Gifts Today November December 2024 by Lema Publishing

Gifts Today Contents

November/December 2024

Gifts Today team

Advertisement Manager

Marian McNamara Marian@lemapublishing.co.uk

Editor Clare Turner Clare@lemapublishing.co.uk

Layout/Design

Rick Vickers rick@lemapublishing.co.uk

Managing Director

Mark Naish mark@lemapublishing.co.uk

Production Director Paul Naish paul@lemapublishing.co.uk

Lema Publishing Ltd

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

Telephone: 01442 289930 www.giftstoday.media

6 News

40 Shop Talk: Independent retailers share their thoughts on Christmas trading, from stocking filler success stories to their favourite gifts of 2024

48 Trade Talk: Leading gift suppliers review the past 12 months and reveal some exciting plans for the new year

Columnists

14 Jo Wiliams, owner/director of Joco gift shop in Nuneaton

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

35 Stephen Spencer, founder of retail consultancy Stephen Spencer + Associates

43 Greg Rose, co-owner of Maybugs gift shop chain in East Sussex and Kent

51 Sara Allbright, director and co-founder of Retail100 Consulting

Cover Story

12 The Gift Fair by Xpofairs, running from January 8 to February 28, is a new online trade show removing the geographical and financial barriers of traditional events, which aims to offer attendees an unparalleled opportunity to connect with the future of the gift industry

Fair Focus

20 UK Exhibition Diary 21 Worldwide Exhibition Diary 22 The Gift Fair by Xpofairs Preview

Inspired Home Show Preview

44 Sally Matson, owner of Little Red gift shop in Petworth, West Sussex

47 Charlotte Muir, buyer & manager of Arnside House Gift Shop in Arnside, Cumbria

Message from the Editor

With Christmas just a few weeks away, it’s all systems go for the gift industry. Suppliers and retailers are pulling out every stop to ensure that this Golden Quarter is not only the most wonderful time of the year but, to paraphrase the famous Andy Williams song, it’s also a time with the tills jingle belling.

We certainly hope it will turn out to be ‘the happiest season of all, when customers come to call’ - ready to spend their hard-earned cash on gifts for their loved ones.

As Helen Dickinson OBE, chief executive of the British Retail Consortium, says: “After a painful Budget for retailers, the hope is it will be less painful for households in the immediate term and consumer appetite will pick up in time for the Black Friday sales and festive season.”

And Linda Ellett, UK head of consumer, retail & leisure of KPMG, notes: “With clarity now provided by the Budget and many households escaping paying increased tax from their wages, retailers will be hoping for an upturn in consumer confidence and spending. The promotional weeks around Black Friday will be the first real test of post-Budget consumer sentiment.”

In this issue, we’ve quizzed several independent gift retailers for our Shop Talk section on their thoughts on festive trading to date. They have also shared their stocking filler success stories - and revealed their favourite gifts of the year.

A common theme is that customers are shopping in advance to spread the cost. Some indies made a conscious decision to bring Christmas into their stores sooner than usual to entice the early birds - though as Carl Knapp, food and gift buyer of Bury Lane Farm Shop in Royston points out, although this strategy seems to be working well, he’s still expecting the last two-week rush!

Our regular columnists give their views (and some useful pointers too). For Greg Rose,

co-owner of Maybugs gift chain in East Sussex, this season will have a special resonance because it marks his first Christmas trading at a new branch: a fourth Maybugs made its debut, in the Kent town of Tunbridge Wells, on November 1.

Our retail interviewee Sally Matson, owner of the long-established Red Card shop in Petworth, is facing a similar scenario. She launched Little Red - a new venture that specialises in gifts and is just 150 yards away from Red Card - on October 15.

Meanwhile, her fellow retail interviewee Charlotte Muir, the buyer and manager of Arnside House Gift Shop in Cumbria (which has been trading for over 40 years!), is “really looking forward to the ‘cosy’ season”. She says her shelves will be full of lovely knitwear, woolly hats and gloves, along with all her favourite winter home fragrance scents. And she’s also been busy with a new project: she’s in the early stages of planning a shop refit.

The wheels of retail never stop spinning - and we’re proud to report on our readers’ achievements, challenges and opportunities. Of course, gift retailers always need gifts, and trade shows are a great hunting ground for newness.

Our Cover Story this month shines the spotlight on The Gift Fair by Xpofairs: a brand-new online trade event for home, gift and fashion buyers. Plus, we’ve devoted 15 pages of this issue to a comprehensive preview of exhibitions taking place at home and abroad in 2025. Our readers have often told us our show guides are a valuable resource, especially if you are unable to attend or, if you are, they can help plan your visit.

So, until we hopefully cross paths in the aisles during the spring trade show season, I wish you all a merry Christmas and a very prosperous New Year. In the words of Greg Rose: fingers crossed that the weather stays dry and crisp, and customers come out in droves!

Finally, I would love to know how trading fared for you in this final quarter. If you’d like to share your story, please get in touch at clare@lemapublishing.

Clare Turner, Editor clare@lemapublishing.co.uk

Enesco and Yankee Candle ring in the festive season

Yankee Candle has launched its ‘Make it more magical’ Christmas campaign across TV, print, PR, social and digital. Supporting the initiative is Enesco, which has been distributing Yankee Candle exclusively to independent retail in the UK since early 2023.

The advert will be seen across linear TV until early December. Playing on the nostalgic pull of fragrance, we see a nurse step o a bus on Christmas Eve and, picking up the scent of something familiar, she is lifted o her feet and carried home - as if by magic.

Upon her return, we see her family engaged in the bustle of Christmas Eve food prep and, atop the kitchen counter, we then notice the source of the aroma: the ambient glow of the Yankee Candle Christmas Eve candle.

Retailers are invited to showcase Yankee Candle and accessories in their stores, supported by free-of-charge point of sale material such as roller banners, window stickers, free-standing signage and posters. In addition, free-of-charge gift bags will delight the consumer by creating gift-ready purchases.

New face at BHETA

The British Home Enhancement Trade Association (BHETA) has appointed Natalia Ciecierska as marketing executive working on promoting both the BHETA brand and the Exclusively Show. In what is a new role, Natalia will report to BHETA’s marketing director Steve Richardson.

As marketing executive, she will be responsible for helping to communicate the beneﬁts o ered by membership of BHETA, as well as developing new BHETA initiatives. She will also support the marketing of the BHETA-owned Exclusively Show to visitors and exhibitors.

The countdown is on…

Brands across the giftware industry have a ﬁnal opportunity to make their mark in The Gift of the Year 2025 Awards, with the contest organised by the Giftware Association (GA) closing for entries on November 30.

GA said: “With the deadline approaching, now is the time to take action. Visit Gift of the Year’s o cial website at www.giftoftheyear.co.uk to create your account and submit your entry. If you’re already a returning entrant, simply log in and upload your latest products.

“For brands wanting to get a head-start, reach out to our team at awards@ga-uk.org for guidance on entering. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the 2025 Awards and gain industry-wide recognition!

“As the largest and most prestigious awards in the sector, the Gift of the Year Awards provide an unparalleled platform for brands to showcase their products to the key players and decision-makers shaping the future of retail.”

6 Gifts Today

Spring Fair launches the Licensing Lab

Spring Fair will launch the Licensing Lab at the next show, which takes place from February 2 to February 5 at NEC Birmingham.

In partnership with Fabacus and Licensing International, the Licensing Lab will o er a dedicated showcase for licensors and licensees to present the latest brands, trends, and innovations within the licensing industry.

As a key licensor across multiple product categories, Llewelyn-Bowen Design will design the area with its bespoke wallpaper and furnishings. Visitors will discover a stylish and comfortable networking lounge for informal discussions, refreshment breaks, and collaborative meetings. They can attend educational sessions including workshops, panels, and seminars led by industry experts covering licensing trends, legal aspects, marketing strategies, and success stories. Interactive displays will feature engaging demonstrations, product samples, and live product demos.

With 61% of the Spring Fair’s 38,000 visitors expressing interest in licensed products, the Licensing Lab will serve as an industry hub, promoting knowledge sharing and business expansion. For more information visit https://www.springfair.com/licensing-lab.

Widdop & Co. reveals sneak peek of Xmas 25 collections

As the festive season approaches, Widdop & Co. is looking to the year ahead as anticipation builds for the unveiling of its Christmas 2025 collections.

This year, ‘The Seasonal Gift Co.’ has announced the launch of nine ranges for 2025. They are: Bellini, Country Christmas, Frosted Haven, Whimsical, Santas & Friends, Nordic Nights, Regal Tidings, The Toy Shop, and Turtle Dove.

To experience the ranges ﬁrst-hand, Widdop is inviting customers to book a visit to its newly refurbished showrooms from December 2 to February 5 at https://www.widdop.co.uk/.

The showrooms have been transformed into a seasonal wonderland, o ering an opportunity for customers to immerse themselves in the collections, and envisage their own festive retail spaces for 2025.

For more details contact your Widdop rep, or call 0161 688 1226, or email sales@widdop.co.uk. The ranges will feature on Widdop & Co.’s website from December 2, and will be on display at Harrogate Christmas & Gift and Spring Fair.

Forging ahead

Tell us a bit about Museums & Galleries Ltd.

Museums & Galleries (M&G) was founded by Caroline Humby-Teck in the mid-1980s to bring together professional expertise in product development and design with the awesome visual riches of the UK’s (and world’s) heritage resources, to o er to the wider public on everyday products and stationery.

From the beginning, the emphasis was on quality and design, and originally targeted the museum consumer in museum shops, which were experiencing rapid development in that decade.

However, M&G quickly found that demand extended onto the British high street, and it started selling to gift and independent card shops, with high street multiples and department stores swiftly following.

Alan and Debbie Williams’ purchase of the company in 2013 brought a new strategic focus to marketing, production sourcing and development, and customer service - whilst investing heavily in the company’s core strengths in quality design, image sourcing and brand licensing.

Major focuses were on the company’s licences with UK national collections (especially the V&A), but new relationships with major UK designers such as Matthew Williamson were also initiated and developed.

These days, M&G sells to major retail brands and all kinds of independents, and the product base has extended far beyond cards, stationery and journals to gifts and art and design-led housewares.

How has 2024 been for you?

2024 has been a particularly exciting year, with several months consecutively posting all-time record sales. The year started with a big bang at Spring Fair with our redesigned stand; our licence launches of Mary Katrantzou, Emma Frances Grant, and Angela Harding; and our new product launches

of kitchen textiles, cloth bound journals and playing card boxes. Our premium gift products and focus on superb design continue to drive sales.

What is the company’s mission?

From the classic to the contemporary, The Museums & Galleries Collection celebrates timeless quality and excellence in art, illustration and design. M&G aspires to be the UK’s leading publisher of quality art cards, gift stationery and design-led home and giftware.

What sets M&G apart?

Our focus on bringing the highest quality to the consumer at the fairest price.

What products does M&G o er?

Greeting cards and notelets; gift packaging including sheet and roll wraps, tissue paper, and gift bags; gift stationery including multiple types of journals and notebooks, pads, address books, diaries, bookmarks, calendars, and year planners; organic cotton tote bags, zipped pouches, and pencil cases; cushions, oven gloves, aprons, tea towels, cotton and paper napkins; PLA and insulated mugs and insulated bottles; paperweights; jigsaw puzzles; and playing cards. What’s next for the company?

There are several big developments in store for 2025! These will be announced nearer to the trade shows. As usual, our ﬁrst big trade show of the year will be Spring Fair. Gifts Today talks to Eddie Clarke, licensing manager of Museums & Galleries, which aspires to be the UK’s leading publisher of quality art cards, gift stationery and design-led home and giftware

New products

Colour & creativity

Joe Davies

Mobile phone lanyards have surged in popularity. The concept is simple yet e ective: the lanyard is worn diagonally across the body, like a cross-body bag, o ering quick access to your phone whilst minimising the risk of dropping or losing it. This really is the new modern way to accessorise!

The Equilibrium Lanyard collection is a stylish assortment that combines functionality with ﬂair. It includes two-tone plaited lanyards, adjustable cord lanyards, and trendy beaded options, which are all available in a selection of colours. For those who prefer even more convenience, the collection includes plaited cord phone wristbands, which provide easy, quick access and keep your phone secure.

Meanwhile, building on the success of Joe Davies’ Creative Crochet Collection, more whimsical and fun sets have been added to the range. Designed for anyone aged 12 and up, each set includes instructions, a gift box, and all the materials needed to create a character.

New designs feature bees, mushrooms, frogs, dogs, fairies, and more. Plus, there are fresh additions to the Christmas Creative Crochet Collection, including a gingerbread man, Christmas tree, and robins. These kits make perfect projects for personal enjoyment or heartfelt handmade gifts for loved ones.

Call: 0161 975 6300

Email: sales@joedavies.co.uk

Visit: www.joedavies.co.uk

Home tweet home Avenue Mandarine

Avenue Mandarine, the manufacturer of educational toys games, has launched a new addition to its range of engaging creative boxes.

This stylishly cute ‘Birdhouse to build’ is ideal for welcoming birds and insects into a garden, allotment or green space. Each box contains a selection of wooden pieces and acrylic paints, a brush, glue and instructions, which enable the user to create a unique birdhouse of their own. Perfect for children aged six and up, the set will help young crafters develop their focus and ﬁne motor skills.

Clock this!

Personalised Memento Company

This charming Personalised Woodland Animals Wooden Clock from Personalised Memento Company (PMC) is an ideal gift for births, christenings and birthdays - and makes a perfect addition to the nursery. Plus, with a silent clock mechanism, it can be displayed without interrupting sleep.

Your own message is surrounded by a whimsical design, creating a special keepsake that will be treasured for years to come. This item is part of PMC’s large range of children’s gifts. Visit PMC’s trade website today to register for your account and get started.

Email: sales@personalisedmemento.co.uk

Visit: www.personalisedmemento.co.uk

A modern twist

Purling

Depicting a bygone age, the new Roaring 20’s Playing Cards from luxury games company Purling feature a modern twist on a time where optimism, new adventures, and the pursuit of pleasure were the tickets to a brave new world. Printed on linen slim-line textured cards, the designs are unique to Purling. The Roaring 20’s cards feature Purling’s custom positioned number cards and reimagined court cards. Whether a player or collector, these cards - which are also available as a twin deck - are a must-have addition to your collection, and make a great gift.

Call: 020 3290 6201

Email: enquiries@purling.com

Visit: https://www.purling.com/

Sparks of joy

Namaste

Call: 01553 696600

Email: sales@exaclair.co.uk

Visit: www.exaclairlimited.com

Namaste has just welcomed beautiful Kashmiri hand-painted candlesticks - perfect as a thoughtful gift! Crafted from sustainable wood, these pieces come in six stunning colours. With intricate petals and delicate foliage ﬁnished in a high-shine glaze, they add elegance and warmth to any space.

Call: 01756 700790

Email: sales@namaste-uk.com

Visit: namaste-uk.com

C’est si bon!

Clairefontaine

Step into the enchanting and iconic universe of the Parisian cabaret with this new, very French collection, where elegance, love and modernity take centre stage.

Treated with a satin lamination, the stationery products feature a shiny spot varnish and textured flocking which perfectly conveys the glamorous essence of the range.

A highlight of this Clairefontaine collection is the calligraphy set, which comprises a classic Jacques Herbin glass pen, a 10ml Moulin Rouge ink bottle, and a calligraphy pad which contains 52 sheets of varying paper weights and colour.

In addition, an eye-catching artist notebook and art folder are also available as a complement to the calligraphy set. The A5 wirebound notebook contains 30 sheets of premium 180gsm drawing paper, whilst the 28 x 38cm folder is supplied with a stylish three-ribbon closure.

Call: 01553 696600

Email: sales@exaclair.co.uk

Visit: www.exaclairlimited.com

Butterfly effect

Personalised Memento Company

Personalised Memento Company (PMC) offers a large range of gifts for her, including the beautiful licensed Hotchpotch butterfly collection. Perfect for Mother’s Day, it spans a wide assortment including ornaments, mugs, candles and more. Simply get in touch with PMC to discover how personalised gifts can work for your business.

Email: sales@personalisedmemento.co.uk

Visit: www.personalisedmemento.co.uk

For DC fans

Zewood

Zewood has released decor for fans of Batman and Superman: the superheroes from the DC universe. The collection includes a wooden Gotham map, a wall clock with the Dark Knight symbols, and posters featuring the Man of Steel.

The new range was created under the licence of Warner Bros. Discovery, so it fully aligns with the canons of the DC universe. Professional designers and artists of the company - together with experts in fantasy worlds - craft each product.

Founded in 2019, Zewood has quickly gained popularity among fans of movie universes and video games thanks to its creative approach. All products are produced using environmentally-friendly materials and undergo thorough quality control. The company adds that it will expand the range with new products based on the DC universe.

Call: +447458149289

Email: hello@zewood.co | Visit: https://zewood.co/

Retro vibes

Olympia Le-Tan

The London Studio has announced a collaboration with Parisian fashion house Olympia Le-Tan for a range of clutches and designer evening bags. These accessories will feature designs from The London Studio’s new brand called Dreamadelic.

The inspiration for Dreamadelic stems from the current trend for retro 1960s and 1970s psychedelia design, most notably in posters and record cover designs, but it has been given a modern twist. The effect is to bring the dreamlike imagery associated with the innovative and experimental music, culture and art of the two decades together with the flair and wit of the 2020s, producing an artform that is perfect for the design philosophy of the Olympia Le-Tan brand. The range will be previewed during Paris Fashion Week in January. The launch into retail is planned for A/W25.

Visit: www.thelondonstudio.com | https://olympialetan.com/

Something Wicked this way comes…

Hunter Price

Universal Products & Experiences has partnered with Hunter Price to bring the magical Land of Oz to life through consumer products, inspired by the story of ”Wicked,“ which arrives in UK cinemas on November 22.

Hunter Price’s Wicked collection will include giftable items such as cosmetic bags, sleep sets, eye masks and mugs, available in Tesco from the end of November.

The collaboration continues into 2025, with further ranges across accessories from keyrings to costume jewellery, as well as bags, gift sets, mugs, candles, home fragrance, hair accessories, hot water bottles, travel cups and more.

Call: 01616531306

Email: home@hunterprice.co.uk | Visit: www.HunterPrice.co.uk

Excitement is building

The Gift Fair, running from January 8 to February 28 2025, is an online trade show removing the geographical and ﬁnancial barriers of traditional events, which aims to o er attendees an unparalleled opportunity to connect with the future of the gift industry. Founder Fabian Santoro tells us more...

Organised by the team at XpoFairs, The Gift Fair is an exciting platform that hosts trade shows that work around you - not the other way around. It’s not a website, directory or meeting scheduler. Every aspect is designed to make trade shows faster, cheaper, easier and better. You can speak to real people in real time via instant messaging or video chat, exchange business cards, and much more.

An innovative concept

This concept is truly innovative for suppliers wanting to connect with independent retailers and equally for small businesses who want to get their foot in the door. The platform makes it possible for everyone to participate at a signiﬁcantly lower expense, and levels the ﬁeld to make sure everyone gets a fair shot! It aims to truly democratise trade shows by giving brandnew small independent businesses the same space and exposure as the big industry names.

Everyone pays the same and everyone gets the same. No one has huge stands right by the front door while someone else has a tiny stand at the back in the corner!

Works for buyers

Visitors can take their time browsing the stands at their convenience –again, there’s no travelling away or getting behind with other work. They can log in and visit as many times as they like during the course of the show, so they have time to contact everyone they need to; no one will be missed! The visitor list is growing continuously too, with visitors from UK chains and independents as well as international buyers from Italy, France, The Netherlands, Serbia and the USA conﬁrmed. Without the travel limitations, the event will be truly international.

We wanted a platform by exhibitors for exhibitors to ensure that it would be e ective “ ”

Cost savings

The platform allows you to build beautiful stands in minutes, so you can focus on things that actually matter when growing your business - acquiring quality leads and building a strong network. You can then log in from wherever you are in the world: in an o ce, shop or even from the comfort of your sofa. If you’re an exhibitor, you or someone from your team needs to be logged in for the show, but you can carry on with your daily tasks and you will be notiﬁed if someone wants to chat. This way you don’t need to travel away from your home and families and take time away from your day-to-day jobs. It saves the hassle of spreading out your resources to attend trade shows and continue with other aspects of your business.

A major appealing factor of The Gift Fair is the cost saving aspect. There are the obvious savings of transportation and shipping costs as well as hotel rooms. But there are then the extra costs that all add up, such as food and drink at the exhibition centres and after the shows - as well as maybe childcare costs while you’re away, and other aspects to consider. Shutting up shop or arranging cover also has a huge impact on businesses’ ﬁnances but also on time costs.

The importance of privacy

An important aspect that appeals to buyers, particularly of well-known stores, is the element of privacy. For example, buyers from big national retailers usually get bombarded as soon as they walk onto a stand. But with The Gift Fair’s environment, buyers have the freedom to browse when they like, for as long as they like. It’s up to them to make the ﬁrst move,

Sustainability

Trade shows have long been a valuable platform for businesses to showcase products, connect with clients, and foster partnerships, but XpoFairs believes their environmental footprint is concerning. It says the considerable waste, resource consumption, and carbon emissions associated with trade shows highlight the need for sustainable solutions in this industry

Environmental Impact of Trade Shows

1. Booth Construction and Logistics

• Booth Construction: Booths are often built using unsustainable, single-use materials like plastics and non-recyclable components.

• Transportation: Trade shows typically involve the movement of heavy equipment, products, and attendees, many of whom travel internationally. This transportation - via ﬂights, trucks, and shipping - leads to large carbon emissions. Exhibitors also frequently ship materials across great distances, further increasing the event’s carbon footprint

2. Waste Generation

• Packaging Waste: Products and samples handed out to attendees frequently come with unnecessary packaging, much of which is nonrecyclable. This adds to the overall volume of waste produced during these events

• Single-Use Items: Trade shows often provide disposable food containers, utensils, and promotional decorations, which are typically used for just a few hours before being thrown away. This practice exacerbates the problem of short-term waste.

What is the alternative?

Trade shows have remained the same for hundreds of years, but

progress and change doesn’t need to be detrimental to the environment. A signiﬁcant shift towards online trade shows has emerged as a response to the environmental concerns associated with physical events. Online shows can drastically reduce the carbon footprint by:

• Eliminating the need for travel, shipping, and material transport;

• Reducing the use of printed materials by relying on digital content;

• Decreasing the consumption of single-use items, such as food containers or promotional items.

The Gift Fair is billed as the ﬁrst online trade show for the gift industry and it runs from January 8 to February 28 2025. XpoFairs says that by participating in The Gift Fair, you will conserve tons of wasted resources as it provides you with everything you need. Everyone can leave with brochures, business cards and leads. However, they will all be in one place, stored digitally, so no more endless pieces of paper that contribute to waste products. But also, no chance of losing them! Being an online community, the travel emissions are cut out, greatly reducing the carbon footprint of the trade show.

Visit www.thegiftfair.com for more information and use the code #WEARETHECHANGE for your free ticket. If you would like more information on how to exhibit please email info@xpofairs.com and one of the team will help you out!

and they can do it on their own terms: whether it’s through the instant chat, a video call, a meeting, or downloading a brochure or one of the other tools. No one will approach you unless you initiate contact.

Sustainability and convenience

An online trade show can also help brands reach their sustainability targets and be kind to the environment at a fraction of the cost. It eliminates the unnecessary carbon footprint and waste from traditional trade shows by well over 90% - and XpoFairs knows that is a big factor for many.

Another element that some exhibitors have found is the returns from the trade shows can be easily a ected by other factors out of their control, such as the weather! This may discourage people from venturing out to visit shows, as well as the never-ending problems with transportation. Trains, buses and ﬂights may be delayed or cancelled, along with tra c getting to the exhibition centre. This can all a ect the footfall at a in-person trade show and then in turn the number of leads generated.

So, who’s there?

There are some fabulous established brands like Gibsons, Professor Puzzle, Paper Mirchi, Orange Tree Toys and F.Y.G. as well as exciting newcomers including Cosmic Cuties and Bangoberry who can’t wait to display their collections at The Gift Fair. Other great names such as Talking Tables, Cheeky Legends, Little Roglets, Rex London, Afrotouch Design, Bewilderbeest, Inside Out Toys, Life Charms and Ginger Fox are also going to be there, with more brands signing up each week. There will also be European brands who sell to the UK like Leuchtturm1917, Campo Marzio, Lefrik, Cabaia and Smemo.

XpoFairs says: “The kind of brands we appeal to most are the ones that are excited by the much-needed change in the gift industry, and the potential our technology has to truly revolutionise how trade shows are conducted.”

Although XpoFairs was o cially launched in 2024, online trade shows is something that the founders have been thinking about for a while. They have a combined experience of 40 years of attending trade shows in the

Testimonials from exhibitors

Talking Tables

“We know how important trade shows are for buyers and that time is precious for them too. We’re committed to making ourselves available to buyers in whatever way they ﬁnd most convenient. So we’re very happy to come on board with The Gift Fair. We also believe a new and highly visual show format is a great platform for launching our new Bon Appetit lifestyle collection, with its focus on brightly coloured pieces that work across both al fresco and indoor dining.”

Sophie Elliston, Head of Sales

Zesty Lemons

“We’re excited to be one of the ﬁrst candle and home fragrance brands to join this movement to bridge the gap between marketplaces and traditional trade shows. We’re looking forward to having a curated outlet to easily connect with retailers around the world!”

Sally Walls, Manager

Bewilderbeest

“We're looking forward to being part of a trade show without needing to remember the masking tape! Plus, we'll have a newborn, so not needing to traveland having endless co ee on hand - is a real bonus.”

Iain Hamilton, Director

Professor Puzzle

“Professor Puzzle is excited to be showcasing at The Gift Fair: an innovative and accessible take on trade shows where we look forward to connecting with customers, old and new.”

Kiera Counsell, Head of UK Catalogue Accounts

Ethiqana

“We're thrilled to join The Gift Fair, where an innovative approach to trade fairs will help small ethical brands shine and make a bigger impact!"

Arshad Khalid, Founder

gift industry. They say that while they love the excitement and opportunities that come along with attending a trade show, the soaring costs, environmental impact and diminishing returns are factors that have encouraged them “to build a solution that enables more exhibitors and attendees to be a part of a trade show than ever before!”

Gibsons Games

“As a family-run business established over 100 years ago, we're excited to exhibit at The Gift Fair for the ﬁrst time, bringing our much-loved puzzles and games to a new audience."

Kate Gibson, Managing Director

Louise Mulgrew

“We’re excited to see who we might meet through an online trade show that might not have been possible at location-based shows! Some of our stockists don’t always make it to the physical trade shows we exhibit at, so this is a great way to connect. It’ll be fun to set up our online booth as well!”

Louise Mulgrew, Founder & Director

Inside Out Toys

“As trade fairs become more costly and customers favour the ease of online ordering, we’re excited to embrace the shift toward online trade fairs, o ering a more e cient and accessible way to showcase our latest products.”

Julian Garner, Managing Director

Clarity Blend

“We're thrilled to be part of The Gift Fair, as it’s an incredible chance to connect with a vibrant community and showcase our latest o erings to new audiences.”

Dimitar Vasilev, Director

F.Y.G.

“We’re delighted to be part of The Gift Fair. The ability to showcase a showroom to customers across the whole of the UK and potentially further aﬁeld is a no-brainer and e ortless to do - at the same time as not committing time and sta .”

Demi Pendakis, Founder

The team behind The Gift Fair

XpoFairs founder Fabian Santoro says: “We wanted a platform by exhibitors for exhibitors to ensure that it would be e ective. In 2021 we took our idea and started speaking to visitors, buyers, distributors and exhibitors to see what they value and what they want to achieve from shows. Since then, we’ve been building this amazing technology that is incredibly powerful but incredibly simple. This seems to be a big factor when showing it to people: just how simple it really is!

The XpoFairs team appreciates that people may be hesitant to try something new, and a little unsure whether to take the risk. So, we are making it as easy for you as possible to make the change, by giving you the chance to have a free stand at the ﬁrst edition of The Gift Fair - so you can give it a try and see for yourself just how simple it is.

The team is always available to help get you started and show you the ropes. It’s a small team who want to make the experience as smooth as possible for everyone and build relationships while working together with exhibitors. Team members Dan and Aarun are working on The Gift Fair. Aarun has exhibited at trade shows in the food and beverage and tech industries, so understands exactly what exhibitors have to do to be at a show and make it successful. Dan has visited trade shows and has enjoyed learning about the gift industry.

My time working on The Gift Fair has been a blast so far. I've had the pleasure of speaking with many incredibly passionate people, working at businesses designing and supplying goods ranging from pyjamas to puzzles! I can't wait for the fun to formally kick o on January 8."

Diary of a gift shop

Jo Williams, owner/director of award-winning gift shop Joco in Nuneaton, shares some of her autumn highlights and looks forward to embracing the festive season

Autumn has been another rollercoaster, but one of my highlights was visiting The Giftware Association (GA) in late October to attend its Autumn Social. I travelled to GA’s headquarters in Birmingham by rail and, as full as the train was, all the passengers seemed to be in very good spirits.

Birmingham’s famous Frankfurt Christmas Market was being set up in the city centre, so I think the buzz that the Yuletide season is just around the corner was bringing some warm cheer to people that I saw.

At the GA event I met manufacturers, wholesalers, fellow gift retailers, and a whole host of other people. There were some fantastic presentations during the day including talks on press exposure, video content creation, and TikTok marketing - and I got to sample some food from Tyga, winner of the food & drink category of the Gift of the Year Awards 2024.

I’m heading back there again in November, and I can’t wait to see how the city has embraced the festive season, especially with the diverse cultures there.

I’m also looking forward to embracing the Christmas season within my shop, as I feel that this time of celebration is an occasion when people start to think about their friends and family more.

It’s not always about buying loved ones a gift ‘just because’; customers take the time to really think about what to buy for each individual, so they’re not wasting their hardearned cash on purchasing something that the recipient won’t like.

This is one of the reasons why I wrote my journal planner entitled “My secret to being a Gift Giving Genius” [Jo is pictured above holding her book], as it gives the buyer a chance to record what they have bought the recipient before and to know whether it was a good present to give.

Presented in a month-by-month format, you can record significant information about special occasions, enter reminders, and keep notes on each person you have given a gift to, using the prompts provided to log details such as their likes and dislikes, interests, favourite animals, colours, etc.

Since my book launched in September - online at https://bit.ly/Giftgivinggenius and in my store - sales have been steady and another design is in the pipeline!

For this final quarter, we’ve introduced a new brand: Keel

Toys. We already sell a lot of plush toys with Charlie Bears and Steiff, but we wanted to ensure that we could offer our customers a lower price point as a pick-up gift, and Keel Toys’ range includes what we describe as pocket money presents. Younger children like to buy a little something for their friends and with prices starting at just £2.99, this is a great offering.

My personal favourite is the Keeleco Pangolin soft toy made from 100% recycled materials: it’s gorgeous! I was actually given one as a present for my birthday. I wonder where it was bought? As if I need to ask!

2025 looks like it could be another challenging year, due mainly to the redevelopment of our town centre and the lack of parking close to us. But we aren’t sitting back. In fact, we’re doing quite the opposite.

We’re pushing forward with TikTok - albeit slowly as we have so much to learn - and we’re increasing our Facebook posts and live videos too. We know that during these difficult times, marketing is key to attracting and retaining customers, so we’re also working on some window visuals to help draw customers’ eyes to our store.

And with the Budget announced, we can make plans to our cash flow to ensure the business’ survival and, in turn, continue our growth plans.

Finally, our new website has taken slightly longer than expected to reach its launch, and a few hurdles have appeared. But we’re working hard behind the scenes to overcome these obstacles and hope to announce the launch of the new site soon.

Shine on with Candlelight

As the home fragrance landscape is changing, there is one company that is emerging as one of the fastest growing candle brands in the UK…

In recent years, there has been a notable increase in the demand for home fragrance products in the UK, with candles at the forefront.

Among this rising trend, Candlelight has established itself as a leading player in the market, appealing to consumers with its wide variety of products, stylish packaging, and a ordable pricing. As the company continues to develop, it has quickly become one of the fastest-growing candle brands in the UK.

Candlelight’s sales have surged by an impressive 50% over the past year. With an emphasis on innovative designs and increased visibility, the company is attracting attention and broadening its customer base.

This swift growth highlights the e ectiveness of its strategic investments in distinctive products and focused marketing, positioning Candlelight as a key player in the candle sector. By prioritising trendsetting candle designs, along with targeted marketing e orts, Candlelight is capturing consumer interest and ﬁlling a void in the market. This approach not only boosts brand recognition but also fosters customer loyalty, solidifying Candlelight’s status in a changing market.

And by developing unique, targeted designs for both large retailers and independent shops, Candlelight ensures that each can maintain a distinct identity while meeting their customers’ speciﬁc needs.

This strategy guarantees that large retailers receive scalable and uniform designs, while independents enjoy personalised and exclusive options. By addressing these di erences, Candlelight promotes satisfaction throughout the industry, supporting both brand unity for larger chains and individuality for independent retailers.

However, with rapid growth comes new challenges. The rising costs of raw materials, supply chain issues, and

heightened competition - from both established brands and newcomers - mean that Candlelight must continue to innovate and adapt to sustain its growth momentum.

As retailers strive to create captivating in-store displays that remain e ective over time, Candlelight is making signiﬁcant strides in the home fragrance market with its introduction of a new ﬁxed display unit.

This is designed for durability and visual appeal, enabling retailers to showcase Candlelight’s broad product range in a well-organised and attractive manner. Built to endure for years, it combines functionality with aesthetics, assisting retailers in enhancing the customer shopping experience and boosting sales.

Candlelight recognises that an e ective display can signiﬁcantly impact a store’s success. Over the years, the company has focused on product quality, and the new ﬁxed display unit embodies this dedication.

By designing a unit that not only organises but also highlights each product, Candlelight seeks to improve brand visibility and make it easier for customers to locate what they need. Constructed from robust, high-quality materials, it serves as a lasting ﬁxture, which is built to endure and ensure that Candlelight’s products are always presented at their best.

Candlelight’s commitment to quality, sustainability, and trend-driven product innovation has created a strong foundation for ongoing expansion.

Timeless appeal

FROM YOU TO ME

FROM YOU TO ME o ers a wide range of beautifully designed, high-quality journals, memory and keepsake books.

A birth, parenting, a birthday, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, an anniversary, Christmas or simply just because… all the products are developed to help customers ﬁnd a gift that shows how much they care about the recipient.

With their timeless appeal and personal touch, these products are for anyone looking to make their loved ones feel truly special - and all for a very a ordable price.

Call: 01225 866225

Email: Hello@fromyoutome.com

Visit: www.fromyoutome.com

Treasured keepsakes

House of Marbles

House of Marbles o ers a wide selection of gift books that not only spark curiosity and ignite imagination, but also encourage a love for reading.

From beautifully illustrated fairy tales that transport children to magical worlds, to classic stories ﬁlled with interactive activities, the books invite readers to immerse themselves in the engaging storyline, making each title a joyous experience for young minds.

The House of Marbles gift book collection is not just a present, but a cherished memory waiting to be created. Ideal for birthdays, Christmas, or simply as a thoughtful surprise, these books are appreciated by parents, grandparents, and their loved ones alike, serving as treasured keepsakes that create lasting memories for families.

Call: 01626 835358

Email: uk@houseofmarbles.com

Visit: https://tradeuk.houseofmarbles.com/

Sensory story Personalised Memento Company

Fan-tastic!

HarperCollins

The Oasis Activity Book is billed as the ultimate celebration of the ultimate rock ’n’ roll band, ﬁlled with trivia, fun stories, puzzles and quizzes for Oasis fans and aspiring rock stars.

Relive the key moments of the band’s career: the thrills, the spills, the guitar ri s and the sibling ti s. Test your knowledge of the on-stage ﬁghts between the Gallagher brothers, the setlists from historic gigs, and the iconic albums that became instant chart-toppers. Think you know your B-sides from your bootlegs? Take the Ultimate Oasis Quiz to ﬁnd out!

Call: 0141 306 3100

Email: enquiries@harpercollins.co.uk

Visit: https://harpercollins.co.uk/

A great gift for babies is a sensory book designed just for them. This Personalised High Contrast Black and White Baby Book from Personalised Memento Company (PMC) has been specially created to aid in visual development.

With simple lines and bold patterns, the designs are easier for babies to see. Research has shown that high contrast images help to encourage cognitive development without them feeling over-stimulated.

Simply get in touch with PMC to discover more about how personalised gifts can work for your business.

Email: sales@personalisedmemento.co.uk

Visit: www.personalisedmemento.co.uk

Jingle all the play!

Unwrap all the excitement this festive season with House of Marbles’ Christmas collection

As the festive countdown begins, House of Marbles invites retailers to explore its extensive range of Christmas products and discover how they can cater to their customers’ Yuletide inventory.

Whether the search is on for standout Christmas gift ideas, grotto presents, or eco-friendly gifts, there is something for everyone.

With more than ﬁve decades of experience in supporting businesses, House of Marbles has the perfect toys, games, gifts, marbles and books to make every store the North Pole of Christmas shopping.

The company develops and handpicks its Christmas range, ensuring a wide array of products that suit every taste and budget. The extensive collection has grown massively over the years, and everything it supplies meets a very strict criteria with regards to quality, value and entertainment. House of Marbles products guarantee to bring extra cheer, with delightful gifts for the whole family.

The Penguin Pairs memory match game introduces a seasonal twist to a family favourite and is sure to entertain, making it an ideal stocking ﬁller or grotto gift.

For card game enthusiasts, Christmas Happy Families is a playful update to the classic game, with seasonal characters like Robins, Snowmen, and Cherubs o ering a unique set that everyone will know and enjoy.

Let creativity shine with Christmas Scratch Art, where children can design vibrant rainbow ornaments for the Christmas tree. Complete with two sustainably sourced wooden styluses and various silver and gold ribbons, this product is a staple arts & crafts item for this festive season.

And for those who want to bring a musical touch to the celebrations, House of Marbles’ Christmas Wooden Handbells are ideal. Crafted from eco-friendly wood, these handbells will add charm - and noise - to any gathering.

If that wasn’t enough festive fun, House of Marbles’ product catalogue has plenty more entertaining items. There’s a range of gifts at various prices to suit all, and carriage-paid orders start from just £200.

Make sure you visit the House of Marbles website to stay up-to-date with its new arrivals - and check out an exciting Christmas competition where you can win new products from its 2025 range. There’s no shortage of novelty toys and games to choose from!

Sustainable selection

House of Marbles

House of Marbles is dedicated to reducing the use of single-use plastic in product packaging across its entire range. With each new product designed, the company makes modiﬁcations to eliminate or minimise plastic wherever possible.

As a traditional toys and games company, many House of Marbles products are crafted from wood. This is a key area where the company is as environmentally responsible as possible, and it is proud to use wood from Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certiﬁed suppliers, ensuring the sustainability of its products.

House of Marbles o ers a selection of budget-friendly FSC toys, games, gifts, and novelties, that are perfect for stocking ﬁllers and grotto gifts this Christmas. Among these, the Christmas Scratch Art Set and Santa’s Silly Stocking Search memory game stand out as popular choices, promising a fun and eco-friendly holiday season.

Call: 01626 835358

Email: uk@houseofmarbles.com

Visit: https://tradeuk.houseofmarbles.com/

Eco chic

Namaste

Namaste presents sustainable gift wrap and bottle bags crafted from repurposed saris, in a vibrant array of colours and patterns. The wraps not only serve as ecofriendly gift packaging but also double up as reusable accessories.

Each piece is designed with versatility in mind, perfect for use as a hair wrap, headscarf or makeup bag. Edged with neat stitching, they combine practicality with style. Patterns and colours will vary, ensuring that every item is unique. Elevate your gifting experience while embracing sustainability with these chic, multi-functional products.

Call: 01756 700790

Email: sales@namaste-uk.com | Visit: namaste-uk.com

Taking strides

Talking Tables

Talking Tables is continuing its sustainability journey with its S/S25 collection, with signiﬁcant strides into reusability and recycled materials. The moves are supported by customer research suggesting growing awareness of sustainability issues and the B Corp movement.Talking Tables has been a B Corp since 2022.

Many of the initiatives centre on its new launch for the season entitled Bon Appetit, which reﬂects the growing propensity for both more relaxed dining and a fusion of al fresco and indoor hosting trends.

The collection centres around enamel plates, bowls and candle holders. The products are hardwearing, shatterproof and dishwasher-safe, and thus lost-lasting. There are also cotton gingham tablecloths and dual purpose napkins-come-tea towels.

Nature inspired

St. Eval

Bring the magic into your home this festive season with a sustainable, eco-friendly gift from St. Eval. Nestled in the heart of the Cornish north coast, St. Eval is a proud B Corp-certiﬁed candles and home fragrance brand, that places people and the planet at the heart of everything it does.

Inspired by its coastal and countryside surroundings, St. Eval handcrafts evocative scents of festive favourites such as Orange & Cinnamon, Winter Thyme, Figgy Pudding, and Inspiritus. Each fragrance is adorned with new and unique illustrations.

Thoughtfully made and with sustainability at the core, these beautifully scented, luxurious candles are meaningful gifts for bringing warmth and Christmas cheer to any home.

Call: 01841 540850

Email: info@st-eval.com | Visit: https://www.st-eval.com

At the same time, Talking Tables is prioritising moving towards recycled materials. For S/S, 70% of packaging is made from recycled materials, as are all paper napkins, excluding a small number of die cut styles. And after working with recycled fabric o cuts for Christmas 2023, this season sees the introduction of recycled plastic bunting and oversized tote bags.

Call: 020 7627 6767

Email: info@talking tables.co.uk | Visit: https://trade.talkingtables.co.uk/

Homegrown

Seedball

British brand Seedball is on a mission to help increase the abundance of British wildﬂowers and wildlife that depend upon them. Its beautifully illustrated Herb Tubes contain 20 seed balls, each ﬁlled with seeds from aromatic herbs including, basil, chive, mint, parsley, and wild rocket salad.

The herbs not only add delicious flavours to our favourite dishes, but the plants also provide vital food for pollinators. When left to bloom, each herb bursts with wonderful wildflowers, o ering a colourful display in the garden, as well as a hearty meal for bees, butterflies and other bugs!

Each Herb Tube covers approximately one square metre, or three to ﬁve medium-sized pots - perfect for wildlife gardens, window boxes and balconies.

Call: 020 8802 5565 | Email: hello@seedball.co.uk

Visit: www.seedball.co.uk

“Every small step counts”

Andrew Goodacre , CEO of Bira (British Independent Retailers Association), talks all things sustainability and explains why retailers need to embrace change for the good

With the retail landscape continuing to evolve, perhaps there is no challenge as pressing or as universal as the need for sustainability in our industry.

As independent retailers, we have a unique opportunity - and responsibility - to lead the charge in creating a more sustainable and circular economy.

The concept of sustainability in retail goes far beyond simply o ering eco-friendly products. It’s about reimagining our entire business model, from sourcing and packaging to energy use and waste management.

The circular economy takes this a step further, aiming to eliminate waste and maximise resource use through continuous reuse, repair, and recycling.

Consumer attitudes towards sustainability are evolving rapidly. Many shoppers are now actively trying to reduce their environmental impact and increasingly expect the same from the brands they support.

Research suggests that a significant portion of consumers are influenced by businesses demonstrating strong sustainability credentials. This shift in consumer behaviour represents a significant opportunity for independent retailers who can authentically embrace sustainable practices.

While exact ﬁgures may vary depending on the study and demographic, the overall trend is clear. Sustainability is becoming a key factor in consumer decision-making. As independent retailers, we are well-positioned to respond to this trend in agile and meaningful ways.

Sustainability often goes hand-in-hand with e ciency and cost savings. By reducing waste, minimising packaging, and optimising energy use, retailers can signiﬁcantly cut operational costs. For instance, switching to LED lighting or installing

solar panels can lead to substantial savings on energy bills over time.

But perhaps most importantly, as independent retailers deeply rooted in our local communities, we have a responsibility to be good stewards of our environment. Our actions can have a ripple e ect, inspiring customers and other businesses to make more sustainable choices.

“Sustainability is becoming a key factor in consumer decision-making”

So, how can independent retailers start their sustainability journey? Here are a few practical steps:

• O er eco-friendly products. Look for suppliers who prioritise sustainability in their manufacturing processes.

• Minimise packaging. Opt for minimal, recyclable, or biodegradable packaging options.

• Implement a recycling programme. Make it easy for customers to recycle or return products at the end of their lifecycle.

• Reduce energy consumption. Switch to energye cient lighting and appliances, and consider renewable energy sources.

• Educate customers. Share information about your sustainability e orts and how customers can participate.

• Join initiatives like #BeatTheReceipt: The Paperless Pledge. Commit to making paper receipts optional, reducing paper waste.

At Bira, we’re committed to supporting our members in this crucial transition. We’ve developed a Sustainability Policy to guide our own practices and o er resources to help independent retailers implement sustainable strategies.

We’re also proud sponsors of The Sustainable Business Podcast, which o ers valuable insights into sustainable business practices.

Embracing sustainability and the circular economy isn’t just about being environmentally responsible - it’s about future-prooﬁng your business. As regulations tighten and consumer expectations evolve, sustainable practices will become increasingly crucial for business success.

The journey towards sustainability may seem daunting, but remember, every small step counts. Start with what you can manage today, and gradually build on your e orts. As a community of independent retailers, our collective actions can make a signiﬁcant impact.

As we look to the future of independent retail, let’s commit to being at the forefront of sustainable business practices. By doing so, we’re not just ensuring the longevity of our own businesses, but contributing to a healthier planet for future generations.

Together, we can create a retail landscape that’s not only proﬁtable but also sustainable and circular. The time to act is now: our planet, our customers, and our future depend on it.

Call: 0800 028 0245

Visit: www.bira.co.uk

2025 Exhibition Guide

JANUARY

The Gift Fair by Xpofairs

When: January 8-February 28 Web: thegiftfair.com

Harrogate Christmas & Gift Fair

When: January 12-15

Where: Harrogate Convention Centre, Yorkshire Web: harrogatefair.com

Top Drawer S/S25

When: January 12-14

Where: Olympia, London Web: topdrawer.co.uk

Giving & Living

When: January 12-14

Where: Westpoint, Exeter Web: givingliving.co.uk

Scotland’s Trade Fair

Spring

When: January 19-21

Where: SEC, Glasgow Web: scotlandstradefairs.com

Speciality Food & Drink Show

When: January 19-21

Where: SEC, Glasgow Web: scotlandstradefairs.com

Toy Fair

When: January 21-23

Where: Olympia, London Web: toyfair.co.uk

FEBRUARY

Spring Fair

When: February 2-5

Where: NEC, Birmingham Web: springfair.com

Source Home & Gift

When: February 2-5

Where: NEC, Birmingham Web: source-homeandgift.com

The Source Trade Show

When: February 4-5

Where: Westpoint, Exeter Web: thesourcetradeshow.co.uk

Pure London X JATC

When: February 9-11

Where: Kensington Olympia, London Web: purelondon.com

Scoop International

When: February 9-11

Where: Olympia West, Kensington, London Web: scoop-international.com

INDX Home Show

When: February 18-19

Where: Cranmore Park, Solihull Web: indxshows.co.uk

Source Fashion

When: February 18-20

Where: Olympia, London Web: source-fashion.com

CHSI Stitches

When: February 23-24

Where: NEC, Birmingham Web: chsi.co.uk

MARCH

The London Book Fair

When: March 11-13

Where: Olympia, London Web: londonbookfair.co.uk

The Creative Craft Show

When: March 13-16

Where: NEC, Birmingham Web: creativecraftshow.co.uk

Ideal Home Show

When: March 21-April 6

Where: Olympia, London Web: idealhomeshow.co.uk

APRIL

Farm Shop & Deli Show

When: April 7-9

Where: NEC, Birmingham Web: farmshopanddelishow.co.uk

Food & Drink Expo

When: April 7-9

Where: NEC, Birmingham Web: foodanddrinkexpo.co.uk

MAY

NOPEX: Natural & Organic Products Expo

When: May 12-13

Where: ExCeL, London Web: naturalproducts.co.uk

London Stationery Show

When: May 13-14

Where: Business Design Centre, London Web: stationeryshowlondon.co.uk

The Museums + Heritage Show

When: May 14-15

Where: Olympia, London Web: show.museumsandheritage.com

INDX Gift Food Show

When: May 20

Where: Cranmore Park, Solihull Web: indxshows.co.uk

Toymaster May Show

When: May 20-22

Where: Majestic Hotel, Ripon Road, Harrogate, Yorkshire Web: toymastermayshow.co.uk

Clerkenwell Design Week

When: May 20-22

Where: Clerkenwell, London Web: clerkenwelldesignweek.com

JUNE

Progressive Greetings Live

When: June 3-4

Where: Business Design Centre, London Web: progressivegreetingslive.co.uk

Exclusively Show

When: June 10-11

Where: Business Design Centre, London Web: exclusivelyshows.co.uk

JULY

New Designers

When: July 2-12

Where: Business Design Centre, London Web: newdesigners.com

Home & Gift Buyers‘ Festival

When: July 20-23

Where: Harrogate Convention Centre, Kings Road, North Yorkshire Web: homeandgift.co.uk

AUGUST

The Jewellery Show

When: August 31-September 1

Where: Olympia, London Web: thejewelleryshow.co.uk

SEPTEMBER

INDX Toys Show

When: September 2-3

Where: Cranmore Park, Solihull Web: indxshows.co.uk

Autumn Fair

When: September 7-10

Where: NEC, Birmingham Web: autumnfair.com

Top Drawer A/W25

When: September 14-16

Where: Olympia, London Web: topdrawer.co.uk

Glee

When: September 16-18

Where: NEC, Birmingham Web: gleebirmingham.com

OCTOBER

Brand Licensing Europe

When: October 7-9

Where: ExCeL, London Web: brandlicensing.eu

Harrogate International Nursery Fair

When: October 12-14

Where: Harrogate Convention Centre, Kings Road, North Yorkshire Web: nurseryfair.com

Decorex

When: October 12-15

Where: Olympia Events, London Web: decorex.com

NOVEMBER

Land Leisure & Tourism Show

When: November 5-6

Where: NEC, Birmingham Web: lltshow.com

WORLDWIDE DATES

JANUARY

Atlanta Winter Market

When: January 14-20

Where: AmericasMart, Atlanta, Georgia, USA Web: atlantamarket.com

Maison&Objet

When: January 16-20

Where: Paris Nord Villepinte, Paris, France Web: maison-objet.com

Formex

When: January 17-19

Where: Stockholmsmassen, Alvsjo, Sweden Web: formex.se

Showcase Ireland

When: January 19-21

Where: RDS, Dublin, Ireland Web: showcaseireland.com

Milano HOME

When: January 23-26

Where: Fiera Milano, Milan, Italy Web: milanohome.com

Spielwarenmesse

When: January 28-February 1

Where: Nuremberg Exhibition Center, Nuremberg, Germany Web: spielwarenmesse.de

FEBRUARY

ShowUp

When: February 2-3

Where: EXPO Greater Amsterdam, The Netherlands Web: showup.nl

NY Now

When: February 2-4

Where: Javits Centre, New York City, New York, USA Web: nynow.com

Intergift

When: February 5-8

Where: IFEMA Madrid, Spain Web: ifema.es

Ambiente

When: February 7-11

Where: Frankfurt am Main, Germany Web: ambiente.messefrankfurt.com

Christmasworld

When: February 7-11

Where: Frankfurt am Main, Germany Web: christmasworld.messefrankfurt.com

Creativeworld

When: February 7-10

Where: Frankfurt am Main, Germany Web: creativeworld.messefrankfurt.com

MARCH

The Inspired Home Show

When: March 2-4

Where: McCormick Place, Chicago, USA Web: theinspiredhomeshow.com

APRIL

IHGF Delhi Fair Spring

When: April 16-19

Where: India Expo Centre & Mart, Greater Noida, Delhi, India Web: springfairdelhi.com

DG Taiwan (Designed Giftionery Taiwan)

When: April 17-20

Where: Taipei World Trade Center Exhibition Building, Taipei City, Taiwan Web: dgtaiwan.com

HKTDC Hong Kong Gifts & Premium Fair

When: April 27-30

Where: HKCEC, Hong Kong Web: hktdc.com/event/ hkgiftspremiumfair/en

Home InStyle

When: April 27-30

Where: HKCEC, Hong Kong Web: hktdc.com/event/homeinstyle/en

Fashion InStyle

When: April 27-30

Where: HKCEC, Hong Kong Web: hktdc.com/event/fashioninstyle/en

Hong Kong International Licensing Show and Asian Licensing Conference

When: April 28-30

Where: HKCEC, Hong Kong Web: hktdc.com/event/ hklicensingshow/en

MAY

Licensing Expo

When: May 20-22

Where: Mandalay Bay Convention Center, Las Vegas, USA Web: licensingexpo.com

JULY

Atlanta Summer Market

When: July 15-21

Where: AmericasMart, Atlanta, USA Web: atlantamarket.com

SEPTEMBER

Intergift

When: September 10-13

Where: IFEMA, Madrid, Spain Web: ifema.es

Maison&Objet

When: September 4-8

Where: Paris Nord Villepinte, Paris, France Web: maison-objet.com

Gift-giving occasions

• Galentine’s Day: February 13

• St. Valentine’s Day: February 14

• Easter: April 18-20

• Mother’s Day: March 30

• Pride Month: June 1–30

• Father’s Day: June 15

• Grandparents’ Day: October 5

• Halloween: October 31

• Christmas Day: December 25

Every effort has been made to ensure that the information in this guide is correct at the time of going to press, but we recommend that you check details before departure

Time for something new

Billed as the ﬁrst online trade show for the gift industry, The Gift Fair takes place between January 8 and February 28 100 brands exhibiting, from well-established companies to those just starting out, there are plenty of new products to see! Here is a little taster of some of the many names taking part…

Home Fragrances

cycling enthusiasts. Its bright and eclectic range of colourful products and gifts is designed to make the everyday a bit less ordinary.

Jewellery

F.Y.G. creates scents that evoke memories, feeling and mood. Its modern designs ﬁt in and enhance any space. It has multiple ranges, including a new range called Botanicals. Like all F.Y.G. products, this is beautifully packaged, making the perfect gift. The product range include candles, di users body lotions and much more. F.Y.G. is also sustainable; each product is 100% natural and recyclable.

Greeting cards

it can lower our impact on the planet and provide people with smarter, more sustainable options. It creates beautiful tableware for a variety of occasions including Christmas, Diwali, Mother’s Day, and afternoon tea, with a variety of themes.

Self-Care

Cheeky Legends greeting cards is a family-friendly character brand set in a humorous fairy tale world. Its cute, free-spirited wizards and gnomes subtly promote body conﬁdence and a simpler lifestyle. Starting with greeting cards, it aims to expand into a variety of gift items and novelty books, and plans to license its brand to venture into exciting new markets - spreading the legend far and wide! Cheeky Legends also won The Gift Fair Future Star Award, so it’s making waves in the gift industry!

Toys

Inside Out Toys is a familyowned toy company which is run from an eco-farm in the heart of Northamptonshire. It specialises in environmentally friendly children's gifts and toys, including beautiful traditional wooden toys, art supplies and handcrafted rag dolls. It has eight top quality brands, all chosen based on their sustainability. These include Scrunch, Viking Toys, Jumini and Tikiri.

Rex London creates a variety of gifts for children or the home, o ering everything from random fun gifts to bath mats for the home. It covers all bases, with gifts for dog lovers, cooks and

Timi of Sweden is a Swedish fashion and lifestyle brand specialising in jewellery and gift products. It’s run by a husband-and-wife duo who are aesthetic enthusiasts and operate their business from the Swedish countryside. They create handmade gift products that put a smile on your face. They o er water-resistant pieces and meaningful jewellery with beautiful messages for a variety of occasions, including birthdays, weddings and graduations, as well as paper products and accessories.

Accessories

Campo Marzio o ers vibrant ontrend writing instruments and accessories with heaps of Italian sophistication and colour, from bags for men and women and desk accessories to notebooks and glasses. The company's vision sums up Campo Marzio's identity: living the ordinary in an extraordinary way - a philosophy that allows for a di erent vision of the everyday. Campo Marzio creations give colour and emphasis to every moment of the day.

Partyware

Talking Tables has a desire to bring people together. It’s something that feels even more poignant, having recently experienced long periods of pandemic isolation. However, it’s not just about making great party pieces (although they really are great!); the company is constantly thinking about how

Clarity Blend aromatherapy products are 100% natural with true wellness beneﬁts to help you sleep better, boost your energy or uplift your mood. Sounds like the perfect gift! Its product ranges include pamper kits, di users, candles, essentials oils and pulse point rollers.

Stationery

Good Tuesday is a UK-based startup and certiﬁed B Corp. This female-led brand creates stationery for people who want to organise all areas of their lives, in style. From design-led annual calendars to diaries, weekly planners and notebooks, all products are printed in England and created in a sustainably conscious and ethical way.

Fair-trade Gifts

Shared Earth o ers Fair-trade, eco, recycled and ethical gifts. These range from fashion and home & garden to cards & stationery, fragrance and lifestyle. It provides soft toys, socks, books, jewellery and many more gifts, while tackling the climate crisis and aiming to create a fairer, more sustainable world.

Ethiqana sources and curates handmade products you can’t ﬁnd on the high street, that also preserve eco-friendly, nearly extinct crafts through sustainable livelihoods. Its amazing gift shop has something for all occasions: home, garden, celebrations and play.

F.Y.G.

Campo Marzio

Inside Out Toys

Cheeky Legends

Harrogate Christmas & Gift

Prepare to be amazed!

With nine halls of the Harrogate Convention Centre packed with every product imaginable for the festive season, it’s hardly surprising that gift retailers and buyers are eagerly anticipating Harrogate Christmas & Gift in January

Celebrating its 75th anniversary in 2025, Harrogate Christmas & Gift is the only UK trade show which caters speciﬁcally for the festive industry. It attracts visitors from around the world seeking the latest innovations to add sparkle - not just to Christmas, but to any calendar event that is enhanced with decorations, luminations and gifts, from Easter, Diwali, Hanukkah and Ramadan to baby showers, weddings and birthday celebrations.

The longevity of Harrogate Christmas & Gift is hardly surprising given the magical atmosphere of the event and, as anyone who has attended the fair over the years will testify, there is simply no other trade show like it.

If sparkling lights; glittery baubles; the aromas of pine cones, cinnamon and nutmeg; and the sounds of jingling bells and Christmas carols ﬁll you with delight - then this show has all that on steroids!

The beauty for gift retailers is that amongst all the festive paraphernalia, they will also ﬁnd amazing and unique gifts for almost every occasion, including home and garden ware, pet gifts, and even ranges to tantalise the taste buds.

True Origin (Stand QS17) is one such exhibitor promising gifts that are a little bit di erent. Its range claims to be an assortment of fair, ﬁne and ethically good gifts which are good for both people and the planet. Its Beer Bread kit from South Africa creates homemade happiness as a versatile stocking ﬁller that can be paired with favourite beers or soda waters for bread, pizza bases, pretzels, bagels, tacos and nachos. The company also has gift sets with exotic jam, marmalade and sauces and, for chilli fans, there’s a range of hot sauces.

Another exhibitor promising to bring a smile to your customers is Hairy Fairy Gifts (Stand A14) which will introduce its exclusive line of body-positive Fat Fairies - each hand crafted with charm and personality. From whimsical ornaments to cheerful tabletop pieces, the entire collection will add colour and a touch of humour to your displays.

Sienna Glass (Stand Conference Centre CC2) will showcase its popular handcrafted Christmas trees: each meticulously crafted, standing at 20cm, and featuring vibrant

colours and intricate detail, making them perfect ornaments and also gifts. These glass trees have fast become a customer favourite, cherished for their quality and timeless appeal.

Harrogate Christmas & Gift promises sparkles - and History & Heraldry (Stand B6) certainly o ers this with its new Sparkle Shopper Bag adding a touch of glitter to the Christmas shopping experience. This stylish, eco-friendly tote folds into a pouch for easy storage. It’s made from recycled bottles and is available in six gorgeous designs, each with foiled sparkling sentiments.

Show organiser Simon Anslow commented: “The ingenuity and innovative nature of products launched at Harrogate Christmas & Gift each year never fails to amaze me. Even if you attend every single year and think you’ve seen it all, I can guarantee you will be blown away by numerous exciting new product launches.

“This is why the show is so popular with a diverse range of buyers, from garden centres, heritage centres and tourist attractions, to independent retailers and department stores. There is absolutely something for everyone.”

Entry to Harrogate Christmas & Gift is free to all trade visitors. For more information, visit www.harrogatefair.com.

What: Harrogate Christmas & Gift

Where: Harrogate Convention Centre, North Yorkshire

When: January 12-15 2025

Email: simon@harrogatefair.com

Visit: www.harrogatefair.com

Sienna Glass

History & Heraldry

True Origin

Hairy Fairy Gifts

Harrogate Christmas & Gift Years

Spring

Scotland remains strong for independents

Organised by Springboard Events, Scotland’s Trade Fair Spring is over 90% booked, after strong sales in independent retailers across Scotland

Despite a soggy summer in Scotland, visitors have continued to come and seek out the high quality gifts on o er, the friendly welcome, and the nation’s hospitality. Most independent retailers have reported an increase in sales on last year, and are looking to stock up and source new items at Scotland’s only trade gift show.

Taking place at the SEC in Glasgow from January 19 to January 21, Scotland’s Trade Fair Spring allows buyers from far and wide to source and order a wide range of gifts, homewares, crafts, jewellery, textiles and accessories.

Scottish brands continue to be popular, with an emphasis on quality and value for money. Ones to look out for at the 2025 Show are Eribe, Dook of Edinburgh, Cath Waters, Ocean Plastic Pots, Scottish Fine Soaps, Neon Magpie, Scott’s Apothecary and Mclaggan & Co.

Love the launch

First stop for many buyers is the Launch Gallery in the centre of the Show, where they will be inspired by products from new young companies such as Woolkind, Malmo Home, The Wee Engraving Company, Hilary Jane Keyes knitwear, Brilliantly Brave greeting cards, and Anke Rainbow Art & Jewellery.

For those looking for more mainstream products, suppliers such as Sea Gems, Joya, Upper Canada, Xystos, Paper Sheep, AC Jade, Aether & Nox, Gold Trip and Tipperary will have large stands highlighting their new ranges for 2025.

Crafted with style

Artisan products are housed in the Craft Gallery with its array of artistic creators such as Agate & Ayre accessories, BAKKA, Ruby Jones jewellery, Orraman Leather, Lolla Mac jewellery, Rosana Exposito sustainable fashion, and Freya Mabel Makes tapestries. Independent retailer Soni Ahmed, co-owner of Maia Gifts in Glasgow, commented: “We’ve seen a 25% increase in sales from the same period last year and have seen tourist levels grow, especially from the U.S. where tourists love all things Scottish. By selecting the right products, we continue to do well. Scotland’s Trade Fair Spring is an absolute ‘must attend’ event so we can increase our o ering of local products.”

Talking Shop

Scotland’s Trade Fair Spring o ers more than just sourcing and buying; it’s about learning too. With a rich programme of panel discussions, educational talks and practical masterclasses on all aspects of retailing from digital to tourist updates, and sustainability tips to retail trends, this is the place to learn how to improve your business and retail skills and be inspired by highly acclaimed experts.

Finally, The Best Product Awards, which are sponsored by The Giftware Association, will take on a new format in 2025 with a dazzling display of winners in the centre of the Show.

Show director Mark Saunders said: “We recognise how key this Show is for retailersacross not just Scotland but the rest of the UK and overseas - to come and look, feel and discover products that will increase their sales. By attending, you can be assured you’ll be ahead of your competitors in sourcing new ranges and new stock for 2025. Ensure this date is ﬁrmly in your diary.”

What: Scotland’s Trade Fair

Where: SEC, Glasgow

When: January 19-21 2025

Call: 01877 385772

Email: info@springboardevents.com

Visit: www.scotlandstradefairs.com

Toy Fair gifts the future of play

Experience the future of the UK’s giftware and toy landscape at Toy Fair , where visitors can expect a vibrant and exciting show, jam-packed with the latest toys, crazes, and demonstrations

As the UK’s first toy event of the year, Toy Fair offers attendees the first glimpse and hands-on experience of new launches set to capture the market across 2025. From plush toys, construction toys and tech toys, to boardgames, puzzles and collectibles, there really is something for everyone.

The exhibition spans multiple halls at Olympia London - the Grand, National, and Upper West Hall - and 2025’s showcase will feature the newly branded Gold Zone (formerly The Greenhouse): a dedicated area focused on emerging companies poised to impact the toy market significantly.

Additionally, Anna Williamson and Gav Inskip remain a popular addition to the show format. They will once again host Toy Fair TV, providing ongoing coverage, interviews, and product demonstrations live from the show floor.

Another significant aspect of the event is the Toy Fair’s Hero Toys awards, which identify and honour the most innovative products set to shape the coming year in the toy industry.

Toy Fair 2025 represents a vital opportunity for industry professionals to explore and engage with the future of toy and game development. Buyers in attendance can also take advantage of exclusive on-site retail offers at the show.

Spotlight on newcomers and innovation

This year, Toy Fair is delighted to introduce notable newcomers Hallmark and Little Dutch. Hallmark - which is known for greeting cards but also produces a range of gift products - will showcase its latest offerings, while Little Dutch will offer toys and accessories for babies and children.

Other new faces include Puzzle Post UK, which delivers fun through the letterbox; Pop-Up Games, which provides classic boardgame entertainment, pop-up books and traditional gifts; and Puckator, which will exhibit gift and toy ranges for all ages.

Returning to the show is established industry giant Lego. No stranger to innovation, Toy Fair provides the perfect backdrop to unveil its new offerings. Exciting new building kits have emerged that artfully bridge the gap between play and decorative artistry, from botanical centrepieces to

famous masterpieces. This kind of innovation serves to underscore Lego’s commitment to catering for a wide range of interests and age groups.

Making the most of Toy Fair

Preparation is key for attendees, who are encouraged to review the exhibitor list on the Toy Fair website and book meetings in advance. With such a diverse range of displays, strategic planning is essential for a comprehensive experience.

The breadth of companies exhibiting at the 2025 event is wide and varied, from large manufacturers to small startups, which cover a variety of categories including toys, games, puzzles and more.

As the marketplace evolves, Toy Fair 2025 remains at the forefront, not only reflecting current trends but also shaping the future of how toys and giftware engage and educate.

If you’d like to experience Toy Fair, visit www.toyfair.co.uk/ to register.

What: Toy Fair 2025

Where: Olympia London

When: January 21- 23 2025

Call: 020 7701 7127

Email: Rebecca@btha.co.uk

Visit: https://www.toyfair.co.uk

Celebrating a rich heritage

Spring Fair sparks connections, broadens horizons, and enables opportunities for the wholesale home, gift, fashion and everyday retail communities to thrive

In 2025, Spring Fair will celebrate its 75 years of rich heritage from February 2-5 at the NEC in Birmingham. Inaugurated by the Queen in 1975 when it moved to the NEC from Blackpool, and endorsed by retail icons over the decades, Spring Fair has remained a trusted marketplace for buyers of retailers, large and small.

The show attracts more than 38,000 attendees with a combined budget of £2.25 billion. And in 2025, there will be over 1,200 exhibitors in 12 buying destinations dedicated to Home, Gift, Fashion and Everyday, and over 1 million products with 38% available exclusively at Spring Fair - so there’s endless opportunities to ﬁnd your next bestsellers.

The 2025 anniversary edition promises to be one of the most eagerly anticipated in the event’s history, with an unprecedented lineup of industry-leading brands and newcomers. This milestone event will bring the retail community together under one roof, creating an all-encompassing place for home, gift and fashion brands to meet buyers face-to-face, to trade, inspire and learn.

The burgeoning Gift destination, which encompasses Gift, Beauty & Wellbeing, Kids, Toys & Play, Greetings, Party & Celebration, remains one of the most sought-after categories. The sector will see huge growth for 2025, with Hall 4 already sold out and more space being added to Hall 5 to meet demand.

Brands which are securing their spots early to take advantage of the buzz surrounding this historic event include Sifcon, Lesser & Pavey, Candlelight, Joe Davies, Enesco, Widdop & Co., Chalk UK, Kikkerland, Gift Republic, and hundreds more.

With nearly 700 gift exhibitors and over 15,000 visitors interested in gift items, Spring Fair is billed as the largest and most comprehensive gift marketplace in the UK.

Highlights for 2025 include a growing roster of licensed, eco-friendly, and British-made products that align with emerging trends, catering to buyers interested in diversifying their o ers.

Spring Fair event director Soraya Gadelrab said: “It’s been incredible to feel and see the momentum build for Spring Fair 2025. The desire for brands to take part in this milestone event is palpable.

“And it’s not just the Gift destination that’s seeing extraordinary growth. The Home destination is over 85% sold out, The Summerhouse has expanded by 30% - with many brands increasing their stand sizes to showcase bigger collections - while in Moda, we’ve seen a surge in fashion accessories and jewellery brands. There are so many reasons to be part of Spring Fair’s 75th edition.”

With accessible transport links, NEC Birmingham places Spring Fair at the heart of UK retail, providing an ideal setting for retailers to source products, form connections, and gain cutting-edge insights. Visit www.springfair.com to be part of the 75th anniversary show.

What: Spring Fair

Where: NEC Birmingham

When: February 2-5 2025

Visit: www.springfair.com

‘Welcome to the world of presents’

Ambiente show director Yvonne Engelmann gives Gifts Today a snapshot of the vast array of gifts on o er at the Frankfurt show, which takes place in February

Tell us a little bit about Ambiente.

Exhibitors from all relevant product segments present their o erings at Ambiente, from gifts, tableware, glassware, and kitchen supplies to stationery, school supplies, home accessories, interior design, and o ce solutions.

Ambiente Giving celebrates the diversity of giving. What kind of products can attendees expect to see in this area?

Ambiente Giving in Hall 4.2 welcomes visitors to the world of presents and personal accessories - whether trendy gifts, stationery, greeting cards, writing utensils, school supplies, bags or souvenirs.

With the variety at Urban Gifts, Stationery & School, Hall 4.2 is the place to be. The special presentation Ms. Paper & Friends in the foyer of this very hall shows how a fresh mix of merchandise can inspire customers directly at the point of sale.

With nearly 300 exhibitors, visitors to Ambiente Giving at Urban Gifts, Stationery & School can expect an exceptionally diverse, high-quality and attractive range of products.

Hall 4.2 is one of the halls with the greatest variety of suppliers, and boasts a colourful selection of wares which will inspire and invite visitors to discover new items for their core and additional assortments.

The proximity to Ambiente Living and Working (in Halls 3.0 and 3.1), Christmasworld (Halls 4.0 and 4.1), and the Global Sourcing section of Chrismasworld (Hall 6.2.) - with their overlapping segments - ensures even more synergies.

How can Ambiente Giving keep up with upcoming trends in the gift industry?

In Frankfurt, we believe business owners and buyers can see an unmatched variety of gifting ranges as well as the trends at point of sale.

We bring together great international brands such as for School: Apli Paper, Ancor and Factis; for Stationery: A.T. Cross Company, Caran d’Ache, H&M Gutberlet, Lindocatelli, Monteverde-Conklin, Platinum Pen, Rössler, Ray & Bluestone, Trodat, Waldmann and Thong Yeong Corporation/Laban Pen; and for Urban Gifts: Artebene, Balvi Gifts, Collection Design, Enesco, Kikkerland, Legami, Marna, Printworks Sweden, Troika Germany, 24Bottles, Senz Umbrellas and UK Greetings.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I recommend our popular Conzoom Solutions Academy and the Future of Work Academy, which o er excellent expert talks on the most pressing trade topics. At both academies, February 11 will be ‘Sustainability Day’, with keynotes, best practices, and a lot of food for thought to take home.

And the Ambiente Trends25+ presentation in Foyer Hall 4.1 brings to the fore which shapes, colours and materials will deﬁne modern living spaces in the future and, thus, shape

the product ranges for dining, living, giving, and working. Sustainable products and circular materials play an important role here. Moreover, we also see a general trend towards more sustainability. Consumption is becoming more conscious; consumers expect sustainable solutions at the point of sale. Accordingly, the topic is becoming increasingly important for many companies.

We see it reﬂected, for example, in the number of participants of our special interest Ethical Style. This programme is our dedicated answer to the question of how to market sustainable products and solutions. It’s worth mentioning that we will celebrate its 10th anniversary in 2025. We are seeing an increase of participants year after year. So this topic is gaining momentum.

Another go-to place for ethically produced goods is Hall 10.4 for home accessories and contemporary crafts, with a comprehensive Ethical Style o ering and diverse international range in Ambiente Global Sourcing.

PHOTOS: Messe Frankfurt Exhibition GmbH / Jean-Luc Valentin

For years, importers and manufacturers have found reliable and strong partners in the sourcing area for volume business, ranging from industrially produced to handmade goods from all over the world. Global Sourcing will cover seven hall levels at the coming Ambiente and Christmasworld.

For the volume business, you can discover even more Stationery & School items in Hall 10.0 and Gifts & Home Decorations in Hall 10.1 as well as Christmas & Seasonal Decoration in Hall 6.2.

Last but not least, get well prepared for your visit, because the o er on display is so immense. Use our online exhibitor search, and transfer important dates from the event calendar to your personal calendar. We look forward to your visit to Frankfurt in February 2025!

What: Ambiente 2025

Where: Frankfurt am Main, Germany

When: February 7-11

Call: +49 69 75 75-0

Email: ambiente@messefrankfurt.com

Visit: https://ambiente.messefrankfurt.com/frankfurt/en.html

The Inspired Home Show

Chicago calling!

Celebrating its 125th anniversary in March, The Inspired Home Show in Chicago is the place to engage with established and emerging brands, and explore everything new and next in home and housewares

One key reason for international buyers to visit The Inspired Home Show in Chicago is to ﬁnd innovative new products and brands to di erentiate their product o ering and concepts.

In addition to high-quality, high-design global brands, the Show features the entire product lines of leading and emerging U.S. housewares brands, product suppliers and designers - not just the products pre-selected for export markets displayed at non-U.S. shows. Buyers have a chance to ﬁnd innovative new products and product lines that are not yet available in other markets.

Featuring exhibitors from more than 40 countries, the Show is organised into ﬁve expos: Dine + Décor, Clean + Contain, Travel Gear + Luggage, Wired + Well, and International Sourcing Expo.

Some of the Show’s unique activations to assist with product discovery include:

• Pantone ColorWatch Display: a special exhibit by Pantone focusing on colour palettes representing the strongest home furnishings trends for 2025/2026. Each story includes the individual Pantone colours, the philosophy behind the colour palette, and actual show products illustrating each palette.

• Inventor’s Corner: a pavilion of inventors showcasing their freshest product creations.

• New Product Showcases: curated displays of products never before seen at the Show.

• gia Product Design Display: exhibitors’ latest creations and cutting-edge innovations with award recognition, recognising ﬁve ﬁnalists in 14 product categories.

• gia Student Design Display: up-and-coming product designers from college and university programmes o er their ideas to the industry.

• New Exhibitor Preview Gallery: ﬁrst-time exhibitors showcase their products to buyers and news media.

Chicago is also a great destination for housewares retail benchmarking. Leading home and housewares retailers such as Williams Sonoma, Crate & Barrel, Sur La Table, and The Container Store have Chicago ﬂagship stores, where you’ll be able to discover innovative merchandising and store branding, superior customer service, and unique ideas.

The Show o ers a retail brochure and maps to help with self-guided housewares store visits in central Chicago, as well as a U.S. market presentation and retail tour to check out some of the most exciting home and housewares retailers in suburban Chicago.

In addition to the inspiration found by visiting Chicago retailers, the Show provides ﬁrstclass educational and networking opportunities for both specialty retailers and corporate buyers.

There will be special exhibitions and displays and a full lineup of seminars on trends and design, retail success factors, and consumer preferences. Of special note is the Pantone ColorWatch seminars on 2025/2026 colour and material trends.

2025 marks a major milestone: it will be the 125th Show! For over 80 years, the International Housewares Association (IHA) has proudly hosted this must-attend event for the housewares industry.

Take a trip to Chicago from March 2 to March 4 to celebrate the exhibition’s rich history, engage with established and emerging brands, and explore everything new and next in home and housewares.

What: The Inspired Home Show

Where: McCormick Place, Chicago, USA

When: March 2-4 2025

Call: +1-847-292-4200

Email: international@housewares.org

Visit: www.theinspiredhomeshow.com

In February I wrote an opinion piece for Gifts Today in which I argued that trade show exhibitors, visitors, and organisers should make 2024 the year in which all parties come together to work for the good of the High Street, and our home and gift sector speciﬁcally - and that this might start with a concerted e ort to make in-person trade shows unmissable again.

As it happens, for the past nine months I’ve had the honour and pleasure to chair the Advisory Board for Spring and Autumn Fair, which represents a true collaboration between the shows’ organiser Hyve Group, exhibitors, buyers, and trade associations.

The Board initially focused on using stakeholder feedback to drive improvements to the exhibitor and buyer experience at Autumn Fair, with the results feeding into a true celebration in 2025, when Spring Fair marks its 75th anniversary.

As part of the improved buyer experience, Stephen Spencer + Associates partnered with Autumn Fair to deliver the Ambience Clinic: a walk-in, curated space, adjacent to the Buyers’ Lounge, where visitors were o ered the opportunity to meet with an expert to discuss a range of topics to help maximise revenue and return on investment.

My team of ‘Ambience Clinicians’ and I, armed only with our decades of experience in retail and related sectors, were delighted - and at times moved - to meet a wide range of business leaders with an equally wide range of often heartfelt and at times distressing issues: covering both challenges faced and opportunities missed, and yet often involving a fairly simple reframe or fresh approach; easier for an outsider to highlight.

The power of collaboration…

… was in evidence at Autumn Fair, says Stephen Spencer, founder and Ambience Director of retail consultancy Stephen Spencer + Associates

So, what did we discover? Simply, that there is a wealth of talent in our retail sector and that, as I’ve long suspected, and argued, it is the new talent that both clearly represents the future of our industry and needs to be nurtured.

“The hardest part of retailing is having the ability to stand out, with a clear proposition, delivered in every interaction, to a deﬁned audience who will fall in love with the brand, and whom we must obsess on and never disappoint”

The approach of taking our combined expertise, in everything from brand communications and product development to e-commerce and logistics, to Autumn Fair and making it freely available to the sector was hugely rewarding and, I believe, important.

If there was a single challenge that stood out it was that many entrepreneurs have great products, great energy, and great customer experience focus, and yet are struggling to make an impression because they are not telling their story with su cient clarity and coherence.

From an importer of beautiful giftware whose brand name is formed of an ancient word meaning (if you

happen to speak that particular ancient language) ‘ﬂower and song’; and a cool bookshop, seeking to be a community hub in a rural market town but with an ambiguous name; to a fashion store whose brand suggested an ambience far removed from the reality, we revealed that the hardest part of retailing is having the ability to stand out, with a clear proposition, delivered in every interaction, to a deﬁned audience who will fall in love with the brand, and whom we must obsess on and never disappoint.

Having a great product range, or a shop selling great products, does not mean you will be successful. I recently watched, somewhat helplessly, as a gorgeous fresh produce store in my home town opened and closed down within three months. I had predicted as much, as from the outside, through

to the delivery of the customer experience, the store’s execution of its brand was highly incongruous.

In summary, the power of collaboration was in evidence at Autumn Fair, and the Ambience Clinic (just one of a range of initiatives introduced at the show), represented a vital addition to the in-person show experience: a fast, e ective, and pragmatic route for businesses to tap into a deep well of relevant experience and expertise, delivered with sympathy and objectivity.

As retail entrepreneur Theo Paphitis has shown with his Small Business Sunday business network, and as the Ambience Clinic demonstrated, just as our entire sector is founded on the idea that it is more blessed to give than to receive, its future is almost certainly based on that approach too.

Stephen Spencer is founder and Ambience Director of Stephen Spencer + Associates, a retail consultancy that aims to maximise ROI by triggering emotions at every level.

For a free copy of the Ambience Playbook, go to: https://www.stephenspencerassociates.com/ambience-playbook-registration

Email: startyourjourney@stephenspencerassociates.com

Visit: www.stephenspencerassociates.com

Focus on Eyewear & Accessories

Chain action

Joe Davies

Specs chains are no longer just a practical accessory; they have become a symbol of fashion and trendiness.

The brand-new Equilibrium Specs Chain Collection from Joe Davies features a variety of chain styles, all plated in real silver and packaged in signature Equilibrium boxes - making them perfect to give as gifts.

Call: 0161 975 6300

Email: sales@joedavies.co.uk

Visit: www.joedavies.co.uk

Eye up

Opticaid

Discover Opticaid’s latest collection of Remaldi reading glasses for a new look. Opticaid director and buyer Gillian Marchbank said: “We are continuing to broaden our reading glasses offer (which now comprises over 130 styles) with bold statement colourful frames as well as the more classic styles.

“Customers realise that they can now buy quality on-trend reading glasses from many places such as independents, garden centres, and the high street, to help with their reading and close-up activities. Typically from the age of 40 you can experience presbyopia, which is the gradual loss of the eyes’ ability to focus on nearby objects. It’s a natural but annoying part of ageing!

“But we offer a stylish fashion solution. Remaldi reading glasses retail at £14 and £17 and come in six reading strengths - customers usually start with the weakest strength and move up the range!

“In addition, specs chains are back in vogue, with celebs and younger generations embracing the look for their sunnies as well as optical glasses. Chunky acrylic styles and the finer gold and silver metals are selling well.”

Opticaid has just launched 30 new styles (which are in stock now) and will further expand its range at Spring Fair. The reading glasses reflect all the latest colour trends from the popular animal print of Stamford Mink, and the mid-tone hues of khaki, sage and pumpkin, to the more striking Didcot Fuchsia stripe, Portland Jade and Dusk: a dark marine colour.

Call: 0113 239 1400

Email: sales@opticaid.net

Visit: www.opticaid.net

Bags of goodness

Miss Milly

Miss Milly has launched a collection of colourful handbags and purses, crafted from recycled leather and handmade in India by skilled artisans.

Miss Milly owner Sarah Watmore said: “This collection aligns with the brand’s commitment to sustainability, offering retailers a beautiful, eco-friendly addition to their accessory ranges.

“The vibrant, handcrafted pieces are designed with Miss Milly’s signature passion for colour. Each handbag and purse combines bold shades, some with plain and others with patterned leather, creating standout accessories.

“Using leather offcuts not only reduces waste but also gives new life to high-quality materials, making these pieces as durable as they are stylish. And it means the resulting products are totally unique.”

The collection will be launched in early January online at www.missmilly.co.uk and will be available to view later that month at the Giving & Living trade show in Exeter.

Call: 01905 622509

Email: hello@missmilly.co.uk

Visit: www.missmilly.co.uk

Top notch

Namaste

Namaste presents an exclusive crochet collection made by women in the foothills of the Himalayas, crafted from 100% sustainable wool. The range features headbands that allow your skin to breathe while providing warmth during the winter months.

Each showcases a vibrant array of rainbow granny squares set off by contrasting borders, making them both stylish and functional.

Embrace comfort and sustainability with this unique piece, supporting talented artisans while enjoying the beauty of handcrafted design.

Call: 01756 700790

Email: sales@namaste-uk.com

Visit: namaste-uk.com

Celtic charm

Nixey

Celebrate Scottish artisanship at its best with Nixey this Christmas. Its collection of leather bags, handcrafted by traditional sporran makers near the Highlands, are beautiful gifts for slow-fashion, style-with-a-story lovers.

The Portobello Tawny & Chesterfield, new for 2024, is a Celtic spin on the 1970s saddle bag: a single brass equestrian hoop pays homage to Britain’s saddle-making heritage. And the Bonnie Macleod (pictured), another new addition for 2024, stays true to the brand’s Celtic roots.

The vibrant tartans are woven in Scotland and, as with many Nixey’s designs, the Bonnie may also be worn around the waist, like the traditional sporran.

Call: 07793775905

Email: laura@nixeyonline.com

Visit: https://nixeyonline.com/

Something special for everyone

Boasting one of the largest collections of gifts, jewellery and accessories in the industry, Joe Davies recently relaunched its website - which showcases 10,000 items - with improved functionality to make navigation even easier for customers

Hot spots

Joe Davies’ snoozies! are cosy foot coverings which have been one of the company’s best-selling ranges for more than 12 years, with well over two million pairs sold. Lined with sherpa ﬂeece and featuring non-slip soles, snoozies! provide warmth and comfort, making them perfect for the colder months.

‘Lots’ of Dots’ snoozies! are a ﬁrm favourite with customers, and the brand-new ‘Dottie Mules’ slip on snoozies! o er a stylish twist to traditional slip on designs - and feature the same popular dots but with the addition of a cute Dottie Bow. To maximise sales, a free snoozies! spinner is available with any order of 144 pairs.

On display

If you’re seeking a gift for a special occasion, then look no further than the brand-new collection of modern celebration photo frames. Available in wedding, engagement, christening and anniversary captions, these contemporary 4x6 and 6x4 photo frames feature 3D wording and icons and provide a great gift solution for those extra special events, ensuring memories are treasured forever.

Feeling fungi

Joe Davies’ Mushroom and Toadstool Glow Lamps are bang on trend in the world of home décor. Not only are they quirky gifts but they are practical too, with many featuring LED lighting for a cosy atmosphere. And there’s no need for cables and plugs, as these stunning lights are battery-operated.

New designs have a classic grey marble ﬁnish combined with a wood-look ceramic base, while the Deco models have simple white textured deco-patterned tops and wood-look ceramic bases, featuring the elegance of the Art Deco era. The combination of classic ﬁnishes with a nod to the beauty of nature makes for a perfect gift which will enhance any home interior.

Fashion led

Equilibrium fashion accessories are a real must for any retailer. Scarves and gloves are a winter wardrobe staple and there are a huge number of new styles to choose from. Many are gift-boxed too, making them a popular choice for presents. Pom-pom hats, furry bucket hats, and berets o er a stylish solution to our winter headwear woes. Add to this a brand-new range of luxury faux fur earmu s and ear warmer headbands, and you really will be dressed to impress!

Jazz it up

The Equilibrium fashion jewellery collection goes from strength to strength and while clear crystals have always been popular for the party season, one of the latest trends encourages the use of vibrantly coloured crystals, from deep blues and bold reds to soft pinks and vivid greens. These rich colours add a touch of vibrancy to your jewellery box and also allow you to create a truly personalised look.

The new Equilibrium Glam Rox Collection (pictured) provides the perfect way to jazz up a monochrome outﬁt. This playful range of necklaces, bracelets and earrings o ers a welcome pop of colour for the festive season.

Many more jewellery, home and gift collections are showcased at Joe Davies’ South Manchester showrooms or on its website. The company has built a reputation for delivering high-quality, stylish products that stand the test of time. Ordering couldn’t be easier with its ‘little & often’ quantities and low minimum order value of just £100 for free nationwide delivery.

Call: 0161 975 6300

Fresh scents

CAHM

2024 has seen the release of CAHM’s much anticipated wax melt collection, which has proved to be a huge hit. New fragrances have now joined the luxury scented soy wax melts lineup including Oakmoss & Amber, Indian Summer and Cassis & Black Rose.

This perfectly giftable box for just £10 makes a great till-point purchase, and a striking display of colour when merchandised as a collection.

Call: 0113 824 6109

Email: trade@thecahmcollective.com

Visit: www.thecahmcollective.com

Purr-fect pots

Joe Davies

Indoor plant pots and vases are taking centre stage in interior design, and Joe Davies’ Moggy Pots are the perfect way to embrace this trend.

These charming black, white, and grey cat-themed vases and planters come in various sizes, blending functionality with a playful, fun design.

Whether you’re decorating your own space or looking for the ideal gift for a feline lover, this quirky collection is sure to delight.

Now proudly employeeowned, Joe Davies is known for its award-winning customer service and extensive range of gifts, jewellery, and fashion accessories. Products are available in its signature ‘little & often’ quantities, with a minimum order of just £100 and free nationwide delivery.

Call: 0161 975 6300

Email: sales@joedavies.co.uk

Visit: www.joedavies.co.uk

Fantasy decor

Zewood

Zewood creates original wooden decor for fans of fantasy games and popular film franchises. Founded in 2019 by Andrii and Anna Panko, the company blends creativity and craftsmanship to create original and high-quality items. Its range includes decors inspired by the cult worlds of Harry Potter, Lords of the Rings, Games of Thrones, Fantastic Beasts, and DC universe, such as wall clocks, decorative maps, key holders, and posters.

All products are manufactured from natural materials, and each stage of production is carefully controlled by the founders. The company’s team also invites professional designers and artists, who encapsulate ideas and concepts in the products, considering the peculiarities of a certain fantasy world. When creating collections, Zewood collaborates with experts on fantasy universes, who help develop authentic decor items.

But Zewood’s philosophy goes beyond decor manufacturing: each item acquires a symbolic value, turning it into a piece of the owner’s personal story. The products can be customised, including adding personal engravings. You can even create your own unique map or poster: let your imagination run wild!

The company is actively developing its product range and plans to enter new markets and expand licence agreements with other major industry players. For example, the Zewood range has recently received a new decor line inspired by the DC Comics universe. This collection includes a wooden map of Gotham, a Batman wall clock, and Superman posters. Thanks to the licence agreement with Warner Bros. Discovery, the products are created according to all the canons of the cult universes, which allows fans to immerse themselves in the worlds of their favourite characters at home.

To date, Zewood has released over 50 original designs. It has gained popularity all over the globe by transforming interiors into places for making the bravest fantasies come true!

Call: +447458149289

Email: hello@zewood.co

Visit: https://zewood.co/

Leaving 2024 on a high

The Wheat Bag Company

The Wheat Bag Company founder Sally Moore says: “Here at The Wheat Bag Company, we have been busy behind the scenes designing our new range of Microwavable Beddy Buddies. These are slightly different from our original designs as they have a Velcro opening to allow the inner bag of flaxseed to be removed, for heating in the microwave.

“We have listened to our customers, and this has been requested to enable the Beddy Buddies to be washed if required. We are also using English flaxseed in the heatable inner bags as it’s soft and pliable.

“Our Microwavable Beddy Buddies are made from super soft plush, which is soothing and comforting. We will be launching these at Spring Fair in February.

“And we are delighted to say that our new hand warmers and wheat bottles are proving very popular this season. Both items make perfect gifts for all ages. With the cost of energy bills increasing, our heatable products are perfect to cuddle up with and keep warm.

“We have a busy season ahead of us now. But having built up a large amount of

Star turn

Namaste

Namaste presents this star-shaped fabric wreath, handcrafted from a mixture of offcuts featuring deep colour flashes and a textured finish, that combine to create a homely feel.

Fitted with a recycled hanging loop, it’s perfect for adding a charming touch to your space.

Create an inviting atmosphere with more sustainable decoration ideas from Namaste, all made from richly coloured recycled saris.

Each piece celebrates eco-friendly craftsmanship while enhancing the warmth and beauty of your home.

Call: 01756 700790

Email: sales@namaste-uk.com

Visit: namaste-uk.com

stock throughout the summer months, we pride ourselves on being able to fulfil all of your orders.

“We handle all dispatches with the same attention to detail, ensuring that every order is packed securely and shipped promptly to arrive in perfect condition. Finally, we would be delighted to supply any new customers who would like to stock our products.”

Call: 01747 840 499

Email: sales@thewheatbagcompany.co.uk

Visit: www.thewheatbagcompany.co.uk

Personalised Memento Company

Treat your home with the personalised home design range from Personalised Memento Company (PMC). From doormats to candles, these items are ideal gifts which will complement any décor with their neutral colour scheme.

With the option to add your own message, this range can be used for many occasions, from wishing congratulations on a new home or even as a lovely addition to your own home. Get in touch with PMC today for more information.

Email: sales@personalisedmemento.co.uk

Visit: www.personalisedmemento.co.uk

Gifts Today SHOP TALK

Clare Turner catches up with gift retailers in the run-up to Christmas

Caroline Ranwell

Owner

Hugs & Kisses

Tettenhall West Midlands

What are your thoughts on Christmas trading?

I’m pretty optimistic. Yes, it’s been tough, but I still think Christmas will be a good one. I’m expecting to just about beat last year’s figures. Customers are definitely shopping earlier to spread the cost.

What stocking fillers are selling well?

Small candle tins from various companies, Legami erasable pens, East of India coasters and mini matchbox porcelain gifts, Inis small gift sets, Clementine jewellery, Alice Wheeler London small bags, mirrors and gift sets and, of course, Jellycat.

What’s your favourite gift of 2024?

The award-winning Just Because Three Lites Boxes from Best Kept Secrets. This set of three tinned candles with sparkles on top of each is so different to other candle tins, and great value. The packaging is really lovely too: you can buy various titles including Special Friend, Happy Birthday, various ages and relations. We’ve just had the Christmas one in, which is bound to be a winner.

If Santa could grant you three wishes for your business, what would they be? An unlimited buying budget, of course! A much bigger shop, as we always run out of space. And more hours in the day!

Bethany Kirwin

Buying Assistant

National Portrait Gallery

London

What are your thoughts on Christmas trading?

Christmas is a huge opportunity for us. Alongside a rise in commercial sales, we also see a rise in visitor figures to the National Portrait Gallery (NPG), so capturing visitors’ attention with an exciting range of products is key.

Our Christmas range focuses on three themes: NPG Exclusives, Illustrated Christmas, and Christmas at Larry’s. The latter is a range focused on our publication launched in September entitled “Cocktails at Larry’s” [which explores works and drinks created in honour of NPG’s underground cocktail bar.] So far we’ve seen really positive Christmas sales and we’re on for a really positive quarter.

What stocking fillers are selling well?

For Christmas, we’ve brought in 13 new suppliers specialising in gifts, including candles by Maison Bohiti, greeting cards and homeware by Raspberry Blossom, sets of cocktail glasses by The Vintage List, and felt decorations by Amica.

We’ve also got some really exciting bespoke products including a lambswool scarf by Wallace Sewell, and two exclusive colourway hot water bottles designed by Ambar London.

This year we’ve incorporated some products from Cambridge Imprint into a fantastic shop display, brought to life in September, and since then we have seen wonderful sales of its Paperchain Kits (in green, and red & blue), Make A Star Garland, and Paper Crowns Kit.

Carl Knapp

Food and Gift Buyer

Bury Lane Farm Shop

Royston

Cambridgeshire

What are your thoughts on Christmas trading?

I’m quietly positive. We’ve stocked up early to put bold displays on to entice the early shoppers which seems to be working well - although I’m still expecting the last two-week rush.

Packaging has played a key role in decision-making over lines and quantities this year. Several companies such as Scottish Fine Soaps and The Cambridge Confectionery Company have added Christmas designed sleeves that are removable after Christmas to give extra confidence if they don’t sell.

What stocking fillers are selling well?

I get asked this a lot from reps and agents who visit, and my response for the last month or so has been the same: nothing is flying off the shelves but most things are trickling along. Jellycat Christmas-themed plush, Sarunds’ named Toblerone, Global Journey’s wooden keyrings, and Bomb Cosmetics’ bath bombs have all started well.

What’s your favourite gift of 2024?

This is such a tough question. I might have to cheat and give you two. If I’m buying for my wife it would be Alice Wheeler London’s Navy Train Case: practical and classy looking. For my children, it would be Jellycat’s Amuseables Bauble, which would look great on our Christmas tree.

If Santa could grant you three wishes for your business, what would they be?

Number one is easy: health and happiness during the small moments of time off for our staff and customers. Number two would be for a bit of economic stability to give our customers some confidence to spend their money. My third wish would be for customers to ‘buy it when they see it’ and not come back to me on Christmas Eve and ask if I’ve still got that specific item!

David Robertson

Managing Director Pozzi & Bijou

Buckie & Elgin

Scotland

What are your thoughts on Christmas trading?

It’s not really started yet!! As always, retailers look at their bulging storerooms and shops and wonder how they will sell/pay for it all. We’ve just finished dressing our stores, but stock has been later coming in and we’re still waiting on some things. The lack of availability of some key lines and new items meant we initially bought heavier than we would have, as there’s a fear that we cannot stock up.

Sales of individual family greeting cards have been good, but boxes have been a struggle. This is a trend we’ve seen over the past few years. What is also encouraging is that some of our more unusual gifting/homeware from Cath Kidston and Gisela Graham has already been picked up and customers have really liked it.

We have companies that we only deal with in the Golden Quarter: Kaemingk, and Heaven Sends being two examples. They deliver fantastic different Christmas product and we mix this through our key gift lines to make the shops feel Christmassy and different.

We don’t have the space of garden centres but we DO DO trees, and we always have themes and colours! One of them last year was a drink-themed champagne gin tree, which proved very popular. This year we have a rich gold and green, a silver translucent twig tree, a tartan piper and stag and, of course, a Jellycat tree!

What stocking fillers are selling well? Langs’ personalised Christmas wax melts, small Jellycat decorations, and scarves, gloves and hats from Zelly: which is one of the best suppliers in the industry in my opinion. Always bang on trend, with great pricing and quality, Zelly is an essential part of each season for us. It also has a new Constellation By Zelly jewellery range which has done great as well.

“We don’t have the space of garden centres but we DO DO trees, and we always have themes and colours!”

What’s your favourite gift of 2024?

I have a few. Jellycat (if you can get the stock), and Joma Jewellery’s A Little range - which is still simply the best sub-£20 gift. I’ve no idea how they keep tweaking in terms of new sentiments and packaging, but they do. We sell a lot of Littles every day and they are a key part of our offer all year round.

Also, Home Fragrance Co.’s diffusers and crystal potpourris. I picked these up at Spring Fair and have repeated them five times. The Vivid and Crystal ranges have been really strong. Finally, My Little Eco Bag. I found these environmentally-friendly alternatives to cotton shopping bags at Home & Gift. I’ve recommended them to other retailers who thought they may be a little expensive, but we’ve sold them really well, both as a gift and self-purchase. They are quirky, different, and not everywhere - those are some criteria I like!

If Santa could grant you three wishes for your business, what would they be?

Especially after the Budget: do away with employers’ NI. I would rather give it directly to staff than trust the government to spend it correctly. The rises to hourly rates and NI are issues for many retailers.

Next, grant councils common sense to stop making it difficult for people to get into city and town centres. Whether it’s parking and LEZ charges, or bus lanes, all these new rules make people question what they’re doing. The minute a customer thinks, “oh, I may get fined,” or “I can’t park,” they won’t go out to the shops.

Finally, customers need to realise that Amazon doesn’t sponsor their local school’s prizegiving ceremony or give a donation to their local cancer charity. Often we can compete on price - and I believe we certainly offer better customer service - so I really want customers to look locally when they can. And, if I can have a little fun extra wish, it would be for Bruce Springsteen to play at my staff Christmas party!

Charmaine Fox Gift Manager

Caulders Garden Centres Nine branches in central Scotland

What are your thoughts on Christmas trading?

Our customers are continuing the trend of shopping early for Christmas. Our giftware and Christmas shop are selling well, and sales are continuing to grow week on week, which is building our confidence for a successful Christmas period.

What stocking fillers are selling well?

Nuzzles socks, snoozies! slippers, and boxed gloves - all from Joe Davies.

What’s your favourite gift of 2024?

It’s from one of our new suppliers: Cottage Delight. I’m hoping for Cheese Board Classics, which comes with three chutneys and basil biscuits. This would be ideal for my Christmas Eve cheese board.

If Santa could grant you three wishes for your business, what would they be?

I hope for all our colleagues and customers to have a wonderful Christmas and New Year. And please, can we have a sunny, dry spring season? I think everyone will agree that we need some sunshine this coming year! Plus, we’re very lucky with all our very loyal customers, but I’d love to see some lovely new faces to continue our growth.

Gifts Today SHOP TALK

Lindsey ScottWalker Owner Feather Robins Weston Favell Shopping Centre & St Crispin Retail Village

Northampton

What are your thoughts on Christmas trading?

It started slowly in our St Crispin shop. We’ve noticed that where once customers were impulsive with their shopping and price was not an issue, this year every purchase has been considered. There’s been a significant decline in footfall and spend throughout the year. Due to the cost of living and the new government, people are incredibly cautious.

Our new shop in Weston Favell (which opened in May) has been very well received - thank goodness - and there’s been a general buzz about Christmas which started at the end of September.

We’ve found the appetite for Christmas decorations and gifts started earlier than usual and we started displaying Christmas gifts in September. This year people are definitely shopping earlier than ever before.

What stocking fillers are selling well?

Year-on-year our bestsellers are Joya Cuff Socks, and soy wax melts which are locally produced. New for us this year are Legami erasable pens, which seem popular with children and adults alike.

What’s your favourite gift of 2024?

We became a Maileg stockist this year and these are my favourite gifts, from the mice in matchboxes to the teddy family, and all the accessories. The Maileg range appeals to all, and has a dedicated following of customers who are eager to get the latest release.

If Santa could grant you three wishes for your business, what would they be?

Continued growth: I’d like to expand and open a third shop at the end of 2025. Improve our customer experience: so we build on our reputation as outstanding gift shops in Northampton. And increased profit: so I can take a wage!

Nicola Hibon Jackson Founder

The Voewood Blackheath Standard London

What are your thoughts on Christmas trading?

We’re really excited. Although customers are still very price conscious, it feels like there’s been an emotional shift from customers completely holding back on some spend over the past 12 months, to an outlook of being happy to commit to genuinely nice pieces for gifts.

We made a conscious effort to bring Christmas into the store in early September - two months earlier than previous years (really because we were overwhelmed with deliveries in November and December last year) - which has paid off. We’ve seen a real take up of pieces that we thought would only go much further into the final quarter.

“We made a conscious effort to bring Christmas into the store in early September… which has paid off”

What stocking fillers are selling well?

Charbonnel et Walker Christmas chocolates, Ortigia Sicilia plates and soaps, and Thunders Love socks - for both men and women.

What’s your favourite gift of 2024?

Ortigia Sicilia’s gift sets and its beautiful large, illustrated trays, which are simply breathtaking. We got a few early on in the season just to try them, and have been very impressed by their performance. Everybody who sees them wants one - us included! We’re already on our fourth top-up this season, as they’ve flown. So many people have been buying for themselves as well as buying Christmas early.

If Santa could grant you three wishes for your business, what would they be?

A simple POS system for small retailers that’s easy to understand and integrate with payment systems, and which is designed for the timepoor! Proper support from the local council for local retail districts; we currently feel rather abandoned in favour of more high-profile areas. And more co-ordinated targeting of repeated petty theft and antisocial behaviour.

The word on the street...

Maybugs co-owner Greg Rose is back to dish the dirt on what’s new, what’s hot, and what’s dropped at his four-strong gift shop chain in Hailsham, Eastbourne, Bexhill-on-Sea and Tunbridge Wells

Well, it feels like I’ve been talking about Christmas for months but it’s ﬁnally here, and I hope your tills are ringing as much as Santa’s bells are!

October was full-on as we got the keys to our fourth branch at Chapel Place in the Kent town of Tunbridge Wells, and worked at full pelt to get it open for November 1. Of course, these things never go smoothly, but we managed it and opened the store on time. Please remind me never to open a shop this close to Christmas ever again!

What’s New?

We’re in love with Charlie Bears. We started ranging them in our Eastbourne store in October and we’ve been taken aback by just how popular they are, and by how many people know the brand.

Charlie Bears are a ordable, collectable bears with their characters designed by Charlie at The Bearhouse in Cornwall. Lovingly made by hand, each bear has its own unique characteristics. We’ve now added them onto our website and into the new store too. Plus, in the new year, we will expand a range to all stores.

In Tunbridge Wells we took advantage of the 60-day payment terms on Faire for Bentley & Bo. This meant we could start stocking its Skitso Lamps again. Customers are loving them. While we were logged in to Faire,

we also discovered a couple of unique lines that would make great souvenirs in Tunbridge Wells from Inky Acorn Designs and The Wooden Postcard Company, so they might have happened to just fall into my basket too!

What’s Hot?

Our move into food gifts has really paid o . We’re seeing customers buy into the category heavily, and have already sold out of some of the festive treats including chocolates from The Cambridge Confectionery Company and honey from Edinburgh Honey Co.

Other big sellers are Starlightz LED light-up ornaments from Joe Davies, Inis di users, and named product including the new Snow Globe tree decorations and Christmas story books from History & Heraldry.

We’ve always taken the view that we need to advertise regularly in print and online. However, this year we’ve placed a lot of ads in smaller local publications - so these are the free magazines that you get through your letterbox rather than buy from your newsagent. Generally, they’re cheaper to advertise in than the more premium print publications, and it’s got us in front of di erent consumers who we might not have considered to be our core customers. It’s worked well and, combined with our social media

advertising, it’s driven a signiﬁcant portion of growth for us.

What’s Dropped?

We’ve seen a big reduction in Christmas decorations, but this was our own doing. After two years of declining sales of baubles, felt, and tinsel, we bit the bullet and thought: we’ll just let the garden centres and discounters get on with it, and move our focus to other gift categoriesand it’s worked so far.

Here’s wishing you all a fabulous Christmas. Fingers crossed that the weather stays dry and crisp, and customers come out in droves!

‘Our

new venture’

Sally Matson, owner of multi-award-winning greeting card retailer Red Card in the West Sussex town of Petworth, has just launched a gift store. Clare Turner ﬁnds out more

Why did you decide to be a retailer?

My ﬁrst career was in hotel and restaurant management but I actually think retailing is in my blood. I was born in Australia on a dairy farm, and then my parents bought a large newsagent (six full-time sta , 50 paper boys), and I worked there from the age of 12.

On Saturday mornings I did jobs like merchandising and restocking the Matchbox cars, stocktaking the coloured cardboard, and topping up the greeting cards. They were great days.

Tell us a bit about your businesses. In 2008 I was working in Petworth Bookshop in West Sussex, and the owner Steve Howe and I knew the town needed a greeting card retailer, as the cards in the Bookshop were just about the only serious card o ering in town.

So together we opened Red Card in 2011. Due to a technicality with the lease we had to close in 2012 and ﬁnd another premises, which fortuitously turned out to be next door to the old one and twice the size.

During Covid we relocated to another premises: again, twice the size of the previous one and in a much better location - next to the main town car park. The current premises is 1,000sq ft.

Over the past three years, Karen West - the store manager of Red Card who has worked with me for 10 years - and I have been planning another store, as we kept seeing fabulous things at trade shows that needed a di erent environment and a larger selection of stock to succeed.

We looked at several premises in Petworth but couldn’t ﬁnd one that felt right - until I had a chance encounter with our current landlord who had his shop up for sale, but agreed to lease it to me.

At 500sq ft, it’s much smaller than Red Card (which is 150 metres away) but it’s a very beautiful characterful listed building with a rich history; it has been a retail premises for over 150 years. Our new venture is called Little Red and we opened on October 15.

“The idea was to create a more luxury gift shop with a limited number of brands but an extensive selection of each”

How would you describe your range?

The original Red Card has more than 170 suppliers, the bulk of which are card companies. Little Red has only 14. The idea was to create a more luxury gift shop with a limited number of brands but an extensive selection of each.

Who are your key suppliers?

You would need to come and visit to appreciate the way the shop concept works, but three of our

L-R: Sally Matson and Karen West outside Little Red on opening day

key stockists are: the German brush company Burstenhaus Redecker; Powell Craft, which sells the most beautiful 100% cotton Indian block printed bedding and nightwear; and giftable stationery and homeware from Laura Stoddart, who is one of my very favourite English illustrators. We also carry greeting cards from Laura Skilbeck, Nineteen Seventy Three, and Archivist Gallery.

How do you find products?

We find products from trade shows, sales agents, visiting other stores, customer recommendations and holidays!

For example, we’re stocking the most wonderful luxury scented candles from Husske & Co., which is a company launched by a local Petworth lady. And we’re also stocking a very beautiful Portuguese soap brand which I found on a trip to Lisbon - and courted for three years before finally catching it!

What’s your selection criteria?

We only sell products that Karen and I love. We’re always looking for brands with traceable provenance, and I particularly love companies that have a family background. Many of the brands we stock are still run by the same families as they were when originally established.

Also, I’m very keen on colour, and beautiful packaging and presentation is very important to me. Finally, we work with companies that have great people. We have a personal relationship with each of the companies we stock. For Karen and I, this is one of the most enjoyable parts of what we do.

What are some of your new arrivals? Everything!

What are your best sellers?

Having only been open a short while, that still remains to be seen!

What are you most excited about seeing/stocking for the Spring/Summer 2025 season?

Seeing how the new shop works seasonally will be interesting. I don’t expect it to be as seasonally

driven as Red Card, because the focus is not on greeting cards. So we are planning on introducing light seasonal changes, but not as specific.

How do you get the word out there?

To be honest, in the drive to get the new shop open, we haven’t actually launched our social media or marketing incentives yet. We’ve been using Red Card as the main advertising hub, and this has worked well. But the main task now is to get our social media accounts activated.

“We’re always looking for brands with traceable provenance”

But we have printed some business cards, and postcards with a map on the back showing the route from one shop to the next; Petworth is well-known for its intricate triangle of streets!

The general printing illustration of the shopfront (pictured below) was created for us by the very lovely Jo Wilson and Meg Boudewijns at Dandelion Stationery.

Do you offer any services?

Yes, we offer gift wrapping and gift vouchers, and we will launch a customer loyalty programme along with an e-commerce website in early 2025.

What’s on your counter/by the till?

The till space is clear - apart from a stack of tissue paper and our Shopify POS hardware! We both like clear space and neat lines.

What part of your job do you enjoy most?

The most important part of what I do is the people. I love the people I work with - suppliers and staffand I love our customers (mostly!).

What’s your proudest professional achievement?

I think it was way back in the beginning, when Red Card won the Best Greeting Card Newcomer - South category of The Retas Greeting Card Retail Awards (which celebrate greeting card retailing in the UK) in 2014. This gave me a huge confidence boost.

Do you have a favourite gift?

Wow, now there’s a question! My father passed away quite recently, and over the years he’s given me some very unique Australian gifts - often small pieces of jewellery made by really skilled artisans. So they are very special to me.

Colour splash

Collins Debden

Bring a splash of colour into the coming year with Abstract Gradient 2025 diaries. Choose between two trendy designs inspired by ethereal shapes and vibrant shades that bring a sense of calm to the planning process. One sports a cover of blended and di used blues and greens with a minimalistic date stamp and contrasting elastic closure. The other features striking pink and yellow hues with a glass-like illusion pattern.

And explore additions to the vibrant Party On diary collection designed by Katie Smith: an award-winning Glasgow School of Art graduate. Each bold design depicts a party drink, illustrated in Katie’s signature glamorous and retro art style. In a burst of colour and maximalism, a contrasting pattern lines the inside covers, further showcasing Katie’s illustration style. These diaries feature a week-to-view layout, and current and forward year planners with additional space to write notes and reminders.

All the diaries are made using 100% recycled materials and quality FSC-certiﬁed paper.

Call: 0141 300 8500

Email: enquiries@collins-debden.co.uk

Visit: https://uk.collinsdebden.com/

And relax…

Clairefontaine

Inspired by current wellbeing trends, the Terracotta collection from Clairefontaine immerses us in a soothing world where organic forms and warm hues interlace harmoniously. The terracotta, ochre and beige colour tones are drawn from nature, establishing a comforting and enveloping ambiance. The collection includes a range of attractive notebooks and other desktop accessories, as well as a boxed stationery gift set, which brings together a notebook with a pencil, binder clips, 10 paper clips, and an eraser. Every notebook is ﬁlled with Clairefontaine 90gsm brushed vellum paper.

Call: 01553 696600

Email: sales@exaclair.co.uk | Visit: www.exaclairlimited.com

Make your mark

Joe Davies

A thoughtfully chosen pen from Joe Davies’ new brand Bridgewater Pen Company will make the perfect gift for professionals, students - or anyone who appreciates a nice pen. The range consists of ball pens, rollerballs, mechanical pencils and fountain pens.

Each pen comes with its own gift box, and all have a lifetime mechanical guarantee. Choose from a large collection of classic designs and, new for 2024, there are some extremely giftable occasion pens and pen sets for wedding, anniversary, graduation, retirement and birthday. There really is something for everyone.

To make an eye-catching display of the collection, a counter display unit is available which holds nine di erent designs and three pens per design.

Call: 0161 975 6300

Email: sales@joedavies.co.uk

Visit: www.joedavies.co.uk

Good companion Personalised Memento Company

This personalised journal from Personalised Memento Company is a fantastic way to capture memorable moments throughout pregnancy. It’s ﬁlled with 80 themed pages, ready to ﬁll out with all of the important milestones on your journey from bump to baby, including illustrations to symbolise your baby’s growth!

Included within the spiral-bound notebook are areas to note thoughts and feelings, along with space to add scan and bump photos. Matching pregnancy milestone cards are also available within this range. With a comprehensive range of on-trend giftware and selling solutions to suit all retailers, there has never been a better time to sell personalised gifts!

Email: sales@personalisedmemento.co.uk

Visit: www.personalisedmemento.co.uk

Clare Turner chats to Charlotte Muir, buyer & manager of Arnside House Gift Shop on the south Cumbrian coast

Tell us a bit about your business.

Arnside House has been trading for over 40 years!

It’s a small independent gift and ice cream shop (we also serve co ee and homemade cake) in the coastal village of Arnside in south Cumbria.

We’re on the edge of the Lake District, and our store is right on the beach promenade, which makes us a very popular destination for holidaymakers and day-trippers.

I run the business with my parents-in-law Val and Gordon Smith. I started helping out as a Saturday sta member in my teens and when I left school, not knowing quite what I wanted to do, I took on some more hours.

Twenty years later I’m still here, having fallen in love with retail. I’ve learned everything I know from my parents-in-law, from how to navigate a trade show to accounts and bookkeeping.

What’s your merchandise mix?

It’s an Aladdin’s cave of gifts of all prices for all occasions and people. We try to cover every category and we ﬁt a lot in! Our core o erings are cards, toys, puzzles, bath & beauty, candles, homewares, jewellery, confectionery, and Fairtrade.

Key suppliers include History & Heraldry [The H&H Group], Joe Davies, Langs, Alex Clark Art, Alljoy Design, Ancient Wisdom, Aurora World, Black Ginger, Brainstorm Toys, Bree Merryn Fine Art,

Byzantium Collection, Cath Tate Cards, Charlie Bears, Creme d’Or, Emma Ball, Fiesta Studios, Inis, Bomb Cosmetics, Ginger Betty, Gringo, Half Moon Bay, House of Marbles, Warmies, Lanka Kade, Life Charms, Lily-Flame, Lola, Miss Sparrow, Morrigan, Namaste, Otter House, Pachamana, Paper Salad, Shared Earth, Hollie Tree, Herdy, The Little Dog Laughed, TY, Lagoon, Wrendale Designs, and Sarah Jane card agency.

How do you find products?

Mostly at trade shows: Spring Fair at the NEC in Birmingham and the Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival in Harrogate are the main ones for us. We also read the trade press - and we have great relationships with our reps and agents.

What’s your selection criteria?

Quality and price are key. Having been in business in this area for so long, we really know our local customer base and what they want and expectnothing too contemporary! But our stock is forever evolving to follow trends.

What are you most excited about stocking for A/W?

We really look forward to the ‘cosy’ season. Our shelves are full of lovely knitwear, woolly hats and gloves from Pachamama, along with all our favourite winter scents in the candle ranges from Lily-Flame and History & Heraldry’s home fragrance brand Heart & Home.

Do you offer any services?

Yes, we o er gift wrapping and gift vouchers, and run a customer loyalty scheme. We also make up hampers.

What’s on your counter by the till?

We have some pick-up impulse items like little Arnside-themed magnets made for us by Southﬁeld. We also showcase Val’s handmade jewellery such as bracelets made from recycled glass beads, which she calls ‘The Ghia Tree’ (Ghia being an ancient word for Mother Earth).

‘Forever evolving’

What’s next for Arnside House?

We are in the early stages of planning a shop reﬁt, so that’s very exciting! Productwise, I’d like to ﬁnd some more ranges aimed at men.

Trade talk

Leading suppliers review the past 12 months

and reveal some exciting plans for the new year

Amy Lindsey Digital Operations

Alexander Thurlow

How has 2024 been for you?

This year we have continued to have a strong performance, underlined by our core products, our brandnew very successful gold finish range, and our focus on the environment.

For 2025, do you have any news to share? 2025 is going to be an exciting year for us. We’re continuing to improve our processes internally to make sure our customers get the best service and stock availability possible. Additionally, we’re expanding our opportunities for personal sales to allow us to provide increased coverage across the UK.

More suppliers are selling D2C: is this an increasingly important part of your business? If so, how do you think this will affect high street trade?

Selling direct to customers has grown for us ever since lockdown, and it’s now part of our strategy to build our brand name and its awareness and desirability to all. Alexander Thurlow is over 70 years in the making, and we’ve decided now is the time to capitalise on our wonderful heritage. By building our brand name and appeal, we feel it will make our products more sought after and accessible to everyone, not just on the high street.

Considering some of the cost-of-living pressures have eased, will you be reflecting this in your pricing strategy moving forward and if so, how?

As always, our products will remain a competitive choice in fashion jewellery. We’ve recently significantly developed our packaging to showcase our products at their very best. The costs associated with this new packaging will not be passed on to our customers, as we believe our pricing is fair, and the benefits of the new packaging will outweigh the need to pass the extra costs on to our customers.

Aylish Ellwood Trade Marketing Manager

More suppliers are selling D2C: is this an increasingly important part of your business? If so, how do you think this will affect high street trade?

Our main focus will always be B2B, as we find more ways to support the independent retailer. However, D2C does have a very important role in that we can test the success of certain new products before introducing them to retailers.

It enables us to gain direct insights into endconsumers by gathering more accurate data, assisting with future product development projects, and further benefiting retailers on the high street as we bring more desired product to market.

I believe that the greatest benefits of having a D2C site are increased brand loyalty, awareness and customer engagement, which in turn will benefit our retailers and the high street.

Mark Saunders Show Director

Scotland’s Trade Fairs

How has 2024 been for you?

In the world of trade shows, on the whole good. Domestic business is tough but tourism has been strong again in Scotland, which has underpinned the gift market. Most retailers involved in this sector seem to have fared well and trade shows always reflect the markets they are serving.

Our Spring Show in January reflected a buoyant season in 2023 although the only downside was that we had awful weather, which stopped a lot of buyers from venturing out. The Autumn Show again reflected a steady season. So all in all, we’re happy with where we are - and to date, bookings for our Spring Show are ahead of expectations.

For 2025, do you have any news to share?

We’re aiming to revamp our Best Product Awards at Scotland’s Trade Fair Spring. We plan to put more ‘pomp and circumstance’ behind them to raise awareness and increase their stature, by partnering with The Giftware Association and creating greater marketing benefits for the winners - both at the Fair and after. We’re still working through the plans, which will be revealed soon.

More suppliers are selling D2C: is this an increasingly important part of your business? If so, how do you think this will affect high street trade?

We haven’t seen any threat to this in trade shows. There has been the occasional supplier which has switched its business model from B2B to D2C and has stopped doing trade shows as a result. Those who have successfully built up a D2C revenue stream seem to be doing this alongside their wholesale business.

Considering some of the cost-of-living pressures have eased, will you be reflecting this in your pricing strategy moving forward and if so, how?

Most businesses seem to have factored in the rising costs now, and the easing of inflation is welcome. However, we’re not seeing that much of a change in costs from our supply chain, so it’s unlikely that trade fairs will be able to lower their prices.

Vanessa Curry

Managing Director

Best Kept Secrets

How has 2024 been for you?

It’s been an incredible year. Our business has grown tremendously, and we’re thrilled to have brought in new team members, welcomed more retailers, and expanded our product o erings.

We’ve launched several collections: our Luminescence line, which combines luxury and a ordability with new on-trend vessel designs; and our Just Because Collection, which now includes personalised Three Lites boxes and our popular Just Because Wax Melt Cards. For Christmas, we’re lighting up the season with the Red Collection: a festive array of fragrances, from wax melts and candles to di users. And, to top it all o , we were honoured to win the home fragrance category of the Gift of the Year 2024 Awards, which was such a wonderful recognition of our team’s hard work and commitment to creating joy-infused products.

As we celebrate our 28th year, our Morpeth workshop remains a hive of activity. We’re proud of our sustainable practices, crafting products locally and sourcing materials responsibly. Our Just Because Collection, in particular, resonates with retailers and customers alike. With its accessible price points and beautiful sentiments, it’s a true representation of our belief in making thoughtful, a ordable gifting possible for everyone.

For 2025, do you have any news to share?

Absolutely! We’re already gearing up for some exciting launches in 2025. First up, we’ll be introducing new fragrances – we’re still thinking of the perfect names but so far, ‘Golden Maple’ and ‘Autumn Skies’ are favourites. We’re also thrilled to be debuting our Just Because Box Bags: a fun and innovative gift bag concept that completes the whole gifting experience in style.

More suppliers are selling D2C: is this an increasingly important part of your business? If so, how do you think this will affect high street trade?

Our core business remains ﬁrmly B2B - about 90% of our sales come from trade. While we do explore D2C channels, our priority will always be supporting our retailers. They’re essential to our business. They do an amazing job presenting our products, creating beautiful displays, and building that connection with customers. Our POS options and commitment to customer service are all geared towards helping them succeed.

With the retail landscape as challenging as it is, our retailers need support more than ever, and we’re here to do just that. We know that building strong retailer relationships is vital, so we focus on giving them the best possible experience, from reliable supply to thoughtful product designs that resonate with customers.

Considering some of the cost-of-living pressures have eased, will you be reflecting this in your pricing strategy moving forward and if so, how?

Keeping our products a ordable has always been at the heart of our mission. Gifting should be about sharing joy, and we want to ensure our products

remain accessible to everyone. Many of our items are priced under £10, allowing customers to pick up a beautiful gift without breaking the bank. Our Just Because Collection, for instance, lets people celebrate any moment with ease and a ordability. This approach has not only helped us grow but has built a community of loyal customers who appreciate that we focus on quality without high costs. We’re committed to maintaining this a ordability while o ering products that spread joy and, as always, we’re here to bring a little sparkle into everyone’s day, no matter what the occasion.

Andrii Panko Co-founder & CEO Zewood

How has 2024 been for you?

The market has changed and the overall economic situation is very di erent today compared with two years ago. Buyers have become more cautious about expensive purchases, especially when it comes to items over £150. They are more likely to choose more a ordable options instead.

We don’t stop there though. We will continue to create new decors and designs for our loyal fans, who collect our items. In addition, we are expanding the range, focusing on the interests and needs of new buyers. For example, this autumn we introduced a new series of decor dedicated to the DC Universe, to two superheroes and their worlds: Superman and Batman.

For 2025, do you have any news to share?

We plan to signiﬁcantly expand our range of fantasy products. Currently, we’re working on more than 16 new unique designs for clocks, posters, and key holders. We’re preparing to release new geographical wall maps in various interpretations. And we’re actively developing partner projects, because we would like to be in o ine stores - and we’re even considering the possibility of opening our own show corners in shopping centres.

More suppliers are selling D2C: is this an increasingly important part of your business? If so, how do you think this will affect high street trade?

We’ve been working on the D2C basis from the very start. It creates an excellent opportunity to maintain direct contact with buyers. However, our product is much better perceived through a real-life experience, so we’re actively looking for retail partners. Being able to touch the product creates a completely di erent impression.

Regarding the impact on retail stores, it’s worth noting that there are di erent types of consumers: some prefer online shopping, while others buy o ine. So it’s important to o er both ways to meet the needs of each audience.

Considering some of the cost-of-living pressures have eased, will you be reflecting this in your pricing strategy moving forward and if so, how?

The increase in basic costs has left many people with less money to spend on premium goods. This is why we work on creating products in di erent price categories, while maintaining our quality. This approach allows us to remain a ordable to a wider scope of buyers, so everyone can ﬁnd a unique high-quality item for their homes.

Trade talk

Lawrence Savage UK Marketing Manager

Exacompta Clairefontaine

How has 2024 been for you?

The business has been going through a transitional period, which has seen us experience various enhancements across several areas, including our UK product manufacturing capabilities and a focus on building our customer relationships.

Our operations have become much more dynamic in relation to order processing and warehousing. Having developed more flexible distribution logistics to accommodate the increasingly varied customer delivery requirements across different localised regions, we have been able to consistently achieve a 98% service rate, which allows our distributors to maximise profitable sales potential.

For 2025, do you have any news to share?

We’ve got some big plans to bring our popular Avenue Mandarine and Maildor brand closer together, which offers a comprehensive selection of educational games and crafts, alongside a range of premium sticker packs.

We also have an exciting launch planned for our upcoming expansion of Darwi art and crafting products, as well as a selection of stunning new additions to our bestselling Rhodia notebooks and journals.

More suppliers are selling D2C: is this an increasingly important part of your business? If so, how do you think this will affect high street trade?

As well as maintaining a trade only policy to support our resellers, we’ve been expanding our library of customer marketing POS and online collateral, in addition to developing our category management initiatives. These enable us to focus on new product innovations that enrich our customers’ category listings in the fulfilment of end-user demands.

Sarah Watmore Owner

Miss Milly

More suppliers are selling D2C: is this an increasingly important part of your business? If so, how do you think this will affect high street trade?

Our D2C has grown pretty much organically through a mixture of people generally buying more online, and customers who’ve been gifted Miss Milly- or have bought Miss Milly themselves in a stockist - wanting the matching earrings that the shop doesn’t have, or they love the brand after seeing it elsewhere in the UK.

It’s growing but it’s still only 2% of our business. We have a form on our website that users can fill in to find out where their nearest stockists are, and we receive an average of one request a day. So we’re making sure to send consumers to our stockists where we can.

We also have a private Facebook group for our retailer customers, where we can ask who still has stock of a certain item that’s been requested by a member of the public that they can’t find in their nearest shop or online with us.

Considering some of the cost-of-living pressures have eased, will you be reflecting this in your pricing strategy moving forward and if so, how?

We have, and always will have, a policy of not putting our prices up annually ‘just because’. We were advised to raise prices once a year by a business coach, but wouldn’t get onboard! We believe strongly in the idea that if our prices are affordable, our stockists can charge affordably, and in the end everybody does better. And not only do we not automatically put prices up, we also bring them down when we can. Prices are set at the start of each season according to the exchange rate and anticipated shipping costs, which obviously fluctuate.

We also maintain the price points with any seasonal restocks, which is definitely not always in our favour, particularly if we have to bring goods in by air instead of sea. But as a famous supermarket chain says: ‘Every little helps.’

Scott Clarke Head of Operations and Sales

Rex London

How has 2024 been for you? I’m pleased so far and we’re on track for a decent final quarter. Our UK wholesale business in particular is having another good year as our customers, old and new, are responding to the efforts of our design and buying teams, which have done a great job in growing our product offering - with plenty more still to come.

More suppliers are selling D2C: is this an increasingly important part of your business? If so, how do you think this will affect high street trade?

Rex has been selling D2C online for many years. It’s a significant, but still very much minority, part of our business. I don’t think our presence in this space should be a concern for our high street customers. We’re careful to maintain a disciplined pricing strategy so we reinforce the RRP and avoid undercutting other sellers. Having a direct to consumer-facing side gives us a direct window to the public to help grow our brand, which has longer term benefits for all our stockists and sellers.

Considering some of the cost-of-living pressures have eased, will you be reflecting this in your pricing strategy moving forward and if so, how?

We’ve always tried to price fairly and aren’t looking to squeeze a few extra pounds out here and there, now that there’s a little more disposable income around. Where it could start to make a small difference is in new product development. We can explore bringing in a few higher value items which we would have thought to be a little too expensive for the market in recent years.

Paul Hooker Managing Director Joe Davies

How has 2024 been for you?

Independent retailers have been working so hard throughout this year to make the most of every opportunity. Our job has been to make sure we have plenty of exciting new products available to support them. For 2024 our ‘Little & Often’ order system really seems to have been just perfect, making sure customers always have stock in the pipeline to keep trade going.

For 2025, do you have any news to share?

Everyone is very excited to be attending Harrogate Christmas & Gift in January. We’ve been working hard developing some super lines to add to our Christmas Collection, and we’ll also be taking along a big selection of seasonal favourites.

Considering some of the cost-of-living pressures have eased, will you be reflecting this in your pricing strategy moving forward and if so, how?

We take every opportunity to help our customers get the stock they need, when they need it - and all at the very best price possible. When a customer places an order, we honour the price it was ordered at, even if prices go up. We then recheck the costings at delivery and this often results in us reducing prices - and then we automatically lower the price on outstanding customer orders too.

Let’s talk about… D2C ecommerce

To D2C, or not to D2C - that is the question. Direct-tocustomer, drop shipping, or however you may choose to describe it, this business strategy - where a company sells its products directly to consumers - has certainly been on the rise among retailers in recent years, as marketplace models have continued to grow and expand.

Many retailers now use D2C as a way to facilitate brands selling on their ecommerce platforms without ever handling the stock themselves. For both retailers and brands, there can be pros and cons to operating this way. But, when managed well, we believe it can be a great addition to any business.

But what are the ‘watch outs’ and the factors to consider to get it right? Firstly, underpinning most D2C operations is a level of technology or infrastructure needed to manage and communicate orders. A lot of businesses underestimate both the time and cost needed to set these up, and the level of maintenance they might need in the long term.

You will also be bombarded with terminology which you may never have come across before like EDI (Electronic Data Interchange) and API (Application Programming Interface) links. So don’t be afraid to ask questions, and make sure you do your homework on what the requirements are to make it a reality.

For many brands, their priority

the D2C business model from a retail perspective

is a wholesale operation with a retailer, and therefore there is an understandable reluctance to consider D2C. However, there are ways to succeed here. It may be part of your negotiation to agree to a capsule wholesale collection of your brand in-store to gain exposure and presence - which you then extend into a wider range online to illustrate the breadth of your offer, especially if you have a lot of colourways or sizes.

Many brands have also started relationships with retailers solely as D2C, but have used this to illustrate how popular they are with endconsumers, and therefore built a business case to be stocked in-store.

At the end of the day, a lot of retailers are under pressure to reduce stock holding, SKU numbers, and the amount of suppliers they deal with. So, D2C is a popular option as it gives

them a chance to trial products with less risk and in a much ‘lighter touch’ way. Taking time to understand the reason why a retailer wants to go down this route, and whether they see it as a long-term option to become a stocked brand, is key.

For end-consumers, there are also pros and cons to this business model. It certainly has been a lever that many sellers have pulled to offer wider ranges of choice but, unless this is well-managed with good online search functionality, or curated properly, it can become overwhelming and confusing for end-consumers.

We would also advocate that D2C is for range extension and should not conflict with, or duplicate, products already stocked. As a retailer, you should always prioritise selling your stocked lines first and build D2C as an additional revenue stream, providing

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

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

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

Email: hello@retail100consulting.co.uk

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

growth - not sales cannibalisation. You also need to consider what the post-sales process looks like for end-consumers. Will they understand if the parcel arrives in the brand’snot the retailer’s - packaging? And what is their customer service route if there is an issue: is it the brand or the retailer? Keeping this as seamless and simple as possible is key to not ending up with high returns rates or poor reviews.

For most retailers (and brands), we believe D2C can be a useful part of your operation - when you have properly considered its purpose and role within your business.

D2C needs to be planned and well considered but not dismissed out of hand, as it can create wider brand exposure and help gain access to new customers. It’s certainly not going away… So, make it work for you.