Scotland show kicks off autumn

Scotland’s Trade Fair Autumn has re-positioned itself as the first show of the autumn buying season. Taking place at the SEC, Glasgow from Aug 20-21, the Show gives buyers better timing for Christmas buying, allows them to top up for autumn and gives them an early snapshot at 2024 ranges, said organisers.

Over a third of exhibitors at the Show are new, offering greater variety and a wider selection of gifts. Ones to look out for are Enesco, Swole Panda, Shu Da Living, Kate Trouw, Academie and Cairn Candle Company.

Scotland’s Trade Fair also supports new young companies with its specially created Launch Gallery. This area is already almost fully booked, with companies such as MUKA Jewellery, The Ink Balm, Victoria Gordon Art, Designed by Islay, and Rosana Exposito. Mark Saunders, Springboard director, said: “This date change came after serious consultation with exhibitors and retailers and now fits in better with the buying season. Offering retailers an earlier chance to get their hands on new products, and Christmas stock is both beneficial to them and their customers. In addition, it aligns the two Scottish shows better with a six-month gap between them.’’

Roshah Designs is named creative startup of the year

Huddersfield-based Roshah Designs has been named as the Creative StartUp of the Year 2023 at the North East, Yorkshire and the Humber finals of the StartUp Awards 2023.

Roshah Designs is a publisher of cultural greetings cards and gift wrap for all special occasions.

The North East, Yorkshire and the Humber final was held at the Boiler Shop in Newcastle and saw 33 different awards given out to new businesses in categories such as Consumer Services StartUp, Rebel StartUp of the Year and Social Enterprise StartUp of the Year.

Company owner and designer Robina Shah (pictured) told Greetings Today: “Winning was such a surprise as I was just happy being nominated. This means so much to me and confirms that I should keep going even though I feel like quitting sometimes. This has boosted my confidence and given me the boost I needed.”