Gifts Today January 2022

Gifts Today Month: January 2022 Issue: 3 Volume: 33

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Tel: 01229 461100

Gifts Today January 2022

Contents

Regulars 5

Message from the Publisher

6

News

42 Exhibition News – Top Drawer

p 12

p 10

46 New Products

Retail 22 Trade Talk Gifts Today speaks to some of the industry’s finest to get their view on the candles category

28 Retailers’ Panel This month Gifts Today speaks to independent retailers on their thoughts on the year ahead.

Gifts Today team Publisher

Mark Horsnell markh@lemapublishing.co.uk

p 30

30 Retailer Profile Gifts Today had the pleasure to question &Quirky’s co-owner Paul Cheshire.

Layout/Design

Cover Story

Rick Vickers rick@lemapublishing.co.uk

10 Wax Lyrical

Managing Director

Wax Lyrical unveils their new collections,

Mark Naish mark@lemapublishing.co.uk

plus new fragrances and designs in fragranced candles, reed diffusers and

Production Director

nourishing hand care.

Paul Naish paul@lemapublishing.co.uk

Interviews

Chairman

Malcolm Naish malcolm@lemapublishing.co.uk

20 Bolsius

p 32

As a family business Bolsius have been crafting candles for more than 150 years.

Gifts Today questions their UK National Account Manager Kam Badesha to find out more.

38 Bloomingville Lema Publishing Ltd

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

www.giftstoday.media

Driven by a fascination of Nordic style and fashion, Bloominville has grown to become an international business covering many categories. Gifts Today questions their CEO Lars Krog.

Special Features p 44

12 Candles 22 Stationery & Cards 32 At Home 44 InStyle

T 01359 250720 Handmade in Suffolk

www.manorhousehomefragrance.co.uk

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

p 24

p 30

p 20

Message from the Publisher www.giftstoday.media Instagram: @giftstodaymedia

H

ere we are – 2022 and I would like to selections. With over 40 years crafting inspirational wish you all a very happy and prosperous fragrances, Wax Lyrical proudly unveils their latest New Year. As it stands, apologies for collections, styles and inspired additions for spring using the ‘c’ word, Covid is still causing havoc and summer 2022. Within this you will find brand and uncertainty. As we headed out of lockdown new collections, plus new fragrances and designs in last year with restrictions having been removed fragranced candles, reed diffusers and nourishing in England, it did for a short while feel as though hand care. Simply turn to page 10 to read more. it was time to celebrate, then bam, along comes You will also find a number of interviews Omicron! in this issue, for example, Gifts Today had the This variant may on the surface be a much pleasure to question Bolsius’s UK National milder version when looking at symptoms, it Account Manager Kam Badesha. Bolsius is causing a lot of problems for us all – are we have more than 150 years of knowledge and likely to lockdown again, will this sneaky and craftsmanship manufacturing candles and are fast spreading variant cause the gifting industry currently one of the market leaders in Europe. further problems – let’s hope not.

You can check out this interview starting on With the booster vaccination programme well page 20. underway, with a record We also had breaking 904,598 booster the opportunity With over 40 years crafting shots given in one day to interview inspirational fragrances, Wax (18/01/21) – with this Bloomingville’s CEO Lyrical proudly unveils their news let’s hope the Lars Krog. Driven latest collections, styles and virus will slow in pace by a fascination of and here’s to looking Nordic style and inspired additions for spring forward to a much more fashion, Bloominville and summer 2022. prosperous year ahead has grown to become for us all. an international There is clearly a desire for trade shows to get business covering many categories. You can find back on track and as testament to this Top Drawer this interview starting over on page 38. have announced that although the show has now On the retail side, here in Gifts Today’s been scheduled for February it has doubled in hometown, it’s all about the ‘quirky’ as we chat size compared with its autumn version, with show with independent retailer co-owner Paul Cheshire Director Russell Rule stating, “With the show from &Quirky. This interesting gift store looks for dominating the whole of Olympia London, buyers ideas in store that offer that something different – will have access to more than 650 brands and if you’re feeling ‘quirky’ then turn to page 30! thousands of the newest products on the market, at Of course, you will also find features nestling one safe and carefully designed event.” Registration within the following pages with candles starting on to attend Top Drawer is now open, simply head to page 12 which also contains Trade Talk where we www.topdrawer.co.uk speak to a number of the industry’s finest to find Spring Fair, having been unable to open their out their thoughts on this growing sector. You will doors in 2021, many are now eager to attend this find Stationery & Cards by turning to page 24, mammoth trade event in February – watch out At Home over on page 32 and InStyle starting on for our February issue when we will bring you a page 44. full round up of the show!

This issue you will have noticed that our Cover Star is Wax Lyrical. As a business, they are constantly looking at their ranges and gifting The views of the contributors expressed in this journal are not necessarily those of the publisher. Comments, letters and criticism are welcome.

‘

‘

p 32

Publisher, Mark Horsnell

p 38

News

Top Drawer delayed till February 20th Due to the increase of Omicron cases the organisers of Top Drawer have decided to delay the show from the 16th– 18th January to the 20th – 22nd February, so the good news is the exhibition is still running just a little later.

Following the significant increase of Omicron Covid-19 Variant cases within London and across the UK, Top Drawer has taken the decision to postpone Top Drawer Spring. The event will now take place 20-22 February 2022.

Show Director, Russell Rule comments: “We are committed to bringing you Top Drawer S/S22 in a safe environment that you can feel comfortable attending for your yearly buying needs. With this in mind we feel it’s the right decision to postpone to a later date in the same buying season.

We will always work in the best interests of our exhibitors, visitors, contractors and staff and we believe a safe and successful event can be run in late February 2022. I’d like to extend a huge thank you to the industry for its patience, understanding and support in these challenging times.”

www.topdrawer.co.uk

Layers of nostalgia

Elegant, minimalist, chic are descriptors for this simple yet exquisite range of Reed Diffusers and Refills.

Available in 10 fragrances this range is inspired by the founders of Mr&Mrs Fragrances’ love of travel and each fragrance captures a place that has captured their hearts and minds.

Each fragrance has been recreated in detail to build layers of nostalgia that transport you to these destinations and entice travelers to discover these wonderful locations.

Ten fragrances available in a 250ml Diffuser RRP £30.00 with synthetic white reeds and a 250ml Refill RRP £15.00. Fragrances include Limoni di Amalfi, Malaysian Black Tea, Zanzibar Amber, Maldivian Breeze and Jasmine of Ibiza.

Each installation is supported with Point of Sale and free display testers.

Available from Broughton & Beech Ltd the UK & Ireland distributor

Tel: 01270 335034 sales@broughtonandbeech.co.uk www.mrandmrsfragrance.co.uk

10Gifts 6 GiftsToday Today

Beautiful by design Museums & Galleries Ltd’s historic quest is to find the best, most commercially attractive designs from museums, galleries, designers and artists around the world, and present them on beautifully made high quality products with sustainability a key factor in design, production, and marketing.

M&G’s premium organic cotton printed tote bags and coordinating large zipped pouch bags are an example of this holistic approach. The products feature vibrant designs from the V&A, British Museum, Tate, and Natural History Museum and make attractive gifts or self-purchases.

M&G is committed to an ongoing, progressive businesswide effort to more sustainable product development and reducing M&G’s environmental impact. M&G is a SEDEX registered company (SEDEX is committed to more sustainable and ethical global supply chains). M&G HQ in Corby receives gas and electricity from a green supplier.

M&G recycles existing packaging and old products as packing material for deliveries (they do not buy in packing material).

The company has also switched to bio-tape to replace plastic tape for all packaging. Recycling takes place across the business in the offices, warehouse and design studio.

With this ethos as inspiration, all of M&G’s textile products are GOTS certified organic cotton.

Tel: 01373 462165 sales@mgml.co.uk www.museumsgalleries.co.uk

Visit us at Top Drawer to see the popular Equilibrium Jewellery wellery Collection!

OLYMPIA LONDON O - STAND ON S 283

20TH - 22ND FEBRUARY 2022

Equilibrium® Fashion Jewellery

Equilibrium® Gemstones

Equilibrium® Elegant Pastel

Equilibrium® Sentiment Jewellery

Tel: 0161 975 6300 *LIWV 7RGD\ (4 )3 LQGG

Email: sales@joedavies.co.uk

www.joedavies.co.uk

News

Giving & Living re-connecting buyers with suppliers in January Giving & Living takes place from Sunday 16th – Tuesday 18th January, at Westpoint, Exeter and is the best place to come and order your coast and tourism gifts. Hale Events, the show’s organisers, say the event has been redesigned to take on board the “new normal” – including putting comfort features in place and re-focusing the show to reflect buying needs.

“2021 was a strong year for ‘staycations’ in the UK,” says Hale Events’ MD Mike Anderson. “All the signs for 2022 are that this trend will continue, with the public taking record numbers of family holidays in the peak weeks as well as short breaks and day trips throughout the year. There’s been a change to the visitors who come to this region, and the show will offer some amazing products to reflect this. We’ve got more British makers than ever, offering handmade high quality gifts. We’ve got all the seaside supplies you’ll need, and we’ve got some great home products too.”

Tel: 01934 733433 www.givingliving.co.uk

Spring Fair

wins Trade Show of Century award Spring Fair was presented with the prestigious Trade Show of the Century Award at The AEO (Association of Event Organisers) Centenary Party & Awards on 10 December in Birmingham.

Julie Driscoll, divisional managing director for retail, engineering and manufacturing, Hyve Group plc said: “I’m so delighted that Spring Fair has won the prestigious Trade Show of the Century Award at the AEO Centenary Party & Awards. Spring & Autumn Fair from Hyve Group plc is absolutely delighted to receive this industry recognition and I’d like to thank everyone who currently works on Spring Fair and everyone who has ever contributed to the show. This award goes to all employees and suppliers who have helped keep this brilliant exhibition delivering for its customers over the past 75 years.”

Since its launch in 1950, Spring Fair has been the definitive ‘shop for shops’.

It was the first show to take place in the NEC Birmingham, which was officially opened by HM The Queen in February 1976.

The next show takes place from 6-9 February 2022 at NEC Birmingham, welcoming tens of thousands of UK and international based retailers and buyers. Spring Fair showcases the newest products on the market and curates an event where inspiration, creativity and insights are always on tap. The show is now designed around four key buying destinations – Home, Gift, Moda Fashion and Design & Source, offering an experience that guides product discovery and buying.

The Association of Event Organisers Ltd (AEO) is the trade body representing companies that conceive, create, develop or manage trade and consumer events. The AEO Centenary Party & Awards saw attendees flock to the Vox in Birmingham to celebrate and recognise the best in the industry.

For further information head to www.springfair.com

Love Country is looking for sales agents to join our exciting growing brand.

We are looking for friendly, professional and performance driven individuals who are well connected with retail buyers to introduce our product ranges. Applicants must be very customer focused to look after our existing stockists and develop new relationships.

We offer a wide range of high quality British Made products in our popular country style designs.

New products and designs are developed regularly A list of current customers, sale support, catalogue and samples will be provided.

If you would like to join us at this exciting time of expansion, please email sarah@lovecountryuk.co.uk We have two territories available, East Anglia and Home Counties, covering these postcodes: PE, CB, MK, SG, LU, HP, AL, OX, LONDON NR, IP, CO, CM, SS www.lovecountrybysarahreilly.co.uk

8 Gifts Today

Sales Agents Required for Leading Clock Company Focused and high-energy agents are required for South East and South West regions of England.

Since 1928, Acctim has been the UK’s leading designer and brand of clocks. With an international attitude and a passion for making beautiful products, the aim is to inspire our customers with British designed timepieces for every room.

Our portfolio includes classic, retro, vintage and modern styles for wall, mantel and alarm clocks, and our philosophy is to always produce great quality clocks at great value. Our reputation and success is built upon aesthetics, quality, and our exceptional customer service.

We are seeking well-connected and highly passionate sales agents to service our existing customers and reach new customers. From our head office in Milton Keynes, we offer all market support and a competitive commission.

For further details or to apply for this role, please email laurence@acctim.com or call 01908 449205.

2022 COLLECTION OUT NOW Our latest and most inspiring catalogue to date has just unfurled its wings. Please contact your local agent, register online or call our sales team to order yours.

E: sales@mgml.co.uk museumsgalleries.co.uk Tel: 01373 462165

Home of the finest arts brands *LIWVB7RGD\B)3DJHB-DQB LQGG

GT COVER STORY: Wax Lyrical

Your Next

Best-Sellers Wax Lyrical has unveiled brand new collections, plus new fragrances and designs in fragranced candles, reed diffusers and nourishing hand care.

W

ith over 40 years crafting inspirational fragrances, Wax Lyrical has proudly unveiled its latest collections, styles and inspired additions for spring and summer 2022. When you choose Wax Lyrical, you choose a blend of design, craft, heritage and values, reflecting its English Lake District roots.

At the heart of the brand new JustBe Botanicals is the desire to restore emotional balance and enhance a sense of wellbeing.

Developed by Scottish Aromatherapist Gail Bryden to encourage others to simply ‘Just Be’ themselves, JustBe Botanicals and Wax Lyrical have developed a range of aromatherapy home fragrance and hand care products to illuminate wellness and self-care markets. All fragrances are 100% natural and contain 100% essential oils from Gail’s signature aromatherapy blends.

Every blend and fragrance has been consciously developed to target positive moods and emotions, using the power of aromatherapy to help you reconnect with your feelings. Select your positive intention and scent your space with the seven new fragrances to help you feel happy, energised,

10 Gifts Today

reassured, relaxed, balanced, inspired and rested.

Feel consciously alive and enjoy candles made from a new coconut wax blend which is renewable and sustainable. The fragranced natural formulation hand wash and hand lotion are made with 100% essential oils including coconut oil.

The High Density Polyethylene hand care bottle is a PCR (Post Consumer Resin) i.e. recycled from other plastic bottles. Combined with the mono-material (PE) future pump it means the whole vessel can be recycled. Also committing to plastic reduction, the Ellen Studio London collection has been launched, inspiring individuality and fun.

Following from the success of Yvonne Ellen as a brand,Yvonne has created Ellen Studio London, featuring bold prints, quirky slogans and Yvonne’s signature animal illustrations. Due to attract yet more headlines, the collection is launching with four modern fragrances in candles, diffusers, Giftscents and hand care with more to follow in autumn/winter.

Completing the trio of brand new collections, Portmeirion Botanic Garden promises to make

every day magical. For 50 years, Botanic Garden has been a serene and comforting presence amidst the increasing busyness of everyday lives. As the world races around us, the most recognised collection in British ceramics is still holding the fort at the centre of home and family life - a secret garden in which to enjoy the good times.

New for 2022, Wax Lyrical is contributing with our 40 years of fragrance experience to create a range of beautiful escapism, featuring lovingly crafted candles, reed diffusers and hand care to transport you to your happy place. What better way to celebrate than with British made blends, fragrances and vessels.

Existing best-selling collections will also have exciting new products to enthuse about.

Adding to a very popular collection, a new fragrance has been created across the Fired Earth range, introducing Silver Needle Tea. 2022 also sees a new product in the shape of the Fired Earth range of fragrances in essential oils which can be used in USB diffusers, in an

oil burner or to refresh potpourri. Also coming down the line at the North of England factory is the highly anticipated hand care range which is formulated with Argan Oil and Green Tea Extracts to cleanse, moisturise and heal hands.

Adding to one of its core own brand collections, Wax Lyrical has created two new fragrances, with Aromatic Sandalwood and Fresh Eucalyptus available in a range of candles and diffusers. Fragranced hand care products are already successfully on shelves, ready to hydrate, moisturise, care and protect hard working hands and this year Wax Lyrical is launching a trio gift set in four of the best-selling fragrances (Sea Breeze, English Lavender, Mediterranean Orange and Exotic Fig).

Showing nature at its most adorable, the Wrendale collection will boast new designs, new fragrance and new hand care range. Expanding the existing hedgerow, woodland and meadow home fragrances collection, welcome to hydrating hand wash containing evening primrose oil and moisturising hand lotion with evening primrose oil and shea butter to deeply nourish and heal hands. Developed and made in the UK, the tin bottles are also available as a duo gift box. The new “celebration” is a sparkling peach and vanilla fragrance in 6 new occasion candles, 6 new occasion reed diffusers and 8 new Giftscents diffusers, with lots of Hannah Dale designs lovingly recreated in home fragrance.

Many of the Wax Lyrical collections compliment tableware from parent company Portmeirion, such as Wrendale, Sophie Conran and of course Botanic Garden designs. Decorating homes; delivering total fragrance; protecting hands: Desirable, giftable and collectible but also made in England and environmentally conscious, Wax Lyrical continues to mix traditional values and contemporary designs. New choices for a year, wrapped in reliable, quality products.

JustBe Botanicals and Wax Lyrical have developed a range of aromatherapy home fragrance and hand care products to illuminate wellness and self-care markets. All fragrances are 100% natural and contain 100% essential oils from Gail’s signature aromatherapy blends.

Tel: 01229 461100 www.waxlyricaltrade.com Gifts Today 15

Product Focus

Pexels.com

Candles

Flicker of

hope

Candles have always proven popular as a gifting solution, but what makes them a perfect gift and why are we continually seeing a growth in this category. Gifts Today spoke to those in the know to find out more.

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andles aren’t a new entity, but their popularity over the years have certainly grown. We asked Wax Lyrical’s Chief Executive Jacqui Gale for her thoughts on why this might be and what makes these so popular as a gift. “Candles are the ultimate feel-good accessory. Wax Lyrical designs look good even when not lit but the simple act of lighting a candle creates instant relaxation.” With it not only being the aesthetic of the candle itself, scent also plays a part with Jacqui also commenting: “Fragrance is the most sensitive of senses, it impacts our mood and taps immediately into our nostalgia and memories. The natural fragrances Wax Lyrical blends through all the wax, means you can replicate that time and again. Not only does a room look beautiful and smell fabulous, a fragranced candle helps our whole sense of well-being.”

Isle of Skye Candle Co’s Founder James Robertson feels lifestyle plays an important factor commenting: “Candles are just a beautiful accent add to your home, adding warm light, pop of colour and your favourite scent. Many people form close associations between scents and memories, so the experience can also become quite nostalgic. So as quite a small affordable luxury, a candle can actually be very thoughtful and quite powerful.”

With candles now available in a variety of styles, what attributes do these need to make a great gift?

We asked Best Kept Secret’s Managing Director Vanessa Curry for her opinion. “Candles need to look aesthetically pleasing, they need to entice the customer through attractive eye-catching packaging – even before the customer has smelt them.” Vanessa also feels fragrance plays a pivotal role adding “Of course, fragrance is so important.

Not everyone has the same taste in food and the same goes for fragrance – having a large portfolio of candle fragrances allows us to hit all tastes. Good scented candles should have a cold throw and of course a hot throw. Not much point in burning a scented candle that doesn’t fragrance the room. Best Kept Secrets loves sparkle. All our Seriously Scented candles are eye catching and 12 Gifts Today

a bit different to plain white wax candles. We are all about colour, sparkly toppings and really good fragrances – sounds a bit corny but we mean it when we say we make Seriously Scented candles at sensible prices.”

Independent retailer, Bryony Fletcher (Yarnton Home and Garden’s Marketing & Buying Manager) says their customers look at scent and packaging telling us: “For our customers a candle must smell divine, but it must also look the part with luxury packaging. Natural ingredients are important as well.

I look for a candle that sits well in its votive. I also look for anything unique – a wooden wick, a locally poured candle for instance.”

Gifts Today also asked Ashleigh & Burwood’s Managing Director Andrew Nettledon if he felt consumers were aware of burn time and sooting when looking at candles. “A portion of candle shoppers are fairly educated about what makes for a good candle burning experience and they will weigh up the information to hand on burn times, and wax blend to help them make a good choice.”

Said Andrew. “When little attention is paid to these aspects and purchasing decisions are driven by looks or price alone, unfortunately some consumers will be left disappointed by their purchase and the resulting candle performance.”

On a final note, what about the growth in this product category – can we expect this growth to continue? “Home fragrance continues to grow, be that candles, reed diffusers or essential oils.

Fragrance is a personal choice but they also make wonderful presents and many fragrances are instantly recognisable for their properties, such as calming or revitalising. Growth is also coming with vessels which can be reused and an appreciation of buying products made in the UK.” Commented Jacqui, with James adding “Absolutely! We see growth in our business but also with our competitors. It’s definitely a positive thing too. We see an increase in the costumers’ interest not just in the final products but in the ingredients, manufacture process, company ethos and really what the brand stands for.”

Bryony Fletcher Marketing & Buying Manager, Yarnton Home & Garden Are you experiencing a growth demand in this sector?

Candles have always been popular, but certainly we have seen an uptake in sales, especially during the winter months.

With sustainability a hot topic, do you feel that consumers are looking closely at the type of wax used?

Yes, I do think the more natural the wax the more appealing they are to the consumer. Some customers will proactively look for a natural candle, others are just delighted when they find out it is made with natural ingredients.

What about the container – does this also resonate through to glass or tins, for example from recycled materials?

The candle market is a very flooded market so producers are having to create impact via their containers. The Cotswold Candle Company & Brownstone London for example do a white votive, whereas brown was the trend for a while. Companies are making votives more attractive so they can be reused once the candle has burnt. We have seen this with candles from Paddy Wax.

Do you feel that your customers are also looking at burn times and sooting when selecting a candle?

We make sure our staff are aware of burn times because we do get asked this quite often. I would not say it’s on top of all customers minds, however some people do like to know this.

How do you keep abreast of trending fragrances?

Good question, I think social media, magazines and talking to customers all helps. We definitely see some seasonal favourites that come through.

Finally, do you feel that influencers and social media help drive this category forward?

Yes, most definitely, they are used in video and images across social media. They have become aligned with wellness and selfcare.

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Product Focus Candles

Highly fragranced

New for SS22, and building on the successful collection launch last year, Ashleigh & Burwood are adding three new fragrance options to their Life In Bloom Scented Jar Candles.

The new season sees scents of Lotus Flower & Watermelon, Wisteria & White Woods and Orange Blossom & Mandarin teamed with vibrantly coloured glass cube vessels in feel-good shades.

The shocking pink, sky blue and zesty orange colourways, bring a splash of sunny energy to the home.

These candles are made with a highly-fragranced soy wax blend for a powerful scent release, with a burn time of up to 38 hours.

Tel: 01932 267060 COT@ashleigh-burwood.co.uk

Natures

garden

At St. Eval they strive to tread lightly on the Earth; respecting, renewing, recycling.

This special collection celebrates St Eval’s close relationship with nature and the wildflower haven they have created on their farm.

In their desire to raise awareness of the protection of bees, butterflies, and dragonflies they’ve crafted three pretty terracotta pots, each finished with intricate insect carvings honoring these remarkable creatures.

Paired with three fragrances, these stunning pots evoke the joy of nature in summertime. Discover Geranium in their new Bee pots, new Sweet Pea in the Butterfly pots and new Garden Greens in their Dragonfly pots.

www.st-eval.com

The home of

scent

The smart and stylish look of Manor House’s re-branded packaging covers their widest collection of home fragrance items yet. Their extended offering of 28 home fragrance collections has had some new additions throughout the year, offering great choice for consumers.

The company pride themselves on producing all their products by hand in Suffolk and all of the fragrance collections include their signature Pot Pourri, Scented Botanical Candles, Gift Boxed Candles, Diffusers and Room Sprays along with Drawer Sachets, Liners and more.

Manor House have relaunched a new collection of Luxury Hand Wash and Moisturising Lotions to complement each of their 28 fragrance collections. All products use mainly British packaging and fragrances, the finest botanicals from around the world, recyclable packaging, fabrics, hand woven silks from Suffolk silk mills and ribbons mainly from British companies thus creating a true Handmade in Great Britain Home Fragrance Collection.

Call: 01359 250720 | 14 Gifts Today

Visit: manorhousehomefragrance.co.uk

Nature’s Garden Collection Inspired by our love of nature and desire to protect the natural world around us, this special collection pays tribute to bees, butterflies, and dragonflies and is home to three aromatic garden delights.

See us at Top Drawer, stand I61.

Bee | Geranium Dragonfly | Garden Greens Butterfly | Sweet Pea

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01841 540850 info@st-eval.com www.st-eval.com

Product Focus

Saying it with

Candles

fragrance

Christmas fragrance in a diffuser and candle.

With red cinnamon, white moss and snowdrop, pine and eucalyptus fragrances presented in white, silver, red and gold glassware. Each item is beautifully packaged.

Diamante diffusers – Bling will always be popular, with these available in silver and rose gold in colour ready for Christmas.

Diffusers come in 100ml, 200ml, 500ml diffuser with quality perfumes and reeds some available in gift set of 3 diffusers, with candle and diffuser gift sets as well.

The candle range of Desire come in a glass jar with lids and tassel, various fragrances, and colours red, green, gold and white.

Showing at Harrogate in January and February Spring Fair in Hall 5 stand D10-E11 and D20-E21.

Tel 07831 632537 sales@leonardo.co.uk

Sense of

well being

The Hibiscus & White Tea fragrance is calming and relaxing.

Made with a blend of woody citrus notes of White Tea with gentle florals including Hibiscus, Freesia and Jasmine to create this gentle aroma with feelgood benefits. Inspired by those floral fragrances found in Nature, this relaxing fragrance delivers some serious feel-good benefits in the home. And careful consideration has been taken to use planet friendly, recycled and recyclable containers and packaging. What we borrow from Nature, we give back with great care.

Light up the

www.heylandandwhittle.co.uk

Recycle again

and again Candle Diffuser with additional benefits.

The chunky candle vessels, made from recycled glass, are really attractive and are designed to be re-purposed or upcycled again and again – as drinks glasses, hot beverage glasses, biscuit and snack bowls. Alternatively these can be recycled with the household recycling programme. The candles themselves are beautifully packaged in FSC certified card which is itself 100% recyclable.

www.heylandandwhittle.co.uk 16 Gifts Today

eco way Heyland & Whittle are

well known for creating beautiful natural products the traditional way and the new Eco collection candles are no exception.

This popular Eco-Collection of six beautifully fragrant, hand poured and blended candles are the Eco-friendly, sustainable way to fragrance the home. 100% natural, the candles are made with sustainable soy wax for a clean, slow, even burn for 45 hours plus. Also the candles are Palm Free which ticks all the boxes for those customers looking for consciencefree shopping. Good for the planet and the home.

www.heylandandwhittle.co.uk

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Feature: Isle of Skye Candle Co.

Isle of Skye Candle Co.

- it just makes scents I

Natural, sustainable home fragrance

nspired by and coming from the picturesque Scottish Highlands, this business has established a firm place on the home fragrance market in the UK and internationally.

The Isle of Skye Candle Co. may be younger than some of their competitors, but thanks to their unique range of scents, sustainable ingredients, striking product design and unparalleled customer service, they have become the largest natural candle manufacturer in Scotland in just 15 years.

From the very beginning, Isle of Skye Candle Co. have placed a strong emphasis on the sustainability of the materials used to create their product ranges. All candles are made using natural soya wax. The founder, James Robertson started his journey of mixing scents in a local soap shop, where he also identified a gap in the Scottish market for environmentally conscious scented candles. Passionate about the Isle of Skye and determined to create opportunities for young people to work and stay on the island, he created the company that Skye Candles is today.

These strong pillars are what truly sets the company apart. Every single product is handcrafted in their workshop in Broadford, adding the human touch and quality that cannot be

18 Gifts Today

matched by machine manufactured products.

Even though the process is more labour intensive, the company is dedicated to stay true to their name.

From the very beginning, Isle of Skye Candle Co. have placed a strong emphasis on the sustainability of the materials used to create their product ranges. All candles are made using natural soya wax.

“It took many years of research and development with different natural waxes and oil variations before I got to the point where I knew I had something special that people would love.

To this day we use the same mixes in our candles and even though we have expanded significantly since 2006, our company ethos and mission has remained the same; to create great products using the best quality natural products whilst creating good employment on our Island,” said James.

The striking views of the Hebrides creates the inspiration the company’s scent combinations and product offering. This is particularly the case with their Scottish Collection. Scents such as Highland Gorse or Machair Flowers, so authentically Scottish, are popular with locals, visitors and international consumers who love the myth and romanticism associated with Skye.

Thanks to the use of soya wax, the candles burn cleaner and longer than products made

of other alternatives. Soya wax burns at a lower temperature than paraffin wax, which is beneficial for both the scent release and the burn time of the candles. The minimum burn time of even the smallest candles in the range exceeds 20 hours.

This is approximately twice as long as a paraffin candle the same size would burn for, creating a better value for money for the customer.

The product range on offer consists of 28 scents divided into two main collections, each available in various candle sizes and also as a reed diffuser.

The uniqueness and identity of the product range is captured in the stunning packaging designs. The products look chic and contemporary, yet they reflect the Scottish heritage and the elegance of a high-quality product. Created by the talented local designer in-house, the packaging is also completely free of single use plastic, reinforcing the green ethos of the business even further.

The combination of these points is the driving force behind the company’s success.

With exceptional customer and client loyalty, the Isle of Skye Candle Co. continues to grow, not only within the UK but internationally too, with exciting plans ahead of them in 2022, both for their products and the business as a whole.

enquiries@skyecandles.co.uk www.skyecandles.co.uk

NEWCOLLECT IONS Inspired by the textures, fragrances and colours of Santorini, al fresco dining and the colours of the French Riviera, and organic ceramic details that capture the Earth’s natural elements.

Beautiful, unique home fragrance vessels, designed to be repurposed in the home and cherished forever.

We look forward to meeting you all soon at Top Drawer, Spring Fair and Maison&Objet.

Scan the QR code to visit our B2B site and download our Spring/Summer 2022 catalogues. +44 (0)1225 9312322 | SALES.UK@DW-COLLECTIVE.COM | WWW.DESIGNWORKSCOLLECTIVE.CO.UK

Feature: Bolsius

Valuable growth Home Ambience

with Bolsius Bolsius boosts this growth with new candle products that increase the cozy atmosphere in the home. Gifts Today had the pleasure to question their UK National Account Manager Kam Badesha to find out more.

As a family business Bolsius have been crafting candles for more than 150 years, how have you driven the business to be the global success it is today?

The Bolsius brothers laid the foundations of the current company back in 1870 when Bolsius was founded. They processed beeswax into candles according to traditional methods. We are very proud of our heritage and the foundations laid from our origins enabling Bolsius to become a global player selling in more than 50 countries.

We have been involved in various take-overs and have been successful in the setting up of a large-scale production in Eastern Europe with the capacity of having our own storage to house heated raw materials. This is unique in our business.

Our aim has always been to make the very best candles. This aim remains unchanged, we are very proud to be able to say Bolsius is still familyowned today. With 150 years of knowledge and craftsmanship, continuously testing the best 20 Gifts Today

recipes and using the best raw materials we can guarantee quality in our products.

As the market leader in Europe, we also feel a responsibility to offer our consumers a more sustainable alternative. We use natural extracts for our fragrances and are in the process of transitioning our portfolio of products to use natural vegan wax, no palm oil and as little plastic as possible, along with continuous innovation and attention to quality. That is the thread that has brought Bolsius to its current global success.

As a heritage brand, you have seen many changes and developments with regards to production methods – what do you feel has been the largest change for you?

We are very proud that Bolsius invented the pressed tea light in 1927. This is a unique moment in our history and is still one of the most popular candle products used in homes today across the world.

Our small traditional family business has evolved into a multinational company, not only

producing tealights on mass but a huge portfolio of candle products.

How do you operate the logistics of your business?

In Jan 2020 we announced our partnership with APAC. APAC handle all of our UK Retail distribution in the UK. Along with a dedicated sales team we now have a stock holding in the UK allowing our customers to order little and often (£300 MOQ), with smaller lead times. A perfect solution for our UK customers.

Did you experience any particular problems during the pandemic and if so, how did you manage these?

Whilst we are all having to weather the storm of the pandemic one of the key effects has been the focus on the Home. Our homes for so many have become our children’s schools, our offices as well as our living and entertaining spaces.

There have been lots of insights that focus on the role of the home and therefore The Home

Ambiance category has had a huge boost this past year. The definition of the Home Ambiance category is: products that create atmosphere and make you feel good in your home by stimulating your scenses. (candles, scented candles and reed diffusers). Due to the pandemic consumers pay more attention to a cosy and warm atmosphere in their homes. We have never been at home this much. Home is our happy safe place where our wellbeing is key.

Candles contribute highly to this, whether it is creating a perfect ambience for entertaining, or focussing on mental well-being through meditation or self-care and relaxation. We also see further possibilities to convert new shoppers into the category by increasing usage moments, together with the support from our retailers. We have launched a complete new colour pallet in our Rustic Collection which follows trends in fashion and interiors to complement your Home Interiors areas. We are really proud that our Rustics contain Vegetal Wax an no Palm oil offering our consumers both Style and Substance. To compliment this collection we have added more premium lines with shimmer and silhouettes printed candles and these are a fantastic addition to our retailers home interiors areas.

Together with retailers we want to maximise the potential of the Home Ambiance category, and feel this is the perfect moment to tap into this opportunity. Logistically it has been a difficult year. However, as a result of our partnership with APAC, we have managed to ride the storm of both the pandemic and other influencing factors like Brexit. We managed to deliver all our stock before the Brexit deadline to APAC and therefore didn’t have the added customs complications impacting our deliveries early last year.

The candle industry has had a turbulent year with massive shortages in Raw materials as a result of the Pandemic. As one of the key players we have managed to secure and source raw materials and have delivered to APAC in plenty of time for Peak Season ensuring our customers are stocked up.

Are we continuing to see a growth in demand for candles and scented products?

What do you feel is driving this growth?

We have conducted different researches to gain insights in the usage of our category and the behavior of the shopper. From this we learned, for example, that inspiration is very important in the buying process of rustic candles and that they are

often purchased in stores who have a strong home interiors collection. We have found that our Rustic collection fits perfectly with home accessories and this is where we see the most success.

Getting consumers to use candles more often in their homes to compliment accent colours in home interiors and create the perfect ambience.

The Garden Centre and Department Store is the perfect fit for us to concentrate on this.

How often do you refresh your range?

We are committed to updating our range and are influenced by both trends in home ambience and our customer’s feedback. We have rustic candle collections for both Spring/Summer and the Winter to compliment the homes of our customers always with both style and substance in mind.

How important is sustainability to the business and why?

Sustainability is a very import driver in this category and for our business. All our Rustic products are made with vegan wax and are palm oil-free. As a business we are constantly trying to improve our products and processes in a more sustainable way. Next to sustainability the mark of the high quality Bolsius candle is its long burning time and its ability to maintain its shape while burning.

What type of support do you give your retailers?

We really would like to use our developed category vision to engage long-term relationships based on insights and trends in our market.

We believe in a tight cooperation and have an extensive toolkit to create impactful displays.

As an experienced partner and market leader we understand how to grow this category, convert shopper behavior and inspire our customers. We have a dedicated sales team at APAC and account managers who are trained by us on our products. We see them as an extension of the Bolsius team.

The essence of our company is built on the foundation of being a family business that in the UK is represented by Kam Badesha. Our team communicates directly with our retailers and can guide in choosing the right collection for your store, sharing all the product information you need. We can also help with POS, planograms and merchandising should it be needed.

This is the way we would like to grow the candle segment, literally and figuratively in a sustainable way!

Contact details: Bolsius: Kam Badesha / kam.badesha@uk.bolsius.com / Phone: 07391017288 APAC : sales@apacgroup.com /Phone: 0116 2302555

Trade talk

This month Gifts Today questions some of the industry’s finest on their thoughts on the candle sector.

James Robertson

Company Founder, Isle of Sky Candle Co What attributes do you feel a candle should have to make a great gift?

Great quality should always be a priority. If you’re adding an element to someone’s home, asking them to burn something in the air they will be breathing for hours, you want to be sure it really is the best it can be. We, as a company, pride ourselves on delivering this. The other aspect is a beautiful, thoughtfully selected scent. This can be quite subjective, but when you get it right, you really do get the perfect gift.

With sustainability a hot topic, do you feel that consumers are looking closely at the type of wax used?

Definitely. In the years we’ve been on the market we’ve seen a shift in the conversation from us explaining why soya wax is beneficial to the customer initiating these questions. Since this is something fundamentally important to us as a business, we’re delighted to see the change.

Andrew Nettleton

Managing Director, Ashleigh & Burwood Why do you feel candles continue to have popularity with the consumer?

Candles continue to be a cornerstone of home fragrance for some consumers, as they stimulate the senses in a different way to other home scenting methods. When lit, their glow complements the fragrance that is released stimulating positive feelings with their warmth and light.

What attributes do you feel a candle should have to make a great gift?

The key ingredients have to be impactful fragrance, quality wax blend, attractive vessel and well considered packaging.

With sustainability a hot topic, do you feel that consumers are looking closely at the type of wax used?

There is a lot of marketing focus on the benefits of various wax types, however there is also a lot of misleading information out there using popular buzzwords such as vegan or organic.

What about the container – does this also resonate through to glass or tins, for example from recycled materials?

What about the container – does this also resonate through to glass or tins, for example from recycled materials?

We make a point to not have any single use plastic in our products, which is always met with positive feedback. We also offer a recycling scheme in our stores and offer ideas to reuse the containers for those who don’t live nearby. The containers are also recyclable. Our customers are very receptive and appreciative of this, but in comparison to the ingredients, it’s probably secondary.

From consumers there is a lot more thought given these days to product origins and the ingredients or materials they are made from; this includes home fragrance in general, candle wax and the vessel that candle is presented in. Beautiful candle vessels that have an afterlife such as our Wild Things and The Heritage Collection candles are a popular choice in this respect.

When we look at the type of wax used, do you see consumers looking for candles that state suitable for vegans or vegetarians?

How do you keep abreast of trending fragrances?

The segment of the market for whom this is crucial is definitely growing. When we were starting these questions wouldn’t come up quite as frequently as they do today, so yes.

Do you feel consumers are aware of burn times and sooting when selecting a candle?

Certainly. Most customers are concerned with the value for their money, which is the burn time aspect. Sooting can be both an issue of aesthetic as well as health so that is probably one of the most common enquiries too.

What type of support do you give your retailers?

We pride ourselves of a great service to customers and retailers alike. We also have a very talented in-house photographer and a graphic designer so we’re delighted to offer support throughout the whole selling journey, not just dispatching the orders.

Will you be exhibiting at any UK trade shows during 2022 – how important are these to your business?

We will be at Scotland’s Trade Fair Spring in Glasgow in January 2022 as well as at the AIS Indx Linen & Housewares show in February. We’ve always loved part taking at the trade shows so we’re very glad we get to do that again, after a years break due to the pandemic.

22 Gifts Today

We work very closely with the leading fragrances houses. We will listen to their trend forecasts whilst paying close attention to the market to ensure we are at the fore with fragrance developments and fashions.

What type of support do you give your retailers?

Our team of Sales Agents are on hand to assist retailers with purchasing decisions in conjunction with our Customer Operations Team based at Head office. Another layer of support is offered by our trade website, from which retailers can place orders (live stock info), download resources such as; brochure, price list, point of sale materials, and marketing materials. Additionally, we offer many point of sale materials including fragrance testers and full sized testers free of charge with orders. To further support with point of sale matters our Visual Merchandiser, is on hand to advise.

Will you be exhibiting at any UK trade shows during 2022 – how important are these to your business?

We’re very much looking forward to exhibiting at Spring Fair 2022 and we’re hoping it will be a great show after such a long absence! The shows have been a very important part of our business over the years. We do recognise that needs are changing though and in addition to shows, retailers are also able to find out what we have on offer at any point during the year at one of our three regional showrooms.

Vanessa Curry

Managing Director – Best Kept Secrets When we look at the type of wax used, do you see consumers looking for candles that state suitable for vegans or vegetarians?

Many times we are asked if our candles are suitable for vegans and I’m pleased to report that with the odd exception (Coastal Breeze as it has shells on it), they are!

Our handmade natural soaps are too (again we do have exceptions – Goats Milk & Lavender and Lavender, Oats & Honey) which leaves eighteen different types of soap that meet the criteria of Vegan.

No nasties in our soaps - No SLS, No Parabens, No fragrances containing Phthalates, No Triclosan.

Do you feel consumers are aware of burn times and sooting when selecting a candle?

I don’t think burn time is the first thought when it comes to purchasing a candle. Its more about how the candle looks and how the fragrance makes you feel although further down the buying process burn time may come into thought.

Good quality candles and good wick care are so important when talking about sooting. Mostly sooting can be reduced by trimming the wick and removing any carbon buildup. It’s worth spending a few minutes advising customers to read the burning guidelines and many manufacturers nowadays are advising customers on how to get the best out of their candles.

Paddy Heyland

Owner/Partner - Heyland & Whittle With sustainability a hot topic, do you feel that consumers are looking closely at the type of wax used?

Yes – all our candles are a unique H & W soy wax blend – NOT Paraffin.

What about the container – does this also resonate through to glass or tins, for example from recycled materials?

All our Eco range vessels are made from 100% recycled glass and packaged in fully recycled FSC card. All our other candles are in recyclable glass and tins.

What type of support do you give your retailers?

We offer ‘sniff me’ samples, together with POS suggesting reuse, repurpose and recycle.

Will you be exhibiting at any UK trade shows during 2022 – how important are these to your business?

Yes, these are vital to us. The two shows in 2021 beat all previous show records.

For 2022 you can find us at Harrogate Christmas in January, Spring Fair – Birmingham, Harrogate Home & Gift and Autumn Fair, Birmingham.

Our candles have a pretty impressive 50 hour burn time.

How do you keep abreast of trending fragrances?

Our retailers are great at telling us what they want, after all they are face to face with the public.

So many products are born from Left: Vanessa Curry, customer feedback. One reason for Right: Paul Curry, Head of attending trade shows is to keep the Manufacturing relationships going so we can find out what’s heading our way next.

Fragrance houses are excellent at forecasting new trends and we work closely with them to launch new fragrances that are bang on trend.

Will you be exhibiting at any UK trade shows during 2022 – how important are these to your business?

We love trade shows. This is our time to reconnect with our customers and hopefully find some new ones too. Boy are they hard work but it’s a great feeling when our retailers tell us that we’re doing it right and how much they love our products. It makes it all worthwhile!

Our next trade show is Spring Fair, 6-9th February. Hall 4, 4B36. Hope to see you there.

Jacqui Gale MBE

Chief Executive, Wax Lyrical What attributes do you feel a candle should have to make a great gift?

Of course it should be visibly beautiful. Whether it’s in glass, or ceramic; intricately designed or very simple to look at; coloured or not. We also make non fragranced taper candles in beautiful colours and they can make a wonderful present if the home prefers candle sticks. We don’t always know exactly what someone else likes, but we usually know if they prefer citrus or floral for example. If not, there are many fragrances such as a linen or cotton which can appeal to everyone for refreshing their room.

It’s important to check the science behind the beautiful gift. Every single combination of vessel, wick, wax and fragrance is tested in our state-of-the-art lab for burn performance and stability. We make sure our candles don’t soot, smoke or tunnel. The fragrance is blended throughout the wax, not just poured on the top part.

With sustainability a hot topic, do you feel that consumers are looking closely at the type of wax used?

Yes, but it is vital we educate consumers that, for example, soy wax isn’t necessarily a more positive choice for the environment. It’s not necessarily cleaner burning, it just has a less negative connotation than the word paraffin. Grown on an industrial scale, soy has many negative environmental and socio-economic impacts. Beeswax is an option but it’s very difficult to scent and that is a key reason consumers want a candle, for its fragrance. Some of our ranges use a blend of paraffin wax, which can be found naturally, occurring on the leaves and fruits of many plants, such as on the skin of apples or derived as a by-product from crude oil, which contains the wax from the plants that lived 500 million years ago. The wax exists, unchanged, as a fraction of the crude oil and is simply separated from the oil and cleaned.

In some of our ranges, we use a vegetable wax blend and in two of our new collections for 2022, we are using coconut wax. We are committed to continually looking at ingredients and the manufacturing process to drive down our carbon footprint.

How do you keep abreast of trending fragrances?

There are thousands of fragrances and it is a very personal choice, regardless of trends.

We draw on industry and marketing research and our own customers. We create new fragrances every year, but we also hold fast to customer favourites, for example our Gold, Frankincense and Myrrh has been a Christmas best seller for 20 years. There are so many components which go into candle fragrance, we continually create and test new combinations. But also stay true to our heritage, 41 years, drawing inspiration from our home surrounded by the Lake District and the natural world.

Gifts Today 23

Spotlight Preview Stationery & Cards

Gift and card in one A popular choice with customers are these Forever Cards by Love Country.

Imagine receiving a beautiful wooden card in the post which you can hang up and keep forever?

These special cards feature a wildlife watercolour design on one side and a heartwarming story or poem on the reverse written by the artist. They are lightweight to post and come with string attached ready to hang up as a plaque.

A gift and a card in one! Available in everyday and Christmas designs.

Tel: 01502 507352 support@lovecountryuk.co.uk

Inspired

Perfect for Potter fans

journaling with Rhodia Goalbooks

The perfect stationery range for Harry Potter fans everywhere!

Whether it’s home, school, college or work, show the love for the Wizarding World with this matching range comprising of an A5 notebook, pencil case and stationery set.

Tel: 0116 2843640 customerservices@pyramidinternational.com www.pyramidinternational.com

ExaClair now offers its popular softcover Goalbooks in an exciting array of 27 colours ranging from subtle pastels to vivid and bright shades.

Journaling has become a very popular pursuit in recent times, encouraging mindfulness and helping with stress relief through thoughtful writing, drawing and colouring.

Containing 120 sheets of Clairefontaine’s signature premium quality, PEFC Certified 90gsm ivory brushed-vellum paper that’s loved by pen fans globally, these Goalbooks are popular with both novice and accomplished journaling enthusiasts.

24 Gifts Today

Tel: 01553 696600 sales@exaclair.co.uk www.exaclairlimited.com

LONDON STATIONERY SHOW 17-18 May 2022 Business Design Centre

Save the date Whether you’re a buyer looking for new brands or a brand looking for buyers, LSS is the event for you!

Registration opens Jan 2022.

For stand enquiries, contact Chantelle.white@oceanmedia.co.uk

Spotlight Stationery & Cards

British made

Get organised and make an attractive stationery display with the selection of Desk Jotters and Weekly Planners from Love Country.

Each is beautifully illustrated with their popular wildlife designs and incorporating lines of poetry across the pages.

Hardback Notebooks and Magnetic Shopping Pads are also available in a wide choice of adorable designs. All British Made.

Tel: 01502 507352 support@lovecountryuk.co.uk

Bring the past to life Neo Deco notebooks

ExaClair Limited, the UK supplier of Clairefontaine, brings 1920s designs into the modern day with its chic Neo Deco collection.

Opulent and elegant this selection of notebooks, harmoniously marries attractive colour combinations with geometric and vegetal patterns. The notebooks incorporate a striking gold print within the cover designs and also feature the classic sewn spine and PEFC certified, super-smooth 90gsm Clairefontaine brushed vellum ivory paper that is loved by pen fans globally.

The notebooks are available in various sizes: 7.5 x 12cm, 9 x 14cm, 11 x 17 cm, and 14.8 x 21cm (A5).

Tel: 01553 696600 | sales@exaclair.co.uk www.exaclairlimited.com 26 Gifts Today

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Gifts Today

RETAILERS’ PANEL

Gifts Today questions independent retailers to find out their thoughts on the year ahead, looking at trends and consumer buying behaviour.

Samantha Gibbs Nest Gift Shop 2021 was a turbulent year for many, what are your hopes for 2022?

Continuity is my biggest hope for retail. We have coped so well during times of unpredictability and vulnerability and we really showed our fighting spirit and resilience but now we deserve some security in balance. We are an industry of routine and pattern (however chaotic some of the seasonality of our year blesses us with!) but 2022 would be best served to us with the reassurance of consistency.

Do you feel that 2022 will see a difference in the way consumers shop for gifts?

I think there is a wonderful regularity to the gift industry and there is a reassurance that it will never sleep, so however customers consume, they will do so at the same pace as previous years but with a smaller average spend in 2022.

I think the acceleration in the growth of online sales has an inevitability to it that means customers will continue to adapt their buying and swap to online shopping, however they will look to their online shopping experience to match that which they would receive instore. Those that choose to still shop instore will want the comfort and reassurance of seeing the products first-hand. Shopping has become an experience within the gift industry and they want their senses to be lifted. There is great pleasure in choosing gifts and customers will look to use shopping in store as a treat and something to absorb and feel grateful for and at this point the added opportunity of self-purchase increases and we can create add on sales and increase atv.

What do you think will be trending in your store during the year?

We are predicting products which embrace a sense of security and reassurance will continue to do well, home fragrance, candles, wax melts. Wooden toys will continue to match the nostalgic sense that the last two years have highlighted to us all. Jigsaws and puzzles will make us stop and enjoy the simple pleasures and board games embrace the sense of family and positive time spent together.

Is there a particular product category that is performing well for you when we look at the gifting arena?

Our biggest figures always come from jewellery and women’s accessories. Jewellery is by far our most successful category which we are hoping to see continued increases in. Our range of changeable bag straps has been a self-purchase win and most importantly we intend to continue to increase our range of scarves, which sell better than they ever have done before. We don’t predict this trend is about to slow.

How important do you feel social media will be to the business in 2022?

Reluctantly, very important. It goes without saying that with the growth in online shopping comes an inevitability that social media goes hand in hand with it, but I still feel as a business and as an industry we have a lot to learn and it’s a huge area of trial and error. It is a necessary evil in my eyes and one I am very happy to pass on to an inhouse expert, but that said it has huge power to directly influence a captive audience and the power and immediacy of its success cannot be denied and is of huge value.

Do you have any exciting news or plans during 2022 that you would like to share with GT readers We are about to expand the business having been a successful recipient of a sustainability grant from which we were lucky enough to be able to purchase a laser engraver. This will extend the range of personalised unique products we can offer our customers and it will be a very exciting expansion of the business. We are going to continue to develop and manufacture our own range of exclusive jewellery charms and we will hopefully be working with Leicester University design department to offer students the chance to work alongside us with our CAD designs. And quite exciting news came in the Autumn when I won Leicestershire’s Women in Business Small Businesswoman of the Year which was a lovely surprise and one I was very grateful for especially after some very challenging times. Roll on 2022, it could be another incredible year one way or another!

28 Gifts Today

Claire Hembrough Strawberry Blue 2021 was a turbulent year for many, what are your hopes for 2022?

My hope is that we can all stay safe and get back to some normality. I do think customers are supporting local retailers and suppliers more this year Do you feel that 2022 will see a difference in the way consumers shop for gifts?

There is a change taking place on the High Street with shopping becoming more of a leisure activity than a necessity. Tourist destinations have benefited with people holidaying in this country and certainly for myself, has helped trade massively during 2021.

What do you think will be trending in your store during the year?

There is a real trend for outdoor living and working from home, so lots of barware, picnic and signs are trending..particularly the Lockdown Bar (established 2020) by Austin Sloan.

Is there a particular product category that is performing well for you when we look at the gifting arena?

Candles, especially soy wax with essential oils.

My favourite is by the lovely girls from Evoqua Home Gingerlily.

How important do you feel social media will be to the business in 2022?

Really important to reach the younger demographic who use Instagram. As an example, I’ve recently signed up for Pixie who showcase independent businesses and encourage customers to gain pixie points whilst shopping independent.

Do you have any exciting news or plans during 2022 that you would like to share with GT readers?

I’ve recently opened my new shop Collectable in the basement of my shop Strawberry Blue. It’s a lighting and lifestyle emporium of contemporary lighting, natural lifestyle products and collectable antiques.

An exciting range to stock with wide range of Stationery, Gifts and Homewares super quality and proudly British made featuring original artwork by Sarah Reilly sarah@lovecountryuk.co.uk www.lovecountrybysarahreilly.co.uk Best Selling Seed Cards

Countryside Enamel Pin Collection

RETAIL INTERVIEW:

&quirky

Feeling

quirky

It’s all about quirky and the unusual for this independent retailer. Gifts Today had the pleasure to catch up with Paul Cheshire, co-owner of &Quirky to find out more.

What was the inspiration behind opening the doors to &Quirky? &Quirky was set up to bring some eclectic and quirky products to our local High Street. Based on previous business experience we noticed the items which had big appeal were the unusual items which were not on every High Street but would make a home more unique and on trend.

Can you tell us a little about your floorspace – how do you manage this?

Our little shop has three floors, with six small rooms. This allows us to theme each room or create a different shopping experience. It also enables us to try alternative product ranges which will then help us with future buying.

What do you feel makes you stand out from competition within your area?

The different ranges of products which we source from the UK and Europe make us unique, as well as our customer service – to help source items which we do not hold in the shop.

30 Gifts Today

We try to source unusual quirky items which make customers smile when they come in – and hopefully buy!

How do you find products that offer that something different as a gifting solution?

We visit both home and international trade events; we also visit supplier showrooms which enables us to see products before launched. The use of social media also enables us to find new smaller brands or identify a growing trend. We also have local makers who contact us to sell products in our shop which would complement our product ranges.

Do you feel that your customers have altered their spending behaviour when we look at the gifting arena?

At present it seems as if customers are very price sensitive – we try to offer competitive pricing, although with the increase costs of importing items, sadly prices will need to be put up. As we offer unusual items, as a special gift, the price points of these do not seem to prevent customers from purchasing.

Would you say that the products you stock reflect the shop name?

Yes, we try to source unusual quirky items which make customers smile when they come in – and hopefully buy!

Do you have a particular item or category that is currently performing well for you and why do you think this is?

We have a Press For Champagne bell which has been our best seller this Christmas period. Due to the novelty and quirky appeal, it is a great gift for any lover of Champagne. Also due to the increase in home bars this item would be the perfect accessory.

Have your experienced a particular challenge over the course of the last 12 months (apart from the Pandemic) and if so, how did you overcome this?

Due to the increase costs of importing we have had to try to cover the costs by importing more items from these suppliers. As we only have a small storage space in store we have had to take on additional storage to house this, which has also enabled us to have further products which are available on our website, but not in store, unless requested. This has helped us improve our website offering and so improve our sales.

And of course, what has been your highlight and largest achievement over the last 12 months?

Simply being able to stay open has been the biggest achievement! We worked hard during the lockdown on improving the store and product offering. This then was beneficial for our social media channels, as the styling brought more customers to the store. We also re-worked our top floor for Christmas to create a lovely Christmas grotto feel which again helped to bring more customers to the store.

What about your website. Do you stock the same items online as you do instore?

We try to list all the products available in store on our website, although some items would be store collect only due to the nature of the product. We also have additional items which are not featured in the store but are available on our website.

How important is your website to your business?

Our website is very important – this was even more apparent when we were in lockdown! We work hard on getting our products listed online as even local customers look online before coming instore to purchase. We have plans in the New Year to improve the look of our site, to try and increase sales as we feel this is an important investment to our business.

Do you operate across social media platforms and if so, how successful are these to you?

We have Facebook and Instagram accounts which we manage daily. Social media enables us to reach a customer base for free and helps to then generate sales and interest in our store.

When we look at social media, do you feel that influencers or bloggers assist in driving awareness and desire for certain products or specific categories?

We haven’t worked directly with any influencers or bloggers, although have worked with some interior designers which have helped to improve our followers. We have found that by regramming a customer image seems to improve our sales for certain products.

trends. Spring / Autumn Fair helps us see UK based companies.

Do you feel you receive adequate support from your existing suppliers, or is there more you feel they could offer you?

Overall, most of the suppliers have been amazing over the past 12 months, although stock for UK based companies continue to be in short supply. It was inevitable that costs would be increasing and most suppliers have done this gradually and advised ahead of time although sadly, some imposed sharp increases on pre orders. The majority have also improved their own websites and introduced a virtual show room or being able to book a zoom call to view and order new ranges, which was very beneficial when trade shows were cancelled.

Finally, do you have any exciting news or expansion plans that you would like to share with Gifts Today readers?

We are hoping to improve our website in the New Year and we are looking forward to introducing the new quirky ranges of products into our store in 2022.

How do you keep abreast of current or upcoming trends?

By following certain suppliers, they seem to be ahead of the trends which you then see trickle down to other suppliers throughout the year.

We try to capture a trend we feel would work for our customer base and offer a quirky style of product. Also, by seeing what is proving popular on social media accounts also help us in planning for future products.

Will you be visiting any specific trade events during 2022 – how important are these to your business and why?

We hope to be visiting Maison & Objet in Paris, as this is one of our favourite shows as it helps us find international suppliers and by seeing the designer stands helps see the up-and-coming

Gifts Today 17

Product Focus At Home

Life in bloom

Ashleigh & Burwood announce three new fragrances to range.

Wildlife

favourites

Proudly celebrating British manufacturing, Love Country offers a delightful range of wildlife favorites of the finest quality.

Find your favourite wildlife creation all brought to life from Sarah Reilly’s box of watercolour paints.

If you are looking for some Fine China items to make a great display, check out the wildlife range offered by Love Country. They have a selection of pretty Trinket Boxes and Heart Shaped Dishes which come in a stylish grey giftbox with silver embossed details on the lid for a very smart finish. They also offer a range of Fine China Story Mugs which are beautifully illustrated and also come with a cute story wrapped up inside.

Since their launch at the start of 2021, Ashleigh & Burwood’s Floral Reed Diffusers in their Life In Bloom collection have proved incredibly popular, so for SS22 they are pleased to launch three bright new colours and fragrances.

The Reed Diffusers, that are presented in beautifully designed glass vessels inspired by the sleek shapes of perfume bottles, come with colour coordinating stems of gypsophila flowers for a stunning decorative touch.

The three new fragrance options for this season (Lotus Flower & Watermelon, Wisteria & White Woods and Orange Blossom & Mandarin) are presented in feel-good shades of shocking pink, sky blue and zesty orange for vibrancy to lift the spirits.

Tel: 01932 267060 COT@ashleigh-burwood.co.uk

Stacking up nicely

The perfect gift for any couple, these stackable mug sets are just made for sharing.

Whether it’s a Harry Potter licensed ‘catcher and keeper’ set or Friends favourites Phoebe and Monica – all tastes are catered for. The mugs neatly stack together and make a great gift.

Tel: 0116 2843640

Tel: 01502 507352

customerservices@pyramidinternational.com

support@lovecountryuk.co.uk

www.pyramidinternational.com

www.lovecountrybysarahreilly.co.uk

32 Gifts Today

supply the UK tariff free

Simon Pykett Country Manager spy@bloomingville.com Mobile: 07967 209156

Profile Preview Ivyline

A sustainable Christmas

with Ivyline

Book your place now to visit the new Ivyline showroom to preview all their ranges.

W

hen the world has become increasingly conscious of our impact on the environment, even the smallest of changes can make all the difference in becoming more sustainable, especially during the Christmas period.

At Ivyline their exquisite Christmas catalogue has been curated with the planet in mind, whilst still bringing festive joy into our homes and gardens. They aim to put people and the planet first and every sourcing decision they make is carefully considered for its impact on our planet and reducing our carbon footprint.

With guaranteed delivery times and pricing stability across their suppliers, you can plan your seasonal buying with confidence. Ivyline audit each of their supplier manufacturing facilities to ensure they meet global ethical standards and with their business focus to drive down the excessive use of packaging, this ensures your purchases are ethical and sustainable from design through to deliver.

Ivyline’s 2022 Christmas collection is made up of five key trends: Rituals, Eco-Friendly, Japandi, Nordic Forest and Luxury Christmas.

Their ethical, ‘Sustainable Christmas’ edit for 2022 is designed with love in their UK studio and comprises everything from candles and decorations, to tree buckets, mats and skirts. A beautiful Christmas shouldn’t cost the earth and with their sustainable Christmas collection you can help to reduce the impact on the environment as well as filling homes and gardens with festive cheer.

34 Gifts Today

For over 45 years, the mission at Ivyline has been to enrich lifestyles by creating inspirational products for the home and garden. Founded in 1976, their dedicated team work passionately throughout the entire production process, ensuring beautiful, high quality and trend driven products bring home and garden to life.

With functional beauty at the heart of everything they do, their vast array of Christmas tree skirts and buckets will guarantee the tree is the focal point of the living space. The handmade, foldable tree skirts, made from warming and inviting jute, seagrass and water hyacinth, blend effortlessly with chic and contemporary wicker decorations and wreaths that have been selected with sustainability and the best interests of the planet at heart.

Oozing luxury and helping to create a warm and snug atmosphere, Christmas isn’t complete without their candles, sourced from European manufacturers, casting enchanting shadows around the room from their advent tealight

centerpiece, or from the new ‘Felicity circular base lanterns’ which feature acacia wood from FSC approved forests. Their eco-friendly candles are made from 100% vegetable rapeseed oil and no aluminium is used for the wick holder.

Opened in November 2021 their brand-new showroom in the heart of Warwickshire gives you the chance to preview all their ranges, including the core Ivyline range, Outdoor Furniture and Botanicals collection, as well as the new Christmas 2022 edit.

With complimentary lunch and gifts, visit their Covid-19 safe facility at their head office, open between 11th January - 28th February 2022.

Tel: 0844 800 2214 sales@ivylinegb.co.uk Ivyline Ltd, Stoneleigh House, Stoneleigh Park, CV8 2LG

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Feature: Sr Eval

Sustainability in their heart

St Eval set to launch new collections at Top Drawer 2022

N

estled on their farm in the heart of North Cornwall, St Eval sustainably craft high-quality candles using a blend of traditional and contemporary methods. They have been perfecting the art and science of high-quality candle-making for over 28 years and create unique, natureinspired fragrances.

All of St Eval’s products are made with an emphasis on sustainability and in recognition of this they have been honoured with a Queen’s Award for Enterprise for Sustainable Development. This is the first-ever Queen’s Award for a candle manufacturer representing the highest accolade for business success and sustainability.

Taking care of nature is at the heart of everything they do at St. Eval. In celebration of their very own wildflower haven on their farm and their desire to protect bees, butterflies and dragonflies, St Eval have launched a special new collection.

This new Nature’s Garden Collection features three terracotta pots with pretty insect designs, each with a unique fragrance capturing the essence of nature: discover Geranium in their Bee pots, new Sweet Pea in the Butterfly pots and new Garden Greens in their Dragonfly pots.

The team at St Eval will be showcasing both

36 Gifts Today

Taking care of nature is at the heart of everything they do at St. Eval. In celebration of their very own wildflower haven on their farm and their desire to protect bees, butterflies and dragonflies, St Eval have launched a special new collection. of these new collections together with their range of high-quality candles, botanical hand wash and lotion and home fragrances at Top Drawer.

Visit them at Top Drawer, stand I61 to learn more.

Tel: 01841 540 850 info@st-eval.com www.st-eval.com

INTERVIEW:

Bloomingville

In full bloom

Driven by a fascination of Nordic style and fashion, Bloominville has grown to become an international business covering many categories. Gifts Today questions their CEO Lars Krog to find out more.

Can you tell us a little about Bloomingville’s history? What was the inspiration behind the business?

Back in year 2000 the company was founded on a fascination of Nordic style and living. Passion and devotion grew the company over the first decade and in 2014 it became part of Regent Holding, a group based in the US, experts within home décor having a global approach.

Bloomingville has always wanted to offer a wide range of products, that all look great individually but especially when put together.

As a Danish company, where does the inspiration behind the range come from when we look at design and lifestyle?

A dedicated PD team, based at HQ in Denmark, are the nerve of every new collection presented.

The team always have eyes and ears open.

New trends are being spotted, discussed and further delivered via moodboards to sourcing and sampling departments.

As a business, Bloomingville started as an own brand company and has moved steadily to become a multi-brand business.

Can you tell us a little more about this?

The Bloomingville brand grew organically through the first years and in 2015 a little sister was born. Bloomingville MINI has its own separate brand, yet still rooted in the Bloomingville aestethics.

Joining a global group in 2015 opened for cross selling the different entities and products and now 38 Gifts Today

Bloomingville Group offers a range of brands including Bloomingville, Bloomingville MINI, Creative Collection and Illume x Bloomingville.

When did products from Bloomingville first enter the UK market and what was the ethos behind this?

During the first years of Bloomingville, the brand was primarily offered in the beginning in Denmark and then further on also in Scandinavia. However, based on a great interest from nearby countries, ten years ago the company hired sales reps in the UK, at same time with other European countries. That step has certainly proven right.

Since then, the UK business has performed exceptionally well – can you tell Gifts Today readers a little more on how this growth has been driven?

In 2018 we had a change of structure in the UK. Signing an agreement with Simon Pykett.

Simon was tasked with building both a team in the UK to represent us and also our turnover.

This partnership has seen us double turnover in less than three years.

How many SKUs do you currently hold within your offering and what categories do these cover?

We always carry between 2.500 and 3.000 SKUs in stock at our warehouse in Denmark. The entire collection is even within the brands split in different themes giving our customers a great chance of finding styles exactly supporting their businesses.

We offer a wide range of products within more categories such as Home Accessories, Lighting, Kitchen, Bed & Bath, Outdoor, Furniture, Room Scents and Children (within Bloomingville MINI).

A yearly collection of Christmas is also offered.

When we look at the gifting arena, is there a particular product or range that your customer’s currently view as a must have item?

We have a wide range of products in our collections, but there is no doubt that decorative items for the home are top sellers currently. Our customers are looking for anything that helps bring some cozyness and decorative styling into the home, for example, smaller pieces of furniture, vases, candle holders, scented candles, cushions, storage and kitchen accessories.

Naturally, many brands experienced delivery and stock issues through the Pandemic and of course Brexit – did this create any challenges for the business and if so, how did you overcome these?

The Pandemic and obviously also Brexit has certainly caused a lot of challenges for the business. In Bloomingville we have tried aggressively to face and attack these challenges from day one.

The team working with purchase and import has done a tremendously great job in securing a solid level of inventory throughout both 2020 and 2021.

Our UK export team has, similar to import, spent many of hours trying to make export to UK and import in UK as smooth as possible.

Q1 was tough, but we think we succeeded

and during 2021 we have heard a lot of positive feedback from our UK customers. What has really helped is that we now pay the post Brexit tariffs and don’t seek to recover this cost from our customers; trading with Bloomingville is tariff free!

What about the logistics of the company?

How does this currently operate to ensure smooth delivery to your retailers?

We continue shipping out of our warehouse in DK, but in the first half of 2021 a new partnership with a forwarder specialised in UK export/import began. This way we are able to track and follow goods, take them through customs, pay the duties and deliver to customers with little disruption.

How do you monitor current and future consumer trends?

Like our PD team, everyone in our company has their eyes and ears wide open. Members of the different teams participate in internal worldwide group discussions, external seminars and networking groups as an example and last but not least our company is extremely data driven. Every week we look at many numbers in order to see, if a market or a territory is moving in a direction not necessarily foreseen. These data is continuously being discussed on different levels of the company.

As a Nordic inspired design led company, Bloomingville has been established since the year 2000, what do you feel has seen the highest level of design change when we consider home interiors and furnishings?

Over the last years we have worked to split our collection into themes that match different styles of home interiors. There is a distinguished difference between our Nordic and Cozy themes from the Bloomingville collection.

Also, with our Mini brand we have moved in a direction where we design products that fit into every room of the home – not only the kids room but when put in a living room it blends in perfectly with the rest of the home.

At S Fair we w pring ill giv custome rs an int e our roduc to t collectio he Spring Summ tion ns er portfolio of all four brand . We hop s in our e custome r with a to inspire our mix and esse ntials tha of newness t are haves fo r the com musting season.

With our Creative Collection we place ourselves in a different style and setting that in some ways is more quirky and differentiated but still blends in with both a Nordic Home but also a more bohemian style home.

Is the brand supported on any social media platforms and if so, what benefits do these bring to the business?

Bloomingville is one of the leading companies when it gets to actively support different social media platforms. With way more than half a million followers on different platforms, we have a chance to interact with our followers and that feedback is extremely important, not only to us but also to our customers.

You recently became a brand partner with Yarnton’s Home & Garden, are you looking to partner with other retailers?

Most certainly. We value all of our customers, large and small. However, where a retailer has the space to give us a dedicated corner then we can really support this to build a Bloomingville shop within a shop. These projects always work very well.

As an exhibitor at the UK’s largest trade event Spring Fair, what can visitors expect

to find this year on your stand.

We will give our customers an introduction to the Spring Summer collections of all four brands in our portfolio. We hope to inspire our customer with a mix of newness and essentials that are must-haves for the coming season.

What are your expectations while exhibiting at Spring Fair?

We have put together an amazing new 22SS collection. We sincerely hope we will be able to share this new collection with all our customers, both existing and newcomers. We know that by exhibiting at a trade show we get a unique chance of presenting our products the way they are meant to be. Beautifully styled amongst each other for that Bloomingville feeling we all love.

Finally, do you have any exciting news on the horizon that you would like to share with Gifts Today readers?

We just want to highlight that we are introducing a strong new collection with more than 700 new SKUs for the coming season.

We continue to have a strong stock situation and deliver problem-free to the UK, so we hope to strengthen our partnerships with UK customers even more for the coming season.

Join the Bloomingville journey If you would like to join Bloomingville on their successful journey then Simon Pykett would like to hear from you: spy@bloomingville.com Mobile 07967 209156 Gifts Today 39

Profile Preview

Izzy and Oliver

Enesco

Money Banks

Lots of newness

with Enesco

Enesco launches some great new collections ready for 2022

New up-and-coming artist creating designs exclusively for Izzy & Oliver collection Enesco, is delighted to announce a new artist exclusively joining the ranks of its ever-growing Izzy & Oliver collection of homewares and practical products.

A young illustrator and artist from Pennsylvania, Abby Diamond uses ink, water colour and marker pens to create fluid artwork with colour flowing outside the lines. With inspiration coming from birds, insects and the nature around her, this young talent has created new artwork for exclusive use by Enesco under the Izzy & Oliver umbrella.

With her exclusive designs set to feature across different formats across desert plates, mugs, tea towels, aprons, treat jars, hanging ornaments and trivets, the pieces will be perfect for use around the home.

A lovely self-purchase or thoughtful gift, pieces in the new collection from Izzy & Oliver by Abby Diamond start with a SRP of £12.00 and are presented in a branded gift box.

Rococo inspired Couture de Force characters into its Disney Showcase collection New figurines added into Couture de Force range from licensed collection, Disney Showcase, bringing these characters, their stories and most importantly collectors’ childhood memories to life, through highly detailed character-correct figurines with a twist.

Calling on the rococo fashion of the 18th century, the new figurines will be brought to life like never before, with their iconic costumes harnessing the trends of the time, based on extravagance, elegance, style, and sophistication. With rococo fashion enjoying somewhat of a renaissance thanks to popular period dramas like Bridgerton and Outlander, Enesco is now taking this trend to Disney, creating fashionable updates on heritage characters, in a new old-fashioned way!

The new Disney inspired collection includes Snow White Couture de Force Figurine, the Evil Queen Couture de Force Figurine, The Cinderella Couture de Force Figurine and lastly Cinderella’s evil stepmother the Lady Tremaine de Force Figurine.

All four rococo inspired pieces into the Couture de Force range from Disney Showcase measure 20.0cm tall and retail with an SRP of £85.00. Hand crafted and painted by skilled artisans, each piece is presented in a branded gift box, truly capturing the magic inside of each Disney Showcase piece.

Money banks added capturing some of Disney’s most-loved characters Enesco is delighted to present new money bank additions that gifters and recipients alike are bound to love, as part of the contemporary gift retailer’s Enchanting Disney Collection.

The Young Prince (Bambi Money Bank) features the sweet little deer laying down with his hooves curled underneath his body. Measuring 16.0cm tall, Bambi’s head is aloft with his big doe eyes bringing the piece to life – a lovely addition to a little one’s naturethemed nursery or for fans of the film franchise.

New commemorative figurine to mark 120th anniversary of Peter Rabbit Enesco has proudly been producing Beatrix Potter giftware since gaining a licence in 1987 and now, in celebration of the world’s most iconic mischief-maker’s 120th birthday, Enesco is unveiling a brand new and exclusive figurine, featuring everyone’s favourite bob-tailed bunny in his iconic blue coat.

Standing at 18.5cm tall and retailing with a SRP of £35, Running Peter Rabbit captures the image of the little bunny as illustrated on the original cover of the book; poised on his hind legs with paws in front of him and ears pricked up in the air.

40 Gifts Today

In a departure from classic Disney and a move towards the Pixar era, fans of Finding Nemo will love the Sharkbait money bank. Featuring everyone’s favourite clown fish, Nemo measures 10cm tall and is presented in a slightly curved structure as if swimming through the big blue world. The attention to detail on this piece is impeccable and faithful to the narrative of the film, with Nemo’s lucky fin clearly showcased in the piece.

Finally, for fans of Tim Burton’s iconic movie The Nightmare Before Christmas, customers will be able to take home their very own Jack Skellington in the shape of the Master of Fright money bank.

All money banks from Enchanting Disney are made from ceramic and are hand painted to create a high quality, yet practical, collectable piece of movie memorabilia. With recommended SRPs starting at £19.95, each piece is presented in a branded kraft gift box, making them a lovely gift for a special recipient or gorgeous self-purchase for Disney fans alike.

www.enesco.co.uk uksales@enesco.co.uk

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This trade only show is organised by Hale Events Limited. Telephone 01934 733433. www.hale-events.com

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Preview Fair Focus Top Drawer

Top Drawer readies for February The January Top Drawer show has rescheduled to February with positive news that it has doubled in size compared with its autumn version.

T

he show is now set to open its doors on 20th February for its S/S22 edition. With a focus on reinventing your new season edit, Top Drawer promises to help retailers find something new to excite your customers for 2022.

This February among the line-up visitors can find new products from Aery, Atlantic Folk, Beyond Living, Block Design, Bookspeed, Caroline Gardner, equilibrium (Joe Davies) Jellycat, Miss Milly, Quail Designs, Repeat Repeat, St Eval, Talking Tables, Manta Gifts, Luckies of London, Lifeguard Press, Portico Designs, Alex Monroe, Afroart, Big Metal, Canova Gifts, Halcyon Days, Doughnut Bags, Forma House, Half Moon Bay, Lorna Syson, Manta Gifts, Pilgrim, The Art File and S-C Brands, plus many more.

Alongside established brands there’s a handpicked selection of up-and-coming names including: Concrete & Wax, Freckleface Home Fragrance, Luckies of London, Makers Cabinet Matere, Studio Piffany Copenhagen, Rosendahl Design, Talking Tables, The Northern Line, Vida Kids and Printer Johnson.

Russell Rule, show director, said: “With the show dominating the whole of Olympia London, buyers will have access to more than 650 brands and thousands of the newest products on the market, at one safe and carefully designed event. The S/S edition of Top Drawer returns for the first time since 2020 and myself and the team are excited to welcome our loyal customers back through the doors.”

Top Drawer’s new season message of ‘reinvent your edit’, aims to highlight how we are turning a corner in retail and looking ahead to a more positive outlook. The retail world is changing and Top Drawer is here to help you adapt, learn and grow to stay relevant – with unmissable tips, expert advice and thought provoking conversations to inspire you for the season ahead.

Registration to attend Top Drawer is now open, head to www.topdrawer.co.uk to get your free ticket and plan your visit.

42 Gifts Today

“With the show dominating the whole of Olympia London, buyers will have access to more than 650 brands and thousands of the newest products on the market, at one safe and carefully designed event.”

Russell Rule, show director With safety remaining paramount the show organisers Clarion Events are working closely with the Association of Event Organisers (AEO), which is liaising with the government directly on live event guidelines. They said: “In line with current government advice and previous event feedback, we have produced an All Secure Standard document which details measures we are implementing to reach our commitments above.

Both visitors and exhibitors will be required to show their Covid pass or provide proof of a negative lateral flow to attend.’’

instyle

All wrapped up When we want to add interest to an outfit the first thing we reach for is a scarf, the range from Joe Davies has you covered.

The humble scarf has become a wardrobe staple in recent years and it’s safe to say ladies scarves are among the most important fashion accessories on offer. The Spring/ Summer Equilibrium scarf collection from Joe Davies (Top Drawer, stand 283) has something for everyone, pretty pastel prints, gold and silver foils and vibrant retro styles which are all sure to compliment your wardrobe essentials. There are some cute, fun designs too - loveable pooches and adorable hedgehogs to name just a few!

Ordering from the Equilibrium collection couldn’t be easier with their signature “little and often” ordering system and their low minimum order value of just £100 for free nationwide delivery.

The range will be available to view at Top Drawer, stand 283 & Spring Fair – NEC- Hall 4 – C10/D11.

Tel: 0161 975 6300 sales@joedavies.co.uk www.joedavies.co.uk

Perfect Mother’s

Day collection Mother’s Day

made special More colourful than ever before, Joma Jewellery’s SS22 Mother’s Day Collection adds another splash of optimism to their most colourful season yet!

Fresh watercolour card styling completes every piece, giving new life to their Carded A Little Bracelets. Each bracelet has its own sweet sentiment and, of course, one of their lovely signature poems.

Designed to connect with all kinds of mums, this season’s collection now includes ‘Love You Grandma’ and ‘Lovely Step Mum’ alongside their bestselling sentiments. Plus, when you buy the whole collection, it comes complete with complimentary Silver Bow Gift Bags - the perfect finishing touch to every Mother’s Day gift.

Tel: 01295 263430 enquiries@jomajewellery.com 44 Gifts Today

Katie Loxton introduce their Mother’s Day Collection – available to order now.

Featuring a gorgeous, botanical spring colour palette that includes a gorgeous sage green and dusty pink, the SS22 Mother’s Day Collection from Katie Loxton connotes a sense of renewed love and appreciation after an uncertain couple of years.

They’ve achieved this with soft vegan leather secret message pouches (all of which conceal an embossed secret message inside!) and beautifully boxed gifts such as their cute mugs, heart keyrings and sumptuous longlasting candles - there truly is something to hero every mum!

Plus, when you buy the whole collection, it comes complete with complimentary Gold Bow Gift Bags - the sweetest finishing touch for every Mother’s Day gift!

Tel: 01295 250879 enquiries@katieloxton.com

INTRODUCING MOTHE R’S DAY COLLECTION 202 2

“Our much-anticipated Mother’s Day Collection features the sweetest sentiments, so there’s truly something for every mum!”

SECRET MESSAGE POUCHES FROM RRP £18.99

MOTHER’S DAY ‘A LIT TLES’

BEAUTIFULLY BOXED ‘A LIT TLES’

FROM RRP £1 7.99

FROM RRP £24.99

IF YOU WISH TO BECOME A STOCKIST PLEASE EMAIL OUR LOVELY CUSTOMER SERVICE TEAM: KATIE LOXTON: ENQUIRIES@KATIELOXTON.COM | JOMA JEWELLERY: ENQUIRIES@JOMAJEWELLERY.COM WHOLESALE.KATIELOXTON.COM WHOLESALE. JOMAJEWELLERY.COM

instyle

Gifting with Life Charms Fresh, modern and fast selling ranges.

Life Charms have a number of new collections to choose from including:

OCCASION GIFT BOX

#BECHARMING

Beautiful set of bracelets wrapped around a plush cushion and packed in elegant gift box with pink ribbon. Eight new designs with set of three bracelets and five designs with set of two.

Beautiful pure silver plated 5mm beaded stretch bracelet with five keepsake charms. The bracelet comes presented in a luxury gift box, with raised circle platform.

If you are looking for something fresh, modern and fast selling to add to your offer Life Charms would be delighted to discuss becoming a stockist of Life Charms jewellery this year.

Tel: 02034882656 info@lifecharms.co.uk www.lifecharms-trade.co.uk

Forget me not

Spring is in the air at Alexander Thurlow and this new wonderful selection of Forget Me Not’s are already proving popular.

Part of their highly successful “Love Nature Love Flowers” jewellery range, these items join a host of other vibrant and seasonal flower lines including the best-selling Snowdrops, set to be blooming over the next month.

Fancy digging up this divine collection? Visit Alexander Thurlow at Spring Fair: Hall 3 Stand D20.

Tel: 020 8766 6466 www.alexanderthurlow.com

Love nature, love flowers

With Mother’s Day soon approaching, you can count on Alexander Thurlow to bring you a gift selection that truly delivers.

The best-selling ‘Love Nature, Love Flowers’ range is rich in beauty, meaning and significance - making it the perfect place to pick out a thoughtful gift.

Whether you choose a regal orchid or a bouquet that lasts, this range offers a heartfelt way to show mother’s everywhere that you care.

46 Gifts Today

Tel: 020 8766 6466 www.alexanderthurlow.com

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New products

Deco on the arts

Lesser & Pavey to launch new Art Deco collection at Spring Fair.

On trend with gogo fashion The Love Knot is a celebrated trend in jewellery and symbolises a bond with a loved one as the design usually has no discernible beginning or end.

The stylish new Equilibrium Love Knot collection from Joe Davies is a modern take on the traditional Love Knot with intricate styles that can be worn with everything. What’s more the love knot is a “go-go” fashion among modern girls as it oozes elegance and urbanity.

You can be assured of a warm welcome awaits you on the Joe Davies stand (Top Drawer, stand 283). Their friendly team look forward to showing you around their vast array of Equilibrium jewellery and making your buying experience as easy and pleasant as possible. Everything will be available to buy in their trademark “little and often” quantities and the minimum order value is just £100 for free nationwide delivery.

You can view the range at Top Drawer stand 283 & Spring Fair – NEC- Hall 4 – C10/D11

Tel: 0161 975 6300 sales@joedavies.co.uk www.joedavies.co.uk

The Lesser and Pavey art department are proud to launch at Spring fair the latest from the inhouse design team taking inspiration from past eras The ‘Art Deco’ collection is quite unique and includes an excellent range of tableware items with fine Mugs, coasters, placemats, trays tea for one, butter dish, jugs as well as glass decorative items such as tea light holders, candle plates, oil warmer, frames and jewellery boxes.

Art deco is a design style from the 1920s and 1930s in furniture, decorative arts and architecture characterised by its geometric character and this range boasts much of this theme of design.

See this range and many more on the newly located Lesser and Pavey stand in Hall 5 D10-E11 and D20-E21.

Tel: 01322 279225

Elegant ladies Moon beams are the stunning new female figurines from Joe Davies.

These elegant ladies dressed in their finery sit on decorative moons ordained with a lovely embossed pattern. The cream and grey colour palette is bang on trend for home d´ecor and will make lovely statement pieces on a mantelpiece, fireplace or table. There are 4 beautiful models to choose from couple, friends, Mum & daughter and lady moon dreaming.

Tel: 0161 975 6300 sales@joedavies.co.uk www.joedavies.co.uk

Mr&Mrs Fragrance New Niki additions

Three New additions are available from January within the popular Niki Refillable Car Fragrance range.

Pink Chrome supplied with Gardenia de Tahiti, is a vibrant design that will fill any journey with a stunning floral fragrance and this elegant Niki design. Gold Chrome and Rose Gold Chrome add an extra dimension to your travels and are supplied with Oriental and Cedar Wood fragrances respectively. Oriental is new for 2022 and is also available as a refill, so that consumers can interchange their fragrance with their favourite design.

Available with a CDU or a free-standing display the range is available in over 100 combinations to give even the most discerning shopper a choice.

Available from Broughton & Beech Ltd the UK & Ireland distributor.

Tel: 01270 335034 sales@broughtonandbeech.co.uk www.mrandmrsfragrance.co.uk 48 Gifts Today

Perfect for snacking

New soup and snack mugs from Pyramid.

In a range of popular licenses, from Harry Potter to Friends, these new soup and snack mugs are perfect for the chillier months when a salad just isn’t going to cut it! The mugs are ceramic and come with a plastic vented lid, perfect to pop in the microwave for a winter warmer.

Tel: 0116 2843640 customerservices@pyramidinternational.com www.pyramidinternational.com

Campfire mugs sets

From The Rolling Stones to Star Wars, there’s something for everyone.

A fabulous gift option, this range of campfire mug sets emulate the traditional enamel tin mug – but come in ceramic, packaged together with a matching woven keychain.

Ranging from The Rolling Stones to Star Wars, there is something for everyone making this range the perfect gift.

Tel: 0116 2843640 customerservices@pyramidinternational.com www.pyramidinternational.com

Gifts Today 47 49

New products

Make a house a home

The Orangery Collection is proud to be the exclusive partners for PTMD Collection and Bizzotto for the U.K. & Ireland. This season, PTMD and Bizzotto present thousands of new designs across their interior, outdoor and Christmas catalogues.

PTMD Collection PTMD’s SS22 season is styled in their signature rebellious luxury aesthetic. Presenting thousands of distinctive designs across their home accessories collection, PTMD’s SS22 edition is a tribute to the luxurious amorphous design. Amorphous design is a modern tribute to organic design, standing against structure and prohibitions. PTMD entwines a luxurious tone to this aesthetic, lacquering designs with sumptuous monochromatic tones, metallic highlights and natural hues.

PTMD’s Christmas 2022 season launches this month. PTMD present an alternative take upon festive aesthetics with thousands of seasonal designs. Due to high volumes of interest, it is advised that customers reserve their Christmas stock before lines sell out.

Bizzotto Bizzotto collaborates with partners across the globe to create 1000’s of design led pieces with a commitment to high quality, sustainability and beauty.

Bizzotto’s collection of home interiors endeavours to create positive interior spaces. This season, their vast collection debuts trends across an array of categories within the Atmospheric, Contemporary, Nordic, Cosy, Classical, Industrial and Vintage aesthetics. This season’s interior collection celebrates the luxurious divinity of the textures and tones of the natural world, with designs inspired by organic forms and natural hues, intermingled with sensual Italian style. Recycled wood cabinets meet expressive oil painted canvas’ and fauna inspired metal coffee tables, which are complimented by characterful bookcases and sculptural light pieces to create a home space enveloped with personality.

Bizzotto believes that the garden is an inherent element in a harmonious home space. Each year, they present three outdoor furniture collections, “Homemotion”, “Bizzotto Outdoor” and “Yes”.

Bizzotto embrace the vibrancy of seasonal celebrations in their AW22 catalogue, presenting 1000’s of brand new festive designs.

www.theorangery.org

Love of a family New from Joe Davies is their brand new range of Family Tree Figurines.

This meaningful range encompasses the love of family relationships. Mother, Father, Husband, Wife, Daughter and Son sit beneath a decorative ornate tree with sweet little birds sitting in the branches. The soft creams and greys sit beautifully with current home decor colours, making them the perfect gift to evoke happy memories.

There is lots more to see this year at Spring Fair, visit Joe Davies at the Spring Fair – NEC- Hall 4 - stand number – C10/D11.

You can be assured of a warm welcome, the friendly award-winning staff look forward to showing you the vast array of gifts and making the buying experience a happy one. Ordering from Joe Davies could not be easier thanks to the company’s trademark ‘little and often’ ordering system and its minimum order value of just £100 for free nationwide delivery.

Tel: 0161 975 6300 sales@joedavies.co.uk Web: www.joedavies.co.uk 50 Gifts Today

New launches from

Katie Loxton

Fashion and lifestyle brand Katie Loxton announce two exciting product launches Established in 2015, Katie Loxton creates little luxuries full of everyday chic. This fashion and lifestyle brand is delighted to announce two new additions to their existing collections, including Katie Loxton Hand Creams and Katie Loxton Pets Collection.

Katie Loxton Hand Creams Katie Loxton Hand Creams have landed! Years in the making, the brand are thrilled to introduce their brand-new collection of Hand Creams.

These Hand Creams boast the same sweet sentiments that run through the current season and previous Katie Loxton collections, including ‘Hello Beautiful’ and ‘Fabulous Friend’, which complement their bestselling Pouches, Homeware and Accessories.

Made in the UK, these nourishing Hand Creams are vegan friendly, include both vitamin A and E and shea butter to improve skin texture, and feature gorgeous scents such as sweet almond and vanilla flower, and orange zest and peach blossom.

Available to order now with immediate delivery!

Katie Loxton Pets Collection After years in the making, Katie Loxton are finally introducing their first ever Pet Collection!

Made for all the pet owners out there, this thoughtfully curated collection features all the classic Katie Loxton design details that their customers love; vegan leather design, sweet sentiment and luxe little additions, meaning these pieces complement current and past seasons perfectly.

Available in two chic colourways, the Dog Collar and Lead will easily turn your customer’s dog walk into a catwalk, while the matching Paw-fect Treats Bag will be a must-have for all the dog mums out there! Available to pre-order now, shipping in January!

www.katieloxton.com

Brand New collection for 2022

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UK Customer Services Telephone: 01228 404022 Email: uksales@enesco.co.uk Overseas Customer Services Telephone: +44 (0) 1228 404066 Email: eurosales@enesco.co.uk

www.enesco.co.uk

ENESCO LIMITED, Brunthill Road, Kingstown, Carlisle, Cumbria, England, CA3 0EN

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