Gifts Today October 2024 by Lema Publishing

Gifts Today

Harrogate Christmas & Gift Years

The UK’s ONLY Christmas trade show!

Gifts Today Contents

Marian McNamara Marian@lemapublishing.co.uk

Editor Clare Turner Clare@lemapublishing.co.uk

Layout/Design

Rick Vickers rick@lemapublishing.co.uk

Managing

Mark Naish mark@lemapublishing.co.uk

Production

Paul Naish paul@lemapublishing.co.uk

44 Trade Talk: Leading gift suppliers reveal their predictions for hot trends in Christmas gifts, and their recommendation of wish list

Shop Talk: As we gear up to the golden quarter, independent gift retailers share how they are preparing for the Yuletide season

Cover Story

Fair Focus

WMessage from the Editor

LinkedIn: @giftstoday

Twitter: @giftstodaymag

Instagram: @giftstodaymedia

e are moving into the golden quarter and the gift industry is gearing up for its busiest period of the year.

Golden sales opportunities abound, from Halloween, Diwali, Bonfire Night, Black Friday and Cyber Monday - culminating, of course, in Christmas. But from what I’ve been hearing from readers, many customers have got a head start on their festive shopping this year.

In fact, as I write this in mid-October, John Lewis and Waitrose have just reported that customers are getting ready for Christmas earlier than ever before. Sales of decorations from the John Lewis Christmas Shop - which includes baubles, trees and decorations - are up 20% year on year in total, while searches on Waitrose.com for Christmas gifts and party food are up threefold.

Lisa Cherry, head of buying for Christmas for John Lewis, commented: “We’ve been surprised to see that customers are shopping earlier than ever this year. Sales are significantly up as customers can’t wait to get their hands on some festive sparkle, and we see they’re buying with confidence.”

Her observation is echoed by some of the independent gift retailers we’ve spoken to for this issue’s Shop Talk section. According to Mark and Marion Flaherty, co-owners of Best Wishes Cards & Gifts in the Lancashire town of Garstang, customers started asking in August when the Christmas cards would be out! For Rachel Buckley, joint owner of RBUK, Christmas arrived at her Rochdale shop in late September/early October.

Our diarist Greg Rose, co-owner of Maybugs gift shop chain, which is about to add another branch to its three-strong portfolio in November (see news story on page 6), agrees. “Customers are starting to think about Christmas already,” he says, “and we’ve found they tend to buy a few things each month to help with money and saving.”

So, ensuring you’re well prepared for this peak season is crucial - and we’re here to help! This issue is packed with business tips and tactics from industry experts. There’s sage advice on the best ways to navigate this critical fourth quarter from The Giftware Association CEO Sarah Ward, and Retail100 Consulting director and co-founder Neil Amer - plus leading suppliers share their predictions of hot trends in Christmas gifts and recommendations of wish list winners in our Trade Talk section.

Our pages are also bursting with new gift inspiration for any last-minute Christmas must-haves and stocking fillers, from fragrance gifts, Made in Britain products, gift food, cosy socks, and lots more! We also take an advance look at Valentine’s Day offerings for next year, plus some exciting Spring/ Summer 2025 collections.

Our Cover Star this month is Museums & Galleries (M&G), which is eager to shine the spotlight on Helen Ahpornsiri: the artist behind its Wild Press collection of gift products and cards, which have achieved great success with art-loving consumers across the country.

2024 sees Helen’s debut in M&G’s Christmas collection, with four new, specially commissioned exclusive designs. You can read more about this talented artist and the extraordinary images of wildlife she creates out of pressed florals on page 14. M&G is already working with Helen on the next generation of designs and products for Wild Press. What’s coming next? Watch this space!

In the meantime, in the words of Neil Amer, Q4 in retail can feel hard going and never-ending but it should be exhilarating, and it’s about thriving so… Buckle up: this is where the magic happens!

So, how has trading been for you so far in this final quarter? If you’d like to share your story, please get in touch at clare@lemapublishing.co.uk or connect with me on LinkedIn. I look forward to hearing from you.

Clare Turner, Editor clare@lemapublishing.co.uk

News

GA reveals Gift of the Year 2025 Awards judges

The Giftware Association (GA) has launched the Gift of the Year 2025 Awards: a prestigious platform designed to get new products in front of UK’s leading gift buyers. With more than 100 retailers and industry experts on the judging panel, taking part in the Awards o ers a huge amount of exposure for brands.

GA said: “The diversity of our judging panel reﬂects the diverse range of products that enter the Gift of the Year competition each year. The judges are not only experts in the giftware industry but also passionate buyers who are constantly on the lookout for the next bestselling product. They represent a wide variety of sectors, ensuring that every entrant gets the opportunity to shine in front of a broad audience of key decision-makers.”

Participating in the Gift of the Year 2025 Awards is a chance to gain invaluable exposure in front of top retailers; have your products seen by inﬂuential buyers eager to discover new, exciting products; and be part of an industry-renowned event that celebrates innovation, creativity, and excellence in giftware. For more information, email awards@ga-uk.org or chris.workman@ga-uk.org.

View the list of judges at https://www.giftoftheyear.co.uk/judging/meet-the-judges

Search is on for the UK’s favourite local business

Shop local champion Miconex has launched its 2024 national search to ﬁnd the UK’s Favourite Local Business. The winner will be the business which garners the most unique votes at www.lovelocalwin.co.uk, and will receive a £500 local gift card, with one person who nominated them winning a £1,000 local gift card.

Miconex operates more than 200 local gift card programmes around the world, including Town & City Gift Cards in the UK and Ireland, with over £30 million spent locally to date and over 20,000 businesses participating.

Managing director Colin Munro (pictured) said: “With UK’s Favourite Local Business, we’re encouraging people to think about the local businesses, big and small, that have a positive impact on their community, from shops and restaurants, to hotels and salons. It’s a reminder of the di erence that local businesses make and a plea to think local as we approach the festive season.

“The Christmas trading period is crucial for businesses, and when people choose to shop local it helps businesses to stay open, to keep on employing local people - and contributes to community vibrancy.”

Maybugs spreads its wings

The multi-awardwinning independent gift retailer Maybugs is set to open a new store, in the Kent town of Tunbridge Wells, on November 1. Maybugs was established in 2018 and currently operates three stores, in the East Sussex towns of Hailsham, Eastbourne and Bexhill.

Artist’s impression of the new Maybugs store in the Kent town of Tunbridge Wells

The company is owned by Gifts Today diarist Greg Rose and John Dale. Greg said: “We’ve been hunting for the right premises in Tunbridge Wells for two years. We knew where we wanted to be, but because of various reasons and holdups, it took a long time. We are just thrilled to ﬁnally be bringing Maybugs to the fabulous people of Tunbridge Wells - and just in time for Christmas too!”

John added: “For Maybugs to be expanding out of our Sussex base into Kent is a huge milestone for us. In just six years we’ve built and expanded this business to create a retail brand, and this is a sign of our ambitious opening programme to expand the Maybugs brand and ethos over the next few years.”

The competition closes on October 31. Enter free at: www.lovelocalwin.co.uk

The new branch will stock some of the biggest brands in the industry including Wrendale Designs, Carrie Elspeth jewellery, Inis, and Roka bags. John noted: “We’re also delighted to be partnering with Charlie Bears and Fox Under The Moon to bring them to Tunbridge Wells for the very ﬁrst time. Alongside the big brands will be hundreds of unique and fabulous gift ideas, including brand-new categories for Maybugs such as artisan food gifts and beauty gift sets.”

John Dale and Greg Rose outside Maybugs Hailsham

A new type of show

There is a brand new tradeshow in town! However, there is one di erence: its online! The Gift Fair is the ﬁrst of its kind taking place between 8th January – 28th February. Clare Turner speaks with show organiser Fabian Santoro to ﬁnd out more...

What was the inspiration behind your decision to launch this new trade show platform?

We’ve all noticed the rising costs of, well, everything. The pressure on businesses, especially independent retailers, is mountingand attending physical trade shows, either as a buyer or an exhibitor, is no exception.

We’ve all become more ‘tech savvy’ since Covid. Those who barely used computers now rely on them to order online for their stores, or conduct meetings over Zoom or Teams. This is why now is the perfect time to embrace a new perspective on trade shows!

So, are you aiming to replace traditional trade fairs?

No, this platform is not here to replace traditional trade shows. They are great, and will always have their place! The Gift Fair is here to accompany them - much like e-commerce does to bricks-and-mortar retail.

What are the beneﬁts of The Gift Fair? There are many, so let’s go through them.

Beneﬁts for exhibitors:

• Our stands are a single flat fee - there are no extras, no hidden costs, and no commissions.

• We offer the opportunity to present your brand to a global audience.

• Setting up a stand literally takes minutes –you won’t believe how easy it is.

Beneﬁts for visitors:

• The platform is incredibly easy to use; even your grandmother could use it.

• You can visit when it’s convenient to you, whether you’re in your office or on the move.

• You, as the buyer, initiate contact. So, there are no cold approaches, allowing you to maintain your privacy.

Beneﬁts for the planet:

• The platform drastically reduces the amount of waste plastic, paper, metal, and rubble produced at a physical trade show.

• The carbon footprint is reduced; transport and shipping are a huge contributor to the carbon footprint of physical trade shows.

Beneﬁts for the industry:

• Democratising trade shows: everybody has an equal opportunity to shine.

• The Gift Fair is designed so the best products win, not the people with the biggest marketing budgets.

• It’s an open and transparent platform that offers empirical information on how many people are coming and engaging with your stand, and therefore the industry.

As you can see, there are many pros to an online trade show. Other beneﬁts that a ect everyone include a better work-life balance. The burdens or inconvenience of an in-person trade show are removed. Also, one of the major factors is the cost beneﬁt to all involved. Your money can be spent where it matters, not on transport, shipping and hotel rooms! This truly is a trade show that works around you, not the other way around.

How do readers contact you to ﬁnd out more? Visit www.thegiftfair.com for more information, and reach out to the team at info@xpofairs.com They would be thrilled to give you a demo, so you can see for yourself just how simple it is!

Who are Xpo Fairs?

Xpo Fairs launched in 2024, but the concept had been developing in the background for a while. With over 70 years of combined experience in attending and exhibiting traditional trade shows, the company’s founders knew that many have been wrestling with the challenges of the industry for years.

Fabian Santoro, formerly from Santoro London, started Xpo Fairs after talking to hundreds of companies and buyers, alongside reﬂecting on his own experiences. Being from the gift industry themselves, the founders understand the unique challenges this sector faces, particularly for small independent businesses.

While Xpo Fairs is a new concept, it has been developed with a deep understanding of trade shows, grounded in personal experience. The platform retains the valuable aspects of trade shows, such as fostering opportunities to collaborate with new brands, while eliminating many of the common challenges associated with them.

Even though it’s a digital platform, the Xpo Fairs team is always available to assist with any questions and will support you throughout the entire event. With extensive trade show experience, the team truly understands what they’re doing and can o er expert guidance.

Dan and Aarun can give you a demonstration on how the software works, while Bethany and Khushi can answer any questions you may have and can help with promoting your company throughout the show.

Call: +44 (0)208 781 1106

info@xpofairs.com

www.thegiftfair.com

As we enter the critical fourth quarter, it’s time to reflect on what this period really means for our industry.

Traditionally, this time of year is when retailers and suppliers alike hope to make up for the year’s challenges, with some smaller SMEs (Small and Medium-sized Enterprises) relying on this period for up to 60% of their annual sales. For many, Q4 is a make-or-break period. But are we approaching it with the right mindset and strategy?

Despite the rapid growth of e-commerce, it’s surprising to find that 89% of retail sales still occur in bricks-and-mortar stores. This statistic underscores why even digital giants like Amazon are expanding into physical retail.

However, the success of these stores is not guaranteed. Retailers across the UK are grappling with significant challenges. A lot of articles I’ve read recently suggest that prepandemic normality is making a comeback, but the reality is that our landscape has fundamentally changed, and many retailers are finding it tougher than ever to navigate this new terrain.

It’s important to understand that the struggles of many stores are not just due to a decline in foot traffic or a shift to online shopping. The problem is more nuanced. It involves the geographical area and local economic conditions.

Some places are thriving, while others are finding life a struggle. Why is this the case, and what can we learn from these differences?

For suppliers, the golden quarter is a period of intense activity and significant

Be prepared

Sarah Ward, CEO of The Giftware Association, asks: are we approaching the golden quarter with the right mindset and strategy?

risk. The stakes are incredibly high, especially for SMEs. We’ve all heard too many stories of founders and owners not paying themselves a salary, instead taking dividends while working seven days a week. This is not sustainable. We need to shift our focus from merely surviving to proactively planning for growth.

“We need to shift our focus from merely surviving to proactively planning for growth”

Recent comparisons between US and UK trade during Q4 have highlighted some stark contrasts.

According to an article in US business magazine Forbes, UK retailers struggle more on the earnings front compared to their US counterparts. Even nondiscount retailers in the UK have seen revenues go up, but profits are down.

In contrast, US retailers have managed their earnings more effectively. This begs the question: what are US retailers doing differently, and what lessons can UK businesses learn?

One crucial point to consider is the ongoing debate over pricing and wage changes. With the Labour government proposing changes to pay structures, it’s more important than ever for retailers to consider how these changes

will impact their profit margins. Some retailers have been reluctant to pass on additional costs to consumers, but this strategy is becoming increasingly unsustainable. It’s affecting every aspect of business, from supply chain management to staffing.

Given the current landscape, there are several key messages that retailers and suppliers need to take to heart:

• Proactive planning over reactive survival: too often, businesses find themselves in a reactive mode, responding to challenges as they arise rather than planning ahead. This is especially true during Q4. Proactive planning is essential to navigate this crucial period successfully. Businesses should be asking themselves now: what shows are we participating in for 2025? Have we mapped out a growth strategy that accounts for potential disruptions?

• Focus on profit over turnover: while turnover is important, it’s profit that keeps the lights on. Many businesses still use turnover as a primary measure of success, but this can be misleading. It’s time for a paradigm shift towards focusing on profit as the key metric. This approach encourages more sustainable business practices and can help businesses weather economic uncertainties better.

• Understand your customers: this involves more than just knowing what products they want; it’s about understanding their shopping habits, preferences, and pain points. Retailers that excel in this area will be the ones

who turn the golden quarter into a golden opportunity.

• Growth planning checklist: it’s time to adopt a growth planning checklist. This should include: reviewing current financial health and setting realistic profit targets; assessing market trends and adapting product offerings accordingly; strengthening supply chain relationships to ensure reliability and cost-effectiveness; enhancing customer experience both online and in-store; and preparing for potential economic changes, including regulatory shifts.

As we approach the festive season, we must recognise that while the golden quarter represents a golden opportunity, it can also be a significant pitfall for those who are unprepared. By adopting a proactive approach, focusing on profit over turnover, and truly understanding our customers, we can turn these challenges into opportunities.

The retail landscape may be shifting, but with careful planning and strategic foresight, there is every reason to believe that we can navigate these changes successfully. Let’s make this golden quarter not just a time of survival, but a time of growth and prosperity.

Gifts unlimited

Bring out the birthday candles - Harrogate Christmas & Gift is turning 75 in 2025, says show organiser Simon Anslow

For most retailers in almost every sector in the UK, Christmas is the key commercial season of the year - and successful sales during November and December will oil the wheels and keep them turning for the following 12 months.

So it’s hardly surprising that one of the ﬁrst ‘must-attend’ events of 2025 will be Harrogate Christmas & Gift, which takes place from January 12 to January 15 at the Harrogate Convention Centre in Yorkshire. It’s billed as the only UK trade show for Christmas retailers and everyone involved in any type of giftware from independent retailers, department stores and garden centres, to tourist attractions and ﬂorists.

Harrogate Christmas & Gift is certainly not new to the festive arena - it’s one of the longest running trade shows in the UK, ﬁrst opening its doors in 1950. As show organiser Simon Anslow explains: “The show celebrates 75 years in 2025 and was primarily toyfocused, with suppliers ﬁlling the hotels of Harrogate with the latest new products to present to toy shops and retailers. Over the decades the show has evolved, with the toy industry moving to a London show, while the Christmas sector remained in Harrogate.”

Since its conception, Harrogate Christmas & Gift has continued to evolve, primarily to cater to demand. Christmas celebrations in the 1950s and 1960s were simple a airs with a handful of traditions for the majority of families. Christmas trees, paper chains, Santa and stockings have been around for decades.

Christmas 2025 is a much more lavish a air, with American and European traditions bringing a huge new melting pot of sales opportunities. From Elves on Shelves, Christmas Eve boxes and even pet grottos, the festive season spreads from September to January, bringing months of joy and happiness to British consumers and, of course, retailers in the industry.

Harrogate Christmas & Gift 2025 is expected to be bigger than ever, with demand for exhibition space growing year-on-year and extending to eight halls packed with every imaginable gift and decoration for Christmas, plus numerous ranges for year round gifting.

Simon says: “We’ve been in the fortunate position to have a waiting list of companies wishing to participate and have consequently just opened an additional hall - Hall G.” This hall is the new home for Netherlands-based Kaemingk, with a range of Christmas trees, lights and decorations promising innovation and versatility.

Also taking advantage of the new space is CB Imports - one of the UK’s largest importers of artificial flowers and giftware; Lotus Imports, which specialises in home décor products from Christmas floral arrangements and stems to artificial flowers; Widdop & Co., a wholesaler of gifts and homeware; and Swan Mill Group, Penny Kennedy and The Great British Card Company, which all specialise in cards, gift wrap and paper accessories.

Other notable new exhibitors at the show include Eurowrap (stand D3) - a supplier of multiple products in the gift packaging industry serving many leading retailers in the UK, Scandinavia and Europe; Sienna Glass (Conference Centre Entrance); Calipso Roast (G14) - a family business established for over 40 years which is now amongst the leading importers and distributors of ﬂoral sundries and packaging; and Aromatize, with a range of candles, di users and scented products.

Unfortunately, Pineapple Circus has gone into administration. However, Apac (stand Q10) has taken its stock for anyone who placed orders at Harrogate and still requires those products.

For a full list of exhibitors, and to register to visit the show, go to www.harrogatefair. com. There are still a few stand spaces available too, so if you are a supplier wishing to take advantage of the UK’s favourite industry trade show, contact simon@harrogatefair.com.

What: Harrogate Christmas & Gift

Where: Harrogate Convention Centre, Harrogate, North Yorkshire

When: January 12-15 2025

Email: simon@harrogatefair.com

Visit: www.harrogatefair.com

New products

Floral fancy

Alexander Thurlow

One of the beauties of flowers is that there are so many varieties and colours and with that, there will always be opportunities for Alexander Thurlow’s range of floral jewellery to grow.

The latest selection of flora is a romantic bunch and includes Wisteria, Rosemary and pink Roses, making ideal gifts for love, remembrance and friendship.

The Wisteria is such a delicate flowing bloom and this has been captured magnificently by Alexander Thurlow: the brooch is elegant, oh so feminine, and a truly desirable adornment to a spring outfit, while the matching necklace and earrings are as pretty as a picture.

Alexander Thurlow has also redesigned its ever-popular Rose earrings and necklace. Now available in a new improved shape and a gorgeous shade of pink, they have a wonderful air of English country gardens and will make lovely gifts.

Moving from country gardens to kitchen gardens, a Rosemary bush is never far away. Its aromatic scent and delicate purple flowers make this a romantic herb, which has long been gifted as symbols of love and fidelity, used in wedding bouquets and foliage. As a symbol of everlasting memories, it’s also a thoughtful gift of remembrance.

Fresh addition

Best Kept Secrets

In response to the popularity of Best Kept Secrets’ Just Because collection, the brand has expanded the range with more products that are ideal for special occasions.

New introductions include Just Because wax melt cards, which are available in all the scents from the Just Because range. They contain either eight large or 16 small wax melt cubes, making them a versatile and heartfelt gift. Like the Just Because tins, these wax melts can be personalised, adding a unique touch that enhances their sentimental value.

Call: 01670 512222

Email: sales@bestkeptsecrets.co.uk

Visit: www.bestkeptsecrets.co.uk

Alexander Thurlow’s take on Rosemary is timeless and classic.

The company has a new look to build on the brand’s well-respected name and established history. This includes new design presentation cards and a new logo. The cards offer a cleaner and more sophisticated presentation of the jewellery, while staying true to their desire to remain environmentally accountable, while the rebrand will bring the ATLondonJewels and Love Nature Love Flowers brands together, to celebrate Alexander Thurlow.

Visit the company’s website to explore all of the new arrivals as well as firm favourites, including the Irises, Bluebells and Snowdrops, to get your shop ready for spring.

Call: 020 8766 6466

Email: sales@alexanderthurlow.com

Visit: www.alexanderthurlow.com/trade

A message of hope Enesco

Enesco has released a new figurine by Willow Tree that embodies messages of hope, connection, and serenity. The piece has been thoughtfully created by artist Susan Lordi to resonate with personal experiences and emotions, offering comfort and inspiration to those who receive it. Bright Hope, a radiant symbol of courage and renewal, adorns the sentiment: “Bold confidence and bright hopes for you.” The figurine holds a bouquet of vivid pink tulips, offering a message of encouragement for those facing difficult times or embarking on new journeys. The tulips’ bold hue represents bravery and the promise of hope, serving as a daily reminder that, like the spring blooms, hope is enduring and ever-present. This meaningful gift speaks to the heart. Enesco invites you to share with your customers, bringing hope, connection, and peace to gift-givers and receivers everywhere.

Call: 01228 404022

Email: uksales@enesco.co.uk

Visit: www.enesco.co.uk

New arrivals

Joe Davies

Specs chains have evolved beyond mere practicality, emerging as a fashion accessory. The latest Equilibrium Specs Chain Collection offers a range of designs, each plated in genuine silver and presented in elegant Equilibrium branded gift boxes. With these chic chains, you can keep your glasses safe whilst making a style statement!

Meanwhile, ceramics are having a moment in the world of gifts. With this in mind, Joe Davies has lots of lovely ceramic products including ‘Petite Pottery’: a charming range of mini vases that are perfect for delicate buds or foliage.

In subtle colours such as cream, pink, grey, blue and green with a distressed finish, these vases are extra special as they sit in little groups to display a few single flowers. There are several shapes to choose from, on-trend mini mushrooms, mini houses and even mini urns. Their petite size makes them ideal for displaying single artificial or tiny bouquets of real or dried flowers - the choices are endless.

Call: 0161 975 6300

Email: sales@joedavies.co.uk

Visit: www.joedavies.co.uk

Stitch up Namaste

As the colder months approach, add a splash of colour to your wardrobe with Namaste’s 100% wool rainbow granny square crochet pieces. Handcrafted by skilled women artisans in Nepal, these cardigans, vests, hats, bags, scarves, headbands, and beanies feature vibrant hues and intricate details like contrasting borders and fringed ends.

Not only do they provide warmth and style, but each piece also supports sustainable craftsmanship and the empowerment of women. Embrace the season with these joyful, artisan-made accessories.

Call: 01756 700790 | Email: sales@namaste-uk.com

Visit: namaste-uk.com

Game on!

Cheatwell Games

Set to become a big favourite with gamers and families alike, Skullduggery has innovative, engaging gameplay and an appealing design.

Players divide up plundered booty in this cunning card game of treasure and treachery - swapping and switching the spoils as they swindle their way to acquiring the most loot. They compete to make off with their fair share but can be double-crossed by sneaky shipmates. Skullduggery tokens are used to hoodwink rivals and ransack their riches. It’s the game of piratical pilfering that separates the seasoned sea dogs from listless landlubbers.

Skullduggery was the winner of the People’s Choice Award for Best General Card Game at the UK Games Expo 2024.

Call: 02392 524 098 | Email: sales@cheatwell.com

Visit: www.cheatwell.com

The Art of Flowers

Acharming and modest artist called Helen Ahpornsiri recently had a brush with fame as she crossed the concourse at Victoria train station in London.

A smiling young woman approached her, thrilled to point out they both were carrying the same tote bag. Imagine the young woman’s surprise when Helen told her she was speaking to the artist!

Helen’s organic cotton tote bags and other gift items are produced under licence by Museums & Galleries (M&G), and have achieved great success with art-loving consumers across the country. Helen’s range is labelled ‘Art Press’ by M&G, in reference to Helen’s method of painstakingly piecing her images together from pressed ﬂowers and foliage, foraged by herself.

M&G launched a ‘Wild Press’ collection of cards in 2021. The range was a runaway success from the start, with the artist’s clever and intricate collages of largely British wildlife - made out of pressed ﬂowers and foliage - striking an immediate chord with

Museums & Galleries shines the spotlight on Helen Ahpornsiri: the artist behind its Wild Press collection of gift products and cards

retailers and consumers alike.

The card range rapidly developed and now comprises over 30 designs, with the most popular making the transfer to gift product lines of boxed notelets; a range of gift wraps, bags and tissue; organic cotton tote bags and pouches; aprons, oven gloves, tea towels and cotton and paper napkins; cushions; insulated bottles and mugs; as well as playing cards, jigsaw puzzles, bookmarks, notebooks, and journals. 2024 sees her debut in M&G’s Christmas collection, with four brand-new specially commissioned exclusive designs. Based in East Sussex, Helen grows and collects ﬂora, foliage, and seaweeds, which she preserves with traditional ﬂower pressing methods before delicately reimagining them into artworks.

She works with a variety of ﬂora, preferring fern and wildﬂower species. Flowers commonly considered weeds are unassuming yet familiar - they can be imbued with folk tales and personal connotations which resonate with people in di erent ways. The artist is interested in the idea of preserving plants like these and giving them a new narrative.

A guiding principle she follows in working with natural materials is always to contribute more than she takes. The majority of the plants she uses in her work are grown in her small garden. Selected ﬂora is cut for pressing, leaving the rest of the plant to continue growing and providing for the local wildlife.

If foraging from the wild, she follows the BSBI [Botanical Society of Britain & Ireland] code of conduct, only collecting small specimens from abundant species, being careful to cause as little disturbance to the environment as possible.

Helen is very enthusiastic about ﬂower pressing. She says: “Flower pressing is a great activity for both children and adults. It is a wonderful way to discover, appreciate, and build a connection with the natural world.

“ ” Helen creates absolutely extraordinary images of wildlife out of pressed ﬂorals

“Presses can often be found in second-hand shops or made using wood, bolts, and wingnuts/ straps. Even an old book can be used as a flower press. Most plants that are quite flat will press nicely. There is a lot of trial and error in flower pressing; try the di erent flowers and leaves around you and see what works.

“Some of my favourite plants to press are ferns, forget-me-nots, Queen Anne’s Lace, and violas. Excess moisture on your ﬂowers should be avoided, so try not to pick on rainy days or dewy mornings. If picking from a garden, only pick a few ﬂowers at a time, as it’s best to keep them as fresh as possible before pressing.”

Helen creates absolutely extraordinary images of wildlife out of pressed ﬂorals, using negative space as well as the pressed material itself to create the image.

A brilliant example of her technique is ‘Wildflower Hare’: a collage of a hare rising out of a bed of wildflowers to observe its environment. The collaged pressed florals make up both the meadow and the

form of the hare - a brilliant combination of using the pressed materials as collage and as a drawing medium. The hare is perfectly depicted and with great personality. The design is one of the stars of the collection and, as such, appears on many of the gifting, gift stationery and home and giftware products.

Helen explains: “Most of the flowers which form this hare are wild species grown in my little garden. You can spot wild strawberries, forget-me-nots, dandelions, toadflax, poppies, and many more traditional wildflowers.”

‘Wildﬂower Hare’ has become an iconic Museums & Galleries design, reports Ben Dorney, creative director of M&G. He explains: “We rapidly designed a repeat design based on the original to go on gift wrap, tissue paper and gift bags. It’s now transferred to M&G organic cotton products - cushions, the new kitchen textiles (oven gloves, aprons, tea towels, and napkins) as well as tote bags. It also features on our insulated metal bottles and mugs, and various journal formats. It’s a phenomenal best seller, which is a real credit to Helen’s incredible talent as an artist.”

The move this year to Christmas designs presented a number of challenges around the selection and foraging of the foliage and floral source materials, as well as the time it takes to painstakingly compose the thousands of individual floral pieces which comprise the final artwork.

However, Helen has risen to the occasion, and M&G is proud to present four new designs by Helen Ahpornsiri for Wild Press in its 2024 Christmas Designer Collection.

She has chosen a running theme of a wreath-like spray of foliage to frame various Christmas animal motifs, set o in jewel-like colours against a dark background.

There is a new winter version of the Wildﬂower Hare, a cheeky new squirrel holding a nut, Christmas mice, and a fabulous winter robin. Each image captures a perfect moment in time and are standout seasonal designs.

The new Christmas designs are printed on textured board and are packed with white envelopes

(eight single designs to a pack), in smart cardboard ‘Designer Collection’ boxes. SRP is £5.75 per pack. The full collection of four designs also come as a Theme Pack with ﬁve each of all four (20 cards and envelopes in total). SRP is £8.39.

Helen and M&G are already working on the next generation of designs and products for ‘Wild Press’. What’s coming next? Watch this space!

Enjoy a bumper golden quarter

Enesco shares how it’s supporting independent retailers through its well-known brands, with Christmas campaigns and breadth of product, during the golden quarter and beyond

More than ever, the golden quarter really is an exciting time for the team at contemporary giftware company Enesco, as they celebrate their 30th anniversary in October.

Enesco Ltd was born following the acquisition of two smaller companies: Lilliput Lane and Border Fine Arts. From the very early days, its mission has always been to support independent retail in many ways. As the years have passed, with online shopping becoming so much more a part of everyday lives, its commitment to high street retailers has never been so strong.

Licensed and everyday giftware

When times are tough, consumers will continue to buy gifts - but what they choose to buy may be di erent. Available in exclusive formats from Enesco, well-known household brands such as Disney, Harry Potter, Yankee Candle, Willow Tree, and Beatrix Potter are all considered trusted and safe purchases, representing quality and excellent value for money - allowing retailers to reach a wider audience. Varying formats and price points are available, o ering a gift for all occasions.

Free of charge shipping

In times of such uncertainty, Enesco has recognised that its customers’ buying patterns have changed to become more ‘little and often’. To support this, the company recently reduced carriage paid orders to £150 as part of its overall commitment to retail. With a quick turnaround from its warehouse based in Carlisle, this is sure to be a welcome change for all.

Are you ready for Stitch?

As Disney and movie fans look forward to the live-action Lilo and Stitch ﬁlm due for release in Summer 2025, the lovable character Stitch has become Disney’s fastest growing franchise, despite being around for over 25 years.

Recognising Stitch’s growing popularity, Enesco is delighted to

present a huge o ering of Stitch-themed product including blind bags, ﬁgurines (from mini to statement pieces), money banks, homewares… the list goes on. A Stitch branded free-standing display unit is available to retailers, allowing them to showcase Stitch with a really impactful statement in-store.

Yankee Candle Christmas campaign

Enesco has been working in partnership with Newell since early 2023 as the exclusive distributor of Yankee Candle, WoodWick and Chesapeake Bay to independent retail.

Together, they have launched the Yankee Candle Christmas campaign entitled “Make It More Magical”, reaching out to consumers through social media, prime time TV advertising, the press, and other forms of external advertising to boost brand visibility.

Retailers are invited to be part of the campaign by purchasing Yankee Candles and accessories which include free in-store point of sale material such as roller banners, window stickers, free-standing signage and posters. A quantity of free Yankee Candle tumblers is also part of the o ering. The mission is to connect emotionally with the consumer, elevating this nostalgic brand, and maximising sales.

And ﬁnally….

Enesco is looking forward to working with customers - existing and new - to maximise the huge potential of the golden quarter by supplying gifts which will continue to bring joy everyday. Here’s to another 30 years!

Call: 01228 404022

Email: uksales@enesco.co.uk

Visit: www.enesco.co.uk

Dolce Vita Bracelets

RRP £19.99

Mini Charms Bracelets

Meela Multiway Bag

Mocha

Unwrap endless fun and games!

HFrom timeless classics to new favourites, entertainment is always guaranteed with House of Marbles’ diverse range of Christmas-themed gifts

ouse of Marbles has been committed to designing, making and selling fun and charming toys and games since 1973. Based in the south-west of the UK, it has been a leading supplier of timeless gifts to retailers for more than 50 years.

The company believes in the power of quality, entertainment, and educational play for all ages. Its extensive collection of products has grown massively over the years, o ering a diverse range of options for everyone to enjoy, from novelties, books, and educational kits to the toys and games it is so well known for.

House of Marbles offers an exciting assortment of Christmas-themed toys and games designed to stand out from the crowd in festive displays. The products are perfect for thoughtful gifts or lively entertainment for celebrations and family gatherings. The wide selection of festive books makes terrific stocking fillers and presents during the jolliest time of the year. Some are old classics with a seasonal twist, that are sure to become a family favourite this Christmas.

The popular Scratch Art set with a festive Christmas theme is a staple arts & crafts item. It features two wooden scratch styluses and a variety of silver and gold hanging ribbons, enabling children to create a marvellous rainbow creation to display on the Christmas tree.

Santa’s Silly Stocking Search game is a festive memory match trivia game packed with holiday cheer, laughter, and excitement for the whole family. Race against the clock in this frantic and fun-ﬁlled quest to save Christmas! It’s sustainably sourced, making it an irresistible impulse buy - and its attractive

packaging and family-friendly appeal will increase tra c and sales.

Discover the thrilling world of strategy, skill, and luck with the Christmas Domino Game. Designed with younger players in mind, the vibrant pieces come in a durable wooden box that showcases them beautifully and provides a convenient storage solution. This product guarantees that your stocking ﬁller gifts are a ordable, fun, and o er endless enjoyment.

Enjoy a collection of lovely marbles inspired by a Winter Wonderland. These timeless classics are delightful to play with and collect. They come in unique packaging, making them the perfect gift or stocking ﬁller.

Get creative with the high-quality Christmas Make and Decorate Tree Decorations Set. It includes everything you need to make tree decorations, fridge magnets, and badges - ideal for creative Christmas activities with family and friends.

House of Marbles also offers an exciting selection of books alongside its toys and games that make wonderful gifts. Perfect for readers of all ages, the Christmas-themed stories capture the magic and joy of the season. Whether you’re looking for heartwarming classics or whimsical stories with beautiful illustrations, there is something for everyone.

The home of stocking ﬁ

TDiscover Rex London’s stocking ﬁller collection, stu ed with joyful gifts from traditional toys to nostalgic novelties for all ages

he festive season will soon be in full swing and Rex London is ready to help keep your store looking bright and inviting with its wide o ering of quirky, high-quality and a ordable gifts.

Rex London is renowned for its colourful designs and retro style. Nowhere is that showcased better than in its stocking ﬁller collection, which is packed full of traditional toys and nostalgic novelties to help make Christmas shopping as fun and simple as possible this year.

Already topping the bestseller lists are the newly arrived Mini Bear in a Little Box and its friend Mini Bunny in a Little Box. These adorable companions were launched following the huge success of the Mini Sausage Dog in A Little Box (which received a highly commended accolade in the children’s, educational and pre-school category of the Gift of the Year Awards 2023), and the Mouse In A Little House before that.

Each soft toy comes in a sturdy card box designed like a vintage matchbox, proving that modern kids like retro style. Children will love to tuck up their new companion in its very own spotty blanket, then shut it away safely for the night. The only question is: which one will they choose?

Older children will be excited to ﬁnd an on-trend jewellery making kit in their stocking on Christmas morning. Using the included beads, clasps and elastic, creative kids can craft personalised necklaces, while Swifties can make friendship bracelets to their heart’s

content. Choose from a chic ﬂower-shaped box, or one shaped like a handbag, complete with a beaded handle.

Alongside these new arrivals are the Rex London classics that prove to be popular stocking ﬁllers year after year: the Traditional Skydiver Toy, Catapult Toy, temporary tattoos, stick on earrings, and many more. For perfect pick-ups, look no further than Rex London’s eye-catching display cases of classic wind-up toys, from sharks to princesses!

Discover a huge range of stocking ﬁllers and Christmas gifts for the whole family on the Rex London trade website. All items are in stock and ready to ship, with no minimum order and carriage paid at £250.

Call: 020 8746 1700

Joe Davies

Good for giving

Revel in the season and check out Joe Davies’ vast array of exciting new arrivals, ready to add a dash of pizzazz to your customers’ homes and wardrobes

Cold comforts

Joe Davies’ snoozies! line of cosy foot coverings continues to be a top seller, having delighted customers for over 12 years with more than two million pairs sold. Combining comfort and style, these slippers are lined with luxurious sherpa ﬂeece and feature non-slip soles.

This season, the collection introduces new ‘Furry Foot Pals’ with adorable cat, mouse, dog, and pig designs available in both kids’ and ladies’ sizes. Additionally, a fresh take on the popular ‘Lots of Dots’ style now includes a charming Dottie bow, and new pairable options such as a Land Rover design for men and an updated owl pattern.

There’s even something for chocoholics and wine lovers to enjoy on a chilly night! To help retailers boost their sales, Joe Davies is o ering a complimentary snoozies! display spinner with any order of 144 pairs. Don’t miss out on stocking up on these best-selling cosy essentials.

Top notch

For fashion accessories, the Equilibrium Collection from Joe Davies has you covered, even for the most di cult-to-shop-for men. As we approach the cold and wet season, the Equilibrium men’s fashion accessories collection o ers the perfect blend of style and functionality, ensuring you stay warm while looking sharp.

The men’s collection includes cosy scarves, chenille beanie hats, and both ﬂeecy and knittedstyle gloves - all packaged in a luxurious branded gift box, making them an ideal Christmas gift.

Pop of pastel

In the realm of home décor and thoughtful gifts, Joe Davies sets the standard with its enchanting new ‘Loving Lavender’ collection of resin gifts. These pieces, crafted with exquisite attention to detail, make perfect presents for friends, family, and loved ones. The range features a delightful theme of lavender pots, pretty ﬂowers, and toadstools in soft pastel colours, each accompanied by a heartfelt message.

Shine

bright

Exciting new Equilibrium jewellery ranges are also beautifully packaged and ready for the festive season. This ever-popular brand consistently delivers perfectly ﬁnished gifts. A standout is the new Geometric Square range, featuring an array of pieces that blend classic shapes with modern design.

With clean lines, sharp angles, and a mix of silver, gold, and rose gold metals, this sophisticated collection adds a contemporary touch to any outﬁt.

Joe Davies has built a reputation for delivering highquality, stylish products that stand the test of time. Ordering couldn’t be easier with its well-known ‘little and often’ quantities and low minimum order value of just £100 for free nationwide delivery.

Getting ready for Spring!

Aromatize is introducing hundreds of new home fragrance accessories in its Aroma Accessories collection for S/S25. The department boasts candle shades and trays, tealights and electric wax melters, wall plug-in melters, tealight holders, and magical carousel shades. All Aroma Accessories products are packaged in colour picture boxes. A must-have for the discerning retailer!

Another exciting launch is a full collection of LED melters. These use a hot plate rather than a bulb to release fragrance from warmed wax. The wax melters are available in both black and white, in a large selection of designs. The black models feature a colour-changing LED and the white models have a co-ordinating white light.

Aromatize will also launch a luxurious range in its Woodbridge brand: a full home fragrance collection of candles, reed di users, and wax melts. The department will house ﬁve sizes of scented candles. Woodbridge has everything from an extra-large multiwicked bowl candle to high-quality tealights. There will be 12 core fragrances at launch. These have been selected to reﬂect the desires of the consumer in the current market. Perfume and laundry scents are proving to be increasingly popular in the home fragrance sector. In addition, there will be four festive fragrances to enjoy later in the year.

Elegant US brand Michel Design Works will also see new fragrances for the season. Aromatize is the exclusive distributor for the UK and Ireland of this much-loved range of personal care products. Michel Design Works is known for its stunning scents and gorgeous decorative labelling.

Of course, the collection from The Straits Trading Co. will shine just as brightly for S/S25. Endless Summer has had a rebrand! This collection is home to stunning ﬂorals, planters, bistro sets, and garden ornaments. The core collection contains furniture, lighting, wall art, ornaments, vases, and more.

With this extensive o ering, many customers trade with

both Straits and Aromatize, enjoying one point of contact for both businesses. Alongside product innovation, the drive for both Straits and Aromatize is providing support and exceptional customer service.

The same friendly o ce team manages both businesses. On the road, there is a national sales team o ering support to independent businesses throughout the UK and Ireland. Two glossy catalogues are produced annually for each company. This is an investment that feels worthwhile, with the aim of inspiring customers.

Both companies will be exhibiting at Spring Fair in February. Plus, the Lancashire showroom is open year-round and ready to welcome visitors who would like to view the extensive collections. There is still time to order Christmas and A/W24, as well as preorder from the new season departments.

The home of stocking ﬁllers

Hundreds of traditional toys, nostalgic novelties and quirky treats now in stock and ready to dispatch.

Best of British

Best Kept Secrets introduces the expanded Three Lites range which has become a favourite for those seeking personalised gifts, and the new Red Collection, proudly carrying the Made in Britain mark

Best Kept Secrets, renowned for its award-winning home fragrance products, proudly announces its recognition with the prestigious Made in Britain mark. This accolade highlights the brand’s commitment to producing high-quality, British-made products that are both a ordable and sustainable, reinforcing its ethos of supporting British craftsmanship and local suppliers.

At the upcoming Spring Fair, Best Kept Secrets will showcase its latest creations, including the hotly anticipated Red Collection. This festive range of wax melt cards, candles, and di users is designed to evoke the warmth and joy of Christmas, o ering consumers a luxurious home fragrance experience at an accessible price point. Each product is hand-poured in its Morpeth workshop using locally sourced materials, ensuring both quality and sustainability.

Alongside the Red Collection, the company is expanding its award-winning Just Because Three Lites range, which has become a favourite for those seeking meaningful, personalised gifts. The new o ering allows retailers to provide bespoke messaging, giving customers the ability to create truly unique and thoughtful gifts for any occasion, from celebrations to “just because” moments. This personalisation, combined with high-quality craftsmanship, has made the Three Lites range a top choice for retailers year after year.

Managing director Vanessa Curry explained: “Being recognised with the Made in Britain mark is a proud moment for us. It reinforces our dedication to supporting British craftsmanship and delivering beautiful, a ordable, and joyous products to our customers.”

Best Kept Secrets’ commitment to sustainability is another key pillar of its success. All products are created using eco-friendly materials, with recyclable packaging and plant-based waxes featuring prominently across its ranges. This focus on environmental responsibility, coupled with its dedication to a ordability, ensures that Best Kept Secrets remains a leading name in home fragrance.

Retailers also beneﬁt from the brand’s bespoke POS solutions, which help to showcase the products e ectively in-store, enhancing their appeal to consumers. The company’s personalised approach to customer service ensures that retailers receive tailored support, allowing them to meet the diverse needs of their shoppers.

As Best Kept Secrets continues to innovate and expand, it is staying true to its British roots, proudly supporting local suppliers while creating products that bring joy and meaning to customers across the UK and beyond.

The latest collections demonstrate that, with a ordability, quality, and sustainability at the forefront, Best Kept Secrets remains a trusted and beloved brand in the home fragrance market.

Wheat-ﬁlled wonders The Wheat Bag Company

The Wheat Bag Company is celebrating 10 years of trading. Over the past decade the supplier, which specialises in creating Microwavable Wheat Bags, has gone from strength to strength. It is continually developing and adding more products to its collection - which is all handmade in the UK, from its workshop in Wiltshire.

Managing director Sally Moore says: “We’re delighted to say that the business is growing year-on-year. We are very proud to be supplying most of the major garden centre chains and independents around the UK including Blue Diamond, British Garden Centres, Klondyke, Notcutts, Squire’s and Stewarts, to name but a few.

“This year we have also started supplying Booths with a large selection of our products, which have been a great success in the upmarket grocery chain’s Lake District stores.”

She continues: “We have been busy working on product development and designed some new Microwavable Wheat Packs. A follow-on from our popular Microwavable Wheat Bags, these are larger in size, making them suitable for placing on speciﬁc parts of the body to help to soothe the user’s aches and pains and keep warm.

“Also new to our range are our Microwavable Hand Warmers. These come in pairs and are perfect for warming in the microwave and popping in pockets to keep hands warm and toasty”.

Sally adds: “We also have some new cotton and linen mix Wheat Bags, which are proving to be very popular.”

Call: 01747 840500 | 01747 840499

Email: sales@thewheatbagcompany.co.uk

Visit: https://thewheatbagcompany.co.uk/

The countdown has begun

The Northumberland Candle Company

British handmade wax melt brand The Northumberland Candle Company is taking TikTok by storm thanks to its innovative and whimsical products. Known for creating themed wax melts around viral trends, as events, the supplier aims to change the way we fragrance our homes.

This year’s advent calendar, which retails for £10, has scents including Winter Rose & Pink Pepper, Fresh Linen, Wild Rhubarb, Marshmallow & Ground Cinnamon, Gingerbread, Bitter Orange & Cedarwood, Candy Cane, Christmas Tree, First Snow, Cranberry Orange and Cinnamon - plus many more!

Call: 07743 787887

Email: contact@thenorthumberlandcandlecompany.com

Visit: https://www.thenorthumberlandcandlecompany.com

Playful twist

Tales & Treats

Tales & Treats of Greater Manchester has launched a limited-edition Christmas candle infused with cinnamon, clove and sweet orange essential oils.

As a fun and playful twist on the traditional “Twelve Days of Christmas” song, it has introduced The Twelve Dogs of Christmas range, featuring 12 of the UK’s most beloved dog breeds including Sta es and Golden Retrievers. Priced at £12.50, these candles make a thoughtful festive gift.

Hand-poured in the UK with natural vegetable wax for a clean, long-lasting burn, they are vegan, cruelty-free and eco-friendly, reﬂecting Tales & Treats’ commitment to sustainability and animal-friendly products.

Call: 07596 199428

Email: sales@talesandtreats.co.uk

Visit: www.talesandtreats.co.uk

Tasty scents

Best Kept Secrets

Best Kept Secrets, renowned for its award-winning home fragrance products, is proud to announce that it has been awarded the prestigious Made in Britain mark. This official recognition highlights the brand’s commitment to producing high-quality, British-made products that are both affordable and sustainable.

From the award-winning Three Lites Boxes to the popular Just Because Collection, each product is carefully hand-poured in the UK, embodying the spirit of British quality. With the Made in Britain mark, Best Kept Secrets continues to showcase the best of British, creating products that bring joy while supporting local industry.

The business, which operates from a workshop in the pretty town of Morpeth in Northumberland, recently introduced five new fragrances to its range: Marshmallow & Green Pistachio, Sugared Violets & Vanilla, Soft Linen & Eucalyptus, Madagascan Vanilla & Salted Caramel, and Something Rouge. These new fragrances are set to enhance the brand’s already diverse selection, making them ideal for any occasion and a perfect choice for festive gifting.

Call: 01670 512222

Email: sales@bestkeptsecrets.co.uk

Visit: www.bestkeptsecrets.co.uk

English amour

Dunoon

Dunoon is a Staffordshire-based family business established over 50 years ago, which produces mugs, cups, saucers, and teapots. Each item is crafted from fine bone china and made in England.

Pictured is the Lovehearts mug on Dunoon’s Lomond shape, which is a great gift for birthdays, anniversaries, or Valentine’s Day. It features a charming heart design in both blue and red with accents of opulent gold.

Also pictured is Lots of Love. This mug’s cheerful heart design will brighten the dullest of days and is sure to bring joy to daily routines. Featuring multicoloured hearts in a playful pattern, it’s the perfect present for any occasion.

Call: 01785 817414

Email: sales@dunoonmugs.co.uk

Visit: www.dunoonmugs.co.uk

Just add sparkle…

Canes for all seasons

Classic Canes

A walking stick should reflect its user’s sense of style every bit as much as their mobility requirements, according to cane specialist Classic Canes. Women in particular enjoy the creative aspect of matching their sticks to their outfits and can amass large collections.

For this winter, Classic Canes recommends warm, cosy colours such as reds, browns and greens. The Somersetbased family business has a huge array of styles, and will create bespoke suggested orders for retailers to ensure their displays are perfect for the season.

When it comes to chaps, walking sticks are a great source of practical and quirky gifts. “Men like presents they can actually use,” says managing director Charlotte Gillan, “and a novelty walking stick such as our aviator duck cane in his smart goggles always raises a smile. Many men love to form collections of interesting canes, so a display of unusual ones can also lead to some great repeat custom”.

Call: 01460 75686

Email: info@classiccanes.co.uk

Visit: www.classiccanes.co.uk

Joma Jewellery

Joma Jewellery’s Spring/Summer 2025 Collection is here! The brand always finds the words you need to make every moment meaningful through its high-quality sentimental jewellery.

The new Mother’s Day Collection is finished with a linear and pretty floral bloom print with sentiments for every stage of motherhood: from those with little ones through to teenage years, and those looking to recognise all the little things mums do - even as adults.

Meanwhile, the Birthstone Collection has been completely reimagined with new jewellery presentation cards designed to be a bestseller, and the brand’s popular Happy Little Moments Collection has new additional phone charms and anklets to inspire happy summer days.

Finally, the world-famous A Little Collection has some beautiful new sentiments. Joma Jewellery says: “We love our themes of new chapters, protection, and friendship - with many more to discover!”

Call: 01295 263430

Email: enquiries@jomajewellery.com

Visit: wholesale.jomajewellery.com

New collection

Letterbox Love

Letterbox Love has launched a brand-new friendship bracelet collection in collaboration with Sam Jayne Designs.

Kerry Bilson, co-owner and founder of the award-winning business which specialises in affordable and meaningful bracelets, says: “We met with Sam at the Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival in Harrogate and immediately hit it off. We quickly realised how incredible a collection with Sam’s well-recognised designs and Letterbox Love bracelets would be - and we were not wrong.

“The pre-orders have been flying in, and we are so excited to see them do so well. These bracelets make the perfect gift for yourself or someone special: they are perfect pick-me-ups and till point additions for your store.”

Pictured are examples from the new Beaded Affirmation range in collaboration with Sam Jayne Designs. A CDU contains 40 bracelets in total: eight designs (five of each design).

Call: 01773 475760

Email: kerry@letterbox-love.co.uk

Visit: www.letterbox-love.co.uk

Spring fresh

Miss Milly

As we look towards the approach of spring, Miss Milly has an abundance of fresh colours to celebrate the arrival of brighter days - and the increase in light is perfectly reflected in a colour palette that embraces iridescence, which works so well in the brand’s resin jewellery lines.

With coral, lilac and mint all worked into opalescence and a beautiful array of other pastels, S/S25 is set to be a feast for the eyes. The other key theme for next season is coastal tones with sea blues and greens, and sandy, sunshine yellow featuring heavily in the new collection.

As with all its launches, Miss Milly has curated a new range of scarves to co-ordinate with the jewellery and help create colourful in-store displays that attract bundle purchases and increased transaction values. The new lines will be launched online in January and available to see at Giving & Living and Spring Fair.

Call: 01905 622509

Email: hello@missmilly.co.uk

Visit: www.missmilly.co.uk

Bags of joy

Katie Loxton

Katie Loxton is thrilled to introduce its Spring Summer 2025 Collection. The range spotlights new suedette materials, subtle buttery vegan leathers, and elevated design details.

Soft powder blue, new neutrals and peony blush pinks are paired with vibrant fuchsia suedette pieces and sunset coral tones to create a collection that feels feminine, timeless and fun!

The brand’s just-landed Laila Crossbody styles are sure to be bestsellers, while its updated Hallie, and Marni, collections are joined by new season silhouettes Celina and Meela.

Mother’s Day is an important gifting occasion, and the soft wave print and the beautiful quote - “To the world you are my mum but to me you are the world”recognises every single mum and perfectly matches back with the brand’s much-loved pink pieces.

This is a key collection which is designed to complement all Katie Loxton’s bestselling bags, accessories and waterproof jewellery.

Call: 01295 250879

Email: enquiries@katieloxton.com

Visit: wholesale.katieloxton.com

Focus on Socks

’Tis the season…

Bare Kind

Bare Kind’s best-selling Christmas range of bamboo socks is back this year, with some new favourites added to the collection.

The socks sold so well last year that the company has included new Christmas animals to the range including cosy Highland cows, turtles with Santa hats, penguins slipping on ice, and hedgehogs covered in fairy lights!

These products also lend themselves perfectly to the gifting season with the addition of gift-wrapped socks in Christmas crackers and baubles. Each cracker comes ready to sell with two pairs of socks inside, and each bauble box is also ready to hang in-store with a pair displayed in each.

Plus, 10% of the profits from each pair of socks goes to one of the conservations and charities of the animal on the sock. This means, not only are you wearing the animals you love, but helping save them too. Basically, these socks make you look good, feel good, and do good.

Call: 03301332566

Email: wholesale@barekind.co.uk

Visit: www.barekind.com

Perfect pairings

Joe Davies

Upgrade your fashion wardrobe with the stylish eco-friendly Equilibrium Bamboo Socks Collection from Joe Davies. Bamboo socks have become a popular choice because of their soft luxurious feel and natural antibacterial qualities.

This vibrant collection offers a variety of fun, eye-catching patterns for both men and women There really is something for all ages and tastes, from trendy mushroom designs and playful dog and quirky sheep designs for ladies, to bold beer, cycling, and car-themed designs for chaps - to name but a few.

Available in single hanging packs or in elegant ‘opening drawer’ gift boxes containing sets of two contrasting pairs, they make a perfect gift. Combine comfort and style with these statement-making socks!

Joe Davies caters to independent retailers, offering its signature ‘little and often’ quantities and a minimum order value of just £100. Stocking up on these sustainable socks has never been easier!

Call: 0161 975 6300

Email: sales@joedavies.co.uk

Visit: www.joedavies.co.uk

Twinkle toes

Namaste

Prepare for winter with Namaste’s vibrant, hand-knitted socks from Nepal. Made from fine wool yarn, these cosy socks are perfect for keeping your feet warm, whether you’re camping, relaxing, or just fighting off a cold day. With their funky patterns and snug fit, they’re your go-to for comfort and style. Treat your feet to a warm hug this season!

Call: 01756 700790

Email: sales@namaste-uk.com

Visit: namaste-uk.com

The word on the street...

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

Well, it feels like summer never arrived, but autumn is here, Halloween is in full swing and it feels like Christmas is go!

What’s Hot?

As has been the trend in recent years, customers are starting to think about Christmas already, and we’ve found they tend to buy a few things each month to help with money and saving.

Hits already are some of our food gift range, like the Bubble Tea Kits from The Tea Shed and the Gin & Tonic Gourmet Popcorn from Joe & Steph’s.

The full range from Wrendale Designs is selling well; the hot water bottles and eye masks in particular are a hit. Super soft with the cutest animal illustrations, customers say they are the perfect gift for loved ones.

If you can get products from Fox Under The Moon, which aims to ‘ﬁnd beautiful ways to say the things that matter’, then stock them! We’re bowled over by how successful the brand has been in all of three of our stores.

We’re already on our second order since discovering it at the Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival in Harrogate, and are now listing it on our website too.

What’s New?

We’ve gone and done it and expanded our plush range. For a long time, we thought that stocking just one

plush brand was the smart way to go. However, with ever increasing prices and the unpredictability of stock availability, we have now ranged collections with Aurora’s Palm Pals, TY, and Charlie Bears across all our stores.

Plush and soft toys is our single biggest category both in-store and online, and we’re convinced this major expansion will only help to grow it at all di erent price points, but also appeal to a wider variety of customers.

During the summer we sourced more holistic and healing products to add to our stores. The gemstones we stock from Widdop & Co. have been selling so well that we’ve expanded the range into a bigger selection of gems, gem trees and Buddha products for the home. They always get a lot of interest in the shops and are selling well so far.

We’ve also started selling dragon ﬁgurines also from Widdop, which were ‘ﬂying’ out the door as soon as we put them on the shelves in our Hailsham store. Hopefully another success story!

We source our gift books from Boxer as we always like to get something a little bit cheeky and di erent to read for a cosy night in. My personal favourite is the new Nudinits “Going Wild in Woolly Bush” by Sarah Simi. The illustrations and innuendo are just brilliant, and will make the perfect gift this season. If no one buys them,

all my friends will be getting one this Christmas.

What’s Dropped?

At this time of year, hopefully nothing is doing that badly! Of course, summer-speciﬁc lines have slowed, but we traded very well throughout so had very little hangover. For me, the sadness as the nights draw in is always replaced with anticipation and excitement about the festive trade, and all the exciting things we have planned!

“Go on, give it a go!”

Gift food is diverse, exciting, and provides endless opportunities to entice consumers. So says

Julie Dachey, co-director of Gifts with Presence. Clare Turner ﬁnds out more

When we spoke in January, Gifts with Presence’s mission was to ‘take product to where the people are’. This included corporate functions and private shopping events. How has the business evolved since then?

Trading this year has been nothing short of sensational. Our diary is fully booked right up until a couple of days before Christmas, which is very exciting.

Our purpose is to create experiences for customers, taking products to them wherever they are. Having test-traded with smaller private shopping events, we found that while there was tremendous interest in the concept, potential for greater growth has come from larger corporate head o ce venues, along with ﬁve-star retirement villages. So we are in prime locations, with consumers who are keen to experience superior products.

Initially the idea was to o er a seasonal gift range including food. But it soon became clear that the food ranges sold through very quickly and

created far greater interest. There is an element of ‘theatre’ in o ering people the chance to learn the provenance of a brand, and then inviting them to taste it. It was an easy decision to solely o er food, while still ensuring seasonal elements within that.

Food as gifts doesn’t always mean a cute gift set of a mug and hot chocolate. Not that there’s anything wrong with that, but when consumers are presented with the opportunity to try delicious produce, they not only buy for themselves but consider premium-quality food as a wonderful ‘problem’ gift solution. For those people who have everything, menfolk, and for those you don’t know that well, a foodie treat will always be appreciated.

What’s your product mix?

Our key suppliers are Snowdonia Cheese Company, Single Variety Co., Hawkshead Relish Company, Driver’s Pickles, Lottie Shaw’s, and The Gourmet Chocolate Pizza Company. There are loads more in the pipeline too.

We sell a crazy amount of cheese (Snowdonia’s is fabulous: we sell waxed truckles so there’s no

“

” Any food item can be a terrific gift option when it’s imaginatively displayed, backed by interactive tastings - and selected from suppliers who are passionate about their products and keen to offer support

issue with keeping them fresh or having a short shelf life, and it’s astonishing how many are bought as gifts), and all our preserve ranges have a devout following.

Single Variety Co. preserves perform extremely well. The best sellers are Jalapeño Jam, and Lemon

PHOTO CREDIT: Pete Jenkins

very hot

sell loads as gifts for chaps in particular!

How do you find products?

flavour

The Farm Shop & Deli Show is best for us. Consumer shows and fairs can also be a great source for smaller companies with real stories to tell. For example, I found some traditional rum cake from Harrison & Griffiths at the Melton Mowbray Food Festival, which will be presented at a number of our Christmas events.

What’s your selection criteria? Provenance. There must be a strong back story to the product, with quality that sets it apart from products in the mass market. Price is less of an issue, as long as there’s something a bit special about the range.

Single Variety Co. is a notable case that does precisely that. It doesn’t just make generic jam. The pureness of flavour and attention given to buying the right ingredient for every jam makes them stand out. For instance, it produced an Alphonso Mango jam as a very limited edition in late spring. Anyone who knows anything about mangoes knows Alphonso mangoes are quite different to the widely available green variety, with a richness of flavour that is glorious.

The ingredients are more expensive - and hence the jam is more expensive. But because we were able to enthuse our customers about the strictly limited availability there was no resistance at all to the higher price. This has ensured subsequent limited editions have been well received and taken up with glee. FOMO at its best! This really encourages customers to buy when they can, while our constantly evolving range keeps it fresh and interesting for people.

There either has to be the opportunity to offer tastings (with support from suppliers) or have flavours that instantly tempt the taste buds: rum and salted caramel hot chocolate from Pendragon Drinks, for example.

What are your new arrivals?

We introduced Driver’s pickles a few weeks ago

and already the onions are best sellers. Who knew people would buy pickled onions as a gift? Well, I did to be fair, but it’s not an immediately obvious choice and that’s my point: it creates an opportunity to buy a treat for someone.

Our first Christmas order presented in early September was Hawkshead’s unbeatable Christmas preserves and sets. The Couture preserves and gift sets are in gorgeous straight-to-table glass jars, making them a sensational gift or a welcome addition for Christmas entertaining.

“

Pendragon Drinks’ hot chocolate arrived in midSeptember, tying in with the annual excitement of the PSL [Pumpkin Spice Latte] with autumnal flavours such as Pumpkin Spice, and Cinnamon and Gingerbread as we get closer to Christmas.

What are you most excited about stocking for the coming season?

Stunning Italian products from Tenuta Marmorelle. We can’t wait to present their luxury panettone and other Italian delights, that we know our clients will love, at shopping events from November onwards. Mulled wine spice bags from Smoked Bishop, rum cake from Harrison & Griffiths, and traditional Yorkshire bakes from Lottie Shaw’s are just some of the other lines.

How do you get the word out there?

We have a website which serves as a contact page and overview. I post on Facebook and Instagram regularly through the week and we have a Pinterest page just to show what we do. Our LinkedIn page is about to launch, which is useful for venues who want us to set up events so they can keep in touch with our news and see in more detail what we are all about.

What next for your products?

We’re looking at getting a licence to sell alcohol, and running a ‘Gin Club’ aimed at the retirement villages. There are certain categories we’re not able to offer in corporate environments, but we’re confident there is a strong opportunity to sell premium spirits

” We sell a crazy amount of cheese and all our preserve ranges have a devout following

to people with discriminating palates who enjoy a tipple!

What’s next for Gifts with Presence?

The goal is to develop territories so we can offer events around the country, and the expansion of the team will be an important part of that. Hampers - for consumers as well as corporate gifts - are also on my hit list.

What do you like most, and least, about your job?

I’ve always loved being a buyer but the dynamic of running events is exhilarating. Sentiment aside, it’s a genuine joy and privilege to work with my business partner John Hayden who has been a colleague and friend for more than 30 years. He describes our commercial partnership as: “I make the bullets, and he fires them.”

I like least having had to learn bookkeeping. Thank goodness for FreeAgent (software that comes with our business bank account), that’s all I can say. Getting my head wrapped around the ridiculous application of VAT irks me daily but as long as cake is 0 VAT I won’t complain too loudly!

What’s your biggest trading challenge?

Space is our only real issue as there is only so much area made available at venues, and we want to stock everything. As was always drummed into

Drop Chilli Jam which has a

citrusy

“ ” We will be prospecting new venues throughout 2025, so the challenge will be to keep a stream of exciting new lines that fit our criteria for provenance, quality, and the ability to create emotional engagement with a product

me while a buyer at [department store group] Owen Owen, working with its marvellous giftware buyer (now a sourcing specialist) Julie Goucher, the mantra is ‘Focus Julie Focus’!

We will be prospecting new venues throughout 2025, so the challenge will be to keep a stream of exciting new lines that ﬁt our criteria for provenance, quality, and the ability to create emotional engagement with a product.

Any advice for retailers considering stocking gift food?

Don’t be frightened of it. You do have to register as a food business but the Food Standards Agency and local authorities who deal with this are so helpful, and it’s nothing like as intimidating as it might appear. There is basic hygiene and allergens training, which is worth doing. It’s not mandatory but we found it gave us confidence. We obtained our certification after courses online that took about 20 minutes and we didn’t need to do anything significantly di erent from meeting the same standards as you would in a domestic kitchen.

For gift retailers, sticking with ambient foods means you’re looking at a long shelf life. And as long as you present them in a dynamic way, there shouldn’t ever be a problem with wastage.

What are the pros and cons?

Margin. It can be a big shock to gift buyers when you see the low margin yield on many food products. But the reality is the volume is likely to be so much greater that it makes it worthwhile, and cash ﬂow is extremely healthy.

Our model is particularly e ective as every customer gets to taste all the products, and we have virtually a 100% conversion rate when people get to try. (Did I mention cheese?!). We regularly sell weekly all the stock from one order before having to pay the invoice - which is nirvana for those seeking fast R.O.S.T. [Rate of Stock Turn].

Another pro is the feel-good moment of chatting to people who are really interested, as we all love food, don’t we?

What would you suggest as a good ‘starter pack’?

If you’re aiming to stock gift food, the temptation is to just stick to the pretty tins and items with shelf appeal. But if you can embrace the additional opportunity of allowing people to taste a range of preserves, for example, you create excitement and your shop becomes even more appealing. A question worth asking is: fundamentally, what is a gift?

Preserves are deﬁnitely a good place to start. All

my suppliers have terriﬁc gift sets, which can be a great backdrop to a tight range of loose options. Tastings are simple to do and yield amazing results.

Perhaps you stock cheese boards, knives, and tableware? Snowdonia’s truckles sell so fast when sampled, so this can be a really engaging introduction. In my previous gift buying role, we invested in a small countertop fridge to keep products at the correct temperature and from which customers could self-serve; it paid for itself in two months.

Chocolate will always be a winner of course, and The Gourmet Chocolate Pizza Company has a fabulous range - not just of chocolate pizzas but seasonal novelty lines too. It’s a complete story, so you don’t need a full range of brands as they stand alone well.

Plus, there will always be local honey suppliers near any retailer anywhere in the country, so that can be o ered with honey jars, bee textiles and even honey-based toiletries… The possibilities are inﬁnite.

In essence, any food item can be a terriﬁc gift option when it’s imaginatively displayed, backed by interactive tastings - and selected from suppliers who are passionate about their products and keen to o er support.

The gift industry is dynamic, creative and o ers such appealing products. Gift food is diverse, exciting, and provides endless opportunities to entice consumers. Go on, give it a go!

Easter feast

Lesser & Pavey

Lesser & Pavey is continuing the success of its Christmas food gift range with Easter in mind. Developed by the company’s in-house design team, this new range includes an Easter Bunny ceramic bowl with Easter biscuits, marshmallows and jellybeans; an Easter Bunny quality mug with hot chocolate bomb; a charming Easter Bunny egg cup with a chocolate egg, and a delightful Easter Bunny treats dish.

The full range is very attractive to the eye, excellent quality, and o ered at a good price point.

Call: 01322 279225

Email: sales@leonardo.co.uk

Visit: www.leonardo.co.uk

Chocolatta love

Joypots

The Joybox range from Joypots of chocolate coated fruits, nuts, fudge and honeycomb is packaged in a stylishly designed gift box, making it an attractively priced gift to suit all tastes and ages.

Joypots’ mission is to bring joy through its range of confectionery and savoury snacks. O ering a splendid choice of mouthwatering ﬂavours, they are perfect for gifting, sharing or self-indulging!

Call: 020 3935 7350 | Email: joy@joypots.com

Visit: www.joypots.com

Sweet treats Personalised Memento Company

Personalised Memento Company (PMC) has been busy creating a range of brand-new designs for Christmas 2024, including a fun new Gonk range!

Great as a Christmas Eve treat or stocking ﬁller, this Personalised Gonk Christmas Sweet Jar makes a delicious addition to your Christmas gifting this year. Filled to the top with beloved favourites from lollipops to chews, it’s sure to be a hit with anyone that has a sweet tooth. 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

Bold ﬂavours

Spice Kitchen

Spice Kitchen is a multi-award-winning family-owned spice company founded in 2012 by mother and son duo Shashi and Sanjay Aggarwal. Its expertise blends Shashi’s deep knowledge of spices and Indian masalas, with Sanjay’s passion for global ﬂavours.

Renowned for ethically sourced, super-fresh spices, Spice Kitchen creates blends in small batches in the UK. Its signature Spice Tins, wrapped in hand-sewn silk sari, make perfect gifts for food lovers.

Each tin celebrates a culinary theme, from Middle Eastern dishes to crafting the perfect G&T - and the Indian Spice Tin (its ﬁrst product) won the food & drink category of the Gift of the Year Awards 2022. The supplier also o ers trios of its most-loved blends, cookery hampers, and a selection of spiced hot chocolates and bars.

Call: 0151 245 1603

Email: soldwithlove@spicekitchenuk.com | Visit: www.spicekitchenuk.com

Joy in the melting Cocoba Chocolate

Artisan chocolatier Cocoba Chocolate o ers handmade Belgian chocolate bars, chocolate covered bites and tru es, hot chocolate spoons, ﬂakes, and hot chocolate bombes. The range also includes a vegan and dairy-free chocolate selection.

Chief chocoholic and founder Darren Litton says: “We are seeing an industry-wide trend for premium chocolate gifting options. Consumers are seeking out new ﬂavours and shaped items in particular, and our boozy chocolate bombes have been a ﬁrm customer favourite. We are innovating all the time and have introduced exciting colour changing bombes to the range.”

Email: naomi@cocobachocolate.com

Visit: www.CocobaChocolate.com

A festive blend

Cotswold Gold

Cotswold Gold’s Cotswold Whisky Butter - a collaboration with the Cotswolds Distillery using its signature Single Malt - was awarded a three-star rating at the Great Taste Awards 2024. It is now available in this Duo Gift Pack along with the company’s Brandy Butter for the festive season.

Charlie Beldam, founder of Cotswold Gold, describes the product as “a festive blend of sweetened butter paired with single malt whisky and a hint of sea salt. The wonderful whisky from the Cotswolds Distillery has hints of honey, red fruits and treacle, making this a truly wonderful pairing. We recommend it is served at room temperature and eaten with mince pies or Christmas pudding”.

Call: 01386 584748 | Email: sales@cotswoldgold.co.uk

Visit: www.cotswoldgold.co.uk

Indulge your senses

Enesco

Since its beginning, WoodWick has created multi-sensory experiences which add a personal, elegant ﬁnish to the home. WoodWick candles - with distinctive wooden wicks, sophisticated fragrances and premium designsprovide a unique experience to indulge your senses.

The patented wick designs create a beautiful even burn and evoke the soft sounds of a crackling ﬁre, while the trend-forward fragrances create an atmosphere which feels tailor-made. The WoodWick range provides little moments of luxury and o ers a chance to express style in every space.

Emerging trends have inspired the introduction of new seasonal scents, based on key trending ingredient notes such as night-blooming jasmine and dark cherry. New fragrances for A/W24 include the dark, sumptuous aroma of Phantom Cherry; and the alluring aroma of Hynoﬂora, with notes of nightblooming jasmine, pear and tonka bean.

Call: 01228 404022

Email: uksales@enesco.co.uk

Visit: www.enesco.co.uk

Nourish & ﬂourish

Scottish Fine Soaps

This festive season, Scottish Fine Soaps presents two skincare collections that are perfect for gifting: Spiced Apple and Winter Wishes. These limitededition ranges feature hand washes, lotions, creams, body washes and gift sets.

The Spiced Apple range o ers a warm, inviting fragrance with notes of home-baked apple pie and festive spices: perfect for evoking the cosy charm of the holidays. Winter Wishes, with its crisp blend of frosted ﬂorals and gourmand notes of seasonal spices, fruits and creamy vanilla, captures the serene beauty of winter.

Both collections feature nourishing ingredients that protect and soften hands during the colder months, making them a practical yet luxurious gift option. With attractive packaging and the renowned quality of Scottish Fine Soaps, these hand care products will stand out on your shelves, appealing to shoppers looking for premium, seasonal gifts.

Call: 01324 573402

Email: enquiries@scottishﬁnesoaps.com

Visit: www.scottishﬁnesoaps.com

Pretty pastels

Joe Davies

Sundae Shower Foam & Body Whip is a fun new body wash range which makes the perfect back-end gift, especially for a stocking ﬁller. Not only do the items look great - like cans of whippy cream in lovely pastel colours - but they smell amazing too.

Perfect for layering with your best fruity scent, you can choose from coconut, pomegranate ﬁzz, honey honey, watermelon and even birthday cake fragrances. The cans of shower foam leave you smelling wonderful and the body whip makes your skin silky smooth and soft. And they don’t just look and smell good, they are vegan and cruelty free too, so you can feel good about bodycare.

Call: 0161 975 6300

Email: sales@joedavies.co.uk

Visit: www.joedavies.co.uk

Focus on wellbeing

The Fragrance House

The Fragrant Life from The Fragrance House has launched a new natural ﬂower di user, o ering consumers the chance to make bespoke displays in their homes with its ‘Have it Your Way’ concept, with wellbeing at its core.

This concept allows consumers to personalise di users with an array of natural dried ﬂowers. The selection of colours and ﬂowers in each pack is carefully chosen to match the fragrance, o ering a visually and aromatically harmonious experience - gentle on both the senses and the planet.

Crafted with sustainability in mind, each of the nine fragrance blends uses only the ﬁnest natural and organic compounds, ethically and sustainably sourced. In addition to the eco-conscious ingredients, the di users come in packaging with Rorschach ink designs, chosen to incorporate principles of colour therapy to uplift, soothe, and relax - plus a bookmark with mindfulness techniques. The Fragrant Life is more than just a gift or fragrance choice for the home; it’s a mindful experience designed to care for your wellbeing.

Call: 01727 836454

Email: enquiries@t ltd.co.uk

Visit: www.t ltd.co.uk

Festive feels Best Kept Secrets

Best Kept Secrets has introduced the new Red Collection alongside an expanded Just Because Collection, o ering retailers a versatile and a ordable product range.

The Red Collection includes wax melt cards, candles, and di users, all designed with festive fragrances to create a warm, inviting atmosphere for Christmas. These products are crafted with quality in mind, providing consumers with a high-end experience at an accessible price point.

The expanded Just Because Collection includes more fragrance options with scented candles, tea lights, and wax melt cards. Each product comes with fun or meaningful messaging, o ering an ideal gift for various occasions. The wax melt cards, in particular, are a popular, budget-friendly option for customers.

Call: 01670 512222

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

Diary of a gift shop

Cathy Frost, owner of Loveone gift shop in Ipswich, reflects on the biannual gift season changeover and gets ready to channel the popular hygge trend

Nothing quite sums up autumn like a scent: it’s a very olfactory season. For me, certain smells take me back to childhood and schooldays: damp misty mornings, the hint of wood smoke in the air, sweet fallen fruit… Aromas play an important role in creating ambience and evoking nostalgia - and for many of us, we will be investing lots of money in this important sector of our industry for this A/W.

Hygge is a Danish word that encapsulates many qualities about the start of autumn and winter. In essence, it means creating a warm atmosphere and experience, and a feeling of home, being cosy, and being together.

For the past few years this ‘feeling’ has been my starting point for creating the right ambience in-store, especially as we approach autumn. If I open the door every morning, do I feel ‘hygge’? Does it evoke a sense of wanting to be here? Is it inviting? And will it evoke a similar reaction from customers?

Buying scented products has certainly changed over the years since I’ve been on the high street. There are now a multitude of brands to choose from and different forms of home fragrance, from diffusers and melts to candles. In fact, there’s such an abundance of choice that after some trade shows, my nasal receptors check out!

So, it’s important to do your homework - and maybe not attempt to sniff them all. Find a brand (or brands) which resonates with you. It could be the visual merchandising, the packaging, the sustainability, the ethics, the price - not just the scent.

In my store, we stock four ranges which are all British. We have stocked Plum & Ashby products for a few years and as a range this has been one of our best sellers. The candles and diffusers are complemented by hand creams and bath products.

This autumn sees the release of a new seasonal fragrance from the brand: Smoky Birch & Oak. This is described as ‘a scent of forest shade and smoke-filled corners’. A blend of crushed smoked spices and amber, combined with the warmth of cedar, oak, and birch, with a base of vetiver and leather - so, hygge in a box.

Another popular range for us is FieldDay. All of its candles are hand poured in small batches at FieldDay HQ in County Down, and

a percentage of sales helps to support Ulster Wildlife: a local charity which helps to conserve Irish wildlife and habitats under threat.

Each of FieldDay’s Folk candles is topped with a wildflower seed paper lid that can be soaked and planted. Our autumn favourites are the Belong Folk Tin Candle, which has fragrant earthy field notes of flowering gorse and honey, and the Gather Folk Tin Candle, which offers fragrant field notes of smoky firesides and leather.

I discovered this beautiful range at Belfast Airport on my way back from a trip. It was the smell of violets that drew me in; the scent reminded me of my grandmother, and Parma Violets sweetsanother childhood memory.

I’ve recently brought St. Eval candles back onto the shelves: this was one of the first ranges I ever sold. I canvassed opinions from customers on which candles they would like in-store, and St. Eval was by far one of the most popular choices.

During the summer we loved the Coastal range with its beautiful navy and grey ombre ceramic pots (which can be reused as a planter, vase or pen pot). They really evoke the Cornish coasts where they are made. As we head into the new season, our offer will also include favourites like Sandalwood, Bay & Rosemary and Winter Thyme.

I’m always keen to support local producers and we currently have Wildlight Candles, a small but beautifully made range, from a supplier based on the outskirts of Ipswich. Its Dark Amber and Sloe Berry scents evoke the ripened fruit and richness of the season.

In the words of Meik Wiking, CEO of the Happiness Research Institute based in Copenhagen and author of the bestselling guide ‘The Little book of Hygge’: “While hygge can be an intangible and abstract concept, I do believe that we can use all our senses to detect it. Hygge has a taste, a sound, a smell and a texture - and, hopefully, you will start to see hygge all around.”

So, as I switch seasons and reflect on what’s in store, there will be blankets, socks, knitwear, chocolate and candles. The smell, taste, and texture to evoke hygge is all covered. The sound may prove slightly more problematic as I don’t have an open fire, so the crackle of a single candle will have to suffice!

Let’s enjoy autumn and channel the hygge at work and at homewhere do your favourite scents take you?

Bliss Gifts comes of age

Clare Turner catches up with Nicola Reading, owner/manager of Bliss Gifts - an independent gift retailer set in the heart of the market town of Darlington in County Durham - which is celebrating 21 years of trading

Why did you decide you wanted to be a gift retailer?

I began working in gift retail in 2003, after originally setting up a wedding list consultancy service in 1999. I quickly discovered I had an eye for giftware, so although my original o ering was home style products, the demand from customers for all sorts of gift items meant that I quickly adapted to suit demand.

How would you describe your range?

Our range is certainly a mix of price points and products. We try very hard to o er everything from beautiful greeting cards and stationery, women’s accessories, jewellery, and home fragrance, to oodles of baby and children’s gifts and traditional toys.

Based on our initial foray into the wedding market, we also o er contemporary home style gifts such as frames, glassware and dining accessories.

We order regularly with East Of India (one of our best sellers), Jellycat, Joma Jewellery, Katie Loxton, Envy Jewellery, PoM, Tutti & Co, Sass & Belle, Mary Meyer, David Jones, Caroline Gardner, and Artebene. I do attend trade fairs but usually only two per year. I love the London shows but much prefer to use our local Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival in Harrogate. I try to keep up with the trade press when I can, but hours of trawling through the internet and some of the trade portals like Faire are a must.

I love emerging brands and try to support brands which are local to us where I can. British brands are always a priority, but I’m also realistic about cost and appeal for our loyal customers.

I’m a contemporary girl at heart and love clever use of colour and patternhence my love for all things Caroline Gardner. But I’m certainly not adverse to the nude pink and grey palette that has been with us for so long now.

I also can’t get enough classic and simple designs from our bestselling train cosmetic cases supplied by The London Train Case Company (from Alice Wheeler London) and sleepwear by Pretty You London: a hot favourite for comfort and luxury.

How has trading been for you?

Trading is actually exceeding expectations for 2024. We’ve seen increased footfall, mainly due to a street revamp and the end to what seemed endless disruption through planned roadworks.

Darlington as a town centre is still very robust in my eyes, and we have a strong events management team at the council, so there are plenty of events to attract visitors. Sadly some stores have not fared so well and I guess we have beneﬁtted from the lack of competition. I’d like to say that we also o er an exciting and widely varied range of products to entice customers into our store.

A/W24 is looking good at present and although I’d love a crystal ball to conﬁrm, current consumer spending means we are hoping to exceed our sales target.

We’ve brought in some new brands for autumn

and expanded our ladies’ clothing and accessories ranges, as they were very strong last year. So, new brands such as Park Lane and Chalk for quality winter attire, plus our old faves PoM.

How are you preparing for the Christmas season?

We usually have a winter promotion in-store to encourage folk to start their shopping early. This involves speciﬁc discounts based on customer spend, and late-night opening during December. A tipple and chocolates always go down well with our regulars to add some festive cheer!

Driving the final quarter

Retail100 Consulting director and cofounder Neil Amer discusses navigating trends, sell-throughs, and bestsellers in Q4

As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisper, we find ourselves hurtling towards the grand final - the fourth quarter of the retail year.

The groundwork has been laid during the planning phase, but now it’s time to execute with precision, ride the trends, optimise sell-throughs, and strategically buy back into our bestsellers. Buckle up: this is where the magic happens.

The last quarter is all about the execution. Executional excellence isn’t about ticking boxes or doing what you did last year. It’s about finding new and exciting ways to display your products.

Take your customer on a journey. Highlight the seasonal ‘must-haves’, make a big deal of brands’ stories, and create an irresistible path for your shoppers. And keep a hawk’s eye on stock levels - no one wants empty shelves or excess baggage!

And, no matter what size of retailer you are, let’s celebrate the frontline team members. They are, after all, the bridge between products and customers. They are the heartbeat of our retail experience.

Trends come and go, so make sure you know what is on trend and what resonates with your customers. Of course, you’ll need the trendy lines, but trends span more than just product - they can influence displays and lifestyles.

Invite people to touch, feel and embrace product in a physical environment; something they cannot do online. Sustainability isn’t

just a trend or a buzzword, it’s a movement. Share the stories behind these sustainable choices. Let your customers know that their purchase isn’t just about acquiring an item - it’s about contributing to a better world.

Now you’ve nailed the product, look and feel, we need to bring in some science. The magic can’t happen without sell-through strategies.

“Buckle up: this is where the magic happens”

Data-driven decisions are our compass. Analyse sell-through rates by category, SKU, and location. What’s flying off the shelves? What’s gathering dust? Promotions aren’t just about clearing stock. Use them strategically to boost sell-throughs on targeted items.

Bundle complementary products, offer limited-time discounts, and create urgency. And don’t forget cross-selling: pair that candle with a diffuser, pair the alcohol with glassware, and pair that luxury hot chocolate with a mug. Cross-category suggestions not only drive sales but also enhance the customer experience.

Know your bestsellers - they’re not one-hit wonders, they’re perennial favourites. Replenish wisely; don’t miss out on sales due to stockouts. Monitor inventory levels closely, and if a bestseller is gaining momentum, consider buying additional stock. And nostalgia wins: some classics never fade. Bring back the hits, tweaked for today’s tastes.

This laser focus on Q4 will not only drive sell-throughs and profit, but also customer satisfaction as they will have what they want, when they want it, and at the right price.

If you play in the seasonal space,

Neil Amer 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. Coming from a retail background, Neil worked as a merchandiser for John Lewis for 17 years, gaining extensive experience in the retail industry.

Email: hello@retail100consulting.co.uk

Visit: www.retail100consulting.co.uk

www.linkedin.com/company/retail100-consulting

why not launch Valentine’s products pre-Christmas? A lot of red hearts sell over the festive period too and you’ll get a head start on your sell-throughs.

But we are also clearing the decks for S/S25. There is so much going on in Q4 that it’s easy not to think about what comes next. What will S/S25 look like? When do you launch new product?

When Christmas and New Year is over, winter products will still sell, so be mindful of what you are reducing to clear. New Year, New You? How can you tap into this trend and inspire your customers, specially when footfall is still high during the Sale period?

Q4 in retail can feel hard going and never-ending but it should be exhilarating, and it’s about thriving. Execute well, surprise your customers, make data-driven decisions, don’t forget about S/S25 and you’ll come out the other side in one piece. Most of all, have fun!

The Retail100 team L-R: Sara Allbright, Anna Berry, Neil Amer and Elaine Hooper

Red alert

Namaste

Namaste’s latest collection of recycled sari products includes a handcrafted Red Heart wreath, which is ideal for Valentine’s Day and a charming gift for any time of year. Made from a blend of red o cuts with a textured ﬁnish, this eco-friendly wreath adds a warm, homely touch to any space.

Featuring a recycled hanging loop for easy display, it’s both stylish and sustainable. Each piece, crafted from richly coloured recycled sari materials, is uniquely beautiful. The Red Heart wreath from Namaste is perfect for those who appreciate both elegance and eco-consciousness.

Call: 01756 700790

Email: sales@namaste-uk.com

Visit: namaste-uk.com

Best bar none

Joypots

Spread the love this Valentine’s Day with Joypots’ ‘Love You’ Milk Chocolate bar. Hearts are sure to melt after one bite of this delicious smooth and creamy milk chocolate, presented in a stylishly designed gift box.

Made from single origin 41% Colombian milk chocolate, this is the perfect token gift for your loved one - and is just one of the bars from the company’s popular new Message Bar range.

Call: 020 3935 7350

Email: joy@joypots.com

Visit: www.joypots.com

Celebrate love

Best Kept Secrets

For Valentine’s Day, Best Kept Secrets o ers the perfect way to celebrate love with its beautifully handcrafted home fragrance products. The brand’s bespoke Three Lites Boxes allow customers to add personal messages to each box, making every gift truly unique. Featuring three of Best Kept Secrets’ bestselling scents, these vibrant, recyclable vessels bring a touch of luxury without breaking the bank.

Vanessa Curry, managing director of Best Kept Secrets, says: “Our Valentine’s range is all about creating thoughtful, personal gifts that express love in a meaningful way. The bespoke Three Lites Boxes are a wonderful way to say ‘I love you’ with a personal touch.”

Alongside the Three Lites Boxes, the Just Because Collection o ers an array of scented candles, tea lights, and gift boxes, each designed to spread joy with their signature sparkle and award-winning fragrances. Show your love this Valentine’s Day with Best Kept Secrets’ heartfelt and a ordable gifts.

Call: 01670 512222

Email: sales@bestkeptsecrets.co.uk

Visit: www.bestkeptsecrets.co.uk

Adorable token

Personalised Memento Company

Share the love this Valentine’s Day with Personalised Memento Company’s range of adorable Me To You gifts. With a large selection of designs across a variety of products, including photo upload products, there is sure to be the ideal gift for your Valentine. Each item in the range can be personalised, creating a gift as unique as your special someone. There has never been a better time to sell personalised gifts, so get in touch with PMC to get started!

Email: sales@personalisedmemento.co.uk

Visit: www.personalisedmemento.co.uk

Hold dear

Glick

For 2025, Glick has curated a Gift Bag range to celebrate all things love and romance for Valentine’s Day.

Paper Salad’s Love Hearts design epitomises all that is Valentine’s Day with a cacophony of pink and gold foil hearts, pink ribbon, and a contrasting gold foil tag.

The love heart theme continues with Glick’s pawfectly perfect ‘Sausage Dog Balloons’ design from award-winning designer Stephanie Davies. These luxury bags portray the cutest dachshund puppy chasing love heart-shaped balloons as the main design, whilst the side of the bag has an eye-catching cascade of love hearts.

Finally, the ever exquisite and best-selling designer Stephanie Dyment’s ‘Love Roses’ design depicts a cascade of red and white roses against a deeply coloured and romantic backdrop.

Call: 01274 655980

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

Visit: https://trade.glick.co.uk/

Coming up roses

Joe Davies

What could be more romantic on Valentine’s Day than a red rose, especially one that you can keep and cherish forever? Joe Davies has the perfect gift for this special day: a Radiant Rose that will bloom eternally, presented in a glass dome with pretty LED lights entwined around the ﬂower.

This charming keepsake will look great as a table centrepiece for that romantic Valentine’s meal. There are also other colours, such as pink, purple and clear iridescent. They come in small, large and a special three-rose version with three roses displayed together inside the dome.

Call: 0161 975 6300

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

Romantic bouquet

Lesser & Pavey

Lesser & Pavey’s Desire Aroma ranges have got Valentine’s Day sorted for you with Bouquet Flower reed di users.

This new addition to the range includes fragrances Rose & Bergamot, Peony & Blush Suede, Hydrangea & Blush, Velvet Rose & Oud, Hydrangea & Lavender, and Peony & Freesia.

Flowers, fragrance, attractive packaging and quality all add up to a very special gift to the one you love, that lasts much longer than chocolates or champagne.

Call: 01322 279225

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

Take heart

Miss Milly

An undeniable expression of love, hearts are the epitome of Valentine’s Day giftsand Miss Milly has a great selection of heart jewellery in traditional reds and pinks as well as more unusual colours, which for Spring 2025 include aqua, coral and yellow.

Pick from a range of bold or delicate pendants in either colourful resin with di erent ﬁnishes (from foil to iridescence) or hand-painted pieces, add the matching earrings, and display in branded boxes to create the perfect ‘pick up and go’ gift set. And why not increase the transaction value with a co-ordinating scarf, such as one of Miss Milly’s bright fuchsia pink, sparkling glitter or sequin designs?

These products are also suitable for Galentine’s Day: an increasingly popular occasion on February 13, when girls buy gifts for their closest friends. Originally created to celebrate singledom, Galentine’s has now evolved into a more general celebration of friendship.

Miss Milly’s add-ons are perfect for this, such as its heart compact mirrors, magnetic brooches, or enamelled animal and bird keyrings and bag charms, from cats and dogs to cows and mice.

Call: 01905 622509

Email: hello@missmilly.co.uk | Visit: www.missmilly.co.uk

Trade talk

Clare Turner quizzes leading suppliers on their predictions for hot trends in Christmas gifts, and their recommendations of wish list winners

Vanessa Curry Managing Director Best Kept Secrets

What do you predict will be the trending Christmas gifts for 2024?

I believe we will see a strong demand for personalised, thoughtful gifts that are budget-friendly. Consumers are increasingly conscious of purchasing with purpose, and they want to give gifts that align with those values and say something special.

Our Just Because collection reflects this trend with hand-poured candles in recyclable vessels, biodegradable sparkles, and personalised, meaningful message-laden packaging. Gifts that evoke joy but also show care for the environment, while not costing the earth, will be high on wish lists this year.

“Consumers are increasingly conscious of purchasing with purpose”

If retailers had room for only one product or range from your offering, what would you suggest?

I would recommend our Three Lites Boxes. These have been incredibly popular, not only because they feature our bestselling scents, but also because they offer the personalisation element that is in such high demand.

Customers love being able to add their own messages, making these gifts truly unique. It’s a range that offers the perfect combination of affordability, quality, and a personal touch, which is why it’s an ideal choice for any retailer.

Aylish Ellwood Trade Marketing Manager Enesco

What do you predict will be the trending Christmas gifts for 2024?

Home comfort products. The home fragrance category is a real growth area as fragrances and formats become more creative and exciting, allowing consumers to give each room or area its own personality.

The wellness and self-care trend which emerged a few years ago is also very much here to stay. A great example is our Chesapeake Bay collection. Consumers are looking for thoughtful gifts which ooze quality and represent great value for money.

“The wellness and self-care trend is very much here to stay”

If retailers had room for only one product or range from your offering, what would you suggest?

Most certainly be part of our nationwide Yankee Candle Christmas campaign: “Make it More Magical.” We are working in partnership with Newell Brands to connect with consumers to cement a lasting emotional bond by reinforcing positive brand associations. The campaign will be live through TV advertising, social media channels, influencers, Out of Home (OOH) advertising and the press. Our stockists - both existing and new - will be offered enticing in-store point of sale material and tumbler candles free of charge with certain packs, to really engage and so convert the consumer. Christmas 2024 is a very exciting time to jump on board with us and Yankee Candle.

Paul Hooker Managing Director

Joe Davies

What do you predict will be the trending Christmas gifts for 2024?

Fashion gifts are trending strongly, with boxed hats, gloves and scarves among our strongest performers so far, and the packaging really adds that extra touch of value. Customers are looking for quality gifts at affordable prices, and perennial favourites such as snoozies!, Sock Society and Nuzzles are all in demand. Gifts featuring countryside themes and mushrooms in particular are very strong.

If retailers had room for only one product or range from your offering, what would you suggest?

With over 10,000 products across so many brands and product categories that’s such a tough question to answer! Our hottest line at the moment is Village Pottery. It’s selling and repeating strongly, and with lots of development in the pipeline for next year, demand is going to be very high for some time to come.

“Our hottest line at the moment is Village Pottery”

Evan

Lewis Founder & CEO

VENT for Change

What do you predict will be the trending Christmas gifts for 2024?

Good quality, well designed and affordable sustainable products are surely a strong favourite.

If retailers had room for only one product or range from your offering, what would you suggest?

Our new LUXURY Collection made from recycled leather and sustainable paper is designed specifically to appeal to the Christmas market. In just two colours it’s not too much to stock, but will sit beautifully in-store.

Neil Coxon Managing Director FROM YOU

TO ME

What do you predict will be the trending Christmas gifts for 2024?

The majority of people have been careful with how they spend their hard-earned money throughout 2024, and yet gifting has remained part of the ’essential’ shopping list. Births, birthdays, weddings, and Christmas still drive people to want to celebrate and recognise these important occasions - but our experience has shown people are taking more care with their gift choices.

As the value of experiences and memories becomes more important than material possessions, there has been a shift towards thoughtful, heartfelt gifting with a growing desire for authenticity and connection.

In our fast-paced, digital world, consumers have been drawn to meaningful gifts that evoke emotion, tell a story, create lasting memories, and strengthen relationships. Whether it’s a personalised item or a gift that encourages shared moments, meaningful presents will undoubtedly resonate with shoppers in a season rooted in love and togetherness.

If retailers had room for only one product or range from your offering, what would you suggest?

Our meaningful gifts all tell a story so, without a doubt, top of the list for Christmas gifts for all the family and close friends would be our award-winning range of Journals of a Lifetime. These Memory Journals help people to capture stories, memories and aspirations from their lives. They retail for only £18 and yet customers, when they wipe the emotional tears from their faces, tell us they are priceless.

Stephen Thurlow Director Alexander Thurlow

What do you predict will be the trending Christmas gifts for 2024?

We feel that sustainability will continue to be a driving force behind Christmas gifting this year: gifts that will last, have heartfelt meaning, and come from companies with the environmental impact at their heart.

If retailers had room for only one product or range from your offering, what would you suggest?

It would deﬁnitely be our single drop gold tone Bluebell drop earrings. New at the beginning of the year, these delicate dangly earrings are a lovely nod to nature, have a timeless feel, and make you feel fabulous when wearing them (so I’ve been told!).

Sarah Watmore Owner Miss Milly

What do you predict will be the trending Christmas gifts for 2024?

Deﬁnitely budget-friendly. It’s been a tough year all round, but I also believe people are really thinking about the recipient more and trying to buy gifts that mean something to them, or have a shared memory or sentiment attached.

So they want to give somebody one of our magnetic brooches (and that would be a very good choice) but they’ll pick one that has meaning attached to it so, the recipient’s favourite animal, or a leaf because they know autumn is their favourite season.

If retailers had room for only one product or range from your offering, what would you suggest?

The resin jewellery. Once it’s in with a retailer it rarely comes out. Consumers love it for its beautiful colours, a ordable pricing and lasting design.

Kerry Bilson Co-owner and Founder Letterbox Love

If retailers had room for only one product or range from your offering, what would you suggest?

For those looking for last-minute Christmas stocking ﬁller items, our Christmas stand is a must, containing the perfect Secret Santa gifts and sparkly bracelets under the £10 price point.

Lucy Clarkson Business Development Manager Tales & Treats

What do you predict will be the trending Christmas gifts for 2024?

Several trends are likely set to take centre stage. Firstly, sustainability-focused: shoppers are increasingly seeking out ecofriendly options, looking for gifts that are built to last and have a low environmental impact.

“Personalised and characterful items will be in high demand”

Timeless, well-crafted items - such as our hand-decorated ornaments and sustainable candles - are becoming more popular, with a focus on quality over quantity. Secondly, budget-friendly and thoughtful: as people continue to look for a ordable yet meaningful gifts, personalised and characterful items will be in high demand. Our unique dogthemed products are a great example of this trend and at just £12.50 for the candles and £10 for the baubles they are an obvious choice for savvy shoppers!

Thirdly, self-care: gifts that promote comfort and relaxation will resonate with many, with the increased popularity and interest in wellness. Scented candles and home decor are ideal options for creating cosy, calming spaces. Our beautifully fragranced, hand-poured candles with seasonal designs o er a perfect balance of style and self-care, tapping into this growing market.

If retailers had room for only one product or range from your offering, what would you suggest?

Most deﬁnitely The Twelve Dogs of Christmas candlewhat’s not to love? Featuring 12 of the UK’s most beloved dog breeds and a playful twist on the classic “Twelve Days of Christmas” song (“Five Golden Retrievers...!”), this candle is full of fun and sure to evoke a smile.

Hand-poured in Britain, it’s made with premium vegan, cruelty-free wax and blended with essential oils, making it 100% natural. At just £12.50, this fun and festive candle is the perfect combination of quality, sustainability and humour, making it an ideal gift or a treat for yourself.

Mushroom magic

Joe Davies

Vases and planters are a perfect way to add style and personality to any space and the rustic, handcrafted look is constantly evolving. Pairing this aesthetic with the trend for mushrooms, Joe Davies has created the Mushroom Craft Pottery Collection: a delightful range of vases and planters that blend natural charm with modern design.

Available in attractive earthy tones with a textured, handcrafted finish, the collection includes an array of shapes and sizes, from pretty ball vases and planters to mini mushroom cluster stem vases. Whether you’re looking to refresh your home décor or add a contemporary touch, this collection is sure to impress.

Call: 0161 975 6300

Email: sales@joedavies.co.uk

Visit: www.joedavies.co.uk

Best foot forward

Primeur

With sales exceeding six million units annually and 55 years of heritage in the market, Primeur’s doormat story is well established - but now it’s time to make gift shops part of its next chapter.

With winter on the horizon, there has never been a better time to view the Mighty Mats offering. From core doormats including washable and ‘barrier’ designs, to the designer Rubber and Coir collection, plus boot trays, the Scrape N Sorb brand, all-new sustainable solutions and an exciting, licenced collection that opens up new gifting opportunities, there is a Mighty Mats for every home and gift retailer.

Call: 01274 518800

Email: sales@primeur.ltd.uk

Visit: www.primeur.co.uk

Colour & creativity Namaste

Namaste is elevating party decorating with its new selection of multicoloured recycled sari garlands, bunting and wreaths. Perfect for decorating your space for birthdays, weddings, and celebrations year-round, these pieces can be used in multiple ways to decorate your home.

Swag across windows and doorways, as centrepieces of tablescapes, or anywhere that needs a touch of fun. With ontrend mushrooms and snail garlands, and the multicoloured nature of the recycled saris, these pieces will be a talking point at any event.

Call: 01756 700790

Email: sales@namaste-uk.com

Visit: namaste-uk.com

In loving memory Personalised Memento Company

Robins are a lovely reminder of a special loved one, and this stylish Personalised Robin Memorial Concrete Plant Pot from the Personalised Memento Company (PMC) is the perfect gift that can be used all year round. Inscribed with the words ‘Robins appear when loved ones are near’, it is part of PMC’s popular Robin range.

Get in touch with PMC today for more information and register to see the full range.

Email: sales@personalisedmemento.co.uk

Visit: www.personalisedmemento.co.uk

Timeless appeal

The Design Choice

The Nomon Atomo clock is a striking table clock that blends mid-century charm with modern sensibilities. This bold, Spanish table clock features a light yet refined walnut wood structure, complemented by elegant hands. The dial comes in polished brass, adding a contemporary touch to its timeless design. Nomon is known for producing pieces that exude exclusive character, with meticulous attention to detail and exquisite precision. It’s the perfect addition to any contemporary space.

Call: 02080506618

Email: info@thedesignchoice.com

Visit: www.thedesignchoice.com

A touch of luxury

VENT for Change

The sustainable stationery supplier VENT for Change has launched its new LUXURY Collection in time for the Christmas rush.

Made in Italy from recycled leather and 100% certiﬁed sustainable paper, this range of A4 document/tablet wallets, A5 and A6 notebooks and folios are available in two stunning fashion colours: powder pink and emerald green.

The company says: “Beautiful product design combined with great quality and a very fair price point, we have enjoyed fabulous pre-orders and expect the range to sell through very successfully for our ever increasing network of gift retailers. The collection’s RRPs range from £9.99 to £29.99 and are available to order now.”

Call: 07395 284788 | Email: lucy@ventforchange.co.uk

Visit: www.ventforchange.co.uk

Take note

Town & Country

Town & Country has unveiled the launch of the Dragonﬂy Collection. This range o ers a curated selection of best-selling garden essentials, interwoven with complementary gifting lines, including new stationery items.

The Journal is an A5 notebook, perfect for everyday use. With 160 lined sheets, a ribbon page marker and a durable hard cover, it’s an elegant and practical addition.

There is also a 52-sheet Everyday & Gardening Planner with tear-o to-do lists. Its hangable clipboard design makes it perfect to store in sheds, greenhouses or around the home.

The Dragonfly Ballpoint Pen is the perfect finishing touch to the Collection. This black ballpoint rollerball pen, ideal for everyday use, is displayed in a dragonfly-themed presentation box.

Call: 01869 363674

Email: customerservices@barrus.co.uk

Visit: www.townandco.com

Good vibes

Personalised Memento Company

What better gift to give, than a whole year of positive vibes? This Personalised Motivational Quotes Desk Calendar is both functional and stylish, making a wonderful gift for a friend or even for yourself.

Each month features a fun and bright positive quote to provide a mood boost day after day.

Choose the start date from any month, and add a name to feature within the monthly designs to make a cool desk accessory.

With a growing range of on-trend giftware and selling solutions to suit all retailers, there has never been a better time to sell personalised gifts.

Email: sales@personalisedmemento.co.uk

Visit: www.personalisedmemento.co.uk

Pawsome plans

FROM YOU TO ME

FROM YOU TO ME is busy launching its latest range of high-quality, meaningful gifts which includes a ‘Perpetual Planner’ range for dog and cat lovers.

The highly versatile undated ‘pawpetual’ organisers can be used for journalling, to-do lists, or to remember key annual events.

Hand-drawn by Tegan at the brand’s studio in Wiltshire, they are available now with low minimums and fast delivery.

Call: 01225 866225

Email: hello@fromyoutome.com | Visit: www.fromyoutome.com

Scribing in style Joe Davies

Building on the success of Joe Davies’ Bridgewater boxed pens, the company is proud to introduce its new scribe pens, displayed in a sleek acrylic stand ideal for showcasing. Not only do they look good, they also o er excellent value for money.

The collection includes Tech pens for both ladies and gents, featuring a rubber stylus tip for use with smartphones and tablets. The men’s pens come in classic colours such as black, navy, red, and silver, while the ladies’ pens are available in soft pastel shades of lilac, pink, white, and peach.

Additionally, Joe Davies o ers the elegant scribe rose gold pens, designed with a soft-touch ﬁnish for a comfortable grip. These are available in black, camel, white, and red, each adorned with a rose gold tip and clip.

Known for award-winning service and a diverse selection of gifts, jewellery, and fashion accessories, Joe Davies caters speciﬁcally to independent retailers. Products are o ered in its signature ‘little and often’ quantities, with a minimum order value of just £100 and free nationwide delivery.

Call: 0161 975 6300

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

Gifts Today SHOP TALK

As we move into the golden quarter, Clare Turner asks a selection of gift indies how they are preparing for the Yuletide season, from ordering new lines and organising in-store events to planning themed windows

Bill Nettelfield

Owner

Bill & Bert’s

Colchester

Essex

How is trading for you?

Trade is fabulous this year.

How confident are you about Autumn/Winter?

The way the year has been so far, we’re very confident of an amazing last quarter.

What’s selling well at the moment?

Roka London bags, Freckleface home fragrance, Jellycat and Miffy soft toys, Magma Rocks’ volcanic lava rock diffuser oils, all greeting cards, and all food gifting. Our suppliers for the latter include Cottage Delight, Spice Kitchen, The Bottled Baking Co., Cartwright & Butler, and Uberstar Cocktail Mixes.

What’s new for the festive season?

Having done most trade shows this year, we have loads of fresh lines from both existing suppliers (such as Wrendale Designs, and socks from Swole Panda, Miss Sparrow, and Powder - we will probably sell in the region of 3,000 pairs between November and December!) and new suppliers.

Any special plans for trading up to Christmas?

In Colchester, late night-opening starts on Wednesday November 13 and we will, as usual, have free mulled wine and beer from 11am. The shop will be full of stock and staffed by our great team, giving the best service and experience to our customers.

Priya Aurora-Crowe

Buyer

Lark London

19 shops across London

How confident are you about Autumn/Winter?

A/W24 has started strong and is looking far more promising than last year. This gives us the confidence to keep calm and carry on!

What’s selling well at the moment? Clothing has been doing great for us since September.

What’s new for the festive season?

We’ve got some amazing new brands that will be entering our stores for the festive season - so watch this space!

Any special plans for trading up to Christmas? We will be doing early shop openings and later shop closings from December 1 to December 24.

Richard Barker

Director

Cilla & Camilla

Four stores in West Dorset: Beaminster, Bridport, Sherborne

How is trading for you?

We’re comfortable with current trading, which is exactly in line with our expectations. That said, our expectations for the year have been quite modest. All our shops are now mature; we are no longer seeing the exponential growth associated with new space. We are trading, across the board, roughly 5% ahead of last year.

How confident are you about Autumn/Winter?

We’re confident that sales will continue at this level through to the end of the year, but we’re currently not expecting anything more exciting than this. We’ve been able to hold our costs such that even with sluggish sales, we are generating as much free cash as in previous years.

“We will be starting our main Christmas promotion probably a week earlier than in previous years, responding to what we see happening more widely in the high street”

What’s selling well at the moment?

While sales are relatively slow, we fall back on those brands which have been core to our business over a number of years. These include St. Eval, Jellycat, Hot Tomato, Gisela Graham and The English Soap Company. Of the brands which are new to us this year, two in particular have started strongly: Bramley toiletries and Park Lane fashion accessories.

Our fashion business has suffered through the loss of three brands - Joules, Thought and Great Plains - but we’ve seen compensating growth from two very strong suppliers: Seasalt and White Stuff. Our greeting cards business remains very stable: margins are holding up and volume is ahead of last year.

What’s new for the festive season?

We’re not looking at anything especially new for Christmas. The emphasis will be on making the very most from those brands we know well and are comfortable with.

Any special plans for trading up to Christmas?

We will be starting our main Christmas promotion probably a week earlier than in previous years, responding to what we see happening more widely in the high street.

Our Christmas plans more generally are very similar to previous years. We play a full part in the festive shopping plans in the towns where we trade. All our shops will open on Sundays in December. We will have a stronger social media presence this year and have also committed more than previous years to traditional print media advertising.

So overall, current and forecast trading is not exciting - but we are holding our own, maintaining profitability, and confident that we have a sound business which will grow further when economic conditions improve and consumer confidence returns.

Mark and Marion Flaherty

Co-owners

Best Wishes Cards & Gifts

Garstang

Lancashire

How is trading for you?

It’s been good and fairly consistent over the last few months - but every day is different. It’s quite surprising how busy we can be on a Monday or Tuesday against the traditionally popular trading days of Thursday (Market Day here in Garstang) and Saturday. We benefit from being in a good tourist area with the A6 running along the town, and the Lancaster Canal passing through Garstang itself.

How confident are you about Autumn/Winter?

Obviously ‘Christmas is the season to be busy’ and we hope our regulars keep returning, and possibly new faces from all the new housing in the area, including mums calling in after the morning school run. It’s great to have the next generation appreciating the benefits of bricks-and-mortar shopping.

Greeting cards are a big draw for us. With over 40ft of racks, fitting them all in at Christmas is quite a challenge. Customers start asking in August when the Christmas cards will be out as they appreciate the wide range we stock, and they like to tell us that they only shop with us. It makes us feel like we must be doing something right!

“Customers start asking in August when the Christmas cards will be out”

What’s selling well at the moment?

Cards are our core line, often leading to additional gift and gift wrap sales. Home fragrance from brands including Ashleigh & Burwood, Woodwick, and Inis are always strong, along with plush from Steiff and Jomanda, and the licenced ranges of Paddington and Peter Rabbit from Rainbow Designs.

Our range of handbags, purses and rucksacks from Glen Appin of Scotland (Harris Tweed), Leather Guild (Isla Tweed), and Roka London sell well all year round.

For male gifts (always a tricky area), we find the Oli Olsen range of quality keyrings are a good go-to line. Also covering many hobbies, sports and interests are the engraved wallets from Leather Guild, and Animo Glass products from The Milford Collection.

What’s new for the festive season?

In preparation for A/W trading, following our trip to the Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival in July, we’re now stocking a lovely range of mugs, notebooks, keyrings, candles and diffusers from Meg Hawkins Art. Our Christmas stock of beautifully packaged soaps and bath products has arrived from The Somerset Toiletry Company too.

Any special plans for trading up to Christmas?

In the run-up to Christmas we will open seven days a week as opposed to the usual Monday to Saturday, with late-night opening during the Garstang Victorian Festival in early December.

And for the first time in Garstang, we’re marking the end of the farming season with a Harvest Festival Celebration. We will be taking part with our window display and I [Marion] will be demonstrating the craft of Corn Dolly making in our local arts centre. You never know what you might end up doing when you become a shopkeeper!

Emma Window

Owner/Director

Lazy Duck Interiors

Hockley, Essex (online store)

How is trading for you?

Trading has been a bit slow recently, but I’m happy to say it’s now starting to pick up pace. I’ve seen some encouraging improvements, especially with furniture and home decor sales, and I feel like we’re heading in the right direction as we approach the busier months ahead.

How confident are you about Autumn/ Winter?

I’m increasingly confident - the change in season always brings renewed interest in home interiors. This is our first year of trading within the gift sector but I feel very optimistic. I’ve been hard at work curating a special selection of gift suppliers in preparation for the festive period. With these new additions, I’m excited about what’s to come, and believe it will be a strong season for us.

“We have some festive-themed offers in the works”

What’s selling well at the moment?

Furniture and home decor pieces are performing well, particularly those with a cosy, autumnal feel. People seem to be looking for ways to make their homes more inviting as the weather gets cooler.

Artificial flowers and the Woman’s Head Icon [a handcrafted bust ornament] from Hill Interiors have been popular. Natasha Newton Art Prints from Tall Boy Prints have garnered a lot of attention as well.

What’s new for the festive season?

I’ve been working closely with new suppliers to offer products that will make perfect gifts. Examples include Bottlesoc water bottles and carry sleeve gift sets; Squelch colourful sock boxes for children’s wellington boot socks, with matching children’s wellies; and Henley Woods bubble bath, lotions and candles.

I’m also planning to expand the home decor and Christmas offerings from current suppliers too, so there’s plenty to choose from.

Any special plans for trading up to Christmas?

Yes! We have some festive-themed offers in the works, which will include seasonal promotions and some curated gift bundles designed for the holiday season.

Gifts Today SHOP TALK

Rachel

Buckley

Joint Owner

RBUK

Rochdale

Greater Manchester

How is trading for you?

‘Life is a rollercoaster’ best describes trading at the present time. The shop doorbell rings consistently some days, and on other days we’re asking ourselves: “Where is everyone?” The days when the bell rings are excellent trading days; customers are happy and we go home smiling. In fact, a customer has just said to me: “I love shopping here, it’s my happy place!”

How confident are you about Autumn/Winter?

As a new season approaches, we look forward with optimism. After 24 years of trading, we have been on many rollercoasters.

What’s selling well at the moment?

Our choice of greeting cards keeps customers returning. Our range includes luxury, handcrafted, design-led, art, and humorous cards, for birthdays and all occasions. Home fragrance from Stoneglow, sentimental gifts from East of India, soft toys from Jellycat, and A Little Bracelets from Joma Jewellery are consistently good sellers for us.

What’s new for the festive season?

Plans are underway for Christmas windows and new products are arriving daily. We’re particularly looking forward to selling a new range of umbrellas from Soake. The people of Rochdale are going to look stylish in the rain!

Any special plans for trading up to Christmas?

Christmas arrives at RBUK in late September/early October. We have the space to create a Christmas room. Some customers won’t enter it until December, while others are ready to shop in there now. Nearer Christmas, we open on Mondays to offer extra shopping hours.

“Plans are underway for Christmas windows and new products are arriving daily”

David Lorimer Co-owner Brocante

10 shops across Devon and Cornwall

How is trading for you?

It’s certainly been tougher, with a very wet year and tourism being down. I also think the doom and gloom of the upcoming budget has not helped.

How confident are you about Autumn/ Winter?

Although it will be tough, we remain positive that we’re well-placed to take advantage of every opportunity.

“Christmas is big and we have actually launched this now”

What’s selling well at the moment?

The usual soaps, cards, mugs and jugs etc - and jewellery, especially our own-brand. People are still buying pick-up items as gifts, and also treating themselves.

What’s new for the festive season?

Christmas is big and we have actually launched this now. We’re also doing some more of our ownbrand products alongside our amazing suppliers.

Any special plans for trading up to Christmas?

We have some late night events planned. The main one is our charity Christmas carol evening which is held in our shop in Charlestown [a seaside village in Cornwall], which is a converted church with the pulpit still in place. We raise money for local causes.

Anton Pearson

Garden Centre Manager

Pennells Garden Centre

Lincoln

Lincolnshire

How is trading for you?

It’s been a positive 2024 so far, with an encouraging September.

How confident are you about Autumn/Winter?

From the signs we’ve seen in September with sales and buying patterns, we’re expecting to grow on last year for the remainder of the year.

What’s selling well at the moment?

Within our gift area we’re seeing big sales in our toy department - and candles and diffusers are also performing very strongly.

What’s new for the festive season?

For 2024, we have a larger toy area which has become more commercial, and we’ve also extended our ranging of our festive china and tableware selection, which we hope will be very popular.

Any special plans for trading up to Christmas?

On September 28 and September 29 we had our annual Christmas open weekend, which is always very busy. This includes discounting in our gift area, with lots of events going on. We also run later-closing periods during our peak period in late November and early December.

As we head into the busy Autumn/Winter season, product-based businesses should focus on building and strengthening their relationships with retail buyers. The key to successful wholesale selling during this season lies in open communication and, most importantly, asking the right questions.

By understanding the needs of your buyers, you can tailor your o erings to ﬁll gaps in their stores and boost sales for both parties. In preparation for a presentation I delivered at Top Drawer London’s RetailRevealed stage in September entitled “How to sell to retailers this A/W season”, I reached out to three retailers and asked them two key questions: what are you looking for right now? And are there any gaps you’re looking to ﬁll?

Their responses not only shed light on what products are in demand, but also highlight the importance of keeping an ongoing dialogue with your buyers and potential stockists.

Priya Aurora Crowe, buyer of 19-strong chain Lark London, said: “I’m looking for S/S25 and any last-minute Christmas must-haves! And I’m in desperate need of cushions and photo frames.”

Retail buyers juggle multiple seasons at once, and by asking questions, you can get a clearer picture of their immediate and future needs.

If you’re a brand that supplies home goods like cushions and photo frames, reaching out to Priya with your product options could potentially result in a new business opportunity. Asking her about future needs like S/S25 and beyond

Question time

Therese Oertenblad, founder of Small Business Collaborative, shares strategies for suppliers to get their products on retailers’ shelves for this Autumn/Winter season

might also spark ideas for expanding your line.

Beth Austin, director of 14-strong chain Vinegar Hill, said: “We’re always on the lookout for UK-made products if they sit within the areas for which we buy. We would always try to support businesses closer to home, and if they can tick an environmentally supportive/positive element as well, then that’s also great for our customers and is an additional selling point.

“Make it a priority to connect with your retail buyers and ask about their needs”

“Fashion accessories is a big area for our business and seems to be ever growing, so we are always on the lookout for some on-trend new additions… bags, purses, clutches, hair accessories, and cute and cosy socks which are strong self-purchases but make great gifts too for the season.”

For any business in fashion accessories, this is an invaluable piece of information. By asking Beth what she’s seeking, you can position your products - especially those with sustainable features or UK manufacturing - to meet her speciﬁc needs.

Matt Simpson, owner of The Letter Arty Shop in Manchester, said: ”I like to think I’ve got Christmas organised in terms of cards, but I’m looking to add more Christmas card packs to encourage a higher customer spend, as well as wrapping paper for the ﬁrst time, and, of course, calendars.

“I’m also looking to broaden my stationery o ering as it’s been fairly limited up to now. So products that complement notepads and notebooks such as pencil sets will make for great add-on purchases.”

If you’re a stationery supplier, this insight o ers a clear opportunity to present your products to Matt. By asking him what gaps he’s trying to ﬁll, you could provide him with the perfect add-ons that align with his customers’ needs, thereby increasing his sales and your order volume.

So, why is it so important to ask questions? Firstly, it builds relationships. When you take the time to ask buyers about their current requirements, you show that you care about their business and are willing to tailor your o erings to help them

succeed. This relationship-building aspect is crucial in establishing longterm partnerships.

Secondly, it identiﬁes gaps. Asking questions helps you discover gaps in the buyer’s product range, allowing you to position your products as the solution. For example, if a retailer needs last-minute Christmas items or sustainable fashion accessories, you can present your products as a perfect ﬁt.

Thirdly, it inspires new product ideas. Conversations with buyers can trigger new product suggestions or variations on existing ones. If several retailers mention a gap in their inventory, it could indicate an untapped market for your business.

As you prepare for each buying season, make it a priority to connect with your retail buyers and ask about their needs. Whether they’re looking for last-minute Christmas products, sustainable accessories, or new stationery lines, having open conversations will help you better understand how your products can ﬁt into their stores.

Therese Oertenblad has been in the home and gift industry for 16 years and is the founder of Small Business Collaborative. Since 2018, she has been working with purposeled, product-based business owners who want to grow their wholesale and create a powerful, consistent income stream for their businesses. She is on the national committee of The Giftware Association, and hosts Let’s Talk Shop: a seasonal business podcast sharing industryspeciﬁc business advice.

Visit: https://www.smallbusinesscollaborative.co.uk/ https://www.smallbusinesscollaborative.co.uk/podcast