FairFocus The Exclusively Show
‘A perfect showcase f Will Jones, chair of The Exclusively Show and chief operating officer of the show’s owner BHETA (British Home Enhancement Trade Association), shares a preview of what to expect at this year’s event What makes The Exclusively Show different to other trade exhibitions in the buying calendar? It’s small enough to be super-friendly and large enough to include everything any buyer or opinion former might need in terms of product, trends, inspiration and information to make the coming seasons successful and profitable. Maybe ‘small enough; large enough’ is a bit of a cliché, but Exclusively genuinely covers all the bases, offers a level playing field to suppliers small or large, and combines product with trends and advice. And it does so in a positive atmosphere of friendship and mutual benefit. It’s a perfect showcase for gift ideas and a great place for multiple buyers, garden centre buyers and specialist independents alike to see the very latest in products, trends and merchandising. Plus, the strict entry criteria means only bona fide trade customers visit the show and they are very well taken care of, with free refreshments, three course lunches and an evening drinks reception. The Show celebrates its 20th anniversary this year - how has it evolved over the decades? It has grown from just a handful of suppliers in 2002 to a fantastic line-up of more than 130 exhibitors, displaying over 200 brands, including 30 new exhibitors. The main development has been the growth of the small electricals sector. Over time we have refined the show and learned what works best for visitors and exhibitors, and we believe the format is in a very strong place. How will you make this the best Exclusively Show yet? We know that existing features such as the trend talks, tours and displays by forecasting agency Scarlet Opus, and the Brand Showcase - which provides media with a curated insight into the best new products at the show - are hugely popular. The latter (which draws journalists, bloggers and influencers) will be even bigger this year, due to demand. Last year we started the Launch Pad, which is a dedicated area for smaller brands and start-ups, and we will repeat this feature again based on the success of 2021. One new feature will be the acclaimed drinks expert Olly Smith hosting wine tasting events sponsored by glassmaker Stolzle Lausitz, part of exhibitor E P Brands’ portfolio, and the presence of TV chef Jeremy Pang working with exhibitors to explore the potential of food-led video as a means of promoting gifts, small electricals and housewares to consumers. This year we will have travel cost incentives for all, and limited free hotel rooms are available on a first-come-first-served basis for buyers travelling over 50 miles to attend. We are also offering a discount voucher for all independents who place orders at the show. 48 Gifts Today
