Leader

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leader Editor Naomi MacKay

As I write this, we are enjoying an unusually hot spell during August, usually known for its unpredictable (and often rainy) weather.

And it’s not just the weather that is unpredictable. With price rises, supply chain issues, the war in Ukraine, and Brexit, the industry is facing a number of challenges. But positivity is the keyword for the greeting card industry - and that is apparent from a number of industry figures, suppliers and retailers who appear in this issue.

Our columnist Sarah Ward, chief executive of The Giftware Association, says the retail landscape caused by the pandemic is one of constant shifts. It’s been almost impossible for some businesses to plan as they did pre-Covid, but, she points out, “what we do know is that consumers seek transparency, authenticity and quality brands who stand by their values - and they seek joy”.

And as Penny Bailey at Retas-award winning shops Bailey’s points out: “That phrase ‘send a card, deliver a smile’ is so true.’’

Talking of which, September is the month when we celebrate The Greeting Card Association’s (GCA)Thinking of You Week - a time to encourage customers to let their friends and family know they appreciate them. It’s a wonderful opportunity to encourage card sending - and you can find out more on our GCA news page. Don’t forget to let me know what events and activities you have planned so that we can share them online.

We also look forward to Christmas and next year, with a range of shows that offer the chance to find something new for your retail offering.

In this issue you’ll find a comprehensive preview of Autumn Fair (September 4-7 at the NEC Birmingham) offering the perfect timing for buyers to top up their stock and make last-minute orders for the Golden Quarter. With 600-plus UK and international exhibitors displaying their collections, there’s a huge variety and depth of product, as well as live speakers and seminars.

Top Drawer AW returns to Olympia in London from September 11-13. This design-led lifestyle and interiors trade show promises more than 1,500 brands from the UK and abroad, as well as exclusive trends, and seminar sessions.

This event also promises positivity - its message of ‘Retail Revitalised’ demonstrates how it is ’looking ahead with an unapologetically positive outlook’.

In October, specialist stationery show Insights-X returns to Nuremberg for the first time in three years. As well as a host of stationery exhibitors, visitors can pick up all kinds of tips from InsightTalks. The first tackles how to be successful in a changing society - a very topical subject - while green issues and learning how to make the most of social media are also in focus. All are translated into English and streamed on the show’s new digital platform. Learn more in our two-page preview.

As I’ve said before, the people involved in the greeting cards sector seem full of verve and drive, and are truly inspirational. We have some fascinating profiles for you, including Rhian Ap Gruffydd, who turned a chance encounter with a dog on a photo shoot into a greeting cards business, and Sue and Scott Morrish, whose passion for nature led to a successful and pioneering enterprise: The Eco-friendly Card Co.

Retailers can find more inspiration from our retail interviews with Retas award-winners Penny Black in Glasgow and Bailey’s stores in Merseyside. We also focus on cards and gifts for garden centres in this issue - a growing sector that can’t be ignored. Get an insight into buying patterns and what’s selling well from British Garden Centres group gift buyer Emma Davis, and Brittany Bjoko at The Langton Greenhouse and Garden Centre in Leicestershire.

As this issue goes to press, the Greetings Today team is planning its trips to both Autumn Fair and Top Drawer - we hope to see you there. Do say hello if you spot us walking the aisles!

As always I am more than happy to hear from readers who would like to take part in our features, interviews and news pages. Contact me at naomi@lemapublishing.co.uk.

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

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