Progressive Gifts & Home March/April 2017

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March/April 2017

Greats A4 Ticket Booking advert 2017_Layout 1 12/01/2017 12:41 Page 1

I would like to book………………place(s) at £165 per place + VAT I would like………………table(s) of ten at £1650 per table + VAT I would like………………table(s) of twelve at £1980 per place + VAT I enclose a cheque made payable to Max Publishing Debit my Visa/Mastercard (please delete as necessary) Card No...........................................................................................................

Expiry date........................................................................... Start date.......................................................................... Security code...........................................

Address if different to company address....................................................................................................................................................................................... .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Name................................................................................ Company Address......................................................................................................................................... ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Tel............................................................................................................................. Fax.................................................................................................................................... email....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

All bookings must be accompanied with payment. We will be unable to refund any cancellations after 1 May. Tickets and invoice will be sent to you once payment has been received.

Please return this booking form with payment to: Createvents Ltd, 450, Brook Drive Reading Berkshire RG2 6UU Tel: 01183 340085 or by E-mail: clare@createvents.co.uk www.createvents.co.uk

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www.max-publishing.co.uk The home of market leading trade magazines

The B2B Publication For Preschool Products and Retailers

EXHIBITIONS

THE HOME OF MARKET LEADING TRADE AWARDS

This Month

I'd like to start with a huge 'thank you' to the brilliant gift retailers who submitted entries for The Greats 2017, and to the numerous suppliers, reps and agents who told us about their most enterprising customers.

It was a joy to learn more about the ways in which retailers of all shapes, sizes and locations pulled out the stops last year, but, as always, it came down to choosing the final six in each category. Huge congratulations to those who made it through to the finals, and commiserations to those who came close, but didn't quite make it. To find out which shops are through, turn to pages 4 and 5. The winners will be announced at a magnificent Greats Awards lunch in the Ballroom at the glittering Grosvenor House on London's Park Lane on Thursday May 4. If you'd like to come along, contact our event manager Clare Davies on 01183 340085 or email clare@createvents.co.uk. (For more about The Greats Awards turn to page 7).

In this issue, we are also very proud to publish our 11th Retail Barometer, based on a micro survey of gift retailers in 2016. In a word, according to respondents, the year was 'challenging', but was it a good one nonetheless? Turn to pages 20 to 25 for the full lowdown that includes the first in depth analysis of how gift retailers viewed Christmas 2016.

While The Greats is a reason to celebrate, not such good news for small businesses is that on April 1, business rates will go up (or down) depending on the rateable value of the premises. For thousands of gift independents, rate rises could make them take stock and do a re-evaluation of their own. Turn to news on page 13 and Not Highly Rated on pages 27-29 where gift retailers give their searingly honest opinions.

Elsewhere in the issue, we reveal what's trending in stationery (see pages 53-57), men's gifts (see pages 61-65) and garden gifts (see pages 47-49). We also shine the spotlight on companies who design and manufacture their products in Britain (see pages 33-37). Plus, find out whose products at Ambiente in Frankfurt made actress Liz Hurley think of her mum! (See Britain's Starring Role on page 31).

Talking of trade shows, I'll be heading to the London Stationery Show at the Business Design Centre in London on April 25-26. Hope to see you there, and Happy Easter!

Above: Sue stops for afternoon tea with Burleigh & Poole Potteries’ business development manager Jim Norman (right) and Paul Furnell (left), international sales & new business development manager, on the Denby stand at the recent Ambiente show in Frankfurt. Turn to A Global Perspective on page 31.

Inside Max Publishing Ltd, United House, North Road, London N7 9DP. Tel: 020 7700 6740 Fax: 020 7607 6411 www.progressivegifts.co.uk www.thegreatsawards.co.uk

4-5 7-19 20-25 27-29 31 33-37 44-45 47-49

THE GREATS FINALISTS 2017 NEWS RETAIL BAROMETER 2016 INDUSTRY ISSUE: BUSINESS RATES GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE: AMBIENTE SPOTLIGHT ON... MADE IN BRITAIN IN PROFILE: CD HERITAGE SPOTLIGHT ON... GIFTS FOR GARDENERS

51 53-57 59 61-65 71-73 84-85 89 89

GIFT OF THE YEAR SPOTLIGHT ON... STATIONERY A GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE: HOMI SPOTLIGHT ON... MEN'S GIFTS SHOWSTOPPERS BEST SELLERS ON THE ROAD LAST WORD

Publishers Jacqueline Brown, Warren Lomax and Ian Hyder

Progressive Gifts & Home is published 7 times a year.

Subscription: UK; one year £50, two years £85 or three years £110.

Overseas; one year £75, two years £125 or three years £165. Please send your cheque to: Progressive Gifts & Home, Max Publishing Ltd, United House, North Road, London N7 9DP. Tel: 020 7700 6740 Fax 020 7609 4222/020 7607 6411 email: ianh@max-publishing.co.uk

Design & Production Russell Sutton

Subscriptions enquiries maxsubscriptions@marketingreinforcements.co.uk Tel: 020 8943 9541 ABC figure 6,788 July 1st 2010 - 30th June 2011 Member of the Audit Bureau of Circulation.

Sue Marks Editor

Angie Bryant Ian Hyder Advertisement Manager Publishing Director

sue@sjbassoc.freeserve.co.uk

angieb@max-publishing.co.uk

ianh@max-publishing.co.uk

Copyright 2008. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the information in this magazine was correct at the time of going to press, the publishers cannot accept legal liability for any errors or omissions, nor can they accept responsibility for the standing of advertisers nor any organisation mentioned in the text. Views of contributors do not necessarily reflect those of the publishers.

PROGRESSIVE GIFTS & HOME WORLDWIDE

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The Greats Finalists 2017

DAZZLING

LINE-UP OF

FINALISTS

After a nail-biting few months, a truly sparkling line-up of finalists have been announced for The Greats Retailer Awards 2017!

The winners will be revealed at a glittering Awards event on Thursday May 4 in the breathtaking Ballroom of the Grosvenor House Hotel in Park Lane.

The theme is 'crystal' to celebrate not only the 15th anniversary of the Awards themselves, but also to reflect the Ballroom's stunning crystal chandeliers that simply ooze glitz and glamour!

For more about The Greats Awards and how to be a part of the most spectacular day on the gift industry's calendar, please turn to page 7.

(All finalists are listed in alphabetical order)

Retail Employee of the Year 2017

Independent Gift Retailer Of The Year - Midlands & Wales

l l l l l l

l l l l l l

Jane Bailess, John Lewis, London Lisa Dean, Feathering Your Nest, Rayleigh Kim Foy, Gaslight Gift Shop, Castletown Sarah Kiely, Lily Blue, Hagley Nicky Leach, MiMi (hw), Hartley Wintney Zoe Whitehead, Tong Garden Centre, Bradford

Alphabet Gift Shop, Burton on Trent and Mickleover The Bottle Kiln, West Hallam Printer + Taylor, Hereford Purple Holly, Bassingham Rhubarb, Great Malvern Selections, Port Talbot

Independent Gift Retailer Of The Year - London (inside M25)

Independent Gift Retailer Of The Year - North & Northern Ireland

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l l l l l l

The Dulwich Trader, Ed and Tomlinsons, Dulwich Giftbox, Uxbridge InSpitalfields, Spitalfields Source, South Woodford and Spitalfields Space, Exmouth Market We Built This City, Carnaby Street

Acanthus, Corbridge The Bottom Drawer, Portadown The Emporium Interiors, Clitheroe Presentation, Barrowford Select Interiors, Cookstown, Co. Tyrone Serendipity, Hull

Independent Gift Retailer Of The Year - Home Counties, South and South East

Independent Gift Retailer Of The Year - South West

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England At Home, Brighton The Green Room, Sawbridge Metalyka, Stony Stratford Red Card, Petworth Something Special, Edenbridge White Mint, Berkhampsted and St Albans

Brocante, Fowey Cilla and Camilla, Beaminster and Bridport Daisy Park, South Motlon Heritage in Thornbury, Thornbury Illustrated Living, Truro Jo Amor, Tiverton

Independent Gift Retailer Of The Year - East Anglia

Independent Gift Retailer Of The Year - Scotland

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Cloudnine, Market Deeping Feathering Your Nest, Rayleigh Gifted Retail, Norwich House & Garden, Snape Maltings Plum Green, Hadleigh Upstairs Downstairs, Cromer

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4

Progressive Gifts & Home Worldwide

The Gift, Beauly The Keekin' Glass, Prestwick Maia Gifts, Glasgow The Old School Beauly, Beauly Papyrus, Glasgow Top Drawer, St Andrews

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The Greats Finalists 2017

Independent Gift Retailer Of The Year - Newcomer - South and Wales l l l l l l

Highworth Emporium, Highworth Josies, Bideford Mash Lifestyle, Chipping Norton Meggies, Painswick Mooch, Ealing Sunflower, Braunton

Best Garden Centre Retailer of Gifts l l l l l l

Bents Garden Centre, Glazebury Cannon Hall Garden Centre, Cawthorne Frosts, Woburn Sands Garsons, Esher and Titchfield The Mains of Drum, Banchory Wentworth Garden Centre, Wentworth

Best Museum or Visitor Attraction Gift Shop Independent Gift Retailer Of The Year - Newcomer - Midlands, North and Scotland l l l l l l

Barefoot Living, Burnham Market Birdhouse Interiors, Ripon Joco Interiors, Nuneaton The Lions Paw, Bridge of Weir Penny & Black, Lundin Links Serendipity House, Kirkham

Best Specialist Multiple Retailer of Gifts l l l l l l l

Between the Lines (13 stores) French Grey (4 stores) Lorimers (11 stores) Love Aroma (10 stores) Sass & Belle (4 stores) Utility (4 stores) Vinegar Hill (11 stores)

Department Store Retailer of Gifts l l l l l l l

Barkers Home, Northallerton Bentalls, Kingston upon Thames Fenwick, Colchester Fenwick, Newcastle John Lewis, Oxford Street Rossiters of Bath, Bath Strickland and Holt, Yarm

l l l l l l

London Zoo The Shakespeare Birthplace Trust Gift Shop Stonehenge Gift Shop The University of Glasgow Gift Shop V & A Gift Shops The View From The Shard

Best In-Store or Window Display l l l l l l

Antique Rose, Wokingham Jo Amor, Tiverton Love Thy Interiors, Thirsk Paper Tiger, Edinburgh Rossiters of Bath, Bath Secret Messages Interiors, Buckingham

Best Online or Mail Order Gift Retailer l l l l l l

Firebox Gifts From Handpicked iwantoneofthose.com JD Williams Menkind The Present Finder

Best Retailer Initiative l Chester Zoo, Chester: for its Never Forget

fundraising campaign l Maia Gifts, Glasgow: for its Christmas

Best Non-Specialist Retailer of Gifts l l l l l l

The Barn at Hollies Farm Shop, Little Budworth Brodie Countryfare, Brodie by Forres JOY (multiple outlets) Oliver Bonas (multiple outlets) Steamer Trading (multiple outlets) Westmorland Gift Shops, Westmorland

Best Lifestyle or Homewares Retailer of Gifts l l l l l l

About Living, Glasgow, Newton Mearns and Perth Gautier Lifestyle, Chigwell Lily's Attic, Witney Loch Levens Larder, Kinross Scape Interiors West, Bournemouth Time & Tide, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Berwick

Best Gift Retailer of Jewellery and Fashion Accessories l l l l l l

Bijou, Elgin Cadeaux, Leeds Melbury Gallery, Sherborne and Dorchester MiMi (hw), Hartley Wintney The Olive Tree Gift Boutique, Londonderry Orange Tree, Topsham

advertising campaign l Maison Rustic, Wokingham: for its 'welcome box' for

new home owners l Mantons, Port Erin: for its craft design competition l The Old School Beauly, Beauly: for its Hermione

Granger scarf social media promotion l Papyrus, Glasgow: for its Love Bomb emoji event

Best Service To The Independent Gift Retailer (Companies are listed in alphabetical order) l Ashleigh & Burwood l Carte Blanche Group (CBG) l East of India l Enesco l Gisela Graham l Joe Davies l Lesser & Pavey l Sass & Belle l Widdop And Co l Yankee Candle

Honorary Achievement Award No finalists are revealed for this special award.

Progressive Gifts & Home Worldwide

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Industry News

The Greats 2017 Fabulous Finalists Announced There were palpable shrieks of delight from this year's excited Greats finalists, when the shortlisted gift shops in this year's Greats Awards were announced at the beginning of March. Whoops of delight could be heard across the UK, as finalists realised that it could be their name on a Greats trophy in May! "Wow! Thank you so much, I'm over the moon! So exciting!" exclaimed Joanna Lee, owner of Sunflower in Braunton, North Devon, a finalist in the Best Newcomer South and Wales category. At the other end of the UK, Jenny Morrison, owner of Top Drawer in St Andrews, exclaimed: "I can’t wait to tell all my customers!"

In Hartley Wintney, Julianne Moore, owner of MiMi (hw) was ecstatic following the shop's success in the Home Counties category: "we're so thrilled and excited that MiMi has made the finals. We all work so hard and to be recognised by our industry is so rewarding and humbling," she told PG&H. "Our fingers and toes are crossed!" added Constance Foster, owner of The Gift, Beauly, a finalist in the Independent Gift Retailer of the Year Scotland category, while Aaron Roberts, owner of Gifted Above, and below left: News travels fast, with local newspapers quick to spread the Retail Company in Norwich, a finalist in the Independent Retailer of the word about this year's Greats finalists.

Year East Anglia category, summed it up with: "What wonderful news!

Below: The Greats invitation has been designed by Wendy Jones-Blackett.

Looking forward to May already!"

At Daisy Park in South Molton, owner Emma Paisey not only received coverage of her shop reaching the finals in the North Devon Journal but also highlighted that the shop has received 7,500 and climbing - reaches on social media. "This is really great for Daisy Park and we so appreciate the recognition in this really tough category," emphasised Emma.

Self-nominations and nominations arrived from gift retailers and gift departments of all shapes, sizes and locations, with entrants showing their enthusiasm and determination over the past 12 months to get people shopping with them.

"Having taken crystal as the theme for The Greats Awards15th anniversary in May, there were certainly plenty of entries that dazzled us," confirmed PG&H's editor Sue Marks. "In such an increasingly competitive market place, The Greats Awards have always been about celebrating and rewarding outstanding and proactive gift retailers from across the retail spectrum. Congratulations to our very impressive line-up of finalists.�

Other Greats categories include the Retailer Employee of the Year award for an unsung 'hero' working on the shop floor, as well as Best Service to the Independent Gift Retailer, recognising outstanding suppliers, and, of course, the very special Honorary Achievement Award which recognises and honours a member of the industry - either on the retail or supply side - who has made an outstanding contribution to the gift and home industry.

The Greats Awards take place on Thursday May 4 at the glittering Grosvenor House on London's Park Lane. For tickets, contact Clare Davies on 01183 340085 or email Clare at clare@createvents.co.uk

A Honey Of An Event Greats sponsor Root Candles will also be sponsoring The Greats pre-lunch drinks reception as well as the fun, stand up/sit down competition.

The winner will receive a magnum of champagne and a crystal bee necklace.

Above: Root Candles are sponsoring the pre-lunch drinks reception.

The Greats 2017 Sponsors Among the fabulous line up 2017 sponsors for The Greats Awards are: Ashleigh & Burwood; Ascential/Autumn Fair; Carte Blanche Group; Clarion Events/Home & Gift, Harrogate; Dartington Crystal; Gift Republic; Gisela Graham; Harrogate Christmas & Gift; Joe Davies; London Stationery Show/National Stationery Week; NPW; PG Live; Premier Decorations; Ravensden; Root Candles; Sass & Belle; Shrieking Violet; The Giftware Association; Wild & Wolf and Yankee Candle.

The Glorious Greats Awards Lunch The Greats winners will be announced at a glittering, crystal themed, Awards lunchtime/ afternoon event which will take place on Thursday May 4 in the Ballroom of London's Grosvenor House Hotel on Park Lane. Attended by leading UK retailers, it will be a great chance for the industry to get together and network.

Tickets to the Awards are available from event organiser Clare Davies at Createvents on 01183 340085 or by emailing Clare at clare@createvents.co.uk Above: The Grosvenor House, Park Lane, home of The Greats Awards.

Below: Guests at last year's Greats Awards lunch.

Putting On The Glitz Echoing the dazzling crystal theme of The Greats' 15th anniversary, this year's sparkling Greats invitations and menus are being designed and sponsored by Wendy Jones-Blackett, co-founder of the eponymous publishing company.

"There will be lots of glitter and gems, as well as a champagne fountain image from our new Paper Diamonds Bijou range," confirms Wendy.

PROGRESSIVE GIFTS & HOME WORLDWIDE

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Immerse yourself in the greeting card world PG Live 2017 is an inspiring celebration of the exciting greeting card industry. Thousands of original designs, exciting ranges and exclusive show launches will be on offer at the UK’s only specialist greeting card show, thanks to a packed exhibitor list comprising the top 280+ publishers, designers and suppliers from right around the globe.

“Last year’s PG Live lived up to its reputation as the most sociable trade show in the business! The show is wonderful for building relationships with lots of great greeting card publishers, both new and old!”

Matt Shearing, partner, All Good Gifts, Battersea

A Creative Journey PG Live takes you on a creative journey to the very heart of the international greeting card industry.

Book your free tickets now to be part of the fun. www.progressivegreetingslive.com

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BOOK YOUR TICKET NOW!

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Industry News

PG&H Retail Barometer

Below: Gift indies gave their views on how they see the future of independent gift retailers over the next three to five years.

A Positive Year With the high street, as ever, challenged by business rates, rents, the minimum and National Living Wage and workplace pensions, along with competition from online competitors, the respondents to PG&H's 11th Retail Barometer revealed that no matter what, there remains a determination and resilience to beat the odds.

The Retail Barometer, now in its 11th year, is the only dedicated research into the health and wealth of the independent gift retailer, providing invaluable insight into this important sector.

Encouragingly, some 80% of respondents are expecting to grow their business or keep it steady this year, although only 11% are planning to open another outlet.

Looking back to 2016, over half of respondents confirmed that they had enjoyed a good year compared to 2015, with almost a fifth stating that it was on a par. For the majority, Christmas in particular was a good one. Overall, throughout the year, the average spend increased for many shops, with greeting cards especially having a very positive effect on the bottom line.

Social media too, was seen as an important tool in the marketing mix, keeping gift retailers engaged with their customers. Other marketing initiatives focused on joining forces with other businesses and associations in the community.

On the product diversification front, social stationery bounded up the 'must have' charts. Made in Britain, and/or locally sourced products were also seen to be of growing in importance.

For the full findings of the Retail Barometer, turn to pages 20-25.

Lobster Grabs A Hat Trick Of Awards Industry newcomer Lobster Homewear, which scooped two Gift of the Year 2017 Awards as winner of the Kitchen & Dining and Made in Britain categories, was also announced as the winner of CNBC's Pop Up Start Up TV show, where founders brother and sister Nathalie and Alec Cuffy were thrilled to walk away with the show's ÂŁ20,000 prize.

The company, which launched in 2016, designs and manufactures apron designs that are named after people that have inspired Nathalie. Every apron has a different personality, style and feel and includes an integral mobile phone pocket and integrated detachable oven gloves which can be used as heat mats, tea towel loops and bell tie backs.

Above: Lobster Homewear's multi-award winning apron.

Talking The TV Talk At the beginning of January, Fiona Fabien, owner of Papyrus (left) in Glasgow, was interviewed on BBC News at 10 to give her views on trade over the Christmas period and her confidence in the economy going forward into 2017. The interview was shown in the context of Kamal Ahmed’s report featuring an interview with Andy Haldane, chief economist with The Bank of England.

Although she didn't realise it at the time, Fiona was echoing the general views of the economists, that Christmas trading had been better than expected, but that rising prices, caused by weaker sterling, would be a cause for concern in 2017 as many consumers would have to tighten the belt as inflation takes a hold. "We were honoured to be chosen as the voice of independent retailers, and happy to raise our brand awareness on national television," commented Fiona.

Best Of British Design Dedicated to British designer-makers, the British Craft Trade Fair (BCTF) will be opening its doors from April 2-4 at the Yorkshire Event Centre, Great Yorkshire Showground in Harrogate. Once again, thousands of products will be showcased.

With demand for British made products constantly on the rise and, bearing in mind the current political climate and weak sterling, home produced goods are becoming relatively more attractive for British consumers than imported products," comments organiser Margeret Bunn.

The show's four sectors will cover design-led giftware; interiors and accessories; jewellery and fashion, and greetings and stationery. Almost 70 new designers will be showcasing products in the Newcomers Gallery. l BCTF organisers PSM are also poised to launch Giftag, a new home and gift fair in London this Autumn. Taking place at the Old Truman Brewery in London's Brick Lane, the show will run from September 10-12 and will include seminars and workshops. Visit www.giftag.london

Christopher Dawson Heritage And Stuart Morris In Agreement Stuart Morris, a high quality design and print company based in Hadleigh Suffolk, has signed an exclusive sales and marketing agreement with Paul Travis and the Christopher Dawson sales group to develop and distribute its retail ranges of British made textiles. "The company specialises in bespoke print which will continue to develop through the sales rep group, with a focus on independent retailers offering textile products with low minimums at competitive prices," says the rep group's head of sales Paul. (See A Part of Britain's Heritage on pages 44-45).

A Royal Gift Of An Opportunity Historic Royal Palaces is looking to expand its licensing programme. Areas of particular interest include gifting, home fragrancing, tabletop and luxury toiletries as well as home fragrance.

Above: Historic Royal Palaces is looking for new licensees in gifts and home.

Signed, Sealed, Delivered To the surprise and delight of The Music Gifts Company England, (the company's American distributor), pop superstar Stevie Wonder was a visitor to the stand at the North American Music Merchants (NAMM) exhibition, which took place in Anaheim, California. More good news was that Music Gifts won the Best Stand at the Show award.

Above: Stevie Wonder with Debbie Knight, general manager of The Music Gifts Company England, the company's USA distributor.

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Industry News

Business Rates Fiasco Philip Hammond Comes Under Fire

Below: Chancellor Philip Hammond.

The Chancellor's Budget on March 8 did nothing to quell fears on the question of business rates. (See Not Highly Rated on pages xxx). The Chancellor admitted that there are no plans to abolish business rates which annually make some £25bn for the Treasury.

With small businesses - independent gift retailers included bearing the brunt of the new rates legislation, e-tailers, such as Amazon, are likely to have seen their rates fall in out of town distribution centres.

Conversely, the majority of high street retailers will see significant rate rises with no government plan in sight to bring business rates in line to address the discrepancy between business rates charged to bricks and mortar retailers and those to online retailers. His promise that the government will be reviewing the re-evaluation process before the next rates re-evaluation has been viewed sceptically by retail associations.

"In 2014, the Chancellor announced a full structural review of business rates," pointed out Alan Hawkins, chief executive of bira, in advance of the Budget. "All that has happened is a change to the appeals system and sticking plasters to the antiquated and unfair structure. We need fundamental reform and quickly. The government has clearly stated their support for the great British high street in these tumultuous times, but they have to demonstrate it."

Alan pointed out that small businesses are already paying more on the high street than their larger competitors. "Our research found that for every £1 per square metre on the high street, a multiple retailer pays 41p. Giving all retail businesses £12,000 off their business rates would give small businesses a reduction in their bill, which could be the difference between closing or surviving the already difficult trading situation they find themselves in."

The vacancy rate for shops is currently 13.3%, with one in seven shops currently boarded up. In the first six months of last year, 2, 656 shops closed on Britain's high streets, a rate of 15 a day. More shops closed than opened. l According to the latest research, more than a quarter of all retail SMEs in the UK cite high business rates as a one of their biggest challenges in competing with larger retailers, a figure which jumps to 38% among London-based retail SMEs. (Source: Close Brothers Retail Finance).

A Jewel Of A Store Within A Store A sparkling new jewellery store has just been launched within Pozzi's original gift and card shop in Elgin, Scotland. "It features over 20 of the leading brands, brand new LED lighting and backlit signage," enthuses owner David Robertson.

Right: The new Pozzi jewellery store.

Well, La La La Sitting in the cinema with her husband at a screening of the award winning movie La La Land, the last thing that Amanda Angless, founder and creative director of One Button, expected to see was one of her silk scarves up on the big screen. As she waited for the film to start, she couldn't help but smile at the McDonald's advertisement showing two girls in a lift swapping shoes, and then couldn't believe it when she saw that one of the girls was wearing a One Button scarf! "The girls ended up swapping scarves and then going to eat at McDonald’s," she explains. "It was such an amazing experience to see my scarf in the ad, and subsequently, to see the same McDonald's ad on TV too. It was definitely the highlight of the evening!

Interestingly, the scarf was part of our Autumn/Winter 2014 collection which just shows how our designs carry 'eternal classic' status!"

However, the media exposure didn't stop there with Amanda in for another surprise. During Spring Fair, one of One Button's necklaces appeared on BBC's the One Show. "I couldn't believe it when I saw a Waitrose lady being interviewed who was wearing One Button!" enthuses Amanda. "And even that wasn't all. On East Midlands News the following night, a top NHS health care official was shown on the programme also wearing one of my scarves!" exclaims Amanda.

They say things happen in threes!

Above: One Button's heart scarf design that had a starring role in a recent Macdonald's advertisement.

Right: An NHS official is pictured wearing a One Button scarf too.

Creative Tops Partners With Roald Dahl Leading tableware and homeware company Creative Tops has been given a golden ticket, having recently signed a major licensing agreement with the Roald Dahl Literary Estate as master homeware licensee. Homeware products, aimed at both children and adults, feature storybook illustrations from The BFG, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and Matilda, and are currently in design. The collection will be paired with Roald Dahl's book quotes, with the range spanning across all areas of home and kitchenware to include mugs, travel mugs, tinware, bakeware, melamine and more.

"Roald Dahl is such a celebrated and treasured British icon and is loved across generations by children, parents and grandparents alike," says Creative Tops' buying manager Emma Jordan. "The franchise had an amazing year in 2016 with many more exciting projects to come."

The collection will launch for Autumn/ Winter 2017.

Winning Ways Greats 2017 finalist Jo Williams, owner of Joco in Nuneaton, was delighted to win the Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council Christmas window competition.

"There was great publicity surrounding my achievement as I was featured in the local paper as well as being interviewed live on BBC Coventry & Warwickshire radio station," explains Jo. " I also won a professional advert fromBenco."

A formal presentation evening took place at the end of January.

Above: Jo Williams (right), owner of Joco in Nuneaton received her award at the end of January from the Major, Councillor Jill Shepherd, in the Majors parlour.

Eastern Promise Children's toys and products for pets will be a key focus at BIG+BIH in Bangna, Bangkok, this April. The lifestyle show, which takes place at BITEC, runs from April 19-21, and also features gifts, decorative home accessories, stationery, travel bags, home fragrancing and housewares.

Above: Children's gifts will be to the fore at BIG+BIH in April.

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www.exclusivelyelectrical.co.uk

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Industry News

PG Live 2017 Fresh New Talent Leads The Way With greeting cards becoming increasingly important to gift shops - see the Retail Barometer on pages 20-25 - the good news is that PG Live's Springboard section has been further extended for the 2017 show giving visitors looking for emerging talent at PG Live a greater varied and eclectic exhibitor mix. Visitors to the UK's only dedicated greeting card trade show, will now have access to an additional 30 new publishers and artists, meaning there will be over 160 Springboard exhibitors.

“For the third year running, demand for space in the Springboard section of PG Live has outstripped supply,” comments joint show director Warren Lomax. “We're so excited to be adding even more fantastic publishers to our portfolio, further cementing PG Live's position as the largest collection of greeting card publishers in the world.”

Known for its high energy, artistic vibe and friendly atmosphere, PG Live 2017 – which takes place on June 6 and 7 at London's Business Design Centre – attracts greeting card buyers from over 40 countries as well as major UK retail multiples and leading independents. This year, a packed exhibitor list features over 280 publishers, artists and designers from around the globe. As with previous years, all visitors will enjoy a free two course lunch, refreshments throughout the show and a free drinks party on the first night.

Record Breaking Show The IHGF Delhi Fair Spring, held in February, was recognised by the Limca Book of World Records, a reference book published in India, which chronicles people and events across different fields.

IHGF Delhi show organisers, EPCH, were congratulated by Rashmi Verma, Secretary at the Ministry of Textiles, who inaugurated the show. "Every time I visit the fair I always see new product lines, the main reason that the show is visited by such large numbers of buyers from across the globe."

Above: The inauguration ceremony at the IHGF Delhi Fair Spring.

Left: Among the visitors at last year's show.

Walking The Walk A cheque for £20,000 was presented to the Rainbow Trust children’s charity at Spring Fair by retail buying group Cardgains. The organisation, which includes a raft of gift suppliers as well as card publishers, raised the money through its 2016 charity challenge, The Edges of the Rainbow, a 20 mile walk that took place last June.

This year will see industry walkers take on the Seaside Shuffle, a 25 mile coastal walk between Whitby and Scarborough on June 22. Some 34 walkers have already signed up for the event. Email kerry@bridewelluk.co.uk for details.

Funds raised will go to Guide Dogs for the Blind, Cardgains' charity for 2017, which ties-in with its mascot Cyril Service’s new glasses, as well as the strapline ‘Focused on Independent Retailers since 1989’. A puppy has already been allocated to Cardgains and will be named Cyril.

Makers Launches At Pulse A key focus at Pulse, which takes place from May 14-16 at London's Olympia, is to help buyers to find undiscovered and unseen brands from both the UK and globally. With this in mind, new at this year's show will be Makers, a retail event that's dedicated to emerging creative talent, highlighting a fresh new wave of up and coming designer-makers who will be showcasing 150 brands.

On the international front, Found will spotlight unseen international design talent, while Brands, a new feature for 2017, will be dedicated to new product launches from 20 of the industry's most iconic brands to include Cubic, Bronte by Moon, Tatty Devine and Gentlemen's Hardware

by Wild & Wolf. With the festive season in mind, the Christmas Trail will cover what's new in gifts, stationery, decorations and interior accessories.

“From getting first choice of the new Christmas must-haves to discovering the latest unseen design talent, Pulse is designed by experts to give retailers the best tools to make an impact," says Louise Wallace, event director of Pulse. The incredible buying opportunities are complemented by an excellent conference programme in Shoptalk. With the launch of Brands and Makers, Pulse 2017 will be our most unique buying experience to date.”

Left: Visitors can expect the unexpected at Pulse.

Flying The Flag For Britain With the UK as Ambiente's partner country, and under the heading of Providence and Provenance, Scottish designer Janice Kirkpatrick shone a spotlight on outstanding British design expertise in an elaborate special exhibition within Ambiente, emphasising the regional as part of a global environment.

Adding to Ambiente's Britishness, designer Bethan Gray created an exclusive, British themed cafe. Also flying the flag for Britain was the actress Liz Hurley who visited British stands that included Wedgwood, Portmeirion Group, Arthur Price and Dartington - see Britain's Starring Role on page 31. Plus, trade organisation British Jewellery & Giftware International took a stand to highlight a further selection of British companies.

Elsewhere, 2017/2018 trends were highlighted in the Galleria revealing four themes: delicate structures (inspired by nature); honest materials (hand crafted, simple, timeless); jumbled pattern (carefree and playful) and notable shapes (classic modern elegance). l Ambiente's Partner Country for 2018 is The Netherlands.

Above: Designer Janice Kirkpatrick's British themed area at Ambiente.

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Industry News

Gift Of The Year Winners Announced There were plenty of shrieks of delight for jewellery company Shrieking Violet when the company was announced as the winner of the PG&H sponsored Fashion Jewellery & Accessories category of the 2016 Gift of the Year Awards, which were held on the first day of Spring Fair. The winning product was the company's adjustable flower rings. Highly commended in the category were Carrie Elspeth's Abstract range and Goodlookers' Changers. (See Flower Power on page 51).

Above: PG&H's advertisement manager Winners in the competition's other categories were: The Judges' Angie Bryant congratulates a delighted Lash Marash, director, Shrieking Violet.

Choice: 10 Things I Love About You personalised light box (Giggle Beaver); Body Bath and Spa: Winner: Oh K! 12 Days of Beauty (NPW); Branded & Character: Winner: Personalised Ladybird Books for Grown-ups (Signature Gifts); Cards, Wrap & Stationery: Winner: Music Box Cards (My Design Company); Commemorative & Collectable: Winner: British Colour Standard mugs (Designed in Colour); Craft & Handmade: Winner: Felt Rocking Horse kit (Corinne Lapierre); Eco Friendly: Winner: Seedball (Project Maya); Fair Trade: Winner: Tu-Tu (Believe You Can); Fine Jewellery: Winner: Petit Paragon (Anako); Food & Drink: Winner: The Homemade Curing Kit... Salmon (Ross & Ross Food); Garden & Outdoor Living: Winner: Volkswagen BBQ Hamper (Fizz Creations); Home Accessories: Winner: 10 Things I Love About You personalised light box (Giggle Beaver); Home Fragrance: Winner: Candlemaking Kit (Northumbrian Candleworks); Hot Novelty: Winner: Personalised Ladybird Books for Grown-ups; Kids & Teens: Winner: Dinner Winner Kids' Dinner Tray (KitchenCraft); Kitchen & Dining: Winner: The Lobster Apron (Lobster Homewear); Made in The UK: Winner: The Lobster Apron (Lobster Homewear); Nursery: Winner: Rufus Rabbit Bunny Bonnets (The Little Dog); Occasions: Winner: Build-a-Black Guest Book alternative; Pet: Winner: Animal Adventure (Paladone Products); Seasonal: Winner: 12 Days of Christmas Calendar (MAD Beauty); Under £10: Winner: LED Bottle Light Kit (Transomnia).

Commenting, chairman of The Giftware Association, Henri Davies, said: "growing the Gift of the Year competition is an immense privilege and pleasure, and we want to make it bigger and better. The more entries we have, the better the quality of the competition and the level of prestige for those who win."

PEOPLE p Gwen Peacock (right) has joined the national account team at Widdop And Co. to look after the company’s catalogue and home shopping channels. Gwen brings a wealth of experience with her, and will play an important role in the continued development of the sector. She joins Widdop's from Mama and Papas where she managed a number of accounts during her 7½ years with the company including Argos, Mothercare and Tesco. p Another new recruit at Widdop's is Mark Matulka (right) who has joined the company as territory manager for the North West of England and North Wales. Mark joins the company from Second Nature. His career has been spent within the greeting card and gift sector where he worked for a number of the leading names in the industry including History and Heraldry and Birthdays.

Mark takes over the area from Trevor Jones who retires at the end of March after 14 years at Widdop.

Words Of Winston It's a nail biting few weeks for Widdop And Co. The company's gifting range with Imperial War Museums, the Words of Winston Collection, launched last Autumn, has been shortlisted as a finalist in the Best Brand Licensed Gifting Range category in the B&LLA Awards. The winners will be announced at the Dorchester Hotel on April 27.

"The range is an exciting interpretation of a historic era in British history packed with encouraging and inspiring imagery and quotes across innovative new formats," comments Stephen Illingworth, product development director at Widdop And Co. Above: Widdop's Words of Winston Collection.

Sharpening Up For National Stationery Week Sharpen your pencils, it's almost time for National Stationery Week, which is being held from April 24-30 this year.

Retailers are being encouraged to embrace a Seven Days of Stationery concept with each day during the week taking on a different theme. These include Thank You Letter Thursday and Fountain Pen Friday.

This year also sees the launch of a retailer stationery display competition, which will see one lucky retailer and three runners-up winning hundreds of £pounds worth of stock courtesy of the sponsors. Retailers have been asked to dress their stores as creatively as possible using the official PoS materials. There’s still time to register at www.nationalstationeryweek.com and to receive a PoS pack and information.

Left: Retailers are being encouraged to get involved with National Stationery Week.

New Date For Tendence This year, Tendence will be taking place at the earlier dateline of June 24-27 at Messe Frankfurt. The show, the first international Autumn 2017 fair to open its doors, boasts a significantly broader product spectrum under the motto, Two Seasons, One Date, with show sectors which include Impulses

by Tendence and Outdoor Living, as well as new halls. Buyers wishing to order large quantities will be able to do so at International Sourcing.

“Our aim was and is unequivocal: growth in terms of both new exhibitors and new visitor target groups, and we are on the right track," states Tendence's group show director, Philipp Ferger.

The extensive show portfolio showcases products for the home, furnishing, decorating, giving, jewellery, fashion accessories, home textiles and outdoors, with exhibitors featuring their winter and Christmas trends. Visit www.tendence.messefrankfurt.com Above: Outdoor living will be a key part of the show.

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Industry News

Right, below and below right: Among the celebrity names at Spring Fair in February were Karren Brady, Mary Portas and Apprentice runner up Courtney Wood who is shown with the company's space rocket baby bottle.

Spring Fair Celebrities Out In Force

Visitors at Spring Fair turned out in droves to hear a strong line-up of keynote speakers who offered retail insight, personal stories and inspirational advice for business success.

Queen of Shops Mary Portas shared her strident views with a packed audience, encouraging British independent retailers to work together in order to make their high streets stronger. Recognising the challenges facing the high street today, Mary maintained that “the combined influence of a group of retailers working together could carry significant sway and be a catalyst for meaningful change."

Baroness Karren Brady, ceo of West Ham United Football Club, and Lord Sugar's right hand woman on The Apprentice, shared her six top tips for running a successful business - leadership, ambition, determination, attitude, direction and positivity - adding that, "communication is at the heart of a successful business. Your staff have to know where the business is going and why. It's about getting the people who work for you to buy into your vision."

Completing the keynote speaker line-up was Roger Saul, founder of Mulberry, who addressed the impact of currency fluctuations on UK businesses. “There is a great opportunity for British manufactures to increase exports around Europe," he stated.

Also at the show, but as an exhibitor, was 2016 Apprentice runner-up Courtney Wood, founder of Bubblegum Stuff. "It's been manic since the series finished," he told PG&H. "There's been a big upturn in sales, and we're hoping that, following Spring Fair, there will be interest from the major retailers. I'm also looking for someone who will bring experience to the company to help to increase our growth." l Dartington Crystal hosted a celebration at the show to mark the company's 50th anniversary. A special guest was Tony Laithwaite, founder and chairman of Laithwaites Wine, who recently collaborated with Dartington to create the Tony Laithwaite Signature Series of glassware.

Christmas Trends Start Here Trend forecasters Scarlet Opus will be returning to the London Stationery Show which takes place at London's Business Design Centre from April 25-26. Trend analyst Phil Pond will be revealing two main looks: Homeland for Christmas 2017 and Urban Planet for 2018. Both trends have evolved from previous seasons with Homeland featuring a handmade, crafted aesthetic, and Urban Planet showing off a metallic colour palette based on a futuristic space aesthetic. "Both will appeal strongly to stationery buyers and retailers alike," says Phil. "It's time for the retail network to focus on the consumer of the future."

Launching Their Careers The 12 winners of the first ever LaunchPad competition for stationery products have been announced. The companies will all get a chance to exhibit for free at the London Stationery Show on April 25-26 at the Business Design Centre. The competition was aimed at individuals and companies eager to break into the UK stationery industry.

“We were delighted with the response to our first LaunchPad competition and we’re keen to make it a regular part of the London Stationery Show," says Tim Willoughby, managing director at Ocean Media Exhibitions, the new organisers of the London Stationery Show. "We want to encourage and support new companies and products to come forward and showcase their ideas,” The winners are: Archivia, Berjo Creative, By Mrs Carter, David Hayward Designs, Elmo Paperstories, Foggish, My Pretty Circus, Offlines, Ortiedesign, Spots & Stripes Design, Think Trigg and Treewise.

Above: A 200 year old Russian reindeer covered desk pen from David Hayward Designs.

Left: Design-led stationery from Berjo Creative.

NEWS IN BRIEF p Walking stick specialist Classic Canes is celebrating the company's 35th birthday this year. Having started at the kitchen table, the company is now an internationally renowned family business offering over 700 walking sticks, seat sticks and umbrellas.

Right: The Classic Canes team.

p Mums top the list when it comes to gifting.

According to an Asda survey, they spend 68% more on their mothers than on gifts for their partners, with a good Mother’s Day predicted. p British Jewellery & Giftware International is looking for companies to join the UK pavilion at the HTKDC's Hong Kong Gifts & Premium Fair which takes place from April 27-30, 2017 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. Tel: 0121 237 1119. p Designers Guild has launched a home fragrance range in collaboration with Heyland & Whittle. p Professor Puzzle was placed in the top 50 of the Sunday Times Lloyds SME Export 100 league table. p Kleen-Tex Holdings (UK), the UK subsidiary of Kleen-Tex in Europa GmbH, has acquired The Turtle Mat Company. p Giftscribes recently celebrated its 10th anniversary. p The Farm Shop & Deli show takes place place from April 24-26 at the NEC. p Best of Britannia, will be holding its annual trade and consumer exhibition at The Old Truman Brewery in London's Brick Lane on October 12-13. Visit www.bestofbritannia.com p Glee is to become a biannual event following the opening of a Glee concession show at Spring Fair 2018. This will complement Glee’s main exhibition at the NEC each September. Visit www. gleebirmingham.com p Celebrity chef and restaurateur Rick Stein was among the visitors to the first day of January's Top Drawer. He was there to launch his new range Coves for BlissHome. p Italian lifestyle show HOMI, held in Milan, attracted 17,000 international buyers from 117 countries to include Russia, Japan, USA and India. (See Style The Italian Way on page 59).

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Retail Barometer 2016

A Year That Made Headlines Retail surveys are never out of the newspapers these days. Good months, bad months and indifferent months are constantly splashed across the media revealing the ups and downs of being a player on today's high streets, where a plethora of coffee shops, nail bars and tattoo parlours are the norm.

But if all you really want to know about is how independent gift retailers fared, this is revealed in the micro findings of the 11th unique PG&H independent gift retail survey that goes behind the scenes of gift retail in an extraordinary year that more than earned its place in the history books.

As you'll discover, the survey asked some tough questions as well as a few less serious ones, revealing a year that was, on balance, challenging for gift indies but also rewarding, as respondents confirm.

Two historic, unsettling events defined 2016: the Referendum which resulted in the UK's decision to leave the EU, and Donald Trump's election as President of the United States. Closer to home, an increased Minimum Wage and National Living Wage (for over 25s), as well as workplace pension regulations, came into force, along with serious rumblings about the re-evaluation of business rates which take place on April 1 this year.

Yet despite the country's decision to leave the EU last June, with many suppliers forced to hike their prices as a result due to a weak £pound against the $dollar and the €euro, independent gift retailers in general seemed to have had a reasonable year.

Some 56% of those surveyed confirmed that they had enjoyed a better year than in 2015 - the highest percentage since the survey

started 11 years ago with a further 18% saying that it was on a par. According to 56% of those who responded, (compared to 51% in 2015), the average spend Above: The UK took the increased, with 93% of respondents decision to leave the UK. introducing new product areas into their mix.

Greeting cards were fanfared as a hero product, with 55% of respondents citing them as having had a really positive effect on their bottom line.

A greater confidence in using social media in 2016 made this the top promotional tool in this year's survey, along with a traditional cross-section of marketing activities and collaborations with third parties.

As for the competition that independent gift retailers fear the most, while supermarkets and garden centres continued to be viewed as definite threats by the vast majority of those who responded, it was the omnipresent shadow of online giants such as Amazon that were the real thorn in their flesh, with over 90% seeing them as the biggest competitor.

As for 2017, 80% of respondents are confidently expecting to either grow their business or keep it to steady, but only 11% are planning to open another outlet.

So what else did PG&H's Retail Barometer reveal?

How was Christmas 2016?

If one thing's for certain, Christmas 2016 was seemingly a good one for the vast majority of independent gift retailers, with over 83% reporting that it was better than or on a par with Christmas 2015.

Compared to the previous year's festive season, the average spend increased for half of respondents, with 10% describing this as a ‘significant’ increase. And another 31% of respondents said that it matched Christmas 2015 levels.

How Did Your Business Fare Over The Last Year?

PG&H looks back at seven years of Retail Barometer data 2016 v Better Same Worse

20

2015 56% 18% 26%

2015 v Better Same Worse

2014 50% 27% 23%

PROGRESSIVE GIFTS & HOME WORLDWIDE

2014 v Better Same Worse

2013 53% 24% 23%

2013 v Better Same Worse

2012 46% 26% 28%

2012 v 2011 Better 31% Same 29% Worse 40%

2011 v Better Same Worse

2010 11% 21% 44%

2010 v Better Same Worse

2009 42% 9% 49%

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Retail Barometer 2016

Average Spend Per Customer

6% 24%

50% 20%

What effect did the general state of the UK economy have on gift sales in your shop over the last year?

Business Bugbears The UK economy remained the biggest bugbear for over half of respondents last year, followed by government legislation in the form of the new Minimum Wage, the National Living Wage and the workplace pensions scheme, resulting in higher outgoings through increased wage bills. (Last April, the minimum wage rose to ÂŁ7.20 an hour for employees aged 25 and over and is set to rise to ÂŁ7.50 this April). The workplace pension scheme too, was another inevitable pull on the purse strings. Although shop staff are seen as one of the greatest assets - see Positively Speaking - retailers nevertheless have been forced to make some serious decisions about their staffing levels.

Parking issues have continued to be a thorn in the flesh for many, encouraging people to go elsewhere where parking is either free or easier, or to shop online from the comfort of their own homes, thereby reducing much needed footfall. Competitive websites too, added additional pressures for those gift retailers with transactional websites, as did the rise and rise of discount and deep value retailers.

Interestingly, rent reviews, which were cited as having the most detrimental effect on gift retailers last year, were less of a concern for some this year, as was the expansion of gift and home products in supermarkets, along with charity shops - once the scourge of gift indies - which came lower down on the list of issues adversely affecting trading than in previous years. However, as expected, business rates remained a constant serious concern.

What main factors had a detrimental effect on your business in 2016?

What main factors had a positive effect on your business in the last year?

(Last year's figures are shown in brackets) 1 Expansion into greeting cards (9) 2 Staff (3) 3 Social media (2) 4 Promotional activity (5) 5 Diversification (1) 6 Upsurge of new customers (4) 7 Shopfit (7) 8 Online/website (8) 9 Local competition closing down (6)

Positively Speaking Over 55% of respondents concurred that greeting cards had had the most positive influence on sales last year, racing up the charts from ninth place in 2015 to take the No 1 spot in 2016. The findings clearly highlight that more and more gift retailers are expanding their card ranges both for existing customers, and also to entice new ones. A close second was the importance placed on staff, the biggest asset for any business, followed by an investment in social media, which is continuing to help to connect retailers with their customers. Promotional activities too, such as customer evenings, charity events and social media campaigns continued to have a positive impact.

In addition, over a third of respondents cited product diversification as a main factor in boosting business and attracting new customers, with a fifth highlighting the positive influence of having an online shop.

(Last year's figures are shown in brackets) The UK retail economy Parking issues The National Living Wage/Minimum Wage Competitive websites Expansion of discount/deep value retailers Competition from multiples Expansion of gift and home products in supermarkets Rent reviews Charity shops selling gifts

53% 39% 38% 38% 38% 23%

(58%) (38%) (37%) (33%) (29%) (29%)

22% (36%) 22% (67%) 17% (16%)

What effect did the increase in the national Minimum Wage and introduction of the National Living Wage (for those aged over 25) have on your business in 2016?

Last year's introduction of an increased national Minimum Wage and National Living Wage had a slightly negative effect for just over 40% of respondents, with the remainder seemingly unperturbed last year by the new legislation.

6% 7%

44%

43%

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21

20-25_New Grid 23/03/2017 15:44 Page 4

Retail Barometer 2016

3% 5%

26%

66%

What effect did the introduction of workplace pensions have on your business in 2016?

Again, two thirds of independent gift retailers who responded to the Retail Barometer survey said that the government's workplace pension scheme had not impacted on their business, although the remainder admitted that it had had a slightly negative impact.

Investing In The Future Despite all the uncertainty surrounding the EU Referendum and Brexit, gift retailers didn't hold back when it came to giving their shops a makeover.

Many invested in giving their stores a smart new look, with a partial refit undertaken by 40% of those who responded, to include new lighting and flooring, and a further 28% investing in new shop units. However, only 4% carried out a full shop refit, and only a fifth invested in their websites.

1 Partial refit 2 New shop units 3 Website 4 Computer equipment 5 EPOS equipment 6 Vehicles for the business 7 Shop extension 8 Full refit

Maybe due to other cash calls, press advertising dropped last year, with only a third of respondents taking out an ad in their local press, and none doing any TV advertising.

(Last year's chart position is in brackets) 1 In store money off/discount promotions (1) 2 Loyalty cards (3) 3 Customer evenings (5=) 4= Press advertising (2) 4= Free gift promotions (6) 5 Collaboration with other local retailers/businesses (4) 6 Charity fundraising (5=) 7 Leaflets (5=) 8 Gift voucher scheme (7) 9 BOGOF (or similar) (8) 10 Radio advertising (9)

Retail Initiatives Respondents showed their marketing mettle when it came to initiatives. Activities ranged from social media campaigns, Small Business Saturday and Black Friday events to charity fundraisers. Other retail initiatives included competitions, tombolas, treasure hunts, giveaways and seasonal incentives.

Community Spirit Which local organisations were you involved with last year?

(Last year's figures are shown in brackets) 1 Town centre retailing group 45% (55%) 2 Charities 38% (42%) 3 Schools 29% (30%) 4 Chamber of Commerce 26% (35%) 5 Federation of Small Businesses 26% (26%)

Staff Matters Retailers will not be investing hugely in new staff over the coming months revealed the Barometer. Three quarters of those who responded confirmed that staffing will remain at current levels with only 8% of respondents looking to recruit new members to the team, and 10% looking to reduce their number of workers.

Going For Promotion Almost two thirds of Barometer respondents confirmed that they had carried out some form of marketing activity, emphasising that for the majority of gift retailers, it is no longer enough to simply open the shop door. Money off/discount promotions were again way out in front for over half of respondents, with customer evenings a popular marketing tool jumping two places from last year into third place. Loyalty cards went up a notch, proving that they are still popular with customers.

22

PROGRESSIVE GIFTS & HOME WORLDWIDE

What are your expectations for your business in 2017?

Despite retail throwing down significant challenges to even the largest retailers in the country, gift independents remain confident about the next 12 months. Some 80% of respondents said they felt that their business would see growth or remain about on a par with the previous year. Sadly, approximately a fifth of those surveyed were bracing themselves for a decline this year compared to last year.

2%

4%

18%

51% 25%

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Retail Barometer 2016

Diversification

Made In Britain

When it came to diversification, one of the biggest movers and shakers in 2016 was stationery, which bounded up this year's chart from last year's No 7 to this year's No 2, with jewellery knocking impulse gifts off the top spot. The sector fell four places to No 5.

Which product areas would you like to further diversify into?

(Last year's figures are shown in brackets) 1 Jewellery (2) 2 Stationery (7) 3 Home accessories (3) 4 Fashion accessories (4=) 5 Impulse items (1) 6 Handbags (5) 7= Greeting cards (4=) 7= Children's non-toy products (10=) 7= Chocolates/confectionery (6) 8 Giftwrap (-) 9 Toys (8=) 10= Collectables (8=) 10= Partyware (8=) Below: Caroline Gardner's 10= Balloons (-) Hearts organiser.

Following the post Brexit price increases that many suppliers have been forced to introduce due to a weak £pound against other currencies, products that are made in Britain, and/or sourced locally are continuing to gain ground with independent gift retailers and their customers. (See Made in Britain on pages 33-37)

13% 35%

52%

Exhibitions Lead The Way The major trade shows remain the most important way in which gift indies source new products, with over 80% of respondents attending shows last year.

Overall, some 91% of those surveyed attended a trade show in 2016.

1 Exhibitions 2 Visit from an agent/rep 3 Reading trade magazines 4 Looking at other shops 5 Feedback from customers 6 Sourcing from the internet 7 Word of mouth

Product Matters How did the following sectors fare in 2016 compared to 2015?

(Last year's figures are shown in brackets) Category Increased Stable Bath and body 39% (37%) 37% (35%) Children’s clothing/accessories 20% (14%) 55% (50%) Collectables 17% (16%) 46% (35%) Confectionery/edible gifts 29% (31%) 42% (54%) Craft products 12% (31%) 52% (51%) Decorative home accessories 40% (45%) 53% (41%) Fashion accessories (eg scarves) 57% (55%) 30% (30%) Furniture 0% (27%) 50% (59%) Garden gifts 16% (12%) 47% (70%) Gift stationery/journals 36% (32%) 48% (54%) Greeting cards 61% (61%) 30% (32%) Giftwrap 36% (39%) 50% (46%) Home fragrancing 37% (49%) 41% (36%) Handbags 25% (30%) 47% (41%) Impulse items 32% (45%) 55% (42%) Jewellery 53% (47%) 32% (31%) Plush 24% (22%) 52% (48%) Seasonal gifts 30% (30%) 45% (47%) Tableware/kitchen gifts 14% (19%) 55% (50%) Toys & games 31% (26%) 48% (54%) Women’s fashions 21% (26%) 43% (52%)

Decreased 23% (27%) 23% (36%) 37% (49%) 29% (15%) 36% (17%) 7% (14%) 7% (15%) 50% (14%) 37% (17%) 16% (14%) 8% (7%) 14% (15%) 22% (15%) 27% (29%) 13% (13%) 14% (21%) 24% (29%) 27% (23%) 32% (30%) 20% (20%) 36% (22%)

Above: Easter card designs from Wendy Jones-Blackett include Quicksilver (left) and Fresco.

Below: Colourful jewellery for Spring/Summer from One Button.

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Retail Barometer 2016

Third Party Selling Among the 'hot potatoes' in the PG&H Retail Barometer survey was the question of suppliers selling online direct to the public, with over three quarters of respondents viewing third part selling as a threat or serious threat.

Serious threat 45% Threat 43% Neutural 12%

Do you see geographical exclusivity of supply as an issue?

Above: Among Joma Jewellery's 'A Little' sentiment bracelets.

Hero Products

Respondents confirmed that there were three key products they couldn't live without. They were, in alphabetical order, East of India hanging signs, Jellycat plush and Joma Jewellery.

54% 46%

Challenged By The Supermarkets The relentless expansion of supermarkets into home and gift products remains a threat for gift indies, with the figures largely the same as in 2015.

Online Trading How do you view the supermarkets' continuing expansion into gifts?

16%

23%

61%

Over two thirds of respondents confirmed that they now have a website, with 40% operating a transactional website. Some 58% highlighted that the website helped to drive traffic in store. In addition, almost half of those surveyed confirmed that they were planning on further developing their existing website over the next 12 months.

As for gift retailers who do not currently have a website, only a fifth of respondents intend to develop one over the coming year, with 37% still undecided.

Socially Speaking Garden Centre Growth When asked how they viewed garden centre growth in the gift and home sector, 70% of those surveyed regarded this retail sector as a threat or serious threat in line with last year's figures.

Serious threat 21% Threat 49% Neutral 30%

Social media is continuing to be the promotion tool of choice for 85% of those surveyed, with 97% using Facebook, almost half of respondents using Twitter and a third using Instagram to engage with customers.

The Sword Of Damocles Some 90% of respondents revealed that the most serious threat they faced today comes not from supermarkets, garden centres or charity shops, but from online operators such as Amazon.

Serious threat 46% Threat 44% Neutral 10%

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Retail Barometer 2016

Flashing Their Cash

Welcome Your Majesties

Customers are no longer reaching for their credit cards.

Once again, retail respondents stated that ‘cash is King’(right), with three quarters confirming cash or debit cards were the favourite way to pay.

Her Majesty The Queen (right), and Queen of Shops Mary Portas, tied for first place as the two females gift shop owners would most like to see walking through their doors. David Beckham was the winner in the male stakes, closely followed by David Attenborough.

As for the women least likely to be welcomed, it was a tie between Diane Abbott (below) and Katie Price (aka Jordan), with President Donald Trump (below) seeing a landslide victory as the man most likely to be shown the door!

Optimistic Outlook Looking ahead to the foreseeable future, almost half of respondents - 41% - feel positive or very positive about the survival of independent gift shops over the next few years.

How do you view the future of independent gift shops in the next 3-5 years?

1% 7%

27%

40%

25%

What Else You Told Us! l "We find that we do better when the economy is slightly

May We Have A Word Please?

'Challenging' remained the most commonly used word to describe the gift industry today. Among the positive descriptions were: good, improving, innovative, interesting and inspiring. Among the negative descriptions were: difficult, stagnant, fragile, precarious and struggling. Among the neutral words were: competitive, changing and wobbly.

If independent gift retailers had a magic wand, which one thing would they change about the gift and home industry?

The following were just some of the responses...

Too many rip-offs; ensure exclusivity of supply from suppliers; put a stop to the number of charity shops who buy-in and have preferential rent and rates; make it one price for everyone; prevent suppliers retailing against their customers; stop large multiples undercutting prices; end pro forma invoices; offer better margins or the same margins for independents and high street multiples; change the consumer's attitude to value for money; stop supermarkets stocking gifts; keep the smaller brands out of the big multiples; tax Amazon fairly; stop price increases on the back of Brexit; make more people serious about shopping locally with independents; there should be fewer imported goods and more products made in the UK; stop eBay and Amazon selling goods cheaper; ensure the giant internet traders pay their staff and distributors fairly and get us all back on an even keel; give us smaller carriage paid orders; decrease our overheads; originality and design should be copyrighted.

strained. Our customers tend to shop locally when things are a little tighter." l "We need to make people see that if they don't use the

high street they'll lose it." l "Suppliers need to be more accommodating to small gift

shops with smaller minimum order quantities. Little and often works much better as we can't afford to hold excess stock in small stockrooms." l "Retailers need to remove discounted pricing where there

is no need. It only cheapens brands and products." l "With difficult trading conditions, both suppliers and

retailers need to be more adaptable." l "Stop charity shops selling new products and cards. The

clue is in the title - charity, not new!" l "The Brexit vote could cripple small retailers as prices are

increasing for all stock purchases." l "It would help if consumer magazines didn't only promote

gifts using online information. It's as if they think that people don't use shops anymore." l "We cannot afford to sit back. We must keep

re-inventing ourselves." l "Have one price for everyone. Small businesses can't buy

as cheaply as some companies sell their goods for. If it costs £1 for a big business to buy it, it should cost £1 for a small business to buy it."

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Industry Issue

Business Rates

Not Highly

Rated

The British Retail Consortium (BRC) has said that the Chancellor's Budget on March 8 was a "drop in the ocean... another sticking plaster on a chronically ill patient" with short term relief measures adding complexity to an impenetrable system.

So how will Philip Hammond's decision to offer £435m for firms affected by increases in business rates, to include a £300m hardship fund for the worst hit, affect independent retailers per se, to include gift retailers? Do shop owners feel that these discretionary relief funds will be enough to protect British high streets or do they still feel under threat?

PG&H spoke to a selection gift retailers for their views.

Fixed Costs Will Increase "The introduction of the £50 a month maximum increase for those exiting the small business tax relief could help some smaller businesses that might have otherwise faced a really frightening tax jump - although, of course, they will still pay £600 more per year," comments Bob England, owner of England At Home in Brighton. "My guess is that it will not apply to many businesses, but will genuinely help those that it does. However, I don't think the Chancellor has done enough to remove the threat to high street retailers such as myself, as he did not address the disparity of taxes paid between bricks and mortar retailers and exclusively online businesses, other than to say that 'in the medium term, we need to find a way to tax the digital part of the economy'." He should have found a way to deal with this now, as it has been apparent for a number of years. Our fixed costs will go up on April 1, so we need to work to improve our offer and to sell more."

Outdated System "I'm still of the opinion that the current system of taxing business property is outdated and hasn't kept up with the changes the retail sector has experienced over the last 10 years or so," says Florian Kleinlercher, managing director of Between The Lines, which operates 13 retail outlets. "I don't mind paying my fair share of tax, but the playing field is no longer a level one. Large e-commerce players base themselves in low-tax countries and this helps them keep their prices artificially low as a result. While we love being on the high street, costs are continuously going up and it's becoming harder to absorb increases ourselves. Nevertheless, I don't consider non-domestic rates to be a particular 'threat' to my business any more than some of the other potential challenges we have to watch out for," Florian continues. "Keeping our ranges fresh and updated regularly, working continuously on the quality of our customer service, and keeping the stores looking good and fresh is just as, if not more important, as they are the real drivers behind our success and growth. As a result of the revaluation, across all our sites we will be paying an extra £10,250 this year. Not a disastrous amount but still rather unwelcome and we will be looking for extra efficiency and cost savings within the business to offset this."

Could the Chancellor have done more to help independent businesses? Florian believe there could have been more emphasis on creating a tax system that is actually fit for purpose. "There needs to be a shift to increase the tax contributions from large e-commerce operations based abroad, so that they are charged on all their sales in the UK," he comments.

"They should also be stopped from being able to offset bogus licence fees or other similar charges against their profits, thus largely avoiding corporation tax here in the UK." Top: Chancellor Philip Hammond.

Above right: Between The Lines.

Left: England At Home.

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ladedaliving

La De Da! Living enquiries@ladedaliving.co.uk 01242 250 653 trade.ladedaliving.co.uk

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Industry Issue

Business Rates

Below: All Good Gifts, South London.

Taking It To Appeal "Since receiving my revised business rates bill on March 15 I have literally felt sick!" admits Germaine Brookes, owner of Peppermnt Pig in Cleckheaton. "I cannot believe that several months on from last year's Budget announcement, where I felt elated that business rates would become fairer, that it is now not the case.

"In October last year, we were encouraged by our local Chamber of Trade to look up the new local council's business rates estimate for 2017," continues Germaine. "I did so by entering my postcode and address. Up popped my address with the rateable value and the central government multiplier and then the figure of £475 per year! Amazing!

That was a fabulous saving of £5,500 on the existing year's amount.

Six whole months on, and with certain plans and necessary expenditures in place, the new business rates bill arrived and I found, to my horror, that it was a staggering £5,708.50!

How can you have an estimate of £475 and then be billed for £5,708.50 and it not Above: Peppermint Pig. have an impact on your sanity or wellbeing?

"Business has been hard enough over the past 12 months and there is no pleasure anymore in running a small retail business, as competition from both online and major discount stores is crushing the life out of us. At Peppermint Pig we are going to fight the local council.

Instead of penalising local businesses we will make them aware of how valuable we are to the community. It takes guts and determination to set up a small business and the Chancellor has come along and quashed all those peoples hopes and dreams, not to mention livelihoods."

Drop In Rates?

"We were expecting our rates to double, but it looks as though we may see a drop of £1,000," says Jackie Humphrey, owner of Dragonfly in Cheam. "But even though it's the middle of March, nothing has been confirmed yet, and I do feel that we should have been given more notice. Businesses need to be able to pre-plan, and it is very poor that we still haven't received anything in black and white. If we do end up saving £1,000 it is significant to us, as it means we have the option of taking on another member of staff, or to renew our website or do some things internally in order to rejuvenate the business. Therefore until we get our new business rates in writing, we will be holding fire."

Below: Dragonfly, Cheam.

Another Nail In The Coffin "I think the phrase is, another nail in the coffin for independent retailers," says Matt Shearing, director, All Good Gifts in Battersea. "Our shop on Northcote Road hasn't been too badly hit, probably because our rates doubled during the recession so we are already at the top of the curve. Therefore I think the businesses that will suffer most from the re-evaluation are those in surrounding areas such as Balham where property values were undervalued and have since jumped massively."

Adds Matt: "The government has plans to support people coming out of low rateable values, but in London, the rateable value has been low - less than £12,500 - and is now £15,000. From our perspective, it makes no difference as our rateable value for 2017 is £49,000, having jumped from £23,000 in 2005 to £46,000 in 2010. In truth, I think business rates are less of a priority for the government at the moment, who are more concerned about sorting out the Brexit mess."

Eye Watering Increase "We're based in The Highlands so business rates are a matter which have been devolved to the Scottish Government since 1999," explains Helen Crawford, co-owner, The Old School Beauly. "We would have warmly welcomed Mr Hammond's restriction on the impact on small businesses as it would have saved us £thousands! The Scottish Government has selected to protect only certain sectors and regions and none of these relate specifically to retail. The increase in our little village of Beauly is 26%. However, our shop is just a shade larger than the average and this means we will lose the Small Business Bonus Scheme Discount.

Accordingly, our effective increase is actually an eye watering 76%!"

Helen adds that the approach taken by the Scottish Government has been to Above: Helen Crawford, owner, raise the level whereby a business pays no The Old School Beauly. rates whatsoever. "It's a great vote winner," she points out. "Of course, the amount raised overall still needs to be the same, so anyone who is perceived to be bigger is carrying the burden for the surrounding small businesses. For example, in our village, only four businesses will pay rates with the bulk of the remaining businesses paying no rates whatsoever. We feel this is fundamentally inequitable and that each and every business should contribute something, no matter how small. We and the other larger businesses are appealing, as are thousands of businesses across Scotland. Our understanding is that there are so many appeals already lodged that it will take many years to hear each and every one. Another aspect which has confused us, and many others, is that certain areas have seen a massive increase -such as ours - while other areas have seen a decrease, but this does not seem to reflect actual property lets or sales in those areas."

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Progressive Gifts Ad March 17.pdf 1 23/02/2017 12:33:11

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A Global Perspective

Britain’s Starring Role With the UK selected as Ambiente's ‘Partner Country’ at this year’s February show, the quintessentially British actress Liz Hurley - currently playing the part of Queen Helena in US TV's The Royals - was chosen to grace the show with her 'Royal' presence.

As the flashbulbs popped, PG&H joined the battery of photographers and journalists who followed the glamorous actress and former model on her whirlwind tour of the fair, where she was accompanied by Messe Frankfurt's Member of the Executive Board (and somewhat starstruck!) Detlef Braun.

It's not every day that exhibitors and visitors to a trade show - albeit the largest consumer goods show in the world - get to meet British 'Royalty', but there were certainly a few heads turned on exhibition stands, and in the aisles, when Liz Hurley, the British actress-cum-designer and business woman, shimmied down the halls in a figure-hugging blue dress and the highest of stiletto heels! The reason Liz was there was to fly the flag for British business at the show, as well as to visit some of the most internationally renowned and historic British brands exhibiting at the fair.

At Wedgwood - which is now a part of the Fiskars Living Business division - Eva Zeigler, the new global marketing director, showed Liz the company's brand new Wonderlust collection. "It's a combination of ceramic giftware and teas inspired by travel in the 18th century and the Wedgwood pattern archive," explained Antony Robson, senior market manager, UK and Ireland.

At Portmeirion Group, the actress revealed she had some fond memories of one of its ranges. "Liz Hurley was particularly interested in our new licensed launch, Sara Miller London Portmeirion, and in the history of our brands, manufacturing process and our rich Made in Britain heritage," commented Steve Richardson, export sales manager Europe for Portmeirion. "But it was our Spode Blue Italian collection that brought back wonderful memories, as it was a range her mother once owned and used."

Looking delighted, Liz enthused: "This is pure nostalgia for me and I must get myself this Top: Liz Hurley chats to Eva Zeigler, global marketing director, on the Wedgwood stand.

Above: Spode's Blue Italian caught Liz's eye.

Left: Liz with Portmeirion's Steve Richardson (right).

Right: Simon Price presents the actress with a commemorative gift.

range," with Steve proud to present her with a gift of the Blue Italian trinket box she was holding. The actress was also photographed holding the new Sara Miller mug from Portmeirion's Chelsea collection.

Continued Steve: "As well as hearing about the Made in Britain story, Liz was very receptive and seemed interested in the manufacturing process too, not realising that the UK was still in production in such a big way."

Liz's tour of the show also included a visit to Dartington Crystal, with the company not only celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, but also returning to Ambiente after a 15 year break. "We were delighted that Liz chose to visit our stand and liked our British made products," commented managing director Neil Hughes. "The show was already busy for us, and Liz Hurley's appearance added to the buzz that day."

At Arthur Price, one of Britain’s oldest manufacturing companies, Liz was greeted by ceo Simon Price. "She was very interested in what we made, and it was a pleasure to also tell her about our long family history," commented Simon. "The team showed her around the stand and she was given a limited edition Arthur Bear cuddly toy as a memento."

What did Liz think of the show overall, where she also visited the Meissen, Khala and Rosle stands? “The range at Ambiente was amazing!," she enthused. "I love power shopping, and here there were so many different styles, shapes and structures, so wow! Now I know what a trend factory looks like from inside!”

Talking about what inspires her own home, Liz revealed: “A home that is not only beautiful, but underlines its inhabitant’s personality, is a source of inspiration," she highlighted. “As an actress, inspiration is one of the key elements of success to me. So looking at gifts, tabletop and home accessories was very exciting for me."

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Spotlight On... Made In Britain

Proud To Be

British With the post Brexit fall of the £pound against the $dollar and the €euro, British goods have never been better placed for export, with a Made in Britain back stamp a magnet for international retailers.

From ceramics made in Stoke in Trent and glassware manufactured in Devon, to jewellery and slate made in Wales, and textiles manufactured in Northern Ireland, it's all to play for say British manufacturers.

Despite the mass exodus to outsource products in China some15 years ago, there were many British companies in the gift industry who chose to keep their feet - and their manufacturing firmly on British soil. In fact, true to the saying of 'what goes around comes around', it is now products that have been made in Britain that are proving the most sought after by retailers across the board, as well products that have been locally sourced.

From packaging and in store PoS to gift ties and labels, it's all about flying the flag and helping retailers to do the same.

Warren Gell, Portmeirion Group's head of UK sales, says that the company's Made in Britain back stamp has always been an important selling point both in the UK and overseas. "We're finding that consumers are looking for brands with provenance in design, manufacture and quality," he explains, "and our factory certainly remains busy fulfilling orders for products made in 'Stoke-on-Trent, England'. Gift retailers are responding to consumer demands for brands that have heritage and authenticity, and by

Left: Burleigh's Blue Regal Peacock tier cake stand comes in gift packaging with provenance.

Right: Churchill's Alex Clark Wildlife dinnerware.

selling products made locally, they can offer something unique. The provenance of a product carries a huge amount of value and, for our brands, Stoke-on-Trent is regarded as the capital of ceramics – something that adds value to our products," he emphasises.

At Burleigh, which was established in Stoke-on-Trent in 1851, the company's business team leader, Jim Norman, says that although the company is seeing increasing demand for Burleigh from domestic and export customers, it is not easy to attribute this just to Burleigh's English provenance.

"Buyers and consumers are increasingly inquisitive about what stands behind the Made in England message. But how it’s made can be just as important as where it’s made," says Jim. "Every piece of Burleigh is made with craftsmanship at the Middleport Left: Portmeirion’s Botanic Blooms tableware is a modern interpretation of the company's iconic Botanic Garden design.

Pottery using skills that are unique to Burleigh. It’s also important to recognise that the growing demand for British produce can’t be separated from the foreign exchange rates that make the company's wares more attractive," Jim adds.

"Made in Britain is definitely a selling point, to both UK and export markets. The British consumer wants to support British industry where possible, especially with the recent economic changes," says Churchill's Danielle Birch, marketing communications.

"Equally, export markets buy into Made in Britain because they have faith in our experience in producing good quality ceramics. Given the positive views that the consumer has on UK made products it is something that should definitely be highlighted and nowhere is better than the permanent back stamp." She points out that locality is of particular importance to the company. "We are proud of our heritage Progressive Gifts & Home Worldwide

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Celebrate with Dartington

5255c Silver =grey 30% black

The Best of Great British Gifts Tel: 01805 626226 • www.dartington.co.uk • sales@dartington.co.uk Gifts Focus Spring Fair 2017 advert.indd 1 34_GH_March April 2017.indd 34

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Spotlight On... Made In Britain

through being in the heart of the Potteries. Again, this is of particular interest to a lot of customers, especially those who are familiar with the area."

"More and more customers are questioning where products are made," says Dunoon's sales director Peter Smith. "We have experienced this on overseas markets for years, but it is becoming more important with UK customers. Consumers too, are also questioning where goods are made, with many associating Made in England with great design and excellent quality," he continues. "In fact, Dunoon is becoming more and more unique as one of the few pottery companies still making in the UK. We use clay from Cornwall, with our Cornish customers able to use this as a selling point for Dunoon as there is a trend towards sourcing locally."

Left: A mug in Dunoon's Cairngorn Hoopla range.

Below left: Dartington has added significant new elements of hand crafted crystal in celebration of its 50th anniversary.

Shown is a special gold trimmed edition of the company's classic Dimple barware.

Right: A big trends for Stoneglow in 2017 is the Gift of Giving, featuring Occasion candles and diffusers.

Below right: La De Da Living's Pop fragrance collection.

At Devon based Dartington, where the company is currently celebrating its 50th anniversary, managing director Neil Hughes says that the first thing that the company is keen to highlight, as a truly British brand, is that Dartington manufactures its crystal in the UK. "We still have to offer great designs and good value of course, but Made in Britain has certainly achieved a higher profile in recent years. How and where products are made are a part of the brand appeal and justification for buying, with many of our customers saying that they feel good about offering our UK crafted products. Plus, they always enjoy visiting the factory here in Devon. Seeing the crystal being made helps them enthuse about, and sell, Dartington to their own customers."

In the home fragrancing sector, British manufacturers are proud to emphasise their Made in Britain credentials. "All our products either carry the Union Jack or Made in the UK stamp," confirms Stoneglow's account development manager Louise Dooley. "It's a very strong, key selling point with customers, as it shows British made quality. As people become more and more conscious of their carbon footprint, so buying locally has increased dramatically. As a supplier, we

Made In Ireland "Many of our customers have been directly requesting goods that have been made in the UK or Europe," confirms Pam Harper, UK business development manager at Ulster Weavers. "This is particularly important in the tourist driven sectors of the market. In fact, we brought production back to Northern Ireland specifically to address this growing demand.

"However, if a retailer depends on tourism as the main consumer, then made in UK/Europe is of some importance, but not exclusively. We are supplying a mix of UK produced and overseas sourced products to many of our retailers."

Right: RHS Foliage from Ulster Weavers. Products are manufacturer in Ireland.

carry the same mantra and also try to source as many materials as we can locally. We have also recently started to supply point of display leaflets that go with our products in stores. These feature our manufacturing information so that customers can see how we create our products. We also supply acrylic logo blocks and display cabinets with Stoneglow Candles London on them. This keeps every aspect of Stoneglow locally sourced for retailers and gives customers instant piece of mind."

Dominique Fracasso-Stroud, director, La De Da Living, reinforces that any products that can be locally manufactured not only invariably add a superior quality, but also support British manufacturing and employment. "For example, our entire fragrance collection is manufactured in the UK which gives us full control over quality, plus, from a more practical view, we can be more accurate on delivery times and availability. UK gift retailers are becoming increasingly interested in products that have been made locally because usually, these products offer a more unique variety rather than an ‘off the shelf’ product," she underlines.

Bath and body products too, are often quintessentially British. "Over the last couple of years, the call for Made in Britain products Continued on page 37

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Carrie Elspeth H A N D M A D E

I N

WA L E S

Please get in touch for our new full colour Summer catalogue

e sales@carrieelspeth.com | t 01446 771271 | w www.carrieelspeth.com

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Spotlight On... Made In Britain

Left: Rose & Co. is distributed in the UK

by Joe Davies.

Below left: Onion from Bailey Laine.

Below right: British brand Haynes from Signature Gifts was recently highly commended in the 2017 Gift of the Year's Made in the UK category.

has seen an increase, with more UK retailers wanting to get on board," says Joe Davies' managing director Steve Davies. "Our Rose & Co beauty range is handmade in the UK, with customers both in the UK and internationally appreciating that this innovative range is locally sourced, using only the finest ingredients that are vegan friendly

and not tested on animals. This year’s new additions are as luxurious as ever," highlights Steve, "featuring three new fragrances in hand cream and bath tartelettes, with the addition of body sprays." Another new addition for Joe Davies is Zambuk Herbal Soap which follows in the footsteps of the company's Zambuk ointment.

"Retailers buy from us already knowing that that their customers want to buy British products and brands, so sourcing quality items that have been Made in Britain becomes a buyer focus," says Katie Mallalieu, founder of British luxury woollen home furnishings and women's apparel brand Bailey Laine, a subsidiary of Mallalieus of Delph. "The same is true for consumers.

European customers in particular are eager to buy British. I think local is a huge selling point for retailers," adds Katie. "One of the main questions we are asked is whether our products are made locally alongside the fact that they are British made."

"More and more, it seems that people are looking for accountability in the manufacturing of their goods, and the gift market is no different," highlights Kat Grant, copywriter, PR and sales support at Signature Gifts. "Not only is this from an ethics point of view, where the use of sweatshops in other countries is concerning,

Top Tips l "Retailers should be shouting from the rooftops about Made in Britain/Made in Wales, with signage and point of sale that suppliers would be only too happy to contribute to, or even supply outright." Carrie Elspeth, founder and creative director, Carrie Elspeth l "Using social media, along with good visual merchandising and informative customer service, it is easy to let consumers know that the business supports UK made products." Dominique FracassoStroud, director, La De Da Living

but this is also now becoming a matter of British pride. We are immensely proud that every product we make is created on British soil, either within our Scottish or Stoke based factories. Becoming a supplier of British brands is a massive plus."

Made In Wales "Making products in Wales has always been at the core of our philosophy and our marketing, but we have seen a real growth in the appetite for specifically British made products, especially since Brexit," comments Carrie Shapiro, founder and creative director of Carrie Elspeth. "When analysing what our new customers have been looking for, ‘British made’ is high on their wish list. In fact, this summer could be a real bonanza for such products, with more British staycations and the likely increase in foreign tourism due to the favourable exchange rates."

Carrie concurs that an increasing number of UK gift retailers are becoming interested in products that have been made locally. "You can see this down to the micro level as well as the national level, Inset: Carrie Elspeth's with John Lewis recently introducing a ‘locally made’ section. Many independents have been following Abstract necklace.

Left: Welsh Slate's Fine similar schemes for years, but the trend is definitely growing. As long as supply is reliable then there collection includes a fish is real potential. People want to buy into a story and when the story is that it was made locally it's a shaped plate. real selling point."

Nicki Oakes, finance director of Welsh Slate, which produces Welsh slateware, says that one of the main benefits of producing in the UK is the company's ability to react quickly to customer demands. "We can generally ship all orders from stock in less than a week," she confirms. "Our products are all hand-finished, so there is a certain amount of time taken to achieve that result, but we don’t have products ‘on the water’ and unable to reach customers’ shelves and have increasingly noticed that Made in Britain has become as important with the home market. The Welsh Slateware story - the only slate quarried, designed and produced in the UK - is a real point of difference for retailers."

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‘Watercolour Britain’

by Diz Andrews.

High quality textiles, fine bone china & British made Giftware.

STUART MORRIS LIMITED tel: 01473 824212 // email: info@stuartmorris.co.uk // www.stuartmorris.co.uk

Stylish British Made Giftware ‘Honey Bee’ and ‘Summer Fruit’ Designs

by Colette Bishop.

Fine Bone China Tea/Giftware.

CHRISTOPHER DAWSON HERITAGE LIMITED Contact: Paul Travis tel: 07909 539574 // email: paul@cdheritage.com // www.cdheritage.com

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What’s New Progressive Gifts & Home highlights some of the British made gift products to be showcased this month.

Watercolour Britain Watercolour Britain by Diz Andrews is Stuart Morris’s first off the shelf venture offering vivid, splashy, watercolours featuring 32 counties focusing on famous landmarks, beautiful buildings and scenes from the seaside and countryside. Watercolour of Britain designs are available on British made cotton tea towels, aprons, tote bag and canvas shopping bags supported by fine bone china mugs and giftware. To get your local sales agent to call, and for full details of Stuart Morris products and services, please contact below.

Stuart Morris Tel: 01473 824212 Email: info@stuartmorris.co.uk www.stuartmorris.co.uk

Vivid Vases The distinctive artworks of Leslie Gerry are the latest choice in the best-selling ceramic vase range for John Beswick. The LG animal range features vivid, contemporary illustrations of popular pets and wildlife set on bold backgrounds. Reproduced on high quality ceramic shapes, these colourful vases make a vibrant new choice to the Leslie Gerry gift and homewares product offer. Pictured is the Spaniel vase (24cm height) and Collie (27 cm).

Each vase is presented in a gift box.

Dartington Crystal Tel: 01805 626226 Email: sales@dartington.co.uk www.dartington.co.uk

Designer Giftware That's Different Christopher Dawson Heritage further expands the newly launched British Heritage Collection Summer Fruits and Honey Bee ranges by Colette Bishop, adding a range of British made moulded melamine and British textiles. The melamine products include placemats, coasters and trays with quality British cotton fabric tea towels, aprons and tote bags. The new additions to the existing fine bone china range includes mugs, plates, teapots, cups and saucers. To get your local sales agent to call, and for full details of the British Heritage Collection giftware ranges, please contact below.

CD Heritage Tel 07909 539574 Email paul@cdheritage.com www.cdheritage.com

Celebrating The Lakes It’s time to kick off your muddy boots and fill your senses with the spectacular views, bracing cool air and sounds and scents of the English Lake District. In a place of awe-inspiring natural beauty, there is no shortage of inspiration. Our Lakes Collection is a way for us to say thank you to the place we are lucky enough to call home.

Wax Lyrical Tel: 01229 461111 Email: info@waxlyricaltrade.com www.waxlyricaltrade.com

A Humorous Take It’s no secret that the British are well known for their sense of humour and Wax Lyrical’s new playful addition, Enter-Tin-Ment, has captured British humour perfectly in four wax filled tins. These ideal last minute purchases will draw the right kind of attention placed next to any till point while maintaining the slow burn time and quality fragrance throw (both hot and cold) expected by this stalwart British brand.

Wax Lyrical Tel: 01229 461111 Email: info@waxlyricaltrade.com www.waxlyricaltrade.com

Man Appeal Brew Craft from Dartington is a great gift idea for beer drinkers. Each handmade glass is matched to a classic style of brew, with favourites for real ale, lagers, stout and a special cider glass completing the collection. Each shape is designed to give the best taste experience from every sip or sup. The ribbed design feature in the base keeps the glass sitting snug in the hand and easy to handle. A great gift for men and perfect for Father's Day, each Brew Craft piece is presented in an attractive gift box.

Dartington Crystal Tel: 01805 626226 Email: sales@dartington.co.uk www.dartington.co.uk PROGRESSIVE GIFTS & HOME WORLDWIDE

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THE LAKES COLLECTION

•AVAILABLE NOW• 01229 461166 • www.waxlyricaltrade.com • info@waxlyricaltrade.com

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What’s New Progressive Gifts & Home highlights some of the British made gift products to be showcased this month.

A Glass Of Sangria?

Summer’s just around the corner so what better way to think about sand, surf and sangria than with Coastal Breeze candles. Seriously scented with fresh ginger, clove and patchouli, they create the aroma of the seas, and the shell toppings complete a great presentation. Denise Edwards of Best Kept Secrets said: "There’s lots to choose from in our range of Summer Seriously Scented candles, including Florals, Smoothies and Summer Fruits. Sorry no Sangria."

Best Kept Secrets Tel: 01670 512222 Email: sales@bestkeptsecrets.co.uk www.bestkeptsecrets.co.uk

Runaway Success Just Because, launched with great success at Spring Fair, is a collection of fun occasion candles to celebrate friends and family. Lovely Lovely Mum, Special Friend, Prosecco Princess or just to say ‘Thank You’. Denise Edwards of Best Kept Secrets said: "Just Because has demonstrated a real gap in the market for a fun product with an important message for those we care about."

Best Kept Secrets Tel: 01670 512222 Email: sales@bestkeptsecrets.co.uk www.bestkeptsecrets.co.uk

Great British Gibsons Established in 1919, Gibsons is the oldest British jigsaw puzzle and board games company, and still manufacture many of their products right here in the UK, the first of which is the range that was inspired by the popular, multi-award winning show The Great British Bake Off. Licensed by Love Productions, Gibsons introduced the 1000 piece and 500 piece jigsaws to their range last year. Both jigsaws portray a montage of classic scenes from the show, from Selasi’s jaw-dropping bontanical cake to Andrew’s innovative Ferris-wheel mousse cakes.

Moreover, both puzzles are packaged in beautifully designed boxes that feature the iconic Bake Off tent and lots and lots of bunting! The 500 piece jigsaw is presented in a compact square gift box that measures 16x16cm, making it the perfect gift size.

Gibsons Tel: 020 8661 8866 Email: sales@gibsonsgames.co.uk www.gibsonsgames.co.uk

Proudly Made In Wales!

Summer sees Carrie Elspeth add more beautiful designs to her stunning bestselling jewellery collection. With gorgeous branded packaging and versatile point of sale, these adorable adornments in bright Summer colours are keeping pace with the latest trends and will undoubtedly put a smile on your customers' faces!

Approaching her 18th year of manufacturing in Wales, Carrie is determined to make 2017 a year of celebration, so keep an eye out for all her latest promotions. Call the studio for the latest full colour summer brochure.

Carrie Elspeth Tel: 01446 771271 Email: sales@carrieelspeth.com www.carrieelspeth.com

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Call 01670 512222 Email sales@bestkeptsecrets.co.uk

Just Because Candles

Always Seriously Scented!

Best Kept Secrets, Coopies Field, Morpeth, Northumberland, NE61 6JT Tel: 01670 512222 Email: sales@bestkeptsecrets.co.uk www.bestkeptsecrets.co.uk 42_GH_March April 2017.indd 1

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What’s New Progressive Gifts & Home highlights some of the British made gift products to be showcased this month.

Shades Of Grey Sultry, moody, chic and contemporary sums up Stoneglow’s exciting new Metallique collection of tumbler candles and reed diffusers. Four tantalising new fragrances – Bois et Vanille, Truffle D’Orient, Rose Ambre and Fleur Aquatica - are stylishly housed in grey glassware and grey textured packaging accented with copper branding to complement all interiors.

Stoneglow Candles Tel: 0208 595 8878 Email: sales@stoneglowcandles.co.uk www.stoneglowcandles.co.uk

All Lit Up These light boxes are illuminatingly unique, the first of their kind and individually personalised for each customer. They are robust, extremely high quality and designed and manufactured in house. Each one is made from painted MDF with a solid frosted acrylic front, with the personalisation printed on an acrylic film. They can be hung or stood anywhere in the house, and the LED strips will shine bright for a long time. With six colourways to choose from they are a truly individual product, completely unique to each customer.

Giggle Beaver Tel: 01926 819333 Email: sales@gigglebeaver.com www.gigglebeaver.com

Made In The UK Joe Davies is proud to be working in partnership with Rose and Co. Made in the UK from natural products, the Rose and Co collection consists of a huge range of products including, bath bombs, body mist sprays, soaps, fantastic hand creams and bath melts. Everything is beautifully packaged making the collection easy to display and a pleasure to receive. With a variety of fragrances to suit all tastes and occasions there is something for everyone in this best-selling range. As with Joe Davies’ entire collection of 8,500 lines, the Rose and Co collection is available using their trademark Little & Often order system, with a minimum order of just £100 and free delivery.

Joe Davies Tel: 0161 975 6300 Email sales@joedavies.co.uk www.joedavies.co.uk

New Summer Fragrance A new fragrance, Water Flower & White Woods, has been added to Stoneglow’s Modern Classics collection of candles and home fragrance products.

Evoking memories of summer lakes and riverside strolls, Water Flower & White Woods combines green and watery floral scents with lemon, bergamot and herbal hints of thyme, nutmeg and clove.

These mingle with woody undertones of rosewood, cedar, fir and sandalwood.

Stoneglow Candles Tel: 0208 595 8878 Email: sales@stoneglowcandles.co.uk www.stoneglowcandles.co.uk

Floral Animals Introducing the stunning range of Floral Animals by Kat Baxter.

Kat is the deserved winner of Wraptious' most recent competition, which included over 500 entries. Based in Dundee, Scotland, Kat's drawings come from a love of flora and fauna. The range includes cards, vegan-suede cushions, clocks, mugs, coasters and fine art prints. All our products are produced in the UK and on recycled or sustainable resources where possible. This is fundamentally important to us.

Wraptious Email: trade@wraptious.com Tel: 0161 221 0109 www.wraptious.com PROGRESSIVE GIFTS & HOME WORLDWIDE

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In Profile: Christopher Dawson Heritage

A Part Of

Britain's Heritage

One of the most positive sides of Brexit has been that overseas tourists are continuing to flock to Britain, enjoying among other attractions, the very best of our superb cultural heritage. As a result, the tills have been ringing up sales in their gift shops across the UK, with retail undoubtedly making a substantial contribution to the upkeep of the properties.

For some visitors, both domestic and international, a low cost fridge magnet, tea towel or stationery item makes the perfect souvenir or gift. For others, it's about finding that bespoke, quality, 'something special' item that relates to the attraction, providing them with something unique.

"That's where Christopher Dawson Heritage comes in," explains marketing and sales director Paul Travis.

Visitor attractions, museums and heritage sites, are, and always have been, a 'must visit' for tourists of all ages, both domestic and international. From wide eyed schoolchildren going on their first big culture trip, to overseas visitors coming to gaze in awe at England's castles, palaces, cathedrals, museums, art galleries and zoos, there's always the inevitable visit to the gift shop as they exit, with few able to resist buying a souvenir to remind them of their visit. For excited youngsters with a few ÂŁpounds to spend, there are plenty of pocket money souvenirs to tempt them. For other more well heeled visitors, as well as the UK's own 'grey' market, however, it's the more Above left: Paul Travis.

Above right: Stuart Morris tea towels.

Right: King's College bespoke fine china.

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Progressive Gifts & Home Worldwide

prestigious quality giftware that features on their self-purchase and/or gift wish list.

Six years ago, Gary Dawson, a former country manager for Pepsi Cola in Russia, with a strong product marketing background, founded Christopher Dawson Heritage in response to a request from the National Trust. The Trust was looking for a company

to fill the gap for a one stop supplier across a variety of product sectors for specific properties including The Giant's Causeway in Northern Ireland, Chartwell House and Greenway in Kent. "The brief was very specific," explains Paul Travis, the recently appointed sales and marketing director of Christopher Dawson Heritage. "The National Trust wanted one company that it could go to and buy fine bone china, melamine, textiles and more general giftware. I became involved last summer having worked for Hudson of England, manufacturers of fine bone china - a then supplier to Christopher Dawson Heritage - and melamine manufacturers Coleshill Plastics. When Hudson of England went into administration last June, and Christopher Dawson Heritage lost its supply chain for fine bone china, I was able to step in, immediately recognising that there was a broader product opportunity for the company."

The company's manufacturing USP, highlights Paul, is that it supplies a range of traditionally designed, quality giftware specifically for the heritage sector.

Christopher Dawson Heritage works closely with client owned imagery to produce products that are specific to an individual property or retailed across a range of sites. The company also has an experienced in house illustrator team creating artwork for specific clients. "Our market is the midend souvenir market where people want to purchase something specific relating to the attraction that they are visiting.

Our role is that of a one-stop shop that delivers a design that's sourced and manufactured in the

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In Profile: Christopher Dawson Heritage UK, with one set up cost per design across a range of products. Importantly for our customers, because we're not competing with the Far East, we can turn a project round from start to finish in 8-12 weeks."

Paul adds that although some of Christopher Dawson Heritage's products are available from other companies, from the customer's perspective, instead of having to deal with multiple suppliers, they can source everything they need from a single source and quickly.

Fine bone china is sourced from Ceramic Designs a quality china manufacturer in Stoke on Trent, and melamine from Paul's former company, Coleshill Plastics in Coventry. Textiles are sourced from Stuart Morris, based in Ipswich. "We've worked at building very strong relationships with all our suppliers," Paul emphasises. "Ultimately, as a niche

company, we are supplying something different to heritage retail operations who all want to be unique," he states. "We pride ourselves on being able to offer products that can't be found on the high street. All the heritage sectors, from Canterbury Cathedral and Kings College Cambridge to the British Museum, want ranges that are bespoke to them."

Continues Paul, "people visit heritage gift shops and shop online because they are destination outlets and they want lovely, unique items which have been designed and made in Britain rather than in China. For example, at Longleat, we were commissioned to produce a tableware collection for Emma's Kitchen, a feature created by Emma, Viscountess Weymouth, which celebrates 400 years of cooking and recipe creation at the safari park. At the other end of the spectrum, for visitors across the board simply looking for small, quality bespoke souvenir giftware to

Christopher Dawson Heritage: The Lowdown

Above: Coasters from the British Heritage Collection.

Below: British Heritage Collection's William Morris design.

take home with them, we are looking to produce items such as ladies' mirror compacts and men’s cufflinks."

As well as developing new business opportunities, Paul's marketing remit also includes giving Christopher Dawson Heritage a route to market. "This includes having a presence at trade shows where earlier this year we exhibited at Top Drawer in London, Scotland's Trade Fair Spring in Glasgow and the ACE show in Edinburgh, as well as investing in trade advertising, two marketing areas that had not been explored before. We are also working on the creation of a British Heritage Collection website, which will launch later this year."

Meanwhile, on the sales front, he has been busy setting up an American style agent/rep group. "The sales team will represent not just Christopher Dawson Heritage, but also, the company's textile supplier Stuart Morris, as well as Virtual Candles which distributes Luminara, which recently launched the world's first fragrance diffusing candle. With the

l Christopher Dawson Heritage, based in Whitley Bay, designs and produces a range of bespoke, high quality gifts for the British heritage market as well as independent high street retailers. l Clients include the National Trust England; the National Trust Scotland; the British Museum; Longleat and St Edmundbury Cathedral. l Currently, the company is also manufacturing a collection for the wildlife artist and photographer Robert Fuller, and working with numerous illustrators, offering them a range of giftware with a special focus on those that are new and upcoming. l The company has also launched its own British Heritage Collection

relationships we're developing between the three companies, the sales team certainly have plenty of good opportunities going forward."

Independent gift retailers too, are a growing market. "For example, we are putting three bespoke fine bone china ranges into the Living Room furniture outlets," he explains.

Export too, is another strong potential growth area, with the company already exporting to Australia and Canada, with the Far East - known for being very traditionally British - also in the frame.

Looking ahead, Paul says that the future for the business is to develop niche markets offering designer driven products that are supported by good customer service. "We do what we do very well and have quadrupled the size of the business in just six months. The opportunity for growth is big enough to take the company wherever it wants to go. It is all about knowing your market and staying within it, as well as being very good at what you do."

At The Heart Of Art Last Autumn, following customer demand, Christopher Dawson Heritage launched its own British Heritage Collection, an off the shelf range of heritage products that have a focus on renowned British artists to include Charles Rennie Macintosh and William Morris. In addition, the company is also bringing out products by designers such as Colette Bishop and Matt Edwards. "Although, personally, I can't draw a straight line," Paul quips, "I can recognise something that's commercial."

The company is also working with upcoming young UK artists to give them their first step up on the commercial ladder. "There are lots of illustrators, particularly in the greeting card sector, who are looking to licence their designs for mugs and coasters, as well as having products manufactured for themselves," he points out. "So the growth plan is to recognise opportunities that arise through working with new artists while remaining true to our product field."

Above: Summer Fruits fine bone china mug by artist Colette Bishop.

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Beautiful Lifestyle Giftware Home and garden gifting inspired by iconic British designs

Tel: 01963 269077 Fax: 01963 402060 sales@briersltd.co.uk www.briersltd.co.uk

SPARKLE AND SHINE The unique Sparkling Harmony collection brings a touch of chic to every home. The rustic candles come in soft, harmonious tones and feature a champagne metallic paint that fades gently.

T +44 0800 169 5126 sales@uk.bolsius.com www.bolsius.co.uk

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Spotlight On... Gifts For Gardeners

Generation Gardeners With the cactus firmly on trend this year, and more and more people - Millennials included - turning their hand to living off the land - whether through growing their own vegetables, renting an allotment or small holding, or nurturing a selection of favourite herbs on the kitchen window sill or patio - gardening per se is going from strength to strength in line with an expanding market for garden gifts.

Plus, it's a natural for licensed giftware too, as PG&H discovered.

As Spring continues to blossom, gardeners are eagerly looking forward to getting out in the fresh air to enjoy the fruits of their labours. With the fragrance of freshly mown grass heralding, hopefully, the beginning of blue skies, sunshine and longer days for many Britons, it's time to start thinking about putting on a pair of gardening gloves, getting out the trowel and the garden fork, and finding the watering can, with the green fingered easy to buy for when it comes to gifting.

"We are definitely seeing more customers from outside our historic key market of garden centres, with a surge of gift outlets now starting to stock our ranges

of gifts for gardeners," says Heather Culpan, managing director at Burgon & Ball.

According to Heather, while there is a growing trend for practical gifts for gardeners, people also want to give something that has the ‘wow’ factor.

"Beautiful design should enhance the functional appeal of a gift, not replace it," she explains. "Plus, gift givers want to know that the gift they give will also be used and loved by the recipient. We have seen this with our new FloraBrite range of garden tools, launched last September, which sold phenomenally well in its first quarter - a period when we would normally expect to see minimal demand for garden tools."

At Briers, the company is seeing a return to heavy patterns and prints. "In previous

Top: Burgon & Ball's FloraBrite garden tools.

Above: Laura Ashley fashionable outdoor footwear from Treadmore.

Left: Navigate's Orchard herb pots and drip tray.

Below left: Part of the Julie Dodsworth range recently launched by Briers.

years, design has been more subdued and less distinctive, but now, people are looking for really pretty as well as fun, functional gardening items at affordable prices," confirms Tristan Sissons, the company's trading director, who points to the award winning, licensed Julie Dodsworth collection as among the company's biggest collections. "Since its launch last Autumn, it's been very successful for us, with Julie's artisan, narrowboat designs really resonating with many of the trends being predicted by the major forecasting agencies," comments Tristan.

Also doing well with licensed giftware is Treadstone. "Consumers have become more fashion conscious in everything they do, from gardening to walking the dog," says Treadstone's head of brands Dean Winters.

"Gardening used to be seen as a hobby for the retired, but the 'grow your own' revolution has inspired a new generation of gardeners that demand style as well as function, whether they are pruning roses or Progressive Gifts & Home Worldwide

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Spotlight On... Gifts For Gardeners

digging potatoes. Consequently, consumers want fashionable wellingtons and waterproof shoes, with the application of well known brand names and colourful and creative packaging turning previously utilitarian garden tools, gloves and wellingtons into 'must have' gifts. Plus, brand history and heritage adds further value," he emphasises.

Navigate meanwhile, has launched Orchard, a new gardening gift range for 2017, (part of its boutique brand Beau & Elliot), featuring a graphic tree design motif and muted, natural colours. Comments Navigate's marketing director David Atkinson: “Gifts for gardeners is growing hugely and is probably one of the few gifting areas that allows you to feel indulgent and practical at the same time. Our new Orchard range, inspired by nature activities and outdoor holidays, includes products such as a watering can, herb pots, a large seed box, and a fashionable, practical tool bag. The packaging uses natural kraft board in keeping with the ethos of the design."

Laura Driffield, head of marketing at Wild & Wolf, points to a new generation of gardeners, who pride themselves in having unique gardening accessories and planters.

"For those who want to stand out from their neighbour’s garden, the Orla Kiely gardening

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range contains key statement pieces based on her most popular designs. For example, the range's Stem Flower, Multi-Stem and 70's Oval designs bring vibrancy to gardens, and make a lovely gift or self-purchase. The packaging is traditionally Orla, with the use of kraft packaging displaying the Stem Flower design, along with an image of the product."

At Gisela Graham, sales director Piers Croke says the company's gifts for gardeners collection has two time frames - work time and rest time. "For work time, we offer 'utility with a smile', such as tool bags, aprons or gardening gloves, patterned flowers, fruits and bees, and chic pots, baskets and pot holders.

For rest breaks, we know gardeners appreciate tea sets that reflect their passion – mugs, teapots, jugs, cushions to sit on, with

gardening, and for Spring 2017 we've launched an extended range of gifts for gardeners and garden lovers, with a particular focus on the fun element," he explains. "Our felt gardening mice have already proved winners in this category, as have our inquisitive ceramic perching birds, which can be placed on the edge of any vase or flowerpot. These join our best-selling range of garden-related signs, with their particular emphasis on the importance of sheds."

Victoria York, social media co-ordinator at Sass & Belle, says that 2017 is all about celebrating the real world in real-time – a rebuke from the digital world. "This is definitely having a positive effect on the ‘gifts for gardeners’ market place," she observes.

"Gardening is no longer an old-age pastime.

It now attracts a whole host of people who before wouldn’t have considered themselves gardeners." As she highlights, nowadays, everyone, whether they live in the city or on a farm, can become greenfingered gods or goddesses.

Top: Wild & Wolf's distinctive Orla Kiely range.

Above: Transomnia's gifts for gardeners reflect a fun element.

Below left: Among the garden gifts from Gisela Graham.

Right: Sass & Belle suggests bringing the outdoors in.

horticultural patterns. We also try to make the product as visible as possible. Although packaging can help to sell, too much is wasteful and gardeners tend to be ecologically conscious," adds Piers.

"There has undoubtedly been a big growth in the popularity of gardening in recent years, especially among younger adults who traditionally have not been particularly associated with the pastime," comments Rod O'Mahony, director, Transomnia, who highlights that a recent survey of 25 to 35-year-olds claimed it had become more popular among this age group than going to the cinema!

Continues Rod: "With gardening itself becoming more popular, it's no surprise that gardening-related gifts are trending.

However, while for some it's a serious pastime, there's an even larger group for whom it's a fun hobby and who also like their interior accessories to flag their love of the garden in a humorous way. At Transomnia, we're firmly on the fun side of

"Terrariums and planters are a great way to bring the outdoors in and a failsafe way for an amateur to become an expert," she emphasises. "Transforming the garden into a magical place is also on the rise. For example, there is a big interest all in things related to fairies with the garden becoming an enchanted kingdom."

Of course, as Mike Burgess, managing director of Parlane, points out, with ‘greenery’ as Pantone's colour of the year for 2017, it has become a very strong theme this season. "Our key plants are sprays and balls of faux ferns, trailing willows and tropical hoyas," he confirms. "They create a

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Spotlight On... Gifts For Gardeners striking hanging feature when displayed grouped together indoors or outdoors.

“Animals are always a top purchase, with our animal themed pot hangers still among our best sellers, plus, we are continuing to produce our concrete gardenware and accessories, a material that is still featuring heavily in this sector."

From a well-being perspective, Sue Grant, marketing manager of Widdop And Co, points to gardening helping to improve both mental and physical health. "Many gifts also reflect the fact that the garden is often treated as another room in the house. Accessories for use out-ofdoors, such as garden ornaments, lanterns or

"Gifts for gardeners don’t have to be exclusively used for the outdoors," says Katie Burt, marketing, Really Good/Soul. "We are seeing a drive in garden themed gifts that give gardeners enjoyment indoors as well as outdoors," she comments. "With five million new gardeners in 2016 in the 18-34 age group, we are also looking at gifts that are suitable for a younger market. Plus, cacti are bang on trend for 2017 which can be seen popping up on not only gardening products but other gifts too this year."

Above: Metal animal ornaments and plaques from Widdop And Co. Left: Parlane's popular Dachshund planter.

Right: The Bright Side's garden related cake tin from Really Good.

wind spinners, are firm favourites, while the quirky outdoor gift doesn't go amiss, such as a bird house that will not only look good in the garden but also attract feathered wildlife to become a part of it. Sentiment plaques too, with garden-style sayings, are popular pick-up lines," she adds.

Smelling Sweet Of course, gardens and scents go hand in hand. "Fragrance is a great way to bring the outside in, as authentic garden scents can trigger memories, connecting us immediately with the great outdoors," says Ashleigh & Burwood's PR manager Deborah Bettinson. "This season, our new product launch has been inspired entirely by an English Country Garden, where we have placed classic English florals of Peony, Tea Rose and Lavender centre stage, tempered with other green garden favourites such as Garden Mint, Wild Meadow and Herb Garden. The aesthetics of packaging in this sector are hugely important, with garden-inspired illustration and graphics holding a strong appeal to the gift recipient. Highly decorative patterns, inspired by flora and fauna of the English garden, are particularly popular. Plus, our limited edition Spring/Summer17 gift sets and scented candles are packaged in decorated gift boxes with illustrations of flowers leaves, butterflies and birds in pastel colours with silver detailing."

Also reflecting the great British outdoors is Heathcote & Ivory. "In recent years, we’ve seen a huge increase in patriotism towards all things British," comments marketing, PR and business development manager Amanda Pullen. "Now we are enjoying our horticultural heritage through a celebration of traditional British plants and English floral fragrances.

Consequently, the gardeners’ gifts sector has made a big move towards this and no longer simply promotes ‘gardening’ but endorses the outdoors, where we have introduced new lines to our bestselling Gardeners Above: New fragrances in Ashleigh & Burwood's The Scented Home include garden favourites such as Country Lavender, Tea Rose and Garden Mint.

Left: Gardeners Miniatures by Heathcote & Ivory.

Right: Wood of Windsor's Lily of the Valley luxury soaps, distributed by Xystos.

Below right: Bolsius' new Citronella Garden range.

Bottom: Apple Blossom from Stoneglow's Nature's Gift range.

collection featuring British wildlife and classic, nutritious allotment favourites."

Gardening, of course, is heavy work, so pampering products always make welcome presents, "especially those that are themed to appeal to the green fingered," says Xystos’ director Tom Sykes, "with the Woods of Windsor Floral Fragrances Collection including a super-hydrating moisturising hand wash and nourishing hand cream as well as luxury soaps."

At Bolsius, the company says it has seen a growing trend for creating mood and atmosphere within gardens. "With people prolonging time spent in their gardens in the summer evenings, we have seen an increase in demand for outdoor tea light holders, candle torches and unique citronella candles and tealights," confirms Mark Smith, national account manager, Bolsius UK & Ireland.

"This season we have also developed a new range of citronella candle tins, and have introduced a new fragrance, Tomato Leaf."

Stoneglow meanwhile, targets the gifts for gardeners’ market place with two of its ranges - Nature' s Gift and Botanicals. "In the UK, we grow and harvest some of the botanicals found in these two collections with packaging across the board as important as the product itself," comments the company's head of design Winnie Wong.

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VOLKSWAGEN BBQ HAMPER

VOLKSWAGEN TOASTER

The ultimate BBQ set for any VW lover. This retro cool bag features an easily removable handle that turns into a disposable BBQ stand. Perfect for sunny summer adventures!

Call us 01903 327006 Email us sales@fizzcreations.com Visit us fizzcreations.com

Find us on Facebook Look for us on Instagram Follow us on Twitter

This two slice retro Volkswagen Toaster features a bagel toasting function, as well as reheat and defrost. An easily adjustable browning control, wide slots and quick release mean you can enjoy perfect toast every time. A must have for any Volkswagen fan.

Call us 01903 327006 Email us sales@fizzcreations.com Visit us fizzcreations.com

Find us on Facebook Look for us on Instagram Follow us on Twitter

020 8595 8878 http://www.stoneglowcandles.co.uk/ sales@stoneglowcandles.co.uk

NATURE’S GIFT: OCEAN

An uplifting, refreshing ozonic fragrance.

Floral notes of jasmine and geranium are transported on peppermint-fresh ocean winds. Freshly cut lavender stems and green oakmoss sit on a warm, woody base of white cedarwood and soft musks.

Top Drawer K47 15-17 Jan 2017 | Olympia, London Spring fair Hall 4 B20-C21 5-9 Feb 2017 | NEC Birmingham Ambiente L62 10-14 Feb 2017 | Frankfurt Germany

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Gift Of The Year 2017

Flower Power

Shrieking Violet's colourful, adjustable flower ring designs wowed the judges at this year's Gift of the Year competition, winning the company the coveted Fashion Jewellery & Accessories Award which was sponsored by Progressive Gifts & Home.

Director Lash Marash explains how it all began at Glastonbury in the late 1990's with a lone daisy, and why the company's sterling silver jewellery is currently ringing up sales for gift retailers.

"Rings are usually a retailer's nightmare as they have to carry stock of so many sizes with a high return on rings that don't fit," explains Lash. Our adjustable ring design is therefore a blessing, as it takes away the guesswork when buying a ring for someone as a gift."

Interestingly, the idea for Shrieking Violet was conceived in a field at the Glastonbury Festival. "In those days, after a hard night's dancing, we would head to the stone circle to watch the sun rise up over the site which was a truly magical experience. After spotting a lone daisy shining out of the green pastures, the spark was born to capture these perfect natural wonders and create beautiful jewellery using the Above: Shrieking Violet director Lash Marash and Yasmin Alexander, sales manager (left), are shown at the Gift of the Year awards ceremony, along with PG&H's editor Sue Marks who presented the award.

Above: The winning adjustable flower rings.

flowers, so those fields have a lots to answer for!" Lash quips.

The jewellery - which includes necklaces and bracelets - is all hand-crafted and designed in the UK, with sterling silver and tiny little flowers encapsulated in resin. "Our head gardener keeps a watchful eye on the flowers, tending them with love and water until they reach the perfect size," Lash continues. "They are then carefully picked, preserved and arranged into beautiful creations to be worn as jewellery."

The flower jewellery collections include rose, poppy, forget-me-not, daisy, heather and four-leaf clovers which are featured in necklaces, pendants, earrings, rings, bracelet, bangles, brooches and cuff links.

Adds Lash: "All our jewellery comes in a stylish gift box which makes it the perfect gift."

Highly Commended Runners up in the Fashion Jewellery & Accessories category this year were Carrie Elspeth and Goodlookers (London) who were both highly commended.

Carrie Elspeth's Abstract range of necklaces, bracelets and earrings, handmade in Wales, feature painted shell beads from the Philippines, with each unique bead revealing a distinctive rainbow of colours. Goodlookers' unisex Changers - suitable as reading glasses and sun readers - feature photochromatic lenses that darken in the sunlight.

Left: A bracelet from Carrie Elspeth's Abstract range.

Right: Changers from Goodlookers.

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Writing and paper products have never been so popular with consumers, and are a major sales opportunity for gift and lifestyle retailers.

Don’t miss this two day stationery extravaganza... 1000s of products...100s of the biggest and newest brands from around the world, all in one place... top designers... new ideas... keynote presentations... great networking... there’s nothing else like it.

It’s where fashion meets function.

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RegisteR foR youR fRee ticket today stationeryshow.co.uk @StationeryBytes

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Spotlight On... Social Stationery

Taking Note They say that what goes around comes around, with fashion-led journals very much in vogue today as people look to switch off from technology and put pen to paper, with social media helping to drive the trend.

With the seventh London Stationery Show getting ready to open its doors at London's Business Design Centre at the end of April, gift retailers - many of whom will also be taking part in National Stationery Week - are sure to be among the buyers looking at what's trending.

With something for everyone who wants their stationery to say something about them, PG&H takes note of what the leading players will be unveiling this summer.

A bit like a fresh new page of a diary, there's something rather exciting and personal about writing things down in a lovely journal as well as using a stylish or a funky pen or pencil. Whether it's jotting down notes in a meeting or in the classroom, writing down personal reminders about things to do, compiling a list, or simply expressing personal thoughts and feelings, it becomes much more enjoyable when the notebook or writing instrument has been chosen for its aesthetic appeal rather than for its functionality. Using a journal to write things down has also been linked to mindfulness - a quiet time to think and reflect.

"Stationery is a must have for everyday," concurs Lisa Shand, md, Blueprint. "Whether it's for a home office, work, school or for general use, people always need a pen and notebook. Not only is it considered to be a necessity, it is also a fashion statement," she states. "From catwalk to store, fashion trends are now being evolved into stationery through the different use of colours, shapes, textures and designs. In particular, licensed products are extremely popular, as a movie, band or celebrity are their own advisement for the range."

She highlights that a specific licence, quality, value and design all play a key role when deciding to purchase a stationery item. "It's the look and quality which are the main reasons that customers choose to buy an item," she continues, "with licensed products adding another level of desire to purchase through the power of branding. For example, every child wants a pen with their favourite character on."

Lisa adds that plush items are a favourite this Spring/Summer, to include fluffy notebooks, pens and pencil cases.

"We have included these in a lot of our own brand ranges as well as in Pusheen, Trolls and Gudetama," she confirms.

"Stripes and floral contrast, as seen in one

of our most recent Designers Guild range, are also a must have this summer, bringing a summery, bright and bold statement to stationery. For our own brand collections, we have followed a very popular trend of baby pinks, rose gold and marbles mixed with this year's highly-popular geometric pattern, which gives the range a feminine, girly and on trend feel."

Staying with licensed product, Laura Driffield, head of marketing at Wild & Wolf, confirms that the company's Ted Baker luxury pens collection, and women’s stationery pieces, reflect today’s colour trends of nude and rose gold hues. "The

Top: Wild & Wolf's Ted Baker women's stationery range.

Above: Licences are big news in the social stationery sector, as shown in the new Sara Miller London collection from Blueprint.

Inset: Wrendale Designs' pens come in a small display box that can be positioned near the till.

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IT’S ALL ABOUT THE GRID Control the chaos!

Come and say HELLO - we’re on Stand M607 at The London Stationery Show mumsoffice.co.uk

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Spotlight On... Social Stationery style seems to be going nowhere fast, with chic images of desk setups featuring rose gold pens and nude notebooks taking over social media platforms," states Laura.

"Our Ted Baker women’s collection reflects this, with pastel and nude notebooks, pens and accessories including a stapler, hole punch and tape dispenser with gold detailed quotes on the sophisticated designs. The selection of signature fountain and ballpoint pens also feature a rose gold addition as well as Aquamarine, Pink Quartz and White Quartz which fit within the trend.

Ultimately, stationery is a product used everyday which never goes out of season or trend. Style affects what people go for as well as practicality and brand awareness."

Hannah Dale, founder and creative director of Wrendale Designs, says that self purchases tend to be more of an impulse buy. "It’s not something that someone necessarily needs but wants. With gifts, I

think it depends on the product. Pens and notebooks can make great gifts because they’re general products, but if they are packaged to look more like a gift it's going to have an impact. An example is our pens which come packaged in an illustrated gift box tube. Also, we recently launched an extension to our Zoology collection, which features tropical animals and birds, and this has gone down a storm, thanks to the vibrant colours and quirky characters," she explains. "We are therefore planning on expanding the range further this Spring as it ties into the current demand for warm and tropical colours."

From a consumer's perspective, stationery is a buyer's market. As Luca Bridges, senior sales and marketing coordinator at Caroline Gardner points out: "There are so many choices of stationery designs and styles that they're hard to miss when in a store.

Above: Colourful cactus stationery from Sass & Belle includes a handcrafted cactus pen.

Left: Hearts and Cafe Society from Caroline Gardner.

Right: Widdop And Co's Stratton pen set.

Licensed To Thrill For many young stationery enthusiasts, stationery choices are dictated to by the latest licences, such as Star Wars and Harry Potter, or old favourites that include Peppa Pig, Paddington and Roald Dahl. For adults too, licensed product remain best sellers.

"With mermaids and unicorns currently a big trend, we are among the licensees for the fantasy artist Josephine Wall and feature her work not just on calendars and diaries but on notebooks too, to include a unicorn design. Our licensed fine art designs also work well on journals, with our best selling designs taken from the Bodelian Library, William Morris, Klimt and Mucha."

Also showing their stationery credentials are companies such as Museums & Galleries. "Our licensed stationery is continuing to evolve," says director Debbie Williams, "with new products launching in our V&A, Matthew Williamson and British Library collections. Interestingly, men too, like to write in stylish notebooks."

Social media has definitely also had an influence on the popularity of stationery, with inspirational desk set-ups and branded notebooks constantly being shared by bloggers and fashion accounts."

She adds that buying and giving a stationery item is emotive, thoughtful and personal. "A well-made stationery item, such as a boxed pen, or a beautifully bound notebook, is a lovely luxury item that people might want to use every day," she suggests.

"People are definitely putting more thought into the stationery they buy in terms of how it looks and feels and how useful it is."

Victoria York, social media co-ordinator at Sass & Belle, observes that while stationery has always been widely loved it has recently enjoyed a sudden surge in popularity. "There is a whole online

community devoted to celebrating beautiful stationery, and it comes back to how personal pen and paper can be," she underlines. "There is something meaningful and concrete about the written word. Likewise, the trend for mindfulness and self-improvement has catapulted, and journaling is a big part of this.

It’s taking a step to enjoy what is real instead of what’s virtual and this is expressed through pretty stationery and taking the time to appreciate it. At Sass & Belle, an integral part of successful gifting is buying something which is functional, thoughtfully designed and serves a purpose. Stationery has a Continued on page 57

Gift Stationery On The Up

Above: Among the collection of fine art journals from Flame Tree.

l The UK stationery market is set to rise by £49.1 million (2.4%) from £2.06 billion in 2016 to around £2.1 billion by 2021, according to retail research and analysis firm Verdict Retail. l The company’s latest report states that this growth, which defies the ongoing rise of smartPhones and tablets, will be driven by purchasing stationery as gifts, increased product ranges, and design-led products and innovation.

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Give

Gift

the OFLaughter

Whether it’s the ridiculousness of modern politics, or a bit of nostalgia, nothing beats a book that raises a bit of a giggle as the ideal gift!

US E V I G LL! A C A www.booksbyboxer.com Books By Boxer, Swinnow Lane, Bramley, Leeds, UK. LS13 4BS Sales Telephone: +44 (0)1133 955 595 • sales@boxergifts.com

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definitive purpose, and there are so many ways it can be personalised."

At Widdop And Co, marketing manager Sue Grant says that beautiful design will always act as the initial enticement. "Who can resist the pull of a new notebook, journal or diary oozing the 'oooohh’ factor!" she comments. "After that, the usefulness of the product comes into play which is particularly important for a self-purchase. If the item is destined for a handbag, it’s got to fit.

Currently, journals for special periods of our lives are a huge trend, to include items such as a three year journal or a 'bump' journal for an expectant mum. Plus, books of postcards are a simple and inexpensive way of sending a special message." Adds Sue: "A good pen that looks great - or coordinates with a notebook, journal or diary makes a popular gift for both males and females. Additionally, the opening price point for stationery is usually within most people’s budgets making it an all year round purchase."

As Katie Burt, marketing, Really Good/Soul adds, people love finding stationery that fits their unique taste and sense of style. "Soul has incorporated foils on its latest range of stationery from Imagine, using bright and fun prints with an accent of gold, silver and bronze foils which is bang on trend and already proving to be very popular. Stationery no longer has the plain, bland design it previously had and has evolved to become quite beautiful and eye catching."

Because stationery is used every day, both at school and in the Top: ExaClair's Heritage range.

Above right: Among the journals in Lesser & Pavey's Gold Edition range.

Centre: A flamingo design from Go Stationery.

Right: Soul has incorporated foils on its latest range of stationery from Imagine.

Top Tips l "Gift retailers can make the most of stationery in their shops by merchandising in a lifestyle-like set up, such as a desk layout which makes the buyer see how their desk could look if they were to buy the stationery." Laura Driffield, head of marketing, Wild & Wolf l "How the product is displayed helps sell the product. Display units, FSDU, CDU and back boards all help." Lisa Shand, md Blueprint

London Stationery Show: The Lowdown l The 2017 London Stationery Show takes place at the Business Design Centre, Islington, on April 25-26. Visit www.stationeryshow.co.uk l National Stationery Week takes place from April 24-30.

Visit www.nationalstationeryweek.com l World Stationery Day takes place on April 26. Visit www.worldstationeryday.com

workplace, it constantly needs replacing points out Jonny Greves, buyer, Lesser & Pavey. "With the growing popularity of gifts featuring sentiments and catchy phrases, it’s becoming easier to find something either as a gift or a self purchase," he comments.

"The ongoing trend for hot stamp gold is still very popular, along with lots of bright bold colours with quirky sayings for the fun loving.

We have also used it on soft pastel colours and creams in our popular Mad Dots range which features more meaningful sentiments."

Taking centre stage for ExaClair meanwhile, is the

new Heritage range of notepads from Rhodia, embracing the brand’s signature orange and black roots. Also new from the company is Europa’s range of A4 notebooks aimed at students and young professionals. “The pads include all the features that appeal to this market," says Kevin Wharton, marketing manager at ExaClair, "plus J Herbin’s range of award winning inks and calligraphy products, and the new collections from Clairefontaine where co-ordinated and themed notepads, bags, pens and accessories appeal to young stationery fans. The ranges are bright and fun and have a wide appeal across the student and young professional and boutique stationery markets” Wedding stationery too, is thriving.

"It's certainly a growth market place for us at Deva," confirms md Andrew Maddocks.

"We've recently introduced three new wedding collections in our Kitted Out collection to include a be-ribboned memory book with 50 pages so that guests can write messages to the bride and groom. The bride then collates the pages, puts them back in the book and re-ties the ribbon. We also have a box of 50 hearts that can be scattered on the tables for guests to write on. We try to design unique gifts that draw customers in. If you create really lovely product it will find its market."

With National Stationery Week taking place from April 24-30, and the London Stationery Show welcoming visitors on April 25-26, retailers of social stationery are hopefully reaping the benefits of another pre-show successful media campaign.

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A Global Perspective: HOMI, Milan

Style The Italian Way Not only is Italy regarded as one of the leading fashion capitals of the world, it is also an intriguing city for style and elegance when it comes to the home.

Earlier this year, lifestyle show HOMI, held in Milan, opened its doors to buyers looking to source everything from gifts, home fragrancing and fashion accessories to kitchen, dining and tabletop, with a big emphasis on sustainability.

A fusion of design, technology and Italian culture, PG&H was among the international press at the show, there to home in on the trends.

Three years down the line, HOMI (formerly known as Macef), has really got into its stride, a striking, confident bi-annual show that not only attracts Italian retailers across the board, but also international visitors across 38 countries to include the UK, America and India.

The show is gaining ground across all sectors, especially from the perspective of contemporary design, jewellery, home fragrancing and housewares. "Our aim has been to create a unique identity and atmosphere," show director Christian Preiata told PG&H. "It's how the show is presented to buyers that makes the difference.

We understand that as consumers change so their buying habits change, with trade shows having to evolve too. With this in mind, we have continued to edit HOMI, putting a focus on the symmetry between technology and design, with threads of sustainability and upcycling running through the exhibition."

With the great outdoors trending this year, nature is seen as a key element for 2017/2018, contrasting with the hard reality of today's increasingly digital world. "With technology such a major part of our lives, people often dream of being outside, at one with nature, connecting with trees and wood, as well

What's Trending For 2017/2018 l Nature: colours evoke plants and minerals in earthy and Autumnal hues: shades of olive green, yellow mustard and wood browns, along with hard and soft shades of grey used either as a block colour or veined. l Form and Substance: materials trending for home accessories include wood, glass, metal, stone, marble and plastic in new, minimalist shapes. Colours are simple such as pale blue, white chalk and a grey palette. l Shapes for housewares will feature clean lines and sophisticated, simple geometric designs.

Above: Clean lines, simple shapes, environmentally friendly materials.

Left: Wood reflects a return to nature.

Below left: Mustard yellow is a key colour for 2017/2018.

Below far left: Green was a leading trend colour at the show.

Below right and bottom: Gold, a big trend in the UK, could been seen across all product sectors to include tabletop and decorative home accessories.

as the touch of cosy, soft, simple fabrics to wear, or to have in the house, such as throws and blankets. Looking at the trends going forward we are therefore seeing a definite return to Mother Earth," confirmed WGSN trend forecaster Lori Gooding.

"Household accessories make the dimension through the rediscovery of raw materials that bring us back to nature, making it possible to bring the outdoors in. Shapes too are inspired by the 'perfect imperfection' of the natural world - rough, porous, downy textures - that evoke rich, vivid images that contrast with the cold touch of mobile phones, tablets and screens. These blend with environmentally friendly materials and shapes, such as wood and natural fibres, thereby making the objects that surround us even more useful," she emphasises.

Lori adds that 'Italianness' is synonymous not just with quality, but also with culture and style." Clean lines and design innovation is underpinned by elegance," states Lori, "and this will always be an inherent part of the Italian culture."

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Find out more about the Harvey Makin brand by visiting the website: www.harveymakin.co.uk

Presents:

All you need is us!

To become a Musicology stockist visit: www.widdop.co.uk.

Or make an appointment to visit our North Manchester showrooms: sales@widdop.co.uk | 0161 688 1226

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Spotlight On... Men’s Gifts

APPEAL

Have you noticed that there are two common denominators when it comes to discussing men's gifts? The first, is that there is the deep rooted belief that men are notoriously difficult to buy for, and the second is that products aimed at the male gift market need to be useful.

With Father's Day homing into view on Sunday June 18, and gift retailers - and their customers - on the look-out to source that 'something different', PG&H spoke to some of the leading suppliers to see what will be trending not just for Father's Day but for gifting occasions throughout the year.

With functional, practical and 'interest related' among the three key drivers for the men's giftware sector, and wine and beer providing many a jokey caption on male greeting cards and sentiment plaques, it's not surprising that glassware remains one of the most popular 'go to' gifts.

"Men's gifting supports some of our best selling items, and our extensive drinkware collection provides many a men's gift solution," states Dartington's commercial director Richard Halliday. "The added appeal of our glassware is that it can be easily personalised and engraved with a name or message to make the gift more special. Packaging too, is a vital element," continues Richard.

He adds that 'a favourite glass for his favourite drink' is a strong theme for the company, with a range of gift solutions for

tipples to include whisky, beer and wine. "For 2017, the enduring enthusiasm for craft beers led us to create Dartington Brew Craft - a selection of individual glasses each matched to a style of beer," Richard explains.

Having spent time researching the male gift market, and talking to the end user, Enesco has established that men want a gift that they can use.

"It has to be something that is useful, quality and that stands the test of time," explains director of marketing Helen Shield.

"Bearing this in mind, we created a range of men’s gifts which are beautifully yet simply packaged to appeal to the typically female purchaser, with a range of products which are entirely functional Top: Cheers! Dartington's new gift boxed Brew Craft collection.

Above: Among the useful tools from Enesco’s M Gifts for Men. Left: Gift Republic's on trend Man of the World collection.

from bicycle tools, to bottle openers to multi-function hammers and pliers - each with a carefully thought out selection of tools, in a sleek black finish, without gimmicks or logos. Given that we tend to spend less on the men in our lives, what drives this market is value for money, quality, function and simplicity."

"Men have gone through quite a transformation in the past few decades, and consequently, so has the men’s gifting industry," observes George Stokes, designer, Gift Republic. "Dark browns and faded patches seem to be infiltrating the high-end fashion stores, and we expect the trickle down effect to become even more prominent in men’s gifting, with our Man of the World range particularly popular. This year will see a new selection of products joining the collection, focusing on faded textures and worn leathers, with the aesthetic coming back in a big way."

As Kat Grant, copywriter, PR & sales support at Signature Gifts, points out, something unique is always valued within the gift market, and gifts for men are no exception. "Of course sports are always a massive factor in men’s gifts, and we find that these sell more around Father’s Day Progressive Gifts & Home Worldwide

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GIFT GIVING‌all wrapped up Enesco Limited, Head Office & Customer Services, Brunthill Road, Kingstown, Carlisle, Cumbria, CA3 0EN. Tel: 01228 404022 email: uksales@enesco.co.uk Overseas Customer Services: Tel: +44 1228 404066 email: eurosales@enesco.co.uk Š 2017 Enesco Ltd.

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Spotlight On... Men’s Gifts than any other time of the year barring Christmas," confirms Kat. "We make sure that our Sports Newspaper books are always up to date with the latest sporting season, and this summer, these books will contain all of the up to date match articles from Britain’s top national newspaper."

With most men not averse to a jokey gift, Lagoon director Heather Watherston points to a demand for more entertaining gifts for men such as after dinner games, jokes and pranks. "One of our most popular launches this year has been our Ladybird Books for Grown-Ups Bad Dad Jokes, Office Pranks and Drinking Games.

Perhaps as an antidote to the current economic climate and uncertain times we live in, people seem to want to give presents that are guaranteed to put a smile on faces and a bit of fun into people’s lives.”

Left middle: Lagoon's Ladybird Books for Grown-Ups Bad Dad Jokes.

Left: Book of Dad from Boxer Gifts.

Below left: Signature Gifts' Sports Newspaper books for sports lovers.

Below right: Lesser & Pavey's Man Cave range.

Also highlighting a light-hearted approach to men's gifting is Boxer Gifts.

"Men's gifts that inspire follow a rather quirky trend due to the typical man never needing anything - if he'd have wanted it he'd have already bought it," says Thomas O'Brien, senior operations director at Boxer.

"That means that a great man's gift is the product he didn't even know existed with gift retailers needing to offer inspiration.

Our Bike mugs, or Brexit saver, for example, are a refreshing break from products such as socks or cufflinks which are typically on offer at the larger outlets," says Thomas.

"Gift books too, can provide an inspired gift while the Book of Dad is a perfect pickup to help dad improve his terrible jokes, magic

tricks and, most importantly, his Dad dancing!" quips Thomas.

"Not so long ago, it was difficult to find something for men other than ties, handkerchiefs and cufflinks," says Jonny Greves, buyer, Lesser & Pavey. "But now, people want something more original, imaginative and thoughtful. Following the huge success of our Gent’s Quarter range, we see the trends for men’s gifts as a novel and fun twist on practical and useable items. Our new competitively priced Man Cave range is nicely packaged, ready to be given to a friend or relative."

As Sue Grant, marketing manager at Widdop And Co reflects: "Men’s gifts is a tricky market sector to get right, but when

Continued on page 65

Socks That Rock No matter what the gift giving occasion, socks are always a reliable standby as a male gift with today's designs and colours very much on trend.

"We're seeing a real focus on personal grooming, style, fashion and fun," points out Gary Schaeffer, md of Sock Academy. With this in mind, Sock Academy, (within its United Oddsocks brand), has launched a new range of gift boxes for men that includes Sockology, a set of colourful socks to mix and mismatch. Adds Gary: "For a touch of fun and light-heartedness, we have also launched Oddcocks – rooster boosting oddsocks with a crazy cockerel theme which focuses on humour."

David Gee, managing director of The Music Gifts Company, points to a growing trend for men’s gifts, priced at £25 and under, featuring hobbies and interests. "Even though socks remain the default gift for men, and account for huge numbers, other popular men's gifts remain cufflinks and mugs, as long as they are attractive and well-presented. Customers want something different and are prepared to pay the price, so it’s important to offer gifts that will be used. Bottle openers and pens are also in demand, and we have recently launched new English made washbags with a pewter zip-pull."

Male jewellery is another option for gift givers, with Joe Davies confirming that the company has expanded its Equilibrium men's collection for Spring/Summer. "Men’s leather bracelets are continuing to go from strength to strength," confirms Steve Davies, managing director of Joe Above left: Sock Academy's Sockology.

Davies, "with retailers increasingly looking for more unique male gifts, which is Left: Among the latest sock designs driving the market for quirky, unusual giftware such as our techno range of miniature from The Music Gifts Company. clocks. Plus, the market has also seen an increase in humorous message products, with Above: Joe Davies' quirky range of miniature techno clocks. a novelty factor reflected in our Man Cave gifts and Headline beer bottle openers which offer fun message designs and attractive price points."

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Spotlight On... Men’s Gifts

'Mandle' Appeal

Above: Widdop And Co's Monte Carlo collection resonates with women as well as men.

you do get it right, the sky’s the limit. One trend we are seeing in men’s gifts is the move towards unisex, with men’s gifts no longer appealing only to men. We’ve always been aware of the appeal to women, as it’s likely that they are going to be the ones purchasing the gift in the first place. An example is our Musicology collection from our gent’s Harvey Makin brand. Not only is it a great range of gifts with stand-out packaging, but also, the humour appeals to both women as well as men. It's the same with our Monte Carlo collection. Why should drinking and gambling be purely the men’s domain? From a retailer’s point of view it’s a win-win situation," says Sue.

Male Grooming Good grooming is becoming all-important to men of all ages. "Kits and sets seem to be popping up in all the gift guides for men," says Laura Driffield, head of marketing at Wild & Wolf. "With the modern man always on the move, this is a high demand gift, whether it’s a kit focusing on beard maintenance, shoe shining, stationery, accessories or storage."

In response to the trend, Wild & Wolf has recently launched the Flight Ready Kit within the Gentlemen’s Hardware range which includes four toiletry essentials – hair & body wash, face wash, shaving cream and post shave lotion – in 60ml bottles. Similarly, a Beard Care Kit has also been added to the Gentlemen’s Hardware range this season.

"The men's grooming area is still growing rapidly and ‘old-school’ inspired trends such as shaving brushes are seeing a modern comeback," observes Laura.

"Male celebrities, social media and fashion trends are all influencing the trend."

Below: The new Beard Care kit from Wild & Wolf.

The home fragrancing sector too, is seeing a growth in products specifically aimed at men. "There will always be room for traditional gifts, but just as grooming products are being bought in increasing numbers by younger males, so too, are candles," confirms Tom Sykes, director, Xystos. "The fragrances for 2017 in our WoodWick and Village Candle ranges will be more subtle in terms of blends and mix and are therefore expected to appeal to men who may not necessarily favour floral scents. Plus, with the growth of wax melts and electric melt burners, we are expecting men to be among the purchasers, especially those who have a penchant for organising barbecues.

Metal is one of the new Cello melt burner collections and includes Persia, which would also work well for a 'man cave'."

"The male fragrance market has been steadily growing over the last few years, and this has been reflected in the home fragrance market too, so we believe that the trend of gifting candles to men will continue to grow," says Yankee Candle's brand & marketing manager, Sarah Dixon. "Men are openly enjoying the scents of candles - or 'mandles' - which have been specifically created with male-oriented scents such as sandalwood, cedarwood and tobacco. The Yankee Candle Barbershop collection glossy black candles with scents such as Aftershave and Chrome - is certainly drawing in the male consumer making it a contemporary gift for men.

Also popular are our auto and travel fragrances."

Above: Cello's Persia, distributed by Xystos.

Left: The Yankee Candle Barbershop collection.

The Great Outdoors Among the key trends for 2017 is doing something in the fresh air, be it an activity or a holiday. "Our most notable ranges for Spring/Summer 2017 feature strong camouflage prints and the great outdoors which have filtered through to giftware from the catwalk," highlights Lauren Billingham, designer, Puckator. "Surplus & Supply, that is simultaneously in vogue and yet timeless, features brand new products such as hipflasks, portable chargers and aluminium water bottles."

Also new from Puckator is the fashion led Camp 7 Hills which takes its inspiration from America. "Wistful imagery of long summers spent camping by lakes and hiking up mountains is the central focus for this range," explains Lauren.

Also focusing on the importance of the great outdoors is Classic Canes. "We are seeing increased sales of trekking poles and hiking staffs, especially to men interested in improving their fitness," says Charlotte Gillan, managing director of Classic Canes. "Buyers are always looking for men’s gifts that are either practical or collectable.

Walking sticks can be both."

Personalised engraved gifts too, Above: Surplus & are consistently a top choice. "This Supply and Cam 7 year, we are seeing a significant Hills are new ranges from Puckator. demand for practical gifts that Far left: Trekking encompass the theme of keeping fit poles and hiking and enjoying the great outdoors," staffs make a great says Keren Dicken, PMC's sales men's gift say Classic Canes. and marketing director. "We have Below: PMC's therefore combined these elements with personalisation to personalised flask create a truly unique gift." and mug.

Keren says that the benefit of personalising a gift is that customers are able to express a sentiment that is bespoke for the recipient. "We have also recently launched a selection of new designs on some of our bestselling engraved gifts, including hip flasks, pint tankards, cufflinks and lighters. Plus, our personalised beer glasses, wooden garden signs and even hammers are all available in popular slogan designs that make great male gifts."

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What’s New Progressive Gifts & Home highlights some of the latest gift products for the male market to be showcased this month.

Down Memory Lane The launch of Enesco’s Old Money collection features four money banks shaped as former ‘old school’ coins from the centuries-old imperial system, each is marked with a date relating to an important historical event. Artwork from original pre-decimalisation coinage - the shilling, threepence, sixpence and halfpence – has been used to create the design of each money bank. Each coin money bank is packaged in a printed craft box reinforcing its appeal as a vintage style gift full of nostalgia.

Enesco Tel: 01228 404022 Email: uksales@enesco.co.uk www.enesco.co.uk

Wonderful Wembley Gibsons has re-launched several classic board games that have proved a great success among men of any age! Inspired by the 198081 FA Cup, Wembley captures the atmosphere and excitement of the glorious game, starting at the crucial third round when only 32 teams are left. Once the team cards have been drawn, it’s down to the players to manage their teams to the top by investing their hard earned cash in star players and beating their opponents when rolling the cleverly weighted dice!

Gibsons Tel: 020 8661 8866 Email: sales@gibsonsgames.co.uk www.gibsonsgames.co.uk

Men On The Move Circuit is the brand new lunch range for men from Navigate’s boutique brand Beau & Elliot. Featuring a graphic signature print over a matt, petrol blue finish, the Circuit collection includes everything required for ‘men on the move’. The collection features an insulated lunch bag, sturdy stainless steel Bento box, 500ml drinks bottle with a bamboo/stainless steel stopper and carry handle, a 400ml lidded travel mug and 350ml vacuum flask.

Navigate Tel: +44 (0)1279653249 Email: sales@navigate.ltd.uk www.navigate.ltd.uk

Music Inspired Gifts

One of A Kind Perfect Puzzles Gibsons has a wide range of products that are perfect for men of any age! Mr Grumpy is a 250 piece gift jigsaw presented in a quirky tin depicting Roger Hargreaves’ lovable character and is great for keeping screws, batteries and other manly stuff in once the puzzle is complete. Alternatively, Gibsons’ The Official VW Campervan is just the ticket for car enthusiasts. Packaged in a mini tin replica of the classic blue van, the 500 piece puzzle is a montage of quirky campervans.

Gibsons Tel: 020 8661 8866 Email: sales@gibsonsgames.co.uk www.gibsonsgames.co.uk

Musicology, the latest collection from Harvey Makin, Widdop’s gents gifting brand, combines a witty use of lyrics with stylish design. From glass vinyl designed coasters and lyrical mugs and glasses, this quirky range is loud and bold, just like the music that inspired it. Perfect for music fans and coffee addicts, the quirky collection of mugs and the espresso set will bring music to the mornings. The bold black and orange packaging creates a strong in-store merchandising story guaranteed to jump off the shelf.

Widdop & Co. Tel: 0161 688 1226 Email: sales@widdop.co.uk www.widdop.co.uk

The stakes are high when it comes to Widdop’s new Monte Carlo range. A classy, premium gift collection, it is aimed at the trendy self-purchaser or the female buyer buying for her high-rolling man. The collection features themed barware, mugs and men’s accessories as well as stunning gift sets ideal for Father’s Day, incorporating an Ace Dad mug, beer glass and coaster. The product design and packaging tie in closely together featuring on-trend gold and black contrast geometric patterns.

Widdop & Co. Tel: 0161 688 1226 Email: sales@widdop.co.uk www.widdop.co.uk

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O N E STO P S H O P FO R P E R SO N A L I S E D G I F TS miffy

est: 2004

© Mercis bv

Sleek & Stylish Personalised Engraved Gifts For Men

NEW Personalised moneyclips, hipflasks, lighters, jewellery, glassware and much more...

A LCOH OL G I F TS

NEW

FOR HE R

D I Y & GAR D E N I N G

S P O RTS GI F TS

FAT H E R ’S DAY

NEW

FO R CH I L D R E N

NEW

FO R P E TS

H O M EWA R E

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What’s New Progressive Gifts & Home highlights some of the latest gift products for the male market to be showcased this month.

Licensed Bathrobe & Slippers

Go For Gold Give him gold with the new Edited collection: bringing together La Cafetière’s most popular coffee and tea products and styling them in the latest on-trend metallic. Stunning brushed gold is combined with brushed chrome and minimalist product shapes for a premium look that will sit like an understated trophy in his collection. Each luxury Edited product is presented in a sleek black box to make it the ideal gift.

Creative Tops Tel: 01536 207710 Email: sales@creative-tops.com www.creative-tops.com

The visually stunning Assassins Creed film, taken from the original video game, and with Michael Fassbender as the lead role, has inspired Groovy UK’s range of bathrobes, slippers and lighting. The super soft white bathrobe emulates the assassins outfit with an oversized peaked hood. The Assassins Creed logo is embroidered on the back in silver and red, with the motif logo on the chest and on the main body of the matching slippers. Robe RRP £32 Slippers: £12 Groovy UK Tel: 0844 372 7820 Email: Info@groovyuk.com www.groovyuk.com

Marvel-ous Lights Groovy UK introduce the new Mini Look-ALite, character mood lights with a difference. Characters include Marvel’s Captain America, Iron Man, Spider-Man and Hulk. RRP £9.99.

The original, larger size, is available at £20 and also the new keychains at £5. Groovy’s lighting ranges include licenses from Star Wars, DC Comics, Suicide Squad as well as a Halloween collection including a Mummy, Vampire, Skeleton, Zombie Frankenstein, Devil and more.

Groovy UK Tel: 0844 372 7820 Email: Info@groovyuk.com www.groovyuk.com

Light Up A Room Turn any room from the dark side to the light with Groovy UK’s Star Wars neon lights. Bright neon tubing surrounds a high quality PVC print of our favourite characters, including a Storm Trooper, Darth Vader, Light Sabers, Death Star and Star Wars logo. Just plug it in and enjoy the lightsaber-esque glow it gives off. A fantastic gift for Star Wars fans, it stands upright on it base and looks great on mantelpieces, office desks or coffee tables. Unique and eye catching with an RRP of £25.

Groovy UK Tel: 0844 372 7820 Email: Info@groovyuk.com www.groovyuk.com

Superhero Bags Be a superhero at work with Groovy’s Batman vs Superman messenger bags. Batman and Superman layered logos on front, with magnetic press stud fastening and custom engraved zip pull, internal zip pocket and custom debossed fabric on outer. Groovy’s collection of bags also include Wonder Woman, Suicide Squad and Harry Potter. Product ranges include bathrobes, slippers, Christmas stockings, lighting and ceramics. Bag RRP: £25.

Groovy UK Tel: 0844 372 7820 Email: info@groovyuk.com www.groovyuk.com

Personalised Gardening Gloves With Spring now well and truly upon us, the Personalised Memento Company have recently launched a selection of new personalised black and lilac gardening gloves which are ideal for green thumbed recipients! PMC’s designs include options for men and women, making them ideal for Father's Day, Mother's Day, Birthdays and grandparents.

PMC Tel : 01782 744900 Email: sales@personalisedmemento.co.uk www.personalisedmemento.co.uk

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Be inspired by simple design.

LC Designs Tel: 01622 716000 Email: admin@lcdesigns.com londonclock1922.com

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Spring Trade Fairs

One of the most exciting aspects of visiting a trade show is finding the products that make you screech to a halt and go 'wow'! And as gift retailers can confirm, there was plenty to catch the eye at the Spring trade fairs earlier this year.

Which products were the 'must haves'? PG&H asked gift retailers to reveal their showstoppers.

Above: Spring Fair (left) and Top Drawer (right).

Below left: Amalfi by Max Benjamin.

Below far left: Powder children's socks.

Below: A tray from Country Matters.

Products With The 'Wow' Factor "It's always exciting to attend the Spring trade fairs and lovely to see designers' interpretations of new trends, colours, textures and inspiring ideas and products for 2017," enthuses Denise Laird, owner of Spirito in Glasgow. "I attended Top Drawer, Scotland's Trade Fair Spring and Spring Fair at the start of the year, and there were some wonderful products that really had the 'wow' factor and have just arrived in the shop.

"At London's Top Drawer, Max Benjamin's Amalfi candle and diffuser collection first caught my eye because of its beautiful, colourful turquoise and pink floral packaging. This fragrant range instantly reminds you of summer, which is perfect for the shop over the coming months. The candles sit on a lovely bespoke POS unit which is a very nice addition in the shop for displaying the candles.

I also spotted Bubble. The products' pop of colour and strong designs really stood out for me at the show. There were lots of lovely gift bags with matching tissue, ribbons, and bows. Plus, next to the Bubble stand was its sister company, Belly Button Design greeting cards whose stand was inspirational. It was bright with lovely designs, colours and textures covering the new season ahead, with every day and special occasions at various price points."

At Spring Fair the following month, it was Powder's children's socks that caught Denise's attention. "Initially, it was because of the company's colourful stand concept - trendy children's socks on a lovely, well designed display stand. The socks come with a little mini gift bag which matches the stand design, so everything ties in nicely.

They have a good price point for a special children's pick up gift as well as something a little different for our customers to buy, with a practice side too, which is always nice."

Influenced By Colour

Plenty Of Winners "At Spring Fair, I was particularly impressed with the wealth of new product on the Widdop And Co. stand, with this well established, progressive company going from strength to strength," highlights Karen Ebers, owner, Something Special, Edenbridge.

"Also of note was Enesco's new M Gifts for Men, a range of 12 gift boxed, quality, useful items/multi tools with a range of price points to suit all budgets. I have pre-ordered these, although they will not be available until May which is perfect timing for Father's Day. Additionally, I opened a new account with Country Matters, which supplies a wide range of items with photographic images based on the countryside, to include umbrellas, shopping bags, lap trays, mugs, mini trays, thermal mugs and much more. It's early days, but sales so far have been sound."

Below: Enesco's M Gift for Men.

"We went to Top Drawer specifically looking for jewellery and scarves," confirms Jackie Humphreys, owner of Dragonfly in Cheam. "Alexander Thurlow's colourful jewellery caught our eye, as we were looking for colour, rather than silver, which is a trend this year. The jewellery comes gift boxed which was another plus, and early customer reactions have been very positive. Our eye was also drawn to Miss Milly's colourful jewellery ranges with product selling through since we took it on in January.

Meanwhile, at Spring Fair, we were very impressed with Fizz Creations' funky, quirky products, especially the light up unicorn," continues Jackie. "We also found plenty of items for men as well as children."

Above: Colourful jewellery from Miss Milly.

Left: With men in mind, the EQ Bluetooth speaker from Fizz Creations.

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Spring Trade Fairs

Attention Grabbers "One brand that always stands out is Culinary Concepts, and although we already stock the company’s products, the amazing test tube light really jumped out at Spring Fair, as we are looking to stock more lighting this year," explains Keiron Cockley, co-owner of Broncante in Fowey. "It looks fab with seasonal flowers in it, and we've already sold one to a customer for a larger hallway."

Continues Kieron, "One World Trading's stand again looked fantastic at the show, thanks to its inspirational room sets. We're helping to refurbish a hotel, and the snuggle chair was perfect for visiting couples to cosy up in. We bought some for both the hotel and the shop. Customer reaction has been very positive, and we are now waiting for a third delivery. In addition, the Marmalade stand made us stop and look too, as the impact of all the colours together was amazing. We couldn't wait to start stocking up for the new season."

Above: Marmalade's Pink Pepper and Plum candle.

Left: A cosy armchair from One World Trading.

Spoilt For Choice For Joan Greenway, managing director of Highfield Garden World, an independent garden centre in Gloucestershire, Hall 7 at Spring Fair was the stand-out hall.

"We were spoilt for choice," says Joan, who visited the show with a different buyer each day. "We stock giftware from a few £pounds to £hundreds of pounds, to suit all pockets, and in February alone, we had 4,000 till movements a week - excluding the restaurant! Overall, we have lots of retail space but very little storage space, so suppliers need to have the flexibility to keep us stocked up as products sell. This year at Spring Fair, we found some new suppliers and also bought from new ranges launched by old and existing suppliers."

On the new supplier front, Joan instinctively knew that her customers would love Edge Company's products to include stylish mirror-finish fruit bowls as well as taper candle holders from its Scandi Chic range. "We could see Quay Traders’ metal figures appealing too, mainly as potentially less expensive men's gifts," continues Joan. "We bought the footballer, golfer and several others, including some larger resin female figures in a higher price bracket. In addition, SDL Imports had some gorgeous cloisonné trinket boxes which we knew would appeal to our slightly older customers. With seasonal summer sales in mind, we also ordered in some of Shoeless Joe’s rustic beach-inspired gifts and accessories. All the products are now in, and I'm delighted to say that they’re all flying off the shelves!”

Above: A metallic fruit bowl from Edge Company.

Left: Quay Traders' golfer figurine.

Above: Whisky Frames made from whisky barrels and Harris Tweed.

Below right: The Llama Duster from Gift Republic.

Huge Hits "We attended Scotland’s Trade Show Spring, Top Drawer and Spring Fair," confirms Samantha Rose, co-owner of Maia Gifts In Glasgow. "At Scotland's Trade Show Spring, what caught our eye were Whisky Frames, a very novel gift concept. The frames are made from reclaimed whisky barrels and Harris Tweed. It's an authentic gift for whisky-lovers and tourists to Scotland, and won Best New Product at the show. Our order is on its way to us and I'm sure these will be a huge hit," predicts Samantha.

"With so much great choice at Spring Fair, the hardest thing every year is stopping ourselves from buying too much”, she continues. “Trends that we love in 2017 are llamas, monochrome, rose gold and also the palette of pastel tones that we saw on many products," she highlights. "A great new range we spotted was on the NPW stand called We Live Like This which is a contemporary stationery and gift collection with pastel tones and geometric designs. It has just arrived into stock in the past week and is certainly popular with our team, and early interest is good. A personal favourite however, is the Llama Duster from Gift Republic," confides Samantha.

"We just had to have these adorable guys once we spotted them on the stand as they make a perfect desk companion. Meanwhile, for something different, we ordered Choco greeting cards, a card and a little treat of chocolate in one. They're perfect for when just a card isn’t quite enough!" adds Samantha.

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What’s New Progressive Gifts & Home highlights some of the latest gift products to be showcased this month.

Inspired By Nature Three new scents have recently been launched into Ashleigh & Burwood’s Earth Secrets reed diffusers. The collection of petite 50ml reed diffusers, which is attractively priced for impulse purchases, features a series of nature-inspired fragrances, which now include three new scents of verdant Mint, floral Daisy & Daffodil & refreshing Sea Spray. Also available is a countertop display unit with room for ten different fragrances which makes merchandising the diffusers with testers simple.

Ashleigh & Burwood Tel: +44 (0) 1932 267060 Email: info@ashleigh-burwood.co.uk www.ashleigh-burwood-trade.co.uk

Decorative Reed Toppers National Gallery Inspired Walking stick specialists Classic Canes have collaborated with the National Gallery in London to produce a range of 12 walking sticks and folding canes based on three of the Gallery’s best-loved paintings: Van Gogh’s Sunflowers, Bosschaert the Elder’s Still Life of Flowers in a Wan Li Vase and Stubbs’ Whistlejacket. Managing Director Charlotte Gillan says, “The paintings have been reproduced beautifully and we expect them to be a very popular gift line.” For further information please visit our website or telephone us.

Classic Canes Tel: 01460 75686 www.classiccanes.co.uk

Following the success of the Christmas reed toppers introduced last year, this season, Ashleigh & Burwood present two new ceramic reed diffuser toppers in quaint and unique designs, added to The Scented Home collection. These are decorative ceramics which adorn the top of diffuser reeds to create a new aesthetic.

The new sets feature dainty ceramic figures of butterflies or birds atop natural wood tone reeds.

Ashleigh & Burwood Tel: +44 (0) 1932 267060 Email: info@ashleigh-burwood.co.uk www.ashleigh-burwood-trade.co.uk

Pearls, Pearls, Pearls Hot Tomato’s earrings provide a real double whammy this season in combining the latest must-have fashion accessory with gorgeous fresh water and faux pearls. Featured is a small selection from their comprehensive range of glorious jewels all aided and abetted by some innovative display and merchandising ideas. Complementary and bespoke pillow boxes complete the story and make Hot Tomato earrings a lovely thing to give or receive.

Hot Tomato Tel: 01225 422188 Email: sales@hot-tomatouk.com www.hot-tom.com

I Believe In Unicorns Up, Up And Away These stunning illuminated LED two tone coloured glass balloons are an absolute winner and joined over 2500 brand new gifts on Joe Davies stand at the very successful Spring Fair where the stunning display of LED balloons certainly had the ‘wow’ factor. The balloons complement Joe Davies’ hot selling, mason jars and bottles and build on the current trend for LED products. Selecting from the collection is easy and inexpensive using Joe Davies' trademark Little & Often ordering system.

Joe Davies Tel: 0161 975 6300 Email sales@joedavies.co.uk www.joedavies.co.uk

Equilibrium for Girls by Joe Davies has gone from strength to strength, with the recent launch of Rainbow charms and Mystical collections at Spring Fair ensuring the range is right on trend. The current craze for creating a unique piece of jewellery are met with the funky rainbow necklaces and bracelets with pretty charms which can be chosen and added to customise each piece All come beautifully packaged in signature Equilibrium for Girls pink and cream boxes.

Joe Davies Tel: 0161 975 6300 Email sales@joedavies.co.uk www.joedavies.co.uk

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Est. 2007 Fashion with passion!

www.hot-tom.com sales@hot-tomatouk.com Tel: 01225 422188

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What’s New Progressive Gifts & Home highlights some of the latest gift products to be showcased this month.

Picture Perfect Wild & Wolf showcased its full Polaroid collection at Spring Fair with a statement photo frame filled wall and rainbow-like stationery display. Frames include collage options, glitter filled, acrylic boarders and Polaroid’s classic boarder shaped solid colour frames. Desks will never be dull again with a Polaroid stationery haul, featuring flexicover notebooks, mini notebooks, ballpoint pens and exercise jotters. Handy small accessories include elastic band balls, paper clips, erasers and pins. All are available in Polaroid’s recognisable 10-colour spectrum.

Wild & Wolf Tel: 01225 789909 Email: sales@wildandwolf.com www.wildandwolf.com

Bedrock Meets Folk Art Three fabulous new figurines have been added to the Flintstones by Jim Shore collection for January 2017, following the successful mid-year launch last year.

Capturing all the humour of the original cartoons, the latest figurines have been inspired by three iconic scenes — Fred mowing the lawn, Wilma pushing daughter Pebbles in her pram and Dino jumping on Fred and licking his face. Jim Shore has skilfully combined the authenticity of HannaBarbera’s wacky characters with his unique decorative style.

Enesco Tel: 01228 404022 Email: uksales@enesco.co.uk www.enesco.co.uk

Spring Fair Takeover It was difficult to miss Orla Kiely and Wild & Wolf’s new launch at Spring Fair with an eye catching floralfilled stand. Bright colours and bold designs feature on unique garden, stationery and homeware pieces.

The new launch includes over 80 products, from ceramic kitchenware, hanging plant pots and unique floral shaped stationery pieces. Orla’s classic prints are instantly recognisable and will add statement to any area of the home. It’s an exciting time for Orla Kiely and Wild & Wolf. Prepare to see these prints everywhere!

Wild & Wolf Tel: 01225 789909 Email: sales@wildandwolf.com www.wildandwolf.com

Sumptuous Scents

HearthWick’s Summer The new HearthWick Trilogy range evokes the fragrances of lazy, hazy days of summer. Distributed by Xystos, the buyers’ favourite now features Botanical Garden – lilac, rose and honeysuckle scents – while Fruits of Summer has pineapple, lemon and coconut fragrances. There is also Nautical Escape and its trio of scents – At the Beach, Sand & Driftwood and Tropical Oasis – as well as the Odour Neutralising Candle. Each has an RRP of £29.99.

Xystos Tel: 0191 499 1570 Email: sales@xystos.co.uk www.xystostrade.co.uk

Shoppers now have the opportunity to create their own personal blend of fragrances when melted in a burner (pictured). The Basic Collection from Xystos comprises 36 sumptuous scents – fruity, fresh or sweet – while the Extended Collection also has three dozen fragrances. Buyers can order ScentChips in one-fragrance bags – weighing either 1,360 grams and containing approximately 226 pieces, or 500 grams with around 84 pieces. A choice of box is offered – small, holding eight pieces and with an RRP of £4.25; medium, 13 pieces, £6.49; large, 26 pieces, £12.99; extra-large, 38 pieces, £16.99.

Xystos Tel: 0191 499 1570 Email: sales@xystos.co.uk www.xystostrade.co.uk

Growing Village Village Candle was a big hit for Xystos at Spring Fair with a raft of retailers falling for the US brand. Fifty fragrances are being launched in large, medium and small sized jars, as well as wax melts, votives, reeds, car fresheners, drawer liners, sachets … and more. The candles are produced with pure essential oils and plant extracts from around the world, while only food grade paraffin wax and wax blends are used. The Dual Wick technology provides a slow, even burn in the jar and enhances fragrance release.

Xystos Tel: 0191 499 1570 Email: sales@xystos.co.uk www.xystostrade.co.uk PROGRESSIVE GIFTS & HOME WORLDWIDE

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What’s New Progressive Gifts & Home highlights some of the latest gift products to be showcased this month.

Pretty In Pink Lesser & Pavey's Redoute Rose range includes a glass cutting board, lap tray, tea towels, napkins, shopping bags, two different styles of fine china mugs, cup and saucer duo, a large breakfast mug as well as sets of two and four mugs, a teapot and teafor-one, sugar bowl and cream jug, coasters with placemats, teabag tidy, spoon rest, scented candles and three sizes of melamine trays. The range is extensive and one that continues to attract a lot of buyer attention.

Lesser & Pavey Tel: 01322 279225 Email: sales@leonardo.co.uk www.leonardo.co.uk

A Touch of Luxury

RD By La De Da! Living Make a statement with our stunning 100% cotton scarves. With eight different designs, each scarf is adorned with a beautiful and inspiring print, splashes of metallic silver foil detail and a slogan which makes them a perfect gift to suit all occasions. Each and every piece in the RD collection is beautifully encased in a luxury box complete with silver foiled detail for that finishing touch. #myrdstyle La de da Living Tel: 01242 250 653 Email: Enquiries@ladedaliving.co.uk www.trade.ladedaliving.co.uk

BLOX Stationery designs and publishes beautiful stationery with a touch of luxury.

Paper that doesn't smudge, co-ordinating grosgrain ribbon bookmarks and luxurious, hard wearing covers in a range of gorgeous colours.

The collection includes Academic and Calendar Year diaries, premium A4 and A5 notebooks, presented wrapped in tissue paper in gift boxes and, new this year, the BLOX Dot notebook with a dot grid layout perfect for bullet journaling or organised notes.

Mums Office Tel: 020 7733 8053 Email: info@bloxstationery.com www.bloxstationery.com

Poo Pourri Re-Launch Joe Davies are the exclusive gift channel distributor of Poo-Pourri in the UK and Eire. Already a massive success in the US, this unique product was re-launched at the Spring Fair with a new look across the range and a new fragrance: lavender & vanilla. Keeping bad smells trapped below, Poo-Pourri releases a pleasing, fragrant odour in the air. It is marketed with a wicked sense of humour and its very own brand identity too, with a distinctive retro image.

Joe Davies Tel: 0161 975 6300 Email sales@joedavies.co.uk www.joedavies.co.uk

This Season’s Must Haves Metallic, oversized, envelope clutch bags are a must-have this season. The bags have a detachable wrist strap for your requirements and, combined with their fun silver foiled slogans, they make the perfect gift to suit all occasions. Every piece in the RD collection is beautifully encased in a luxury box complete with silver foiled detail for that finishing touch. An in-store personalisation service is also available for the stockists of our bag collection. #myrdstyle La de da Living Tel: 01242 250 653 Email: Enquiries@ladedaliving.co.uk www.trade.ladedaliving.co.uk

Strawberry Summer Lesser & Pavey’s brand new tabletop range ,Strawberry Fayre, is of the highest quality and consists of glass cutting board, lap tray, tea towels and napkins, Summertime shopping bag, two different shaped fine china mugs, a cup and saucer, breakfast mug as well as sets of two mugs and four mugs, teapot and tea for one accompanied by a jug and sugar/cream, coasters and placemats, three sizes of melamine trays, a teabag tidy, spoonrest and scented candles.

Lesser & Pavey Tel: 01322 279225 Email: sales@leonardo.co.uk www.leonardo.co.uk

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What’s New Progressive Gifts & Home highlights some of the latest gift products to be showcased this month.

Wedding Keepsake The wedding season is upon us! Trying to find that ‘just perfect’ gift or table decoration that will have everyone talking about how fabulous your big day was! Light up the happy couples’ day and home with Boxer’s new wedding Starlight bottles. These beautiful pearlescent bottles are filled with shimmering star effect LED lights which will be a perfect keepsake decoration to remind the happy couple of their special day.

Boxer Gifts Tel: 01133 955595 Email: sales@boxergifts.com www.boxergifts.com

OCD Sign The office can at times just be soooo boring!

So, we introduced a range of desk humour novelty gifts to liven up your desk and workspace. These desk warning signs are not only funny they are also practical if you are trying to keep away unwanted colleagues without being too rude!

Boxer Gifts Tel: 01133 955595 Email: sales@boxergifts.com www.boxergifts.com

Fabulously Floral Award winning jewellery brand Shrieking Violet has an exciting new range of colourful bracelets and chokers made with real flowers set in sterling silver with a coloured suede strap. Available in 12 designs that include rose, poppy, daisy, forget-me-not, fourleaf clover and mixed flowers. The bracelets and chokers are the perfect summer accessory and have an RRP of £18 and £20.

Shrieking Violet Tel: 0208 521 9151 Email: mail sales@flowerjewellery.com www.flowerjewellery.com

Inspired By The Countryside Leading the way this Spring/Summer season is Dew’s gorgeous brand new collection available now in a new style catalogue for 2017. Country Living features charming designs inspired by the countryside. Everyone loves puppies, and the Dew retailer and consumer will adore our new silver dog motif pendants and studs. In solid form or stencil cut there is a whole kennel full of cute canines from the bonnie beagle with its golden ears to our precious little silver pug studs. The new cuddly cockerpoo design is destined to be a winner! Dew is a contemporary and feminine every day and occasion sterling silver jewellery brand showcasing versatile, wearable designs – many exclusively designed in-house – with Dew branded point of sale displays and packaging featuring eye catching graphics to support the collection. Dew’s 2017 catalogue is available now.

Kit Heath Tel: 01271 329123 Email: sales@kitheath.com www.kitheathretailer.com

Prettily Personal Shrieking Violet is now offering mixed flower initial necklaces. These would make a fantastic gift with a personal touch. They comprise tiny flowers set in resin and bound in sterling silver and are supplied on an adjustable length chain, and presented in luxurious branded packaging, with a RRP of only £29.99. Trade customers are offered free display stands and POS signs. To view Shrieking Violets full range please visit their website.

Shrieking Violet Tel: 0208 521 9151 Email: mail sales@flowerjewellery.com www.flowerjewellery.com

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What’s New Progressive Gifts & Home highlights some of the latest gift products to be showcased this month.

Glittering Gifts

Angel Giftware Expands Inspired to celebrate the special people that all of us are touched by in our lives, the You are an Angel range of figurines has been extended to cover more occasions, with extra merchandise to add to the success of the new figurines. The range now covers wish bottles, fridge magnets, notepads, key chains, pins, magnetic bookmarks and mugs. These products offer consumers a fresh, new way to honour the people that matter to every one of us. Gaeltag will be showing Here’s to You at PG Live, stand 527 Gaeltag Keltika Tel: 020 8998 1781 Email: sales@gaeltag.com www.gaeltagkeltika.com

LED lamps make great gift ranges as well as dazzling additions to any Christmas display, and Premier’s new glitter lamps combine a number of exciting retail opportunities. Based on a similar principle to a snow globe, these eye-catching creations are filled with water and have battery operated movement inside which blows the water and glitter bringing a depth of colour-changing reality to the scene inside. These offer retailers great value with Premier’s special pallet deals.

Premier Tel: 020 8624 5555 Email: sales@premierdec.com www.premierdec.com

Get The Party Started A party atmosphere can be created in seconds with this fabulous new LED Party bulb. Simply plug into an existing light fitting and flick the switch to turn any room into a disco with colourful patterned lights across the room.

Presented in eye-catching POS, these must-have party accessories make great add on ranges in any store.

Premier Tel: 020 8624 5555 Email: sales@premierdec.com www.premierdec.com

Scents To Fall In Love With Fall in Love with the newest range this Autumn from Yankee Candle. Warming up dark evenings with Vibrant Saffron and Autumn Glow, you can create a cosy atmosphere on wintry nights with the choice of comforting scents including Mulberry & Fig Delight and Warm Cashmere. Launching in August 2017, the Yankee Candle Fall In Love range is available for retailers to order now alongside a huge choice of accessories including jar holders and candle shades that will transform your Autumn.

Yankee Candle Tel: 0117 316 1200 Email: sales@yankeecandle.co.uk www.Yankeecandle.co.uk

Cheers!

Pour your Prosecco into an authentic Italian tulip-shaped Prosecco glass and maximise the bubbles in your favourite fizz! Based on Megan Claire card designs, Gaeltag Keltika will be showcasing the latest elegant additions to their gift glassware range, Here’s to You, at PG Live. All four new wine glasses, plus the two specially developed Prosecco glasses, are in rose gold or gold metallic lettering and etched effects, featuring Megan Claire’s witty and warm sentiments.

Gaeltag Keltika Tel: 020 8998 1781 Email: sales@gaeltag.com www.gaeltagkeltika.com

Tropical Fragrances Bring a taste of the tropics into your home with Yankee Candle’s new Viva Havana range. Treat yourself to a guilt free Cuban Mojito, relax to the floral fragrance of Tobacco flower, or indulge in scents of Delicious Guava or heady Viva Havana. Available in a range of sizes, the Viva Havana range is available to order now and launches May this year. Staying at home has never been so exotic.

Yankee Candle Tel: 0117 316 1200 Email: sales@yankeecandle.co.uk www.Yankeecandle.co.uk PROGRESSIVE GIFTS & HOME WORLDWIDE

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Best Sellers Progressive Gifts & Home asked a selection of retailers about the products which have been flying off their shelves this month.

Chris and John Morrison, co-owners, Apples & Pears, West Byfleet A medium sized gift shop in a shopping precinct.

CATEGORY

SUPPLIERS/RANGES

COMMENT

Decorative Home Accessories

Dartington: Prosecco for One

An idea gift. Beautifully packaged and on trend.

It's very trendy and brings in a younger customer.

Joe Davies: ceramic heart dish Fragranced Giftware

Heyland & Whittle: reed diffusers; Stoneglow: reed diffusers

Jewellery

Ronin: gemstones Elements: silver and gold

Fashion Accessories

The Prosecco and Clementine fragrance flies off the shelves.

Outstanding, long lasting fragrances in coloured glassware. Products are British made.

Above: Apples & Pears, West Byfleet.

Beautiful colours that go with everything. The jewellery is handmade in Wales.

A good range across the spectrum. The designs are striking.

Quintessential: across the board; Mele: leather purses

The company keeps up with the trends. Their silk scarves come boxed.

Greeting Cards

Second Nature

Champagne is our best seller.

Giftwrap

Glick

The wrap is colour co-ordinated with something for all occasions.

Other Hot Hits

Jellycat: across the board

The brown Ostrich has become a best seller.

Good quality leather, vibrant colours and very stylish designs.

Eileen Bannerman, owner, Besotted...xx, Milngavie A small village gift shop.

CATEGORY

SUPPLIERS/RANGES

COMMENT

Decorative Home Accessories

Transomnia: across the board; The Satchville Gift Company: across the board

Competitive price points and some really good sellers.

Products are very different with things you don't find elsewhere.

Fragranced Giftware

Xystos: WoodWick;

Customers love the concept of the candle crackling. Fragrances are lovely and the packaging is beautiful.

These are the best sellers in the range.

Amazing price points.

Dekassa: Prosecco and Cocktail candles

Above: Besotted...xx, Milngavie.

Jewellery

Hot Tomato: across the board; Joe Davies: Equilibrium

Great prices, lovely designs, plus, there's always something new.

A great range across the board, especially for customers looking for boxed jewellery.

Fashion Accessories

Powder: across the board; Zelly: across the board

The Spring collection is fabulous. Outstanding packaging.

A very affordable, contemporary range of fashion accessories.

Greeting Cards

Berni Parker

A fun range of cards that our customers seem to love.

Giftwrap

Glick

There are always new designs being added to the collection.

Other Hot Hits

Rainbow Designs; Peter Rabbit and Guess How Much I Love You

These two classic ranges never date and appeal to mothers and grandmothers as well as children.

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Frances Doran, co-owner, The Bottom Drawer, Portadown A high street lifestyle shop.

CATEGORY

SUPPLIERS/RANGES

COMMENT

Decorative Home Accessories

Gisela Graham: coastal range;

The company's coastal products are ideal for fresh Spring displays.

The sentiments are very popular. Plus, the plaques are presented in a gift box.

East of India: wooden plaques

Fragranced Giftware

Bog Standard: candles; LilyFlame: reed diffusers

Jewellery

These candles are divine, and the packaging is very pretty.

Once customers try them, they keep on coming back for more.

Joma Jewellery: 'A Little'; Shira Designer Jewellery: across the board

A very popular range with a sentiment for every occasion.

Beautiful packaging and great designs.

Above: The Bottom Drawer,

Earth Squared: scarves and handbags; Katie Loxton: across the board

The matching scarves and handbags can often lead to a double sale.

Greeting Cards

Wendy Jones-Blackett

We love the simple designs and bright colours in the Quicksilver range.

Giftwrap

Caroline Gardner: across the board

The wrap is always a very strong seller.

Other Hot Hits

Widdop and Co: Vintage Wedding

Beautiful wooden keepsakes ranging from horseshoes to keepsake boxes.

Fashion Accessories

Portadown.

The price points, combined with a great colour range, make the products a really popular gift.

Nathaniel Mobbs, buyer, The National Gallery Shops, London Three Gallery gift shops.

CATEGORY

SUPPLIERS/RANGES

COMMENT

Decorative Home Accessories

Incognito: London Underground bottle opener;

A consistently good seller.

It's practical and decorative as well as being a souvenir of the city.

We introduced this mug for our Caravaggio exhibition.

Following its success, we will be adding it to our core range.

Temerity Jones: Icarus Wing mug

Fragranced Giftware

Ashleigh & Burwood: candles and diffusers

These have soft scents inspired by paintings such as Monet's Water-Lily Pond and Van Gogh's Sunflowers.

Decorative gift boxes add to the appeal.

Jewellery

Estella Bartlett: charm necklaces

A great impulse buy. Our selection includes designs relevant to the Gallery such as feathers, flowers, horses and ships.

Fashion Accessories

Helen Moore: faux fur scarves; Made by Talented: totes and cosmetic bags

These faux fur scarves add a luxurious element to our offer. Their modern take on traditional pieces work well.

The range, in canvas and denim, are both modern and patriotic.

Greeting Cards

Portfolio Designs

The National Gallery collection features a wonderful selection of works from the Gallery, with options for every occasion.

Giftwrap

Cavallini

Our best selling giftwraps are the designs of world maps and London scenes. There is usually something that will work with our exhibition themes.

Other Hot Hits

Fulton: umbrellas;

The National Gallery licensed range features striking reproductions of paintings from the collection.

We do very well with the company's antiques wooden items, in particular, the Artist's Horse, which resembles Whistlejacket, the racehorse in Stubbs’ masterpiece.

Authentic Models: wooden items

Above: One of the National Gallery gift shops.

PROGRESSIVE GIFTS & HOME WORLDWIDE

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Discover more...

NEW FOR 2017 Fridge Magnets

Magnetic Bookmarks

Pin Cards

www.gaeltagkeltika.com Call +44 (0) 20 8998 1781 Email sales@gaeltag.com

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VISIT US AT

PG LIVE STAND 527

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Best Sellers

What better testimonial for products than those of your fellow retailers. Here's all the information you need to get in touch and start stocking!

GISELA GRAHAM T: 020 7708 4956 E: sales@giselagraham.co.uk W: www.giselagraham.co.uk

JOE DAVIES T: 0161 975 6300 E: sales@joedavies.co.uk W: www.joedavies.co.uk

JOE DAVIES T: 0161 975 6300 E: sales@joedavies.co.uk W: www.joedavies.co.uk

WENDY JONES-BLACKETT T: 0113 2888468 E: info@wendyjonesblackett.co.uk W: www.wendyjonesblackett.co.uk

GLICK T: 01274 655980 E: info@glick.co.uk W: www.glick.co.uk

STONEGLOW T: 020 8595 8878 E: sales@stoneglowcandles.co.uk W: www.stoneglowcandles.co.uk

HOT TOMATO LTD T: 01225 422188 E: sales@hot-tomatouk.com W: www.hot-tom.com

DARTINGTON CRYSTAL T: 01805 626226 E: sales@dartington.co.uk W: www.dartington.co.uk

XYSTOS T: 0191 499 1570 E: sales@xystos.co.uk W: www.xystostrade.co.uk Progressive Gifts & Home Worldwide

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On The Road Beverley Tapper "Despite a general mood of uncertainty, notably Brexit, price rises and the increase in business rates, the first quarter has nevertheless seen a very positive start to 2017," says gift agent Beverley Tapper, a former retailer, who has been 'on the road' for five years. Her principals include IF That Company Called, Star Editions, Ivyline, Willoughby Toys and Little Pals.

"Fortunately, the majority of gift shops and garden centres had a very good festive season, with products selling through," confirms Beverley. "Therefore January, traditionally a quiet month, was much busier than usual, with retailers keen to do top ups and place orders. Customers weren't particularly cautious either," she adds.

"They weren't penny pinching, and it was not about carriage paid.

Shops were ordering what they wanted and needed in terms of quantities and certainly weren't sitting on the fence. In fact, I did lots of good forward orders for the first quarter of the year back in September and October of last year."

Beverley says that even price increases, while obviously a concern for many retailers, don't seem to have had a major impact.

"Retailers have known that they were inevitable since Brexit, due to the ÂŁpound: $dollar exchange rate, so while customers have been naturally concerned, they have also been more accepting, knowing that the increases were going to happen this year. Also, a lot of suppliers are only putting prices up where they feel they have to,

with other lines remaining unchanged.

For example, one of my principals streamlined their supply chain in order to keep their prices in check. I believe that if companies do their bit then hopefully, there won't be too dramatic an increase pricewise. We're all aware that we're living in a period of change, but most of us also know that, whatever happens, life will go on."

However, business rates, which will increase for the majority of small businesses on April 1, is another matter.

"For many shops, inevitably, there will be an increase, but until it happens it's difficult to take a view as to the future of independents," Beverley points out. "Hopefully, some local councils will look to ease the burden for small companies, but obviously we won't know the full picture until it happens."

Looking at the second quarter of the year, Beverley says that she's continuing to feel confident, based on the premise that her customers are feeling confident. ""I'm very encouraged by the start to this year, and I'm very much looking forward to the next quarter. As an agent, it remains very important that I go and see my customers face to face, as nothing beats a personal visit," she emphasises.

"Plus, my big push this year is to really increase my customer base so I will be getting out and about as much as possible."

Last Word Tim Willoughby Tim Willoughby is managing director of Ocean Media, and is also show director of the London Stationery Show which takes place from April 25-26 at the Business Design Centre.

Married to Sam Willoughby, show director of International Jewellery London (IJL), he is a prolific artist, loves to cycle and snowboard, and enjoys reading the Mr. Men books to his two children. l How would you describe yourself in three words? "Driven, dependable and dry," as well as "curious, collaborative and cheeky!" l Can you tell us a quirky fact that we don't know about you?

"I graduated with a first class honours degree in fine arts from Reading University. The last thing I did was a painting by numbers of a street in Weybridge. The residents painted it during a street party. I have also exhibited and sold more than ÂŁ5,000 worth of paintings with a gallery called Britart, and exhibited alongside a number of famous artists including Peter Blake. Comedian Vic Reeves has painted one of my paintings by numbers." l Did you have a career Plan B? "I would have been an art teacher." l What's the best advice you've ever been given? "'Take it personally then you'll win', and 'often a no is as good as a yes.

Just move on.'" l What advice would you give someone just starting out?

"Even being lucky takes hard work. There aren't silver bullets and short cuts when it comes to events."

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PROGRESSIVE GIFTS & HOME WORLDWIDE

l What are your favourite TV programmes? "The Missing, The Simpsons and American Pickers." l What's your favourite book?

"I've made everyone in my team read From Good To Great by Jim Collins. I'm also a fan of the Mr. Men books." l What's your favourite movie?

"The Usual Suspects." l What's your favourite country to visit? "New Zealand for its scenery and mountains. I love riding my bike there, and adore the life." l How do you start your day? "I wake at 6am and am at my desk by 8.20am. However, my day invariably begins by convincing my 5 year old daughter to get dressed!" l How do you end your day? "Watching something on TV with a glass of wine, and chatting to my wife about our respective shows." l What's been the best gift that you've received? "A radio controlled car which runs at 55 miles an hour." l What's been the best gift that you've given to someone else? "I worked with my wife's favourite jewellery designer, Sarah Jordan, to create a circle of life necklace featuring 40 diamonds that together weigh 0.4 of a carat. I had it specially made for her 40th birthday." l Which item you would you take to a desert island?

"My favourite mountain bike."

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BASED IN SCOTLAND AND LOOKING FOR A NEW CHALLENGE?

BESPOKE

Do you want to work with exciting, innovative, design led brands - all with an established, upmarket customer base?

Manufacturer & distributor at your door.

Your one stop shop for bespoke photo frames.

A field sales role has arisen at a leading Scottish gift agency.

Just a few reasons to buy from Joe Davies

Wood, plastic, metal & glass frames.

Over 8000 gift items Low £100 minimum order ‘Little & Often’ order system Free carriage

T: 01908976443 E: sales@homsquare.co.uk www.homsquare.co.uk

Please contact our Award Winning sales staff for further details.

Tel: 0161 975 6300 Email sales@joedavies

GIFTS & GREETINGS

The role would suit a sub agent, but a salaried role will be considered for the right candidate. Location flexible.

Part time considered.

GIFT IMPORTERS & DISTRIBUTORS

www.joedavies.co.uk

TRADE ASSOCIATION

The Giftware Association is at the heart of the UK’s gift and home industry with 70 years unique experience listening to your needs and finding solutions to your problems. We can help you make money, save money and save time with or knowledge and contacts within the industry.

Website: www.ga-uk.org Email: enquiries@ga-uk.org Tel: 0121 237 1104 10 Vyse St, Birmingham B18 6LT

Email salesagencyscotland@gmail.com in confidence for further information

It costs as little as £250 per annum to advertise in the Product Directory.

Contact Angie Bryant on 01993 212 994 for further information.

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