Progressive Gifts & Home March/April 2024

INTRODUCING

We are proud to launch our biggest collection to date; an abundance of styles and finishes from our best-selling artists.

PRESENTING

New curated collections and an unprecedented number of new products for the year ahead!

The

UK’s premier showcase of housewares, tabletop & small electrical brands

Welcome to the March/April issue of Progressive Gifts & Home that celebrates the great and the good in the gift industry! We’re delighted to fanfare the finalists in both The Greats gift retailer awards as well as the Gift of the Year awards in this issue, so for those of you who don’t already know who they are, turn to pages 28-29 and 46-47 respectively for the full listings.

We’re now on the countdown to the fabulous Gift Awards, where the winners of both competitions will be jointly announced on Thursday 16 May at the glamorous Royal Lancaster Hotel in London, which overlooks Hyde Park. The event will again be uniting the retailer and product sides of the gift industry and is attended by everyone who is anyone in gifts, so make sure you book your tickets to the hottest night on the gift industry’s calendar! Turn to page 9 for details.

Meanwhile, for more in depth industry news, this issue also reveals the findings of our latest, unique annual Retail Barometer, now in its 18th year, which drills down into what life was really like for gift independents in 2023. Turn to pages 19-27 to discover how gift indies fared in another

challenging year. As always, the findings make a fascinating read, so a big shout out to all the great gift retailers who participated in this year’s survey. We couldn’t do it without you!

On the exhibition front meanwhile, excitement is building for dedicated greeting card show Progressive Greetings Live 2024 which will be opening its doors on June 4-5. For the full show lowdown, turn to pages 36-37, and to pages 32-33 for more about this year’s London Stationery Show which is under the new ownership of Max Publishing.

“The term ‘stationery’ dates back to the Middle Ages, but the product innovation from well-loved brands, as well as newer players that will be showcased at LSS, continues this rich legacy with great aplomb,” states Jakki Brown, co-owner of Max Publishing. Expect the unexpected when the doors open on 14-15 May! Both shows take place at London’s Business Design Centre in Islington.

Productwise, with Father’s Day homing into view on 16 June, we bang the drum for a diverse, eclectic array of men’s gifts. Turn to pages 38-39. Plus, with Joe Davies now a 100% employee-owned company, ceo Steve

Davies, and managing director Paul Hooker, talk us through an emotional announcement day, along with what’s new for the coming season. Turn to pages 42-43.

Elsewhere, The Giftware Association’s ceo Sarah Ward looks back at her ‘Spring shows safari’, sharing her feedback on the nine shows she visited at the beginning of the year (turn to page 31), while Libby Holden, of Lovely Libby’s in Rayleigh, who has recently taken over the running of The Olive Branch in Billericay - following her mum Tracy’s retirement - reveals her busiest Mother’s Day to date. Turn to page 35. Plus, for all the very latest industry news and views, turn to pages 9-17.

But first, take a look at our ultimate home fragrancing supplement, Guide To Home Fragrance, enclosed with this issue of PG&H, which has everything you need to know about this prolific gifting sector that continues to roll out new formats to reflect consumer demand.

Enjoy both issues, and looking forward to seeing you at The Gift Awards in May!

Village Pottery

Pebble Angels

‘Greats’ Reactions From Finalists

“We’re Over The Moon” Rejoice Gift Retailers

Whoops of delight could be heard on Monday (18 March) as gift retailers up and down the country received the fabulous news that they were among the finalists of The Greats Awards 2024, with everyone excited to share their reactions.

“We were literally dancing around the shop singing, "We are the champions, we are the champions! No time for losers, because we are the champions!" enthused Helen Crawford, co-owner of The Old School Beauly, a finalist in the Independent Gift Retailer of the Year –Scotland category.

“This news absolutely made my day. I shouted out loud!” said Caroline Ranwell, owner of Hugs & Kisses in Tettenhall, a finalist in the Independent Gift Retailer of the Year – Midlands & Wales category.

Concurred Alice Miller, manager at Bumbles in Ashtead, a finalist in the Independent Gift Retailer of the Year – London, South, South East & East Anglia category. “I am really super proud of my team and our small business here in Ashtead.”

In Pollockshields, Shirley Maciver, owner of Orange Blossom Home & Gift, a finalist in the

The Gift Awards Unite The Gift Industry

The fabulous Gift Awards will be held at London’s glittering Royal Lancaster Hotel, bringing together The Giftware Association’s Gift of the Year Awards and The Greats gift retailer awards – currently celebrating their 22nd milestone year - organised and owned by Max Publishing, publishers of Progressive Gifts & Home/GiftsandHome.net.

At the lavish awards event, both gift product excellence and retail prowess will be recognised and rewarded.

Best Newcomer Gift Retailer category, stated: “I am flabbergasted and thrilled - overjoyed! What an amazing surprise.”

Meanwhile, in Brightlingsea, Olivia and Peter Reilly, co-owners of Little Boat Gifts, were literally jumping for joy! That's such fantastic news,” commented Olivia. “It's a real mood booster – we’re incredibly proud to make it through to the finals. It means a lot,” she emphasised.

To see the full list of finalists, turn to pages 26-27.

The Gift Awards Sponsors

The UK Gift Awards 2024 are supported by a strong roster of sponsors, including Aspin, Autumn Fair, British Allied Trade Federation (BATF), Candlelight, Cardgains, Carte Blanche Greetings, Cotton & Grey, DKB, Exposé Travel, Gift Republic, The Giftware Association (GA), Gisela Graham, Harrogate Christmas & Gift Fair, Home & Gift, Life Charms, Lifestyle Motivates, London Stationery Show, Messe Frankfurt, N Smith, Progressive Gifts & Home, Progressive Greetings Live, Scotland Trade Fair, Spring Fair, Talking Tables and Widdop & Co.

Tickets and tables for the awards event on Thursday 16 May can be booked via the Max Publishing digital box office at MaxTickets.net, or by contacting event organiser Createvents: clare@createvents.co.uk or 0118 334 0085.

To find out more about The Gift Awards and to book tickets, visit www.thegiftawards.com and www.thegreatsawards.co.uk

Celebrating The GOTY Finalists

Following a live judging at Spring Fair in February, the six finalists in the 20 Gift of the Year categories were announced by The Giftware Association, (see pages 46-47 for the full listing), with the winners revealed at The Gift Awards taking place at the Royal Lancaster Hotel in London on 16 May. (See The Gift Awards Unite The Gift Industry, left).

“It was great to be back at Spring Fair for the third consecutive year to live judge the shortlisted entries, with the area allowing the products to shine and also receive the attention they deserve,” commented the GA’s PR and marketing manager Chris Workman. “The event attracted attention throughout the show, with visitors using the area as a stop off point to find exciting products.”

Adds Chris: “It was also great to hear about the traffic that our shortlisted exhibitors got to their stands through their products being on display in the GOTY judging area.”

The People’s Choice Award

Once again, The Giftware Association will be announcing the winner of the Gift of the Year People’s Choice award which is judged by the general public, enabling everyone to vote for their favourite product across all GOTY categories.

As with previous years, the GA has opened the category up to all shortlisted products. “With well over 3,000 votes and counting, there is still an opportunity for a shortlisted company to get through to become the third ever People’s Choice winner,” highlights the GA’s PR and marketing manager Chris Workman. Visit www.giftoftheyear.co.uk

Lark Opens In Weybridge

Lark London is continuing its retail expansion in Surrey, recently opening a new store in Weybridge, bringing the total number of stores in Lark’s retail portfolio to 19.

Over the past year, in addition to Weybridge, new Lark stores have opened in Blackheath, East Sheen, Esher, Putney, Richmond, Southfields and Woking.

Top: Alice Milner, manager at Bumbles. Above: Thumbs up from Maybugs co-owners John Below: Jumping for joy! Little Boat Gifts’ owner Olivia and Peter Reilly.

Below: London’s Royal Lancaster Hotel.

Above: Fox Under The Moon won the GOTY People’s Choice Award in 2023.

Above: GOTY judges at the live judging.

‘92% of gift retailers reported that in 2023, their stationery product sales grew or remained on a par’ PG&H Retail Barometer

Chancellor’s Budget Disappoints

A Mixed Reaction From The Gift Industry

With hopes riding on a business rate reform, there was a mixed reaction to the Chancellor’s March Budget from the gift industry.

“Though tax adjustments may not directly sway the retail landscape, the potential uplift in consumers' disposable income offers a sense of empowerment in spending decisions,” commented Widdop & Co’s ceo

Stephen Illingworth highlighting a positive, while Vanessa Curry, managing director of Best Kept Secrets, said: “The 2p reduction in National Insurance is welcome. However, it was disappointing that there was no special help for SMEs with regards to business rates.”

At Hot Tomato, managing director Alex Machin stated: “This was clearly a Budget set with an election in its sights. The 2% cut on National Insurance mirrors what the Chancellor did in November, but both will simply be swallowed up

PG&H Retail Barometer Findings

by higher prices in general. The £5k increase in the VAT registration (£90k as of April), is welcome, but I’m not convinced it will be enough to lubricate the wheels and grow small businesses significantly. Rather, it will leave them static which is a real shame and a missed opportunity.”

Gift retailer Anne Barber, owner of In Heaven At Home in Market Harborough, succinctly summed up the feeling of many gift indies: “With our increased salary costs, high utility bills and customers suffering from the cost of living crisis, in particular, high mortgage interest rates, and food and fuel costs, it would have been appreciated if the Chancellor could have seen how very tough things are for small businesses and done something more to help. It really is very hard to make a decent living with so many negative impacts.”

The latest PG&H Retail Barometer – a unique annual survey which tracks the health and wealth of independent gift retailers - revealed that, despite the ongoing cost of living crisis, which it was feared would affect consumer spending on non-essentials, to include gifts - 2023 was actually a good year for many gift indies, with their business up12% on 2022. Some 59% of those surveyed invested in their website, with half sprucing up their shops with new units.

For most independent gift retailers, although not all, Christmas saw the tills ringing, with the average festive sales about the same as the previous year or slightly up. Across the year, star performing product sectors were home fragrancing and plush, followed by greeting cards.

Looking to this year, encouragingly, there is plenty of optimism, with a whopping 89% hoping to see marginal growth, significant growth or remaining on a par with last year. Turn to pages 17-25.

Marvellous Mother’s Day

With Mother’s Day the second most important gift giving occasion for gift retailers, the occasion didn’t disappoint, with gift retailers reporting a very successful event.

In Colchester, Bill Nettelfield, owner of Bill & Bert’s, exclaimed: “Wow! Mother’s Day really came with a bang this year. Sales were far greater than anticipated and came right across the board.”

Samantha Gibbs, owner of Nest gift shops in Stoneygate, Staughton Grange and Thurlaston Garden Centre commented: “Mother’s Day was a lovely week. Over the Mother’s Day weekend we had an exceptional Saturday in all our shops. There was an energy in the air and an optimism. It felt like a really positive day and we were busy right up until late afternoon.”

Also reporting that the tills were jingling was Karen Ritchie, owner of The Rowan Tree in Budleigh Salterton. “Small gifts and cards sold well,” she confirmed. “I think people were spending a little more than last year on their gifts and it was lovely to see the care taken in choosing both cards and gifts for their special mums.”

For Maddison in Harborne, it was a bit of a slow start. “However, Mother’s Day gained momentum and we eventually had a very good week,” confirmed manager Bev Yates.

Rainy February Dampened Spend

The latest figures from the British Retail Consortium and KPMG revealed that sales increased by 1.1% year on year in February, compared to a growth of 5.2% in February 2023.

“Consumer demand was dampened by the wettest February on record, translating into a poor month of retail sales growth,” stated Helen Dickinson OBE, chief executive of the British Retail Consortium.

Below: A wet February saw retail sales slow.

Dunelm To Open New London Stores

Dunelm is continuing to go from strength to strength, with expansion plans for 2024 including new London stores. This follows four new store openings in the second half of last year, taking the total to 183, with the retailer continuing to invest for the long term. This includes brand marketing, store openings, and digitalising the business.

Announcing the company’s interim results for the 26 weeks to 30 December, 2023, total sales for the period were £872.5m, up 4.5% year-on-year. Market share increased in both homewares and furniture.

Digital sales too, continued to grow, with 36% of sales generated through digital channels, up 2% on the same period last year. Below:

Dunelm delivered a strong first half, seeing profits and sales rise.

Above: Emma Bridgewater’s ‘Mum’ mugs.

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Inspirational Women In Gifts

The Event Celebrated International Women’s Day

The second Women In Gifts conference, organised by The Giftware Association, was held at the GA’s HQ in Birmingham at the beginning of March to tie in with International Women’s Day. Following on from the GA’s successful first Women in Gifts conference in December, the latest event featured four inspirational speakers –watercolour artist Meg Hawkins, founder of her eponymous company, Heather Watherston founder of Wiz Kid Games, BGifted’s founder Fi Burge and Buy-From managing director Louise

Consumers Are Promiscuous, Says Theo Paphitis

Welsby, who is also chair of the GA. Retail panellists featured Sara Allbright of Retail 100 Consulting, Laura Matheson of St Peters Garden Centre, Joanna Final of Social Enterprise UKeBay for Change, Samantha Gibbs of Nest, and Alex Becket of Ivy and Rose Gifts.

“It was great to spend a wonderful International Women’s Day with so many of our industry’s phenomenal women,” enthused the GA’s ceo Sarah Ward. “Building on our first Women in Gifts Day we heard from some incredible businesswomen who have built their businesses within our industry. It was great to hear their successes, their pitfalls and everything in between. It was also brilliant hearing from our retail panel who offered insights into their buying trends and how to approach buyers and where to meet buyers. We hope that everyone left feeling inspired and had a fantastic day with their peers.” The event also raised money for The Benevolent Society with delegates shopping for donated gifts from The GA’s members. The next Women In Gifts event takes places on 22 November. Visit www.giftwareassociation.org

It was standing room only when retail entrepreneur and former TV ‘Dragon’ Theo Paphitis took the Inspiring Retail Stage at Spring Fair in February to talk about opportunities and challenges for retail businesses. “As customer behaviour changes your stores have to have a reason to exist, for customers to shop with you today, tomorrow and the day after that,” he told the audience.

“Customers are far more promiscuous than they ever were,” he pointed out. “It’s like a one night stand. People move from one brand to another and can shop from anywhere at any time, so retailers have to ensure that their customers have a reason to come back to them.”

Highlighting the importance of bringing online and offline retail together, he explained: “Technology has moved sharply – there are ready made products to help – so retailers can now mix their physical and digital offering far cheaper than ever before.” He added that retailers also need to use social media to engage not shout. “You have to be able to mix technology with your business and also keep an open mind,” he stated.

Retailers Must Be Brave

Designer Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen, a familiar face at Spring Fair, unveiled a ‘mob wife’ decorative home accessories range for Febland, emphasising the importance of attaching emotion and passion to the things that people want to buy.

“A lot of consumers are mistrusting the absolute bargain end of the market,” he commented. “They know when something is a cover. They want to fall in love, and when they buy something they want it to be worth it. So now is an opportunity for retailers to buy brave, because those that do will sell loads of products.”

Never Give Up

The keynote speaker on the final day of Spring Fair included an audience with the ‘Princess of Punk’, pioneering British fashion and textile designer Dame Zandra Rhodes, who talked a packed audience through her journey in design, from launching her own collection of chiffon kaftans in 1969 to her many collaborations with the likes of Ikea and Happy Socks.

Offering advice to the audience, she emphasised: “Never give up! The world might be changing but we have to hope that we will adapt. We have to take advantage of the opportunities that come along and run with them. It’s better to aim for something, to reach for to the stars, than to regret it for the rest of your life.”

Above: Dame Zandra Rhodes speaking at Spring Fair.

James Gets On His Bike For Charity

James Hudson, commercial director at Gallery Direct, is preparing for a 400k four day charity bike ride organised by Help for Heroes. The Big Battlefield Bike Ride will take place from 24- 29 June 2024, and will commemorate the D-Day 80th Anniversary and Armed Forces Day. James, who has a military background, has signed up for the ride, with a fund-raising campaign that’s aiming to raise £3,000 for the organisers, Help for Heroes.

“I will be paying all my own travel costs and therefore 100% of the donations that I receive will go directly to the charity,” explains James. “I’m really excited about the challenge and looking forward to getting on my bike for the French tour.”

The ride starts from Sainte-Mere-Eglise in Northern France going to the D-Day beaches Omaha, Gold and Juno. It will then follows the path of British expeditionary forces by exploring Bayeux, Lisieux and Bernay, concluding in Paris on Armed Forces Day. Visit www.gallerydirect.co.uk

Above: Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen on the Febland stand.

Below: Theo Paphitis in conversation with Natalie Berg.

Left: Women In Gifts keynote speakers were: from left to right: Fi Burgess, Heather Watherston, Meg Hawkins and Louise Welsby.

Above: Gallery Direct’s James Hudson.

PG Live has lots of great retailer fans…

“PG Live was SO very good and we came away completely inspired. Everyone we saw brought their A game to the show. There was lots of inspiration, newness and clear points of difference between the stands. We came en masse as it’s such a great show and we see it as important for everyone to come along to see the publishers and all the new product they have been developing and are on working on.”

absolutely the heart of our industry. It’s our absolute favourite show from both a publisher and retailer perspective. There’s everyone there who I love and want to talk to. We really feel looked after - the free tea and coffee, the free lunch, the drinks in the evening - all of these really make it stand out as a show. This kind of connection and community is absolutely priceless.”

PG Live, as it always has such a great atmosphere – and this year’s event felt particularly inspiring and there really seemed to be excitement in the air! It was lovely to see so many card publishers under one roof, existing suppliers, as well as discovering some new ones. We came away excited and inspired, with a very long list of highlights – the product standard was so high!”

Sam Ody, lead buying manager of everyday cards  for Tesco

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Hazel Walker, senior buyer of Waterstones

Heidi Early, co-owner of Earlybird Designs in Stoke Newington

Cardgains Celebrates Its 35th Anniversary

Over 40 Promotions Are Being Rolled Out

Buying group Cardgains, which is celebrating its 35th anniversary in 2024, recently announced several new gift supplier members as well as a roll-out of over 40 special promotions in the first half of the year, a new website and increased social media activity.

The buying group is also among the sponsors of this year’s Gift Awards, (see page 9), with the company sponsoring the Gift of the Year’s Best Home Fragrance Product or range category.

“Over the last 12 months we have introduced 25 new suppliers including gift companies such as Lily-Flame, Something Different, Letterbox Love, Blade and Rose and The Gifted Stationery Company,” confirmed managing director Penny Shaw. “Many of the promotions are exclusive to Cardgains and give

retailers the chance to trial new products and suppliers at a really keen cost.”

Current promotions include offers such as Rainbow Designs’ taster pack and three Bedtime Cuddles packs, plus new releases, seasonal packs, taster packs, gifts, stationery and specific card ranges. Companies include Boxer Gifts, Letterbox Love, Scentiment Gifts, Wax Lyrical, and Xystos.

“The roster of suppliers is growing all the time, adding value to the portfolio and a point of difference,” confirms Penny. Visit www.cardgains.co.uk.

Cardgains Charity Challenge

Cardgains is setting out to prove It’s Not Grim Up North, choosing the phrase as the title for this year’s charity challenge walk as part of the celebrations for the buying group’s 35th anniversary.

In keeping with the theme, managing director Penny Shaw is hoping to raise £35,000 for mental health charity Mind – and has suggested walkers can complete the 17½mile walk twice to reflect Cardgains’ 35th anniversary year. The buying group is now looking for industry folk from the gift and greeting card community to sign up to take part in the event in Sheffield, on Thursday, 27 June. Visit www.cardgains.co.uk

Poodle & Blonde Partners With Lisle Licensing

British luxury interiors brand Poodle & Blonde has signed with Lisle Licensing to take the business into a global licensing programme that builds on their success as a wallpaper and fabric brand, focused on the growing global homewares market, which has seen year on year record highs following the pandemic.

Lisle will now be bringing to life Poodle & Blonde’s expansion dreams across homeware and accessories, fragrance, tableware and kitchenware, luggage and bags, home, furniture and textiles.

“We wanted to create a brand that was a true reflection of our own sense of style, full of print and colour, bursting with creativity and cool,” explained Poodle & Blonde’s design duo Whinnie Williams and Kierra Campbell, who founded their business six years ago with a vision of delivering #stylishnostalgia and #futurevintage.

“We have achieved above and beyond our original expectations, and building on our flair for creating the ‘wow’ factor in interior trends, we believe now is the right time to launch bespoke licensed ranges which engage with today’s consumers and push the boundaries of conventional home furnishings.”

Clintons Acquired By Cardzone

At the beginning of March, Clintons was acquired by Pillarbox Designs, the parent company of Cardzone. The deal saw Clintons’ 163 trading stores join with Cardzone’s 180 stores.

The Cardzone group, owned by Paul Taylor – who is the new ceo of Clintons - and his son James, already trades under several brands, including gift stores Mooch. It also forged a joint venture with greeting card retailer Postmark in 2021 for future stores.

Paul confirmed the plan is to retain the Clintons brand. “The name is still synonymous with quality greeting card retailing,” he stated, adding that it is highly likely some Cardzone stores will be converted to Clintons’ branding in the future.

Licensed Treats From Mad Beauty

Mad Beauty’s new giftled Spring/Summer collection – across bath, body and beautyreveals a myriad of licensed collaborations and collections ranging from timeless best sellers to new product innovation. New offerings in the company’s 2024 range include classic Disney such as The Lion King and Snow White, as well as a spooky twist on The Nightmare Before Christmas and a denim-inspired makeover for Stitch. There will also be a tribute to Wizard of Oz’s 85th anniversary.

l Keeley Shepherd will be joining ExaClair in April as head of commercial sales. She will take over from Garry Wright, national account manager at Exacompta - Clairefontaine’s UK subsidiary, ExaClair – who is moving to pastures new on 29 March.

Keeley brings over 20 years of experience with her, which includes time spent with VOW, Office Friendly and, most recently, 3M.

Right: Keeley Shepherd.

l Nikky Wall has joined jewellery company Hot Tomato in the newly created role of national accounts manager. She brings over 25 years experience in giftware and fashion, both in the retail and wholesale sectors, including sourcing and supply.

Right: Nikky Wall.

Above: The packed Cardgains Village at Spring Fair.

Above: Clintons has been acquired by Pillarbox Designs, the parent company of Cardzone.

Above: Poodle & Blonde’s design duo Whinnie Williams and Kierra Campbell.

Below: Above: Mad Beauty’s Spring/Summer 24 collection preview. Above: Three of last year’s walkers who took part in the 2023 challenge.

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StationeryNews.net Launches

StationeryNews.net is the latest digital news platform from Max Publishing, the new owners of London Stationery Show. “With our many years of experience in B2B media in affiliated sectors (notably greeting cards, gifts and licensing), we were lucky to have the opportunity to acquire London Stationery Show, recognising that a key part of the jigsaw would be a regular dialogue with the stationery community through a dedicated e-newsletter as well as a physical publication,” commented Rob Willis, coo of Max Publishing.

industry developments, retailer insights, product features and topical discussion articles as well as coverage about the London Stationery

“We are already overflowing with ideas and can’t wait to get

deeply involved in this fascinating and fastmoving retail sector,” said Jakki Brown, cofounder of Max Publishing.

Sad Loss: Louise Young

Earlier this year, the gift industry was shocked and saddened to learn that Louise Young, a former managing director of Spring Fair and Autumn Fair, had passed away.

In tandem with StationeryNews.net, a revamped Stationery Matters magazine will be launching prior to the show which will include

John Lewis & Partnership Back In The Black

News stories should be sent to Michelle Urquhart at michelleu@max-publishing.co.uk. To find out more about advertising and sponsorship opportunities for StationeryNews.net contact Chantelle White on chantellew@maxpublishing.co.uk or +44 (0) 7795 951244. (See Stationery Matters on pages 31-33)

Following three consecutive years of losses, the John Lewis Partnership is back in profit, its first since the pandemic. The group unveiled profits of £56m for the 12 months to 27 January, highlighting that improvement had been achieved through a combination of sales growth, gross margin rate improvement and sustainable productivity improvements.

JLP will be entering “a year of significant investment” with £542m planned - over 70% up on the year - much of which will focus on modernising technology and refreshing shops. John Lewis will be improving its offer to customers to include revitalising its Home category.

Exclusively Show A Sell Out

Exhibition space at the UK’s leading housewares, gift and small domestic electricals show, Exclusively, taking place 11-12 June 2024 at London’s Business Design Centre, is 100% sold.

“The speed at which the space was snapped up, even in these fairly challenging times, shows yet again how the housewares, gift, and small domestic electricals sector has lost none of its appetite for a physical opportunity to showcase products and network face-to-face,” comments Exclusively’s chair Will Jones. Visit www.exclusivelyshows.co.uk

Autumn Fair Launches New Campaign

Autumn Fair (1-4 September, NEC), has confirmed a new campaign theme - ‘from the show floor to shop window’ - which focuses on newness and original products. There will also be a renewed focus on independent retailers, with the buying experience at the forefront.

Over 500 suppliers will be primed to deliver on smaller minimums, with the show also paying homage to British suppliers able to fulfil quick turnaround. Entry-level exhibitor packages and pavilions have also been introduced. Visit www.autumnfair.com

Julie Driscoll, who took over from Louise as Spring Fair and Autumn Fair’s managing director, and who is now executive vicepresident of Hyve Group, added: “The shows, the customers and all of us owe you a huge thank you. We mourn your loss, but we will commit to burn brightly every day for you, lovely Lou.”

Mark Shashoua, ceo of Hyve Group which owns Spring Fair and Autumn Fair, added: “Louise was a remarkable woman who I had the pleasure of working alongside for a number of years. Her inspiring leadership, the championing of UK retail and her refreshingly unique style are what made her a truly standout leader.”

Added former head of Spring Fair and Autumn Fair, David Metcalfe: “Louise was one of the good people, and the universal shock and disbelief expressed by so many people at the news of her sudden and untimely death at such a young age bears testimony to that.”

New Advisory Board

Spring & Autumn Fair’s new Advisory Board has been created to drive the continuous enhancement of the two shows, with leading names in the gift industry filling six of the 15 places.

It features leading figureheads across trade associations, long standing exhibitors and retailers. They include Sarah Ward, ceo of The Giftware Association; Stephen Illingworth, ceo of Widdop & Co; Aylish Ellwood, Enesco’s trade marketing manager; Tim Hollis, retail brand development manager at Talking Tables; Samantha Gibbs, founder and owner of three Nest gift shops, Maggie Thornton, founder and owner of gift shop Alligator Pear and Karen Wilson, co-founder of Paper Salad. The Advisory Board will be chaired by Stephen Spencer, ambience director at Stephen Spencer + Associates,

Autumn Fair takes place at the NEC from 1 – 4 September 2024 with Spring Fair returning on 2 – 5 February 2025.

Visit www.springfair.com and www.autumnfair.com

Above: Louise Young.

Right: Widdop’s ceo Stephen Illingworth (right) and Nest’s Samantha Gibbs.

Above: Busy stands at last year’s Exclusively.

Above: John Lewis & Partners returns to profit.

Above: Autumn Fair is putting focus on buyers.

Challenges Rising To The

Last year, the cost of living crisis – inflation, increased mortgage repayments, energy

The latest PG&H Retail Barometer revealed that 2023 was actually a better than expected year, up 12% on 2022. Overall, the findings reflected that 2023 was a good year for many gift indies, with their business up 12% on 2022. Some 59% of those surveyed invested in their website, with half sprucing up their shops with new units. For most independent gift retailers, although not all, the tills were ringing merrily on high last Christmas, with the average festive sales about the same as the previous year or slightly up. Across the year, star performing product sectors were home fragrancing and plush, followed by greeting cards

Looking to this year, encouragingly there is plenty of optimism, with a whopping 89% hoping to see marginal growth, significant growth or remaining on a par with last year.

How was Christmas 2023?

For most gift retailers, the main concern in the last year was that the cost of living crisis would affect how people shopped for gifts in the run up to Christmas. However, according to the findings of the Barometer, they needn’t have worried. Almost 60% of respondents said that last Christmas’ trade was better than the previous year, with over a third reporting it was about the same. Only 6% said that their sales were worse.

How did the average festive spend in 2023 compare to Christmas 2022?

There was Christmas cheer for the majority of respondents, with findings revealing that just over three quarters of respondents (76%) saw the average festive spend remain the same or increase slightly. In fact, some 12% said the spend had increased significantly.

Average Spend Up

Despite the financial challenges that consumers faced in 2023, some 41% of independent gift retailers surveyed confirmed that the average spend had increased slightly on the previous year, 12% reported that it had increased significantly and another 29% saying it was on a par.

On The Upside

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

Online website activity once again took the top spot for 60% of survey respondents (compared to 42% in 2022), sharing the No. 1 spot with product diversification

In joint second place was the positive impact that staff had made, with 57% of those surveyed citing their team as a major factor in the success of their business. Also tying in second placed was an upsurge of new customers – a jump of four places compared to 2022.

Ranking joint third was the importance of increased social media activity, sharing the No. 3 spot with local media coverage and winning an award, both cited by 50% of respondents

(Last yearÊs figures are shown in brackets)

1= Online/website activity (1)

1= Product diversification (2=)

2= Staff (2=)

2= Upsurge of new customers (6=)

3 Increased social media activity (7)

4 Winning an award/media coverage (5=)

On The Downside

What main factors had a detrimental effect on your business in 2023?

Unsurprisingly, for 80% of respondents, the cost of living crisis had the biggest detrimental effect on business, with a third highlighting competitive websites and a fifth citing supply chain disruptions, lower consumer spend and parking issues.

Environmental Issues

Did you make changes to your suppliers and/or the running of your business on the environmental front in 2023?

Finding environmentally-friendly suppliers in 2023 was a mission for 82% of those surveyed – up from 73% the previous year. In addition, over half also reduced their plastic bags, and were also more vigilant with recycling, while 45% changed their energy provider.

1= Reduction in plastic bags (53%)

1= More vigilant recycling (53%)

2 Change of energy provider (45%)

3 Reduction of gifts or cards with glitter (40%)

4= Introduction of paper bags/bags for life (33%)

4= Persuading staff to be more sustainable (33%)

Have you expanded your ranges of eco products over the past 12 months, and to what extent have environmental concerns impacted on gift sales?

Almost two thirds of those surveyed (65%) expanded their stock of eco products in 2023, with all respondents confirming that environmental concerns had impacted on gift sales, which increased slightly, remained the same or increased significantly.

Made In Britain

When purchasing a product, how important is it to you and your customers whether a product is Made in Britain/manufactured locally?

Made in Britain remains hugely important for gift independents, with a huge 89% of respondents citing it as somewhat important or very important.

Online Sales

Do you have a transactional website for your shop?

Just over 70% of those surveyed have a transactional website, with 80% of respondents planning on developing their website in 2024.

Product Matters

How did the following sectors fare in 2022?

(‘Star’ performers have been shown in bold)

You have to stay positive and pivot when the going gets tough. Never let it get you down, rise up and keep going. Be your best advocate, live your brand and be your best version of your brand.

Social Media Speaking

Is social media a vital tool in promoting your business?

With Facebook, Instagram and Tik Tok key selling platforms for gift indies, a massive 94% of respondents – compared to 75% last year – see it as vital. Facebook leads the way, (94%) followed by Instagram (88%).

Did you introduce new products in 2023?

Across the board, all Barometer respondents introduced new products last year with home fragrancing leading the field, followed by jewellery and fashion accessories, as well as bath and beauty products.

Some 94% of indies said that the number of suppliers they currently deal with would increase or remain about the same this year, with 53% of respondents stating that their online ordering would increase in 2024.

On With The Shows

Which product areas would you like to further expand/diversify into in 2024?

(The key categories are shown

Which were your ultimate ÂheroÊ products in 2023?

Topping the poll of the most popular products last year were (in alphabetical order): Jellycat (plush) and Joma Jewellery (jewellery). Other brands that ranked highly were Joe Davies and Gisela Graham

At The Source

How do you normally source products?

1 From trade shows (83%)

2 From a rep/agent (76%)

3= From trade magazines (59%)

3= Looking in other shops (59%)

4 From the internet (53%)

5 From catalogues (47%)

6 Word of mouth (35%)

7 From an exhibitor’s website (29%)

8 From internet platforms (e.g. Trouva) (29%)

8 From a supplier’s showroom event (24%)

Do you have plans to open another shop in the coming year?

Almost all - 94% - of gift shops have, or are planning, to trade shows this year

Spring Fair and Autumn Fair ‘must visits’ for most, along with Home & Gift in Harrogate, Top Drawer Spring, Top Drawer Autumn and PG Live.

Flying The Flag

Did you run promotions and/or advertising for your shop last year?

Very much in line with last year’s findings, 94% of respondents confirmed that they had run promotions for their shops. 1

As an independent retailer, what are your biggest concerns in 2024?

Connecting With The Community

Which local organisations were you involved with in 2023?

1 Town centre retailing groups

2 Local charities

3 The Giftware Association (GA)

4= Federation of Small Businesses

4= Chamber of Commerce

4= Local schools

4= Greeting Card Association (GCA)

5 Just A Card campaign

Supermarket Challenge

How do you view supermarkets continuing expansion on the home and gift front?

As the major supermarkets continue to expand their gift and home offer, over three quarters of respondents (77%) still see them as a threat or serious threat, more or less on a par with last year.

Garden Centre Growth

How do you view garden centre growth in the gift and home sector?

With garden centres rapidly becoming mini department stores, with a focus on gifts, home and clothing, it’s not surprising that some 59% of those surveyed view them as a threat or serious threat

How do you view the future of independent gift shops in the next 1-3 years?

‘‘

I would love to see demonstrations and workshops at Spring Fair and Autumn Fair ranging from diverse subjects such as window dressing to accounting, social

How do you view third party online operators in the gift and home sector (eg Amazon)?

Third Party Selling

How do you view third party online operators in the gift and home sector? (Eg Amazon).

As ‘shop local’ continues to encourage people to visit their high streets, those surveyed saw third party selling as less of a threat, down from 63% in 2022 to 59% this year.

Selling Direct To Consumers

How do you view gift and home suppliers selling online direct to the public?

Over three quarters of respondents (77%) regard gift companies selling direct to consumers as an ongoing threat or serious threat, up 2% on last year

A Look At 2024 Cause For Concern

As an independent retailer, what are your biggest concerns in 2024?

Price increases were cited as the biggest concern for 59% of gift independents, followed by customers reducing their spend, and business rates going up

Other concerns included increases in the minimum wage, customers buying more competitively online, and bad weather impacting on footfall.

What investments have you made in your shop over the last year?

What are your expectations for your business in 2024?

The good news is that there is plenty of optimism, with a massive 89% hoping to see marginal growth, business remaining the same or significant growth.

Almost two thirds of those surveyed (64%) said that they were positive or very positive about the future of independents over the next one to three years, with 12% saying they were looking to open another shop this year.

More than a third of respondents (35%) added that they will be giving their shops a makeover in some way, to include new units, refits, new signage and a coat of paint.

A Word In Your Ear

How would you describe the gift industry today?

‘Challenging’ the most chosen word to describe the gift industry, alongside ‘volatile’ and ‘changing’. Positive words included ‘exciting’, ‘interesting’ and ‘vibrant’.

Do you intend to make any improvements to your shop in the coming year? (e.g. shop refit, better signage etc)

Fun Stuff

How do you view the supermarkets’ continuing expansion on the gift and home front?

Who would you most like to receive a gift from?

(Celebrity, politician, dignitary, fictional character etc., either dead or alive)

A myriad of diverse names were put forward, to include The King, Theo Paphitis (right) and Jurgen Klopp to Tina Turner and Sarah Jessica Parker!

The government have not really supported small businesses. The minimum wage and no tax breaks have all compounded the issues.

Which famous person would you most like to walk into your shop?

Females welcomed with open arms would be Mary Portas, Holly Tucker, Sara Davies and Mary Berry (see below), with men including Steven Bartlett, Alan Titchmarsh and Harry Styles (left).

Which famous person would you least like to walk into our shop?

Men shown the door would be Boris Johnson, Jeremy Corbyn and Prince Harry, with the closed sign also going up for Liz Truss, Janet Street Porter and Meghan Markle

Finalists 2024 THE GREATS

Independent Gift Retailer of The Year - London, South, South East & East Anglia

l Bill & Berts, Colchester

l Bringing The Outside In, and Nomad & The Bowerbird, Wells-next-the-Sea

l Bumbles, Ashtead

l Little Boat Gifts, Brightlingsea

l MiMi, Hartley Wintney and Wokingham

l Objectables, Folkestone

Independent Gift Retailer of The Year - Midlands & Wales

l The Celtic Company, Welshpool

l Copper Fox, Ironbridge

l Country Clutter, Chepstow

l Hugs & Kisses, Tettenhall

l In Heaven At Home, Market Harborough

l Nest, Stoughton Grange, Stoneygate, Thurlaston Garden Centre

Independent Gift Retailer of The Year – North & Northern Ireland

l Acanthus, Corbridge

l Artichoke, Tynemouth

l Doodle & Boom, Bangor

l Niche, Barnard Castle

l Plush Home & Giftware, Cleveleys

l Presentation, Barrowford

Independent Gift Retailer of The Year - West & South West

l Attico, Westborne

l Cilla & Camilla, Beaminster and Bridport

l Daisy Park, South Molton

l Figgins, Frome

l Highworth Emporium, Highworth

l Prior, Bristol

Independent Gift Retailer of The Year – Scotland

l Ewe & Me and Ewe Too, Grantown on Spey

l Maia Gifts, Glasgow

l Old School Beauly, Beauly

l Paper Tiger, Edinburgh

l Wild Grace, Uddingston

Best Newcomer Gift Retailer

l Blossom Barn, Shrivenham

l The Cotswold Snug, Moreton in the Marsh

l Hummingbird Gifts & Homewares, Sidmouth

l Just Lily, Cornwall

l Orange Blossom Home & Gift, Pollokshields

l Rock Paper Scissors, Canterbury

l Seasgair, Elgin

Best Specialist Multiple Retailer Of Gifts

l Between The Lines, Essex, Surrey, Sussex (18 stores)

l Henry & Co, Midlands and the North (9 stores)

l Lark London, S and W London, Surrey (19 stores)

l Mooch London (4 stores) (South West and West London)

l Oliver Bonas (80 + stores nationwide)

l Utility, Liverpool and Manchester (4 stores)

Best Department Store Retailer Of Gifts

l Elphicks, Farnham

l Fenwick, Newcastle

l Jarrolds, Norwich

l John Lewis & Partners

l Liberty, London

l Morleys Group

Best Non-Specialist Retailer Of Gifts

l Cherry Soda, Ayr

l Doddington At Home, Doddington

l The Hollies Farm Shop/The Barn, Little Budworth

l Mursley Farm Shop, Mursley

l National Gallery Gift Shops, London

l The Voewood, Blackheath Standard

Best Garden Centre Retailer Of Gifts

l Bernaville Nurseries, Cowley

l Blue Diamond Group (44 garden centres)

l Burford Garden Centre, Burford

l Garsons, Esher and Titchfield

l Haskins, South of England

l RHS (4 garden centres)

Best In Store/Window Display

l Cornucopia, Worcester

l Etcetera, Hitchin

l Nomad & The Bowerbird, Wells-next-the-Sea

l House of Cards (7 shops in the Home Counties)

l Lovely Libby’s, Rayleigh

l Mooch, Bewdley and Stourport on Severn

Best Retailer Initiative

l Brocante (7 stores in Devon and Cornwall)

For its Christmas choir initiative, Charleston store

l House of Cards (7 stores in the Home Counties)

For its painting by numbers staff initiative

l Maybugs, Bexhill-on-Sea, Eastbourne, Hailsham

For its artisan market initiative

l Joco, Nuneaton

For its VIP Members Group initiative

l The Voewood, Blackheath Standard

For its local magazine

l Serendipity House, Kirkham

For Its ‘H & Em’ live events

Outstanding Achievement Award 2024

No finalists are revealed for this special award.

Inset: The PG&H team can’t wait to welcome the 2024 Greats finalists to this year’s glittering ceremony on 16 May.

Sar Ward IN CONVERSATION WITH...

Spring Show

At the beginning of the year, The Giftware Association’s ceo Sarah Ward did a whistlestop, whirlwind tour of nine gift shows across the UK and Europe.

While most retailers in the gift industry visit the key January and February shows – notably Top Drawer and Spring Fair – in my role as ceo of The Giftware Association, I always like to spread my net much wider, taking in the regional shows too, as well as one or two gift shows in Europe. I do it to gain knowledge and insights that I can then share with GA members, and, to engage with our member and non-member exhibitors – especially newcomers showcasing their products for the first time. It’s also a good opportunity to meet up with show organisers.

1. Trendset, Munich

Trendset was my first show of 2024, and what stood out were the artisan German brands that wouldn’t have looked out of place at a UK trade show. Along the walkways there were glass cabinets filled with product, immersing visitors in the show before they got into the halls.

2. Giving & Living, Exeter

A personal highlight was the GA Women in Gifts panel, where I made my debut as a facilitator. The event attracted a packed auditorium with lots of follow-up from delegates.

4. Harrogate Christmas & Gift, Harrogate

This warm, welcoming, twinkling festive exhibition is very much a grown-up order writing show and important for companies wanting to unveil their Christmas launches. Stands such as Gisela Graham and Heaven Sends seemed to be busy every second of the day.

The quality of products overall was exceptional.

7. Showcase Ireland, Dublin

Held in a beautiful building in a lovely part of Dublin, the branding for a regional show was the strongest I have seen yet. Impressively, one complete hall was given over to newbies, and it was a joy to see people so delighted to tell me about their business.

8. South Wales Show, Pontyclun

Organised by two agents, the show took place in a new venue, the Miskin Manor Hotel, with some 30 exhibitors showcasing predominantly Welsh/Celtic brands. Next year, I look forward to getting involved in collaborations with both exhibitors – new and established – as well as the show organisers.

My main objective at Giving & Living – and at Scotland’s Trade Fair too (see below)was to support the companies navigating their first trade show. I see huge value in that. We also had a small Gift of the Year stand, which was incredibly successful, attracting masses of attention from visitors.

3. Top Drawer, London

Once again, I was delighted that our Gift of the Year shortlist board helped to drive business and footfall to the stands of so many of the companies exhibiting at the show.

5. Maison & Objet, Paris

You can’t fail to be ‘wowed’ by Maison & Objet! As you step off the train the experience begins, with everything bigger, better, and bolder. Known for identifying trends, it also clearly fanfared its newcomer area this year with some excellent signage.

6. Scotland’s Trade Fair Spring, Glasgow

Hotfoot from Paris I flew to Glasgow to help judge the Best Product Awards, which the GA sponsors. It was good to see many of our members, to include Meg Hawkins – who had her best show ever there – as well as the small, independent brands in Launchpad.

9. Spring Fair, Birmingham

There were many highlights at this show, but for the GA, it represented a massive leap forward for the Gift of the Year shortlisted products to be judged in full view of visitors, with everyone able to walk around the stands and see the products. It certainly helped to drive footfall to companies’ stands throughout the show, hopefully leading to business and the opening of new accounts.

I was also delighted to welcome over 70 people to the GA’s networking dinner, held in a non-formal setting at the Metropole. There was a business purpose attached to it, but also a social aspect, making it a very convivial and lively event!

Going forward, I will be taking on board everything I learned from my Spring show safari and look forward to building on that knowledge as we move onto other shows this year and into 2025.”

Below: Cheers! Sarah (centre) with GA chair Louise Welsby (left) and GA member Tabi Marsh, at the GA dinner during Spring Fair.

Putting Pen

To Paper

With new owners – Max Publishing – at the helm, it’s been full steam ahead for this year’s London Stationery Show –the dedicated exhibition for stationery lovers and buyerswhich takes place from the 14-15 May at the Business Design Centre in London’s Islington. Plus, with National Stationery Week (13-19 May) once again propelling stationery into the spotlight, gift retailers are sure to be among the visitors eager to spot the current designs and new launches for Spring/Summer.

Who doesn’t love taking out a smart notebook – and penwhen socialising with friends, or at a meeting? Or maybe just when sitting quietly – perhaps when travelling - to jot down thoughts and feelings or things to do.

Despite living in a world where smart phones and tablets rule – acting as an address book,

phone book, diary, calendar and journal, plus much else besides - technology – and perhaps the pandemic too - has, if anything, reinforced a love of trend driven, tactile social stationery that stylishly says something about the user.

Historically, women have always loved to purchase stationery, either for themselves or

as a unisex gift, seeing it as a means of making a statement about who they are. Plus, as new trends drive the market, a new notebook is an inexpensive way to merge fashion and function, with Gen Z and millennials said to be leading the field when it comes to old school putting pen to paper.

Back On Board

London Stationery Show’s original founder, Chris Leonard-Morgan, (who sold the show to Ocean Media eight years ago), is back on board, joining as a special advisor. He is now working alongside the show’s event manager, Chantelle White, and the Max Publishing directors, following their recent acquisition of the show, Stationery Matters and NSW from the Ocean Media Group at the end of 2023.

Chris is infectiously passionate about all things stationery, underlined by his becoming a liveryman of the 621-year-old Worshipful Company of Stationers & Newspaper Makers. “I’m delighted to be in the thick of it again - so much better than watching from the sidelines!”

Chris enthused.

Inset: Among the journals at last year’s show. Below: London Stationery Show takes place at the Business Design Centre from 14-15 May. Below left: Chris Leonard-Morgan, the original founder of the London Stationery Show, is back on board.

During the pandemic, people of all ages turned to writing their thoughts down in wellness and mindfulness journals in order to help them get through a difficult time, with the analogue stationery habit continuing, and stationery sales on the up say retailers.

As for the feelgood factor, motivational or humorous sayings on the covers of journals, diaries or notebooks, help to make products very gift-led. As for pens, those in smart, gift box packaging, that hit the right price points, remain strong gift options, suitable for all gifting occasions, from milestone birthdays, special anniversaries, Valentine’s, Mother’s Day and Father’s Day to graduation, Christmas and retirement.

National Stationery Week

The London Stationery Show will once again be taking place in the middle of National Stationery Week, which runs from Monday to Sunday, 13-19 May. For the second year in succession, indie retailer Sarah Laker, owner of Stationery Supplies in Marple and Wilmslow is heading up NSW 2024. Already leading brands have pledged their support as sponsors for the week-long event which will spread the love at both retail and consumer levels about all things stationery.

Ohh Deer, Maped Helix, Pentel, Staedtler and Zebra Pen are on board as headline sponsors for NSW, each sponsoring a day, while Silvine has signed up as sponsor of the #Shelfie competition to kickstart the build-up, and also joins The Art File, ExaClair, Lamy, Manuscript and The Pilot Pen Company as a countdown week sponsor.

The bottom line is that stationery matters, and as the ultimate destination for arts, crafts, writing and paper buyers, the London

Stationery Show will see a roster of leading and entrepreneurial companies and designers showcasing their newest launches at the Business Design Centre in London’s Islington, from 14-15 May. At the time of going to press at the end of March, the strong roster of established and newbie brands include Crayola, Leuchtturm1917, Blueprint Stationery,

Stone Marketing, ExaClair, Daler Rowney, Royal Talens, Manuscript Brands, Jakar International, Studio Pens, Pentel, Snopake, Staedtler, IG Design Group, Sinclairs, Stabilo, Pukka Pads, Edding, Hahnemuehle, Ultratape, The Pilot Pen Co, Zebra Pen, Nu:notebooks, Tallon International and many more. The event will also be fan faring the winners of the 2024 Stationery Awards.

“As a lifelong stationery fan, it is a dream come true to now be a part of this exciting sector’s evolution through London Stationery Show, Stationery Matters magazine, National Stationery Week, Stationery Awards and our new StationeryNews.net newsletter,” commented Jakki Brown, co-owner of Max Publishing. “The term ‘stationery’ dates back to the Middle Ages, but the product innovation from well-loved brands as well as newer players that will be showcased at LSS continues this rich legacy with great aplomb.”

London Stationery Show: Show Essentials

WHERE:Business Design Centre, London

WHEN: 14-15 May, 2024

REGISTER:www.stationeryshowlondon.co.uk

Inset: An array of colourful pens.

Inset: Max Publishing is the new owner of the London Stationery Show. Pictured at London’s Business Design Centre are the company’s directors, from left to right: Warren Lomax, Rob Willis, Jakki Brown and Ian Hyder along with show event manager Chantelle White (centre).

Mother’s Day 2024 - complete! While this year’s early Mother’s Day may have cut short the build-up to the occasion itself (as well as adding an extra dose of pressure!), we were pleased to say that we had our busiest one in our five years of trading.

The Saturday before the big day took us by storm – it honestly felt like we were back in December and just a few days away from Christmas! Given how early the occasion was, it seemed to sneak up on just about everyone, as every customer who walked through the door chaotically rushed to buy a gift for their loved one.

In fact, we saw an increase in the average spend on Mother’s Day gift buying to around the £40 mark. This may have been the result of last minute frantic impulse buys that we usually see right before Christmas, but it’s also interesting to note that we saw a shift in the type of gifts customers were leaning towards. In previous years, sentiment gifts with ‘Mum’ on them had ruled the roost as the most popular Mother’s Day presents, but this year we saw a shift towards more generalised gifting. The best-selling items seemed to be candles, clothes and bags –products that we stock in the shop all year round.

Libbys Lines ’

“ For Libby Holden, owner of Lovely Libby’s in Rayleigh, Mother’s Day was a busy one with sales – and the average spend – up, making it the best one yet.

seems to be a little gap in the market here! Something we did to relieve the load on Mother’s Day Saturday was to pre-wrap a variety of different gifts at varying prices in cellophane. Complete with a Lovely Libby’s bow, we placed these on a display right at the front of the shop for people to literally grab and go. They were a huge hit among everyone from children popping in after school, to dads rushing in the day before with their children in tow. It definitely made the gift buying experience smoother and easier, while the benefit of free giftwrap meant there was one less thing for the customer to have to think about. They could literally just hand the gift over.

This change in spending habits may be a result of customers choosing to buy smarter within the current economic climate. It is almost as though they were making conscious decisions to buy into investment pieces, such as our Alice Wheeler bags, that would be economical in cost per wear and effectively ‘worth the money’, as opposed to smaller token items branded with “Mum” that might ultimately become dust collectors.

The only exception on this front was people looking for gifts from younger children with ‘Mummy’ on, something we took on board from last year’s Mother’s Day sales and bought more into for 2024. Going forward to next year, we had several requests for ‘first’ Mother’s Day gifts. While we stock first Mother’s Day cards, gifts tailored to this is something I have never seen before (or at least, never looked out for!), so we will definitely be on the hunt for gifting along these lines for next year. There

As per the previous two years, we also offered our Mother’s Day gift boxes on our website. Customers could simply log on, choose any gifts from our collection and curate their own bespoke Mother’s Day gift for their loved one, safe in the knowledge that everything would arrive in a branded Lovely Libby’s box, with each item wrapped individually, and with a personalised gift note included. We heavily promoted these on our social media, running adverts on different platforms, and were extremely pleased with the results. We had new customers from all over the country ordering boxes, and even had a couple of orders from people for nonMother’s Day gifts. Since the boxes are only branded with the Lovely Libby’s logo, some customers were going online to create personalised gifts for all kinds of different occasions. For example, one lady put together a ‘Thinking of You’ box for a friend who was recovering from an operation. She put in an array of different items –from a pair of our bamboo socks, to one of our hand painted drinks tumblers by Lynsey Johnstone, and it’s really got us thinking about how we could potentially make this incentive an all year round option for all sorts of occasions… so time to get our thinking caps on!”

dA MARVELLOUS MOTHER’S DAY

Below: Boxing clever!

Lovely Libby’s Mother’s Day gift boxes were very popular with customers.

As she celebrated countless milestones during her 70 year reign, the late Queen never missed an opportunity to be photographed surrounded by piles of heartfelt greeting cards from wellwishers, not just in the UK but around the world. It therefore, it came as no surprise that the King was equally touched by the thousands of get well cards he received recently.

In February, the front page image of him chuckling at a card from Pigment - showing a dog wearing a cone, and featuring a jokey caption - reinforced the important role greeting cards play throughout people’s

lives, and for retailers, the importance people place on sending them to their nearest and dearest whenever the occasion arises.

It's surely why this year’s Retail Barometer, as with previous years, revealed that greeting cards are a mainstay for most gift retailers, a core product that they couldn’t do without.

Lunch Is On Us!

A highlight for both visitors and exhibitors on each day of the show is the delicious, specially prepared two course lunch, hot or cold, which is available in the Gallery Hall, (first floor), with free teas and coffees available for everyone on both days.

Look Out For...

l The Village Green (ground floor): home to a mix of exhibitors and emerging brands.

l The Mezzanine: established brands and trade suppliers

l Upper Village (Gallery level), a vibrant area for emerging companies and includes Springboard, home to brand new talent.

(See the findings of this year’s PG&H Retail Barometer on pages 19-27, where they were a star performer for 71% of respondents). For anyone who sells greeting cards, dedicated greeting cards show PG Live is therefore non-negotiable - a ‘must attend’ date on the calendar, a vital event that not only reveals the newest launches from well-established names, but also introduces them to exciting new talent – the start-up, newbie publishers which have taken a stand at the show and gone on to the become the big names of the future – think Wrendale, Paper Salad and Sara Miller London.

“PG Live is a show not to be missed and is sure to be buzzing, with a great atmosphere,” enthuses Andrea Pinder, owner

Inset: Jumping for joy at last year’s PG Live.

Inset: Busy aisles at the show in 2023.

Right: Catching up at last year’s show were, from left to right: Jo Barber, owner of No. 14 Ampthill, PG&H’s Sue Marks, and PG Live’s Jakki Brown.

Barrowford every year. “As always, I will be approaching the show with a positive, excited mindset, with my busy bee wings taking me to every corner of the Business Design Centre where I will be concentrating on everyday design-led cards with added gifts in mind. Christmas 2024 and Spring orders for 2025 will be very much on my list,” adds Andrea.

ÂGreatsÊ Drinks Reception

All current and previous Greats winners and finalists are once again invited to enjoy a glass of fizz at the Wall of Fame drinks reception that will be taking place at the Business Design Centre’s Gallery area on the first floor at 12.45pm on both days of the show.

“It’s a marvellous opportunity for gift retailers to meet up and socialise, as well as to swap new and exciting ‘finds’ at the show,” comments

Sue Marks, editor of Progressive Gifts & Home and GiftsandHome.net

ItÊs Party Time!

Everyone is invited to the opening night party on Tuesday 4 June that will see the great and the good in the card industry – exhibitors, retailers and trade suppliers – clinking glasses and enjoying a fabulous networking opportunity at the end of the first day. It’s free to attend, with corks popping from 6pm.

Further South, Aga Marsden, owner of Highworth Emporium in Highworth, says that PG Live is, without doubt, her favourite show. “It’s a perfect size show for focusing on the most important category in our shopgreeting cards. I’m always searching for new humour and anything that stands out.

£50 Golden Ticket

Although the show is busy it’s very relaxing at the same time. It also gives me an opportunity to catch up with other retailers to exchange notes, usually while enjoying a delicious lunch.”

Among the earlybirds at the show last year were the Oliver Bonas team, to include founder and managing director Oliver Tress, and head of home and gift buying Kate Salmon. “The show’s got a great atmosphere, with lots of newness,” commented Kate. “For Oliver Bonas, cards are very much a part of the brand,” she stated.

As always, the roll call of the 200 exhibitors for PG

Live 2024 features a host of great names which include The Art File, Five Dollar Shake, Belly Button Designs, Eleanor Bowman, Cath Tate Cards, Oh Dear, Brainbox Candy, Wendy Jones-

As an extra 'gift', all independent finalists and winners of The Greats 2024 will receive a £50 golden voucher that can be spent against orders placed at the show.

Blackett and many, many more.

The wealth of greeting cards on offer will again cover every genre - from male and humour to cute cards and children’s cards, along with the latest take on popular culture. A major focus will, of course, be sustainable, eco-friendly cards that are kind to the planet.

As Warren Lomax, Max Publishing’s chairman and co-show director of PG Live commented: “After a great Christmas and positive Valentine’s Day, there’s no denying that the love for greeting cards is strong, and PG Live is all set to keep up that positive tempo with some 200 fabulous exhibitorsranging from well-loved companies to brand new start-ups - planning to unveil thousands of new designs and products to excite and inspire retailers, overseas distributors and licensees alike.”

Inset: A warm welcome awaits from the popular ‘cardies’. Bottom: Smiling Greats and Retas winners and finalists are shown raising a glass of bubbly at PG Live’s Wall of Fame last year.

Below right: Caroline Ranwell (right), owner of Hugs & Kisses in Tettenhall, spent her £50 Golden Ticket with Jo O’Brien, co-owner of Paper Shed, last year.

Gifts With Men

With Father’s Day on the horizon, (Sunday 16 June), gift retailers are sure to be keeping a keen eye out for men’s traditional, with hobbies and

PG&H takes a look at what’s new this season, as well as how ing into new product areas.

Mboxed genuine leather bracelets and necklaces, beaded natural quartz bracelets and copper bracelets.”

en’s gifts have tended to place both gift buyers and retail buyers in a bit of a quandary over the years, with both sides wanting to find that ‘something different’. The good news is that, for lateral thinkers, there are plenty of trend driven ideas around that are taking men’s gifting in different directions.

Jewellery for example, is becoming a bigger gifting sector for men, with bracelets to the fore, and pearl necklaces for men very on point, highlighted by TV celebrities and influencers. “More daring jewellery trends are emerging for men as they experiment with the boundaries of what is considered masculine and fashionable,” concurs Joe Davies’ buyer Mary Caputo. “Our Equilibrium from Joe Davies jewellery collection for men offers jewellery for all ages and tastes, to include branded gift

Also highlighting giftable men’s bracelets is Midhaven’s owner Alison Hargreaves: “Tribal steel men’s leather and steel jewellery continue to be our strongest growth area, with lots of interest in colour and bold design that demonstrate individuality.”

For men who prefer gifts with a twist of fun, Gift Republic reports a rise in both practical and personal hobby/interest-related gifts. “Our Ecologie, Scratch Off and Grow It ranges are useful, fun, personal gifts,” says the company’s head of creative Pritesh Amin. “Our Ecologie mugs for dad/grandad are ideal for that hobby-oriented personality, Grow It for the green-fingered father figurewhere both adult and children can enjoy growing wacky veg to a bonsai tree - while Scratch it is great for getting days booked for either visiting football stadiums or ticking off listening to some of the most iconic music albums together.”

Also highlighting practical gifs for men is Boxer Gifts’ managing director, Thomas O’Brien, who points to a growing demand for those with a

seasonal spin. “With this in mind, we have released our BBQ Eats recipe cards that feature over 50 recipes, tips and tricks to help men become the King of the grill. It’s a gift that shows purpose and can be used

Above: Mad Beauty’s Star Wars The Mandalorian Bounty Hunter wash bag set for men on the go.

Above: Gift Republic’s Things To Do With Dad.

time and time again to perhaps open up a new – and delicious – passion,” adds Thomas. Lesser & Pavey men’s gift range includes fine china gift boxed mugs that tie in with hobbies and passions. Mugs feature photographic images across historic cars, planes, motorbikes and trains, with coasters, keyrings, notebooks, gift bags and diaries also part of the collection.

At PMC, marketing director Keren Dicken says that the company has seen a rise in the demand for men’s gifts that are fun and heartfelt too, with their new personalised ‘world’s best’ gold mug ticking all the boxes. Says Keren: “Special message mugs can easily be adapted for any occasion, to include Father’s Day.”

Of course, licensed giftware al makes a popular men’s gift. At Widdop & Co, head of marketing and content, Catherine Paul, says that the company’s research into consumer trends indicates a growing desire for more subtle and sophisticated men's gifting.

For men who pride themselves on their appearance, the good news is that the sector is continuing to go from strength to strength. “The world of male grooming is growing, blending grooming routines with the pursuit of overall wellness and feeling good inside and out,” says Mad Beauty’s creative director Julia Cash.

According to Julia, sales are largely being driven by the influence of male celebrities who are jumping on board with skincare and beauty brands. “Their endorsements are inspiring more men to dip their toes into the world of beauty products, encouraging them to try new things and expand their grooming horizons. It's about breaking down old barriers and embracing a more inclusive approach to self-care.”

As for gifts for more mature men, walking stick specialist Classic Canes points to an increasing interest in hearty natural materials such as horn and native British woods. Comments managing director Charlotte Gillan: “Our hiking staffs, thumbsticks and other natural sticks have always been an

Socks That Rock

“Our latest Batman offering reflects how our designers have achieved the delicate balance between a licensed product resonating with the brand story, while conveying a sense of aspiration. The collection includes iconic collector pieces that will pack a punch when displayed, through to a stylish weekender bag.”

the next generation.”

Men’s socks, once seen as utilitarian, continue to trend. “Today it’s about showing your socks off, with our bamboo Equilibrium by Joe Davies bold, funky patterned socks including male hobbies and interests,” highlights the company’s buyer Mary Caputo.

With such an eclectic range of products that have men’s diverse lifestyles at their heart, there's clearly no longer any excuse for retailers, or gift givers, to see men as impossible to buy for.

Inset: A trio of tribal steel bracelets from Midhaven.

Inset: BBQ Eats from Boxer Gifts. Below: Equilibrium from Joe Davies colourful socks.

Inset: Themed mugs from Lesser & Pavey.

Inset: Batman giftware from Widdop & Co.

Left: Personalised World’s Best Gold Mug from PMC.

Inset: Natural materials are trending at Classic Canes.

RRP £12.00 - £30.00

RRP £8.00 - £35.00. 925 silver. Available in blue or white

Free Tribal Point of Sale with £250 spend www.midhaven.co.uk Tel: 01299 851513 info@midhaven.co.uk

1: Vintage with Vroom

JJ Vaillant already stocks what it believes is probably the largest range of painted Vintage Transport Models in the UK, specialising in the larger sized versions. New for June will be 10 Bare Metal models with copper highlights. Made from steel - with feature welded joints and lots of detail. This hot rod could take the price of place in the man cave.

JJ Vaillant

T: 0121 667 3629

E: info@jjvaillant.co.uk

W: www.jjvaillant.co.uk

2: Fabulous Jewellery Ranges for Men

Quality stainless steel chains and matching bracelets in hard wearing gold ion plating. From statement chains to a simple curb, the chains are available in various lengths from 18” to 26”. Tribal Steel by Midhaven is your go to brand for quality gift ideas for men. Over 200 patterns, multiple colours and sizes in leather and stainless steel bracelets and pendants. Point of sale is available on orders over £250.

Midhaven

T: 01299 851513

E: info@midhaven.co.uk

W: www.midhaven.co.uk

3: The ‘Slim-plest’ solution for on the go reading

Discover Opticaid’s super slim reading glasses and case weighing a featherlight 26 grams. The Eyeslides innovative case is equipped with a clever side button that slides the glasses out in one smooth motion, but secures the glasses firmly inside the case even when held upside down. Ideal glasses for popping in your pocket, jacket or bag. Available in three colours and five reading strengths. Supplied with a 3M adhesive sticker to attach to your phone case. RRP £18. A retail counter stand is available.

Opticaid

T: 0113 239 1400

E: sales@opticaid.net

W: www.opticaid.net

4: A Perfect Gift for Father’s Day

Are they always losing their precious odds and ends? Then this stylish personalised bits and bobs metal tin is the ideal gift. With a snug fitting lid, it makes the perfect home for keeping those all important pieces safe. Personalise with your own message to create a wonderful gift for any occasion, including Father’s Day. Visit PMC’s trade website to find out how to add drop ship personalised gifts to your range.

PMC

E: sales@personalisedmemento.co.uk

W: www.personalisedmemento.co.uk

5: Gifts To Treasure

Father’s Day is a day when the relevant father figure is celebrated and apparently originated in the United States in 1910. Lesser & Pavey is targeting this market with a range of practical, as well as attractive quality fine china mugs, celebrating hobbies and passions with photographic images of historic cars, planes, motorbikes, trains and more. Each one is a decorative gift box to enhance the gift. The range extends further with matching coasters, key rings, notebooks, gift bags and diaries.

Lesser & Pavey

T: 01322 279225

E: sales@leonardo.co.uk

W: www.leonardo.co.uk

6: ‘Lovely Dad’

Released in time for Fathers Day, ‘Lovely Dad’ is the perfect title for a kind and caring gift. Launching this spring, the ‘You’re Lovely’ collection of 20-minute relaxation candle gift sets are titled with all relations, male and female, with mix and match patterns. The box contains 12 20minute candles and a ceramic holder. See all the designs across Cotton & Grey’s collections at www.cottonandgrey.com/brochure.pdf.

Cotton & Grey

T: Claire on 07876763774

E: info@cottonandgrey.com

W: www.cottonandgrey.com

New What s

Progressive Gifts & Home highlights some of the latest gift products and ranges for Men’s Gifts and Father’s Day

Earlier this year, fourth generation family company Joe Davies became a 100% employee-owned business, making it, arguably, one of the first companies in the gift industry to protect the livelihoods of its staff going forward via Employee Ownership.

But that’s not all. With a strong financial base to build on, and a myriad of new launches for Spring/Summer, ceo Steve Davies, and managing director Paul Hooker, spoke to PG&H about what will be continuing to propel the company forward this year.

It was an emotional day at Joe Davies when ceo Steve Davies, his dad Peter, and managing director Paul Hooker gathered the staff together before Christmas to give them the good news that the business was transitioning from a family company to employee ownership. The business was founded by Steve’s great grandfather Joe in 1919 and on 31 January 2024, ownership transferred to the Joe Davies Employee Ownership Trust (EOT) which is set up for the benefit of the employees.

“We had been working on the EOT for years, and we’d practiced our speeches before speaking to our staff, but when it finally happened, it was very hard for us all to hold it together,” admitted Steve. The existing management team remains in

place, headed up by Steve, who is proud that the transition of the company to a 100% employee-owned business will see Joe Davies being run, and owned, by the people that make Joe Davies what it is.

“I’m not retiring any time soon, and my dad Peter is still very much involved with Joe Davies, but there is no fifth generation of family coming through to continue the family tradition. For Peter and I, the priority was to secure the continuity of Joe Davies, protect staff livelihoods, continue taking care of our customers and to carry on grandpa Joe’s legacy. The EOT is the perfect way to do this.” Adds Steve: “Joe Davies can now continue in its own special way and we can serve our lovely customers for many years to come. While employee ownership is not new, it is one of the fastest growing ownership models in the UK.”

FACE TO FACE: JOE DAVIES

Inset: Steve Davies, (back row, third on the right) and Paul Hooker, (centre) with the Joe Davies team at Autumn Fair. The company has become a 100% employee-owned business.

Inset: Joe Davies’ company directors (left to right) Paul Whitfield, David Cree, Paul Hooker (md), Steve Davies (ceo), Linzi Watts and Mary Caputo. Left: New additions to Joe Davies’ Shudehill Village Pottery Collection: Village Shops.

there is no change in the way we operate or shift in our values.”

So now that the EOT has come into effect, what will be driving business for the company this year? “We had a great Spring Fair,” enthuses Paul. “The show was very busy, very buzzy, just like the old days,” concurred Steve. “Most gift retailers had had a very good Christmas, so they were keen to find new products. We introduced over 3,000 brand new gifts on the stand, as well as some great new items from our distributorships –Equilibrium, EastWest, snoozies!, Xpressions and, of course, all the great new lines from Lesser & Pavey. Our latest distributorship, Read My Lips balms, was a particular hit.”

range for us, our retailers can’t get enough of it,” states Paul. “In fact, we even get consumers ringing us directly to ask us if they can buy a specific piece, which demonstrates how collectable the range is.”

them. Plus, we’re seeing more people than ever opening new bricks and mortar stores which is great news. This is borne out by the number of new accounts we’ve opened recently.”

Other favourites in the new ranges include EastWest’s beautiful hand-painted glasses from Jennifer McAteer as well as occasion glassware from Rush Design and colourful new bags and mugs from artist Penny Gaj. Joe Davies’ own brand, Shudehill Giftware, continues to go from strength to strength. New Spring/Summer launches include additions to the brand’s hugely successful Village Pottery collection. “It’s a fantastic

As for trends, Paul says that one of the biggest is mushrooms, with Joe Davies having the trend well covered with products that include mushroom-shaped lamps, cottages, houses and birdhouses. Sentiment gifts are also continuing to trend, with Paul highlighting new additions to Joe Davies’ Heartfelt Art range, as well as robin designs which are set to be a big trend for Christmas 2024. “Key for us is having a big spread of products at the right price, which customers can order little and often, making it risk free,” says Paul. “We have plenty of stock in our warehouse, and can deliver the next day, all of which helps our retailers to trial products and to re-stock the winners. We make it easy for our customers to do business with us, and the ones who do best are those who try out the new ranges.”

As the cost-of-living crisis continues to bite – official figures have revealed that the UK fell into recession in 2023 –Paul emphasises that people are still buying gifts, but they are inevitably, looking for value for money. “Retailers also tell us that they are seeing a lot of younger consumers shopping in their stores, a spin off from the pandemic when people of all ages realised how much their local shops meant to

As for challenges in 2024, Steve explains: “The last few years have shown us we can cope with anything, and the EOT only makes us stronger as a company. This year sees the uncertainty of the General Election, as well as the ongoing Red Sea shipping crisis, but no matter what, we will take everything in our stride as will our ever-resourceful customers.” Despite everything suppliers and retailers will face this year, Paul points out: “Day to day the EOT will ensure that there is no change in the way we operate or shift in our values. We see a very bright long-term future ahead of us that will benefit all our staff and customers for many years to come.”

Adds Paul: “The whole team at Joe Davies are immensely proud and honoured to be with the company as we transition to being an employee-owned business. Day to day this will ensure that

FACE TO FACE: JOE DAVIES

Left & right: Equilibrium jewellery and fashion accessories from Joe Davies, for both men and women, continue to be a winner. Shown is the Equilibrium ceramic collection, and bamboo socks for men and women.

Inset: EastWest’s My Favourite Glass - hand painted occasion glasses designed by Jennifer McAteer. Left: In keeping with the trend for mushrooms, Joe Davies has added new Mushrooms Glow LED houses.

The Gift Of Of The Year Finalists 2024

Following four days of live judging at February’s Spring Fair, the Gift of the Year finalists have been confirmed!

The winners in each of the categories will be revealed at the fabulous Gift Awards, alongside the winners of the Greats Awards (see pages 26-27) on May 16 at the glittering Royal Lancaster Hotel in London.

Best Beauty, Bath & Spa Product or Range

Botanical Bath Teas from Fruu

Herb Dublin Seaweed Hamper from Enesco

The Ink Balm Range from The Ink Balm

Luxury Hand and Body Soaps from Oir Soap

Mind Body Soul Twenty Minute Candles Range from Cotton & Grey

Natural Shower Steamers from Bramblewood Soap Co

Best Branded Gift Product or Range

Bagpuss Cat from Warmies

Shaun the Sheep Baa-guerita Pizza Plantable Children's Book from Willsow

Shaun the Sheep Collection from Little Beau Sheep

Taskmaster Christmas Crackers from Puzzle Post

The Traitors Special Edition Card Game from Ginger Fox Games

WWF Save the Bees Range from Beevive

Best Cards, Wrap & Stationery Product or Range

Braille Christmas Cards from Dotty About Braille

Choccy Cards from Rosie Made A Thing

Fuzzy Feelings Handmade Wool Felt Animals In A

Matchbox from Marvling Bros

Multi-foiled Notebooks from Wendy Jones-Blackett

Paper Theatre Pop Up Card Collection from Alljoy Design

Pigeon Range from Pigeon Loft

Best Children’s Educational &/or Preschool Product or Range

The Adventures of Paddington Tea Set and Soft Toy from Rainbow Designs

Create An Amazing Animal Kingdom Giant Map from Clockwork Soldier

Get Growing! Autumn Collection from Gardening for Kids

The Incredible Spaceman & UFO Book Lights from If RHS Growing Gardeners Family Gardening Range from Burgon & Ball

Sunshine Print-Paper from House of Marbles

Best Contemporary Gift Product or Range

Alice Mushroom Lamp from Gingko Design

Artful: Art School in a Box Printmaking Edition from Ohh Deer

Borosilicate Glass Mugs from Belly Button Designs

La Cafetière from Lifetime Brands Europe

Connections and Sea, City & Land Spirits Range from Modern Art

Distillery

The Secret Spectacle Society from If

Best Design & Craft Product or Range

Ambit Rainbow Tableware from Sue Ure Maison

DIY Bee Hotel Kit from Beevive

Peaceful Pond Needle Felting Kit from The Crafty Kit Company

The Personal Touch Jewellery Crafting Kit from Becca

Macdonald Studio

Tiny Ceramic Houses from Leamne Art and Crafts

Worrywarts from Cured

Best Ethical & Sustainable Gift Product or Range

DIY Bee Hotel Kit from Beevive

Fair Trade Artisan Bird Nesters from Wildlife World

The Grubby Gift Box from Purple Pilchard

Ocean Collection from VENT for Change

Our Fragrant World from Best Kept Secrets

Solid Shower Bars from Fruu

Best Fashion Accessories &/or Jewellery Product or Range

Aromatherapy Essential Oil Diffuser Bracelets from Kodes

I Like Birds Glasses Cases & Premium Glasses Cloths from Opticaid UK

The Personal Touch Jewellery Crafting Kit from Becca

Macdonald Studio

Silver Plated Engraved Bangles from Belly Button Designs

Silver Ring Kit from The Workbench London

Sterling Silver Earrings Collection from Hollie Tree Silver and Scents

Best Festive &/or Occasions Product or Range

Escape Advent Calendars from Insync Games

Gingerbread House Incense Cone Burner from Something Different Wholesale

Grow Your Own Christmas Tree from Gardening for Kids

Personalised Jam Biscuits from The Biskery

Sara Miller London Easter Gifting Collection from Elite

Twenty Minute Advent Candles from Cotton & Grey

Best Food &/or Drink Gift Product or Range

Date Night Hampers from Tyga Foods Company

Make Your Own Rolled Ice Cream Kit from Kimm & Miller

Mint Tins from Rosie Made A Thing

Personalised Wooden Chopping Board from Dinky Artist

Pop at Home Range from Popcorn Kitchen

Salami Christmas Cracker Gift Set from The Greek Farmer

Best Games or Puzzles Product or Range

The Art File Jigsaw Collection from Gibsons

Fast Track TfL Card Game from Gibsons

That Sound Game from That Sound Game

The Night Hunter Game from University Games & The Lagoon Group

Under The Radar: Dinner Party from Puzzle Post

You Can't Say Umm from Big Potato Games

Health & Wellbeing and Accessible Gifts

Bath Brews Gift Set from Clarity Blend

Braille Christmas Cards from Dotty About Braille

Eau Lovely The 7 Chakras Box of Positivity Candles from Enesco

Relaxation Eye Pillows from Clarity Blend

‘Thought for the Day’ Uplifting Desktop Quotes Book from Fox

Under The Moon

‘Watching from The Stars’ - A Little Book For Grief from Fox Under The Moon

Best Heritage Gift Product or Range

‘A Dog's Life’ Gift Book in partnership with Dogs Trust from The Little Dog Laughed

Kings & Queens Tote Bag from Mclaggan + Co

Marie Curie Felt Daffodil Brooch Kit from The Crafty Kit Company

National Gallery Reed Diffuser Masterpiece Scents Collection from Marmalade Of London

RNLI Boat House Playset from Playpress Toys

Royal Albert Hall Bees Collection from Victoria Eggs

Best Home Fragrance Gift Product or Range

Artisan Wax Melt Bar Collection from Henry & Co

Botanical Cast Car Freshener from The Foxglove Tree

Home Fragrance Collection from Olor

Just Because Three Lite Boxes from Best Kept Secrets

Melting Pots Mini Wax Melts from Hollie Tree Silver and Scents

Orange Giraffe Colour Changing Candle from Candlemeleon

Best Home, Kitchen & Garden Gift Product or Range

DIY Bee Hotel Kit from Beevive

Hanging Bird Feeder from Wrendale Designs

Plant Animals Pollinator Range from Another Studio

Plant Pot Egg Cup Set with Shovel Spoons from Something

Different Wholesale

Self Care Planter from Pikki designed by WITH Creative

Simon King Medusa Bird Feeder Defender from Wildlife World

Best International Product or Range

64 Piece Pastel Starter Pack from Connetix Tiles

102 Piece Rainbow Creative Pack from Connetix Tiles

BosilunLife Elemental Harmony Mini Desktop Pot from AllGoodThings

Fun Animal Friends Backpacks from Trixie

Fun Animal Friends Drinking Bottles from Trixie

Switzerland Range from Sock Academy

My Gift Of All Time

Amber Crystal Light from Gingko Design

Create Your Own Solar System from Clockwork Soldier

The Gift Of Time Twenty Minute Candle Set from Cotton & Grey

Hedgehog In A Hoop Needle Felting Kit from The Crafty Kit Company

Just Because Three Lite Boxes from Best Kept Secrets

Marshmallow Sloth from Warmies

Best Novelty, Tech &/or Gadgets Products or Range

Box Of Sticky Poo from Rex London

Cards Vs Gravity from Big Potato Games

Escape Advent Calendars from Insync Games

Sofa Mouse Pad from Kikkerland designed by WITH Creative

Spaceman & UFO Book Lights from If

V-Hush Pro Soothing Sleep Trainer from VTech

Best Pet Gift Product or Range

Grinch Pet Toys from Fizz Creations

Party Tricks for Dogs from Pikki designed by WITH Creative

Scion Living Pet Bed by Enesco

Scratch Book My Dog Journal, My Cat Journal from Gift Republic

Ten Bone Bowling from Big Potato Games

The Pet Collection from Wrendale Designs

Best Gift Under £15

Bags of Fun from Rosie Made A Thing

Easy Eats Air Fryer Recipe Cards from Boxer Gifts

Just Because Three Lite Boxes from Best Kept Secrets

Little Box Of Twenty Minute Candles Range from Cotton & Grey

‘One Step At A Time’ Paperback Book from Fox Under The Moon

Paper Plants Craft Kit from Pikki designed by WITH Creative

Inset: The GOTY live judging took place at Spring Fair.

If you haven’t already booked your tickets for the event, please do so!

Max Publishing in partnership with

16 May 2024 The Royal Lancaster London, London. 6.45pm

late. The categories within The Gift Awards 2024 see an amalgamation of retail awards as offered by The Greats Awards, and the product category awards as championed by The Giftware Association Book online at www.thegiftawards.com

Cotton & Grey

twenty minute candles

relaxation - meditation - mindfulness

view all our collections at cottonandgrey.com/brochure.pdf

cast your vote here

W: www.warmies.co.uk

E: sales@warmies.co.uk

heLp us wIN the peopLes choIce award by votINg For warmIes!

cast your vote here

FINaLIsts IN braNded gIFt

T: 01933 679 777 Warmies_UK WarmiesUK Warmies_UK Warmies_Official Warmies_UK

OIRSOAP.CO.UK

HELLO@OIRSOAP.CO.UK

Fluttering Butterf lies New for Spring

A Global Perspective

Awere very much as one when it came to trends, with themes such as Aura of Progress, Quality of Silence and Spirit of Craft reflected across both shows. l Aura of Progress (both visionary and experimental) brings together contradictory elements. “It’s about primal force meeting futurism, and archaism meeting hyper-innovation, with the space time continuum suspended in a seemingly magical way,” Anetta Palmisano explained. “Raw aesthetics and hyper-innovation generate an inexhaustible wealth of design possibilities, with intensive material research flowing in new approaches, along with the rediscovery of traditional craft skills and elementally strong materials such as wood, steel and stone.”

Added Annetta: “The trend is a conscious combination of pure nature with futuristic elements, with the digital and physical

thing is to know what will follow tomorrow,”

worlds merging in a vibrant colour palette, to include illusory impressions and ghostly effects that are otherworldly.”

l Quality of Silence (pure and familiar) focuses on a desire for calm, clarity in an everyday living environment, reflecting an holistic theme that’s both purist and soothing, with mild, positive colours at its heart. “The focus is on enjoying and appreciating the moment,” said Annetta. “It’s very user friendly, adding an edge to everyday life, tailored to personal preferences when using, say, a cup or a mug. Plus, colours that exude warmth, calm and lightness are at the heart of this trend,” she continued, “with familiar materials serving as the starting point for unusual designs that tell

Christmas 2024: What’s Trending

their own story. Simple resources from everyday life can be given a new meaning, with examples including eggshells, wood, leaves and bark, with everything either recycled or re-used. It’s about something you already know being given a new perspective through creative design.”

l Spirit of Craft (bold and poetical) highlights the diversity of craft skills, bringing them together in expressive combinations. “They reflect a free spirit, with a sophisticated colour palette playing a significant role, and almost forgotten materials and craft techniques combining to create unique objects,” explained Annetta.

Looking specifically at Christmas 2024, where pink was very much a trend colour across trees and decorations, Annetta added that for Christmas decorations this year, a key trend for 2024 was combining the past and the present. Sustainable giftwrapping and bows are a growth area, along with sustainable festive ornaments made out of paper with appeal to the senses.

“The Spirit of Craft in relation to Christmas is very artistic, often using forgotten techniques,” pointed out Annetta, “with patterns from the archives getting a modern twist, and unconventional decorations ruling the roost, with a new application of handmade items.”

Inset: Aura of Progress.

Inset: The Trends area at Ambiente. Below left: Spirit of Craft. Next year, Ambiente, Christmasworld and Creativeworld will take place at Messe Frankfurt from 7-10 February, 2025.

1: Equilibrium Mushroom Keyring Collection

As people are becoming more conscious of the environment, they are also becoming more interested in handcrafted gemstones, believed to hold spiritual and healing properties, with each gemstone having different benefits. The Equilibrium Gemstone mushroom keyring collection from Joe Davies combines this with the current mushroom trend. Attractive gemstone mushroom keyrings come with an acrylic counter display stand which features details of the properties each gemstone is thought to enhance. With a retail price point well below £5 these practical yet fun keyrings are the perfect way to generate impulse sales at your till point.

Joe Davies

T: 0161 975 6300

E: sales@joedavies.co.uk

W:  www.joedavies.co.uk

2: Pearl Perfection

Hot Tomato’s pearl offering continues to beguile us – be it gorgeous bracelets (featured), necklaces or earrings – they’ve got it covered. Symbolising wisdom and fabled for their protection and good luck properties pearls are also a beautiful, timeless staple. Combining them with crystal, natural stone and soft toned metal finishes is inspired and a further celebration of nature’s own gift!

Hot Tomato

T: 01225 422188

E: sales@hot-tom.com

W:  www.hot-tom.com

3: New Clairefontaine Tulip Collection

The Tulip collection from Clairefontaine features a choice of premium notebooks and accessories that boast an innovative design, which incorporates fragments of discarded tulip bulbs within the cover, offering a refined approach that combines a pleasing aesthetic with the environmental notion to strive towards a circular economy.

Exaclair Limited

T: 01553 696600

E: sales@exaclair.co.uk

W:  www.exaclairlimited.com

4: Add A Personal Touch To Your Wedding

Keep the younger guests entertained on your special day, with a fun personalised wedding activity book from PMC. Filled to the brim with wedding themed activities such as a word searches, colouring pages and spot the difference, the books aim to provide hours of fun. Personalised with the child’s name, not only on the front cover but featured throughout the whole book, adding that extra special touch. Available in both blue and pink.

PMC

E: sales@personalisedmemento.co.uk

W:  www.personalisedmemento.co.uk

5: Eternity Crystals Suncatchers

As we move into spring, suncatchers make the perfect special gift for the home, and the new eternity crystal suncatchers have the added bonus of a heartfelt sentiment message. The suncatchers are the ultimate fusion of coloured gemstones, sparkling crystals and bright colours, designed to hang in a window, so the sunlight catches all the beautiful colours. Each one has a sweet message so they can be given as a gift to family and friends or as home decor for a self-purchase.

Joe Davies

T: 0161 975 6300

E: sales@joedavies.co.uk

W:  www.joedavies.co.uk

New What s

Progressive Gifts & Home highlights some of the latest gift products and ranges available to retailers now

1: Flower Power

We’re feeling spoilt for choice with HotTomato’s latest offering of beautiful, delicate flower studs. Sometimes all you need is the tiniest sparkle to lift your spirits and these truly tick that box - a welcome addition to their already extensive offering of ear-candy – flower power at its loveliest!

Hot Tomato

T: 01225 422188

E: sales@hot-tom.com

W: www.hot-tom.com

2: Sustainability And Style On The Go

Introducing the Lesser and Pavey Eco-Friendly Travel Mugs - where art meets sustainability. The new range of Eco Travel Mugs combines artistic designs with eco-conscious materials. Featuring an array of captivating designs, the travel mugs showcase the watercolour artwork of the talented Jennifer Rose, the delightful Bee-tanical prints by Sarah Boddy, and timeless classics by renowned artists such as Van Gogh and William Morris. The mugs are crafted from RPET (Recycled Polyethylene Terephthalate) bottles, contributing to the reduction of plastic waste.

Lesser & Pavey

T: 01322 279225

E: sales@leonardo.co.uk

W: www.leonardo.co.uk

3: Thoughtful Gifts

Pretty Little Signs is a small business run by a husband and wife team, creating unique and beautiful signage. Each sign is crafted with the utmost care and attention to detail. Each frame is stained with a warm oak, a white backing board and black design. If you have a specific design request in mind, the team would love to hear from you. You can easily reach out to them through Instagram or Facebook messenger and they are always happy to work with their customers to create something truly unique and special.

Pretty Little Signs

T: 07538 247683 (text only)

E: enquiries.prettylsigns@hotmail.com  W: www.prettylittlesignspembs.com

4: Time For Something Sweet

Contemporary gift supplier Enesco has introduced another iconic statement figurine to its portfolio: Bee Sweet. Crafted with great attention to detail, the Disney Traditions extralarge statement figurine is a testament to the beloved classic Disney character, Winnie the Pooh. Sitting at 30.5cm, the statement piece features Winnie the Pooh with his favourite treat, a big jar of honey, accompanied by two buzzing bee friends. Supplied in a fully branded Disney Traditions gift box, with stock due in at the end of May, now is the time to place your orders. The piece is part of a 40+ product launch from Disney Traditions for 2024.

Enesco

T: 01228 404022

E: uksales@enesco.co.uk

W: www.enesco.co.uk

5: Flora In Abundance

Folk art is a spring theme at walking stick specialist Classic Canes. The two-section height-adjustable derby cane features folk flowers and butterflies in shades of red, blue, gold and green on a black background. The elegant walking stick can be adjusted from 73 to 95cm in length, so it can be easily altered to fit a customer in the shop or to the recipient of a gift later on. Managing director, Charlotte Gillan, explains: “Floral patterns are always popular for walking sticks and this latest design brings the concept right up to date with a fashionable folk art print. These walking sticks are as much fashion accessories as they are mobility aids and can be a real morale boost to a stick user.” Classic Canes stocks over 500 traditional contemporary models of walking sticks so there is something to suit all styles and tastes.

Classic Canes

T: 01460 75686

E: info@classiccanes.co.uk

W: www.classiccanes.co.uk

New What s

Progressive Gifts & Home highlights some of the latest gift products and ranges available to retailers now

UNITING THE GIFT INDUSTRY

Max Publishing in partnership with the Giftware Association

Marking a significant unified step forward for the UK gift industry, the GA’s Gift of the Year (GOTY) awards and The Greats gift retailer awards joined forces in 2022 to create The Gift Awards, with the winners of both awards programmes to be announced at a shared lavish black tie evening event in May, at the Royal Lancaster Hotel in London.

The two award programmes see both gift product excellence and retail prowess recognised and rewarded at an awards event to make the whole industry proud, attended by hundreds of gift suppliers and retailers.

Save the date for the most exciting gift sector event of 2024 now, sign up to newsflashes from GiftsandHome.net for updates.

1: Introducing Fun and Flocked Stitch

Enesco has unveiled the newest addition to its flocked collection: the 20cm tall, flocked Disney’s Stitch figurine from Grand Jester Studios. Made with a special coating that mimics the tactile sensation of Stitch's vibrant blue fur, it is inviting to touch and will be a stand-out piece to any customers. From his large ears to his toothy grin, every inch of the figurine has been crafted with love and care. 2024 is a great year for Enesco as the piece is part of its expanding flocked line, which also includes miniature versions of Stitch’s girlfriend Angel and Winnie the Pooh. Stitch is presented in a fully branded window box packaging.

Enesco

T: 01228 404022

E: uksales@enesco.co.uk

W: www.enesco.co.uk

2: New Birds, Bugs & Butterflies Range

Clockwork Soldier’s new spring kits - Make Your Own Fluttering Butterflies and Create Your Own Beautiful Blue Tit Nest - champion British wildlife and support the environment with an eco-friendly minimal waste design. Joining the company’s Birds, Bugs & Butterflies range, the creative, colourful kits bring the British countryside into your home.

Clockwork Soldier

T: 07936 434894

E: info@clockworksoldier.com

W: www.clockworksoldier.com

3: Nestle Your Specs In Nature’s Best

Discover Opticaid’s new eco chic glasses cases and 250 gsm premium lens cloths designed in collaboration with the Scottish brand I Like Birds. The range encompasses eight ‘birdylicious’ designs with contrasting plush linings and coordinating lint free cloths, arguably the best quality on the market. The product has made it to the finals of Gift of the Year 2024 and represents excellent value with an RRP of £15. And, even better, they’re crafted from 58% recycled materials.

Opticaid

T: 0113 239 1400

E: sales@opticaid.net

W: www.opticaid.net

4: Exquisite Woven Masterpieces

Since 2010, Signare has seamlessly woven masterpieces by renowned artists like Van Gogh, Monet and William Morris into exquisite tapestry materials. This year, it is introducing the Art Pashmina range, expanding its fusion of artistry and wearable luxury. Each pashmina measures 200cm in length, is adorned with a delicate 9-10 cm fringe on either side and spans 70 cm in width. Crafted from ecofriendly, recyclable materials - 80% polyester and 20% viscose – the Art Pashminas uphold sustainability without compromising quality. Carefully selected dyes enhance vibrancy while harmonising with the fabric, ensuring each piece is not just a work of art but also a tactile pleasure.

Signare Tapestry

T: +44 0127629483

E: info@acjade.co.uk

W: www.signaretrade.co.uk

5: New tabletop range

Lesser and Pavey has introduced a new tabletop range called Elements. Each piece is hand decorated before firing in the kiln, meaning each piece is individual. The reaction of the heat in the kiln makes for a perfect result with a lovely array of colours. In this new Lesser and Pavey range tabletop items offered include mugs, cup and saucer, sugar and creamer, jug, butter dish and teapot. To enhance the range further, each item comes in a full colour gift box.

Lesser & Pavey

T: 01322 279225

E: sales@leonardo.co.uk

W: www.leonardo.co.uk

New What s

Progressive Gifts & Home highlights some of the latest gift products and ranges available to retailers now

1: Where style meets functionality in every drop

Weighing just 440g and folding down to a compact 25cm size, Signare’s Folding Lightweight Art Umbrella is the ultimate onthe-go accessory for any occasion. Drawing inspiration from renowned artists like Van Gogh, Monet, William Morris and collaborations with The British Museum, each umbrella pattern reflects a commitment to artistic expression. Since its inception in 2014, now marking its tenth anniversary, the Art Umbrella line seamlessly integrates with the company’s popular tapestry bag designs, solidifying Signare's reputation as a beacon of artistic innovation. Crafted with UV protection from 100% recyclable fabric, the umbrellas also echo Signare’s dedication to sustainability.

Signare Tapestry

T: +44 0127629483

E: info@acjade.co.uk

W: www.signaretrade.co.uk

2: Stylish Hydration Accessory

Introducing Bottlesoc's super stretchy sleeve, made from recycled material. Each sleeve comes with a fully adjustable strap that can be worn over the body, shoulder, or across the arm. There are 12 designs to choose from, while a handy CDU (holds 24) with customer-friendly infographics is included. Started by Clare Davis, Bottlesoc helps solve the problem of staying hydrated on the go while still keeping you hands-free. No more spillage in your bag or leaving it on the bus! The sleeves will fit most bottles up to 750ml and help protect your bottle from everyday wear and tear.

Bottlesoc

T: Clare Davis on 07969360958

E: hello@bottlesoc.com

W: www.bottlesoc.com

3: Crystal Magic Awaits

Love Country has launched a new card and gift collection which promotes self-love, meditation, mindful living, manifesting your dreams and all-around good vibes. The Crystals cards have real crystals attached, while the Wishing Stone Cards and Wishing Candle Cards are all beautifully illustrated to nourish the mind body and soul. Offering thoughtful and sentimental gifts for the modern world, the collection comes with a full display stand. Each crystal and gemstone used in the collection has been carefully chosen for its unique healing properties. Enchanted gifts for a whimsical life.

Love Country

T: 01502 507352

E: support@lovecountryuk.co.uk

W: www.lovecountryuk.co.uk

4: Pucker Up

Natural lip balm ‘Sparkling Fizz’ is handpoured in Sheffield with added shea, mango and avocado butter. All of the company’s lip balms are enriched with jojoba oil to intensely nourish and replenish lips.

Agnes & Cat

T: 01142677723

E: enquiries@agnesandcat.org

W: www.agnesandcat.org/aclb-06

5: Stylish Solution

BrolleyMate is a new patented fashion accessory - svelte, modish, high-quality cases that stretch-to-fit any size umbrella by type. Simply carrying your umbrella helps prevent loss thereby reducing waste which helps the planet. Enjoy your day with freer hands, be more empowered and safer, save time and money on umbrellas, and avoid getting caught in the rain. Be first to style in a new way and look-and-feel great with BrolleyMate.

BrolleyMate

T: 07941 525177

E: info@brolleymate.com

W: www.brolleymate.com

New What s

Progressive Gifts & Home highlights some of the latest gift products and ranges available to retailers now

1: You Are An Angel

Discover a world of heartfelt emotions with You are an Angel’s collection of angel figurines. Crafted with love and attention to detail, the new crystal figurines fit perfectly in any space for any occasion. Each carries a unique sentiment, capturing the warmth and comfort you wish to convey. Unwrap not just a gift, but a cherished memory, as these angel figurines are thoughtfully presented in elegant gift boxes.

Enesco

T: 01228 404022

E: uksales@enesco.co.uk

W: www.enesco.co.uk

2: Yellow Submarine Stationery

Beatles mania swept the world in the 60’s, and now the iconic designs from that era are back. Coming into stock at Puckator are new Beatles-inspired Yellow Submarine stationery which includes pencil pots, a pencil case and notebooks. With psychedelic illustrations and a raft of products perfect for any desk, the stationery is sure to please any Beatles fans out there.

Puckator

T: 0800 0116969

E: customerservices@puckator.co.uk

W: www.puckator.co.uk

3: Perfect Travel And School Companions

Trixie is expanding its award nominated and bestselling backpacks and water bottles by introducing three new animal friends to the range - Mr Shark, Mr Parrot and Mrs Bumblebee. Trixie backpacks and water bottles are perfect travel and school companions for children from 2-6 years old. The smart designs will stimulate a child’s imagination and let them grow up confident.

Trixie

E: Scott.garnerbundy-higgs@trixie-baby.com

W: www.trixie-baby.com

4: Pampering Perfection

The new Wildflower Meadow range is extra kind to sensitive skin. The Bath Soak is created with a natural, skin-loving blend of coconut milk, oatmeal and mineral salts to leave sensitive skin feeling soothed and moisturised. The Wildflower Meadow Soap is free from essential oils and made using organic ingredients and enriched with soothing calendula and chamomile flowers to create a gentle soap for sensitive, eczema prone skin.

Bramblewood Soap

E: bramblewoodsoap@outlook.com

W: www.bramblewoodsoap.co.uk

5: Everlasting pencils

Puckator has unveiled two new ranges of exciting stationery. The Everlasting Pencils have an extra-strong tip that never requires sharpening. The pencils feature smooth, erasable graphite that glides across paper while maintaining its fine point for longer. The pens are not only durable, reusable and endlessly reliable, but they are incredibly cute, coming in multiple cartoony designs kids will love. The Erasable Pens are another great addition to the stationery line-up. Sporting a handy rubber on top combined with erasable ink, enabling you to rub out any mistakes made with the pen. With even more fun designs, it's one to look out for.

Puckator

T: 0800 0116969

E: customerservices@puckator.co.uk

W: www.puckator.co.uk

6: Heavenly Messenger

Wild Things Gifts’ Classic Guardian Angels continue to be popular. They are available in all 12 birthstone colours.

Wild Things Gifts

T: 01392 211268

E: sales@wildthingsgifts.com

W: www.wildthingsgifts.com

Progressive Gifts & Home highlights some of the latest gift products and ranges available to retailers now

HELEN PALLIS, OWNER, MEDUSA GEMS GIFT SHOP, SOUTHPORT

A small gift shop on a high street.

CATEGORYSUPPLIERS/RANGES COMMENT

Decorative Home Accessories

Home Fragrancing

Jewellery

Fashion Accessories

Other Hot Hits

Quail: vases;

Nordic Lights: tea light holders

Ashleigh & Burwood: fragrance lamps

Medusa Gems: Gemstone jewellery

Joe Davies: unisex socks

Wild Things: Guardian Angels hanging crystals

Quirky, unique and very collectable.

Sales have gone crazy. We can’t keep them in stock.

The fragrances are like nothing else on the market.

This jewellery is unique to us, and we also offer a bespoke service.

One size fits all. Always on trend.

A brand new range that’s a bread and butter line for us. The ruby heart in particular is flying off the shelves.

EMMA PAISEY, OWNER, DAISY PARK, SOUTH MOLTON

A medium sized gift shop on a high street.

CATEGORY SUPPLIERS/RANGES COMMENT

Decorative Home Accessories

Home Fragrancing

Jewellery

Greeting Cards

Giftwrap

Other Hot Hits

Gisela Graham: candlesticks;

Forma House: tableware

Toasted Crumpet: candles and soaps;

The English Soap Company: Kew Gardens

My Doris: across the board;

Coral & Mint: across the board

The Art File

Kali Stileman

Designworks Collective: stationery

We do well with the company’s stylish fine glass candlesticks.

The Mediterranean inspired melamine make lovely statement pieces.

These smell divine and are beautifully packaged.

Delightful gifts in classic wrap.

The jewellery and beauty bags feature quirky fun designs.

A Devon-based independent company with good price points and fun, modern designs.

The Toby range features the cutest dog illustrations which have a following. A firm favourite.

Modern, vibrant designs.

Tongue in cheek notebooks, notepads and stationery that make you smile.

Right: Ashleigh & Burwood fragrance lamp. Below right: Wild Things’ 40th anniversary ruby heart.

Right: The Toby range from The Art File.

Below: Toasted Crumpet soaps.

JENNI TAYLOR, BUYER, ALLIGATOR PEAR, TADWORTH

A large village gift shop.

CATEGORYSUPPLIERS/RANGES COMMENT

Decorative Home Accessories

Home Fragrancing

Jewellery

Fashion Accessories

Gisela Graham: Spring collection

Freckleface: wax melts and burners;

Portmeirion: Fired Earth

White Leaf: earrings and necklaces; No Shrinking Violet

One Hundred Stars: across the board;

Zelly: scarves and jumpers

Greeting Cards

Giftwrap

Other Hot Hits

Sarah Kelleher Museums & Galleries

Elizabeth Scarlett: beauty bags;

Fancy Metal Goods: train cases

The new range makes the shop feel fresh and bright, with customers shopping early for Easter.

The fragrances are divine. Exceptional value for the price of an individual melt.

This has been a great addition to our home fragrance range. Black Tea is already in our top 10 best selling items in the shop.

Gorgeous, affordable earrings and necklaces.

Fun, bright jewellery.

One of our customers’ favourite brands. Gorgeous patterns.

Our new collection of pretty scarves and bright jumpers have been a gorgeous addition.

Her floral cards are beautiful and always sell well for us.

The new collection of wrap, bags and tissue have proved a hit with our customers.

We recently introduced the A-Z beauty bags and they’re proving a big success.

These were one of our top sellers at Christmas, and sold well for Mother’s Day.

CATEGORY SUPPLIERS/RANGES COMMENT

Decorative Home Accessories

Home Fragrancing

Edge Sculpture: across the

The Classic Candle Company: across the

Maison Berger: fragrance lamps

Customers love these happy products for a self-purchase as well as a gift.

Stunning statement pieces.

The reed diffusers fly out of the door. Customers love the choice and that they last for months.

Good choice of design and price points. They do something useful as well as looking good.

Jewellery

Fashion & Fashion Accessories

Greeting Cards

Giftwrap

Other Hot Hits

Life Charms: Just Because bracelets;

Crumble & Core: earring cards

Long & Son: handbags;

Pure Fashion: scarves

Berni Parker Designs

Deva Designs

Keel Eco Baby: plush toys

So soft, good prices and made from plastic bottles, so tick lots of boxes for customers. LESLEY

Great gifts at a reasonable price covering all occasions.

Lovely gifts which are postable as well as cute.

Lots of styles and colours at great prices.

Lots of styles, colours and seasonal choices.

The Ladies Who Love Life range makes customers giggle.

Lovely quality wrap and bags. The paper is often double-sided so good value for money.

Above right: Part of Gisela Graham’s Spring range. Right: Freckleface wax melts.

DCUK: all sizes and ranges of wooden ducks

board

board;

Below: Wooden duck from DCUK. Bottom: Just Because from Life Charms.

1: Beatlemania

Beatles fans everywhere will enjoy adding a touch of musical nostalgia to their morning brew with these Sgt Pepper’s drum shaped mug and teapot. Following the huge success of Half Moon Bay’s Beatles range, which features iconic album covers such as Abbey Road and Yellow Submarine, these shaped ceramics are the perfect additions to an already exciting range.

Half Moon Bay

E: sales@halfmoonbay.co.uk

W: www.halfmoonbay.co.uk

2: Magnificent Mushrooms

Add a touch of whimsical charm to your plant pots with these Mushroom Plant Markers. With four cute designs, they will transform your plants into fun-gis! Gift Republic

T: 02085424836

E: info@giftrepublic.com

W: www.giftrepublic.com

3: Celestial Charm

The glorious Radiance Angel – a huge hit at Spring Fair. With jewellery quality crystals from you know who and a delicate ‘sweet but not too sweet’ design, she is a more than worthy addition to the best-selling Wild Things Radiance range.

Wild Things Gifts

T: 01392 211268

E: sales@wildthingsgifts.com

W: www.wildthingsgifts.com

4: Harry Potter Travel Accessories

Broomstick, Floo Network, Hippogriff – h owever you travel, take a piece of Harry Potter magic with you everywhere you go with these NEW passport wallets and bag tags from Half Moon Bay. Show your true colours with a House Badge or choose from iconic Wizarding World designs such as The Marauders Map, Hogwarts and Diagon Alley. With classic, much loved characters Dobby and Hedwig the range has something for every muggle to travel in style.

Half Moon Bay

E: sales@halfmoonbay.co.uk

W: www.halfmoonbay.co.uk

5: Brand-new Filthy Gorgeous Shower Gel Range

The team at Go La La have been beavering away creating a brand new addition to their funny Filthy Gorgeous range, and are launching six brand new shower gels! Laden with their typical trademark humour and distinctive packaging, the gels are bottled in plastic-free sexy aluminium black bottles and labelled with biodegradable stickers. Vegan, cruelty free, without palm oil, SLS or parabens, they are fragranced with gorgeous essential oils. Designs include Golden Shower (of course), Dick Splash and more.

Go La La

E: info@golala.co.uk

W: www.golala.co.uk

New What s

Progressive Gifts & Home highlights some of the latest gift products and ranges available to retailers now

JOE DAVIES

T: 0161 975 6300

E: sales@joedavies.co.uk

W: www.joedavies.co.uk

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!

CORAL & MINT

T: 07739580975

E: kate@coralandmint.com

W: www.coralandminttrade.com

DESIGNWORKS COLLECTIVE

T: 01225 9312322

E: sales.uk@dw-collective.com

W: https://trade.designworkscollective.co.uk

WILD THINGS GIFTS

T: 01392 211268

E: sales@wildthingsgifts.com

W: www.wildthingsgifts.com

CRUMBLE & CORE

T: 01825 841412

E: crumbleandcore@gmail.com

W: www.crumbleandcore.com

FRECKLEFACE HOME FRAGRANCE

T: 01778 393699

E: hello@frecklefacehomefragrance.com

W: www.frecklefacetrade.com

KEEL TOYS LIMITED

T: +44 (0) 1233 506363

E: sales@keeltoys.com

W: www.keeltoys.com

LIFE CHARMS

T: +44 0203 488 2656

E: sales@lifecharms.co.uk

W: www.lifecharms-trade.co.uk

EDGE SCULPTURE

T: 01952 884804

E: sales@edgesculpture.com

W: www.edgesculpture.com