Gifts Today January 2024

Gifts Today

Gifts Today Month: January 2024 Issue: 3 Volume: 34

Month: January 2024 Issue: 3 Volume: 35

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Gifts Today January 2024

Contents

Regulars 8

Message from the Editor

10 News 44 Shop Talk: Two independent retailers share insights into their businesses: Linda McBride, owner of Gibbles Gifts, Cards &

p 38

Home in Anstruther; and Karen Carter, giftware and seasonal buying manager of Woodlands Garden Centre in Sevenoaks

49 Trade Talk: We hand out crystal balls to six leading gift suppliers and ask them to divine 2024 trends, and reveal their Spring plans and predictions for the year

Columnists 26 Jo Williams, owner/director of gift shop Joco in Nuneaton

27 Greg Rose, co-owner of Maybugs gift

p 46

shop chain in East Sussex

43 Anna Berry, director and co-founder of Retail100 Consulting

Gifts Today team

48 Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira (British Independent Retailers Association)

Advertisement Manager

Cover Story

Marian McNamara Marian@lemapublishing.co.uk

30 Henry & Co. has emerged as a

Editor

powerhouse in the home fragrance sector

Clare Turner Clare@lemapublishing.co.uk

across the UK - and will mark its one-year anniversary at Spring Fair. Managing

Layout/Design

director Mark Rees and creative director

Rick Vickers rick@lemapublishing.co.uk

Managing Director

Mark Naish mark@lemapublishing.co.uk

Jo Ashton discuss the company’s amazing

p 12

p 14

growth story

Fair Focus 14 Harrogate Christmas & Gift

Production Director

24 Christmasworld

Paul Naish paul@lemapublishing.co.uk

Retail Focus 28 Gifts with Presence’s mission is ‘to take product to where the people are’.

Buyer Julie Dachey explains the company’s concept and plans

46 Nick Pitman, managing director of Oswaldtwistle Mills Home & Lifestyle Centre, talks about this landmark

Lema Publishing Ltd

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

Lancashire shopping destination which is celebrating its 30th anniversary

p 24 p 43

www.giftstoday.media

Product Focus 12 New Products 25 Christmas Gifts

p 16

p 31

32 Candles 33 In Style 34 Female & Mother’s Day Gifts 40 At Home

Supplier Focus 38 Signare 41 Ceramic Design Heritage 42 Quirky Barn

Contents Jan.indd 1

21/12/2023 11:24

4TH  7TH FEBRUARY 2024 NEC BIRMINGHAM | HALL 4 C10D11

29(5

%5$1' 1(: /,1(6

Celebration Frames

Heartfelt Art

Top Dog by Village Pottery

Equilibrium Robins Appear

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

Email: sales@joedavies.co.uk

Magical Mushrooms

www.joedavies.co.uk 30

p 30

p 33

Message from the Editor

p 24

p 23

www.giftstoday.media LinkedIn: @giftstoday Twitter: @giftstodaymag Instagram: @giftstodaymedia

A

re you ready to ‘ring in the new’? As we all Pitman, managing director of Oswaldtwistle Mills Home know, a New Year is filled with possibilities. & Lifestyle Centre in Lancashire (which is celebrating its In the words of the great American inventor, 30th anniversary), notes: “We always visit the not-to-beengineer and businessman Charles F. Kettering: missed Spring Fair.”

“Every time you tear a leaf off a calendar, you present For Julie Dachey, buyer at Gifts with Presence, “the a new place for new ideas.” quest for ‘that something new’ is constant and I look So for this issue, we asked a selection of the everywhere” - and that includes Spring Fair. Our next industry’s leading suppliers to reveal their plans for issue will include a comprehensive preview of the event, Spring, and give their predictions of what hot gift which is held at the NEC in early February. themes will be trending over the next 12 months.

Until then, there are several other key trade shows From colours and materials to styles and design to attend. The UK gift exhibition diary kicks off with themes, their answers make fascinating reading.

Harrogate Christmas & Gift, which takes place in the Our columnists shared some interesting outlooks North Yorkshire spa town from January 14 to January too. For Jo Williams, owner/director of the multi17. Turn to page 14 to read our 10-page preview of award-winning gift shop this well-loved festive fair, which Joco in Nuneaton, 2024 is grows in size every year. In fact, this “The UK exhibition diary set to bring many changes. edition promises to be bigger, kicks off with Harrogate year’s She says her shop is brighter and better than ever.

Christmas & Gift. Read our undergoing a makeover, And we’ve been busy collating with a full redecoration and even more pages of new products 10-page preview of this to entice new display stands - and she shoppers into your stores, is also making alterations to well-loved festive fair, which including perennially profitable gift the ranges that she stocks. grows in size every year” performers such as candles, fashion As Jo points out: “It’s accessories, home décor and more. often hard for independent retailers to compete Plus, there’s a special feature on Female and Mother’s with national chains, due to their buying power and Day gifts. Always a key trading period, Mother’s Day marketing, so it’s a case of having to think quickly to falls on Sunday March 10 this year. This occasion adapt and bring customers the products they want, has evolved over the years to become a celebration but which aren’t already stocked elsewhere. To achieve honouring not just mums, but mother-figures and this, we have started to reintroduce more exclusive maternal bonds. There are also plenty of other brands, which can’t be stocked locally - and this also opportunities for your customers to show appreciation helps bring customers in from further afield.” to the women and girls in their lives. Plan ahead to offer Her fellow columnist Greg Rose, co-owner of the a wonderful range of treats to keep the ladies happy. three-strong gift shop chain Maybugs in East Sussex, As always, I’m more than happy to hear from readers has also been thinking ‘outside the box’ by launching who would like to take part in our features, interviews, own-brand Maybugs candles from local producer and news pages. You can email me at The Bourne Candle. “These fabulously scented wax clare@lemapublishing.co.uk or connect with me on lovelies aren’t cheap, but the quality and local message LinkedIn. is amazing,” he says. However, he adds, “Spring Fair So, let’s raise a toast to 2024 and celebrate the start of is just around the corner, and we are ready to spend, a happy - and prosperous - New Year! spend, spend!”

Clare Turner, Editor Other retailers featured in this issue also highlight Spring Fair as a go-to source for new products. Nick clare@lemapublishing.co.uk

p 28

p 34

p 45

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

Leader Jan.indd 1

21/12/2023 11:24

“Ceramic Design Heritage Launch Museum Collection Brand”

Come See Full Collection at Top Drawer Olympia, Stand G32 Contact Paul Travis 07909 549584 Emal paul@cdheritage.com www.cdheritage.com

News

Clarion Retail appoints

Alison Graham Clarion Retail has announced that Alison Graham has joined the portfolio, where she will spearhead the commercial team on flagship trade show Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival.

London Stationery Show under new

ownership Max Publishing has acquired London Stationery Show from Ocean Media Group.

London Stationery Show is the UK’s only event dedicated to the stationery, arts, crafts, paper and writing instruments sector. The acquisition also includes Stationery Matters magazine/ online and National Stationery Week.

The exhibition will take place, as planned, from May 14 to May 15 at the Business Design Centre in Islington. Chantelle White has also joined the Max Publishing team from Ocean Media to continue as its event manager.

As well as further developing London Stationery Show, Max Publishing said it is fully committed to expanding Stationery Matters,

both as a magazine and digital news platform, as well as further elevating National Stationery Week (May 13-19).

Sarah Laker, owner of Stationery Supplies, the award-winning independent retailer with stores in Marple and Wilmslow will continue to head up the promotional and PR activities for this celebratory week of all things stationery.

New date

for Glee

The garden and outdoor living trade show Glee, held annually at NEC Birmingham, will now take place in September. The change will take effect for the 2024 edition - just in time to mark the show’s 50th anniversary.

The new dates are September 10 to September 12.

The decision to change the timing followed months of consulting steering groups and industry-wide collaboration. Boyd Douglas-Davies, the show’s new strategic advisor, said: “The full calendar was reviewed but September consistently embodied the ‘sweet spot’ for retailers and suppliers.

“The September timing allows for the industry as a whole to be ready, including those that export, with the show perfectly positioned at the natural close of one season, and with a new one on the horizon. This will lead to a more streamlined process, with Glee marking the transition between seasons, with ordering finalisation, planning and preparation coming immediately after the event.

“From a logistics perspective, a September event also offers multiple benefits.

Stores are quieter, with teams enjoying a brief reprieve before the festive season commences. It is also term time for most schools, meaning no crossover with the summer holiday season. This, in turn, allows retailers to bring bigger teams to Glee to be inspired and source new products and supply partners from the hundreds of exhibitors and innovators that find their home at Glee every year.”

She joins Clarion having spent more than two decades working at Spring and Autumn Fair and more recently on logistics event Deliver.

Clarion Retail show manager David Westbrooke said: “I’m thrilled to welcome Alison to the team. Having worked with her previously, I know without doubt that she is the perfect person to help drive our portfolio forward. Her impressive event experience, combined with strong relationships across the retail industry, reinforces our campaign to deliver the best possible customer experience.”

Alison added: “It’s fantastic to be joining Clarion at such an exciting time, and a pleasure to be working on an event I can truly believe in. I’ve lost count of the number of times that I’ve visited Home & Gift over the years, and I’m excited to be there this time as an organiser instead!”

Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival takes place in Harrogate from July 21 to July 24.

WeCool Toys joins the Paladone family

Consumer products company Paladone has acquired WeCool Toys Inc, a designer and manufacturer of dynamic toys, crafts, and compounds, headquartered in New Jersey, US. Founded in 2016 by Jeff Osnato and Ross Alber, WeCool Toys has become one of the global market leaders in the slime toy category with its Compound Kings brand, and has launched thousands of products into 35 countries.

The acquisition is aligned to Paladone’s strategy of growth into new categories that leverage its extensive licensing relationships and market distribution to grow internationally and bring a wider range of trend-led consumer goods to customers globally.

Jeff will continue to lead as president of WeCool Toys Inc, reporting to Jim Downey, CEO of Paladone Products.

10 Gifts Today

NewsJan.indd 1

21/12/2023 10:37

Fresh faces at Hyve Group Hyve Group has announced the appointment of Jackson Szabo as portfolio director for Spring Fair and Autumn Fair, and Soraya Gadelrab as event director for Spring Fair and Autumn Fair.

Nicola Meadows, divisional managing director for the Retail, Manufacturing and Engineering Division, said: “We’re thrilled to introduce our two new leaders Jackson and Soraya. Their fresh perspectives and wealth of experience will undoubtedly invigorate our sector. Bringing together years of experience with a track record of innovation and success, these talented individuals will propel the team forward, setting new standards within our industry.

“Jackson and Soraya are brimming with exciting ideas that will inspire. Their vision and creativity will shape our future endeavours, fostering growth and excellence. With their arrival, we’re embarking on an exciting chapter; together, driving positive change and achieving remarkable results.”

Spring Fair takes place from February 4 to February 7, and Autumn Fair from September 1 to September 4. Both events are held at NEC Birmingham.

Pantone unveils its

Colour of the Year 2024

PANTONE 13-1023 Peach Fuzz is the name of the Pantone Colour of the Year 2024.

The shade is described as a ‘velvety gentle peach hue, softly nestled between pink and orange, whose all-embracing spirit enriches heart, mind, and body’.

Pantone Color Institute executive director Leatrice Eiseman said: “In seeking a hue that echoes our innate yearning for closeness and connection, we chose a colour radiant with warmth and modern elegance. A shade that resonates with compassion, offers a tactile embrace, and effortlessly bridges the youthful with the timeless.”

Time to enter Recognition for Mantons Gifts & Cards Retail entrepreneur and Dragon’s Den star Theo Paphitis chose Mantons Gifts & Cards in Port Erin on the Isle of Man as his Small Business Sunday Winner on December 3.

Theo started Small Business Sunday (#SBS) to help celebrate and promote small businesses. It is one of the leading small business networks in the UK with more than 4,000 active members.

Each week, Theo welcomes six small businesses who tweet, comment or post an image to @ TheoPaphitis, describing their businesses to the #SBS community.

Theo said: “I admire people who have a passion and energy for their business and hope that the SBS Award will give a valuable profile to Mantons.”

Chris Beards, owner of Mantons Gifts & Cards, commented: “I’m extremely proud to have been able to have been chosen by such a successful and respected retailer as Theo. I have long admired him, not just for his success but also for the ethical way he runs his businesses. I would also like to thank all our amazing team members and our fantastic customers who have helped to make this possible with their support.”

The Small Awards

Calling all small businesses! Applications for The Small Awards 2024 are now open.

Launched in 2017, The Small Awards targets the whole small business sector. The competition is organised by Small Business Britain, which runs a number of national campaigns for small businesses, including Small Business Saturday.

The categories are: High Street Hero – Best high street business, Bricks and Clicks Award – Best multi-channel small business, Legacy Award – Best family business, Supply Chain Champion – Best B2B business, New Kid On The Block – Best business start-up (less than 18 months), Digital Star – Best digital only business, Heart Of Gold – The business that contributes most to their community, At Your Service – Best small service business, Sole to Sole - Sole trader award, Mission Possible - Social enterprise business, CIC, not for profits or charity and Net Hero - The business that demonstrates exceptional commitment to environmental sustainability.

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

Small businesses are invited to apply at https://thesmallawards.uk/apply. Entries close at midnight on February 29.

Online gift marketplace Gifts Instead of Flowers was the winner of the New Kid on the Block category of The Small Awards UK 2023 for the best business start-up (less than 18 months).

L-R: Awards host Sue Perkins, Gifts Instead of Flowers co-founders Abby Jenkins and her mum Jan Jenkins, judge Professor Kerensa Jennings

Gifts Today 11

NewsJan.indd 2

21/12/2023 10:37

New products Posies &

pastels Joe Davies

Sorbet pastels were all over the S/S24 catwalks, so it’s no surprise that the same colour palette is set to be one of this season’s leading trends. The brand-new Equilibrium Candy Collection from Joe Davies makes exploring this trend fun and easy.

Pretty two-tone pastel stones such as pinks and lemons, and lilacs and blues, are set into silver and gold-plated necklaces, bracelets and earrings.

Meanwhile, the new Timeless Posy range makes the perfect gift solution for any occasion, whether it be Mother’s Day, a birthday, Valentine’s Day, thank you or just simply thinking about you.

Choose from small and large posies of roses, picked and preserved to last forever, as well as more traditional posies of natural dried flowers. The posies are in pretty colours to match any home decor, and each comes boxed with a gift tag. There are also mini dried posies packaged in a small hanging packet to give as an extra present - and each bunch of natural dried flowers is different, adding to their charm.

Ordering from the Joe Davies’ gift and jewellery collection is both easy and affordable. Free nationwide delivery, carriage paid orders of just £100 and a ‘little and often’ system are all hallmarks of its award-winning service.

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

For young bookworms Personalised Memento Company

Personalised Memento Company has revealed its brand-new Personalised Children’s Encyclopedia.

This educational book is a wonderful way to teach little ones all about the world, space and everything inbetween.

With bright colourful pages filled to the brim with interesting facts, it makes a fantastic gift for kids who are eager to acquire new knowledge. They will have fun finding their own name throughout the entire book - and the recipient can add a special message, creating a unique gift that will be treasured for years to come.

Adorable additions Rainbow Designs

Rainbow Designs has many product launches and several character anniversaries to celebrate in 2024. To commemorate the 30th anniversary of the Lion King, it will introduce the Disney Baby Lion King range in February, which includes the My First Soft Toy, Comforter and Ring Rattle, as well as the Lion King Sensory Play Mat. The company will also be honouring the 35th anniversary of Elmer. Its complete nursery toy collection for Elmer includes the Elmer Soft Toy, Unfold and Discover Activity Toy, and the new Play and Go Squares. 2024 is set to be an exciting and colourful year for Elmer with a host of activations planned, and the new Elmer and the Patchwork Story selected as a £1 title for World Book Day in March.

Paddington is the nation’s favourite bear, and 2024 is set to be a huge year for this beloved character, with the eagerly anticipated release of a new movie, and the third series of the award-winning TV preschool show, The Adventures of Paddington.

So this year will see product launches across all three of Rainbow’s best-selling Paddington ranges. Joining the renowned Classic Paddington collection will be the Cuddly Paddington wearing a Union Jack Scarf, Paddington in Boots presented in traditional telephone box-style packaging, and the Classic Collector Paddington in a keepsake box decorated with the classic Peggy Fortnum illustrations.

In addition, Rainbow Designs will be marking the 30th anniversary of Guess How Much I Love You, and the 55th birthday of The Very Hungry Caterpillar, with new product releases. It will also be adding to its Bedtime Cuddles Nightlights range, which includes Paddington and Peter Rabbit, with the adorable Bedtime Cuddles with Winnie the Pooh, which will be available for A/W.

Call: 01329 277300 Email: sales@rainbowdesigns.co.uk Visit: www.rainbowdesigns.co.uk

Email: sales@personalisedmemento.co.uk Visit: www.personalisedmemento.co.uk 12 Gifts Today

New Products.indd 1

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Exciting new arrivals Museums & Galleries

Museums & Galleries (M&G) is delighted to announce a new gift packaging and giftware licence with lauded British artist and printmaker Angela Harding.

The initial release includes an Angela Harding tote bag, large zipped pouch, and a crystal paperweight, together with everyday and Christmas gift wraps, gift bags, and gift tissue packs. Products are available immediately, and all will be on show at M&G’s stand at Spring Fair (3L30-M31).

Angela Harding was introduced to printmaking while studying art at Leicester Polytechnic in 1979-82. During her student years, she was mainly an etcher, but since 2008 she has worked in lino/vinyl and silkscreen.

The recurring inspiration for Angela’s work is the flora and fauna of the British countryside. Her studio looks out over the farmland landscape of Rutland.

Fields of sheep and the soft greens, greys and blues of this land form the backdrop for her paintings and prints.

Angela does not strive for a literal portrait but attempts to capture the mood and atmosphere of her surroundings. There is an allegorical aspect which references British painting of the 1930s, 1940s and 1950s, and artists such as Eric Ravillious, David Jones and Winifred Nicholson.

Working primarily as an artist and printmaker, Angela has forged a storied career in publishing, with hundreds of book covers to her credit, as well as merchandise licensing.

M&G licensing manager Eddie Clarke says: “Myself and our creative director Ben Dorney are long-time admirers of Angela’s oeuvre, and it is absolutely thrilling and a huge privilege for M&G to finally add some of her magic to our collection.

The new pieces are very distinctive and special, redolent of that absolutely iconic Angela Harding style. We are very excited to release the new range generally in 2024, with more to come.”

Meanwhile, M&G is offering retailers the chance to harness the power of its stunning new and expanded home and giftware products with a free bespoke stand providing 360º of display.

With an eco-friendly look and materials, the stand allows for a mix-and-match display or complete sets of M&G’s new organic cotton, insulated bottles and mugs, and PLA travel mug gift products. The stand is 160cm high and 100cm long by 36cm deep.

M&G’s exclusive collection of Home & Giftware brands includes the V&A, TATE, The British Museum, Catherine Rowe, Wild Press and more, as well as iconic designs from the wider M&G collection.

The stand can come fully merchandised, or alternatively customers can create their own product mix by selecting from M&G’s range. Initial minimum order totals apply.

The stand joins M&G’s extensive collection of attractive and useful point of sale options, from a selection of greeting card spinners, gift wrap displays, and the popular and proven gift stationery and journal spinner. Full details are in M&G’s 2024 catalogue, and the new display will be on view on M&G’s stand at the Spring Flair.

M&G general manager Tom Williams is enthusiastic: “The new stand answers an urgent retailer need - it packs a lot of product on a relatively small footprint in a very attractive and sales-friendly way, offering a big bang for your buck!”

Call: 01373 462165 Email: sales@mgml.co.uk Visit: www.museumsgalleries.co.uk Gifts Today 13

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Preview

HARROGATE CHRISTMAS & GIFT

Bigger, better &

brighter in 2024!

Harrogate Christmas & Gift is the most relaxed trade show in the business - so it’s no wonder that it’s expanded in size for this year’s edition, as Sarah Welsh discovered when catching up with exhibition organiser Simon Anslow…

C

hristmas is supposed to be the most magical time of the year, so seasonal buying should - in theory - be stress-free as well.

But with festive sales now key to the profits of retailers of all sizes (particularly garden centres) what buyers really want is a Christmas trade event that is as straightforward as it is successful in terms of networking and building on established relationships.

When it comes to Christmas & Gift, located in the North Yorkshire spa town of

Harrogate, the ease is infectious - which explains why it grows in size every year. In fact, the 73rd edition of the show promises to be bigger, brighter and better than ever.

For exhibition organiser Simon Anslow, who has been at the helm for the past 14 years, the excitement kicks off on New Year’s Day when he travels to Yorkshire from his home in Wolverhampton. It means he can be on hand at the show’s venue of the Harrogate Convention Centre from 8am the next morning, when some of the biggest names in the festive industry arrive to start building their stands.

He explains: “It can take two weeks to build some of the stands. For example, Premier Decorations take the whole of Hall H for their display, and there’s always a lot of anticipation with their show hall.

“Other big names who are also returning this year include Gisela Graham, Floralsilk, Festive Productions, Konstsmide, Sagedecor, Smart Garden Products and Ascalon Design.

“Snowlodge will also be back and exhibiting in a much bigger space. They’re going all out with a new décor collection, with artificial trees and wreaths. Like the overall show, it’s bigger and even more festive!

“Personally, I love it all - from watching the first lorries drive up and then the build with the contractors. In theory once the show actually starts on January 14 I can relax, because then it’s all about just ensuring everything is running smoothly.”

This year in Hall Q there are a few new companies exhibiting that Simon says will have huge appeal for buyers of all backgrounds.

“Jingles has taken a large 2,000sq m stand,” he reveals. “They will be showing Christmas ranges, decorations, trees and garden furniture. Then there’s Apac, which is a longestablished floristry company, and will be showcasing its festive ranges and seasonal florals.

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“Harrogate plays host every year to new exhibitors, but we have to date 23 new companies coming to the show this year. These include gift and Christmas company Widdop & Co. and a selection of new greeting cards companies such as Penny Kennedy, Ling Design, Jackson Greeting Cards and The Great British Card Company.

“In general we’re seeing the scope for Christmas retail expanding, and this means more brands are always going to show at Harrogate. The feedback we’re hearing from festive buyers is that many want to come to Christmas & Gift for all their seasonal stock.

“The feedback we’re hearing from festive buyers is that many want to come to Christmas & Gift for all their seasonal stock” “Our show is manageable in terms of size and easy to navigate, and that’s crucial when time is precious for everyone. Christmas & Gift is just simple and stress-free to work around - and it’s also based in one of the country’s most beautiful towns with lots of nice hotels, bars and restaurants.”

While Christmas tops the tree at Harrogate, other categories that are growing in popularity at the show include calendar celebrations such as Halloween, Easter and Valentine’s Day, stationery, and festive homeware.

Premier, We Love Seasons, Gisela Graham, Davies Products and Heaven Sends are just a few of the companies excelling at Halloween designs.

For stationery, as well as more card companies exhibiting, crackers are a product line which is still very important to the show. RSW International and Heart & Soul Studio are just two companies highlighted by Simon which specialise in crackers.

And for festive homeware, buyers will be flocking to visit the stands of Lesser & Pavey, The Satchville Gift Company and Portfolio Home, who Simon says are returning to the show for a second year, having booked a bigger exhibition space.

He adds: “Being located where we are, we do get a lot of exhibitors from across the north of England, as well as Ireland and Scotland. But people will travel to be here, and we have a good crop of people from Devon and Cornwall - although London is a location we’re looking to build on in terms of brands.

“A lot of people want to come back to the same show space they’ve had before and that’s a great place to be, when exhibitors love their position. While Christmas & Gift is growing year-on-year, suppliers and buyers alike don’t want too much change.”

One thing that isn’t likely to alter any time soon is a change at the helm, as Simon’s love for this seasonal Harrogate extravaganza shows no sign of waning.

“We have seven show directors and I will keep working on the show for as long as they own it,” he insists. “So many people fall in love with both this town and Christmas & Gift.

For me, when it gets to 4pm on the last day, I become like a deflated balloon. I do feel a bit flat for a while - but I end up bouncing back quickly in time for Toy Fair!”

Free registration, a full exhibitor list and product search facility, plus general show information is available on the website at www.harrogatefair.com.

What: Harrogate Christmas & Gift Where: Harrogate Convention Centre, Yorkshire When: January 14-17 Web: www.harrogatefair.com Gifts Today 15

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HARROGATE CHRISTMAS & GIFT

Something for everyone Lesser & Pavey Stand: Hall A, Stand A6 Known for its beautiful tableware, homeware and a vast array of gift ranges, Lesser & Pavey has spent the past 53 years building an enviable customer base.

Also home to the brand ‘The Leonardo Collection’, Lesser & Pavey designs range from the traditional to the truly innovative, which is why they can boast offering something for literally everyone.

Director Jonny Greves says: “We’re launching more than 500 brand-new products for our 2024 Christmas range. Tableware, Novelty Lighting, Fragrance, Decorative, Stocking Fillers…

These include new licensed ranges, and new ranges from our in-house art department, as well as a few reimagined classics.”

He adds that the company’s range of Cozy & Comfy Socks, Gloves, Hats & Scarves “is getting bigger and better by the year, and we will have our biggest selection to date. We’ve also introduced Kiddies microwave warmers and hot water bottles. And we have some amazing Santas where the intricate detail and embroidery makes them unlike anything else in the market - they’re a real wow”.

Lesser & Pavey is also known for working closely with artists, including a long-established relationship with the MacNeil Studios and Jennifer Rose, and he is very excited to be launching new ranges from both: “From MacNeil we have new versions of our favourites

- robins. This time a family on the wall of an idyllic country house, Santa loading up his Sleigh outside his Workshop and the Reindeer Cabin, and a brand new ‘White Christmas’ Santa with Snowmen.

“From Jennifer Rose, again we have the favourite winter robins, but with a really classy, contemporary take on the theme.

It’s stripped back with delicate watercolour robins. And alongside this we have a brand new range: a beautiful arrangement of Christmas poinsettias in soft watercolours.”

And finally, he reveals that “we have added to our portfolio from Bug Art, which was one of our most successful licences in 2023”.

Call: 01322 279225 Visit: www.leonardo.co.uk

Xmas complete - inside and out Smart Garden Products Stand: Hall Q, Stand Q1 Smart Garden Products (SGP) has the festive season all wrapped up - with a multitude of new seasonal pieces set to be unveiled at Harrogate Christmas & Gift.

Managing director Jonathan Stobart says: “There are almost 500 new products being launched for 2024 - our most ambitious year ever - with both completely new product groups as well as extensions to many of our popular ranges, including Gonks, Wreaths and Nutcrackers.

“We will be showcasing a vastly expanded lighting range in our darkroom, with an updated layout to create a walkthrough experience, following catalogue order for customer convenience.

“Two new collections that deserve special attention are GlitterTwist and OpaLight: classic Christmas designs made from stunning silver and gold twisted strands and multicoloured shimmering ribbons.

“Wreaths continue to be popular, so we’re introducing seven new families comprising a wide choice of matching wreath designs, garlands and candle table décor. And our Pets

range is a must-see as well – every product group has been updated.”

A trio of completely new product groups will also make their debut. SnowScenes is an assortment of inlit Christmas micro-scenes, combining music and movement on selected designs. Looking Glass offers inlit infinity mirrors in a range of popular Christmas figures and themes. Léger Décor is a collection of ultra-light Christmas décor, ideal for positioning in or on trees or decorating anywhere around the home and featuring an array of cakes, ice creams and sweets, along with a vast selection of candy canes.

And within SGP’s Tree Décor, there is a range of vintage baubles and a vast choice of pendants. Jonathan adds: “We are also introducing a completely new range - so visitors will have to come and see us at Hall Q to find out more!”

Call: 01235 424 100 Visit: www.sgpuk.com

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Preview

HARROGATE CHRISTMAS & GIFT

A sneak peek

at festive wonders Langs Stand: Hall A, Stand A4 & A13 Get ready to unwrap the joy of the festive period with Langs’ Christmas 2024 product launch, featuring an array of gifts and home decorations that embodies the spirit of the season.

Central to the Christmas collection are robin-inspired decorations that capture the essence of these feathered friends, from intricately designed ornaments to cushions adorned with robins and festive berries.

Christmas is a feast for the senses, and what better way to enhance the festive ambience than with Langs’ exclusive fragrance sentiment collection. From the comforting aroma of freshly baked gingerbread to the crisp notes of pine, its scented candles, diffusers and wax melts are great for gifting, as each one has a special verse.

Langs’ whimsical Christmas Cuties range is a magical treat for kids and the young at heart, and the supplier will be unveiling adorable characters from jolly Father Christmas to playful reindeers, teddies and penguins. Unlocking the spirit of Christmas wonder, its magical Santa key is a must-have addition to Christmas traditions. Not just a decorative piece but a symbol of the enchantment that fills the air on Christmas Eve, you can hang it by the fireplace or under the tree and let children experience the joy of welcoming Santa into their homes.

The company’s enchanting Christmas Cottage collection, ‘Home for Christmas’, is

designed to infuse homes with the timeless charm of Christmas cottage scenes. There are delightful decorations with festive wording, all wrapped in classic festive colours.

The cushions will bring warmth and joy into homes with faux fur backing and soft led lighting - let the festive words and phrases bring messages of goodwill. These are not just decorations; they echo the sentiments of the season, so simply enjoy the timeless traditional colours and make your home the heart of Christmas.

And get ready to jingle all the way with Langs’ collection of festive fun gifts, where sprouts, Christmas puddings and carrots take centre stage. Embrace the spirit of the season with a dash of whimsy and a sprinkle of laughter. Step into the world of Sprout humour, along with pud-tastic joy - and who said carrots are just for the reindeer? They’re here to hop into the festivities! And it wouldn’t be Christmas without Langs’ pigs in blankets buddies. This collection is guaranteed to make you smile.

Finally, Langs is extending the festivities with the launch of spooktacular Halloween and cosy Fall collections. So prepare for a journey of seasonal delights!

Call: 01332 340927 Visit: www.richardlang.co.uk

Time to deck the halls!

Pineapple Circus

Stand: Hall C, Stand C15 Luxury artificial floral company Pineapple Circus is exhibiting for the first time at Harrogate Christmas & Gift, and aims to present its floral collection and a trio of Christmas themes in a uniquely captivating manner.

Director Darren Broxup says: “We want to genuinely inspire people through our displays, sparking a desire to recreate the same magic in their own shops or garden centres. We want to leave a lasting impression! We anticipate the popularity of natural and wintry trends to continue, and we’ll be bringing fresh perspective to these themes. The goal is to infuse unique elements into these well-loved styles. And we’re also excited present a pastel theme with a snowy twist.”

a to

Call: 07460 498204 | Visit: www.pineapplecircus.co.uk 18 Gifts Today

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Joyous greetings from Harrogate The Great British Card Company Ling Design Penny Kennedy Stand: Hall Q, Stand Q11 ‘Ink on paper’ expert the Swantex Group is bringing a trio of greetings and gift packaging brands to Harrogate for the first time. And with its sense of style and design-led brilliance, the supplier will have the show all wrapped up.

From luxe gift packaging that celebrates the best in iconic licensed brands alongside in-house design, to premium Christmas and greeting cards, visitors to Stand Q11 at Harrogate Christmas & Gift are in for a real treat.

Debuting at the show are a triple-threat of leading brands: The Great British Card Company (GBBC), Ling Design, and Penny Kennedy.

The Great British Card Company (GBCC) The Great British Card Company (GBCC) is one of the UK’s leading greetings publishers, renowned for an extensive range of thoughtfully designed greeting cards - both individual designs and boxed selections.

The brand has also built an enviable reputation for customer service excellence around the world.

The team at GBCC firmly believes that a greeting card publisher must have wonderful cards, and prides itself on its array of styles.

Inspiration is often taken from the brand’s central location on the edge of the Cotswolds, and the in-house design team bring a wealth of experience in greetings and fashion with a firm understanding of the market.

Alongside greetings, the brand offers an extensive range of lifestyle stationery, plus a full planning and brokerage service: The Great British Card Partnership (GBCP). The team is delighted to launch the new Christmas 2024 collection at Harrogate, including singles.

Call: 01892 838574 Visit: www.greatbritishcards.co.uk

Ling Design Ling Design is a global greetings company with heritage. One of the longest-established publishers of premium greeting cards, it supplies 27 countries worldwide.

Each design in the Ling Design collection is created by a talented team of in-house artists, illustrators and designers. The team loves to explore new design trends to complement the signature artist’s style, providing customers with a complete offering including Everyday, Occasion and Relations, and Christmas.

Recently awarded Winner of Best Christmas Box or Pack at the Henries Awards 2023, Ling Design is delighted to be exhibiting at Harrogate Christmas & Gift for the very first time. And what a perfect place to launch its Christmas 2024 collection!

Penny Kennedy

Call: 01892 838574 Visit: www.lingdesign.co.uk

Call: 01892 838574 Visit: www.pennykennedy.co.uk

Penny Kennedy is a key choice for luxury design-led gift packaging, offering world-class collections from iconic licensed brands and in-house design in more than 30 countries.

The brand’s philosophy is that a brilliant gift deserves beautiful packaging. So whether it’s a foilfinished gift bag, a gorgeous roll wrap, or essentials such as tissue and tags, Penny Kennedy has the perfect solution.

Protecting the planet is just as important to the brand as making a beautiful product, and its tag packs and tissue packaging is completely plastic-free, with roll wrap produced using FSC paper. The collection of beautiful Christmas crackers is also plastic-free and the pieces contain wooden or metal gifts that are both useful and reusable.

This month Penny Kennedy is excited to launch its latest collection of Autumn/Winter 2024 designs at Harrogate Christmas & Gift, including new licensed collections, Raspberry Blossom, Kate Rhees and Paper Salad.

Plus, there are new designs from Morris & Co, Sara Miller London and Toasted Crumpet.

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HARROGATE CHRISTMAS & GIFT

Contemporary

and classic Davies Products Stand: Hall B, Stand B5

Davies Products warmly welcomes you to see the launch of its 2024 Christmas collection at Harrogate Christmas & Gift.

The company will showcase its whole Christmas range of strong selling, well priced lines - and with over 600 new exciting items, there is certainly a lot to see!

Take a stroll down Candy Cane Lane, visit the Sugar Plum Sweet Shop, relax in Nordic Neutrals, wander into Winter Wonderland, enjoy cosy Nostalgic Nights and many more exciting themes.

Featuring a wide variety of styles and materials, you will also find a selection of attractive sustainable products. A perfect blend of contemporary and classic, Davies Products has something for everyone.

See Christmas, Halloween, Fall, Spring and Easter ranges at Harrogate, visit its extensive showrooms, or find Davies Products online.

Call: 0151 922 4246 Visit: www.daviesproducts.com

Softly

sustainable

Keel Toys

Stand: Hall A, Stand A11 Step into the world of Keel Toys in 2024, the proud home of Keeleco: a remarkable range crafted from 100% recycled materials.

Keel Toys is delighted to announce that in just the four years after launching Keeleco, it has recycled the incredible figure of more than 250 million water bottles in the manufacture of the range (figures correct to the end of 2023 stock production).

The company is very excited to say that the Harrogate show offers an exclusive opportunity to preview and pre-order the completely new 2024 Keeleco Halloween, Winter and Christmas ranges. This will be the first time these ranges will be shown to customers!

The Keeleco story has now grown to more than 450 products: Wild, Farm, Sealife, Dinosaurs, Teddy Bears, Puppies, Kittens, Nursery, Pink, Handpuppets and Keeleco Adoptable World collections.

Make sure to visit the Keel Toys stand for a warm welcome and see a fantastic selection of products that blend sustainability and huggable joy.

Call: 01233 506363 Visit: www.keeltoys.com

Christmas,

covered!

Tallon

Stand: Hall C, Stand C19 Visitors who want to get things all wrapped up for the festive season should head directly to stand C19. With more than 50 years of experience in the stationery and gift industries, Tallon International is returning to Harrogate with a wealth of brand-new gift wrap designs, luxury cards, environmentally conscious products and stylish packaging solutions.

Tallon will be launching new branding for Christmas 2024, giving a modern boost to represent how the company is moving forward, developing new ideas and opportunities for the future.

The supplier has developed a new range of premium cards intended for the very special people in customer’s lives. As well as their stunning designs, these cards boast a higher GSM, luxury finishes, and a high-quality box to keep them in tip-top condition.

Many people like to send a special Christmas card to show how much they care, and these beautiful cards are designed for that very purpose.

Tallon strives to be an environmentally-friendly business. The team is committed to developing sustainable product and packaging solutions, sourced responsibly. It also aims to reduce packaging waste and use more recycled materials, reducing single-use plastics.

The brand’s products will now be designed with this in mind and will also display recycling logos that all consumers will recognise.

Other additions include fresh wrapping papers designed with matching gift bags and tags. The design team has worked tirelessly to create co-ordinated ranges that customers simply won’t be able to say no to.

Call: 02476 437 000 | Visit: www.tallon.co.uk

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“It’s exciting and rewarding” Giftware Trading Stand: Hall A, Stand A30

Be under no festive illusion, for the brands who spend months preparing for the UK’s premier Christmas trade show, the Harrogate fair can be hard work. But by the time the doors are thrown open to visitors, the exhibitors’ stands literally dazzle and there is simply no better place to showcase seasonal, celebratory and general gift collections.

Such is certainly the case for experienced gift import company Giftware Trading. The team travels to North Yorkshire from Bristol where its showroom is based, and it has been planning in anticipation of Harrogate Christmas & Gift for months.

2023 proved another busy year for Giftware Trading, and the brand now boasts more than 2,500 different products covering the whole gifting spectrum, from everyday items to Spring, Easter, Halloween and of course Christmas.

Managing director Ben Jeffrey says: “Christmas & Gift has become an essential fair for many buyers, and the balance of exhibitors and size of venue is a perfect combination. We’ve kept the same show stand location for a number of years - as have many other exhibitors - and this gives a great deal of familiarity to buyers.

“Having a show so early in the New Year does put a little pressure on ensuring that all the new samples have arrived, and then of course we’re working on the displays, but it’s exciting and rewarding when it all comes together.”

Over the past 12 months, Ben says various obstacles impacting the industry since the Covid pandemic have eased, with physical trade shows taking place once more in China.

Giftware Trading works with over 50 suppliers in Asia and the team is always sourcing new and unique avenues, as well as making sure it is completely on top of the latest product trends, so for Ben in particular the shows are key.

He explains: “It was great to be visiting the Far East once again after a few years’ absence and things appear to be getting back to some form of normality. It was nice to be able to ‘walk the aisles’ again rather than trawling through hundreds of photographs on a computer screen. However, my legs may tell another story!

“2023 was another hectic year for us. Thankfully shipping has become more stable in terms of service and price, which has been a welcome relief after the past few years.

“As we are all aware, times are still challenging, with mortgage rates currently at their highest level in 15 years. Despite these challenges, sales have been positive and customers appear to have been busy leading into Christmas.”

The team has been hard at work on the company’s Christmas collection since the last buying trip, and Harrogate is a great place to launch it. “The majority of the stand is dedicated to Christmas, but we will also show part of our Easter and Spring ranges, which gives buyers a glimpse of some of our other collections,” Ben reveals.

“Last year we showed a small selection of Halloween products for the first time and the reaction was fantastic, with many customers wishing to repeat on certain products. We have added more Halloween items for 2024 and these will complement some of the best-selling items from last year.

“Quite simply, there is much that is new and exciting from Giftware Trading - and we can’t wait to show it all off at Harrogate!”

Call: 0117 972 0506 Visit: www.giftwaretrading.co.uk

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HARROGATE CHRISTMAS & GIFT

THE CHRISTMAS WREATH:

celebrating the season indoors and outdoors Piers Croke of Gisela Graham London traces the history of this charming Christmas custom The wreath as a symbol dates from at least 500 BC in ancient Greece. It was a symbol of victory and glory. Winners of the original Olympic Games were awarded not silver cups, but their glory was crowned with a wreath of bay leaves.

Napoleon picked up the idea when he crowned himself Emperor of France – with a conqueror’s wreath – nothing so vulgar as a crown.

In the second century the wreath’s circular form was borrowed by early Christians in Europe as a representation of faith and eternal life. Three or four centuries ago Christmas wreaths brought a new layer of meaning to the old idea. Small wreaths originally served as Christmas tree ornaments in their own right, and not as the stand-alone decorations we are familiar with today. They were formed into a wheel-like shape, partially for convenience sake, as it was simpler to hang a circle onto the tree.

The material forming the wreath – the evergreen tree – was equally symbolic. Evergreen trees as a species were looked on with veneration as they survived the harshness of winter. The trees appear in abundance in northern and eastern Europe and people brought them into their homes. The evergreen was a symbol to them of the power and hope.

Centuries later hanging a wreath on the door, decorated with ribbons, was a sign of good cheer and welcomeness to visitors. We read of door wreaths as far back as the 14th century.

Five hundred years later a German Lutheran pastor is given credit for bringing the Christmas wreath indoors. He used the idea of setting an evergreen wreath on the table, decorated with four red candles, each lighted on the four Sundays of Advent climaxing in Christmas Day. The charming tradition of the Advent wreath was one of the many other Christmas traditions brought to us from northern Europe by German Prince Albert. It was he who introduced to us the Christmas tree laden with presents and decorations.

We’ve embraced these importations into their our own culture so profusely as to think them our own. Thank you Prince Albert.

Although in fairness it was the British who gave the world the Christmas card …

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Designed to inspire We Love Seasons Stand: Hall C, Stand C6

We Love Seasons has cornered the market when it comes to stand-out Scandi style. After exhibiting at Harrogate Christmas & Gift for the first time in 2023, founder and owner Malene Brondberg - who is firmly at the helm of the boutique brand’s design process - has been creating more pieces right across the range of festive and seasonal collections.

“I just wanted to make something very traditional and timeless,” she explains. “I’ve redesigned our Christmas bowls so they are now not just designed but also made in the UK. And I designed a metal crown, some Halloween pieces and other smaller pieces. In terms of colours, think white and gold, neutral tones and greens.”

Halloween is an important category for the brand and We Love Seasons will be taking many of its autumnal designs to Harrogate Christmas & Gift. This range showcases the brand’s use of natural materials, including felt and rope detail pumpkins.

“The minimalist look of our pieces is a real point of difference for us,” Malene says. “The feedback we’ve had from other recent shows has been that customers love our Scandinavian style with a contemporary edge and a mix of colourways.

“Harrogate was a really great show for us last year when we debuted there and we built relationships with many new customers. We’ve kept the same show stand for 2024, located amidst other beautiful brands.

“There’s nothing really like We Love Seasons at Christmas & Gift, and the way we style our show stand is distinct as well. People don’t just come to us for the collections, but also our styling ethos. Customers want to buy our key pieces that they can use again and again - that’s why we’re more of a lifestyle brand. Less is more with us to some extent!”

In addition to the seasonal and Halloween ranges, visitors to the We Love Seasons stand can look forward to seeing the Easter collection.

And as for the year ahead, Malene says it looks set to be one of real growth for this stunning Scandi-inspired brand. So watch this space!

Call: 07895 840887 Visit: www.weloveseasons.com

Dreaming of a ‘Bosk’ Christmas Norfolk Leisure Stand: Hall B, Stand B15

Over the past decade Norfolk Leisure has built an enviable reputation for being top of the trees Christmas ones, that is.

One of the leading distributors of garden furniture and accessories across the UK and Ireland, the company is also expert in artificial trees and decorative festive pieces. Its passion for bringing ‘unique flair’ to every outdoor space expands to interiors as well when it comes to Christmas.

And 2024 sees the launch of its new Christmas collection, entitled Bosk, which will be introduced to buyers at Harrogate Christmas & Gift. “We’ve noticed the increase in demand for high quality products,” says Norfolk Leisure director Debbie Waudby.

“Consumers want more from their tree, they want it to stand out from the rest and the current market doesn’t always offer that. The core values of our Bosk Christmas Collection are to create products that last a long time, are priced well, and of course, are topped with a good sprinkle of magic!”

This new range includes a collection of illuminated ornaments including glistening reindeer, novelty snowmen or a heap of sparkling presents. LED lights and multiple colours and sizes are available with all of them, suitable for indoor or outdoor use.

Another key part of the Bosk collection is a selection of high-quality artificial Christmas trees. All come packed with festive features, including Natural Touch Tips, and are available in multiple styles and sizes.

Call: 01553 811717 Visit: www.norfolkleisurelifestyle.com

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Christmas heritage,

festive innovation

PHOTOS: Messe Frankfurt Exhibition GmbH | Pietro Sutero

CHRISTMASWORLD

Built on centuries of festive trading, Christmasworld is a truly global celebration of seasonal joy. But, as show director Eva Olbrich tells Sarah Welsh, it’s also an event looking firmly to the future…

F

rankfurt ‘am Main’ – or if you prefer on the River Main – is one of Germany’s most important cities, managing to combine perhaps the country’s most impressive skyline with its beautiful old town quarter.

And that’s why there could be no more perfect setting for Christmasworld. This exhibition for seasonal and festive decorations sits firmly at the festive cutting edge when it comes to the latest trends and seasonal products, but is also an event that celebrates heritage and nostalgia.

Frankfurt has effectively been home to the fair for some 800 years. Once a bustling market for medieval goods, the city has evolved into a high-performance centre for global marketing and is the location for the world’s leading trade shows across consumer goods, textiles, architecture, technology and the automotive industry.

Frankfurt is also a very well-connected transport hub, and the Messe Frankfurt Exhibition Centre - home to Christmasworld - has its own subway and regional train stations that connect to Germany’s high-speed rail system via Frankfurt’s main station. So you can take public transport right into the heart of the fair.

Last year Christmasworld welcomed more than 500 exhibitors from 46 countries, and 2024 promises to deliver even more. There are seven seasonal product categories: Christmas & Seasonal Decoration, Candles, Ribbons & Wrapping, Florists’ Requisites & Garden Decorations, Visual Merchandising & Light, Global Sourcing, and Christmas Delights.

The latter celebrates all things festive food and drink and is presented in an atmospheric Christmas market area. And there’s also a wealth of trend information and an exciting programme of events for visitors.

We caught up with show director Eva Olbrich to get the inside track on what else to expect at the show.

Last year’s Christmasworld followed two years of closure due to Covid. You must have received amazing feedback?

We had an overwhelming uptake and tremendous international representation in 2023. It was an incredible comeback after the pandemic. Christmasworld, Ambiente and Creativeworld are now held together under the motto ‘Home of Consumer Goods’ and it’s a really successful, vast networking platform.

This new format is perfectly tailored to the needs of the trade. Exhibitors and visitors alike benefit from the synergies that we’ve created between the three events. The visibility of the fairs has significantly increased as a result; it facilitates even more business and the top-class support programme is just another reason to visit.

Christmasworld seems to perfectly combine the intimate atmosphere of a smaller trade show with an opportunity for buyers to place orders for multiple needs. How do you strike that balancing act?

Christmasworld is unique. With a modern approach and efficient product group management, which is reflected logistically in the floor plan, the fair manages not to lose its ‘strolling character’ despite the maximum product selection. Personal contact is a central focus of our planning.

What can you tell us about the product categories?

Visual Merchandising & Light is undeniably a USP of Christmasworld. With our international exhibitors we literally ‘light up’ emotions, and that’s why hall 4.0 is such a magnet for visitors. The comprehensive product range across categories will delight attendees. Last but not least is our incredible Global Sourcing segment. We’re going to have ‘everything Christmas’ virtually under one roof.

How many exhibitors and visitors do you expect from the UK? The UK is one of the top 10 countries when it comes to visitors, and we’re looking forward to welcoming a host of exhibitors from the UK across all relevant product segments. Exhibitors from the UK will benefit from access to exports on a global scale.

Anything else new for 2024?

A must-see is the DECORATION UNLIMITED presentation. It promises to surprise visitors by transforming the traditional setting of a green, red and gold Christmas into a luxurious, modern-green oasis. The big festive colour theme for the coming season is green. My advice is come and see for yourself. We’re looking forward to having you!

What: Christmasworld Where: Messe Frankfurt Exhibition Centre, Germany When: January 26-30 Web: christmasworld.messefrankfurt.com 24 Gifts Today

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Product Focus Christmas Gifts

Full of festive fun Season’s greetings House of Marbles House of Marbles has a selection of budgetfriendly toys, engaging family games and delightful books, making it the perfect choice for stocking fillers and grotto gifts.

Following the success of its sought-after Christmas collection over the past few years, the company has added a fun assortment of seasonal games that will bring lots of laughter and lasting memories throughout the festive period.

House of Marbles’ Christmas Characters game is a must-have for retailers looking for an exciting pastime that appeals to adults and children alike. An interactive game of luck, this Christmas version of the classic Beetle game is presented in a vibrant gift box that will capture attention in shop displays.

In addition to the entertaining array of games, you’ll find new Christmas Wooden Handbells showcased in a striking festive-themed counter display.

They boast a selection of delightful Christmas character designs, making them wonderful sensory gifts for the season.

Whether you’re an independent gift shop or garden centre, there’s a fantastic range of gifts at various price points to suit everyone, and carriage-paid orders start from just £200. Make sure you visit the House of Marbles website to stay up-to-date with new arrivals, so you can offer your customers the latest products from this best-selling range.

D & J Glassware

D & J Glassware is excited to be exhibiting at Harrogate Christmas & Gift after a break of four years, and is looking forward to welcoming customers old and new to its stand in Hall Q. The company will showcase its lovely range of seasonal glass including Snowman, Rudolf, Father Christmas, Polar Bears, Penguins and Guardian Angels.

Visitors will also be able to explore D & J Glassware’s festive fragrance collections, including the brand-new range of Christmas candles and wax melts - and not forgetting the ever popular Scented Pine Cones, Woodland Delight and Christmas Pot Pourri.

The full range of delightful fused glass animals, reed diffusers, Tree of Life and Friendship collections will also be on display.

Call: 01953 450280 Email: dandj.glassware@btinternet.com Visit: www.dandjglassware.co.uk

Call: 01626 835358 Email: uk@houseofmarbles.com Visit: www.houseofmarbles.com/tradeuk

’Twas the night Pawsome treats before W’ZIS Christmas Personalised Memento Company

Add a special touch to Christmas with this adorable Christmas Eve Tiny Tatty Teddy Large Wooden Keepsake Box from PMC. Fill it with special treats for Christmas Eve and once the occasion has passed, it can be used to store all of the keepsakes from baby’s special first Christmas.

The Box is part of PMC’s new Tiny Tatty Teddy range, which includes a large variety of products from sacks and stockings to baubles and wooden decorations.

Check out PMC’s website to see its full range of Christmas gifts and to find out how the company could help you to sell from its huge range of dropship personalised gifts.

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

W’ZIS is a range of dog treats that make a unique Christmas present for pooches and owners alike. These plant-based, 100% natural morsels - shaped, licked and sniffed all the way from Brighton - are made from sweet potato flour and are only 1 calorie per treat. Available in three dog-approved flavours of Postman & Roast, Slipper & Biscuit, and Lamp Post & Chips, their firm and angular shape makes for a satisfyingly superior chew. The treats are presented in colourful tins that are designed to be refilled and reused.

Call: 01273 044515 Email: hello@wzis.dog Visit: www.wzis.dog

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OPINION

Diary of a gift shop Jo Williams, owner/director of multi-award-winning gift shop Joco in Nuneaton, reflects on Christmas trading and looks forward to a fresh look and feel for her store in 2024

W

e had a few wonderful weeks towards the end of 2023 and enjoyed an increase in footfall for the first time since our relocation back to Queen’s Road in Nuneaton, where we originally launched back in 2015.

This was helped massively by various campaigns run to promote independent retailers, including Small Business Saturday on December 2 and Love Your High Street Week (organised by Bira) from November 13 to November 19.

We also opened later in the run-up to Christmas, and opened on Sundays to help our customers when they headed out to support the shops in our town.

We hear so much about how online shopping is more convenient. However, there’s been a steep increase in missing or broken parcels - which helps shops such as ours, because customers rush in to snap up replacements of items which they worry will arrive damaged, or too late, or not at all.

We pride ourselves on giving our customers the best service possible and helping them find the ideal gift or home accessory. But on the occasion we can’t help, we direct them to other independent shops in the area, rather than saying the dreaded phrase of “look online”.

This year is set to bring many changes for Joco, as the shop is undergoing a makeover. We have new display stands, the whole store is being redecorated, the showrooms are taking on a new feel, and we are also making alterations to the ranges that we stock.

It’s often hard for independent retailers to compete with national chains, due to their buying power and marketing, so it’s a case of having to think quickly to

adapt and bring customers the products they want, but which aren’t already stocked elsewhere.

To achieve this, we have started to reintroduce more exclusive brands, which can’t be stocked locally - and this also helps bring customers in from further afield. We are now a proud stockist of Charlie Bears and Steiff, which proved incredibly popular in the final weeks of 2023.

So as we head into 2024, the shop will begin to take on its fresh look. New products will include more occasional pieces of furniture and home accessories.

Plans for the multistorey car park opposite us are still with the local planning department and we are facing potentially another 12 to 18 months without customers browsing at this end of the town. Being creative, and bringing customers something different, is what we believe will save us until footfall returns when the car park is rebuilt.

We have launched a brand-new website under Joco Interiors for all our furniture and home accessories, alongside a second site (currently under construction) which will feature all our gift ranges.

The decision to do this was made following our social media accounts being hacked. We had to create new pages on Facebook and Instagram. Despite the incredible inconvenience this caused, we have continued to fight back against all the odds, as we lost eight years’ worth of work on Instagram and have limited access to Facebook.

I can only advise readers to ensure they have the security system Two-factor authentication (2FA) set up - and be extremely careful, as hackers can still get around this. Even now, I have notifications that they are continuing to try and gain access to my accounts, as I have alerts coming through to my phone!

“This year is set to bring many changes for Joco, as the shop is undergoing a makeover”

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OPINION

The word on the street...

Maybugs co-owner Greg Rose is back to dish the dirt on what’s hot, what’s dropped and what’s new at his three-strong gift shop chain in East Sussex

W

elcome everyone to 2024!

I hope you all had a very happy and successful Christmas. With the New Year comes new beginnings, so we need to shift some of our older stock for new products… It’s Sale Time!

Christmas seemed to start so late, and the wet weather in November had a huge impact - especially for us at our coastal sites. But as we approached December, the drier days and crisper weather really kicked the festivities off.

We don’t shy away from taking risks, and we took a gamble last year and decided to extend our calendar and diary collection in our two larger stores, with a spinner from Otter House including Cliff Richard and Elvis (yes, really!). This worked surprisingly well, with sales growth in the category of 39%. Despite lots of the titles being available elsewhere on the High Street, we still sold out.

What’s Hot?

As you’d expect with everything Christmas related, there’s always something left over, and it’s best to reduce and turn it back into cash, so you can then buy something new.

We decided once again to close on Boxing Day to enable our staff to have two consecutive days off, and our Sale kicked off on December 27.

Our core range of decorations struggled to sell last year. Baubles, tinsel and light-up products were much slower than expected. My initial thought for Christmas 2024 is to move away from decorations completely and focus more on gifts, just like the old days!

Our number one seller in December was a range of Dog Toys from History & Heraldry. Shaped like a bone and filled with a squeaker, these personalised gifts flew off the shelves. Lots of lucky pups had a lovely surprise in their doggy stockings.

Another success story was the Honey Trio Set by the Edinburgh Honey Co.. We’ve only just started trading with them, having discovered them at Home & Gift in Harrogate, but their fabulous festive gift set was a hit. We sold out of the individual honey jars too. Who’s not going to love gingerbread spiced honey made by Scottish bees?

What’s Not?

What’s New? We have a gorgeous range of dried flowers from Widdop & Co. which we trialled in our Eastbourne store over the festive season and are now rolling out to the other two branches.

Also, we are launching our own-brand Maybugs candles. From local producer The Bourne Candle, these fabulously scented wax lovelies aren’t cheap, but the quality and local message is amazing.

In fact, The Bourne Candle was one of the traders in our Artisan Market, which took place back last July. They were so successful, and we loved the product so much, that we have developed this range with them.

There always isn’t much new in January, but Spring Fair is just around the corner and we are ready to spend, spend, spend!

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Julie Dachey and John Hayden

RETAIL INTERVIEW

Gifts with Presence

“A point of

difference”

Gifts with Presence’s mission is ‘to take product to where the people are’. Buyer Julie Dachey discusses the company’s concept and growth plans with Clare Turner

What’s your background?

I’ve been in retail in numerous roles for 48 years, from being an assistant in Dixons at the age of 16 to a buyer and marketing manager for the Owen Owen/Lewis’s Group, and most recently a gift buyer and marketing manager for Brookfields Garden Centre in Nottingham.

Why did you decide to move into gift retailing?

Having worked in many sectors, the opportunity

Top 5 Best Sellers 1. Henry & Co wax melts 2. Ashleigh & Burwood fragrance lamps 3. Cheshire Cheese Company range 4. Best Kept Secrets candles 5. The English Soap Company Kew range

came up to apply for the position in a great local garden centre and I jumped at the chance. I was charged with broadening the range of product and putting a marketing plan together to attract a wider audience.

Whoever thought when I first started working at the photo processing desk in Dixons, that I would be on first-name terms with Santa and a bunch of elves?!

The word ‘experience’ in retail has been used widely over recent years, and my role allowed me to embrace buying the right product for our customer profile, and offer events and activities to create memories.

cookery clubs and so on. Just shopping is not always enough.

Our mission is ‘to take product to where the people are’. This will continue to be corporate private functions and pop ups in key locations, but my arrival has seen the move into private shopping events.

Tell us about Gifts with Presence.

I’ve been consulting on the Gifts with Presence concept from its early days, happy to offer support and advice. John Hayden - the driver for the business - is an ex-colleague and dear friend. The company has been taking products to corporate events and local craft and artisan activities in great locations around the country.

I joined John last summer to develop the brand and concept, as we both see the opportunity to extend our reach. Consumers are hungry for events and a sense of being ‘in the moment’ to share with others, as evidenced by the myriad chances to pick sunflowers, pumpkins, join gardening and

We offer curated seasonal collections of products which are set up and beautifully displayed in locations from people’s homes or venues for any occasion, from bridal showers to gourmet events.

The products are demonstrated, and there are food tastings and interaction with an activity to maximise the experience. We have recently been approached by charities that like our formula and are keen to be involved, so that’s another sector we will be working with.

Shopping, maybe a glass of something, time spent with friends and family - as well as interaction with great products - what’s not to love? The possibilities are infinite!

“Consumers are hungry for events and a sense of being ‘in the moment’ to share with others”

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Our inaugural private shopping event featured a cocktail delivery service called Cocktail Bar in a Jar which pops up in various places and creates homemade cocktails that are sold as beautifully presented gifts. Of course there was the opportunity to sip as well as sample the food ranges I offered!

Another event involved a holistic therapist who offered treatments while using items from Skin Solace: a local producer and retailer of candles and beauty products. The proprietor Natelee Onyeche was also present to talk about her product and process.

Food tasting plays an important role in our events due to the interaction, and I was delighted to offer Single Variety Co. preserves, Cornish Charcuterie fare, and other food paired with a glass of fizz. It was so rewarding having three businesses all complementing each other, creating a great ambience and experience.

To date the most spectacular location for our presentation was the Christmas Emporium at The Shard in London: an amazing setting and opportunity to offer fabulous product in one of the world’s most iconic buildings.

Tell us about your range.

We are initially working with home fragrance and beauty products and adding tasting events of fabulous food ranges from less widely distributed suppliers to offer a point of difference.

Our key suppliers are Ashleigh & Burwood, Best Kept Secrets, Henry & Co, Single Variety Co., and the Cheshire Cheese Company, with many more to come. The quest for ‘that something new’ is constant and I look everywhere.

How do you find products?

Through trade shows (Spring Fair, Autumn Fair, Home & Gift, and the Farm Shop & Deli Show), the consumer and industry press, and contact with agents and companies that I’ve worked with before.

What’s your selection criteria?

Product needs to have a story behind it, and an ethos that fits in with our strategy of creating events to match customers’ lifestyles and interests.

What’s proving popular?

Home fragrance has been at the heart of the

company since its beginnings. The current ranges are from well-known brands and we will continue to offer those in the larger locations that John visits.

But we have complete conviction that the gift food category is going to be very strong at the smaller private events. We will continue to work with local retailers to run combined workshops and activities.

What’s next for Gifts with Presence?

You catch us as this latest branch of the business emerges and we very much feel that this is where the growth will come from. Suppliers could look at this as another route to market in a well-managed way - and we have many lined up ready to work with us. Gifts Today will be the first to hear about it as it does!

Are you looking at expanding into new product categories?

Absolutely. Our aim is to offer satisfied customers the chance to book further events with different products so they can come back time and again.

Jewellery and fashion accessories are being considered in the Spring, working in conjunction with a supplier of exquisite leather goods.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of your job?

I’ve always loved buying, and during my 13 years at Brookfields it was so rewarding building our seasonal events - from Santa in a smartenedup shed to having a large enough Grotto that attracted thousands of people while we raised money for local charities. It was humbling to see the love generated by offering families special time together. The thought of bringing fabulous products together with memory-making fills me with joy!

“The quest for ‘that something new’ is constant and I look everywhere” How do you get the word out there?

For corporate events, we send out a newsletter (and a flyer in some cases) which is used on the company’s communications. I send information to the centres that John sets up at, and we are then featured on their websites and socials. We also feature on local community group Facebook pages.

The shopping events will create myriad Instagram and other social media platform opportunities and develop our following, which is still in its very early stages. These very individual activities will be the driver for communicating our message; our campaign will be focused on networking our offer via the people who attend.

This year will see us building up our base of contacts, and we hope to work with event planners to expand our programme as we grow.

Our new website will be launched and will be a true reflection of what our brand actually represents.

Essentially, we have got to do what we do brilliantly. So the recommendations will drive us in the direction we are aiming for.

And the most challenging?

John and I are like a commercial marriage; he has always said “you make the bullets and I fire them”.

So it’s a great deal of work but we are a fine team together, and the challenges shared are not faced alone.

What’s your favourite gift on your ‘virtual’ shelf?

Without seeming to avoid the question, every product is my favourite when I buy it! My family hates buying for me and shopping with me, because I recognise everything and tell them who the supplier is, and often what the cost price was!

What advice would you give to someone starting out in gift retailing?

To paraphrase the famous Bette Davis quote: “Retail ain’t no place for sissies.”

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Cover Story...

Henry & Co.

Reflecting on a year

with Henry & Co. Making its debut at Spring Fair 2023, Henry & Co. has emerged as a powerhouse in the home fragrance sector across the UK - and will mark its one-year anniversary with increased stand space at Spring Fair 2024. Managing director Mark Rees and creative director Jo Ashton discuss the company’s amazing growth story Creative director Jo Ashton and managing director Mark Rees

S

ince the beginning, Henry & Co. has made a mark on the home fragrance market, and now boasts a network of hundreds of retailers in the UK, from independent stores to large garden centre groups.

The brand’s success is attributed to alliances with key industry experts in marketing and PR but most importantly, a dedicated team of seasoned sales agents which continues to grow.

The agents - and their contacts in each of their sales territories - are fundamental to the way the brand is received and managed in each shop. These retailers have become the showrooms of the brand, attracting new consumers and, more importantly, encouraging repeat purchases.

At the heart of Henry & Co.’s offering lies its flagship product: the Wax Melts. From single formats to twin packs and six packs, the hand-poured, ecofriendly brand has captivated consumers.

For those seeking variety, the cost-effective Discovery Gift Set provides an extensive selection

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of everyday fragrances: 20 Wax Melts for just £20, allowing consumers an introduction to the brand.

The Artisan Wax Melts take the brand’s product innovation a step further. Each fragrance is handpoured with biodegradable decorations relevant to each scent, such as petals for Forever & Always, coffee beans for Espresso Martini, and glitter for Red Raspberry and White Christmas. Sold in sets of nine with tastefully designed packaging, the Artisan Wax Melts are a consistent best-seller for the brand.

Breaking new ground in the wax melt market is the Artisan Wax Melt Bar - a new concept resembling a chocolate bar crafted from wax.

Designed by Henry & Co. creative director Jo Ashton, this innovative product allows consumers to control the fragrance intensity by breaking off whatever sized chunks of wax they require, depending on the fragrance intensity desired in their homes.

With aesthetic appeal and gift-worthy packaging, the Artisan Wax Melt Bar is set to be a hit with retailers at Spring Fair, along with exciting new fragrances for Spring/Summer 24, and new innovative concepts and gift options for the Christmas season ahead.

One new gift set making its debut at Spring Fair is the new Wax Melt Gift Set. Teamed with a Classic Melt Burner, the set includes four Wax Melts, making the perfect gift solution with an attractive price point.

The fragrance offering at Henry & Co. continues to evolve, combining classics such as Lemongrass & Ginger and Fresh Linen with newcomers including Fresh Daisies, and Earl Grey & Bergamot.

Plus, in response to consumer demand, a unique

“At the heart of Henry & Co.’s offering lies its flagship product: the Wax Melts. From single formats to twin packs and six packs, the handpoured, eco-friendly brand has captivated consumers”

Vanilla blend is launching in 2024 in the Everyday collection and is set to become one the most loved scents and a quick best-seller.

Along with Wax Melts at the core of the range, Henry & Co. also has Candles, Wax Melt Burners, Reed Diffusers and Reed Diffuser Refills - and many Gift Set options Looking ahead, the future for Henry & Co. shines bright, with plans to continue to build on its solid foundations across the UK with increased retailers, continued product innovation and a growing team. Will you join the journey?

Call: 0333 1882006 Email: orders@henryandcompany.co.uk Visit: www.henryandcofragrance.co.uk Spring Fair: Hall 4, Stand 4D72 - E73

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Product Focus Candles

Coastal vibes D & J Glassware

An indoor

oasis Enesco

Contemporary gift supplier Enesco invites you to find an oasis at home this spring with the new Yankee Candle S/S24 collection: Under the Desert Sun. Launching this month, your customers can cheer up their homes with aromas that exude memories of warmer days and summer fun. There are a number of refreshingly light and bright fragrances including Desert Blooms, Aloe & Agave, Sweet Vanilla & Horchata, and Stargazing.

Inspired by the unique beauty of the desert, the new collection has been designed to help escape the ordinary and satisfy wanderlust, immersing the home in sun-drenched scents.

Under The Desert Sun features exotic fragrances such as saguaro cactus, aloe and blue lotus, as well as soothing lavender and eucalyptus.

The range is available in a selection of sizes in the new Signature designs, including large and medium jars,wax melts and, coming soon, mini filled votives.

The hero fragrance, Desert Blooms, is also available in the large and small tumbler.

D & J Glassware is delighted to announce the launch of its new brand: Waxham Candle Company. Taking its name from a village on the Norfolk coast, the brand’s soy wax candles and melts are hand-poured in small batches in the heart of the county. There are 12 fragrances to choose from, offering something for all tastes.

The recyclable tins are decorated with colourful designs, some of which are inspired

by D & J Glassware’s fused glass animals. Bespoke labelling is possible for tailoring a range that is unique to the retailer or visitor attraction.

Call D & J Glassware’s co-founders David Roznowski and Jocelyne Royou-Roznowski for further details.

Call: 01953 450280 Email: dandj.glassware@btinternet.com Visit: www.dandjglassware.co.uk

Call: 01228 404022 Email: uksales@enesco.co.uk Visit: www.enesco.co.uk

A warm glow Personalised Memento Company

Personalised Memento Company has a large selection of personalised candles that make great gifts for all occasions. This beautiful floral candle is a perfect present for Mother’s Day, which can be easily adapted with your own heartfelt personalised message, whether that be for your mum, grandma or mother-figure.

The Personalised Especially For You Mother’s Day Large Scented Jar Candle is available in a range of different designs, so there is sure to be a suitable one for your recipient.

With a growing range of on-trend giftware and selling solutions to suit all retailers, there has never been a better time to sell personalised gifts. Visit PMC’s trade website today to register for your account and get started.

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

Spring is in the air Henry & Co.

Henry & Co. brings you its Spring Collection launch for 2024. With the hope of springtime, consumers look to floral, fresh fragrances as the brighter days come and the sun starts to shine.

New Spring Flowers captures the scent of spring flowers and hints of natural patchouli, teamed with white cedar. This fragrance offers a revitalising and uplifting experience that leaves you feeling invigorated and totally refreshed.

Fresh Daisies is a light fragrance that encapsulates the scent of a bouquet of daisies: perfect for crisp spring days.

Teaming floral and fruit scents is Pear & White Freesia. It has a hint of the honey sweetness of this climbing floral. And with a base of rhubarb, subtle patchouli aromas and sweet fresh green pears, it’s a perfect fragrance combination.

Finally, English teatime wouldn’t be the same without a cup of Earl Grey - and Earl Grey & Bergamot captures the unmistakable aroma of the black tea blend, teamed with bergamot, jasmine and citruses.

Henry & Co. takes pride in crafting high-quality wax products in wax melts, candles, reed diffusers and oils - each handmade in the UK using natural products.

Call: 0333 1882006 Email: orders@henryandcompany.co.uk Visit: www.henryandcofragrance.co.uk

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Shine on...

A stitch in time Joe Davies

Meet the bag trend that works for both parties and the beach, and embrace the craft core look with this pretty collection of Equilibrium crochet style totes and handbags from Joe Davies.

These fun crocheted bags are the perfect choice for warm weather as they are lightweight, and come in a selection of neutral and playful colours which will go well with your light and breezy summer look!

Joe Davies has a reputation for awardwinning customer service and a great range of gifts, jewellery and fashion accessories dedicated to the independent retailer. All products are available in its trademark ‘little and often’ quantities, with a minimum order value of just £100 and free nationwide delivery.

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

instyle

Sea Gems

Sea Gems is a family-run jewellery company with more than 40 years of design heritage and experience, which has created brand-new collections for S/S24. Designed in Cornwall, the supplier has crafted silver jewellery and gift collections that capture the essence of its iconic landscape and Celtic heritage.

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

The Celtic Lands silver collection celebrates Sea Gems’ heritage with stunning and elaborate knotwork. New designs give a fresh look to this already successful brand.

The art of fine enamelling creates truly unique jewellery and gifts in the firm’s Mackintosh, Celtic and nature ranges. Gift ranges include pens, bookmarks, compact mirrors, pillboxes, and scarf-rings.

Call: 01736 335840 Email: sales@seagems.co.uk Visit: www.seagems.co.uk

To the Eyes

beach right Opticaid UK

Opticaid UK is excited to launch its 2024 range this month. Building on the successes of 2023, its collection of contemporary reading glasses and sunglasses continues to expand with extra recycled frames - all sold under the brand name of Remaldi, which is synonymous with quality designled eyewear at great value.

The reading glasses and sunnies are made from recycled plastics such as drinks bottles and even car headlight surrounds! The plastics are cleaned and shredded into pellets, then coloured and injected to create new frames. The resulting modified polycarbonate frames are tough, heat-resistant and lightweight: a win-win for eyewear.

Popular reader styles so far are the geometric-shaped Orleans, Bourne blue, and grey tortoise, and the large square frame Henley which comes in four colours. Geometric-shaped frames are very on trend, particularly for sunglasses, with styles Lexie Stripe and Casey Bark and Sage, and Gerry in three colours.

All Remaldi reading glasses and UV400 sunglasses come with a quality branded slip-in case.

For product enquiries and a copy of Opticaid’s 2024 catalogue, please contact the team.

Call: 0113 239 1400 Email: sales@opticaid.net Visit: www.opticaid.net

INStyle.indd 1

Tawul Living

Tawul Living is a lifestyle brand founded

by British artist Freya H in 2022. Her first collection of cotton beach, bath and pool towels is designed to amplify the small moments in life, whether on the move or during daily rituals.

The towels are designed in London and made in Portugal, using 100% GOTS organic cotton in a thick 600gsm terry weave and a medium sized loop pile for maximum absorbency and durability. They come in fully compostable PLA poly bags, and recyclable mailer bags.

Inspired by endangered species in the UK, the collection is themed around insects, with a Bilberry Bumblebee (pictured), and a Garden Tiger Moth for the beach and pool, and two ‘classic’ styles for the home. The design is reminiscent of vintage matchboxes, giving the products a unique and nostalgic feel.

Tawul Living Is a member of Ecologi (with 117 trees and 18 projects funded to date) and 1% for the Planet.

Email: hello@tawulliving.com Visit: www.tawulliving.com

21/12/2023 11:03

Product Focus Female & Mother’s Day Gifts

Some for the ladies

Mother’s Day is a key event in the gifting calendar - this year it falls on Sunday March 10. It’s a celebration honouring mums, mother-figures, and maternal bonds. But there are also plenty of other opportunities for your customers to show appreciation to the women and girls in their lives. So plan ahead to offer a wonderful range of treats to keep the ladies happy

Floral tribute Henry & Co.

Typically, flowers are the go-to gift for Mother’s Day, so Henry & Co. has captured the fresh scent of springtime daisies to make the fragrance experience last longer.

Fresh Daisies is a light fragrance encapsulating the scent of a bouquet of daisies. Available in wax melts, reed diffusers, and a single wick candle, this fragrance is the perfect gift for mum.

Henry & Co. takes pride in crafting high-quality, hand-poured wax products in wax melts, candles, reed diffusers, and oils - each crafted in the UK using natural products.

Call: 0333 1882006 Email: orders@henryandcompany.co.uk Visit: www.henryandcofragrance.co.uk

Blooming lovely!

Exacompta Clairefontaine

Celebrate Mother’s Day with the Origami Bunch of Flowers Kit: an exquisite gift intertwining creativity and sentiment. This kit empowers mums to craft a timeless bouquet while practising the art of origami, with each delicate petal expressing the enduring beauty of your appreciation.

The kit contains everything needed to create a thoughtful and personal gift, including 60 sheets of premium 70gsm origami paper, adhesive tape, glue, wires, wooden beads and an instructions guide.

Call: 01553 696600 Email:sales@exaclair.co.uk Visit: www.exaclairlimited.com

Dainty delights Gold Trip

Just in time for Mother’s Day, demi-fine jewellery brand Gold Trip has a dainty heart-themed jewellery collection to fit the theme.

Crafted from hallmarked 925 sterling silver with an option in PVD-plated waterproof 18ct gold, the Hearts Satellite range comes as a necklace, bracelet and anklet. The brand also has a range of heart-shaped earrings which complete the look.

Gold Trip specialises in contemporary and fine demi-fine jewellery that can be worn alone for a subtle look, or layered alongside other pieces for a statement. Each piece comes in recycled and luxury presentation boxes, ready for gifting.

Call: 07946 610 110 Email: hello@goldtrip.co Visit: www.goldtrip.co

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Mother’s Day A Little Bracelets From RRP £17.99 6999, 6863

Mother’s Day A Little Bracelet, If Mums Were Flowers I’d Pick You RRP £17.99 6862

TH E PER FE C T MOT H ER ’S DAY G I F T S Zana Mini Crossbody Bag,

Mother’s Day From The Heart Gift Box,

Light Taupe

Love You Mum

RRP £39.99

RRP £18.99

KLB3247

6962

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Product Focus Female & Mother’s Day Gifts

Sweet statements Joma Jewellery

Something

special Joe Davies

The Equilibrium Sentiment Jewellery collection from Joe Davies has the perfect Mother’s Day gift. There is always something special about giving a piece of jewellery to your mum on her special day, and the addition of a heartfelt message on the actual piece makes it all the more meaningful.

Equilibrium jewellery is plated in real silver and gold and comes packaged in beautiful foiled gift boxes, making it a great way to express love and appreciation on Mother’s Day. Ordering from Joe Davies couldn’t be easier with its signature ‘little and often’ ordering system, and low minimum order value of just £100 for carriage paid orders.

With a brand-new collection that pairs style with sweetness, help your customers celebrate this Mother’s Day with new pieces from Joma Jewellery.

When it comes to jewellery, classic designs never go out of style, which is why a selection of brand-new Grandparent A Littles is joining the brand’s ever-popular heartfelt Mother’s Day A Little Bracelets and Necklaces.

These will make a truly radiant addition to your store - and each lucky recipient’s wrist stack, acting as a firm reminder of the love they have received.

Help customers ensure each Mother’s Day gifting moment is cherished forever with Joma Jewellery’s selection of boxed gifts, including the Life’s A Charm Bracelets and brand-new From The Heart Gift Boxes.

You could even add a little jewel-studded elegance to your display with the new Love From Your Little Ones Collection: a selection of silver-plated and gold-plated clasp chain pieces, complete with twinkling pendants, designed to be gifted to lovely mums on behalf of their little ones.

Gorgeous mums deserve timeless jewellery - and nothing says timeless like Joma Jewellery’s just-launched Sterling Silver 925 Collection. These everlasting pieces will make the sweetest statement in-store, and will arrive to your customer in a ribbon-tied box, ready to gift.

Call: 01295 263430 Email: enquiries@jomajewellery.com Visit: wholesale.jomajewellery.com

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

Mum’s the word Lesser & Pavey

Lesser & Pavey will launch a delightful range at Spring Fair, featuring illustrations by British artist Jennifer Rose, themed ‘Mum you mean the world to me’.

The range features a fine china mug, tea for one, mug-coaster-tray gift set, wooden sentiment plaques, wine glasses, a vase, a scented candle, and a diffuser. Premium packaging means this range will be an eye-catcher on the shelf.

Pearlicious

Call: 01322 279225 Email: sales@leonardo.co.uk Visit: www.leonardo.co.uk

Scream Pretty

Scream Pretty brings perfectly pearlescent gifts to its Mother’s Day collection this year. Known for its playful take on seasonal trends, the brand’s collections of 925 recycled sterling silver and gold-plated recycled sterling silver jewellery are curated to be worn individually or stacked up for high-octane style.

Drawing on enchanting vintage aesthetics, its Vintage Hand & Pearls, Pearl Drop Studs, Ear Climbers, Pearl Trinity Huggies and statement Baroque Pearls offer effortless gifting options for Mother’s Day. Wear individually for a classically chic statement, or layer as an ear party or neck mess for a touch of sass.

Call: 01753 424160 Email: trade@screampretty.com Visit: www.screampretty.com 36 Gifts Today

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Colour up!

Miss Milly

Captivating collection Katie Loxton

Always a key trading period, Katie Loxton’s latest Mother’s Day Collection shines a spotlight on completely giftable styles, designed to be adored by every mum and mother-figure. This captivating range promises to steal the spotlight in-store and create an unforgettable moment for your customers.

There is an extended range of sentiment pouches featuring even more heartfelt sentiments and a sleek tapered silhouette, along with chic printed scarves and beautiful boxed gifts in a timeless palette of Light Taupe, Nude Pink, and Mink - all complemented by a stand-out Blossom Print, designed exclusively for the brand’s Mother’s Day Collection packaging.

What’s more, Katie Loxton’s Home Fragrance Collection features an elevated look and feel this season, with elegant, stepped glass jars on its candles and reed diffusers, and a brand-new Ceramic Hanging Diffuser - predicted to be a best-seller.

Even the brand’s much-loved Porcelain Mugs have received a makeover, adopting a new rounded shape to infuse a touch of style into your customers’ everyday moments. Each piece will arrive wrapped and ready to gift in one of Katie Loxton’s iconic gift bags, making the presentation just as luxurious as the presents within.

Miss Milly jewellery comes in such a wide variety of colours and styles that you’ll be able to stock a range which offers something to suit all mums, from pastel to tropical tones.

And teaming the brand’s jewellery with a complementary (or clashing) scarf creates a thoughtful gift offering - as well as a striking in-store display and increased average transaction value.

For youngsters buying a gift, what about a colourful, fun keyring that could go everywhere with mum? Miss Milly has almost a full zoo of animal and bird designs, from cows and cats to geckos and giraffes, and some with fluffy pom poms.

Plus, its magnetic brooches are great for moving between clothing, bags, hats and scarves - and with no fiddly pins or clasps, they’re perfect for older mums or those with dexterity issues. Hugely popular, they are available in a wide range of styles and colours, from ocean-inspired tones to owls and cats.

Call: 01905 622509 Email: hello@missmilly.co.uk Visit: www.missmilly.co.uk

Call: 01295 250879 Email: enquiries@katieloxton.com Visit: wholesale.katieloxton.com

Pretty and Time to relax purposeful Mad Beauty

This Mother’s Day, Mad Beauty is championing the gift of relaxation with its brand-new Disney Winnie the Pooh inspired bubble bath, presented in a charming honeycomb-shaped bottle that adds a touch of magic to bath time routines.

The honey dipper lid allows you to drizzle a drop or two of this wildflower fragranced formula into a warm running bath, providing the perfect invitation to sit back, relax and enjoy some well-deserved ‘me time’.

Call: 0208 958 0555 Email: sales@madbeauty.com Visit: madbeauty.com

Summersdale Publishers

Everyone knows that mums are amazing - what they don’t know is that you have the best one! A beautiful alternative gift for your mum that she can use again and again, For the Best Mum Ever is a collection of 52 cards, which can be displayed using the handy wooden stand provided. It contains a raft of heartwarming quotes and thoughtful words celebrating the miracle that is a mother.

Calm Cards for Mums is a box of cards that provides little reminders and bitesized advice for mums of children of any age, who lead busy lives and need to instil moments of calm into their routines. It includes a deck of 52 cards (with a wooden stand to display any one card at a time) and a 16-page mini booklet which serves as a brief user’s guide, with advice on how to best use the box and tips on incorporating calm into one’s life. It’s the perfect gift for Mother’s Day, as it’s both useful and beautiful.

Call: 01243 771107 Email: sales@summersdale.com Visit: www.summersdale.com

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Product Focus Female & Mother’s Day Gifts.indd 3

21/12/2023 11:05

Focus On...

Signare

Woven tapestry wonders Cindy Qiu, founder and director of Signare Tapestry, chats to Gifts Today about her goal of bringing traditional woven tapestry accessories into people’s day-to-day lives Tell us about Signare.

With a great passion for Western culture and arts, I’m fascinated with the tapestry wall hangings which can be found in many palaces, castles, and heritage buildings. In 2010, I founded the Signare brand to bring traditional woven tapestry accessories into people’s dayto-day lives.

Signare is renowned for its exquisite collection of fashion and lifestyle products featuring unique and vibrant tapestry designs.

From bags and accessories to home decor items, Signare offers a distinctive fusion of traditional and contemporary styles. The brand name Signare (SIN-A-RAE) is derived from the Latin word ‘Signare’ meaning Signature.

What sets Signare apart from other tapestry suppliers?

Licensing and innovation. Signare stands out for its owned signature tapestry designs that celebrate heritage and culture. I’m also proud of our licensing partnerships with the V&A (Victoria and Albert) Museum, Beatrix Potter, Paddington Bear, and The British Museum - we currently hold 10-plus licences from world-famous museums, galleries, and characters.

With offices and warehouses in the UK and

US, supplying over 2,000 trade customers globally, we proudly claim the title of the largest woven tapestry accessories brand in the world.

What types of products does Signare offer?

Signare offers a diverse range of woven tapestry products including handbags, backpacks, wallets, cushions, and other accessories such as licensed umbrellas, scarves, and home decor.

Each product showcases the brand’s unique tapestry patterns inspired by art, nature and cultural motifs. Our products are stocked in our UK (Surrey) and US (LA) warehouses, providing a fast and secure way for customers to receive orders as soon as possible.

Does Signare have any upcoming releases or special collections?

We are currently working on some very interesting ranges including the launch of two patterns licensed with The British Museum - Chinoiserie and Egyptian - a new colourway for our bestselling Paddington Bear, and a new Peter Rabbit range featuring Peter’s Tour In London. In addition to a very classic pattern that we are excited to bring together with the V&A, these new products will be showcased at Top Drawer, Maison&Objet, and Spring Fair.

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We have so many projects underway to make 2024 quite exciting for us. We also launched a new trade website last year; you can subscribe to the brand’s newsletter on the official website. This ensures that you will be among the first to know about new additions to the Signare product line.

Are there any notable bespoke projects that Signare has undertaken?

Signare has spearheaded bespoke projects for esteemed entities such as Harrods, The Royal British Legion, and more. These ventures exemplify our unwavering commitment to crafting unique tapestry pieces for prestigious organisations.

A standout project involves a collection for Westminster Abbey, marking a historic moment as we introduce the full portrait of a legendary Gothic architect into woven tapestry for the first time. Stay tuned as these exquisite pieces become available in the Westminster Abbey shop.

Further emphasising our bespoke expertise, Signare has been appointed as

“The future holds exciting possibilities, with continued collaborations, new releases, and innovative designs” the supplier for the woven tapestry products range at Schönbrunn Palace in Austria. Collaborating with its product designing team, we’re set to unveil a new range in March featuring one of the government’s owned intellectual property patterns. This groundbreaking initiative marks the first time such a pattern has been utilised, and these durable products are designed to stand the test of time, becoming available in gift shops.

Currently, we’re immersed in a bespoke tapestry design project with St. George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle. Drawing inspiration from the Gilebertus Door at St. George’s Chapel, which has stood since the mid-13th century, we take pride in bringing this heritage design element to life in vibrant tapestry for the first time in history.

Simultaneously, our creative efforts extend to Hever Castle & Gardens, where we are developing a new tapestry pattern inspired by Anne Boleyn’s Book of Hours. This project signifies our ongoing dedication to weaving history and art into captivating tapestry designs.

Who are your key clients, and what markets does the brand focus on?

Key clients include garden centres, gift shops, British-themed retail stores, catalogue shops, ladies’ fashion stores, and museum shops. Signare primarily focuses on the UK, Europe, and the US markets - and we’re also very strong in Japan.

Can you share Signare’s recognition in the industry?

Signare was nominated for the Gift of The Year Awards in 2020 and 2021.

Furthermore, our Paddington Bear licensing range was a finalist in The Licensing Awards 2023’s best licensed adult apparel or accessories range category.

Quite a number of customers have been with us for more than 10 years such as Museum Selection, Westminster Abbey Shop, and The Royal British Legion.

Are Signare products eco-friendly?

Yes, Signare is committed to sustainability. The brand uses eco-friendly materials in its products and follows ethical manufacturing practices. This commitment reflects Signare’s dedication to both style and environmental responsibility. All our woven fabric is made from eco-dyeing yarn, and our woven tapestry fabric and PU leather are 100% recyclable.

How can customers stay updated on Signare’s collaborations and new releases?

To stay in the loop with Signare’s latest collaborations, releases, and promotions, customers can follow updates on our website and social media channels - or join our newsletter for exclusive insights into our vibrant tapestry world. And please do find us at Top Drawer (Stand G37), Maison&Objet (Smart Gift Sector) and Spring Fair (Stand 4B21).

What’s next for Signare?

The future holds exciting possibilities, with continued collaborations, new releases, and innovative designs. Stay tuned for more woven tapestry wonders as we continue to weave stories into every piece we create.

Signare embraces eco-friendly practices with our commitment to using recyclable materials in our products. Our dedication to sustainability extends to every aspect of our brand, ensuring that our customers can enjoy stylish accessories with a positive impact on the environment. Signare also aims to bring the best quality and storytelling gifts to the world.

Call: 01276 294 83 Email: info@acjade.co.uk Visit: www.signaretrade.co.uk Gifts Today 39

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Product Focus At Home

Desirable

debuts

Lesser & Pavey

Playful Easter

crafting

Exacompta Clairefontaine Unleash your creativity with the latest Décopatch treasures, featuring enchanting Cracked Eggshells. Ideal for gifting, these are perfect for hiding treats or doubling as mini plant pots, becoming the centrepiece alongside adorable bunnies or rustic chickens.

The pack contains six Cracked Eggshells, making them an excellent choice for Easter crafts. Elevate your crafting experience further with Décopatch’s newest animal mâché shapes, including two sheep designs and a pack of six Hanging Cracked Eggshells - a perfect solution for this happy season!

Call: 01553 696600 Email: sales@exaclair.co.uk Visit: www.exaclairlimited.com

Take heart

Personalised Memento Company This free-standing personalised wooden heart decoration from Personalised Memento Company makes a lovely addition to any home or office.

Available in a large variety of different designs, including the Personalised Flower Of The Month Heart (pictured), this ornament is a gift option for all occasions, and its neutral colour scheme complements any décor. Plus, as the item is free-standing, it can easily be displayed upright on any flat surface, so it’s suitable to put on view on fireplace mantelpieces, shelves or tables.

With no minimum order quantities, free registration and drop shipping available across the entire range, pop over to PMC’s website to register for an account now.

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

There are fresh new additions to the Desire range of diffusers from Lesser & Pavey, as part of the Desire home fragrance range. With pastel coloured containers, bamboo reeds, and matching floral features, these are ideal for Spring.

The fragrances contained include six best-sellers: Velvet Rose and Oud, Pomegranate Noir, Lavender and Chamomile, Vanilla and Anise, Fresh Linen, and Fig and Lotus. Each diffuser comes in complementary gift packaging.

Also new is a glassware range called Azure, which comprises a vase, bowl, and platter. Part of the company’s Vincenza Glass Collection, all the pieces are handmade by skilled workers, who have captured a marble-like pattern of differing colourways to create a look of movement within each item.

The products are unique in shape and finish, and the colourways are a perfect reflection of home décor and upholstery styles which are currently trending with consumers.

Call: 01322 279225 Email: sales@leonardo.co.uk Visit: www.leonardo.co.uk

Village

newcomers

Joe Davies

Village Pottery is one of Joe Davies’ best-selling ranges and is always a firm favourite with retailers and customers alike. The distinctive hand-crafted look of each piece gives it a unique charm that is very special to this popular range.

There will be a Village Pottery explosion on the Joe Davies stand at Spring Fair, with all your best-selling favourites and a whole host of new designs to choose from.

The brand-new Pretty houses will feature strongly and are designed in an array of delightful colours, with cute bunting and flowers adorning each item.

Also making a debut are additions to the charming Garden houses, which have quirky style roofs, cute picket fences, and shrubbery: perfect for attracting those Spring sales.

Other new categories for the collection include beautiful Brick houses, stunning village stores, and character croft houses - which come complete with the odd sheep or two!

Joe Davies specialises in supplying independent retailers in ‘little and often’ quantities, with carriage paid orders of just £100 and free nationwide delivery.

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

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21/12/2023 11:07

Focus On...

Ceramic Design Heritage

“For the first time, we are offering a comprehensive tableware range featuring five patterns, including our best-selling ‘Honey Bee’”

New brand launch Ceramic Design Heritage has expanded its offering by launching an off-the-shelf brand: Museum Collection

C

eramic Design Heritage’s focus has always been on producing bespoke fine bone china, working with UK heritage sites and artists.

Sales and marketing director Paul Travis says: “We currently create fine bone china ranges for well-known artist brands such as Robert Fuller, Katie Cardew, and Powderhound and historic sites: Houses of Parliament, St George’s Chapel Windsor, and Hever Castle are just some examples.

We have worked with the renowned wildlife artist Robert Fuller for more than five years and have developed the Katie Cardew range over the past three years, giving them quality product at competitive prices, supported by strong customer service.

But we are not just mugs. Our range encompasses cups and saucers, plates, teapots, jugs, and giftware including trinket boxes, thimbles and clock boxes.

Demand for UK production has grown strongly in the past three years, leading to Ceramic Design Heritage trebling its turnover.

Recruiting skilled new staff at our Stoke-onTrent factory has been challenging, but we have succeeded by creating new workplace apprenticeships.

What has also helped is the massively increased costs of importing from the Far East, combined with long lead times and high manufacturing minimums. Customers now wish to work with a UK supplier they can ‘touch and feel’, giving them confidence in service and quality.

We purchased the brand Museum Collection four years ago, but have not been able to launch this as the factory has been at maximum capacity. So 2024 is the year!

Our in-house designers have created 10 giftware ranges featuring heritage designs with patterns from William Morris and Walter Crane. The ranges include mugs, cups and saucers, and a variety of trinket boxes.

And for the first time, we are offering a comprehensive tableware range featuring five patterns, including our best-selling ‘Honey Bee’.

We will launch a new trade website this month enabling customers to view the entire range and order online, with a carriage paid order value of only £300.

You can view the whole new collection at Top Drawer S/S24 [which takes place at Olympia London from January 14 to January 16] on stand G32, where we will also be happy to take on board new bespoke customers too.”

Call: 07909 539574 Email: paul@cdheritage.com Visit: www.cdheritage.com Gifts Today 41

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21/12/2023 11:07

Focus On...

Quirky Barn

Sustainable, affordable and uniquely different The key word at Quirky Barn is sustainability, and its mantra is recycled, reclaimed, upcycled and salvaged, with a sole focus on artisan handcrafted items, says founder Steve Mosley

Q

uirky Barn is a supplier committed to providing customers with products that offer market leading design and exceptional value for money.

Why Quirky Barn? Because our trade showroom is a barn full of quirky products! We are based on a farm in north Warwickshire which is a very pleasant place to be - yet it’s only 15 minutes from the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham.

With more than 22 collections and nearly 1,600 products, you will always find inspiration and a point of difference for your business. Nothing is sourced or manufactured in large factories - only small familyowned businesses and co-operatives using local sustainable materials.

Very popular at the moment is the Marine recycled furniture collection. All items are handcrafted with reclaimed timber from old fishing boats. The furniture is then hand-finished, making all marine pieces unique with a great patina and finish. Many other furniture ranges are also available made from reclaimed timbers.

The Carnival/Circus collection is completely exclusive and unique to Quirky Barn. This is a very colourful and bright range: the items are fun, happy pieces that look great anywhere.

A lot of research and time goes into sourcing and designing these collections and there is a level of difficulty in trying to be all sustainable. I’m very passionate about creating this new eco-friendly business. Many now realise that natural resources in the retail industry need to be reduced. Not only can using reclaimed materials and upcycling help with this, but customers want it too.

I enjoy finding the treasures that lurk in the many junkyards that I visit. Different finds from Rajasthan and the mountain villages of Pakistan and Nepal adorn the Quirky Barn showroom.

There are hundreds of eclectic items from original iron and clay pots to old iron tub sets, which are great for planters. We also have available original village water hand pumps and colourful canal buckets, antique trunks and chests which make unusual coffee tables, or our vintage boxes which are handy for storage and displaying items, while vintage carts, milk churns and our teak military tables and chairs make great display pieces. Many thousands of original finds arrive each month, making a visit to the showroom essential.

From derelict old buildings, Quirky Barn salvages all the original vintage doors, window shutters and wall panels. They are then upcycled with the addition of mirrors, making every piece uniquely different, which complements the many sustainable furniture collections.

Plus, the exciting and very affordable new Kala textiles range is made completely from waste plastic bottles, creating a very sustainable collection indeed. The Kala rugs, cushions, throws and poufs are hand-woven by craftsmen. Eco-friendly and inventive, the plastic bottles are collected, shredded and then turned into paste. The paste is then spun into fibre to make these beautiful affordable and sustainable items for the home.

The extremely popular vintage display crate collection is a business on its own. With over 200 different designs, they are great for homes, cafes, retail displays and many other uses. We also have our very popular Liberty recycled aluminium collection of reindeer-themed culinary items, as well as champagne buckets and novelty display items… the list goes on and on at Quirky Barn!

Call: 02476 632148 Email: sales@quirkybarn.co.uk Visit: www.quirkybarn.co.uk

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21/12/2023 11:08

OPINION

Let’s talk about...

sustainable trading Retail100 Consulting director and co-founder Anna Berry explores the concept of considerate consumption

A

s I write this column, we are knee-deep in the Christmas trading season and the COP28 climate change conference has just started. Not to be a grinch, but last year was the hottest on record, and we all need to play our part in trading sustainably.

I love retail but this conflicts with my concerns about the future of the planet.

There’s a number of ways to embrace ‘considerate consumption’, but it’s complex and emotive - how do we grow sales but produce less waste?

I attended a couple of sustainability debates in November with several brands and retailers where we discussed possible options. One big issue across fashion, beauty and gifting is excess in the supply chain. It’s hard to get precise figures but almost 50% of what is produced does not get to its key markets and intended customers. It is then discounted or ‘jobbed off’. The countries which have traditionally taken the excess cannot cope with the mountains of stock.

In the electrical industry, suppliers can be made responsible for the endof-life of products they sell, and there is legislation coming across more industries to halt overproduction, starting with fast fashion. There will also be enhanced legislation on reuse and recycling cutting excess in the supply chain will protect profits with less discounting and waste.

Another approach is to cut packaging waste.This is particularly tough for the gift industry where, in order to make a product into an attractive gift, the brand equity and packaging enhances the item.

We work with some suppliers who do this brilliantly. One is the Certified B Corporation (B Corp) home fragrance brand Scandinavisk. B Corps are companies verified by B Lab to meet high standards of social and environmental performance, transparency, and

accountability.

Skandinavisk sources its wax in Sweden. Organic and vegan, it produces scents from sustainable sources, and has lighter footprint packaging.

It has expanded its refills ranges and encourages the reuse of its vessels for tealights, and its diffusers as vases.

Skandinavisk also has a positive impact on its local community, by employing refugees among its team.

Talking Tables is another B Corp business we have worked with which takes its responsibilities for the planet and people very seriously.

On a mission to provide sustainable choices, Talking Tables also prioritises fundraising and charities in its local community, with volunteering a core part of its positive social impact. And where products are not recyclable, it aims to make them reusable.

Transparency is vital to avoid ‘greenwashing’ or ‘greenhushing’.

Talking Tables is very open about being on a journey and the need to do more.

There are always compromises to be made, and customers need to trust that companies are trying to do the right thing.

The B Corp movement is growing

but has a much higher profile in the US. We need to do more to promote it in the UK. There are over 6,000 B Corps in 80 countries, all forming a global movement of people using business as a force for good.

One of the latest in our list of gift and homeware firms we are working with is Storigraphic. This sustainable brand is run by brilliant designers Nic and Roz, who are adamant that they want to focus on their impact on the planet. This is very tough for a new company but they are determined to produce in the UK where possible, and offset any carbon impact.

They work with other sustainable suppliers, and their stationery and cards are all recyclable, while their coasters and tote bags are made in the UK (as are their cushions, which are handmade). The ‘Storipledge’ on their website calls out their desire to offer products that do not cost the earth.

We need to continue to support the gift industry’s suppliers, by working together to deliver strong business practices that can enhance loyalty and profit - as well as deliver beautiful and innovative products.

Skandinavisk

Storigraphic

Talking Tables

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

With more than 33 years of retail experience - both on the shop floor and in the head office - Anna was Head of Buying for Gifts, Cook and Dine at John Lewis with a team of more than 60 and sales of close to £400 million. She has also covered many buying categories in menswear, sport, fashion and beauty.

A driven leader, Anna is strategically agile and known for her passion for people and product, with trust and mentoring at the heart of her leadership style.

Email: hello@retail100consulting.co.uk Visit: www.retail100consulting.co.uk; www.linkedin.com/company/retail100-consulting/ Gifts Today 43

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Gifts Today

SHOP TALK Two very different gift retailers share some interesting insights into their businesses, and discuss their current trading experiences Linda McBride

Owner Gibbles Gifts, Cards & Home Anstruther, Fife

“Our stock is quite eclectic, and we try to carry a wide range of price points”

My background is that I was a business development officer within the NHS, and also worked a bit in human resources. But I’ve always had an interest in the gift sector. I love choosing gifts for friends and family, and now I get to do it on a much bigger scale!

I opened Gibbles Gifts, Cards & Home in the small town of Anstruther in the East Neuk of Fife (a beautiful area made up of small villages with lovely harbours and beaches), in August 1998. We celebrated our 25th anniversary last year and ran a 25% off offer on all stock that weekend.

I picked the name Gibbles because in this area it means ‘bits and pieces’. So, when someone is about to leave after a visit, you might say to them: “Have you got all your gibbles?”

We’re known for our wide range of gifts and cards, which is perhaps not always available in such a modestly sized shop as ours. Our stock is quite eclectic, and we try to carry a wide range of price points.

Key categories are soft toys, candles/body products, ceramics, jewellery, and fashion accessories. Some of our main suppliers include Gisela Graham, Fragrances of Ireland, Jellycat, East of India, Emma Ball and Langs - all of which we’ve dealt with for a number of years.

To find products, we attend Scotland’s Trade Fair Spring, Spring Fair, Home & Gift, and Scotland’s Trade Fair Autumn. We supplement that with rep and agent visits, and occasionally find something different in trade magazines. We don’t have specific criteria but try to keep in mind who our customers are, and what they might like to see.

New finds for us last year were earrings in cute little glass domes from Attic Creations, Snoopy mugs and prints from Magpie, and bamboo socks by Miss Sparrow.

And on the counter is a spinner of Joma Jewellery’s Littles bracelets and a spinner of Lucky Sixpence hanging wooden plaques from LT Creations.

We gift wrap if specifically asked, but offer tissue wrap generally. We also have gift vouchers and run a loyalty card scheme, which is great for encouraging repeat custom.

We’re quite active on Facebook and also have an Instagram account (which doesn’t work quite so well for us).

For S/S24, we’re looking forward to seeing lines from our bigger suppliers and sourcing smaller home interior products such as lamps and tables. These have been a challenge to stock since Covid and our exit from the EU, mainly due to wholesale cost and the subsequent retail price.

We have no new plans in the pipeline other than continuing to source the best products we can at affordable prices. I love it when customers come into the shop and compliment our range - and of course when they leave having found the perfect gift!

My favourite gift right now? It has to be the Rainbow Highland Cow from Hairy Coo he’s simply adorable!

The most challenging part of retail at the minute is trying to find unique products which aren’t in every high street store, and making the customer feel like they are getting something really special.

My advice to anyone entering gift retail is to buy with your customer base in mind: there’s no point stocking your shop full of everything you love, because not everyone will have the same taste.

1. Jellycat plush Don’t go into retail thinking you’ll just buy nice things, open your door and make a 2. East of India ceramics fortune. It takes hard work sourcing the right product at the right price, and you’ll never please all of the people all of the time.

3. Mala Leather purses My New Year’s business resolution is to definitely continue to keep on top of the 4. Langs giftware paperwork - it’s only taken 25 years!

Top 5 Best Sellers

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5. Gisela Graham giftware

21/12/2023 11:09

Karen Carter

Giftware and Seasonal Purchasing Manager Woodlands Garden Centre Sevenoaks, Kent My career history spans many years. For the first 20, I worked in retail banking in London.

The change came when my eldest daughter was born. I wanted to work closer to home and was lucky enough to secure a job locally as an assistant manager with John Lewis - still in retail, just selling different products! After several years, opportunities arose to work part-time in management positions for The White Company and Tommy Hilfiger.

In 2014 I was offered a job at Woodlands Garden Centre. I soon became the gift department manager and stayed for five years. After a brief spell as a sales manager for a book company, I returned and was promoted to the position I have now of giftware and seasonal purchasing manager.

I was previously involved with a small amount of buying, so it’s been great to expand on that. My role is continuously developing. I’m also responsible for visual merchandising for seasonal and everyday gift displays, and continue to manage the gift department too.

Woodlands is a family-owned medium-sized independent centre which has been trading for 55 years (it started out as a small nursery). We’re very lucky to be in an affluent area, but we have a varied demographic, which sometimes makes gift buying a little more challenging.

“The gift department is packed with a variety of products: there is something for everyone” The gift department is packed with a variety of products: there is something for everyone. I try to buy a diverse range and support local businesses wherever I can. Core categories are fashion accessories, home fragrance, children’s toys, baby gifts, and food & drink. Key suppliers include Kaemingk, Joe Davies.

Katie Loxton, Joma Jewellery, Accessories By Park Lane, Wrendale Designs, Portmeirion, Allsorted, Abacus Cards, Swift Imports, Smart Solar, Premier Decorations, Smart Garden Products, and RSW International.

We frequently attend trade shows: Spring Fair, Autumn Fair, Home & Gift, and sometimes Top Drawer. We also visit Kaemingk in Holland in January to do a chunk of our Christmas buying.

I have regular meetings with reps too. I believe it’s important to build good relationships and they ensure I’m kept up to date with any exciting new products being released. Gift trade magazines are a great help too!

For us, price point is paramount. We’re lucky that there are few retail outlets locally, which makes it even more important to be a one-stop-shop with a good selection of quality gifts at the right price. The use of social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram definitely ensures our name is out there, and hopefully encourages people to visit.

Coming into the Winter season, fashion accessories by Park Lane and Katie Loxton are hands-down winners. I’ve just started to stock Playmobil, Jellycat, Uncommon Wines (every flavour is delicious!), and PlayPress Toys, to name just a few.

I love my job and it’s so rewarding to receive lovely compliments about our centre. Everybody works so hard, and we have a great team spirit.

The most challenging part is getting the buying right, and wishing there were more hours in the day! Sometimes it feels there’s no rhyme nor reason why some things work, and others don’t.

My advice to anyone thinking of starting out in gift buying is to go ahead and take the plunge. Every day is different and hard work - but it’s so enjoyable and incredibly rewarding.

As to the future, I’m always looking for new products. I’m a judge for The Giftware Association’s 2024 Gift of the Year Awards, so this will be an enormous help to see innovative ideas. I’m also hoping to expand into more home textiles.

Top Five Best Sellers 1. Joe Davies Eternity suncatcher 2. One For Fun 1:36 Lamborghini 3. W rendale Designs ‘Hanging Around’ 20cm sloth canvas 4. A ccessories By Park Lane black fake fur poncho 5. K atie Loxton taupe weekend holdall Gifts Today 45

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RETAIL INTERVIEW

Oswaldtwistle Mills Home & Lifestyle Centre

“We’re always

evolving” Clare Turner talks to Nick Pitman, managing director of Oswaldtwistle Mills Home & Lifestyle Centre in Lancashire, which is celebrating its 30th anniversary

What’s your background?

After finishing my A Levels - and with a plan to continue studying law - I took a ‘year out’ to work and save up for travelling, prior to going to university. But 22 years later, I think I have the record for the longest ‘year out’, as I’m still here!

How did you get into retail?

This was my first job when I was 16: I was a ‘wrapper’ on the tills. This didn’t involve any musical skills, just being good with bubble wrap and not dropping any high value goods!

Tell us about Oswaldtwistle Mills Home & Lifestyle Centre.

This year is our 30th anniversary. The company was incorporated in 1994 at Moscow Mill in Oswaldtwistle: an old weaving mill in Lancashire.

Initially the store sold some crockery, gifts and textiles, and at the time it was still an operational mill with jacquard looms in half the store,

Top 5 Best Sellers 1 Baltus room fragrance 2 Fountasia Robotime 3D Puzzles 3 Wrendale Designs range 4 Jellycat plush 5 Assorted candles

manufacturing textiles for our sister company Hilden Manufacturing.

We have more than 120,000sq ft of retail, with four restaurants, 500 car parking spaces, and the capacity to accommodate 15 coaches in our coach park.

Coach parties visit from all over the country: some are on tours on the way to the Lake District or Blackpool, and many are on organised shopping trips.

Our retail offer is a fantastic mix of fashion (including brands such as Edinburgh Woollen Mill, Bonmarché, Tog 24, and Apricot) and a home and lifestyle centre filled with sofas, dining, and accessories - along with handpicked collections from giftware suppliers which have been selected over the years to formulate a one-stop giftware destination for any shopper.

What sets it apart from other mill shops?

We are still based in an old weaving mill with original Northern light features [a north-light roof typically used in mills, with the north-facing side usually glazed to allow light in, and the southfacing side slate/tiled to reflect the sun]. We have built our reputation on being one of the main shopping destinations in the North West.

We are also a hybrid store in the sense that we have a mix of concessions and our own buy ranges.

That is, non-concession ranges bought in-house.

We also have a fabulous Christmas shop which launches every August and trades on 10,000sq ft, encompassing four Christmas decoration themes,

lighting, real and artificial Christmas trees, and accessories.

How would you describe your gift range?

There is something for everyone, from candles to toys, plush teddies to sculptures, and gadgets to games.

“We have built our reputation on being one of the main shopping destinations in the North West” Our key categories are gadgets, candles, room diffusers, toys and puzzles. We deal with more than 30 suppliers in our giftware store including Fountasia, Sense Aroma, Baltus, Wrendale Designs, Edge Sculpture and Jellycat.

How do you find products?

The trade press is always helpful for introducing new ranges, along with social media. Reps and agents always have something up their sleeves too, and we take recommendations from them. Plus, we always visit the not to be missed Spring Fair!

What’s your selection criteria?

Unique products that are not on the high street (as much as possible), ensuring there’s no clashes with local retailers, and ensuring that the new lines

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will complement our current ranges and offer good value for money for our customers.

How has trading been for you over the past 12 months?

General trade has been tough across the store, but this encompasses fashion, furniture, and food, as well as gift.

Giftware has really held its own this past 12 months. The team has been brilliant in ensuring the right products have been at the right price all the time.

“We never stand still and are constantly developing the store and incorporating new ranges” What are you most excited about seeing/stocking for S/S24?

We’re excited about two new launches, both distributed by BTL Diffusion UK, which recently hit our shelves and are looking great, Little Big Friends are soft fabric toys aimed at youngsters from 0+ months. They feature animal and dinosaur designs and also incorporate musical play mats and activity toys.

The second launch is Cloud-B’s room light projectors and recordable sound boxes. You can record stories or music to help sooth little ones.

There is also a range of soft toys with lights and sound boxes in.

What’s next for Oswaldtwistle Mills Home & Lifestyle Centre?

We’re always evolving. From Christmas products to fantastic giftware lines, we never stand still and are

constantly developing the store and incorporating new ranges all the time. We’re always looking for the Next Big Thing.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of your job?

I love the business, I love the people (customers and colleagues), and I love the variety of my job.

One week I’ll be in Holland buying Christmas decorations, the next week I’ll be at the NEC buying and sourcing new furniture suppliers, and on another day I’ll be on the back of an artic lorry choosing plants for the garden centre.

What’s the most challenging aspect of your job?

Keeping up with trends, and ensuring that we always offer good value for money. Currently one significant challenge is recruitment: it’s becoming more and more difficult to find strong candidates and, when we do, getting them to turn up for interviews.

What’s your New Year’s retail resolution?

The resolution for all my buying teams in-store (and this is something I consistently remind them) is to find the best-selling ranges, establish what the top sellers are, and never let them go out of stock.

It’s a challenge to avoid being overstocked, but if it’s not on the shelf the customers can’t buy it - simple really!

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OPINION

Navigating

the calm

Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira (British Independent Retailers Association), shares suggestions on how stores can steer through the quieter period following Christmas

A

s we bid farewell to the hustle and bustle of the festive season, independent retailers find themselves at the crossroads of reflection and anticipation.

The dawn of 2023 brought its share of challenges, with the cost-of-living crisis casting a shadow over the retail landscape. Now, as the pace slows, savvy indies are seizing the opportunity to strategise and fortify their businesses for the year ahead.

The quieter weeks ahead serve as a crucial period for laying the groundwork that will shape the year. As the retail calendar shifts towards trade shows such as Spring Fair, it’s essential to approach stock selection strategically.

Understanding customer preferences, discerning trends, and evaluating market demands become the guiding principles in this critical phase.

A key consideration is deciphering whether sustainability remains a driving force, or if the trend pendulum has swung towards value. In the wake of economic uncertainties, value retailers like Aldi and Lidl have thrived, with consumers

Opportunity knocks!

B

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

The Spotlight On… articles are an opportunity to gain visibility, enhance your brand’s reputation, and connect with other members.

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

seeking essential items at the best possible value.

Even within larger supermarkets, private labels have gained prominence, as shoppers prioritise value in their everyday essentials.

For independent retailers dealing in ‘nonessential’ items, the strength of the brand becomes a crucial anchor. Resilience is found in

products once customers have engaged with your business.

Crafting a seamless customer journey, from initial contemplation to final purchase, is the key to fostering trust and loyalty. It’s about instilling confidence in customers right from their homes, making them believe they can find what they seek in your store.

As we stand on the precipice of a new year, independent retailers have the unique opportunity to re-evaluate, adapt, and fortify their positions in the market.

“As we stand on the precipice of a new year, independent retailers have the unique opportunity to re-evaluate, adapt, and fortify their positions in the market”

Photo: iStock | HAKINMHAN

those brands that offer quality and uniqueness.

The middle ground, often deemed the ‘average’, is the battleground where customers may pivot towards value or opt for quality. Therefore, crafting a stock selection that balances value and quality is paramount.

In an era dominated by digital connectivity, the importance of social media cannot be overstated.

Regular and engaging posts, website updates, and staying attuned to local community dynamics are integral components of a robust online presence.

These platforms serve as the gateway to customers’ journeys - from the moment they contemplate a purchase, to their blissful exit from your premises as satisfied shoppers.

However, the real crux lies in the follow-up: offering impeccable service and delivering quality

The path to success lies in strategic planning, a keen understanding of market dynamics, and a commitment to delivering value and quality. By navigating the calm, independent retailers can position themselves for a resilient and prosperous 2024.

Call: 0800 028 0245 Visit: www.bira.co.uk

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Trade talk We handed out crystal balls to six leading gift suppliers and asked them to divine 2024 trends, and reveal their Spring plans and predictions for the year Aylish Ellwood

Trade Marketing Manager Enesco What are your plans for Spring?

Spring is always an exciting time for us, but more so in 2024 as we will be celebrating our 30th anniversary throughout the year. We have a newly designed stand at Spring Fair, where we will be telling the Enesco story as we have a trip down memory lane.

And for the first time we will be exhibiting at Scotland’s Trade Fair Spring: a great opportunity to really engage with our customers from Scotland and the North of England. Both fairs are the perfect platform to launch our new collections, highlighting our breadth of licensed giftware including Disney, Willow Tree, Yankee Candle and more, allowing customers to focus in a relaxed environment.

Which trends do you predict will be hot in 2024?

As we start 2024, consumers will still be cautious; watching how they spend their well-earned cash. So we understand the need to offer good quality products at great value prices. This is where household brands such as Disney, Woodwick, and Beatrix Potter become trusted purchases.

We will see continued support for small businesses and the high street, highlighting the true personal shopping experience. Above all, people will always want to buy gifts and decorate their homes.

How optimistic are you for the year ahead?

We are always optimistic, because one thing we have learned over the rollercoaster of the past few years is that we never know what is around the corner. What is important is how we deal with it.

Giftware is a fun industry, and with a hardworking team, we know we can continue to be successful. We continue to invest in new products and marketing initiatives as it’s so important to offer our retailers new and fresh products, to keep consumers coming through their doors.

“Spring is always an exciting time for us, but more so in 2024 as we will be celebrating our 30th anniversary”

Jo Ashton

Creative Director Henry & Co. What are your plans for Spring?

We have some great floral scents launching at Spring Fair including Spring Flowers and Fresh Daisies, plus some unique blends including Pear & White Freesia and Earl Grey & Bergamot. We also have a brand-new product - our new Artisan Wax Melt Bar - which we are so excited about.

“I think we will see a rise of ‘gender neutral’ fragrances” Which trends do you predict will be hot in 2024?

As far as fragrances go, I think we will see a rise of ‘gender neutral’ fragrances, so more ambers, musks and linens as opposed to florals.

Sensory connections will still be a leading component of people choosing fragrances, whether that’s to bring about a feeling of calm and relaxation, or awaken a happy memory from our past.

How optimistic are you for the year ahead?

If the last year is anything to go by, we’re looking for a great year ahead. We have grown phenomenally over the past 12 months and there’s no sign of it stopping.

Consumers are repeat purchasing, and this proves they are beginning to trust the brand to deliver a quality fragrance with sustainable credentials. Consumer feedback also tells us that the fact we are hand-poured and made in the UK is as important to them as the fragrance experience.

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Trade talk Lawrence Savage

UK Marketing Manager Exacompta Clairefontaine What are your plans for Spring?

The New Year will see a variety of exciting new additions to our popular brands. We have an attractive selection of GRS certified laptop sleeves, which are made of polyester from recycled water bottles (rPET).

We are also extending our best-selling crafting ranges with three new Décopatch mini kits with new lion, mermaid and superhero models.

Avenue Mandarine educational puzzles and toys are continuing to grow in retail and there are several new products being released, including the creature and vehicle-shaped 3D Puzzles which enable younger children to learn through play.

Which trends do you predict will be hot in 2024?

Sustainability will remain a key influencing factor that drives innovation throughout 2024. Vintage styles are set to make a big comeback again, and our NeoDeco collection of premium filing and desktop stationery lends itself perfectly to the home office environment.

With an increasing focus on personal wellbeing, paper crafting activities are continuing to grow in popularity and a choice of new seasonal themed origami packs has been launched, as well as an Origami Bunch of Flowers Kit, which includes everything needed to create a timeless bouquet while enjoying this stress-reducing pastime.

“Sustainability will remain a key influencing factor that drives innovation throughout 2024”

How optimistic are you for the year ahead?

According to Insider Intelligence UK, retail ecommerce is expected to increase by 5.3%, with overall growth also set to remain positive at 4.8%.

We’ve experienced a steady uptake in recent months with the development of more marketing support and focused promotional campaigns. Online sales of new product innovations have helped to drive in-store listings and performance across our resellers.

Paul Hooker

Managing Director Joe Davies What are your plans for Spring?

Work on our 2024 collection started immediately after Spring Fair 2023 finished, and we really have pulled out all the stops.

We will have more than 2,000 brand-new lines making their debut, including Christmas 2024 and our Spring Summer Collection. New artists will be joining our EastWest brand, and there are some exciting developments to our Village Pottery range.

Which trends do you predict will be hot in 2024?

Countryside themes are coming through, in particular robins, mushrooms and toadstools. Flowers are spilling over onto ceramics, and sentiment continues to be big business on wooden frames, jewellery, and home items.

Glass is starting to trend for 2024, so look out for classy glass lamps, and vases and home items with crackle and mottle finishes. Equilibrium jewellery and accessories will pick up on the key gift themes. In addition, molten metal and strong crystal trends are coming through.

How optimistic are you for the year ahead?

There are plenty of reasons to be optimistic for 2024. Independent retailers in the UK are world-class operators and will make the most of every opportunity.

Our job at Joe Davies is to make sure our customers have the right products, at the right price, available when they need it. We are very excited to launch all the new collections and range additions at Spring Fair.

“Independent retailers in the UK are world-class operators and will make the most of every opportunity”

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Darren Litton

Founder Cocoba Chocolate

Sarah Watmore Owner Miss Milly

What are your plans for Spring?

We will be launching our new collections in January, with a stunning colour palette of pastels to tropical brights to really add some light to those dreary weeks after Christmas.

There will be a whole host of new magnetic brooches (which are still selling phenomenally well), a brand-new capsule collection of raffia hoop and flower earrings, and a return of our bold, hand-painted jewellery sets - which we haven’t been able to offer since the Covid pandemic. Everything will be on show at Spring Fair and Moda: our only exhibition of the season.

Which trends do you predict will be hot in 2024?

Iridescence and pastel products with shimmer are hot news for Spring, and we have created some beautiful resin pieces with this effect in our jewellery including peaches, lavenders, baby blues and mint greens.

There is also a trend for mixing mid-blue with yellow - a combination that is hard to get right but we’ve worked on it, and have three new jewellery sets that satisfy this well. And after a fashion year full of green, we’ve happily got more in 2024.

How optimistic are you for the year ahead?

What are your plans for Spring?

We’re looking at adding a few more exciting Easter products, which will be great for everyone in the family. We’re adding in a lot more trade fairs and exhibitions this year to extend our reach, and get our delicious chocolate products to more people in the UK and further afield.

Which trends do you predict will be hot in 2024?

We think consumers will still demand great high-quality tasting products - and with price increases, many companies will be using cheaper ingredients.

However, we will be keeping our high-quality chocolate and ingredients, as we care first and foremost about the quality and taste of our products.

We expect salted caramel will still be a popular choice, and new and exciting products with a ‘wow factor’ will be in high demand, such as our unicorn hot chocolate bombes.

How optimistic are you for the year ahead?

As a company we are very optimistic: we see another great year of growth and sales of more of our delicious chocolate products!

“We’re looking at adding a few more exciting Easter products”

2023 was tough but successful, and we have continued to grow.

Thank you lovely customers! We are optimistic for 2024 and have a grounded belief in our products, which meet trends and consumer requirements and offer great value in a cautious economy.

“Iridescence and pastel products with shimmer are hot news for Spring”

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Gifts Today

THE 2024 COLLECTION See our NEW stand at SPRING FAIR 2024: Hall 3, 3L30-M31

Month: January 2024 Issue: 3 Volume: 35

*LIWV