Greetings Today July August 2024

Editor Naomi MacKay naomi@lemapublishing.co.uk

Advertising

Marian McNamara marian@lemapublishing.co.uk 01442 289940

Managing

Mark

mark@lemapublishing.co.uk

Production

Paul

paul@lemapublishing.co.uk

Design

Chairman

Editor Naomi MacKay

leader

Welcome to summer! Well, at least as I write this, we’re in the midst of a heatwavewhich may well have been and gone by the time the magazine comes through your door or hits your inbox.

And such are the vagaries of the greetings industry that just as we’re blowing up the paddling pool, or heading off on our holidays, we have to think about Christmas!

To be honest, I could have done with sitting in a snowdrift for the past couple of days - but have had to make do with immersing myself in the wintry scenes in our Christmas feature instead. As always, advice from suppliers is to order early!

If you want to ramp up your gift wrap and gift selection ahead of the festive season, we have

some suggestions for that too in our Focus features.

Of course, the arrival of summer also means the arrival of the Harrogate Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival, and visitors can expect plenty of newness, with 32% of exhibitors making their show debut, and a number of brands making a return to the show after not exhibiting in 2023.

To be honest, I could have done with sitting in a snowdrift for the past couple of days - but have had to make do with immersing myself in the wintry scenes in our Christmas feature instead

It’s a popular/well-loved event with many suppliers, as Joe Davies MD Paul Hooker comments: ‘’Harrogate is one of our favourite shows and much less pressured than other exhibitions. The time of year and location really help to make the whole event enjoyable, with relaxed customers and a super atmosphere.’’

Best Kept Secrets MD Vanessa Curry agrees: “The atmosphere at Harrogate is always exhilarating,’’ she says.

Card publisher Grace Jackson made her trade show debut at Harrogate last year and tells us: ‘’I secured my first nine amazing stockists, and met some fantastic people who have since become dear friends.’’

Check out our show preview on page 30 for a sneak peek at what exhibitors will have in store for you…

Home & Gift also sees the announcement of the winner of the People’s Choice category of the Gift of the Year Awards 2024, at Sunday evening’s Sundowner Drinks. And talking of

Send your views and submissions for the magazine to naomi@lemapublishing.co.uk

awards, we caught up with some of the finalists of the Retas Awards, who shared their stories with us in our Retail Interviews, or commented on what they think makes them stand out from the crowd - see Shop Talk on page 53.

We will post the winners on our website once the awards have taken place on July 4 - when we’ll all be awaiting the results of the General Election too!

And last but certainly no means least, do turn to our cover story on page 18, where UK Greetings gives us an in-depth look into its new Camden Signature range. One not to be missed!

As always, we are always keen to hear from any readers who would like to take part in our features, interviews, or news pages. You can email me at naomi@lemapublishing.co.uk or connect with me via LinkedIn. And look out for the Greetings Today team at Harrogate - do stop and say hello!

Moggy Mates

T-Shir t Sheep

Moggy Pots Black and White Cats

Silver Plated Celebration Frames

Folk Ar t Mushrooms & Toadstools

Stabilo pens deal with Asda

Stabilo, the European manufacturer of pens, pencils, and other writing instruments, has announced a new partnership with supermarket giant Asda to stock its range of highquality stationery.

The development marks a significant milestone for Stabilo as it expands its retail presence. Shoppers can now easily access Stabilo’s popular products from vibrant highlighters to precision pens, ensuring they have the perfect tools for school, o ce, and creative projects.

Stabilo will now be stocked in up to 462 Asda stores nationwide, along with being available for purchase online. The full range of products available includes: Stabilo swing cool highlighters; Stabilo point 88 Fineliners; Stabilo BOSS ORIGINAL; Stabilo Pen 68 MAX; Stabilo Cappi, and StabiloMARKdry Whiteboard Markers.

This new partnership marks Stabilo’s move back into grocery stores and a look into the future plans of the brand as it looks to expand its grocery partnership network. Current stockists include independent retailers and news, books and convenience stores.

Shahbaz Khan, market director UK/Ireland at Stabilo, said: ‘’By working together with Asda, we are taking a significant step forward in our mission to bring colour and creativity back into everyday life, inspiring people of all ages to express themselves through our innovative and diverse range of stationery products. We look forward to a successful partnership that benefits our customers and enriches their creative experiences.’”

Marian gets on her bike for charity

Marian McNamara, our very own Greetings Today and Gifts Today advertisement manager, will be taking part in this year’s London Luton Airport Charity Cycle Challenge - covering 220 miles from Dublin to Dingle Bay - in a bid to raise funds for two charities. Marian, pictured third from right, has been taking part in the challenges since 2019, when she and the rest of her team cycled from Paris to Amsterdam, helping to raise over £60,000 for Macmillan. This year’s funds from the three-and-a-half-day cycle challenge will go to the East Anglian Air Ambulance and Luton Food Bank. The 16-strong team aim to raise £30,000.

Marian said: ‘’It’s great to see local charities benefit. Luton is my home town and with the cost-of-living crisis at the moment, more people than ever are turning to food banks for help. And of course the Air Ambulance is always a worthy recipient.’’ Marian has been training for the event with local cycle rides after a hard day selling adverts to our wonderful clients, and recently completed the London to Brighton cycle ride to get even more two-wheeled miles in.

If you’d like to donate to Marian’s fundraising, head to https://gofund.me/f367b349

Widdop and Co tunes in to Say it with Songs

Widdop and Co has formally launched Say it with Songs into its portfolio.

The Say it with Songs concept was dreamed up in lockdown by former music manager, Ellie Fitzgerald, as a concept to connect people through music.

It’s the first-ever greeting card range that combines the sentiment of a greeting card with the power of a song, making it instantly available to listen to thanks to everyday streamable technology. Recipients simply hold their smartphone camera over the QR code that is incorporated into the design and the song streams through Spotify, YouTube or Amazon Music.

These instantly recognisable hits form the foundation for the new extensive line of commercial gifts that have been developed with Widdop and Co and Say it with Songs.

The Greatest Hits collections are built around exciting new gift o erings for all occasions including Father’s Day and other key events in 2024/25.

Widdop and Co has taken over full distribution of the Say it with Songs greeting cards. Ellie will stay at the creative helm for the collaboration.

Widdop and Co CEO, Stephen Illingworth said: “We couldn’t be more excited to have this unique brand in our range, Ellie has created something exceptional with Say it with Songs. Having sought to develop a collection of greeting cards for a long time, it is exciting to start our greeting card journey with this brilliant and unique range.”

Widdop and Co CEO

Stephen Illingworth with Say It With Songs creator Ellie Fitzgerald

Ryman Design opens new store in Edinburgh

High-street stationer Ryman has opened a new Ryman Design Store in Edinburgh.

The store is the latest addition to a growing number of Ryman Design stores across the UK, following the opening of the London Bishopsgate shop in June 2023, and London Marble Arch and Birmingham Grand Central stores later last year.

Theo Paphitis, owner and chairman at Ryman, said: “I’m delighted to be opening our first-ever Scottish Ryman Design store in Edinburgh and building on the brand’s presence in key locations around the UK.

‘’Creativity runs through Edinburgh’s veins, which is why opening our new design-led store, full of unique, design-led stationery, gifts, and cards was a no-brainer for me. This will be our fourth Ryman Design store, and because of the fantastic response they’ve had from our customers, there are more in the pipeline.”

Located in Edinburgh’s St James Quarter, the store is a one-stop shop for stationery enthusiasts and professionals looking for unique, highquality products.

Ryman Design stores are a design specialist o shoot of high-street stationer Ryman, providing customers with unique, trend-led stationery, gifts and cards.

Read Ryman owner

Theo Pathitis’ keynote speech on the stationery industry on page 28

The stores o er various stationery products from leading brands such as Ban.do, Kate Spade, POSCA, Legami, Violet Studios / Crafters Companion and Midori.

Following the launch of Ryman Design Edinburgh, the brand is looking ahead to more stores opening in the near future.

Art of Drag prides itself on Ryman collab

The playful, funny and ever-so-slightly-subversive brand Art of Drag, created by The London Studio and now a standalone business in its own right, plans to slay it for Pride 2024 through June to August with a wide range of specially designed stationery, giftware and cards in collaboration with stationery and o ce supplies group Ryman.

Art of Drag, which takes famous artworks featuring cultural female icons and replaces them with drag artists, is collaborating with both Ryman and its new, design-led concept stores, Ryman Design, for this exclusive Pride 2024 collection.

Launched during the Pride month of June it includes a new Art of Drag Pride Collection of giftware and stationery, along with a specially designed range of nine Art of Drag greeting cards. Both ranges are in-store exclusives to Ryman Design and selected Ryman stores and also available on the Ryman website during Pride 2024.

The Art of Drag Pride Collection of giftware and stationery includes notebooks with gold-edged pages, mugs with gold handles, coasters, tote bags, water bottles, magnets and more. There’s also a range of boxed pens with positive sentiments engraved on the pens, such as: You Are Loved, and the fun and cheeky engraving: Don’t F*ck It Up, which lovers of drag may recognise.

This new Pride giftware and stationery collection was created by Art of Drag’s lead LGBTQ+ artist, who has combined bold, ‘sticker-like’ graphics with geometric grids and the colours of the Progress Pride Flag. The collection celebrates diversity and calls for a more inclusive society, values which are at the heart of Art of Drag.

The 2024 Art of Drag Pride card collection works with the classic style that made the brand famous – bringing drag artists to famous artworks – for a brand-new selection. The cards have been created by LGBTQ+ artists and allies. Each card sold helps support these independent artists and the small businesses they manage.

Are you a retailer of cards and wrap? Do you want to buy direct from the manufacturer? With over 2,500 Christmas & Everyday products to choose from! Visit...

Available August from

10% off your first order use code

Royal Mail’s David Gold to speak at Conference

The 2024 annual GCA Conference and AGM will be held in Bristol on Thursday 19 September at the Bristol Harbour Hotel.

This year, David Gold, Royal Mail’s director external a airs & policy, will be speaking. He is keen to hear members’ concerns as well as to share Royal Mail’s plans for the future, including Christmas 2024.

“We look forward to welcoming David to our Conference, and appreciate his willingness to hear directly from members and share Royal Mails plans especially ahead of the crucial run-up to Christmas” said Amanda Fergusson, the GCA’s CEO.

Sustainability will be the subject of a talk by James Stevens, of James Ellis. James launched his business under the name James Ellis Stevens in 1990. Known for high-quality blank greeting cards, children’s cards and gift stationery, it supplies a wide range of retailers in the UK and abroad.

James will talk about the challenges of reinventing the range - which seven years ago contained plastic and loose glitter - to make it plastic free, and how this led the company to join the 1% for the Planet organisation, and how they now look at sustainability di erently.

And Mark Callaby of Ohh Deer will be sharing some of the lessons he has learned running the company he and business and life partner Jamie Mitchell started as an online business in his grandmother’s attic in 2011.

Book tickets at www.gca.cards/2024-gca-conferenceand-agm-thursday-19th-september-2024

Edible dog greeting card firm joins paws with John Lewis

Chorley-based Sco Paper, which designs and manufactures edible greeting cards for dogs, has partnered with top retailers, John Lewis, Butternut Box and Daylesford Organic, to create exclusive ‘In Cahoots’ product ranges.

The company makes the world’s only edible cards for dogs for celebrations such as birthdays, ‘gotcha days’ and other special occasions, in irresistible flavours including chicken, bacon and cheese. The four-year-old businesswhich recently appeared on Dragons’ Den, securing investment from Sara Davies - has been commissioned by some of the UK’s favourite retailers wanting a taste of the hit concept.

Following a successful in-store trial in four of its stores, John Lewis is now set to stock a range of bespoke Sco Paper edible dog cards at all of its 35 sites across the UK, as well as online. What’s more, the self proclaimed dogfriendly retailer has commissioned an exclusive Christmas collection of edible cards for dogs.

Daylesford Organic, the high-end gift retailer, has also formed an ‘In Cahoots’ partnership with Sco Paper, where the artwork of famous artist Hugo Guinness will be incorporated into a stunning set of bespoke cards. These will be sold at the company’s six bricks-and-mortar stores in London and the Cotswolds, as well as online.

The founders of Sco Paper also recently worked ‘In Cahoots’ with fresh dog food subscription company, Butternut Box, to develop a one-o card to help the company celebrate its 7th birthday.

Gemma Connolly, Sco Paper founder and volunteer Guide Dog puppy raiser,

said: “It’s so important to us to make our cards accessible to dog lovers everywhere. By carefully selecting the right partners, we can work side-by-side with retailers who know and understand their own customers’ needs to develop products that are just right for them.

“As our business grows, we’re keen to explore more exclusive ‘In Cahoots’ partnerships to make it easy for dog lovers to show their appreciation for their pets - wherever they like to shop. As part of this, it’s critical our brand values are aligned and that our collaborators are as keen as us to keep things fresh, creative and top quality.’’

www.sco paper.com

James Ellis

David Gold

Mark Callaby

Louise Mulgrew rewilds with Rewilding Britain

Card publisher Louise Mulgrew has extended her commitment to supporting the planet with a pledge to donate a percentage of profits to an organisation whose mission is to achieve the large-scale restoration of nature across Britain

Publisher of nature-inspired greeting cards, Louise Mulgrew, now donates 1% of its turnover to Rewilding Britain, which aims to create a wilder Britain that improves lives for people, nature and the climate.

Louise tells Greetings Today: ‘’As a paper-based business creating artwork inspired by our planet’s beautiful and diverse wildlife, we want to be a part of protecting and reviving it! Over the past four years, we are really proud to have funded the planting of 500,000 trees together with our customers, through our pledge of ‘1 tree per 2 packs of cards’ with Eden Reforestation Projects. But we’re learning that there is a wilder approach to helping our planet: rewilding.

‘’Rewilding is the large-scale restoration of nature until it can take care of itself – and us – again. It’s about restoring nature’s remarkable web of life, including habitats, natural processes and and the diversity and abundance of native species. According to Rewilding

Britain, by rewilding 30% of Britain’s native woodland, peatlands, heaths and grasslands, we can capture 12% of the UK’s greenhouse gas emissions.

‘‘We now donate 1% of our turnover to Rewilding Britain, to create a wilder Britain that improves lives for people, nature and the climate’’

‘’So our pledge is, in addition to the 1% we donate to the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, and the restoration work we fund with Eden Reforestation Projects, we now donate 1% of our turnover to Rewilding Britain, to create a wilder Britain that improves lives for people, nature and the climate.

‘’So when our customers buy our cards, they can feel proud knowing they are a part of the good fight to tackle the climate crisis and bring nature back to life.’’

Louise Mulgrew 01273 783833

spotlight

Zoo tales…

The Art File has launched five exciting new ranges in its Autumn/Winter 2024 collections. Two notable new card collections include Tale & Ivy and Zig Zag Zoo. Tale & Ivy is a whimsical collection featuring small woodland animals and botanicals. Created by one of its talented designers, Millie, every design is printed on premium board, finished with elegant gold foil and comes with a lovely ivory envelope.

Zig Zag Zoo is an adorable children’s card collection containing 12 brilliant designs. Every card features a pair of geometric animals in pastel colours, with six designs available as age cards too. Printed on a textured board, and finished with die-cut and Spot UV, this playful collection is a must-have for this year.

Visit The Art File at Harrogate Home & Gift to see more than 170 new designs at DPI Stand C5.

Art File sales@theartfile.com www.theartfiletrade.com

Bold for the boys

A bold contemporary feel makes Nigel Quiney Publications’ new male range Endeavour stand out on any display. When you are looking for a way to celebrate a friend or family member’s love for sports then this selection of themed greeting cards is the one for you. The talented artist has worked hard to create cards that capture the spirit of each activity in a retro sports poster styling, making them the perfect card for any sporting fan.

As the name Endeavour implies, the designs show sports needing effort and a conscientious activity intended to do or accomplish something special.

All 12 new card designs have been printed on a textured, coated board, 300gsm Veltique ice. Nigel Quiney Publications 01799 520200

info@nigelquiney.com www.nigelquiney.com

Add a splash of colour with Alljoy Designs new 3D popup cards. Full of vibrancy and creative designs these award-winning ranges are sure to be a winner. Gardens are featured in the ranges, from the beauty of colourful flowers to the peace and tranquillity of greenhouses and nature in general - these card ranges are perfect for celebrating the season.

Alljoy Design info@alljoydesign.com www.alljoydesign.com

Grace Jackson Design is set to impress with its latest product offerings. Among the new arrivals are the foiled Christmas cards, featuring charming labradors and glistening bauble designs. These cards beautifully capture the festive spirit with their luxurious hot foil finishes, making them perfect for the holiday season.

Additionally, explore popular ranges such as the Adult Birthday Stripes, Exam Congratulations Stars, and the Floral Illustrated birthday and blank collections. Each of these ranges has received excellent feedback and has been well-received by new and existing stockists. The Adult Birthday Stripes range is vibrant and celebratory, while the Exam Congratulations Stars range offers a special touch for congratulatory moments. The Floral Illustrated range, with its intricate designs and delicate illustrations, remains a timeless favourite.

All products are printed on premium FSC-certified board, underscoring Grace Jackson Design’s commitment to sustainability. Experience these stunning new collections firsthand and appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship that go into each piece at Harrogate Home & Gift, Stand DP1-A19. Grace Jackson Design 07902875014

hello@gracejacksondesign.co.uk

www.gjdesignwholesale.co.uk

Mixed metals and smiling sheep

Mixing metals is one of the biggest jewellery trends of the moment and a great way to spice up an autumn/winter wardrobe. The stylish new Equilibrium Mixed Metal Collection from Joe Davies features stunning necklaces, earrings and bracelets, all plated in a combination of silver, gold and gun metal, resulting in a fresh maximalist yet incredibly wearable look. One of the reasons why mixed metal jewellery has become so popular is because it allows you to make a bold statement and it’s versatile, allowing you to transition effortlessly from day to night.

Decorative ornamental sheep, meanwhile, have taken off as an attractive way to add wit and an element of cuteness to any space. If you haven’t considered a sheep of your own yet then look no further than these standing, sitting and dangly leg T-Shirt Sheep from Joe Davies! Curly, fluffy fabric covered sheep wearing colourful blue, yellow and orange stripey t-shirts are sure to bring a smile to your face and be the talking point of any home.

Joe Davies will be exhibiting at Harrogate Home and Gift Stand B-A02.  Recently, it transitioned to an employee-owned business. The team takes pride in its reputation for award-winning service and offering one of the largest ranges of gifts, jewellery and fashion accessories in the industry. All products are available in the signature ‘little and often’ quantities, with a minimum order value of just £100 and free nationwide delivery.

Visit Joe Davies at Home & Gift Stand B-A02, and Autumn Fair Stand 7C40-E41. Joe Davies 0161 975 6300 | sales@joedavies.co.uk | www.joedavies.co.uk

Rush Design has released a new collection. Dotty is a collection for new baby, christening and parents-to-be. A vintage boho style with playful coloured dots across the background.

The initial range consists of 12 cards. Printed on 300gsm textured board (FSC certified), finished with glitter and diamantes, and matched with a textured cream envelope and cello wrapped.

Rush Design 01788 521745 info@rushdesign.co.uk www.rushdesign.co.uk

spotlight

Sweet collaboration

A big fan of bold colour, Earlybird is very excited about the extension of its floral art collection Honey in collaboration with top textile designer Linsey Kelly.

With Kelly’s skill at using colour and tiny details, Earlybird’s co-founder Dom Early, felt that extending the collection into female relations was a natural fit. Dom explains: “Our Honey range was the perfect one to fill our portfolio gap, not only because the blank and everyday birthday designs are super popular, but because her style really appeals to the female customer.”

Kelly draws her inspiration from the natural world and traditional pattern-making techniques including block printing, Paisley designs and Indonesian batik. The results are pretty, colourful, bold and eye-catching.

Earlybird has printed all the designs on 100% recycled textured board, coupled with a recycled Kraft fleck envelope.

Earlybird Design 01227765372

Eye candy…

Holy Mackerel introduces Cotton Candy, a gloriously vibrant range of occasion cards designed by its very own textile artist (and director!), Sarah Hopkins. Each card in this collection is a printed reproduction of Sarah’s original appliqué designs, showcasing her unique flair for colour and creativity. Bright, fun, and undeniably charming, the Cotton Candy range is poised to become a favourite for all those special moments.

Fancy florals

New from Hopscotch Paper Co is a luxurious collection of floral-inspired designs covering birthdays and a selection of occasions including engagement, wedding, anniversary and more.

Suitably titled Fancy Florals, this delightfully delicate collection of cards is exactly that; a range of bright, colourful and contemporary illustrations finished with a flash of gold foil.

This new range is sure to catch the eye of the sender and spark moments of magic for the receiver.

Hopscotch Paper Co www.hopscotchwholesale.com

Note perfect

The Little Notes range by Jessie Maeve Studio is inspired by the latest fashion and interiors trends, resulting in cards that look stylish on the most beautiful of mantlepieces. This colourful graphic range uses hand-drawn lettering and on-trend patterns to create a bold statement.

dom@earlybirddesigns.co.uk | www.earlybirddesigns.co.uk Sew

In a recent chat with Sarah, she shared: “I love putting together these designs. I get a chance to delve into my bags of technicolour scrap fabric, incorporating everything from old school shirts and pyjamas to charity shop finds. My sewing room is definitely one of my happy places!’’

Sarah’s creative flare has given life to nine stunning, eyecatching occasion cards that are sure to capture the heart of any recipient. The collection covers a wide array of sentiments, including anniversary, well done, thank you, good luck, and sympathy cards.

Each 12 x 17cm card is printed in the UK on board from sustainable sources, demonstrating Holy Mackerel’s commitment to quality and the environment. To further emphasise its eco-friendly ethos, every card comes with an envelope in a biodegradable cornstarch bag.

Holy Mackerel 01395 578571

sales@holy-mackerel.co.uk

www.holy-mackerel.co.uk

There are 17 designs in the range, covering everyday occasions including new baby, new home, plus new Christmas designs. The Little Notes range is printed onto stylish Callisto diamond white matt card, A6 size with Kraft envelopes.

Jessie Maeve Studio 07941 393861 jessiemaeve@icloud.com www.jessiemaeve.com

Launching this month, Humour Collective is Paperlink’s very latest humour range. Combining a variety of artistic styles, this new collection incorporates witty puns and modern artwork to create cards that will have customers laughing out loud.

Plus, Paperlink’s new collection, Needle & Thread, is inspired by the intricacy of applique embroidery; these cards combine a theme of nature with vibrant colours to create something truly special. Paperlink 02075 828244 info@paperlink.co.uk | www.paperlink.uk

All about buying

This year’s Autumn Fair promises more opportunities for your business to thrive with 200 new exhibitors, innovative business pavilions and exclusive partnerships

Brilliant buying

Autumn Fair 2024 has a greater focus on creating a buying experience that optimises your time and ensures that you get the most out of your visit. Get a first look at the latest, groundbreaking launches across 10 definitive sectors with Autumn Fair’s 500,000-plus purchase-ready products. The show is also bridging the gap between online and o ine buying to simplify your processes and bring you more products. Autumn Fair’s partnership with Faire means you’ll have the opportunity to discover even more unique products and benefit from exclusive discounts.

The September show is also celebrating the best that Britain has to o er, paying homage to the British suppliers who are able to fulfil quick turnarounds with new and locally-made products.

New Business Pavilions

One of the highlights of this year’s event is the introduction of New Business Pavilions, featuring 100 stands dedicated to showcasing the newest brands and products in the industry. These pavilions provide a dedicated area for you to discover new and growing businesses and their unique products. Whether you’re looking for new additions to your collections or your next bestseller, the New Business Pavilion is a must-visit.

Who’s who of retail

As well as hundreds of the leading brands returning to Autumn Fair, over 25% of the exhibitor line-up is new and over 30% are exclusive to the show, making it the most exciting and biggest stocked trade show for the third quarter.

Sought-after brands include Widdop & Co, Lesser and Pavey, Hill Interiors, Malini, Sifcon, Chic Antique, Kikkerland Europe B.V, Walton & Co, Quirky Barn, London Ornaments, Blooms by Samuel Baker, Ultimate Products, East of India, Forever England, Quay Traders, Verma Enterprises, Alchemy England, Price’s Patent Candles, Home Fragrance Co, House of Disaster, Bubblegum Stu , Crystal Magick Wholesale, Luxa, Willsow, Keel Toys, Fountasia Ltd, DCUK, Ty UK, Bomb Cosmetics, Casa Verde UK, Chalk UK, Brainbox Candy, Twizler, Marina B, Rex London, Cardgains, The Art File, Emotional Rescue, Five Dollar Shake, Gift Republic, Gingko, Grupo Erik, University Games, House of Marbles, Lanka Kade, Hippychick, Joe Davies, Richard Lang & Sons, Jess & Lou, D&X, Miss Shorthair, Amber Hall Jewellery, Berber Leather, Big Metal, Saloos, Ashwood Leather, Lunar, Lighthouse Clothing, Jessica Graaf, and hundreds more.

Elevate your Greetings

In Greetings & Stationery look out for gorgeous new brands Megan Claire and Rush Design. Regular exhibitor The Art File launches a new brand, Tall Boy Prints - the home of luxury wall art prints from a range of talented artists. Championing its new sustainable products, The Art File is proud to state that all its greeting cards are printed in the UK, and all of the cards, gift bag and gift wrap board are sustainably sourced, plastic-free and recyclable. The company has introduced a number of sustainable alternatives to its products, such as woven paper handles on gift bags, and glassine band options for cards. The new products always have a sustainable focus, such as using recycled cotton with the tote bag collection and the desk calendars being completely plastic-free. New to the GCA Debut space, meet 5C Designs, which digitally recreates its own

photographs into artwork, including greeting cards, prints, silk scarves, cosmetic bags, and notebooks.

Natural Partners is an established family-run publishing business that specialises in reproducing original artworks as high-quality blank greeting cards. The publisher is currently working with 65 talented artists and photographers, giving a huge portfolio of more than 1,800 card designs, with a vast array of subjects and styles to suit every taste.

Natural Partners will be displaying all its new cards for 2024, including new ranges by Anne Bardsley, Geo Beckett, Antonia Dennis and Christopher McColl, along with lots of bestsellers by Nikki Monaghan, Kate Green, Lesley Anne Ivory, Peter M. Hicks, Claire West and many more.

If you’re visiting Autumn Fair looking for new products from an ‘eco’ brand with a long history of environmental responsibility, then The Eco-friendly Card Company is the stand to visit!

Look out for its new collection of 100% recycled Christmas cards with The Wildlife Trust, highlighting the very best of British wildlife with every product featuring interesting text about the species depicted. Like all cards from The Eco-friendly Card Co, they are printed on 100% recycled FSC board carbon-balanced with The World Land Trust. The new collection can be ordered at the show alongside the publishers other photographic and art ranges.

Designed in the UK and using paper sourced from FSCcertified suppliers, Lola Design will launch its latest note card packs as well as a new peacock stationery collection and peacock wallpaper. Embark on a magical journey with the enchanting Wildlife Botanical Collections. Discover four new collections inspired by Lola’s interior wallpapers which complement existing bee and hummingbird collections, promising a harmonious blend of beauty and nature.

And finally, don’t miss regulars Brainbox Candy, Cardgains, Emma Ball, Emotional Rescue, Five Dollar Shake, Life Charms, Louise Tiler, Manuscript Pen Company, Marina B Designs, Moongazer Cards, Paper Salad, Twizler, and Wish Strings.

Lola Design

Natural Partners

The Eco Card Company

Craftsmanship at its heart

UK Greetings introduces its premium Camden Signature collection, uniquely crafted with high-calibre designs from a team of talented artists…

UK Greetings (UKG) has a long and distinguished history of developing award-winning designs based on extensive industry experience and knowledge, sound research and creative prowess. Never ones to stand still, the publisher is always constantly looking to innovate and bring exciting new products to its customers.

And now, UK Greetings is absolutely delighted to introduce Camden Signature - a premium collection of uniquely crafted designs. From premium finishes to refined illustration, this new collection has craftmanship at its heart. Each range has its own voice and individuality, o ering a perfect choice for every style and taste.

This premium collection consists of 63 cards spread out across 12 new looks with plans to expand into seasons.

The collection launched at this year’s PG Live with a really strong reaction and stock is now available to order.

Astrid – Astronomy collides with art to create a cosmic fusion of gold brushstrokes and intricate constellations

Artists at work

As with most great products, this range wasn’t developed by chance and was a culmination of lots of activity behind the scenes, working with a group of very talented artists. Lecia Pilak-Dakin and Olivia Mitchell were the creative managers leading the development of this project.

“Camden Signature has craftmanship at its heart,” Lecia explains. “From the premium board, envelopes and clasps to the distinctive finishes and refined illustration, we were led from the start by an obsessive attention to quality and detail.”

Olivia adds: “The 12 signature ranges each have their own voice and individuality and o er a di erent choice for every style and taste.”

It’s this choice that UKG believes will appeal to a wide variety of consumers, with the added attraction of a competitive price point.

Olivia perfectly sums up the passion behind the range: “We’ve worked closely

Lillie – Sophisticated blacks and golds, a delicate illustration style and fine foil detailing give an understated elegance

The Edit – Distinctive, classy and understated…The Edit speaks for itself

blossom – Bursting with ditsy florals in summery shades, Blueberry Blossom gives an uplifting, energising vibe

Blueberry

with our creative team to develop high-calibre designs that have their own voice within the Camden portfolio; we believe our customers and consumers will love the designs as much as we do.”

Brought to life

The project was brought to life swiftly; a collaboration across the entire business to ensure the ranges after manufacture matched the expectations of the creatives involved. It’s safe to say the finished printed designs are truly exquisite, with beautiful finishes and attention to detail.

“We are so proud of the launch of our new Camden Signature range at PG Live. The response from our customers and from the industry has been fantastic. The collection has been really well received, taking many orders during the two-day event. It’s flying out!” says Louise James, head of brand.

Camden Signature fact file

• There are 63 cards across 12 di erent looks (two looks in captions only)

• 40 cards in standalone – code 75 (159 x159)

• 23 cards in captions – code 90 (159 x 184)

• Beautiful board - Brampton

• High-quality envelope

• Premium finishes

• Paired back and succinct editorial voice

• Clasp to complete the quality aesthetic

Other ranges

Wild valley

The Wanderer Summer Haze (captions only)

Love The Little Things (captions only)

01924 436377 Northern 01924 436339 Southern/Eastern 01924 436347 Western/Ireland salesandservice@ukgreetings.co.uk

Bordeaux - Capturing the style of vintage poster art, Bordeaux showcases the finer luxuries in life

Hello Lovely – Sweet and special with a punch of colour, Hello Lovely celebrates all the best things birthdays bring!

The Good Life – Inspired by the great outdoors, The Good Life captures the pastimes and adventures we enjoy the most

White Lotus - Silver holographic foil and bevelled gold detailing elevate tranquil, nature-inspired imagery to evoke a calm elegance

Season’s greetings

The sun is shining and we’re looking forward to the summer holidays, but now’s the time to look ahead to Christmas. Here’s some treats you might find in your stocking this year…

Supplier comment

How is this sector being a ected by the rise in postal service etc?

Despite the frequent postage increases, Jonny Javelin continues to enjoy a buoyant Christmas season. I feel that our extensive range of individual captions has a lot to do with this success. Consumer research indicates that the traditional Christmas card purchaser will carry on sending cards to significant friends and relations and will absorb the postage cost where necessary.

Are you doing anything di erently to counteract this?

Keeping card prices fixed without reducing the quality for yet another Christmas hopefully mitigates the rise in postage costs to the consumer.

Are there any trends in this sector that we can look out for?

There’s a continuing demand for traditional Christmas cards with romantic and cute styles for certain captions.

What ranges are you especially excited about?

Mandy and I are particularly excited about the two new Christmas ranges – Twilights and Poppets - which appeal respectively to the romantic and cute Christmas market. Plus, we’re happy to report that the Christmas classic Velvet range with lots of new images for this year is as popular as ever.

Jonny Spears

The Jonny Javelin Card Company

New festive looks for 2024

Jonny says one of the advantages of printing cards locally is that it’s not too late to order the legendary Christmas collection for delivery from August this year.

This year the publisher introduced two new ranges for Christmas – Xmas Poppets with delightful, quaint figures with a nostalgic and whimsical feel that will no doubt elicit the ‘aahhh factor’. All finished beautifully with silver foil, red flitter and lovely embossing – the backgrounds include a deep midnight blue and a soft pale grey with lots of snowballs and cute pet friends (even more aaahh factor). There are two sizes – code 75 and code 60 RRP – both with a colour printed leaf insert.

Xmas Twilights is a new look from Jonny Javelin for Xmas 2024. Enchanting and frosty landscape illustrations with appealing, elegant figures set on an atmospheric winter’s eve. Delicately finished with opulent, gold satin fluted foil, red flitter and embossing. There are two sizes – code 75 RRP and code 65 RRP – both with a colour printed leaf insert.

Jonny tells us they are both going down very well and, combined with super new designs in the bestselling Xmas Velvet, as well as Signature Seasons, Christmas Twingles and Fudge & Friends, all styles and tastes are covered.

info@jonnyjavelin.co.uk www.jonnyjavelin.co.uk

The Jonny Javelin Card Company 01423 563740

Focus on... Christmas

Magical gift giving

The Art File Christmas 2024 collection has been curated to make your festive gift-giving even more magical. With more than 170 designs to choose from, there’s something for everyone in this stunning collection.

From a range of charity cards, to a selection of luxurious boxed cards and hand-folded 3D pop-ups, The Art File offers a diverse collection of beautiful, high-quality Christmas cards in which there is something for all ages, and every member of the family. Alongside cards, The Art File also offers a unique and contemporary festive gift packaging collection, comprising gift bags, flat wrap, roll wrap, tissue and tags. All designed to turn the heads of even the most discerning of retailers, and of course look fantastic under the tree this Christmas. Home & Gift is a fantastic opportunity for retailers to see the Christmas 2024 collection in its entirety.

A crackling Christmas…

Robins have always been an important iconic image for Christmas and are trending in the world of UK gifts.

With this in mind, Joe Davies has introduced new items to its popular Christmas Crackle Robin range.

This traditional Robin range features on crackle-look glass tealights and LED balls, making them the perfect Xmas decoration to add a warm merry glow to those long Christmas nights.

Free nationwide delivery, carriage paid orders of just £100 and an easy to buy ‘little and often’ ordering system are all hallmarks of the award-winning Joe Davies Customer Service, as well as the largest gift, jewellery and fashion accessories collection in the industry.

Joe Davies 0161 975 6300

sales@joedavies.co.uk www.joedavies.co.uk

Get Xmas ready

No sooner has one festive season passed than a new one starts in the greeting card industry. The creative studio at Cherry Orchard starts work designing the new season before the previous Christmas has even sold! The new designs are then printed in the early part of the year to ensure the retailers can start selling from August.

For retailers, Christmas is an incredibly important sales peak with Christmas cards occupying just under a half of all card sales. Starting earlier in the year extends that selling time.

Preparing early has many advantages as is it a very busy time, with us all often juggling a million different things. For the customer, seeing Christmas cards in the shops early is a visual reminder that Christmas is coming. This creates a mindset to prepare; one job that you can do now is buy your Christmas cards. It also means you can get the designs you want, by having first dibs and choosing from the entire Christmas card range that’s on offer. For some, it can also help ease financial worries by spreading the cost of Christmas over several months. Another advantage is, if you are ready early, you can send early, avoiding Christmas cards getting caught up in the postal delays and strikes, ensuring cards arrive on doorsteps in plenty of time!

Look out for Cherry Orchard’s beautiful Christmas collection hitting the shelves this Autumn. It features the publisher’s outstanding range Grace and Grayson with its fusion of opulence and traditional artwork finished with a flourish of gold and silver foil.

Cherry Orchard’s Christmas 2024 collection combines those hard-to-find titles alongside all the popular best-selling relation titles as well as 18 open square designs, perfect for sending that Christmas sparkle.

Cherry Orchard Publishing

01684 295500

info@cherryorchardpublishing.co.uk www.cherryorchardpublishing.co.uk

Mini magic

Louise Mulgrew says: ‘’I loved designing our Christmas ranges this year especially as I got to create some mini Christmas cards for the first time! Our mini cards have been a huge success for us since launching them in February 2023 and so we definitely wanted to extend it to include Christmas minis too. We’ve introduced 24 mini designs featuring simple but charming gouache illustrations, including classic Christmas motifs such as Christmas trees, wreaths and gingerbread men, but also playful cute animals in our signature style. And of course lots of cosy Christmas hats!’’

For the standard size range this year, Louise decided to go back to her animal-loving roots and focus the designs entirely on animals in Christmas hats and scarves, accompanied by a new handpainted font. She adds: ‘’Although I absolutely love foil on a Christmas card (or any card), I wanted these designs to be a slightly lower price point for our customers, and a nod in the direction of our Furry Friends collection, with the simplicity of lots of white space, paint splatters and of course, lovable animal characters.’’ Louise Mulgrew

Colour and creativity

Alljoy Design’s Christmas collections are bursting with colour and creativity, and new designs will be showcased at Harrogate Home & Gift Stand DP1- C57.

From the award-winning Message in a Bottle to the Paper Theatre and wooden ornament cards, Alljoy Design o ers a creative and colourful

option for your Christmas cards. Highlighted at the show will be new designs and colour options; come and see for yourself at Harrogate Home and Gift for the perfect chance to appreciate the wonder of 3D greeting cards.

Alljoy Design | www.alljoydesign.com | info@alljoydesign.com

Rush Design has launched a new Christmas collection for 2024.

Snowdrops is a beautifully illustrated Christmas range. It focuses on Relations and special people captions including plenty of Friends, Both of You and Special Couples. In addition, the ever-popular Town Card is back again, which can be personalised to the town where your shop is located.

Colourful and bright with a muted background and gold foiling for that luxury feel.

Printed on 300gsm textured board (FSC certified). Finished with foil and diamantes, and matched with a gold envelope and cello wrapped. Rush Design 01788 521745 | info@rushdesign.co.uk | www.rushdesign.co.uk

Have a blue Christmas…

Out of the Blue Studios’ superb Christmas 2024 Counter collection will be available from early August to buy from its wholesale/distribution partners, or via the trade website at www.outofthebluedirect.co.uk

With more than 800 products to choose from, you’ll find all the everyday design styles and captions you need, available in Code 50, Code 75 and Code 125. Each pack of six cards comes with a ‘Caption Header’ and is manufactured on FSC sustainably sourced board, with a foil finish to complement every design.

Plus, the hugely successful Christmas Boxed collection will be available from early August, offering an unrivalled choice, that combines excellent value for money with superb designs and quality.

Boxes include a 24in Luxury Boxed (2 Design Per Box) – 10 design themes; 12in Premium Square Collection with Full Colour Inserts – 10 design themes; 12in Premium Landscape Collection with embossed foil and full colour Inside – eight design themes; and a 50in Family Box – 10 Designs in various sizes for all the family.

See the collection at https://online.fliphtml5.com/yhqmd/oqvk.

Out of the Blue Studios

www.outofthebluestudios.co.uk www.outofthebluedirect.co.uk

Capturing festive spirit

Grace Jackson Design is unveiling a stunning new Christmas card collection that perfectly captures the festive spirit. Combining meticulous craftsmanship with sustainable practices, these cards are designed to delight both the sender and the recipient, adding a touch of magic to the holiday season.

The new Christmas card collection showcases Grace Jackson’s signature style, featuring intricate floral patterns, delicate illustrations, and luxurious hot foil finishes. The use of hot foil adds a sophisticated touch, ensuring that every card stands out and becomes a cherished keepsake.

One of the standout features of this collection is the variety of designs that cater to di erent tastes and preferences. Among the most popular are the cards featuring charming labradors and glistening bauble designs. These cards beautifully capture the joy and warmth of the holiday season, making them perfect for spreading festive cheer.

Grace Jackson Design 07902875014 | hello@gracejacksondesign.co.uk www.gjdesignwholesale.co.uk

Stinky seasons greetings!

‘’When you’ve got three brothers, Happy Christmas Stinky Brother is exactly the card I’m looking for,’’ laughs Earlybird co-founder Dom Early.

Taking inspiration from his Super Fab range as well as from members of the family, Dom loved creating this latest Christmas range. “Beer, wine and farts, it’s what Christmas is all about isn’t it?’’ he jokes.

There are 18 relations cards in the range as well as some cracking designs you could give to anyone who you consider to be a top human.

From a Cheesy Nephew to a Wine-tastic mum, all the cards are printed on 100% recycled textured board with a gold foil finish.

Earlybird Designs 01227765372

dom@earlybirddesigns.co.uk www.earlybirddesigns.co.uk

Boxing day…

The team at Louise Tiler Designs always look forward to the Christmas season. The catalogue is full of beautiful modern designs with a range of captions suitable for everyone.

Some of the best-selling Christmas cards have also been turned into card packs. These include six cards and envelopes of one design presented in a hand-illustrated box to match the card inside.

Louise Tiler Designs www.louisetiler.com

Christmas really isn’t Christmas without Rainbow Designs’ The Snowman and The Snowdog range! This wonderful collection of The Snowman and The Snowdog soft toys makes the most magical Christmas gift for any fan of Raymond Briggs’ festive favourite. The best-selling collection, which is available now, features the adorable Musical Snowman soft toy that plays the nostalgic favourite We’re Walking in the Air lullaby, making it a truly festive gift for fans of all ages. For the youngest fans, the Snowman and Snowdog bean toys also make the perfect early years Christmas presents too, and to help get customers into the Christmas spirit there is The Snowman and The Snowdog standee, available to help promote this wonderful collection.

Rainbow Designs 01329 227300

sales@rainbowdesigns.co.uk www.rainbowdesigns.co.uk

Moving with the times

Ryman owner and chairman Theo Paphitis shares a personal reflection of his career journey within the stationery sector

When I was young, I hated school. I’m dyslexic so I couldn’t write and read properly. It was an absolute nightmare. So the last thing I thought I’d get involved in was stationery.

As I wasn’t academic, I skipped classes, so I was given the tuck shop to run - which I loved. Being a shopkeeper is obviously in my blood.

Roll forward to my first job. In those days you had to send a stamped addressed envelope for an application form. You’d fill it in, send it back, and then sit by your letterbox waiting for a response.

I must have sent 100 and got three replies, all of which were ‘nos’. So I was struggling. Then I worked out that I probably wasn’t doing myself any favours filling in the form because my handwriting was sh*t and my spelling was worse. I wasn’t really putting my best foot forward.

So I went to an employment agency, and a lady set up a couple of interviews for that day. For the first one, I had to complete a form. It didn’t go very well. The second one?

- by Clare Turner

No form, just a chat. It was at a city insurance broker and I was o ered a job: £1,500 a year as a filing clerk (assistant to the tea-stirrer).

I had to get in by 7am, go to the Telex room, and collect all the messages that came in on the Telex machine from all over the world for insurance cover. I had a Helix ruler,

''There’s a more relaxed attitude in working practices. A lot of workplaces let their sta buy their own stationery now''

tore o every message, Pritt-sticked each one to an A4 piece of paper, wrote the name of the broker it was intended for on it, and left it on their chair. That was my first experience of using stationery products.

But after a few days I was asked to write amendments on documents. I did the first pile and got it thrown back to me with the words, ‘this is

illegible’. Our o ce was on London’s Borough High Street - and right by the tube station was a Ryman. So I bought a calligraphy pen and some ink, because I was determined. I needed this job and had to do something about it. I practised my handwriting night after night. It took about a week but there was a massive transformation.

The spelling wasn’t quite right though. So, back into Ryman for a small dictionary (which I still have). That was my first exposure to Ryman, at the age of 17.

On making changes

I bought Ryman in 1995. The number one seller back then was fax rolls followed by fax paper. But the most exciting thing in the stationery market was the growth of Filofaxesthey were going great guns.

Ryman is 130 years old this year, so we’ve been around a long time. But we’re not going to exist if we sell the same products we sold 100 years ago - even more so now, with the internet.

If you’re going to be a high street

retailer, there has to be a reason for people to come to your shop. If you think of all the big names that have disappeared such as BHS, Woolworths, and Debenhams, it’s because they lost their reason to exist.

It’s very important to give the customer a reason to cross your threshold. At Ryman, we’ve always managed to do that. And every 10 years or so, we do something extra to drive more people to our shops.

Recently, we launched a combined integrated online and in-store loyalty scheme. Next, we launched three concept stores called Ryman Design. The fourth opened in May in Edinburgh and two more are opening in the next few months. Historically, Ryman has been a ‘business’ stationer, even though we’ve moved a long way in the past few years. These latest ones are more modern stores, which are fashion-led.

Then we launched an app. This is very new to us. It’s a way of linking technology with a physical high street presence - and it’s a reason for

customers to interact with us (online or through their phone) and then visit a store.

On the app, you can create a personalised greeting card (like you can from other online players) but the difference is you will have it in 60 minutes. So if you’re on the train or bus and you need a personalised card, you create it on the app, hit order and collect your design in-store from 190 locations across the UK. Or you go instore and have it done while you wait. All for £2.99.

And another version allows you to access the full raft of printing services that Ryman has in-store. So if you’re a student looking to get a project printed out, you order online and pick it up. We’re linking modern technology with good old-fashioned service-driven physical retail.

''Independents are great. They keep us on our toes, and are more innovative than we can ever be''

On new start-ups

Independents are great. They keep us on our toes, and are more innovative than we can ever be. Yes, we might have a bigger cheque book, but it takes us longer to do stuff as we’re more structured. I like going into an independent stationer because I see so many different things. We’ve co-existed for 130 years, and we’ll continue to do so.

Stationery is an excellent sector with some amazing brands. I’ve been in it for a long time and I love it. If you’re thinking of launching a small business, I’m going to give you the same advice I give myself: what is your reason to exist? What are you going to do differently? What will you have in your store in your chosen area (whether town centre or online) that will give someone a reason to cross your [physical or virtual] threshold?

You’ve got to have those conversations. And believe you me, there’s no substitute for hard work, passion, and honesty when you’re running your own business. If you’ve got all of those, I would go for it, big time!

We all make mistakes and we shouldn’t be scared of them. As long as the decisions we make are

calculated, if we get it wrong we can identify it quickly, suck it up, and move on. Don’t flog a dead horse; that’s pointless.

I’ll make a shameless plug here for Small Business Sunday [shortened to #SBS on social media]. You can enter every Sunday [between 5-7pm] on X and Instagram. I started it 13 years ago and it’s grown to 4,000 small businesses. And here’s a statistic you may like: 75% of the small businesses are run by females - and we have amazing partners within the network that give great support which you can tap into.

On stationery trends

I can only go by the trends that I see in my own business. Ryman was very much a boring old stationer when we bought it. Yes, we did back-to-school and that was big for us. But really, we weren’t so interested in the consumer.

In the past few years, we’ve been far more interested in fashion stationery. And why is that? Well, Covid really did accelerate the merging of home and office. Lots of people started working remotely and, quite honestly, they didn’t want boring stationery. They didn’t want just black or grey books.They wanted fashion-led bits and pieces that they were happy to have in their house.

There’s a more relaxed attitude in working practices. A lot of workplaces let their staff buy their own stationery now - they don’t have stationery cupboards and instead say ‘buy your own’.

So we’re moving very much towards more fashion-oriented consumer product, which is far more acceptable in the workplace. That doesn’t mean contract stationery will disappear, but it will certainly get smaller.

On business rates reform

In what way should business rates be reformed? The first thing I’d like to do is get Guy Fawkes on them! Set fire to them, destroy them, get rid of them! They were designed in the 1500s… they’re not fit for purpose. We need a level playing field. We’ve got to find a way of designing something that collects more tax for the Exchequer and puts the burden evenly across online. I don’t believe physical retail should be victimised and practically put out of business due to a tax that politicians are too lazy and incompetent to deal with.

This is an edited version of a keynote talk given by Theo Paphitis during the London Stationery Show, which was held on May 14 and May 15 at the Business Design Centre in London. The event returns to the same venue on May 13 and May 14 2025. Visit: www.stationeryshowlondon.co.uk

At home in Harrogate

Home & Gift will showcase hundreds of top brands across a new, expanded footprint, hosting 10% more exhibitors than 2023

Visitors will find a show of two halves, with Halls A, B, C and M of the Convention Centre packed to the rafters with sectors including Gift and Home, Jewellery and Fashion, and Food Emporium. Buyers will also benefit from an updated layout in the hotel grounds for the Design Points, where they can explore Design-led Gift and Home.

With the expanded show footprint, this year’s visitors will be treated to the biggest and best exhibitor line-up in years, with hundreds of new and returning brands to choose from; over 40% of the 2024 exhibitors weren’t present in 2023, and 32% of them are making their show debut, ensuring that there’s newness at every turn!

Notable brands returning to the event after a number of years absent include the likes of Aery, Belly Button Designs, Elizabeth Scarlett, Gifted Wholesale, Half Moon Bay, Jackie Brazil, La De Da Living, Price’s Patent Candles, and Upper Canada.

Home & Gift has also added more than 150 new suppliers to the event this year, including the likes of Allied Imports, Arnold Willis & Co, ASOBU, Bothy Threads, Cadenza Italy, Jardinopia, Robinvalley, Soctopus, The Little Dog Laughed and Trampoline.

Vanessa Curry, MD, Best Kept Secrets, commented: “The atmosphere at Harrogate is always exhilarating, and this year it’s even more special after our recent award win. We’ve seen remarkable demand across all our ranges, particularly the Just Because collection, which continues to captivate with its blend of personalisation and quality.’’

Well-known for its networking opportunities, Home & Gift 2024 is set to o er a range of social gatherings and facilitate connections away from the show floor;. Sunday evening kicks o with the show’s Sundowner Drinks, where The Giftware Association will be announcing the winner of the People’s Choice category of the Gift of the Year Awards. Monday and Tuesday also see visitors and exhibitors alike enjoy the Drinks on the Lawn outside the Design Points, and Monday is of course the night of the famous Show Party in town.

As the industry’s favourite summer show, Home & Gift is a must-visit for any retailer looking to get ahead in advance of the crucial Golden Quarter.

What: Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival

When: July 21-24

Where: The Harrogate Convention Centre, King’s Road, Harrogate, North Yorkshire HG1 5LA Web: https://homeandgift.co.uk

Exhibitor comment

What do you enjoy about the show?

Home & Gift has a unique and relaxed atmosphere, unlike any other trade show. The sunny weather often adds to the cheerful mood, making it a delightful event for everyone. Last year was my first time exhibiting at Harrogate Home & Gift, and it was also my debut trade show. It was an ideal start, setting a positive tone for my trade show journey. Any tips for newbie visitors - how to tackle those aisles, best places to eat etc.?

Take the time to explore the diverse range of products on display. Home & Gift stands out because it doesn’t confine itself to specific sectors like greetings or stationery. This openness means you might discover unexpected gems. While in Harrogate, make sure to visit Betty’s Tea Roomsit’s a delightful experience you won’t regret!

What’s your most memorable story/experience from previous shows?

My first trade show experience last year at Harrogate Home & Gift was incredibly memorable. I secured my first nine amazing stockists and met some fantastic people who have since become dear friends. The supportive community and positive interactions made it a standout experience, and I can’t wait to reunite with everyone this summer.

What one product or range should greeting card shops check out at the show?

Given the popularity of my recent product launches, greeting card shops should definitely check out a few key ranges. The Adult Birthday Stripes range, Exam Congratulations Stars range, and my Floral Illustrated birthday and blank ranges have all received excellent feedback. Many of my new stockists have included at least one of these ranges in their o erings, making them must-see collections at the show.

Grace Jackson Grace Jackson Design Stand DP1-A19

What do you enjoy about the show?

Harrogate is one of our favourite shows and much less pressured than other exhibitions. The time of year and location really help to make the whole event enjoyable, with relaxed customers and a super atmosphere.

Any tips for newbie visitors - how to tackle those aisles, best places to eat etc?

Always wear comfortable shoes, start at one end and walk every aisle – you never know, the very best line of the show could be just around the corner. Important halls we’ll often walk twice, starting from the opposite end. You’ll be surprised at what you see second time around. Another top tip is to ask suppliers what their best lines are; you’ll nearly always get a good steer. Harrogate is also full of super restaurants; one of our favourites is Stuzzi, a great little Italian, but be sure to book.

Any show o ers we can tell our readers about?

We’ll have a special o er on our snoozies that will end with the show. What one product or range should greeting cards retailers check out at the show?

With more than 2,000 lines making their debut on the Joe Davies stand there’s so much to see. For greeting card shops we have three lines that would be hard to separate. Heartfelt Art is performing and repeating very well, Equilibrium Sentiment Jewellery is a firm favourite, and Rush Designs is a hit across occasion products.

Paul Hooker, MD, Joe Davies Stand B-A02

A vast array to choose from

Joe Davies o ers gifts galore for show visitors to explore

Stand B-A02

Harrogate Home and Gift is always a highly anticipated event in the giftware calendar, and the Joe Davies team is thrilled to present its latest collections to both loyal and new customers. The expansive stand o ers an array of new ranges, including home décor, celebration gifts, jewellery and fashion accessories. There’s a lot to look forward to on this vibrant, busy stand.

The Village Pottery Collection has remained a standout bestselling range for some time and is a consistent favourite of both retailers and customers alike. Get ready for an extensive Village Pottery showcase where all the well-loved designs, together with many new additions, including pretty new garden houses featuring cute window boxes and bunting, new croft houses and a new giant-sized teapot house which is sure to create a stir, will all make their debut.  The Village Pottery Collection is renowned for its distinctive rustic charm and handcrafted look… with all the new additions you really will be spoilt for choice!

Snoozies!…cosy little foot coverings have been one of Joe Davies’ best-selling ranges for more than 12 years with well over 2 million pairs sold. Lined with cosy sherpa fleece lining and featuring non-slip soles, snoozies! provide unparalleled warmth and comfort, making them perfect for the colder months. Lots of Dots snoozies! are a firm favourite  with customers and the new Dottie Mules slip on snoozies! o er a stylish twist to traditional slip-on designs and feature the same popular dots but with the addition of a cute dottie bow. Furry Foot Pals snoozies! will also make their debut; adorable cat, mouse, dog and piggy designs will be available in both kids and ladies sizes and o er the ultimate in cute comfort.  In order to maximise your sales there is an attractive FREE snoozies! spinner available with any order of 144 pairs. The Equilibrium Collection from Joe Davies will o er no fewer than four new ranges for Autumn/Winter 2024, ensuring there will be lots to get excited about.  While clear crystals have always been a popular choice for the party season, one of the latest jewellery trends encourages the use of vibrantly coloured crystals; from

deep blues and bold reds to soft pinks and vivid greens.  These rich colours not only add a touch of vibrancy to your jewellery box but also allow you to create a truly personalised look. The stylish new Equilibrium Glam Rox Collection provides the perfect way to jazz up a monochrome outfit. This playful new range of necklaces, bracelets and earrings o ers a welcome pop of colour. Equilibrium fashion accessories are a real must for Autumn/Winter and include many of Joe Davies’ hottest-selling lines for the Winter season including the Equilibrium-branded range of gift-boxed scarves and gloves. As the cold weather approaches, our thoughts turn to how to keep ourselves warm, yet still look fashionable, and the vast Equilibrium fashion accessories collection allows you to do both with style! Fabulous pom-pom, hats, furry bucket hats and modern berets o er a warm stylish solution to winter headwear woes.  Add to this a new range of luxury faux fur ear mu s and ear warmer headbands and you really will be dressed to impress! Scarves and gloves are a winter wardrobe staple and there’s a huge number of new styles to choose from including fingerless gloves, fun, quirky gloves, gloves with embellishments, faux leather and faux suede gloves and much, much more. Scarves are available in a variety of thicknesses and fabrics and with adornments including foil, diamantes and pearls. Many Equilibrium scarves and gloves are gift boxed, so make perfect Christmas gifts. If it’s a gift for a special occasion you are looking for then look no further than this new collection of modern celebration photo frames. Available in wedding, engagement, christening and anniversary captions, these contemporary 4x6 and 6x4 photo frames feature 3D wording and icons and o er the perfect gift solution for those extra special events.

Joe Davies 0161 975 6300

sales@joedavies.co.uk www.joedavies.co.uk

HOME & GIFT

Bottles, blossom and more…

Stand DP1 – C57

Alljoy Design is exhibiting at Harrogate Home and Gift, on Stand DP1 – C57 and will be introducing new designs from its award-winning Message in a Bottle range. Also on show will be new images from the Blossoms laser cut range plus all of the everyday ranges. In addition the stand will be showcasing the Christmas ranges, with a host of new designs for 2024.

Alljoy Design info@alljoydesign.com www.alljoydesign.com

Enticing new fragrances

Stand A16

Best Kept Secrets, the award-winning British home fragrance brand, is gearing up for a standout show at Harrogate Home & Gift. Celebrating its recent win in the home fragrance category at the Gift of the Year Awards 2024 for the Just Because Three Lite Boxes, the brand is poised to impress with the latest product and fragrance launches.

Following the successful Spring Fair launch of the Luminescence Collection, featuring luxurious vessel designs that epitomise a ordable luxury, the brand will be launching five enticing new fragrances in Harrogate: Marshmallow and Green Pistachio, Sugared Violets and Vanilla, Soft Linen and Eucalyptus, Madagascan Vanilla, Salted Caramel, and Something Rouge. These fragrance additions enrich their vibrant array of home fragrance solutions, promising something for every taste and occasion.

At the heart of the Harrogate showcase will be the renowned Just Because and Our Fragrant World collections, both finalists in multiple categories at the recent Gift of the Year Awards. New to Harrogate will be an expansion of the Just Because collection, with the Just Because wax melt cards, o ering eight large or 16 smaller wax melts cubes across all range titles. This launch is set to resonate with greeting

cards retailers seeking to personalise gifts with sentiment and a ordability, all under the coveted £10 price point.

For greeting card retailers, Best Kept Secrets is the perfect partner, aligning occasion-focused products with an attractive price point under £10. Its commitment to sustainability through eco-conscious materials and ethical production processes ensures retailers can confidently o er products that resonate with today’s conscientious consumers.

Looking ahead to trends for the second half of 2024, Best Kept Secrets anticipates a focus on quality gifting under £10. The dedication to a ordability, without compromising on craftsmanship or sustainability, remains steadfast. The brand’s ongoing innovation ensures it continues to exceed expectations, making the stand a must-visit at Harrogate Home & Gift. Best Kept Secrets sales@bestkeptsecrets.co.uk www.bestkeptsecrets.co.uk

Grace returns to Harrogate

Stand DP1-A19

Grace Jackson Design is thrilled to be heading back to Harrogate Home & Gift for her second time at the show where her trade show journey began. Having just launched more than 50 new cards at PG Live last month, she and husband Tom are looking forward to showing o these new designs further north. Featuring bold birthday milestones and delicate illustrations, which are printed on premium FSC certified board and finished with Grace’s signature hot foil technique. Expanding her diverse portfolio of everyday designs, Grace is launching a range of foiled Christmas cards, several of which feature lovely labradors and glistening bauble designs. Grace Jackson Design is celebrated for its commitment to high-quality, handfinished elements. Each card is meticulously crafted using a hot-foil machine, ensuring the perfect impression and foil coverage. This dedication to craftsmanship is evident in the new collections, where every design is enhanced with luxurious

hot foil finishes, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication.

Sustainability remains a core value for Grace Jackson Design. All products are printed in the UK on premium, FSC certified card stock, reflecting Grace’s commitment to environmentally responsible practices as well as all foil being compostable and repulpable for recycling purposes. By prioritising sustainable materials and production methods, Grace Jackson Design continues to o er products that are both beautiful and eco-friendly.

With her sophisticated new collections showcasing Grace’s passion for patterns, hues, and delicate touches and unwavering commitment to quality and sustainability, it would be worthwhile visiting Grace Jackson Design on stand DP1-A19 at Home & Gift to experience these stunning new products firsthand and discover the artistry behind each meticulously crafted piece.

Grace Jackson Design 07902875014 | hello@gracejacksondesign.co.uk | www.gjdesignwholesale.co.uk

Connecting with a chuckle!

Jo Denning, artist/designer/owner of Lovely Paper Stu , talks to Greetings Today about the publisher and its card ranges

Stand DP4-29

Tell us about Lovely Paper Stu .

In 2008 I had just moved to Zurich, Switzerland from the UK with my husband’s job. While I was enjoying the beautiful surroundings and picking up lots of inspiration for my art, I felt a little lonely and disconnected in unfamiliar surroundings - plus my German was a little rusty from my school days! It was then I felt a desire to start working on some greeting card ideas to send to family and friends back home, in a bid to feel closer to them. I realised the importance of connections, and how greeting cards can be used as a tool to nurture relationships. I had an abundance of plans, but we welcomed two children while living over there, and things became suddenly very hectic. It was only after moving back to the UK and after the birth of our third (and definitely final!) baby that it wasn’t long before the country was hit with lockdowns, and it suddenly occurred to me that I needed to start creating again – so I could help connect people and shove a little chuckle through their letterboxes!

Tell us about your cards.

Lovely Paper Stu aims to bring a mass of colour to the market! There are so many beautiful white-based animal cards on the market and while our cards aren’t exclusively animal cards - we still felt there was a gap on the shelves, which we felt we could fill with our funny, punny cards and their spectrum of contrasting colours. Our cards contrast from back to front, inside to out - along with a bright envelopethey really stand out.

We have lots of new cards being launched at Harrogate Home & Gift, and a new range, which we are very excited to showcase. The range is more sentimental, and ‘wholesome’ for want of a better word. We have a variety of age cards, including

teens, and some beautiful contrasting colours.

What are your bestselling ranges?

Our Cool as Duck is currently our only, but expanding range, which we recently showcased at PG Live. The range was extremely well received at the show, and we gained a lot of new stockists, most of whom we found giggling away to themselves as they were browsing! We also gave a sneak preview of our new range, which created a lot of interest.

What about eco-friendly credentials?

All our cards are printed on FSC certified board, which is fully recyclable, and come with a recyclable envelope and eco clasp. All the cards are printed and designed here in the UK.

Lovely Paper Stu 07786 886223

wholesale@lovelypaperstuff.com www.lovelypaperstuff.com

dp 1- a19

harr ogat e h ome home & gif t 21 st – 24 th ju Ly 20 24

New looks galore

Stand DPI C5

The Art File team is thrilled to be launching its Autumn/Winter 2024 collection at Harrogate Home & Gift. With more than 130 new designs to choose from, including five new ranges and 24 extensions, there’s so much to see in this stunning collection.

Two notable new card collections include Tale & Ivy and Zig Zag Zoo. Tale and Ivy is a whimsical collection featuring small woodland animals and botanicals. Created by one of our talented designers, Millie, every design is printed on premium board, finished with elegant gold foil and comes with a lovely ivory envelope.

Zig Zag Zoo is an adorable children’s card collection containing 12 brilliant designs. Every card features a pair of geometric animals in pastel colours, with six designs available as age cards, too. Printed on a textured board, and finished with die-cut and Spot UV, this playful collection is a must-have for this year.

Other standout releases include new designs across bestselling cards ranges, new looks in gift bags, wrap and new stationery.

The Art File will be showcasing its Christmas 2024 collection, which has been curated to make festive gift-giving even more magical. With more than 170 new designs, from a range of charity cards to a selection of luxurious boxed cards and hand-folded 3D pop-ups, there’s something for everyone in this stunning collection.

Finally, The Art File is pleased to display Spring Seasons 2025 for those who want to plan ahead for next year. This collection includes more than 70 new designs across all the major Spring events for 2025.

Warm and fuzzy…

Stand B-A21

Warmies, known for its microwavable soft toys and wellness products, continues to enchant both children and adults with its delightful and whimsical soft toys.

Each Warmies product is a sensory delight, infused with real dried lavender sourced from the picturesque fields of Provence, France, and filled with allnatural grains. This unique combination ensures that every Warmie delivers a perfect blend of softness, comforting weight, and therapeutic warmth. The gentle pressure of a Warmie is much like a weighted blanket, o ering a sense of security and calm that helps alleviate anxiety symptoms. Additionally, the long-lasting warmth of Warmies can help to relieve stress, aches, and pains, making them an essential wellness companion.

Warmies are more than just adorable soft toys; they are heartwarming gifts that cater to all ages. From snuggly microwavable plushies to luxurious slippers, each Warmies creation fuses comfort and joy.

This season, Warmies unveils an exciting range of new designs that are sure to captivate and delight. Sports enthusiasts will love the new sportsthemed soft toys, including the Warmies Football and Tennis Ball, while food lovers will be charmed by the culinary-themed Warmies Grilled Cheese and Pink Donut. These huggable friends cater to a variety of tastes, ensuring there’s a Warmie for everyone.

Warmies products are not only designed for warmth but can also be cooled, making them ideal companions for all seasons.

Warmies

01933 679 777

sales@warmies.co.uk | www.warmies.co.uk

Crafting with a conscience

Grace Jackson Design is well known for intricate patterns, delicate illustrations and luxurious hot-foil finishes…

Grace Jackson Design is making waves in the world of greeting cards with its exquisite designs and steadfast dedication to both quality and sustainability.

Founded by Grace Jackson in Autumn 2019, this Cambridgeshire-based brand has rapidly gained recognition for its intricate patterns, delicate illustrations, and luxury products.

Grace Jackson Design is celebrated for its meticulous craftsmanship. Each card is carefully produced using a hot-foil machine, ensuring perfect impressions and luxurious finishes. This attention to detail is evident in every piece it creates, from greeting cards to gift wraps and notebooks.

Sustainability is a core value. All products are printed in the UK on FSC-certified card stock, and the foil used is both compostable and repulpable, aligning with eco-friendly practices. Grace’s dedication to using sustainable materials and production methods ensures that her beautiful creations are also kind to the environment.

successful career, combining her extensive experience in magazine publishing and graphic design. In April 2023, Grace took a significant step by expanding her business to wholesale, solidifying her brand’s presence in the market.

One of the significant milestones for Grace Jackson Design was receiving a Sunshine Ticket from Sincerely Yours and a Golden Ticket from Postmark at PG Live last month. These accolades highlight the brand’s creativity and quality, affirming Grace’s vision and hard work. The recognition not only boosted the brand’s visibility but also validated Grace’s commitment to excellence.

Looking back, Grace’s journey from a hobbyist to a successful business owner has been marked by dedication and perseverance. Her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs? ‘’Embrace the journey, be patient with the process, and stay organised. The transition from a passion project to a full-fledged business comes with challenges, but with a supportive network and a commitment to learning, success is achievable.’’

‘‘Each card is carefully produced using a hot-foil machine, ensuring perfect impressions and luxurious finishes’’

Grace’s journey into the card design industry began in her childhood, where she found joy in crafting cards for friends and family. This early passion evolved into a

Grace Jackson Design is not just about creating beautiful products; it’s about crafting with a conscience. By prioritising sustainability and quality, Grace Jackson has built a brand that stands out in the competitive world of greeting cards. Her passion for design and unwavering commitment to eco-friendly practices ensure that Grace Jackson Design will continue to delight and inspire customers for years to come.

At Harrogate Home & Gift, Grace Jackson Design is set to impress with its latest collections. Among the new offerings are foiled Christmas cards, featuring charming labradors and glistening bauble designs, alongside a diverse range of greeting cards adorned with Grace’s signature hot foil technique. These new collections exemplify the brand’s blend of artistic elegance and festive charm. Home & Gift also

provides a collaborative platform for Grace to connect with fellow designers and meet new buyers who share a passion for beautifully crafted stationery.

Visit Grace Jackson Design at stand DP1-A19 at the Harrogate Home & Gift show to experience these stunning new collections firsthand and discover the artistry behind each meticulously crafted piece.

Grace Jackson Design 07902875014

Grace Jackson Design introduces the New Paw-rents greeting card range, perfect for celebrating new pet owners. This charming collection features four cards in Mustard, Teal, Navy, and Grey, each designed to congratulate recipients on adding a four-legged friend to their family. With Grace Jackson’s signature style, these cards combine intricate illustrations and luxurious hot foil finishes, ensuring each card is a delightful keepsake.

Printed on premium FSC-certified card stock, these cards reflect the brand’s commitment to quality and sustainability. The hot foil technique adds an elegant touch, making the cards stand out while being eco-friendly with compostable and repulpable foil. The New Paw-rents range captures the joy and excitement of welcoming a new pet, o ering a thoughtful and beautifully crafted way to share in this special moment. Celebrate new beginnings with Grace Jackson Design’s exquisite and eco-conscious greeting cards.

07902875014 hello@gracejacksondesign.co.uk | www.gjdesignwholesale.co.uk

Pet cards Looking For... Grace Jackson Design

Several retailers have told Greetings

Today that they struggle to find pet cards - especially from and to pets. Here’s a selection that might help them out…

Alljoy Design

The Wobbly Heads card range features animal favourites such as Dogs, Rabbits and Giant Panda etc (not to mention the delightful Monster) and with their wobbly head and googly eyes are guaranteed to bring a smile to kids of all ages. Alljoy Design also o ers a wide range of animal cards in 3D pop-up, from cats and dogs to sheep and even Highland cattle! Call at Stand DP1-C5 at Harrogate Home & Gift to check out these fabulous cards. info@alljoydesign.com www.alljoydesign.com

Danilo

The bond between pets and their owners is undeniable, and it’s no surprise that this special connection has inspired a heartwarming trend in the greeting card industry. Pet-themed cards are capturing hearts everywhere, celebrating the joy, love, and laughter that our furry friends bring into our lives.

At Danilo, the team understand the deep a ection people have for their pets, and are thrilled to unveil their latest creations that pay homage to these beloved companions.

As the seasons unfold, they’ve tailored their pet-themed collections to suit various occasions, including Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, and Father’s Day. Whether it’s a purr-fect card from the cat or a wag-tastic greeting from the dog, their cards add a personalised touch to special celebrations, making them even more memorable. With personalised card designs also available, it even means that specific pet names can be added to the cards, too.

01992 702 900 sales@danilo.com www.danilo.com

Celebrate best-selling cards

Pet cards Looking For...

Out of the Blue Studios

As part of its Everyday in-stock range, Out of the Blue offers Happy Birthday cards from your furry friends, from the dog and from the cat. Following the success of these, the card publisher introduced Christmas Cards, ‘to and from’ the cat or dog, and they have proved really popular. www.outofthebluedirect.co.uk www.outofthebluestudios.co.uk

Meraki

This card from Meraki’s Hey Dude range is perfect for all the dog dads out there. The funny pun and cute design are sure to catch his attention, no matter what the occasion. A great way to let him know that even the dog appreciates him. 020 784 02662 info@merakigreetingcards.co.uk merakicards.co.uk

Heather Trefusis Art

Happy Tails is the latest range from Heather Trefusis Art. These joyful, hand painted animal cards cover birthdays and congratulations across 11 new designs. The 150mm square cards are printed on 300gsm beautifully textured FSC-certified board, and supplied with a kraft envelope. Available nested or wrapped in biodegradeable cellos. 07946 605564

heather@heathertrefusisart.com www.heathertrefusisart.com

Kali Stileman Publishing

Kali Stileman Publishing has adorable new animal occasions cards galore. These gorgeous greeting cards feature perfectly party-ready pets from a pair of cuddly cats ‘bigs hugs’ to a scruffy dog for ‘happy retirement!’. 01305 848899

info@kalistileman.co.uk www.kalistileman.co.uk

Laura Darrington Design

Birthday card design used to be an easy-gig, says Laura Darrington. Candles, cake, balloons…the big three.

…enter stage left: Cats & Dogs.

With a concerted effort to produce beautiful feline and canine inspired designs as part of its square card range, the Aurora Collection - these designs from Laura Darrington have really flown.

Merry Christmas from the dog/cat has seen a real surge in popularity these past couple of years - truly rubber-stamping who the real favourite is in most households.

Also new for 2024 is Laura Darrington’s very first animal-specific range, the Kingdom Collection. www.lauradarrington.com

Always evolving…

Alljoy Design’s original 3D pop-up cards are constantly evolving with new designs in the award-winning ranges, and they will be on show at Harrogate Home & Gift. The designs o er a card with more, helping to capture the essence of that special moment. From birthdays to kids ages, and thinking of you to everyday celebrations, these 3D pop-up cards are the perfect addition to your card ranges.

Alljoy Design info@alljoydesign.com www.alljoydesign.com

Precious memories

A recent space-saving life hack to store beloved cards from weddings, births and other special occasions, is to use a ringbound folder, so your memories are easily accessible for those afternoon trips down memory lane. Just pick up and flick through a beautifully organised memory file. This certainly beats them being stored in a dusty shoebox under the bed!

Nostalgia continues to influence Cherry Orchard’s new range Moments Of Wonder with endearing, thoughtful words and special titles alongside beautifully sketched illustrations and soft pastel colours, finished with delicate foil. There are more than 30 cards in the range covering birth of and special relation juvenile birthdays.

The Down Memory Lane Range is also something special and perfect for memories. There are 28 milestone birthday designs plus five anniversary designs in the range.

This best-selling range has enormous shelf appeal, with images from the year that the card receiver was born, and contains many interesting facts inside, making it a keepsake.

If you’re looking for nostalgia, the Cherry Orchard extensive portfolio, specialising in cards with sentimental value, has you covered with a full range of occasions cards.

Cherry Orchard Publishing 01684 295500

info@cherryorchardpublishing.co.uk www.cherryorchardpublishing.co.uk

Keep it special

Cards that recipients will want to treasure forever…

On top Form

Here’s The Art File’s Form, from its bestselling pop-up card collection. Form is a multiaward-winning series of popup cards. Elod Beregszaszi, who created these forms, is a leading fold designer and The Art File team has been thrilled to work with him for many years. The Form collection contains 36 unique designs, displaying fun and innovative 3D layered scenes perfect for birthdays everywhere. Form is printed on textured board and is finished with die-cut, cold foil, with every design being hand-folded in the UK.

Visit The Art File at Harrogate Home & Gift to see the Form card collection in person.

Character building…

The Mandalorian has been a hugely successful show and UK Greetings wanted to create a pop-up keepsake card that showcased multiple aspects of it. A die-cut foil before print Mandalorian helmet opens up to reveal a three-dimensional action scene including the Grogu!

Meanwhile, the new Avengers pop-up features the new Captain America, Sam Wilson. Clever use of die-cut teases the inclusion of the pop-up elements contained within and as the card is opened Cap takes to the skies in his new winged suit in spectacular 3D fashion.

For fans of Arendelle, new novelty designs feature cute kawaii versions of the Frozen sisters, and a 3D model of Elsa that can be assembled from the punch-out pieces included in the card.

Finally, there are two new additions to the Disney Lenticular range - Spider-Man and Princess - which feature stunning 3D lenticular scenes that can be removed from the cards and kept as keepsakes. The lenticulars have been specifically designed to fit most 4 x 6in photo frames so they can double up as wall art.

UK Greetings

salesandservice@ukgreetings.co.uk

The wrap pack

Gift wrap & bags make an easy add to basket spend. Here’s a selection of styles to suit all occasions…

Better by design

The Art File gift bag and wrap collections contain more than 93 stunning designs perfect for every occasion. Choose between 25 di erent designs in the gift bag collection, with three new looks to choose from, launching at Home & Gift exclusively.

The Art File roll and flat wrap collections feature striking designs created by the talented in-house team, with six new looks launching with The Art File Autumn/ Winter 2024 collection.

Looking for a more luxury look for your gifts? Browse The Art File luxury gift wrap, which features stunning designs finished with pearlised paper. Visit The Art File at Harrogate Home & Gift to see The Art File gift bags and wrap collections in person, along with more than 170 brand-new designs in The Art File Autumn/Winter 2024 Collection. The Art File sales@theartfile.com | www.theartfiletrade.com

A creative flight

In discussions late last year with Angela Harding, the eminent British painter and printmaker, Museums & Galleries (M&G) learned of her long-standing wish to produce a range of gift wraps and gift packaging.

This presented a creative challenge as usually repeat patterns tend to suit the product better – however Angela and Stu Harris, M&G’s head of design, collaborated closely to weave elements from Angela’s works into Swallows and Sea, one of M&G’s most popular new gift wrap releases this year.

Stu explains the process for Greetings Today: “For the Swallows and Sea pattern, we created a fairly abstract background using some of Angela’s signature mark making, which has a lovely undulating, wavy quality. We then overlaid this with a striking pattern of swooping birds in flight. The result is a wonderful organic and flowing design, which works perfectly on gift packaging and cotton textiles.

“I’ve been a fan of Angela and her work for many years, so to have the opportunity to work with her was a bit of a dream come true.

“Her signature linocut style and muted colour palette is so distinctive, and her work full of lovely little details, which e ortlessly capture the essence of British wildlife and landscape.”

M&G previewed new insulated bottles, mugs, and cotton products featuring this design at the Exclusively show in June – due for release in the early autumn, together with gift tissue, gift bags, and roll wrap.

Museums & Galleries 01373 462165 sales@mgml.co.uk www.museumsgalleries.co.uk

Marble-ous collection

Introducing Joe Davies’ new additions to the gift bag, wrapping paper and tissue range. Expanding on the popular Ombre collection, there are new colourways - white & silver, and red & gold - great for everyday and Christmas. The blue marble bags have been a huge success and are now available in pink! There are new floral bags in lovely pinks and bold sunflowers. Also, a classic blue Chevron range and beer motifs collection for the men.

In roll wrap, there’s a new mix of florals in butterflies. For tissue, find baby tone packs in pink and blue as well as a larger multicoloured pack that covers any occasion.

See the complete collection of gift bags and wrap on the spacious stand at Home & Gift B-A02. Ordering from Joe Davies’ extensive gift and jewellery collections is really easy with its little & often ordering system and low minimum order of just £100 with free nationwide delivery.

Joe Davies

0161 975 6300

sales@joedavies.co.uk | www.joedavies.co.uk

Animal magic!

More animals! It’s what Earlybird’s customers have demanded, so after the phenomenal success of its first animal giftwrap earlier this year, the company has just launched a second design featuring rainbow-coloured animals and sea creatures (pictured top left).

The design is a collaboration with Emma Jayne, an artist who has worked with big brand names such as H&M. Emma’s surface pattern designs, which feature kitsch animals and whimsical elements of nature, have transferred seamlessly to Earlybird’s gift wrap design.

“We sell a lot of wrap, it’s a really good tag onto orders, especially when it matches the card designs. We sold out of the first animal wrap really early!” says Dom Early, main artist and creative mastermind behind all things Earlybird. “I think the rainbow animals is the best design we have ever produced. And early indications are showing our customers love it too. You can’t help but smile when you see presents wrapped in these designs.”

Earlybird Designs 01227765372

dom@earlybirddesigns.co.uk www.earlybirddesigns.co.uk

Elegant and eco-friendly

Grace Jackson Design’s gift wraps combine elegant design with eco-friendly practices.

The Swishes range and the Imperial Gift Wrap range are printed on heavyweight 120gsm uncoated paper, known for its durability and premium feel. This paper is fully recyclable, making it an excellent choice for environmentally-conscious consumers.

The Swishes range is a bright and bold collection featuring graphic patterns in 10 vibrant colourways - perfect for those who love to make a statement with their gift wrapping. In contrast, the Imperial Gift Wrap range is inspired by Grace’s mother’s vintage enamel brooches and mirror compacts, treasured items from her jewellery box, and features nine variants of intricate illustrations that exude a timeless charm and sophistication.

Grace Jackson Design 07902 875014

hello@gracejacksondesign.co.uk www.gjdesignwholesale.co.uk

Retro style wrap

UK Greetings’ fantastic Essentials range offers something for everyone, with its fun retro graphic style! The use of complementary colourways and pattern placements ensures this range sits well together on rack, all the while catching the customers’ eyes with its standout designs. Designs in the Essentials range are available in various bag sizes, including medium, large and bottle, 1.5m roll wraps and packaged wraps with tags. Plus, new for 2024two Essentials gift packs. Consisting of either three bottle bags or three large gift bags they are perfect for keeping in the cupboard for those lastminute celebrations!

As part of Out of the Blue Studios’ Everyday In-Stock range, there’s the Acquire Quality Giftwrap collection. These 50 stunning designs use the latest themes and trends, printed on premium-quality FSC paper available in quires of 24 sheets (50cm x 70cm). Each wrap design has a specially selected Pantone coloured matching tag available in a pack of 12. Also, 24 of the designs are available as a ‘2 Sheets/2 Tag’ selling pack, which can be displayed using the eurohook. All available in packs of six.

A feast for the eyes

Gift wrap specialist Glick o ers retailers a host of new designs, including spring 2025 ranges

2024 has seen the launch of Glick’s new licence, the award-winning Stephanie Davies. Stephanie’s Every Day collection includes The Butterfly Collective Part 1 and Part 2, an exquisite study of hand-painted butterflies, moths and dragonflies like a feast of jewels for the eyes; The Olive Grove, which encapsulates the Mediterranean vibe of the time-honour olives trees adorned with dragonflies and goldfinches in soothing, nature-inspired shades; and Queen Bee, a celebration of the symbolic, life-a rming bee with a foil finish, all captured as still life for Glick’s highest quality gift bags, flat wrap and tissue paper.

The Glick team was incredibly proud to be winner of the highly regarded Henries award for Best Gift Wrap Collection in 2023 with the stunning Louise Mulgrew collection. For 2024 it has the adorable Birthday Penguins and Panda Cuddles alongside the stunning Flower Patch and Flora & Fauna, a collection of hand-painted watercolour delights evocative of walks in wild meadows.

There are four new designs of the ever-popular box nests from best-selling designers Stephanie Dyment and Paper Salad. The vivid and unmistakable design of Paper Salad in the sub-range, Colour Hub, is aptly named Chaos alongside the square nest of 10 boxes in the Pastiche design. Part of the stunning new Linen range from Stephanie Dyment, are the rectangular nest of 12 boxes, and the timeless Meadow designs contrasting and complimenting across a square nest of 10 boxes.

Is it ever too early to talk about Christmas? The Glick team thinks not. Its 2024 collection includes designs from best-selling collaborations with Kate McFarlane, Stephanie Dyment, Paper Salad, and Think of Me. There are also new collaborations with Stephanie Davies, Lumelo & Ginger and Summer Thornton. And some beautiful Christmas classics, too. Christmas designs range from the traditional holly and ivy vibe with Golden Sprigs and Christmas Foliage, to the fun, colour and sweetness of a candy shop with Paper Salad’s Fun Festivities. There’s something for all the family.

The Spring 2025 range is now available to pre-order with stock deliveries in January and April 2025 (whoop whoop!). The range covers Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, Easter, Father’s Day and a Thank You/Congratulations package. (Pre-order via your sales agent or our sales o ce before August 31 to guarantee your chosen design.)

Diary of a sales agent

Richard Pass looks forward to Harrogate Home & Gift and celebrates the opening of a new store…

The summer trade shows are upon us, even if the weather (at least at time of writing) is awful. With PG Live finished (another excellent couple of days), we now all turn to Harrogate Home & Gift. My favourite show of the year. Yes, I am biased because it’s in Harrogate, but it is also the show where greeting cards, gift, stationery, candles, toys, and all things come together under a variety of roofs!

I can’t get away from the fact that Harrogate Home & Gift is also a friendly trade show with exhibitors, retailers etc all coming together to build

business, meet friends, make new friends and generally have a good time. Of course, all of this has a serious purpose; the exhibitors are showcasing their new wares, the retailers hunting for the latest ‘must have’ and all in the glorious sunshine (fingers crossed).

This year the focus appears to be on building business and introducing new. It’s also a time to look at Christmas (yes, I know many of you have already sourced this!) but for the exhibitors it’s a chance to showcase the products. And for the smaller card companies it’s sometimes the first opportunity to show their exciting designs.

Make a date for Harrogate, it really is an exciting trade show.

When a new retailer opens, it’s always a time to celebrate, especially when the economic picture isn’t exactly rosy. So when Laura and Pete increased their shops from two to three I was very excited. They currently own Wild at Heart and Cook & Baker, side by side in Tynemouth. Wild at Heart is a fabulous card, gift, stationery and toy store, while Cook & Baker is a superb deli, trust me when I say they make the most sublime sausage rolls.

They have now opened a new card, gift, and lifestyle store called Grace & Purpose (pictured here) in the busy market town of Hexham. Located on Battle Hill, in the heart of the town, they have already won over local customers. The card o ering

currently includes Alljoy Design, Ginger Betty, Redback Cards, Paper Salad, Molly Mae, English Graphics, Hammond Gower and of course The Art File. Having spoken to Laura, it seems the first couple of days trading have been amazing (despite a non-working card machine on day one!) and the cards are a big hit. Pu ns seem to be in vogue! Here’s to the store’s success - and here’s hoping the weather changes! See you all at Harrogate.

Richard Pass is a sales agent (STL Agency), who covers the North of England except where listed below. The companies he currently represents are: Alljoy Design, The Art File [NW only], Dandelion Stationery, Ginger Betty [Yorks & NE only], Ohh Deer, Redback Cards [Yorks & NE only], Two Little Monkeys and Flametree Publishing Contact: 07790 844342 or richard.pass@yahoo.co.uk

The present moment

A well-selected gift o ering can turn your retail space into a one-stop shop for customers. Here’s a few ideas…

Cuddles for the kids

Rainbow Designs o ers a wonderful collection of beautiful and thoughtful gifts for babies and infants, featuring many of the most-loved classic story time characters. With a prestigious portfolio that includes Peter Rabbit, Guess How Much I Love You and Disney’s Winnie the Pooh, and new for this year, Disney Baby Lion King and Harry Potter Wizarding World collections, Rainbow brings these characters to life, in classic yet contemporary, soft and playful infant toys, brimming with developmental features, to make treasured gifts for babies and newborns, and the perfect additions to the shelves of greeting cards retailers.

The exquisite Peter Rabbit Signature Collection is a beautiful range of forever toys that has been created to be shared across generations. This adorable collection includes soft toys, comforters and ring rattles and features two of the most traditional and much-loved children’s literacy characters, Peter Rabbit and Flopsy Bunny. Joining this popular gifting range this autumn are Signature Peter Rabbit

Gem of an idea

In an era where environmental consciousness is on the rise, the appreciation for handcrafted gemstones is experiencing a notable surge. These beautiful creations are more than mere adornments; they are believed to have spiritual and healing attributes, with each gemstone o ering its unique benefits. This trend, combined with the current enthusiasm for mushrooms, ensures a captivating product. Introducing the Equilibrium Gemstone Mushroom Keyring Collection from Joe Davies (Home and Gift Stand B-A02) – a perfect blend of nature’s elegance and holistic beliefs. These charming keyrings feature attractive gemstone mushrooms and come with a stylish, compact acrylic counter display stand that highlights the properties associated with each gemstone. Priced a ordably at under £5, these practical, yet visually appealing keyrings are poised to drive those crucial till-point impulse sales.

Joe Davies 0161 975 6300

sales@joedavies.co.uk www.joedavies.co.uk

and Flopsy Bunny Gift Sets. The baby soft plush toy and knitted blanket, featuring a white bunny silhouette with a cute bobble tail, come beautifully packaged in an illustrated keepsake box.

The beautiful Disney Classic Pooh Always and Forever range is a collection of truly special Winnie the Pooh soft toys and baby gifts, including gift boxed soft toys, comforters and ring rattles.  Designed with high-quality fabrics and featuring a beautiful bespoke print, these lines have been created with a vision for these adorable toys to be treasured for many years to come - Always and Forever.

Rainbow Designs 01329 227300 sales@rainbowdesigns.co.uk www.rainbowdesigns.co.uk

Perfect pairings

The Art File has launched five new stationery collections this year, which go hand-in-hand with its cards, gift bags and gift wrap ranges. These items are the perfect gifts to pair with cards and include tote bags, A5 notebooks, magnetic list pads, guest books and desk calendars. These new stationery and gift collections feature striking designs created by The Art File in-house designers. Every item contains thoughtful added touches, which elevatesthe design and add a higher-quality finish.

The Art File sales@theartfile.com www.theartfiletrade.com

Designs of note

Grace Jackson Design invites card shop owners into a world of artistic elegance with its newest creation: the Swirl Notebooks. Inspired by museum visits, design movements, and architectural details, these notebooks are a testament to Grace’s passion for historical patterns and intricate designs.

The Swirl Notebooks are crafted with meticulous attention to detail. Available in A5 size with 208 pages, they offer ample space for notes, sketches, and lists. The OTA Bound lay-flat binding ensures convenience, allowing the notebooks to open flat for easy writing or list-making. Numbered pages facilitate organisation, while fountain pen-friendly paper minimises show-through, maintaining the integrity of every entry.

These notebooks cater to practical needs with lined pages featuring tick box options in the margins for to-do lists, along with a date option at the top of each page for easy reference. Available in five vibrant colours, each notebook boasts a 250gsm cover for durability and 100gsm inner pages for a luxurious writing experience.

Grace Jackson Design 07902875014

hello@gracejacksondesign.co.uk | www.gjdesignwholesale.co.uk

Just ideal

Best Kept Secrets offers the ideal gift solution for any occasion with its celebrated Just Because Collection. Featuring scented candles, charming gift boxes, tea lights, reed diffusers, and wax melt cards adorned with its signature colourful and sparkly home fragrances, each product carries meaningful or playful messages tailored for diverse celebrations. This collection’s recent rebrand and expansion underscore Best Kept Secrets’ dedication to offering affordable luxury, catering to both retail and consumer demands with precision.

Particularly favoured by greeting card retailers, the Just Because Collection provides an attractive, budget-friendly option to complement their card ranges. Best Kept Secrets ensures that all its home fragrance products align perfectly with the needs of card shops, offering customers the opportunity to purchase quality, meaningful, and sentimentally-rich gifts for under £10.

MD Vanessa Curry emphasises the company’s commitment: ‘‘We remain dedicated to delivering exceptional quality, affordability, and sustainable practices across our product lines. Our goal is to offer card shops a compelling range that resonates with today’s conscientious consumers seeking both value and sentiment in their gifting choices.”

Best Kept Secrets’ continuous innovation in home fragrance collections ensures it exceeds expectations while maintaining accessible price points under £10. Its eco-conscious choices and ethical production processes further reinforce its position as a preferred partner for card retailers seeking to enhance their gift offerings with heartfelt and affordable options.

Best Kept Secrets

sales@bestkeptsecrets.co.uk | www.bestkeptsecrets.co.uk

Stick ‘em up!

Welcome to Addsquirrel , a concept that merges the charm of traditional greeting cards with the dynamism of modern technology. These QR stickers are designed to enhance the gift-giving experience, making them the perfect till add-on for card shops aiming to offer something extra special to their customers. These smart QR stickers allow customers to upload personal videos, photos, or voice notes, adding an interactive and memorable touch to their cards and gifts. Imagine a birthday card that plays a heartfelt message from a loved one or a wedding card that includes a video of the couple’s first dance. With Addsquirrel, the possibilities are endless, and the emotional impact is profound.

Placed strategically at the till, Addsquirrel ’s Counter Display Units (CDUs) serve as an irresistible impulse buy. Their compact design and eye-catching packaging attract attention, encouraging customers to add them to their purchases easily, giving them a way to make their gifts more personal and meaningful.

The QR stickers appeal to all ages. From tech-savvy millennials to grandparents wanting to send a personal message, the user-friendly nature of Addsquirrel ensures that anyone can use them with ease. Also, the pricing strategy ensures that while customers receive great value, retailers enjoy substantial profits. With a minimum of 61% profit margin, Addsquirrel not only enhances customer experience but also boosts your bottom line. Implementing Addsquirrel in your store is straightforward. The QR stickers are easy to display and come with clear instructions, ensuring your customers understand how to use them. The simple scan-upload-stick process makes personalising gifts a breeze, adding an element of fun and engagement to the shopping experience.

Addsquirrel 07788290610

hello@addsquirrel.com www.addsquirrel.com

A cut above the rest

Linda Maguire, owner of Retas finalist Atticusboo, in the beautiful Peak District spa town of Buxton, explains how hard she works on providing the very best range for her customers…

Can you tell us a little about how you got into greeting card retail?

When my son was born (he’s 22 now) I decided I really needed to find a fulfilling career that would allow me to work and be a mum at the same time. I loved choosing the perfect card and gift for my friends and family and I was quite tenacious at hunting down exactly the right thing for the right person - and I’ve managed to turn that into a career!

And can you tell us a little about the shop?

Our shop is in a beautiful Grade II listed Victorian building that used to house the Buxton Thermal Baths and is next to the stunning Crescent Hotel, which recently reopened after a multi-million pound refurbishment. We are so incredibly lucky to be in

Top 5 sellers

Rosie Made a Thing Redback Cards

Ohh Deer

Five Dollar Shake

Hype

such a beautiful building, right in the heart of the historic old quarter of Buxton. Buxton is a long way from another major town, being exactly halfway between Manchester and Sheffield, and has been largely ignored by many of the larger retailers. This has allowed many smaller independents to thrive here – we are surrounded by some really interesting locally owned businesses – many of which also sell greeting cards, which keeps us on our toes. We attend a lot of trade fairs as we always want to be the first to find the new up-and-coming brands.

You are in a popular tourist town. Does that affect what you stock, and especially your seasonal turnover?

Buxton has had a bit of an explosion of tourists in recent years, especially since the Crescent Hotel reopened, which really shone a spotlight on the town. Of course we have the amazing International Festival and Fringe Festival in July where the town is absolutely full to the brim and has a wonderful vibe. Closely followed by the Gilbert and Sullivan Festival in August. Both of these festivals attract a wide range of people from all parts of the UK and also many international visitors. One of our all-time bestselling cards is from Rifle Paper Co. and features a Mexican Mariachi Band and the words Feliz Cumpleaños – the fact that one of our bestsellers says Happy Birthday in Spanish, gives you a good idea of the type of customer we attract. Having lots of tourists also means that card

ranges have a longer shelf life in terms of the length of time we can sell one particular range before our customers get bored. We have some amazing brands that just sell and sell.

‘‘Instagram has probably become our greatest marketing tool in the past few years’’

How do you source products?

As mentioned previously, we try to go to the best trade fairs so that we’re always ahead of the curve. We also have the really rude habit that I’m sure other card retailers share – if we open a birthday card from someone that we really like, we turn it over to read the back before we look inside to read the message! Such bad manners, but we’re always on the look out for a new fabulous range that we may have overlooked.

What is your selection criteria?

Cards have to be good quality, make us smile or laugh and be just a bit different – we want to try to be a cut above the rest and we work hard to find that certain something that makes a card range stand out. It’s actually quite hard to define what that is but we know it when we find it!

How is trading for you at the moment?

We have been pretty busy and have recovered very well since Covid – considering there is a cost-ofliving crisis, sales have stayed buoyant and we’re very lucky to have a really loyal customer base. When people discover us on a visit to Buxton, they often remember us and come back especially to buy cards. In fact, just today we had a lovely couple in who regularly drive all the way from Holmfirth, West Yorkshire, over an hour away, to top up their card stash. I think if you work hard at creating a really great-quality range of cards, people will stay loyal to you as they know they don’t have to traipse from shop to shop; they are confident they’ll find what they need and they trust your judgement.

Have you noticed any changes in purchasing behaviour when customers come in?

Not at all – in fact we have a range of large cards now that are £7.50 and they fly out. People do love giving cards and if they find one they love, they buy it. Having said that, we make sure that our lower-priced ranges are still the best of that price bracket. Even if you only want to spend a few pounds, you don’t want it to look or feel cheap. Quality is important to us and our customers.

What’s your demographic like?

We do have a creative crowd in Buxton because of the festivals and the Opera House and that probably means they’re more attracted to the kind of cards we buy.

How do you get word out there - do you use social media, local advertising, word of mouth etc?

I think word of mouth is THE best marketing tool and I rarely spend anything on advertising. If someone always gives you the best cards, you’re going to start asking them where they get them from. I do use social media a bit to remind people of upcoming

occasions, I like how flexible it is – we don’t like to bombard people with advertising and push it too hard as there’s a fine line between interesting people and annoying them. Instagram has probably become our greatest marketing tool in the past few years.

‘‘We work hard to find that certain something that makes a card range stand out. It’s actually quite hard to define what that is but we know it when we find it!’’

Have you seen the average cost of your products go up - and if so how have you dealt with it?

Yes prices have been rising – we deal with it by being better, if people are spending more they expect the best.

Have you noticed any trends in the cards people are buying/looking for?

I think like anything in retail, people are looking for something new all the time – humorous cards are more popular than ever – the more depressing the news, the more people need to laugh.

What do you like most about your job?

I love being part of the community – when you sell greeting cards, you really do see people at all the most significant stages of their lives and those of their families. There’s something really special about that – over the years since we have been open,

Retail IntervIew

we’ve seen children become adults and start to have children of their own. All those occasions that we are a tiny part of. It’s a special job.

And what is your least favourite aspect? It always saddens us when people disrespect our shop or the products – and when people shoplift – it’s soul destroying.

Do customers ask for eco-friendly product?

Customers don’t really ask for that – they have started to refuse paper bags more often than not, they only ask for one if they really have to. I completely understand the move away from cellophane but I would probably prefer it if suppliers used biodegradable sleeves rather than none at all as our damaged stock levels are way higher than they used to be since cards became ‘naked’. We also struggle with some brands that don’t have cellophane as where do you stick the price sticker? Certain types of card stock used for cards don’t allow for easy stickering and destickering.

What brands have been particularly popular with your customers?

Rosie Made a Thing and Redback Cards have been our bestsellers by a country mile – these brands sell and sell – they both have such hilarious cards and one of my favourite things is sitting inside on my stool listening to people crying with laughter outside in the corridor where are card stands are.

Five Dollar Shake is still a huge favourite for special occasion cards and their large cards, the most expensive we sell, are particularly popular – they are just exquisite and they feel very special. People can get quite cross if we sell out of the one they want.

Snoopy, Miffy and Moomin are all really popular characters in our shop and so all of the cards we buy from Hype and Roger La Borde (for letterpress Moomin) have a great turnover.

Ohh Deer and Nineteen Seventy Three are great for cutting edge and quirky designs.

Rifle Paper Co. do beautiful quality, slightly quirky cards. Caroline Gardner cards are really lovely quality and well trusted by our customers, especially for occasions.

Is there anything you haven’t been able to source that you would like to find?

More choice of roll wrap, gift tags and gift bags. I

find it much harder to source a good range of these products so we have lots of choice to offer.

Wired ribbons – when we first opened we were easily able to buy 2m lengths of lovely wired ribbons – it’s so incredibly hard to find them these days.

Always men’s cards – they’re just not that inspiring still. It’s hard I know but the same tired old images come up again and again for men. Also Sympathy cards are very tricky but I feel like some suppliers get this occasion really wrong – please stop putting images of wilting or dead flowers on sympathy cards! Some suppliers have cards that are too whimsical to be sympathy cards. There must be a happy medium out there – beautiful simple words and no more dead flowers!

Age cards can be a bit boring too – with the exception of Rosie Made a Thing and Five Dollar Shake age cards, which both really do get it very right.

What challenges have you faced over the past few months and how have you dealt with them.

How are you feeling about the next few months and the longer term?

I think the challenges we face tend to stay fairly constant - making sure that we find the best cards and that we don’t let down our loyal customers. Card buying can be hard to do at trade fairs as it’s quite time consuming – I’d love there to be a better way of keeping on top of all the great new card brands out there.

I’m feeling very positive about the future, I don’t think the British appetite for greeting cards is going to go away any

time soon – we just need to keep finding all the best ones.

Anything else you’d like to add?

I am a huge advocate of sending personal mail to friends and loved ones out of the blue – no occasion required. I would love to find card ranges that maybe speak to that market – cards to friends or family to let them know they’re ace or that you really appreciate them.

If you could choose the cards people sent you - which would you choose to receive for Christmas or birthday or other special occasion?

I love a card that is chosen for me with care and that says something about me as a person – I feel quite insulted by a generic, could be for anyone card. I choose the cards for Atticusboo with that in mind. No one wants a dull generic card.

Congratulation

to all the greeting card retailers

the Retas awards

SHOP TALK

who have been named as finalists in

. Here’s what just a few of them thought about their nomination, and what makes them stand out from the crowd…

Linda Maguire

Atticusboo

Buxton, Derbyshire

I think the fact that we hand-pick every single card we sell helps a lot; we never just buy across a range – we have to love every card we choose or have a customer or occasion in mind for it. If we love a range but we don’t feel that a particular card is right for us, we don’t buy it.

We are also not too afraid of o ending people with slightly sweary cards – we probably have more freedom in that respect than a large chain. Obviously it has to be funny to justify the swear but we have only been told o once or twice by outraged members of the public. It’s often the most genteel-looking elderly ladies who buy the sweariest cards!

We are lucky that our shop is in a shopping arcade, so we have a beautiful Minton-tiled corridor where we can show the majority of our range. People often don’t come out looking to buy cards but purchase a handful anyway as they pass.

Tony & Nicola Lavery Occasions of Porth Porth

Glamorgan, Wales

We have an amazing team behind us and they always give great customer service and we are blessed to have a large shop so we can o er a very large range of cards and gifts.

Paul Cheshire &Quirky, Berkhamsted, Herts

Nicky Goodman Paddock Wood Cards

Kent

We are so excited about our Retas nomination; we have been nominated before but we have been in this shop nearly five years and it’s the first time for us in here. We are so proud of how far we have come. There are so many amazing card shops out there so to be nominated is such an achievement in itself. I believe our passion in what we do, our adaptability to change, our rapport with our customers and my amazing sta are what sets us apart, and we look forward to many more years in the industry.

we swear we show the products o

Since opening we have used small independent card sellers and every six months introduced new suppliers and di erent styles of cards. We started selling predominantly birthday cards, but as customers asked for more occasions we have increased our ranges greatly. We have a great mix of cards, but customers continue to come in for the cheeky and unusual designs, which you can’t buy anywhere else.

Cilena and Patric

Artichoke Tynemouth North East Coast

Holly, Diz and Geo

The Tokenhouse Nottingham

ages. We love it when a whole family

The thing that makes our shop stand out is probably the variety. We try very hard to appeal to customers of all ages. We love it when a whole family can come in and find things together. Grandparents, parents, children and students. We have rude greetings cards but also artists’ cards.

In Tynemouth we have always been known for creative window displays and we feel it is so important to ‘tell a story’ when displaying products. We don’t believe in overcrowding a display and we like to show the products o to make them appeal to the customers.

Eclectic dreams

Paul Cheshire at Hertfordshire’s &Quirky

Can you tell us a little about how you got into greeting card retail?

After working in hospitality, retail and then 10 years in an o ce job, I always wanted to have my own shop. With help and persuasion from my partner we started a market stand and after six months we were lucky to find the shop we are in now.

And can you tell us a little about the shop?

Our shop is situated on Berkhamsted High Street, Hertfordshire. We are a bit further out of town than the main shops, but we’re surrounded by other small independents and we all work together to improve footfall.

The shop is a bit of a TARDIS as it is situated over three floors and has two rooms per floor. This means we are lucky to be able to curate di erent looks and trends in each space.

How do you source products?

My sister, Laura, is the main buyer for cards and we attend all the trade shows in the UK including Top Drawer, Spring Fair and also PG Live to find new suppliers. With the growth of Faire we have also been able to source items on there, along with finding overseas card suppliers who we may never have found.

Laura also maintains our social media, and so again through this channel we have been able to find new suppliers.

What is your selection criteria?

Anything which is fun, bright and fits into the style of our store is always a winner. Customers also enjoy the

more cheekier cards, so anything that makes us laugh is also a hit. And when we hear the customers also chuckle at them we know we have made a good choice.

How is trading for you at the moment?

Trading is very strange at the moment; we haven’t had the boost after Easter that we would normally see. We think that Easter being early and also the delay in the good weather dampened sales.

What’s your demographic like?

We have a wide mix of customers from young families who have moved out from London, to members of the older generation.

How do you get word out there?

Social media is our biggest asset and we try to post every day on stories to keep us fresh in people’s minds. We also use local advertising on social media to promote events or new product lines. This works very well for us and the amount of customers who comment on our media channels online and in-store, means customers like this method.

We also have lots of word-of-mouth promotion, with customers coming to discover our quirky, eclectic store.

Have you seen the average cost of your products go up - and if so how have you dealt with it?

We have tried to maintain prices as best we can, as we would rather sell the item than it sit on our shelves. Some items are now not viable to purchase and so we have put these items on hold until the cost of these goods hopefully comes down.

What do you like most about your job?

Variation is the key part I love; it’s great serving customers and seeing the items that we have chosen sell. Also it’s great bringing in fantastic, unusual products for customers to buy.

And what is your least favourite aspect? Luckily the part of the role I do not like is the accounting side, but my business partner Donald handles the money side, sorting out invoices, tax and VAT. What brands have been particularly popular with your customers?

Gifts Art Wow mugs and coasters have been a great

, a Retas finalist, describes the shop as a ‘TARDIS’, and explains how he sources the fun, bright collection of product on sale

hit, with their celebrity and fun bright designs. Is there anything you haven’t been able to source that you would like to find?

We are desperate to find a gift wrap company with fun bright wrap and accessories. We did find one at a trade show, which would have been ideal, but due to another potential retailer in our town they would not allow us to have an account.

What challenges have you faced over the past few months and how have you dealt with them. How are you feeling about the next few months and the longer term?

Due to customers spending less than last year we have noticed sales are down on last year. We have amended our buying patterns and are buying in less quantity but still are getting in new products to keep our shop fresh and on-trend.

I’m hoping that as the weather improves more customers will come out spending.

Making positive changes

Sara Allbright, director and co-founder of Retail100 Consulting celebrates innovation and disruption driving real positive changes in the gift and greetings markets…

One of the things we often talk about with retailers and brands alike is the need for innovation and disruption in a market or sector. It’s not something to be afraid of and often is driven by a real-life change in consumer behaviour or a need to solve a problem in a particular market.   It feels like a relevant subject to talk about this month, as I have come across in recent weeks several things happening within the gifts and greeting card sectors that are great examples of innovation and disruption both from new companies and more established players in the markets.

My most recent find are the QR stickers from digital content maker Addsquirrel, whose purpose is to make giving and receiving cards and gifts truly special again. Its smart QR stickers, once stuck inside your card or gift tag, mean the sender can easily upload a video, photo, or voice note to add a unique and heartfelt touch to a card or gift.

With so many people living at a distance from their friends and loved ones and not able to hand over a gift in person this adds a really joyful addition to the moment when a recipient receives their present, and provides a memory that can be saved and cherished for years to come. It’s also interesting that the once-innovative QR code was dismissed and nearly disappeared until Covid gave it a new life, and they are now used across the board by businesses.

Another concept appearing across the consumer industries is the circular economy and how you can create a full 360-degree journey for a product. The concept of regifting isn’t new but is often associated with passing on a present that someone didn’t like or didn’t need. It was certainly not something I would have associated with greeting cards until I discovered Greentings. These eco cards have removable inserts and have been designed to be re-sent at least three times. It is also possible to track the cards’ journey if you like, adding an interesting and even competitive edge into how many times the card can find a new recipient. We are not just seeing product innovation as companies need to evolve and reinvent to stay relevant and grow their businesses. An interesting

example of this is the move Scribbler recently made from being a retailer of cards into wholesaling them too, showing it is not afraid of sharing its unique design style and bestseller knowledge with other retailers in a bid to grow together. Scribbler has also been demonstrating a new print-on-demand kiosk service, which allows a customer to create their own card (akin to those found on many of the greetingcard retail websites) - offering consumers

‘‘Another concept appearing across the consumer industries is the circular economy and how you can create a full 360-degree journey for a product’’

this new level of choice will be an interesting development in terms of how it may or may not change behaviour in-store.

It’s also great to see how longstanding institutions such as the Gift of the Year awards are also looking to new opportunities that will in turn make participation in the competition even more rewarding than before. Award organisers have used the growth in the gifting of gift cards to work with the team at Lifestyle to create a Gift

of the Year gift card, a project in which all finalists can participate. This will help build the public profile of the awards and make the unveiling of the People’s Choice Award winner at Harrogate Home & Gift sundowners drinks reception an even bigger opportunity for the lucky recipient.

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

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

She specialised in brand relationships and growing small emerging brands into market leaders. Sara is also experienced in own-label sourcing across multiple categories and countries. Email: hello@retail100consulting.co.uk Visit www.retail100consulting.co.uk; www.linkedin.com/company/retail100-consulting