company mission?

To be the number one candle brand in the UK. That’s our total focus. And then, next stop, the world! So, we will be moving into Europe and elsewhere.

What sets Candlelight apart from other gift suppliers?

Firstly, our growth. Secondly, our design expertise: what we present to our customer base is exactly on-trend. We’ve always employed designers to stay ahead of the competition. And thirdly, our business is self-financing. Plus, we’ve got a very good infrastructure and great design and product

of ever evolving gifts

development departments. We have tremendous loyalty, so we’ve got a huge amount of experience within our various teams.

It’s also important to say that Candlelight is now a majority family-run business. What happens in any business that’s been going 53 years is that it evolves. So it started off as a family business and is now fully back to being a successful family business, which is good.

I’ve got the best managing director that Candlelight has ever had in my son Ben, and my daughter Kate is sales director. And that’s a great experience for me; my kids are in the business, they’re part of the growth, and they’ve made that happen. So, they’re looking after their dad!

What’s the best way for retailers to see your collection?

All our products are listed on our website at www.candlelight.co.uk when they come into stock. But the best way to see our new ranges is to book an appointment with our very experienced sales team to visit our fantastic showroom at Rotherham in South Yorkshire.

This month we are exhibiting at Spring Fair in NEC Birmingham and the Indx Home Show at Cranmore Park in Solihull, and we will be exhibiting at Autumn Fair in NEC Birmingham in September.

In addition, we will host Open Weeks at our showroom in the week before and the week after the Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival, which takes place in the North Yorkshire spa town of Harrogate in July.

Spring Fair: Hall 4, Stand E18-F19

Call: 01709 723000

Email: contact@candlelight.co.uk Visit: www.candlelight.co.uk

Does

Candlelight have any upcoming releases?

Sales director Kate Winch says: “Our new range is The Silk Road Collection (pictured above right), which is inspired by the ancient network of trade routes and trading posts that connected the Western world with Asia and the Middle East.

It covers several cities which were along The Silk Road. For the first range we’ve chosen three cities in two countries and based each of the colourways and ranges within the total collection around them: Samarkand (Uzbekistan) is terracotta, Bukhara (Uzbekistan) is olive, and Jaisalmer (India) is blue. There are 11 lines in each colourway, including 1000ml reed diffusers, ceramic candles, glass candles, LED candles, mugs and home accessories.”

How did you feel when you heard that you are shortlisted in the home fragrance category of the Gift of the Year Awards 2025?

“We were not surprised because the product we put forward - the Silk Road Bukhara LED candle - is absolutely outstanding. It’s beautiful!”

Bringing the best

The 75th anniversary of Spring Fair promises to be an immersive experience

Billed as the UK’s leading retail trade event for 75 years, Spring Fair brings together gift, home, and fashion retailers and suppliers of all sizes to create new business opportunities. More than 1,200 exhibitors are already confirmed, with over 90% of the show sold.

You will discover 12 buying destinations, over 1 million products, 400-plus new brands, more than 100 international brands, New Business Pavilions, the #SBS Village, and four days of free insights, inspiration and catwalk shows across three content stages including the new Licensing Lab in partnership with Fabacus.

There are also activations galore including a time capsule experience taking you back to key events, people and products in the show’s history - and Spring Fair’s first-ever signature fragrance: Heritage 75.

Find Your Next Best Sellers

Gift is the buying destination that keeps on giving. It’s a treasure trove of unique, personalised and licensed gifts from leading brands including Candlelight, Enesco, Joe Davies, Lesser & Pavey, Rex International, Sifcon, Widdop & Co., Sass & Belle, Kikkerland, Powell Craft, Chalk UK, Gift Republic, Shoeless Joe, Forever England, Burstenhaus Redecker, History & Heraldry, Fountasia, Heaven Sends, Elgate, Gingko Design, Talking Tables, Legami, Boxer Gifts, and Half Moon Bay.

The Greetings, Party & Celebration destination o ers an exciting edit of cards, wrapping paper, balloons and partyware collections. Beauty & Wellbeing is brimming with products that lavish the senses and relax the mind from sought-after wellness brands that pamper, groom and spritz. And Kids, Toys & Play has an array of must-have toys, gadgets and games that bring big imaginations to life.

Elevate the art of living in the inspirational Home, Living & Décor destination, which features stylish textiles, interior accessories, décor and furniture collections. And don’t miss The Summer House Edit. Creating an immersive environment for discerning buyers and interior designers, this beautiful curated space features highend furnishings, décor, occasional furniture and gifts, with a host of new members including Portmeirion and Bedeck.

From wreaths and foliage to themed décor, the Christmas, Festive & Floral destination has a wide range of products to suit every occasion. Explore a festive wonderland, floral décor for every season, and so much more.

Housewares brings the best products to the table with kitchenware, dining utensils and must-have culinary collections, while Everyday showcases a wide variety of brands for buyers looking for high volume and high value products.

MODA x Pure

Pure is joining Moda at Spring Fair to create a combined, new fashion destination. Get the best of both shows under one roof with hundreds of trend-led UK-based and international fashion brands, as well as catwalk shows.

Discover ‘Clothing & Footwear’ from designer labels, boutique brands and high street fashion. ‘Jewellery & Watch’ shines with luxury, staple and statement jewellery and watches, and ‘Fashion Accessories’ highlights the latest bags, scarves, socks, luggage, and hair accessory collections.

Business Pavilions

The New Business Pavilions are exclusive stand areas dedicated to first-time suppliers and small businesses. These five dedicated pavilions, situated across the show, give buyers a chance to meet emerging and growing brands in the Gift; Greetings, Party & Celebration; Beauty & Wellbeing; Home, Living & Decor; and MODA x Pure destinations.

In collaboration with TV Dragon and retail entrepreneur Theo Paphitis, the #SBS Village creates a space for emerging businesses to exhibit. Twelve deserving winners of Theo’s #SBS [Small Business Sunday] initiative have been handpicked for their business models and product o erings, giving you the opportunity to find fresh products and partnerships.

Gift Of The Year Showcase

In partnership with The Giftware Association (GA), The Gift Of The Year Showcase puts the competition’s shortlisted products for 2025 front and centre,

of retail together

packed with events and features designed to inspire buyers and exhibitors alike

giving buyers a chance to browse innovations in multiple categories. And the new Gift Of The Year Pavilion is a launchpad for GA members who haven’t previously exhibited at the show, o ering another opportunity for giftware brands to present their wares.

Elevate Your Show Experience

Check out the exciting content areas, designed to inspire and engage you. Learning from industry experts is vital so don’t miss the keynotes, seminars, and trend forecasts on the Inspiring Retail Stage and in the Masterclass Studio and Licensing Lab. Engage your senses at the Buyers’ Lounge. All buyers have access to a basic buyer’s benefit package which can save them over £30 per day. The Lounge o ers a sanctuary to provide a moment of calm to reflect and plan orders away from the bustle of the show floor.

Curated around the five senses, the Lounge invites you to indulge your taste buds with complimentary tea and co ee, and delicious sampling sessions provided by exhibitors.

complimentary consultancy from Stephen Spencer + Associates

Buyers can also take advantage of daily buyers’ tours, a complimentary consultancy from Stephen Spencer + Associates about creating your own ambient retail experience, and a chat with expert perfumers from Quintessence Fragrance about developing captivating scents in home fragrance.

Celebrate!

Join in the festivities marking Spring Fair’s 75th anniversary. In honour of this milestone, the show is hosting several fun events including happy hours, a birthday party, awards ceremonies, and a networking festival. Don’t miss your chance to celebrate the past, present, and future of retail. Register now for an unforgettable experience at Spring Fair and discover what’s next in gift, home and fashion.

What: Spring Fair

Where: NEC Birmingham

When: February 2-5

Visit: www.springfair.com

Goodies galore

Equilibrium

The Equilibrium Collection will debut four collections for S/S25, including a Gemstone Collection featuring silverplated, semi-precious stone bracelets designed for stacking up your wrist to make a style statement.

The collection includes eight designs, such as Amethyst and Malachite, with displays highlighting each stone’s attributes. Every bracelet comes with an Equilibrium gift bag, making them ideal for gifting.

Joe Davies will also launch a range of Equilibrium Fashion Accessories for the coming season, including a range of straw and ra a bags and totes: a timeless trend which has woven its way into the hearts of all fashion enthusiasts, as they combine natural beauty and artisanal craftsmanship while being functional and e ortlessly chic.

New additions include clutch bags, cute mini totes, crossbody bags and handbags in both natural and bold colours, ensuring there is something for all tastes.

You can be assured of a warm welcome on the Joe Davies stand. The friendly award-winning team is ready to show you around, and introduce you to its vast array of gifts, jewellery and fashion accessories. With its signature ‘little and often’ small order quantities and carriage paid orders starting at just £100, Joe Davies ensures that your buying experience is both simple and enjoyable.

Joe Davies Hall 4, Stand C10-D11

Spring Fair is always a long-awaited date in the gift industry diary, as it starts the new year of trading off with an abundance of exciting new products. Joe Davies looks forward to welcoming customers both old and new to its stand in Hall 4. The company is a firm favourite with independent retailers, as they can buy widely across the whole range and try different new products in small and manageable quantities.

Steampunk

If you’re looking for a men’s gift that truly stands out from the crowd, say hello to the latest trend in men’s gifting: Steampunk! The brand-new Steampunk Collection of figures is a fusion of art, creativity and masterful craftsmanship.

Each figure showcases the intricate, mechanical charm of steampunk design. These aren’t just decorative pieces - they’re bold expressions of individuality, perfect for anyone who loves the unconventional.

Ritzy LED Lamps

Following the huge success of the Luxe Lamp Collection, the stunning Posh LED Lamp Collection will also be debuting on the stand. Available in a variety of shapes and colours, these make them a stylish addition to your home. Featuring a rich palette of hues including berry, olive, smoky brown, and indigo blue, these beautiful glass lamps are more than just lighting… They’re a must-have for elevating your living space.

Art in Glass

Explore the enchanting world of glass animal figurines with the new Art in Glass collection. These handcrafted pieces include a wide range of animals from cats and dogs, to sea life and insects - all in vibrant colours. Glass figurines have been popular with collectors for some time now, and this new range will be no exception.

New licence alert!

Museums & Galleries

Hall 3, Stand L30-M31

Museums & Galleries (M&G) has launched a new greeting card, stationery, and gift packaging licence with renowned British textile designer Emily Burningham.

Emily set up her London-based studio in Hampstead in 2007. Her sophisticated designs explore the relationship between distinct eras of art and design and draw influence from traditional wood-block printing techniques. They have a graphic quality that is unmistakably her own.

Emily says: “Maybe designing is my salvation. I think the job of a designer is to try and lift the mood of people and bring happiness to their homes. If I can do that, then I’ve succeeded. It makes me happy to do that.”

M&G’s launch collection comprises a set of 16 embossed fine art cards on textured board, accompanied by discreetly and elegantly branded envelopes. A boutique Christmas collection of six embossed card packs is available for preorder. The gift packaging includes three sheet wrap designs (including one for men), gift bags and gift tissue.

Imagery covers beach scenes, sailing, gardening, interiors and wildlife, especially birds. One of Emily’s great strengths is her approach to florals - simultaneously free and naturalistic, but also sinuously decorative and effortlessly extending into repeat pattern.

Emily says: “I just love flowers - they are so strong and gentle at the same time. They are miraculous. All the colours and patterns… Think fritillaries or tulips or pansies - simply extraordinary! We’d be a lot poorer without them; at least I wouldn’t want to be without them.

“There is simply nothing like watching something grow, bloom and blossom. And most look so beautiful. A home without plants - in whichever form - would be bland and lacking something, to my mind. They bring life and energy. This balance between delicateness and strength is truly fascinating, I think.”

M&G creative director Ben Dorney comments: “We are long-time fans of Emily’s work, so we’re thrilled to now introduce her to M&G customers as an exclusive licence.

The Emily Burningham brand is distinctive and stylish with Japanese-inspired simplicity and a unique palette. It sits at the crossroads between ‘cards & stationery’ and ‘home & interiors’ and we believe it will be a perfect fit for the growing range of M&G products across different categories.”

Sophie Bylina-Williams, M&G’s administration & relationships manager, adds: “Emily’s work achieves a marvellous, seemingly effortless synthesis of classic Englishness and refined modernity that retailers and customers respond to so well. We’re delighted to add her to M&G’s array of talent.”

Emily says: “It’s been a pleasure to work with the M&G team who have reinterpreted some of our favourite classic designs and showcased some of the new additions, drawing out the essence of the EB collection with great success. I always hope that through the designs we can share some of the joy and inspiration we derive from interpreting the natural world.”

A bounty of gifts

Lesser & Pavey Hall 5, Stand D10-E11, D20-E21

Leafy with fruits

Lesser & Pavey has brought together the leafy patterns of the renowned Arts and Crafts designer, William Morris. A delicate leafy range, William Morris Fruits is as popular as ever and comes to the market as a new design to complement all the William Morris designs already available.

The collection includes new shapes of fine china mugs as well as the popular tabletop items of a jug and a tea for one teapot, with complementary coasters, placemats, trays, and a laptray.  Additions to the William Morris ranges of tabletop are a picnic blanket, garden tools, and bath & body gift sets.

Bubbles to relax

The company is delighted to offer a new range of fragranced products to help you relax and unwind. Beautifully packaged bath & body gifts sets include hand and lip care, soap and hand cream, bath fizzers, hand wash and cream, a bath and shower set with a foaming sponge, and a five-piece pamper set with a complementary sponge.

The illustrations come from the highly popular William Morris design with complementary fragrances of Willow Bough (fresh linen), Fruits (lemon and pomegranate), Lodden (fresh linen), Redoute Rose (velvet rose), and bold pinks of the Mother’s Day range of cherry blossom and vanilla.

Flora in the tools

Gardening does not have to be all about mud! A new range brings a bit of glamour to reflect the colours of flora in the form of gift sets. Gardening tool sets are available in two styles: a fork and trowel, and gloves and secateurs.

The flora addition comes from William Morris designs including Willow Bough, Fruits, and  Pimpernel, as well as other colourways of Redoute Rose, Green Fingers, Poppies and William Kilburn. Each set is presented in complementary packaging.

Here comes the sun

Introducing Fun at the Beach: a brand-new licensed range from Finola Stack. Featuring bright, nautical illustrations of beach huts, lifebelts, blue seas, and the fun of the waves and the beach, this colourful collection of four assorted designs includes a quality beach bag, picnic blanket, sandwich tray, fine china mugs, coasters, and placemats to bring the beach into the home.

Animals on parade

Lesser & Pavey has enjoyed huge success with tin ornaments over the years, and its new garden-themed range called Bright Eyes, which features brightly coloured animals with fun expressions, is set to be next. Pictured above is just a selection of exclusive additions to this range.

Call: 01322 279225

Email: sales@leonardo.co.uk

www.leonardo.co.uk

Giving brands a home

The Fragrance House

Hall 4, Stand D41

The Fragrance House has great plans for growth for 2025. Now with six brands under one roof, the offering for retailers is phenomenaland this will continue to grow into the year ahead.

The company’s vision is to create a variety of home fragrance and bath and body ranges with one supply chain - keeping things simple for retailers. Its point of difference is owning the complete supply chain. From the growing of the many fragrances, harvesting and blending to create the stunning products and production - The Fragrance House has total control. This in turn ensures that the quality of the fragrances is premium while keeping the price points competitive.

For Spring Fair, The Fragrance House has streamlined the collections with the best-selling products while creating a compact FSDU (Free Standing Display Unit) for four of the key brands including Waxkind, Betty Hula, Wellness and Fragrant Life. All the FSDUs are visually impactful, while maximising valuable floorspace for retailers.

Each takes just over 2sq ft of floorspace and holds £2,600 retail value of stock, estimated to generate an average of £10K return per annum.

Investment in the business is key for The Fragrance House this year, with a move to an additional production facility in Hertfordshire. The new premises gives a further 10,000sq m - allowing for further growth. Plus, it provides space for additional team members and a planned showroom.

The team behind The Fragrance House’s growth is spearheaded by CEO David Brown, with key industry figures joining who bring a host of expertise. Richard Wood joins as business unit director for the B2B business, heading up the now 13-strong team of agents across the UK and Ireland to drive sales.

Plus, each brand now under The Fragrance House name has had a brand refresh. This overview was led by Winnie Wong, who has joined as brand design manager, and changes can be seen as the new production of each collection and FSDUs runs through to sales. Lisa Robinson has also joined to look at the brand communication strategy and deliver all The Fragrance House news through a B2B PR programme.

With the key infrastructure now in place, the three to five year growth strategy is now in full swing. News will soon be announced of more acquisitions, further strengthening The Fragrance House offering. Watch this space!

The stand at Spring Fair will see big changes. Each brand will be represented with the new streamlined offering, FSDUs in all their glory, and some new CDUs too - again, making things as easy as possible for retailers. Each brand has new fragrance launches, along with some limited editions for Waxkind, plus gift sets for Betty Hula, and promotional offers across the ranges.

See The Fragrance House in Hall 4 on Stand D41, where you can meet the agents and the new team.

The Fragrance House CEO David Brown

JUNIORS REFRESH AVAILABLE TO ORDER NOW

Exciting new designs

Signare Hall 4, Stand F30

Signare is having an extensive design launch at Spring Fair, with new designs featuring ‘Greyfriars Kirkland’ and ‘Magic Cat’, inspired by the ‘Birthplace of Harry Potter’

Located in the Scottish capital, about 10 minutes’ walk from Edinburgh Castle, Greyfriars Kirkyard is one of the most famous graveyards in the world. Its crumbling tombstones and haunting aura make it a popular destination for ghost tours.

Renowned for an eerie atmosphere and rich history, it’s also famously known as the resting place of Greyfriars Bobby, the loyal Skye terrier who guarded his master’s grave for many years, symbolising devotion and love. The little dog’s headstone is at the entrance to the Kirkyard, and his statue can be found nearby, just a few feet away from his adored owner, John Gray.

The Kirkyard is said to be haunted by another resident, George Mackenzie, who was the Lord Advocate for Scotland during the reign of Charles II. Visitors often report strange and unsettling phenomena of his supposed restless spirit: The Mackenzie Poltergeist.

J.K. Rowling, the author of ‘Harry Potter’ (a seven-volume fantasy series published from 1997 to 2007), frequently wrote at The Elephant House café which overlooks Greyfriars Kirkyard. The view may have inspired names and ideas for her characters. Gravestones with monikers like McGonagall are believed to have influenced Rowling’s creation of characters in her Harry Potter series.

Greyfriars Kirkyard bridges history, folklore, and fantasy, leaving a lasting impression on the wizarding world.

Signare is also launching an amazing ‘Rosina Cat’ range, which is licensed by Rosina Wachtmeister, for which it has signed a European licence. Completing the launch will be ‘Swan by Walter Crane’ - a proven winner in the heritage sector - and the new ‘Alice in Wonderland’ design, based on the ‘Mad Hatter’s Tea Party’.

On the new product front, Signare will add a new Cabin Bag (suitable for use on all airlines), allowing users to travel in style, and a Beach Bag, which is a must-have for your 2025 holiday.

Plus, its successful umbrella range has been totally upgraded with the addition of an automatic Umbrella across all designs. View the whole Signare Collection at Spring Fair in Hall 4 on Stand F30.

Call: 01276 29483

Email: info@acjade.co.uk

Homespun charm

Garden Trading Hall 7, Stand C50-D51

New for S/S25 and launching later this year, Garden Trading’s Coxwell Mugs bring a touch of homespun charm with their clay-coloured glaze, raw base, and subtle texture, evoking the essence of a potter’s wheel. Available in cinnamon, chalk, and flint, they pair beautifully with other pieces in the Coxwell kitchenware range for a rustic country aesthetic.

O ering artisanal elegance, the Bladon Half Glazed Mugs feature a reactive white glaze and raw base, with a large, comfortable handle perfect for cosy moments. Choose from classic white or soothing rosemary green to suit your kitchen style.

Finally, the new Clanfield Raw Base Mugs showcase simple yet stylish design, seamlessly blending into both rustic and contemporary settings. Crafted in both rosemary and white stripe, they are a versatile choice for any kitchen. Sold as sets of two, these mugs will debut later this season, making them the perfect addition to refresh drinkware collections.

Call: 01993 845559

Email: sales@gardentrading.co.uk Visit: www.gardentrading.co.uk

Vibrant collection

Louise Tiler Designs

Hall 3, Stand S11

Louise Tiler Designs is excited to participate in Spring Fair, where 58 new designs will be showcased alongside its growing collections. Visitors to the stand will be treated to a vibrant collection of greeting cards for all occasions.

Among the new designs you will find extensions of the brand’s bestselling ranges: Dots & Dashes and Kids Tiny Sparkles. These updated designs build upon the signature style that has made Louise Tiler Designs a recognisable brand, o ering a mix of contemporary and classic hand-painted illustrations that resonate with a wide audience.

Not forgetting the brand’s loyal customers, the company has also refreshed some older bestsellers. These beloved designs have been reimagined with modern updates, ensuring they remain relevant and exciting for today’s market while retaining the charm that made them customer favorites in the first place.

Spring Fair offers the perfect opportunity to discover the latest from Louise Tiler Designs. Don’t miss the chance to explore the full range.

Nature-inspired Lola Design

Hall 3, Stand S24

UK flower farm Dahlia Beach has partnered with Lola Design to create a collection inspired by Dahlia Beach’s iconic dahlias. This collaboration brings the beauty of British flowers into everyday life through thoughtfully crafted products that highlight Dahlia Beach’s blooms with Lola Design’s artistic touch.

Highlights of the Dahlia Beach x Lola Design collection include greeting cards which showcase dahlias and bees, featuring bold stripes and delicate foil details; and stationery such as a gardener’s notebook, journals, a magnetic list pad, and flip pads printed with vegetable inks on FSC-certified paper, with bold floral artwork that brings a burst of colour to everyday organisation.

There is also a gardener’s soap, created especially for green fingers, which features extra shea butter for moisture and ground walnut shells for gentle exfoliation - perfect for a thorough yet pampering clean after a day spent in the garden.

Call: 01904 900141

Email: sales@loladesignltd.com

Visit: www.loladesignltd.com

Creature comforts

The Puppet Company Hall 5, Stand F10-G11

Proudly designed in collaboration with global charity ZSL, The Puppet Company is delighted to introduce the all-new Animal Backpacks collection at Spring Fair.

These incredibly lifelike Backpacks have been created to help support the vital wildlife conservation work that ZSL does around the world. Combining realistic plush design with practical functionality and exceptional attention to detail, the bags have been carefully designed to be worn so they can be ‘cuddled’ while being carried.

The brand will also showcase its upcoming Jumbo Friends Puppet collection which is due to launch in the spring. Also designed in association with ZSL, and combining their joint passion for animals and product expertise, the large animal head puppets have an excellent working mouth movement and wonderful attention to detail and finishes.

The ZSL Collections are produced sustainably, with 45% recycled materials and manufactured to the highest possible safety and quality standards, ensuring long-lasting products.

Call: 01535 957878

Email: contact@louisetiler.co.uk

Visit: www.louisetiler.co.uk

Call: 01462 446040

Email: sam@thepuppetcompany.com

Visit: www.thepuppetcompany.com

Sustainability

and huggability

Keel Toys Hall 5, Stand H20-J21

Keel Toys is bringing enchantment and innovation to life with its 2025 range, and can’t wait to share it with you. Known for pushing the boundaries of design and sustainability, it claims to be leading the way with Keeleco: a collection made from 100% recycled materials.

The company’s mission is simple: to create products that are not only soft and beautiful but also kind to our planet. Each Keeleco toy is crafted from 100% recycled polyester derived from plastic waste, giving it a second life and reducing energy consumption. For instance, 10 recycled water bottles (500ml) can produce enough fibre for an 18cm toy! From FSC-certified hangtags to recycled shipping cartons sealed with paper tape, every detail reflects its commitment to a greener future.

Since launching Keeleco five years ago, Keel Toys has recycled over half a billion water bottles (as of 2024 stock production). With more than 500 products in the range, it’s just getting started. And at Spring Fair, you’re invited to preview and preorder more than 100 brand-new items, including expanded Christmas and Halloween collections.

The reimagined seasonal ranges feature luxuriously soft eco-friendly fabrics, and the festive reindeers, penguins, and huskies are irresistible. Add whimsical charm to your shelves with a plush Yule Log and Christmas cake, or bring some spooky fun with Halloween bats, spiders, skeletons, and pumpkins. But don’t wait: pre-order now, as these magical collections are always in high demand!

Keel Toys is also thrilled to unveil what it believes to be the most comprehensive collection of bag charms on the market. From Keeleco Sealife and Wildlife to Jungle Cats and Farm Animals, these mini masterpieces include a premium metal clip and exclusive Keel Toys logo spinner. Paired with a specially designed display spinner stand, these charms will steal the spotlight in any store.

And for something deliciously di erent, meet Snackies: a quirky range of food-themed characters like Franco Fries and Pablo Pizza. Made from an exclusive tousled recycled fabric, these collectables also come in Love Bites versions with slogans such as ‘Love You a Latte’ on Carlos Co ee.

Building on the success of Plant Bobballs, there are the adorable Flower Bobballs: a daisy, sunflower, tulips, and bluebells, which are perfect for year-round gifting. Meanwhile, the new Puppy Love collection showcases standing and sitting pups complete with collars and leads - all crafted from recycled fabrics.

Sustainability is at the heart of everything Keel Toys does. From installing over 300 solar panels and transitioning to electric vehicles at its headquarters in the Kent town of Ashford, to supporting its manufacturing partners in adopting solar power and heat recovery systems, it aims to set the standard for eco-conscious business practices. Don’t miss the chance to see these products up close. Stop by the Keel Toys stand at Spring Fair to experience the perfect blend of sustainability, innovation, and huggability.

Uplifting and modern

Earlybird Designs

Hall 3, Stand Q24

Earlybird is launching an extension to its popular Super Fab neon designs with some uplifting modern sentiment designs. Creative director Dom Early designed these new cards when he experienced a bereavement back in August 2024, and was underwhelmed by some of the sympathy cards he received.

He says: “People are very kind when you su er from a bereavement. However, there is still a silence where people just don’t know what to say. Most of the cards I received featured lonely imagery and either sorry for your loss or sympathy. So I decided to design some cards to reflect what I would have liked to have received.

“I wanted uplifting messages and colourful imagery so I decided to design with this in mind, by celebrating those we will miss. I’m really happy with how they have come out and the finish looks great.”

Along with these sentiment cards, there are also some eye-catching numbered cards and some strong additions to the birthday range. Using neon inks and a Spot UV emboss finish, these designs are printed on 100% recycled board with a craft fleck envelope.

Earlybird’s bestselling dinosaur card is now available as a Thank you pack, and there’s stunning giftwrap in collaboration with artist Elena Essex. The pack will be joined by six other new neon pack designs launching at Spring Fair, and the Dino wrap will be part of the trade show theme.

“We like to go for an eye-catching theme when we decide on the trade show colours, and when we printed the wrap I liked the idea,” says Dom. “This is a great addition to our giftwrap o ering and I’m sure our customers will love it.”

The wrap is printed on 90gsm recyclable paper, and the card packs on FSC board, with plastic-free recycled craft packaging.

Call: 01227765372

Email: dom@earlybirddesigns.co.uk

Visit: www.earlybirddesigns.co.uk

Rush to this stand!

Rush Design Hall 3, Stand S20

After a fabulous 10th anniversary year in 2024, Rush Design is back at Spring Fair with even more new product for 2025.

Officially launching at the show will be a new collection entitled Wishes & Dreams, which features Female relations and open Birthday; two new Christmas collections - Twinkle and Mocha Moose - offering different sizes and different looks; and Pom Pom, which is a collection of smaller size cards (130x130mm). Plus, there is a collaborative collection with artist Sarah Boddy called Boddy of Works. Joe Davies will also be at Spring Fair showcasing the glassware, ceramics and gift bag lines from its licensing collaboration with Rush.

Rush Design’s Lorraine Bradley says: “We’re really excited to be back at Spring Fair with so much new to show off - and it’s great to see our customers, both new and existing. It’s a long week, what with setting up, show time and breaking down. But we absolutely love it!”

Call: 01788 521745

Email: info@rushdesign.co.uk

Visit: www.rushdesign.co.uk

Quacking good fun

DCUK Hall 4, Stand C01

For the past 20 years, The Original Wooden Duck Company (DCUK) has been passionate about helping people smile every day, thanks to its incredibly popular wooden characters.

Starting back in 2004, the brand creates wooden ducks and feathered friends, each with its own unique personality. Inspired by everyday charm, curiosity and imagination, DCUK’s designs celebrate the beauty of craftsmanship and storytelling, with the help of bamboo root.

Every character is hand-carved and then handpainted individually. For added playfulness, names are printed onto cotton name tags, and then carefully tied around the neck of each one.

Customers can personalise these too if they wish, with a special free naming service offered to official stockists - giving each character’s new owner the opportunity to make them even more personal and relevant. Each one also proudly displays a DCUK Pin, which is a promise that it’s a true DCUK original.

But DCUK customers and collectors don’t just stock or purchase DCUK original characters... They really believe each one is a unique gift that tells a personal story. Or perhaps, adding their own imaginative original story brings their new friend to life in a whimsical, engaging way. Most importantly, they share the brand’s belief that every DCUK character has the ability to help someone smile.

What DCUK has created over the years is not just a popular wooden duck, but an emotionally invested gift purchase that helps people to say positive comments like ‘thank you’, ‘congratulations’, ‘thinking of you’, ‘I’m worth it’, and ‘you’re amazing’.

This approach has been officially recognised in recent weeks, with awards for customer service and

engagement received from the likes of Feefo, Faire, and the judging panel of the hotly contested 2024 NOTTY’s Customer Crusaders Business Award, hosted by The Notworking Networking Club.

It’s also evident from the personal stories shared across the many thousands of five-star reviews from happy customers on DCUK’s Feefo feedback platformand the experiences of official stockists, who also get to feel warm and fuzzy by helping their customers.

As Alice McPaul, of Americana by the Seashore gift shop in the US state of New Jersey, says: “Since displaying DCUK’s characters in our store, I see more smiles, hear more giggles and memories shared between friends and families, and most importantly, see more sales! I can’t wait to order more.”

Indeed, stockists are playfully warned to prepare their customers, as a mere dabble with DCUK can easily turn into a lifelong romance. One duck needs a friend, two start a family, and before you know it, there’s a penguin moving in next door!

On a mission to create characters that encourage people to smile and share emotions through their choice of gifts, DCUK has become a beloved brand for collectors around the world, with 2025 promising to be a landmark year with new partnerships and licences.

Whether it’s the fond feelings that the characters evoke when gifted to loved ones, or the ease of finding something for everyone, the magic of DCUK seems hard to resist.

Call: 01803 866316

Email: mail@dcuk.com

www.dcuk.com/trade

Wrapper’s delight

Glick Hall 3, Stand N10

Aregular face for over two decades at Spring Fair, Glick will be at the show again this year with its biggest and most exciting range to date, featuring more than 300 new products.

Renowned for delivering unique and sustainable luxury gift packaging, Glick will present a veritable array of styles and finishes from bestselling artists such as Paper Salad and Stephanie Dyment across its Everyday, Spring and Christmas ranges, which means it has something to suit every retailer.

The company will showcase its brand-new Everyday range for 2025, starting with the everquirky, colourful Paper Salad collections. There is no better way to say Happy Birthday than with the boxy and bold Vivid Cobalt and Fluorescent Fuchsia, and with Sapphire Spots and Dazzling Daisies depicting birthday candles atop a funky cake. Its Flower Power, Blazing Blooms and Shining Shrooms designs are a hippy celebration of colour and texture!

Also in the spring launch are the timeless elegance of Stephanie Dyment designs: Strawberry Patch, English Garden, Scaloppina, Linea Floral, Birthday Sausage, Happy Hog, Flutes and Golden Stars. You’ll be happy to hear that Glick has increased its bestselling bee meadow range with shopper and bottle bag sizes.

Glick will also present the next chapter of the Stephanie Dyment bestselling Linen Collection: Linen Allure and Linen Latitude. Finally for this launch, Glick will present the Summer Thornton designs of Gilded Tulip, Gilded Blossom, Gilded Wisteria, and the florally-inspired Cottage Garden and Garden Whimsy.

Plus, Glick’s Christmas range is bigger and better than ever before. You can expect the cutest Santa Clauses, traditional Nutcrackers, and divine Nordic pines, which are simply brimming with Christmas spirit. There are crackers and gifts, penguins and scarf adorned dogs as well.

There’s a nod to Christmas florals too, set to the traditional Christmas coloured foils of red, silver and gold, and snowmen in neon bobble hats. And not forgetting Mrs Claus offering turkey pie and Christmas pudding! Glick has it all for Christmas 2025!

Call: 01274 655980

Email: sales@glick.co.uk; info@glick.co.uk

Visit: www.glick.co.uk

Sparkling glory

Loki the

manager

Wild Things Gifts

Hall 4, Stand B22-C23

Wild Things Gifts will be bringing its ‘Magical Timeless Gifts’ to Spring Fair. According to founder Jules Vahrman, “ours will possibly be the brightest lit stand at the show! We start with the best cut crystals we can get - with most coming from Austria or the Czech Republic - set them within our own designs, and then o er customers a range of displays to show them o to their best e ect”.

Jules says Wild Things Gifts aims to be “a one-stop-shop for crystal with the largest range anywhere. We like to think of ourselves as an ‘ethical’ company, building long-term relationships with suppliers and customers alike”.

He predicts that 2025 will “present challenges for our USA exports, with so much unpredictability coming from the top. And with Brexit creating so many difficulties in Europe, our focus will be on UK sales”.

This year Wild Things Gifts aims to build on the successes of 2024…

Pretty Little Birds & Kitties

Pretty Little Birds was a major 2024 success story. With a £9.99 RRP, Jules says he could not have asked for a better response for these handmade hand-painted glass birds with crystal and 24 carat gold paint embellishments. The company has introduced a beautiful emerald colourway and, at the same time, added a completely new range of Pretty Little Kitties.

Veterans with Dogs

Veterans With Dogs (VWD) is an Exeter-based charity which provides companion dogs for veterans with PTSD, which Wild Things Gifts is proud to support by donating a proportion of sales of its Poppy Flower Crystal Suncatchers to the organisation.

Jules comments: “With so much else going on last year, our fundraising e ort was very ‘last minute’, but we still managed to raise over £1,270. It costs £20,000 to fully train an assistance dog, and we will be making every e ort to reach that target in 2025. We are hoping to place our simple till side dispensers in as many shops as possible, and will be taking forward orders at the show.”

Mini Radiance

Following on from the success of Pure Radiance Suncatchers, Wild Things Gifts is introducing a Mini Radiance range. There are 12 di erent designs and they come packaged in high quality white boxes and a range of acrylic ‘outers’. They feature richly coloured jewellery-quality Austrian crystal hearts.

Fabulous Floral Suncatchers

Another 2024 success story was the Birth Month Flower Suncatcher range, and this year the range has been extended to Fabulous Floral Suncatchers, including Sunflowers and Snowdrops.

Jules concludes: “Do pay a visit to our stand to see these products in all their sparkling glory and enjoy some complementary ‘sparkles in a glass’ - and some other surprise goodies! July 2024 marked 40 years in business… Roll on Year 41 for more surprises!”

Call: 01392 211268

Email: sales@wildthingsgifts.com Visit: www.wildthingsgifts.com

black Labrador with (l-r): VWD’s administration

Julie Morrish and CEO Craig MacLellan, and Vicky and Jules Vahrman of Wild Things Gifts

Make it a red Christmas

Best Kept Secrets Hall

B4, Stand B36

est Kept Secrets is excited to showcase its latest collections at Spring Fair. Celebrating 29 years of crafting beautiful, joy-filled products, it has become renowned for stunning fragrances, vibrant wax, and signature sparkle.

The British, family-owned home fragrance company’s bestselling products are lovingly hand-poured at its workshop in the picturesque town of Morpeth in Northumberland, reflecting a proud local heritage and a commitment to sustainability.

At the forefront of this year’s showcase is the highly anticipated Red Collection, created to bring festive joy to the Christmas gifting season. Featuring wax melt cards, candles, diffusers, and the brand’s award-winning Three Lites Boxes, the collection is designed to offer retailers a stunning and affordable seasonal gifting range that embodies the warmth and spirit of the festive season.

In addition, Best Kept Secrets is expanding its popular, awardwinning Three Lites range with exciting new personalisation options. Trade customers can now order bespoke messaging on the much-loved Just Because gifts, enabling retailers to provide their customers with meaningful, personalised gifts for all occasions. Whether it’s a heartfelt message of appreciation, a celebratory note, or a customised touch for a special moment, these personalised products offer a unique gifting experience.

Best Kept Secrets is known for its unwavering dedication to quality, affordability, and sustainability. Its approach ensures it delivers not only beautiful and high-quality products but also sustainable solutions that resonate with consumers.

One collection that epitomises this commitment is Our Fragrant World, created in collaboration with artist Nicky Dawson. This range features environmentally-friendly candles made from certified coconut and plant-based wax, ensuring every step of production is kind to the planet while delivering fabulous fragrances, colour, and sparkle into homes across the UK.

As the winner of the home fragrance category of the Gift of the Year Awards 2024, Best Kept Secrets continues to grow rapidly, building strong relationships with retailers to ensure they deliver products that meet customer demand and provide retail solutions that work. Its ethos of innovation and collaboration is evident in every product, ensuring retailers have access to collections that delight customers and drive sales.

Managing director Vanessa Curry says: “The Red Collection is a festive celebration of everything we stand for: beautiful, highquality products at accessible price points. Our new personalisation options take gifting to the next level, adding a truly special touch to any occasion.”

Call: 01670 512222

Email: sales@bestkeptsecrets.co.uk

Visit the stand to explore the Red Collection and discover how Best Kept Secrets’ personalised Just Because range and sustainable offerings can elevate your store’s gifting experience.

Design-led giftware debut

Belly Button Hall 4, Stand F31

This year proudly sees Belly Button’s exciting, inaugural visit to Spring Fair showcasing a spectacular display of desirable, contemporary and highly giftable items, designed in its Manchester studio with the company ‘putting a heart into its art’.

The extensive giftware portfolio comprises several carefully curated stories translated originally from wellestablished and successful greeting card designs. From tiny tokens oozing in sentiment to high-end-luxe, Belly Button says it has THE giftware to aspire to.

A contemporary ceramic collection begins with porcelain hanging decorations, trinket dishes, and heart-shaped coasters. It boasts an extensive assembly of o erings such as mini mugs and jugs in four sizes and brand-new, long-awaited fine bone china mugs. All the items o er a delightful embellishment to any stylish interior, and could be collected and added to with complementary pieces, making them perfect gifts.

Bathed in beauty, the Belly Button borosilicate glass collection comprises mugs, bud vases, wax melt burners and water bottles, which artfully combine elegance with the essential. Each glass item arrives protectively housed in a gorgeous windowed gift box, and the water bottle’s bamboo lid is Belly Button branded, engraved on top.

And, with a comprehensive range of scented reed di users and candles, Belly Button o ers a beautiful gift to be welcomed in any home, ensuring it has gifts that can be ‘scent’ with love!

Plus, a plethora of paper products await your gaze in the form of various notebooks - in an abundance of sizes from A6 through to A4 in a variety of finishes - with the ultimate o ering of luxury

notebooks embellished with ribbons and pockets inside. And no notebook would be complete without a pen to pair with it. Various display units are o ered to showcase the products.

Dipping its toes into the fashion accessories area, the company also o ers cosy bamboo socks for stylish feet (shortlisted in the fashion accessories, textiles and jewellery category of the Gift of the Year Awards 2025) which are packaged in a gift bag, and pouches with matching compact mirrorselegant must-haves for any handbag.

It goes without saying that included in each range is a selection of tissue papers, giftwraps and gorgeous gift bags, all of which are fully recyclable. For your gifting essentials, Belly Button has got it all wrapped up! Discover more luxury signature giftware and stationery collections on the Belly Button stand in Hall 4, F31.

Stylish new additions

Kenro Hall 4, Stand G12

Kenro is thrilled to be returning to Spring Fair for its 75th anniversary year, showcasing its latest collection of photo frames, albums, and homeware that blend timeless craftsmanship with modern trends to suit every taste and décor. This will mark Kenro’s first return to the show since 2017.

Product highlights include the new Envoy Classic frame series, which offers minimalist PVC frames with a realistic wood-effect finish. Available in five versatile colours - black, brown, grey, natural, and white - these frames include removable white picture mats and come in seven popular sizes. Designed for value and style, they are perfect for any setting.

The new City Series frames combine style and versatility with their sleek aluminium construction and real wood veneer finishes. Available in walnut brown, ash grey, and light natural, they suit both modern and traditional interiors. Each frame includes a removable bevelled white mount, offering two size options, and accommodates photos from 6x4in to A4.

For those seeking elegant sophistication, the Whisper Slimline frames are a perfect choice. Available in four colours of black, white, grey, and wine red, these frames feature silver-plated edges, polished enamel inlays, and velourlined easel backs for versatile portrait or landscape display. Individually gift-boxed, they make premium, thoughtful gifts.

Completing the collection, Kenro is proud to introduce its fully branded Free Standing Display Unit (FSDU): a durable and space-efficient retail solution for showcasing frames and albums. Available free to trade customers placing qualifying orders, the FSDU is designed to boost in-store impact and sales.

Visit Kenro in Hall 4 on Stand G12 to explore these stunning new products along with its full range, discover exclusive trade offers, and speak with its friendly team about how Kenro can support your business.

Call: 01793 615836 Email: sales@kenro.co.uk

www.kenro.co.uk

Celebrating 21 years of luxur y produc ts in 2025!

This year we’re marking a miles tone - 21 years of Di Palomo!

To celebrate , we’re relaunching our luxur y ranges with a modern touch, bringing you an elevated experience like never before.

Our Wild Fig & Grape evokes an escape to the sun-drenched vineyards of the Mediterranean, making every moment reminiscent of those summer days. Orange Blossom with wild honey & olive embraces the freshness of a summer breeze, per fect to carry you through the day and Tuscan Dreams with Lavender & Chamomile is exper tly crafted to soothe your senses and send you into a peaceful slumber

St ay tuned for the relaunch—luxur y awaits, as we redefine bath and body luxur y with the essence of It aly in every produc t.

Come and visit us at Spring Fair Bir mingham 2nd - 5th Februar y 2025 Hall 4 - 4E62, 4E65 & 4E67

Bring joy to your store!

Rex London Hall 4, Stand H60-J61

Since 1981, Rex London’s illustrators and buyers have delighted in designing, creating and searching for the perfect items for your store, from timeless toys and nostalgic novelties to on-trend home decor and garden gifts.

The company sells a bright and eclectic range, making it easy for your customers to find that perfect gift, whatever the occasion. It brings a large and diverse range of products to market every year, to keep shoppers coming back for all those special milestones and events, from Christmas and birthdays to first homes, new babies, and anniversaries.

Rex London has been trading successfully for 44 years. It is completely customer-focused in what it buys, with everything conceived, designed and sourced from its London headquarters. This strategy has helped it grow from strength to strength across the decades, recently closing out a successful 2024 with the UK wholesale business in particular enjoying another good year. Customers - old and new - are responding to the e orts of the in-house design and buying teams which consistently work hard to grow the product o ering, with plenty more to come in 2025 and beyond.

The company says this customer-centric approach is just one of the factors that sets it apart from other gift suppliers. For example, it recently released a wooden farm playset following customer feedback and requests for a farm toy. It has a gift for quite literally every occasion and every person (even the ones who are seemingly impossible to buy for!). All items carry Rex London’s distinctive designs and colour palettes, which are carefully curated by the in-house creative teams.

The supplier is committed to making its products as accessible as possible, especially for smaller independent stockists, with no minimum order and carriage paid at £250. Everything on its trade website is in stock and ready to dispatch.

New products and designs are added nearly every week, rather than releasing large collections or working seasonally. This flexible, proactive approach means stockists are able to regularly refresh their stores with something brand new, or top up bestselling design stories with additional lines.

With a wealth of experience and instinct (many members of the senior team have been part of the organisation since its early beginnings), Rex London will continue to bring exciting new products to market, honouring its established, distinct style while reflecting current consumer trends.

To see what’s in store, you can explore Rex London’s bestsellers and new collections at Spring Fair. The team is really looking forward to connecting with customers in 2025.

There’s a character in every one

New 2025 catalogue plus autumn and Christmas pre-orders.

Download our catalogue and price list. Simply head over to dcuk . link/gif tstoday or point your phone camera here…

Experience a sensory tour

Home County Co. Hall 4, Stand D72-E73

For seven years, Home County Co. has been bringing to life the stories of the UK’s most beautiful places through its unique fragrances, named after - and inspired by - 41 counties and counting.

Ranging from Cornwall’s coastline to Scotland’s Highlands, its County Collection o ers a one-stop-shop of thoughtful gifts in home fragrance. So from Devon’s delicious Cream Tea to Argyll’s Scotch Whisky, you can experience a sensory tour of the British Isles in Hall 4 on Stand 4D72-E73.

The company is now taking its passion for England’s heritage one step further, by launching its brand-new o cially licensed English Heritage home fragrance collection at Spring Fair. This unique collection of home fragrances and toiletries, which has been created for the English Heritage charity by Home County Co., is hand-poured in Buckinghamshire and directly inspired by the e orts of English Heritage to conserve England’s coast, meadows, orchards and woodlands.

The collection consists of a full home fragrance range of beautifully-scented soy candles, reed di users, liquid hand soaps, lotions, soap bars and hand creams in four luxury fragrances. Profits will go towards helping English Heritage to conserve the beauty that inspired the fragrances in the first place.

Also brand-new on the Home County Co. stand will be a collection of county soap bars, available in all 44 fragrances to match its ever popular County Candles.

Spring into action!

Floss & Rock Hall 5, Stand E10-F11

Floss & Rock is bringing its Spring/Summer 2025 range to Spring Fair, giving you the opportunity to discover new ways to play, doodle, make, colour, stick, and more.

In the new launch, you’ll find 35 lines, including a brand-new ‘Ocean’ illustration, four completely new products, and some additions to popular ranges you may already be familiar with.

The company’s co-founder and creative director Gill Stratton says: “We’re so excited to be back at Spring Fair, seeing lots of familiar faces and meeting some new ones too. I’m particularly keen for customers to see and experience our new Creative Art range additions.

“And we’re all very excited about the new Clay & Play product, which teaches you to build 10 clay figure friends. Likewise, our Colour Switch Magic line (magic colour-changing pens and a really cool notebook/doodle pad, complete with stickers) has had an extremely positive response, including being shortlisted in the children’s, educational and pre-school category of the Gift of the Year Awards 2025.”

Floss & Rock is an award-winning, international children’s gift and toy brand hailing from the North West of England. Formed in 2016 by husband-and-wife team Tim Hislop and Gill Stratton, the company keeps creativity and fun at the very core of the business.

The couple prioritises traditional play values and creates unique gifts and toys for children primarily aged two to 10. Designed by the seaside in Blackpool (the land of candy ‘Floss’ and sticks of ‘Rock’), expect to see bright, modern products that avoid tech, plastics and screen time.

Call: 01253 831500

Email: enquiries@flossandrock.co.uk

Visit: www.flossandrock.co.uk

Charlie Bears is a British collectable bear company with hundreds of retailers worldwide. Visit us at Spring Fair at the NEC and become a Charlie Bears retailer.

From our adorable little Cuddle Cubs and Bear & Me companions that are suitable from birth and machine washable, to our limited-edition bears that are handmade using only the nest fabrics, Charlie Bears is for everyone.

We will have exciting new ranges and some characters from our 2025 collection on display at the Spring Fair, NEC Birmingham, 2nd - 5th Februar y 2025. We’re excited to meet you on our stand to show you our collections and to discuss becoming a Charlie Bears retailer. Visit us at Spring Fair on Stand 4A42 or contact us today to nd out more about our bears with personalities for collectors of all ages.

Talking scents

Manor House Hall 3, Stand T31

This year has started with the addition of four new fragrance collections from Manor House - Cherry Smoke, Santal Blush, Vetiver Amber, and Wisteria - which complement its existing wide fragrance collection.

Managing director and owner Darren Ellis says:

“We expanded upon our already large fragrance o ering last year with launches including Berries, Grapefruit & Cedar, and Raspberry & Pink Pepper, which were very well-received. And our Spring 2023 launch of Soy Wax Candles in Tins (silver tins for year round and gold for Christmas) have sold beyond all expectations.

“Our collection now encompasses a total of 32 gorgeous fragrances to choose from, which is our largest o ering to date. And we are in the process of creating new fragrances to continue to add to the collection.”

“The fact that our products are handmade in England is what so many stockists want. Our pot pourris are all designed in-house, using the finest botanicals available to purchase. They are fragranced using high-end oils, and then finished with individual flowers, petals and seed pods, before every box and bag is hand-tied ready to display. Our fragrance oils are great for refreshing pot pourri or for traditional and even electric oil burners, and these remain one of our top-selling products.

“Our Botanical Candles have again sold far more strongly than expected and, being available in four sizes (from small single wicks to extra large luxury five-wick versions), enables stockists to build a stunning collection.

“All our Botanical Candles are produced using the highest quality waxes and fragrances to match with the pot pourris, and have hand-placed flowers and seed pods added

before hand-wrapping and tying. And our glass candles are both simple and stylish and offered in matching gift boxes - again, ready to display.

“Our Reed Di users, Di user Refills and Room Sprays are hand-poured with a high percentage of fragrance before being boxed and again, tied by hand to complete the collection.

“Many stockists also include our luxury hand wash and moisturisers to add a practical and useful addition. All the lotions are created bespoke for us. They are not tested on animals and are safe to the environment and not harmful in any way.

*In addition, our Drawer Liners are handprinted and infused with fragrances, along with our triple fabric bags and cushion stacks - all for use in clothes’ drawers and wardrobes to gently fragrance.

“Our Facebook page (Manor House Home Fragrance Ltd), Twitter account (ManorHouseHome1) and Instagram account (Manorhousehomefragrance01), which link our business with our retailers and final-end customers and clients, are gaining many followers and numerous positive comments.

“Finally, Private Label Home Fragrance is increasing dramatically year-on-year and we are currently working with more and more leading retailers to produce private label collections, incorporating clients’ thoughts, ideas, fragrances and branding, to o er bespoke and unique oneo collections.

“We also now o er a standard selection of on the shelf gift boxes in various colourways to suit the slightly smaller retailers.”

Call: 01359 250720

Email: sales@manorhousehomefragrance.co.uk

Fancy fl orals

Alexander Thurlow Hall 3, Stand F20

AExciting

lexander Thurlow has changed a lot since its early days at Spring Fair. The move that saw it go from fashion jewellers to specialising in flower jewellery has been incredibly popular and successful.

This change in direction has allowed Alexander Thurlow to really grow into its niche, which it believes o ers something di erent to other gift suppliers. Flowers have, and always will be, a wonderful gift due to the response they emote in people - everything from remembrance, joy, love, and friendship, to solidarity, hope, strength, and devotion.

Alexander Thurlow’s Bluebell jewellery was the starting point of its inspiration from nature and, as its bestselling flower, this doesn’t show any signs of slowing down, swiftly followed by the classic Snowdrops, Lily of the Valley, Forget Me Nots and Poppies. The company’s relatively new gold finish range has provided an even greater depth to its o ering, with Lilies, Marigolds and Irises being the standout flowers in gold.

There are so many flower types and colour variations in nature that there will always be room for new designs to be introduced to the range. At Spring Fair there will be the opportunity to see the latest from Alexander Thurlow, including a beautifully delicate Delphinium brooch, a stunning Chrysanthemum brooch, and the Orchid spray brooch which has been given a golden makeover, plus many more. Alexander Thurlow would love to see you at the show, so please pop along to its stand to meet the very friendly team, and look and feel first-hand the beautiful pieces of jewellery on display to truly get to know this wonderful brand.

House of Marbles

Hall 5, Stand E18-F19

Based in South West England, House of Marbles has been supplying toys, games, gifts, books, and marbles for over 50 years. its products are renowned for their quality, unique designs, and ability to bring joy to customers of all ages.

At Spring Fair, House of Marbles will launch its eagerly anticipated 2025 range, which features an assortment of new and exciting products. It is thrilled to introduce brandnew ranges such as Animals Altogether and Ponsworthy Farm that will captivate new and existing customers. From the interactive ‘Make Your Own Periscope’ to the memorymatch vegetable patch game, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Plus, House of Marbles has you covered if you would like to o er a diverse selection of gift books in your shop. Its extensive range of children’s books is available at various prices, catering to all budgets. It even has a selection of grown-up books, which are humorous, witty and informative, making them great gifts.

Looking for something unique? House of Marbles o ers bespoke products that are thoughtfully designed and can be tailored to your business. Whether adding your logo to its products or creating a unique game for your brand, the company will bring your vision to life. Contact mark@houseofmarbles.com for further information.

A visit to the House of Marbles’ stand is a must for retailers seeking to o er entertaining and unique products. Its team looks forward to reconnecting with longtime customers and welcoming new businesses. House of Marbles aims to make every year at Spring Fair fun and engaging for everyone who visits its stand, and is ready to assist you in making the perfect selections for your 2025 o erings.

Colour splash

Miss Milly Hall 3, Stand F11

Miss Milly owner Sarah Watmore says: “We always think we can’t possibly get more colourful, but when we saw that iridescence was a key feature for S/S25, we happily realised we could!”

The British brand has a fresh and bright core colour palette for S/S25 featuring mint, aqua, yellow and coral brought together with navy, and, Sarah comments, “the new jewellery and scarf collection is looking stunning”.

She notes: “While yellow is not an easy colour to work with in jewellery, we have achieved a fantastic capsule collection using a marbled resin in sunflower yellow. Featuring dragonflies, flowers and hearts, it’s very feminine while still managing to offer both delicate and bold pieces. And iridescence has been added throughout the resin jewellery, creating pretty colour changes as it moves with the light.”

As always, the jewellery will be showcased with co-ordinating scarves in a complementary range of spring and summer colourways featuring florals, leaves, spots, chevrons and abstract designs. And new magnetic brooch additions will sit with the scarves, including a turtle and dragonflies.

But Miss Milly’s biggest news is the launch of its handbag and purse collection. Crafted from recycled leather and handmade in India by skilled artisans, these products align with the company’s commitment to sustainability, offering retailers an eco-friendly addition to their accessory ranges.

Created with the Miss Milly signature passion for colour in mind, each combines bold shades with a mix of plain and patterned leather. Using leather offcuts not only reduces waste but also gives new life to high-quality materials, making these pieces as durable as they are stylish. And it means the resulting products are totally unique.

Opticaid

Hall 4, Stand B41

Opticaid will showcase a fresh selection of styles, including Remaldi sunglasses, an expanded collection of reading glasses, and unique gift ideas.

For S/S25, eyewear trends are making a bold statement. Thick, oversized frames continue to dominate, particularly in reading glasses, offering a strong, fashion-forward look.

Expect to see geometric shapes taking centre stage, with statement rectangles, hexagons, 1970s-inspired aviators, and square frames that turn eyewear into a key accessory. Meanwhile, on the more subtle side, smaller rectangular frames are making a return, catering to those who prefer a more discreet, refined look.

When it comes to sunglasses, bold, dramatic shapes are in - with cat-eyes, rectangular block frames, and wraparound designs leading the way. The influence of the 1970s and 1980s is still prominent, with aviators, round sunglasses, and bold browlines making a comeback.

Colour-wise, expect soft earthy browns, sage greens, aqua, dark blue dusk, and warm hues like orange and yellow to dominate the season. Pastels such as pink, mint green and lilac add a refreshing touch of lightness to the collection.

The Opticaid team is looking forward to catching up with existing customers and meeting new ones at the Spring Fair, and can’t wait to share its latest designs with you.

Shine bright

Sea Gems Hall 2, Stand G10-J11

Afamily-run jewellery and gift company with more than 40 years of design heritage and experience, Sea Gems has created new collections for Spring 2025. Designed in Cornwall, the silver jewellery and gift collections capture the essence of the area’s iconic landscape and Celtic heritage, o ering original products for gift shops, boutiques, and jewellery stores.

The ‘Silver Origins’ jewellery brand features contemporary sterling silver with delicately textured and polished surfaces, together with gold vermeil or semi-precious stones. You will discover striking organic designs with beachcomber shells, botanical, and wildlife themes, as well as fun, whimsical motifs.

The ‘Celtic Lands’ silver collection celebrates Cornwall’s heritage with stunning and elaborate knotwork. New designs give a fresh look to the already successful brand. And the art of fine enamelling, with its fusion of vibrant colours, creates truly unique jewellery and gifts in the brand’s Mackintosh, Celtic and nature ranges. Inspired gift ranges include pens, bookmarks, compact mirrors, and pillboxes.

Child’s play

Rainbow Designs Hall 3, Stand M10-N11.6

Don’t miss all of the new bestselling licensed ranges from Rainbow Designs at Spring Fair this year! Alongside the ever-popular Peter Rabbit, Disney’s Winnie the Pooh and Lion King, Paddington, and Harry Potter Wizarding World, the company will be introducing some exciting collections that are joining its infant and gifting portfolio.

Call: 01329 227300

Email: sales@rainbowdesigns.co.uk

In a new strategic distribution partnership for 2025, Rainbow Designs will be joining forces with globally recognised Sri Lankan family-run toy company Tikiri Toys, to o er its signature lineup of organic soft toys and natural rubber toys. The range includes an extensive selection of timeless and classic Bonnika Soft Dolls. These traditional and contemporary soft huggable dolls are created from the most beautiful fabrics. There is also a very colourful welcome to another new licence that is joining the Rainbow family this summer: the Mr. Men Little Miss range! Rainbow’s new range will include the iconic characters Mr Tickle, Mr Happy, Mr Bump and Mr Strong, alongside Little Miss Hug, Little Miss Sunshine, Little Miss Princess and Little Miss Chatterbox, in an adorable collection of large cuddly cushions, collectable plush toys and plush keychains.

Visit: www.rainbowdesigns.co.uk

Ravensburger Hall 5,

RStand H25

avensburger’s Oxfordshire-based puzzle development team has been building on its ever-growing roster of talented regional artists to o er a jigsaw lineup that delivers something for every puzzler.

At Spring Fair, the company will showcase nostalgic waterside life with ‘Busy Day by the Canal’ from Yorkshire artist Kevin Walsh, and Dorset-based Steve Read has delivered another puzzle adding to the ever-popular My Haven series in ‘Bohemian Retreat’ (number 12 in the collection). Plus, collectors’ favourite Linda Jane Smith has a surprise in store with the first in a new series that introduces us to the world of ‘Dapper Dogs’.

Among contemporary puzzles, Angela Holland of Nottingham has designed the quirky ‘Flamingo Park’ with its pink lido. Ravensburger’s new Art & Soul series adds to its lineup with further items including the vibrant ‘Flower Festival’ 750-piece puzzle, which joins others such as the ‘Bird Watching’ and ‘Romeo & Juliet’ puzzles. This collection brings together art from up-and-coming artists from across the globe.

Alongside adult puzzles, the company will present a raft of children’s puzzles bringing

Heartfelt keepsakes Puzzle time

together licensed o erings in both 2D and 3D, as well as introductions such as the Puzzle Up series of multi-puzzle jigsaw sets, which provide fun and learning themes with age recommendations ranging from two years-plus to six years-plus.

Also for the younger audience, the company will showcase bestsellers and launches across the popular Brio brand, and the recently launched Play+ infant and toddler collection which includes toys and books. The brand’s Spin & Pop Leopard suction toy received a Gold Award in the prestigious MadeforMums Toy Awards 2024, while the 4-in-1 Colour & Shape Sorter Chameleon was selected for the Top Toys for Christmas 2024 by ITV’s This Morning daytime magazine show.

Ravensburger continues momentum for its games o ering with new card games including the Level 8 rummy-style game. This range includes Disney Stitch and Super Mario Bros. editions. Hit board game Disney Eye Found It! has also been translated into an easy to take-along card game format.

Hall 4, Stand J10

Brand-new from Personalised Memento Company (PMC) is this wonderful Personalised Multi-Photo Special Date Framed Print. Simply add your photos and a personalised message to create a oneof-a-kind gift that will look great in any home. This is a fantastic gift to mark any occasion, from a wedding to a graduation or even a special family holiday.

And this personalised pink child’s watch from PMC is an ideal present for a young one, whether celebrating a birthday or commemorating a christening. With the ability to add your own personalised message, and presented in a black box, it creates a heartfelt gift that will be treasured day after day.

With a growing range of on-trend giftware and selling solutions to suit all retailers, there has never been a better time to sell personalised gifts. Visit PMC in Hall 4 on Stand J10 to see its full range of new products.

Sustained growth

The Wheat Bag Company

Last year The Wheat Bag Company marked its tenth anniversary. Founder Sally Moore says: “This is a testament to our sustained growth. We’ve achieved substantial brand recognition, reinforcing our presence in both retail and domestic markets.

“Several new product launches have exceeded expectations, notably our Wheat Lavender Bottles, which surpassed projected festive sales. And we’re delighted to announce that our Microwavable Wheat Bottle has been shortlisted in both the Made In The UK and Health & Wellbeing & Accessible Gifts categories of The Gift of the Year Awards 2025. Our new linen collection has also demonstrated strong consumer demand.

“Moving forward to this year, we’re actively participating in trade shows nationwide and exploring opportunities to expand our product portfolio. Furthermore, we will be introducing some new and beautiful fabrics across our product lines throughout 2025.

“Most importantly, we’re excited about the ongoing development of our new website

Hall 4, Stand G80

and the launch of our BEDDY BUDDIES product line: a comforting, microwavable companion which is soft, cute and cuddly, with a removable British flaxseed-filled inner pouch for convenient microwavable heating for added warmth.

“Please contact our sales team for any enquiries. If you’re thinking about being a stockist, we have custom-made display stands available to display our products (T&Cs apply). We’re happy to help and look forward to hearing from you.

“We’re looking forward to exhibiting at Spring Fair and will have a few more exciting products to showcase. Please call by and see us in Hall 4 on Stand G80.”

Whiz Kid Games

Whiz Kid Games, the company that designs games to entertain and educate, is stepping into the world of UK sales. The firm, which created the Go Genius brand, originally focused on a distributor-led model for its route to market. But for 2025, this is set to change.

Whiz Kid Games founder - and former managing director of The Lagoon Group - Heather Watherston said: “We’re delighted to announce that this year we will no longer be using distributors in the UK. We will be selling direct to customers ourselves. We will continue to use distributors and licensees outside the UK, but we thought: who better to tell the Go Genius story in our home market than the people who created the brand and develop the games?”

The company has lots of new lines for 2025, including a range of fun animal card games for preschoolers, more Go Genius board games, and some matching pairs games.

For Junior Go Genius, children aged three-plus score points for answering multiple choice questions about the animals correctly

Hall 5, Stand F54

while looking out for the bonus SLAM cards, which they can win by slamming their hands on the cards and shouting out animal noises! As well as teaching children about farm, african and ocean animals, these games help improve their observation, concentration and communication skills.

Among the new board games are Go Genius IQ and Go Genius Lateral Thinking. Both require children to get from start to finish by answering questions correctly. IQ calls for kids to think logically and use reason to get questions right, while Lateral Thinking needs them to throw logic to the wind and think laterally. Winners get to put a genius stamp (provided) in their Go Genius passports (also provided for children to personalise). Call: 01747 840 500 Email:

Co-directors

“An amazing journey”

Clare Turner talks to David Robertson, managing director of gift and card stores Pozzi and Bijou, which are based in the towns of Buckie and Elgin on the Moray coast in Scotland

What’s your background?

I graduated as a primary teacher in 1996 and worked full-time for two years. Then, due to my dad’s illness, I joined the family business full-time. I had always been involved but when that happened I decided to make retail my career.

Tell us about your business.

My dad was 53 when he bought our first store in 1988, with my mum Lynda (pictured above) 10 years younger. Having turned 50 last year, I realise this was so brave as they basically risked everything for our business and worked exceptionally hard to establish and grow it from a single small site to the group of owned buildings we now have.

There are two Pozzi stores in the town of Buckie, which is on the Moray coast. Pozzi at 8 High Street offers an extensive selection of cards, gifts and jewellery and has a 20-seat cafe. Pozzi at 17b High Street has a more value-based selection of cards, gifts, stationery and partyware.

Our flagship store called Bijou is located 17 miles away on Elgin’s Batchen Street. Spread over two floors, it o ers cards, gifts, and jewellery, and boasts a 70-seat cafe.

In 2022 we launched a retail website, and this built on the complete rebrand of the business, carried out in 2018 working with design and print agency CP&Co in Inverurie.

It’s been an amazing journey. Over the years we’ve had a fire (caused by someone breaking in), a massive flood (from a flat above), a break-in, and many other trials and tribulations… However, we’ve always been here - through the good times and bad - to serve our community.  There are of course many other challenges, almost on a daily basis. But we keep going, with determination and unshakeable self-belief.

Although started initially by dad, as he always wanted his own business, ultimately it was made a success by mum who truly believed and saw a vision that could work. We were a fantastic team of three and still are, even though dad is not with us now.

People who have not grown up in retail will think it’s just a shop, but it’s far from that. The real driving force of the gift and card part was my mum. We are joint buyers, and the success of what we’ve built, and the look we project, is down to us both.

Describe your range.

Each store caters for di erent demographics, and we try to keep them di erent - especially the two stores on the same street in Buckie. With three distinct spaces with unique shopfits and buildings, we are able to showcase many ranges.

The main store in Buckie, and Bijou in Elgin, stock key ranges such as Jellycat, Joma Jewellery, Coeur De Lion, Stoneglow, Zelly and several other premium brands. We will also mix in ranges from more value-based gifting companies such as Widdop & Co. and Joe Davies and blend it to create a really varied selection. The smaller store in Buckie is aimed at young families and as a result has di erent product at a di erent price range.

Our stores will always have the biggest, best brands out there, but we love to have new companies, small ranges, and fashion gifting to ensure the stores are di erent. I believe that this is what truly sets us apart from the chains. What are your key categories?   Plush is key, with the Jellycat brand essential. We’ve been a customer for many years but its importance to indies cannot be stressed enough. Ladies’ fashion, scarves, and jewellery is crucial for self-gifting and

friend gifting.  For this, Joma Jewellery has been the backbone for a long time and shows no sign of stopping. And finally, home fragrance.

Core suppliers include Zelly, David Jones, Stoneglow, PoM, Enesco, Coeur De Lion, Joe Davies, and Widdop & Co. ‘Life Events’ are still a huge part of what we do. And there are always babies and weddings to keep us busy!

Two special mentions: Miss Milly is a fantastic small company specialising in scarves and matching jewellery but without doubt its hidden secret is its magnetic brooches. And a company with only one scent is a little bit of a unicorn, yet when that scent is the one from Inis, it really is a bestseller all-year-round.

What’s proving popular?

The two Js are essential: Jellycat and Joma Jewellery. Jellycat continues to build and the product keeps getting stronger. This plush is exceptionally well made and makes people smile - and it’s bringing new generations into the stores.

Today I witnessed a young couple who I wouldn’t have imagined would be our customers buy Timmy Turtle and a bag charm. At the same time, an elderly lady purchased a bunny for her granddaughter, and a young child picked up an Ooky Ghost! Three great sales to three di erent generations of customers - all of whom hopefully loved the shop, the service, and will be back for other things. What other product can do that?

Joma Jewellery shows no sign of slowing down - we sell multiple bracelets every single day. The A Littles range is without doubt the star, but scarves and other elements from sister brand Katie Loxton also work very well.

David and Lynda Robertson

A newer star is the Australian brand Home Fragrance Co. Its crystal potpourri and diffusers are great and have given us a new product to work well with alongside Stoneglow.

Joe Davies’ Rush Blossom and Lesser & Pavey’s Hearts Designs glassware ranges have done very well too. And Alice Wheeler London has been a constant performer for a number of years and keeps introducing new product.

Where do you find products?

Our diary is: Harrogate Christmas & Gift, Spring Fair, and Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival. We usually visit Scotland’s Trade Fair Spring as well, and attend a London show to see where trends/ colours are going.

With 37 years of trading, we’re also lucky to have a very established network of reps and agents who call on us regularly and share new products with us.

What’s your selection criteria?

We look for quality, and of course price, but ultimately we want to be sure that products stand the test as gifts or self-purchases.

How do you get the word out there?

We use social media for ‘unboxing’ videos and product launches. We haven’t done TikTok yet but we really need to!

Do you offer any services?

We have a loyalty offer for our hot drinks - this links into dwell time in the store. I believe that the longer customers spend in the store, the more relaxed they are, and the more they will look properly at the stock and will buy. We also offer gift vouchers both in-store and online - our tagline for these is ‘Choose what you love, love what you choose…’

What’s on your counters/by the till?

Chocolate from a small bespoke brand, really cool designer sneaker keyrings, and Zelly stick-on nails!

Are you looking at expanding into new product categories?

I’ve recently read a lot of articles on the theme of ‘simplify to amplify’. While new product is essential, key bestsellers are also a focus. Sometimes we can add too much, and the notion of an ‘Aladdin’s Cave’ may actually be too much for a customer to take in.

We drop in and out of most categories from food to fashion to beauty, as well as the core lines

of wedding, baby and significant age product. Ultimately you adapt and go where needs be. If you look back 10 to 15 years, brands such as Border Fine Arts were cornerstones of our business. Now ornaments are few and far between and tend to have a heavy amount of sentiment to make them work.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of your job?

Customer interaction: explaining a new brand or concept to someone is always a fun part of the job. I’m a natural salesperson. I find it easy to speak about our brands and stores because I believe in what we sell and the way that we display it. It may sound like a cliché but if we don’t like something we won’t sell it.

And the most challenging?     We operate a team of 41 staff and balancing all their individual challenges alongside the business is not for the faint-hearted. Adding new team members, keeping a work-life balance, and being able to afford all the costs involved is a huge challenge. Quite simply, you need to have the right people in your business to be a success.

Do you have a favourite gift?

Jellycat’s Wilf Wolf, which is also my two-year-old son’s favourite toy!

What advice would you give to someone starting out in gift retailing?       Be prepared to work at the biggest puzzle of your life. Starting any retail business at this time is a huge risk. The high streets are challenging places and that’s the first real issue: getting the correct site - which is the size you need and can affordis crucial.

Product selection is the next part of the puzzle: being able to become a stockist is one part, and then the cost of securing stock for your store is a large outlay. Getting the correct team to work alongside you (even if it’s to just give you a day off) is also very demanding.

Getting the branding, PR, social media and sales are other issues. And finally, keeping all the records straight and making a profit is not a given either.

But working for yourself is the best feeling. Finding something new that suddenly lots of people love is exciting, and being told that your window or shop display looks awesome is very satisfying.

Trade talk

We ask a selection of Spring Fair exhibitors to reveal what products they are most excited about launching at this key trade show

Gillian Marchbank Managing Director

Opticaid

Hall 4, Stand B41

What’s the big news on your stand ?

Well, Spring Fair is always our biggest trade show of the year in terms of stand size and sales, so we always put a lot of preparation in. We will be showcasing our new Remaldi reading glasses, sunglasses and our new premium Florence Eco reading glasses, which we’re very excited about. We always dedicate a lot of merchandise space to our bestsellers too.

As usual, we will be advertising in a lot of trade publications as well as emailing our existing trade customers. By combining our focus on both new and established products, a strong marketing effort, and a targeted approach to attracting new customers, we hope it will be a successful Spring Fair.

Spring Fair is celebrating its 75th anniversary – how long have you been going, and what changes have you noticed over the years? Any special memories you can share?

Opticaid has been attending the show for about 16 consecutive years. In fact, I can’t remember a time when we didn’t exhibit! As usual we’re in the Gift destination: Hall 4, on Stand B41. It’s a good location for us.

Although the fair is now smaller and there is a reduction in international visitors, [organiser] Hyve has made the various show sectors (home, gifts, fashion, and lifestyle) more visually distinct and easier to navigate.

Additionally, it has fully embraced digital technologies - promoting the event through social media, developing a dedicated show app, and ensuring that exhibitors cater to both traditional retailers, direct-toconsumer brands, and digital retail platforms.

I think one of our most memorable moments was when a Swiss buyer bought two pallets worth of our RFID blocking credit card wallets - so, not even eyewear! It was a lot of stock that we successfully exported to Switzerland. That was a very good show.

What are your hopes for your company in 2025?

We are quietly optimistic. We hope our new high-end Eco Florence reading glasses will perform well, which would allow us to expand this range into new styles. This aligns with our ambition to grow our eyewear collection with sustainable products made from renewable resources such as cotton plants and wood fibres.

And we aim to continue strengthening the Remaldi brand, establishing it as a more recognisable name, and maintaining our commitment to offering stylish, high-quality reading glasses at affordable prices.

What are the biggest challenges and opportunities facing giftware suppliers right now?

There are several economic challenges, including inflation and the costof-living, which in turn impact spending. We need to try and maintain profit margins but keep products affordable. Plus, ongoing supply chain disruptions and rising shipping costs create increased pressures.

The demand for sustainable and ethically produced products continues to grow, and quite rightly we need to adapt but changes can be costly, especially for smaller businesses.

Finally the continued growth of online shopping has shifted the retail landscape, so we have to navigate new sales channels while maintaining strong relationships with retailers. We need to remain proactive, balancing the need for sustainable products, offering unique products, and embracing digital tools.

Sarah Watmore Owner Miss Milly Hall

3, Stand F11

What’s the big news on your stand?

The launch of our gorgeous bags and purses handcrafted from recycled leather in India. They are colourful, practical and a great use of the offcuts from the leather industry that would otherwise go to landfill. Due to the way they are created with the offcuts, each piece is unique; a great selling point to consumers. And their boldness fits really well with our brand. Spring Fair is celebrating its 75th anniversary - how long have you been going, and what changes have you noticed over the years? Any special memories you can share?

Miss Milly launched at Autumn Fair in 2012 but I exhibited at my first Spring Fair in 2006 with my previous jewellery business, so this year is my 19th anniversary. Nowhere near 75, but the show has still changed a lot, particularly with regards to the exhibitors taking part and the development of brands rather than suppliers.

Spanning both businesses from about 2010 to 2018, I had a 10x1m stand that was the envy of my neighbours and I was frequently asked if I was rebooking it for the next year.

There was also the Spring Fair of 2007, which fell about a week after my daughter Milly was born. I was busy sorting jewellery the day after I came out of hospital. And then it snowed and her dad couldn’t make it home from the show. At least it gave me an extra day before having to start processing the orders!

What are your hopes for your company in 2025?

That our customers, and the industry as a whole, weather the upcoming cost increases. Our aim is for a solid consolidation year for the jewellery and scarves with a continuation of consistent growth, and a successful launch of the bags and purses enabling us to expand that collection for A/W.

What are the biggest challenges and opportunities facing giftware suppliers right now?

The GPSR (General Product Safety Regulations) are a huge concern for small businesses selling into Northern Ireland and the EU. Many have just had to put those customers to one side for a while, and see if any of the regulations change, as the costs and administration are quite onerous. And this is only the start, with Product Passports on the horizon.

We think we’re able to make it work, and hopefully this will be an opportunity to further improve sales to these territories (which have only just started recovering after the lockdowns). The impact of the cost increases to business, and retailers in particular, is yet to be felt - and it does seem like we may be treading on eggshells through the spring.

Katy Fletcher Head of Marketing and Product Development Ravensburger

Hall 5, Stand H25

What’s the big news on your stand?

As well as a raft of our proven bestsellers, we’re excited to be sharing more than 60 hot off the press new items for 2025. Our games offering is going from strength to strength, and we’re particularly looking forward to showing our new Level 8 card game range, and our everpopular mini memory series. They offer unrivalled play value at pocket-friendly price points that we know will appeal to shoppers.

Amy Lindsey Digital Operations

Alexander Thurlow Hall 3, Stand F20

What’s the big news on your stand?

Over the past year we’ve really tried to bring to life who we are as a company and how our jewellery can fit into our customers’ product ranges. We’ve done this by focusing on our core value: ‘inspired by nature’.

Our rebranding has also been key to the look and feel of our stand. We want everyone to know and love Alexander Thurlow; that it is the brand that our customers want to have in their shops - plus the product is truly desirable!

As well as all that, we will of course be showcasing our new larger and more colourful brooches, which are true statement pieces.

Spring Fair is celebrating its 75th anniversary - how long have you been going, and what changes have you noticed over the years? Any special memories you can share?

We’ve been showing at Spring Fair for the last 40 years, so we’ve seen a huge amount of change over the decades. One highlight was when jewellery was brought altogether, making it much easier for customers to locate what they were after.

One of our most memorable moments was about 25 years ago, when there was so much snow that unfortunately the show had to shut earlyand it took us six hours to drive from Birmingham to Croydon!

What are your hopes for your company in 2025?

We’d love to continue 2025 on the high of 2024. We built fantastic relationships with customers last year - working on bespoke pieces for some - and we really hope to keep that momentum going.

What are the biggest challenges and opportunities facing giftware suppliers right now?

The introduction of GPSR [General Product Safety Regulations] and what this means for our customers is a massive challenge, from understanding the requirements fully and being able to introduce changes, to helping our customers manage this new legislation.

In terms of opportunities, giftware suppliers (as with all businesses) which can make the most of new technologies to make the shopping experience better for customers will stand a fighting chance of being ahead of the curve. As well as creating innovative products that appeal to customers, of course!

Tim Hislop & Gill Stratton Co-founders

Floss & Rock Hall 5, Stand E10-F11

What’s the big news on your stand?

We will be launching 35 brand-new products across various categories and an amazing new illustration: ‘Ocean’. We have also been shortlisted for the Gift of The Year Awards 2025 with one of our new lines - Colour Switch Magic - which is so exciting!

Spring Fair is celebrating its 75th anniversary - how long have you been going?

We have been attending Spring Fair since 1999, originally with Think Pink, which was then rebranded to Floss & Rock. We had a short break at that time, but came back!

What are your hopes for your company in 2025?

We plan to stick to what we do best for 2025: focusing on developing more newness, and expanding our global customer reach both directly and indirectly through our distributor partners.

What are the biggest challenges and opportunities facing giftware suppliers right now?

The biggest challenges are the economy for sure, the cost-of-living, and the impact on business with the new taxes. We all face these challenges together.

The opportunities are to keep producing well-designed products at a good price, and expanding deeper within our product categories and into new ones.

Rachel Hare

Creative Director/Managing Director

Belly Button Designs Hall 4, Stand F31

What’s the big news on your stand?

The big news is that we are exhibiting for the first time as a giftware company! We have been exhibiting at Spring Fair as a greeting card company since 1994, when we first showed as part of The Prince’s Trust tent attached to the show.

We are also revealing a brand-new Signature Collection in gifting, which showcases our 30 years of design heritage.

Spring Fair is celebrating its 75th anniversary - how long have you been going, and what changes have you noticed over the years? Any special memories you can share?

I’ve noticed many changes, from a huge increase in the smaller more design-led companies, to a huge reduction in plastic at the show overall.

The increase in a more digital approach to buying (and then Covid) made some of us wonder whether the show was still as relevant. But I’d say that for us, launching a new business and promoting our existing card business, it feels more important than ever to remind customers of what we do.

Special memories would include being awarded a silver medal from Prince [now King] Charles at the time at our first show in 1994. Over the years, I have so many memories around the wonderful friendships I’ve built with distributors and customers. Spring Fair is a great start to the buying season for large and small customers alike. It brings people together - and face-to-face contact is so important.

What are your hopes for your company in 2025?

For all our new product launches to be well received, and for it to be the beginning of us being recognised as a substantial player in this industry. What are the biggest challenges facing giftware suppliers right now?

Challenges would be shipping uncertainty, which makes it tricky to sometimes predict delivery dates, and the continued struggle on the high street for retailers and the cost-of-living crisis. Small indies are so hardworking and, as we have two shops ourselves, I really appreciate how hard it is to maintain this side of the business.

Paul Hooker

Managing Director

Joe Davies

Hall 4, Stand C10-D11

What’s the big news on your stand?

We’ve been working harder than ever to launch some hugely innovative gift products, and will have over 2,500 lines making their debut. In addition, we’re very excited by new Equilibrium Dome Jewellery developments, including Chakra Trees.

The NEC will also see us launch a new brand into the UK for the first time: Gus Fink Studios. This exciting, playful, quirky, and hugely on-trend range of plush will be seen for the very first time at Spring Fair.

Spring Fair is celebrating its 75th anniversary - what changes have you noticed over the years? Any special memories you can share?

Perhaps the biggest change has been seeing the rise of China as the leading global manufacturer of giftware. This coincided with huge leaps in computing and technology that have changed business processes beyond all recognition. It really has been a revolution, and one that’s set to continue with AI (Artificial Intelligence).

One memory that is often recounted here is when everyone gathered around our first fax machine, and was totally blown away at receiving a document that didn’t come in the post! We all marvelled at how we thought that would change the world.

What are your hopes for your company in 2025?

Our biggest hope is always that we provide the best service possible, with plenty of stock available at great prices. In short, we are here for our customers, whenever they need us.

Gifts Today SHOP TALK

As we countdown to Spring Fair, retailers share their hopes and plans for their visits to the Birmingham trade show, from must-see stands to spotting new trends and themes

Anton Pearson

Garden Centre Manager

Pennells Garden Centre

Lincoln

Lincolnshire

What do you like about Spring Fair?

The pure range of products available to view, from cards and toys to candles and clothing. There’s a fantastic collection of categories to help inspire our product selection for 2025.

What products are you most looking forward to seeing?

As we move towards spring, Easter, Valentine’s Day, and Mothering Sunday play huge roles, and the selection in the Gift destination will be of great intrigue to us.

Which stands are on your must-see list?

We’ve had a fantastic year with Sunco Clothing, so we will be looking to extend our ranging with the Mudflower brand. And Langs and Widdop & Co. always have a great selection for finding that unique product which sets us apart when it comes to gift ranging.

What hidden gems have you found in the past?

We’ve found several - the most recent one to date is Hollie Tree Silver & Scents, which combines jewellery with fragrance and has created a real USP within our gifting area.

Anything else you are looking forward to doing/viewing at the show?

As a Gift of the Year judge, I will be taking great interest in the products looking to claim these Awards - and I will always be on the lookout for that new winning product we could miss out on!

Suzanne Chapman Owner

Much Love Gifting

Edinburgh

Scotland

What do you like about Spring Fair?

The thing I like most is the opportunity to catch up with so many suppliers, and also see what new products and trends there are. To have so many contacts in one place under one roof is invaluable. What products are you most looking forward to seeing?

I’m keen to see what new trends are coming through for 2025: in particular, if there are any new personalisation products, and gifting for pets which has been popular for us.

Which stands are on your must-see list?

I’m looking forward to seeing Ashleigh & Burwood as it always puts on such a fabulous stand display, as well as Widdop & Co. for gifting ideas, and Xystos Flame & Fragrance and Splosh for newness coming through for the season ahead.

Anything else you are looking forward to doing/viewing at the show?

The social aspect at the show is always good at Spring Fair. Whether it’s grabbing a coffee during the day, or heading into town at night, it’s always a good opportunity to catch up with suppliers old and new.

Kate Hawkins

Marketing Director, & Head of Gift, Christmas, & Clothing

Haddenham Garden Centre

Haddenham

Buckinghamshire

What do you like about Spring Fair?

It’s a great opportunity to see new products from our existing suppliers, and look for new suppliers. It also gives us inspiration for how to display products. It’s a great start to the year and shows us new trends and ideas.

What products are you most looking forward to seeing?

We’re looking to increase our gift and home department this year and also expand our range of toys. So I will be on the hunt for new products to add in these departments.

Which stands are on your must-see list?

Jellycat is the top selling line in our gift department, so it’s always exciting to see what’s new on its stand. We always visit Coach House and Sass & Belle to place Christmas orders. I also love a browse on the Bookspeed stand; this is another of our top performers.

What hidden gems have you found in the past?

I loved the Cath Kidston ranges from Captivate Brands. I saw these at the last Spring Fair and had to have them! The everyday and Christmas ranges have sold really well. One of my personal favourites which we found last year are Wee Bothies made by Glenshee Pottery in the heart of Scotland.  They are gorgeous little houses in all different colours, and each one is unique. I must admit I have three on the sideboard in my house!

Anything else you are looking forward to doing/viewing at the show?

Just feeling the buzz and excitement for the new year ahead, and catching up with people from the trade. It’s also a good way to increase my step count - it’s amazing the distance you can cover over a few days!

Andrea Trinkette

Owner Trinkette

Sowerby Bridge

West Yorkshire

What do you like about Spring Fair?

The size and variety - and for some suppliers, it’s their only UK show. The stands are large and set out well, and it’s inspiring to see how bigger items such as furniture are displayed. I don’t personally sell bigger items but it’s great to see trends, colour palettes and products. Also, I’ve really enjoyed listening to the interesting talks held over the years.

What products are you most looking forward to seeing?

I love trying to spot that new product that I’ve not sold before, or at least a new look or a different take on something. I’m so lucky that I have customers who have been coming to me since I opened 16 years ago, so that presents an exciting challenge of trying to get new items in consistently.

My customers are asking more often about where products are from - their ethical and sustainability background - which is great, as that’s been important at Trinkette from the beginning. Having listened to a talk recently about sustainability and legislation which is coming into force, it will be great to see more new products offered in this area.

Plus, I’ve noticed younger customers coming into the shop recently, so I’m going to look for products which have a younger funky appeal.

Which stands are on your must-visit list?

I visit all my suppliers to see what new items they’ve designed. I always smell the new fragrances, candles and diffusers that Stoneglow has to offer, along with the new scents and packaging on the Wild-Olive stand. And I check out the new designers section, with the creativity and products of the future.

What hidden gems have you found in the past?

I found the East of India range which has sold well for me consistently over at least 12 years. More recent finds are PoM and Living Nature.

Anything else you are keen to do or view at the show?

I really love seeing all the different stands, and how they are merchandised. I often come home and want to change my shop around! How amazing that there are so many creative products and lovely companies out there which take the time and effort to exhibit... It makes me feel proud to be part of this industry.

Sally Wilde

Owner Planet Sal Honiton Devon

What do you like about Spring Fair?

It’s actually my favourite show of the year! I love the buzz of all the new product launches and catching up with everyone, as we all look forward to a new trading year.

I also meet up with one of my long-term friends from my repping days and we book the same hotel. We have a good gossip and a bit of wine…

What products are you most looking forward to seeing?

I keep a large selection of categories in the shop, but I have to head straight for the jewellery hall. I love all the sparkle, and the displays are always so inspiring.

Then I go on to general gifts - I’m on the lookout for Mother’s Day and Father’s Day gifts. It’s especially exciting to find a good, new range of male gifting because it’s a tricky area to get right, I find. Dads who are not interested in sport, or are very techie, are the stumbling blocks, normally. I’ll be hunting for something that’s both fun and functional.

Which stands are on your must-see list?

So many! I usually have a list of 50 to get round before I start looking for new suppliers. Some at the top of my list are PoM, Kingsley Ryan, Lisa Angel, Funtime Gifts, Gift Republic, House of Disaster, Half Moon Bay, If Stationery, Bookspeed, and House of Marbles. They all have big spring launches, so there will be lots to see.

What hidden gems have you found in the past?

Sock Academy is dear to my heart, as it was the first company I ordered from at Spring Fair 2018 when I opened Planet Sal. The products are such good quality, the team listens to customers, and I still love the range just as much. Thames & Kosmos was a brilliant find too, along with Rainbow Designs.

Anything else you are looking forward to doing/viewing at the show?

I’m so happy to have been asked to be a judge of the Gift Of The Year Awards again, so I’m really looking forward to seeing all the wonderful entries for 2025.

Sarah Holmes

Shopkeeper

Pencil Me In & Seasgair Store

Elgin

Scotland

What do you like about Spring Fair?

I struggle with the size and location of this event, but it helps me source and meet some suppliers that just aren’t at other shows. What products are you most looking forward to seeing?

I mainly visit to source goods for our home & gift store Seasgair, ordering for S/S but also preordering Christmas, while observing what trends are coming through for A/W.

Which stands are on your must-visit list?

My Gifts Trade has a large stand and I always find new things which I love that sell really well. I pop by the Ohh Deer stand to see my pals and catch up. And Burstenhaus Redecker is a brilliant stand to visit and research all its brushes.

What hidden gems have you found in the past?

I met the wonderful Megan [Macdonald, director] of Sandwick Bay Candles in 2023. Her range sells brilliantly for us. In return, she stocks our pencils from Pencil Me In in her shop. Anything else you are looking forward to doing/viewing at the show?

Now that Seasgair is coming up to its two-year anniversary, I’ve got a better feeling of what I want to stock. So I need to write that list and pack my trainers to walk the halls and find new things!

Gifts Today SHOP TALK

Bill Nettelfield

Owner Bill & Bert’s Colchester Essex

What do you like about Spring Fair?

It’s great catching up with everyone after the mayhem that’s Christmas. It’s a few days to search out new products, catch up with existing suppliers, swap stories, and generally have some fun while looking forward to the year ahead.

What products are you most looking forward to seeing?

As with every trade show, we approach Spring Fair with a very open mind. I will be looking to see what’s new Christmas decorations-wise. I think it’s time for a change from gonks.

What hidden gems have you found in the past?

The small independent stands like Magma London (which has volcanic rock fragrance diffusers) are the sort of suppliers that make the shop interesting for Bill and Bert’s customers, so we will be walking every aisle to find the half-dozen hidden gems.

Anything else you are keen to do or view at the show?

We’re just looking forward to having a fun and rewarding time - and hoping that the level of inshow refreshments has improved.

Juliette Ramsey

Owner

Aurelie & Rose

Eastbourne East Sussex

What do you like about Spring Fair?

Seeing a variety of products under one roof, making new contacts, and catching up with old ones.

What products are you most looking forward to seeing?

I’m looking for new bags and purses in the accessories section but I’m always on the lookout for anything unusual or vintage-inspired.

Which stands are on your must-see list?

I don’t have a specific list. I haven’t managed to get to Spring Fair for a couple of years for various reasons, so I’m mainly on the lookout for new suppliers and ideas.

What hidden gems have you found in the past?

I’ve found some lovely vintage-inspired jewellery, and lots of retro cards!

Anything else you are looking forward to doing/viewing at the show?

Getting a feel for new trends and themes, as the exhibitors’ displays are always so imaginative.

Karen Ritchie

Owner

The Rowan Tree

Budleigh Salterton

Devon

What do you like about Spring Fair?

The excitement of finding new products, and seeing trends for the coming year. What products are you most looking forward to seeing?

New stationery and cards. Customers are always looking for new cards; they don’t want to send the same one twice!

Which stands are on your must-see list?

Hot Tomato, because I’m always looking for new jewellery and they never disappoint; JJ Textile for gorgeous throws; and Jellycat to make me smile.

What hidden gems have you found in the past?

Inis. I was walking past the stand, ignoring the girl who was trying to entice me on with a spray of cologne. For some reason I came back - and it’s now one of our top sellers!

Anything else you are looking forward to doing/viewing at the show?

Catching up with old friends and making plans for the future direction of the shop.

Jon May

Co-founder Mooch Gifts & Home

Stourport-on-Severn & Bewdley

Worcestershire

What do you like about Spring Fair?

For us, the location is key. It’s right on our doorstep, so it would be rude not to attend!

What products are you most looking forward to seeing?

We love to hunt out new products to keep our stores ahead of the competition. The show is also our first key buying opportunity for Christmas where we set our themes for our Christmas windows, so that’s very exciting for us.

Which stands are on your must-visit list?

We have a shortlist of suppliers we must visit at the show. These are Coach House (including the Christmas stand - a must!), Hot Tomato, Joe Davies, Candlelight, The Giftware Association (to see the Gift of the Year Awards entrants) and Shoeless Joe.

What hidden gems have you found in the past?

We’ve found a number of suppliers in the past, and some have become our core best sellers such as the naughty smellies from Go La La, and homeware from Candlelight. Anything else you are keen to do or view at the show?

We always look forward to our breakfast and lunch pit stops at The Cornish Bakery where we can sit and ‘digest’ what we’ve seen, tick off suppliers on our ‘must visit’ list, and double-check The Little Black Book.

Sarah Halsall

Founder

Hand Picked by Henrietta  Poynton Cheshire

What do you like about Spring Fair?

The variety of exhibitors which are all at one show.

What products are you most looking forward to seeing?

Christmas 2025 ranges - while the 2024 festive season is still fresh in my mind. Seeing things in the flesh just gives you the edge in making decisions.

And I love seeing new exhibitors: micro businesses that are showing for the first time. It’s important to me to bring in items that haven’t been seen everywhere, to make our offering different.

Which stands are on your must-see list?

As soon as I receive my copy of The Little Black Book, I’ll be making a list. My highlighter pen is at the ready!

Anything else you are looking forward to doing/ viewing at the show?

I enjoy catching up with familiar faces, hearing feedback from suppliers about what’s proving popular, and looking out for new trends. Plus, there’s a couple of items I’ve been asked for by customers that I need to source.

Retail’s next chapter

Andrew Goodacre , CEO of Bira (British Independent Retailers

Association) , reflects on a challenging 2024 and examines what lies ahead for independent retailers in 2025

Independent retailers have weathered one of their most testing years in recent memory.

Throughout 2024, our members have faced multiple headwinds, from changing consumer behaviour to persistent economic uncertainties that have fundamentally impacted trading conditions.

The challenges have been significant. Consumer spending on non-food items has declined markedly, while footfall problems and fragile consumer confidence have affected high streets nationwide. Despite inflation coming under control, the slow

In the spotlight

Bira members are being offered the chance to be featured on the association’s website in its Spotlight On… series (with those all-important backlinks to their own online platforms).

Spotlight On… articles are an opportunity for retailers to gain visibility, enhance their brand’s reputation, and connect with other members. They include a feature on Gifts Today’s diarist Cathy Frost, owner of Loveone gift shop in Ipswich.

She shares insights into her retail journey, the challenges she’s overcome, and the power of community engagement. Read all about Cathy and her business at https://bira. co.uk/resources/spotlight-on-loveone

To take part, members just need to fill out the online form, providing as many details as possible along with pictures, and send it in! Find more details at https://bira.co.uk/ Spotlight-callout

decline in interest rates has continued to impact both business and consumer spending.

Competition has intensified, with large chains implementing deeper and longer discount periods. The emergence of ultra-fast fashion retailers like Shein and Temu has created additional pressure on margins, while deflation on non-food items has further squeezed profits.

“The circular economy presents growing opportunities for independent retailers”

Perhaps most concerning has been the rise in retail crime. Our latest survey reveals that 78.79% of businesses report an increased frequency or severity of theft incidents. This isn’t just about lost stock - it represents a genuine threat to the wellbeing of our retailers and their staff.

The scale of the challenge is stark. Research from PwC [PricewaterhouseCoopers] shows 6,945 outlets closed in 2024 - equating to 38 store closures per day, up from 36 per day in 2023. While new store openings rose modestly to 4,661, averaging 25 openings daily, the net loss of high street presence remains concerning.

Looking ahead to 2025, new challenges emerge. Medium-sized retailers face significant increases in employment costs, while thousands of smaller retailers will be hit with higher business rates as relief drops from 75% to 40%. These aren’t just statisticsthey represent real pressures on real businesses.

However, I see genuine reasons for optimism. Wages are set to rise faster than inflation, which should boost consumer spending power. Both inflation and interest rates should continue to fall, helping to rebuild the consumer confidence that’s so vital for our sector.

The circular economy presents growing opportunities for independent retailers. As consumers become increasingly conscious of sustainability, our members’ ability to offer personal service and expert knowledge positions them perfectly to capitalise on this trend.

Independent retailers have always succeeded through adaptability and resilience. These qualities will be more important than ever in 2025. Those who can maintain their agility while staying true to their core values of personal service and community connection will find opportunities even in challenging conditions.

Call: 0800 028 0245

Visit: www.bira.co.uk