Progressive Gifts & Home - May/June 2016

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May/June 2016

emails: sales@xystos.co.uk

Contact

Tel: +44 (0)191 499 1570

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

From baby to toddler to starting school

EXHIBITIONS

THE HOME OF MARKET LEADING TRADE AWARDS

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

This Month

It's been a very exciting few weeks here at Progressive Gifts, with The Greats Awards a major focus as we get closer to the big day on Thursday May 5 when the winners will be announced! (For more news about The Greats and this year's finalists, turn to page 7).

In a change of venue this year, guests will be wining and dining, not to mention enjoying plenty of networking (!), at the super glamorous, recently refurbished Ballroom at the imposing Grosvenor House Hotel on London's Park Lane. (If you'd like to be a part of the industry's unique gift retailer awards, then contact Clare Davis on 01183 340085 or by emailing her at clare@createvents.co.uk. But please hurry, because space is limited and tickets are selling out fast!).

What else is ramping up the action here this month? The answer is Progressive Greetings Live, the dedicated greeting card show that is owned by Max Exhibitions. From the newest to the most established greeting card publishers, retailers large and small - to include lots of gift retailers - will soon be beating a path to the Business Design Centre in London's trendy Islington to put their full attention on sourcing the cards that will put them one step ahead of their competitors on the high street. (See Greetings! on pages 31-33).

The show takes place on Tuesday and Wednesday May 10-11, with a free lunch and refreshments over both days available to all visitors, along with a free invitation to the after-show drinks party on Tuesday May 10. With the recent PG&H Retailer Barometer showing that, for independent gift shops, greeting cards are the number one driver for increasing sales, if you're a gift retailer who is serious about cards, can you afford not to be there? Visit www.progressivegreetingslive.com Meanwhile, with retailers, as ever, so close to our hearts, we've also taken a look at the impact of the new National Living Wage in our Feedback article (see pages 25-27). There's no getting away from it, it's going to be an uphill struggle for most, with independent gift retailers sharing their thoughts on the new government legislation. As for the controversial new business rate reforms, our insightful columnist Michael Weedon, bira's deputy ceo and communications director, tells it like it is in You Win Some, You Lose Some on page 23.

Elsewhere in the magazine, we spotlight the rise and rise of the Millennials (see Gift of the Gab by John Jackson on page 21), the latest cutting edge trends for Autumn/Winter 2016/17 at Pulse (see page 29) and take a peek at the new BCTF show taking place in London later this year (see page 65).

But first, I'm going to be heading off to, not only PG Live, in the coming weeks, but also to Pulse at London's Olympia and Exclusively Housewares at London's Business Design Centre.

Who knows what you might find and who you might bump into, if you put your best foot forward!

Top: Someone's got to do it! Sue gets a taste of the specially created menu for The Greats Awards devised by the executive chef at the Grosvenor House.

Above left: Sue catches up with the 'cardies' at last year's PG Live. (See Greetings! on pages 31-33).

Cover: WoodWick Pineapple distributed in the UK by Xystos – Flame & Fragrance.

Publishers Jacqueline Brown, Warren Lomax and Ian Hyder

Design & Production Russell Sutton

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

Progressive Gifts & Home is published 7 times a year.

Subscription: UK; one year £50, two years £85 or three years £110. Overseas; one year £75, two years £125 or three years £165. Please send your cheque to: Progressive Gifts & Home, Max Publishing Ltd, United House, North Road, London N7 9DP. Tel: 020 7700 6740 Fax 020 7609 4222/020 7607 6411 email: ianh@max-publishing.co.uk Copyright 2008. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the information in this magazine was correct at the time of going to press, the publishers cannot accept legal liability for any errors or omissions, nor can they accept responsibility for the standing of advertisers nor any organisation mentioned in the text. Views of contributors do not necessarily reflect those of the publishers.

PROGRESSIVE GIFTS & HOME WORLDWIDE

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An exceptional buying experience for exceptional results An inspiring array of new product launches and retail insight, all set in a uniquely social atmosphere.

Find it all first at Home & Gift. Register now at homeandgift.co.uk/pgh Giftware | Jewellery & Fashion | Interiors & Accessories | Greetings & Stationery

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Home & Gift Harrogate DP4-1 The stand by the entrance !

Inside

See men’s gifts in a new light

7-19

News

21

Gift Of The Gab SMART WAY TO SHOP

23

Sounding Off YOU WIN SOME, YOU LOSE SOME

25-27 Feedback PAYING THE PRICE 29

Trends DARE TO BE DIFFERENT

31-33 PG Live GREETINGS! 35-37 Spotlight On... Wedding Gifts FEEL THE LOVE PAGES 35-37

PAGES 57-61

39-45 Spotlight On... Home Fragrancing FRAGRANT DAYS OF SUMMER 47-49 Spotlight On... Bath and Body BODY BEAUTIFUL 57-61 Spotlight On... Kitchen Gifts PACKING A PUNCH 65

Spotlight On... BCTF London LONDON CALLING

70-71 Best Sellers 73

On The Road: Helen Hoggard

73

Last Word: Lisa Shoesmith

mugs cufflinks socks keyrings pins hankies coasters birthday cards and more.....

T 01202 57 00 57 E info@elementgifts.com

Sue Marks Editor

Angie Bryant Advertisement Manager

Ian Hyder Publishing Director

suem@max-publishing.co.uk

angieb@max-publishing.co.uk

ianh@max-publishing.co.uk

W elementgifts.com PROGRESSIVE GIFTS & HOME WORLDWIDE

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Industry News

The Greats Awards

International Honey Tasting

All A-Buzz London is definitely the place to be on Thursday May 5! Not only will the capital be choosing a new Mayor but, excitingly for the gift industry, the winners of The Greats Awards 2016 will be announced at a spectacular event that takes place in the glittering Ballroom of the historic Grosvenor House Hotel on Park Lane!

This year's fabulous Greats finalists range from the smallest to the largest gift retailers and gift departments - to include garden centres, museums/visitor attractions and jewellery shops - and each of them will be crossing their fingers tightly as the sponsor for each individual category reads out the winning shop names!

In addition, there will also be Greats trophies for the Best Retail Employee and the Best Service to the Independent Gift Retailer, as well as a very special Honorary Achievement Award for an outstanding individual who has contributed greatly to the gift industry.

"The Greats Awards are now in their 14th year, and the most prestigious retail awards in the industry," says PG&H's editor Sue Marks. "Many 2016 finalists have already made the most of their success by using their websites, social media and local media to share the news, as well as putting up posters and banners in store to let their customers, and the world at large, know about their success."

Adds Sue: "We've had to make some tough decisions, but we couldn't be more excited to announce the winners on May 5."

This year's Greats theme of birds, bees and butterflies will be reflected in the eagerly anticipated goody bags which are brimming with themed gifts, and which will be given to all attendees.

A list of all 2016 finalists can be found on The Greats website - www.thegreatsawards.co.uk - with winners announced online, along with photos of the Awards, shortly after the event.

For those that would like to be a part of The Greats Awards, but haven't booked a ticket yet - there are just a few remaining - please contact event organiser Clare Davis on 0118 334 0085 or email: clare@createvents.co.uk. ● Each Greats finalist will also be receiving a £50 bonus voucher to spend at dedicated greeting card show PG Live which takes place on May 10-11 at London's Business Design Centre. (See Greetings! on pages 31-33). ● The Greats Awards, organised by Progressive Gifts & Home magazine, and owned by Max Publishing, were first launched in 2003 to recognise and reward the very best in gift retail.

Above: Which shop names will be on the Greats trophies this year?

Above left: All Greats finalists have received a £50 bonus voucher to spend at PG Live in May. (See pages 31-33).

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

The Greats Sponsors 2016 The Greats 2016’s strong line up of sponsors, in alphabetical order, include: Carrie Elspeth; Carte Blanche Group; Clarion Events/Home & Gift Harrogate; Gift Republic; Gisela Graham; Harrogate Christmas & Gift; i2i Events/Autumn Fair/Spring Fair; IF (That Company Called); Joe Davies; Kaemingk; London Stationery Show/National Stationery Week; Parlane International; PG Live; Premier Decorations; Ravensden; Really Good/Soul; Root Candles; Sass & Belle; The Giftware Association; Wild & Wolf; Xystos; Yankee Candle.

With bees a popular theme at this year's Greats Awards, category sponsor Root Candles - which is also sponsoring The Greats pre-lunch champagne reception - will be bringing honeys from all over the world for guests to sample, along with a beehive.

Plus, Roots' very own 'No 1 in the world' beekeeper, Kim Flottum, who is also the advisor to Her Majesty the Queen's Royal beekeeper, John Chappell, will be attending the event.

A copy of Beekeeper magazine will also be going into every Greats goody bag along with Root’s signature candle, Drizzling Honey.

Above: Beekeeper Kim Flottum.

Below: Drizzling Honey from Root Candles.

Bira High Street Conference With the debate on Europe reaching fever pitch, the British Independent Retailers Association (bira) will be welcoming former shadow business secretary Chuka Umunna to this year’s High Street Conference, to talk about what any potential changes to Britain’s relationship with Europe might mean for independent retailers.

(See You Win Some, You Lose Some on page 23).

Umunna joins Greg Williams from Wired magazine along with a number of other game changing speakers, all looking at the future of retail, at the Chateau Impney in Worcestershire on May 11.

Shanker Patel, from the Lords Group of Companies, Jane Means, author, presenter and customer service expert and Claire Harper, owner of independent childrenswear retailer IndiaCoco (and a former Mamas & Papas marketing director) will also be looking ahead, with a particular focus on how digital technology can work with, rather than against, bricks and mortar businesses. ● Bira will also be celebrating the UK’s best independent retailers at the British Independent Retail Awards 2016. Visit www.thehighstreetconference.co.uk for more information and to download the booking form.

Above: Chuka Umunna will be a keynote speaker at the bira High Street Conference in May.

PROGRESSIVE GIFTS & HOME WORLDWIDE

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Lovely

GIFT IDEAS

For display. For notes. For gifting.

Ask us forr a copy of our co olo lour urfu full ca cata talo logu gue. e.

Teel : +4 +44 4 (0)1751 47 57 57 5 Ema Em E ail : ni nicethin ings gs@ @thatcompa pany nycalllled edif.ccom t ha tco co mp mpa nyca l le led d if. i f co m

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Industry News

In The Media Spotlight Greats Finalists Pull Out All The Stops This year's Greats finalists were certainly fast off the mark to spread the news of their success. "In addition to receiving an editorial in Glasgow's West End magazine we had Greats posters printed and badges made which we all now wear on our uniforms to tell everyone that we have been shortlisted," bubbled Denise Laird, owner of Spirito. "There's been quite a buzz about in the shop and we are all so delighted! " Another Scottish retailer, The Herbary in Troon in Scotland, saw the shop's success fanfared in the Ayr Advertiser. "We were so excited, especially as it appeared on page 3 of the local paper!" enthused owner Claire O'Donnell. Further coverage for the shop included a half page in the business section of the Ayrshire Post.

At Scarborough’s Retro 36, md John Jackson was interviewed by Yorkshire Coast Radio. "I was super excited to be interviewed by Sophie Merrick on the station's Monday morning radio slot," said John. "The radio station also published an article about the shop's award nomination on its website."

Meanwhile, over in the Port Erin, Isle of Man, finalist Mantons was featured in the Manx Independent, as well as on local radio. "We're also expecting coverage in at least two other publications this month," confirmed owner Chris Beards. (See Winning Ways With Gifts below).

Above right: From left to right, and wearing their Greats finalists badges, are Spirito sales assistants Rachel Fleming and Rachel Rogers who are shown with shop manager Marion McCloskey.

Above left: Among the press coverage for The Herbary, Troon.

Left: Mantons also hit the headlines.

Celebrating 10 Years About Living (right) in Scotland is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year and is continuing to open new stores.

"We opened our third shop in Perth at the end of last year, and are looking to open a fourth store this year," md Gary Hogan told PG&H. Other About Living stores are based in Giffnock and Newton Mearns. The company has also relaunched its website and introduced personalisation in gift and homewares.

In addition, a completely new channel for the business is the launch of wholesale company Studio Sweet and Sour which has been appointed as the UK and Ireland distributor for stationery and accessories company Oli Olsen. "Over the next year we will be adding more brands," confirmed Gary, who says he is currently on the lookout for sales agents.

Winning Ways With Gifts

Above: Artist Katrina Bell with Chris Beards, owner of Mantons.

Artist Katrina Bell was recently announced as the winner of an innovative craft competition set by independent Isle of Man retailer Mantons. Along with the other entrants, she rose to the challenge of designing a range of gifts made from recycled materials, to be featured in one of Mantons’ windows, with all proceeds from sales going to Crossroads Care, an Isle of Man charity.

"As well as raising funds for such a fantastic local charity, the idea of the competition was to help raise the profile of local artists and we are proud to showcase an artist like Katrina in one of our windows," comments Chris Beards, owner of Mantons, Port Erin. "We have helped Crossroads with their funding in the past and hope to continue to support this fantastic local charity in the future," added Chris.

An Edible Christmas Gift Fit For A Queen What do you buy the Queen for Christmas? It was the gift giving dilemma that challenged The Duchess of Cambridge when she first joined the Royal family. "I thought back to what I would give my own grandparents," explained Kate, who was among the Royals interviewed for the programme Our Queen At 90 which was shown on ITV on Easter Monday. "I thought, 'I'll make her something, which could have gone horribly wrong. But I decided to make my granny's recipe of chutney." ● Gourmet food gifts were also on the menu at many of the Spring trade shows, with Top Drawer, Ambiente in Frankfurt and HOMI in Milan all introducing or expanding the sector.

Above: Kate's dilemma? What to give the Queen for Christmas.

Walking For Charity The annual Cardgains Charity Challenge takes place on June 23 in the Peak District, with the organisation's 20 mile walk raising funds for The Rainbow Trust children's charity.

"June 23 is a historic day for Europe as it's Referendum Day, so let's make our event extra special this year on this very special day and have a great turnout," states Cardgains' Chris Dyson.

"Over the last 18 years we have raised £225,000 so let's see what we can do in 2016." Visit www.cardgains.co.uk

On The Move Having outgrown the company's offices and warehousing in Walton-on-Thames, Ashleigh & Burwood will shortly be moving from its current building to new premises to accommodate the company's growth. “We're proud and excited to be taking this next step in the company’s development and look forward to the benefits and opportunities the move will bring to the business as a whole," explains md Andrew Nettleton.

The new offices will remain in Surrey to enable the full Ashleigh & Burwood team to make the move.

Below: From left to right: John and Andrew Nettleton, chairman and md respectively of Ashleigh & Burwood.

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Innovations, trends and insights. International and inspiring.

Tendence 2016. Be there! fresh-new-ideas.com info@uk.messefrankfurt.com Tel. +44 (0) 14 83 48 39 83

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Industry News

Honoured!

Queen's Award For Portmeirion Group As the Queen's celebrated her 90th birthday on April 21, Portmeirion Group announced that the company has been awarded The Queen’s Award for Enterprise in the International Trade category. The Award recognises the Group’s continuous growth in overseas sales and overall outstanding achievement in international trade over the last six years.

The Award, consisting of a Grant of Appointment, will be presented by the Lord Lieutenant of Staffordshire at Portmeirion Group’s offices later this year.

"Portmeirion Group's 700 employees, based in the UK and in the USA, are honoured to receive this award," stated Dick Steele, chairman of Portmeirion Group. "Portmeirion, Spode and Royal Worcester are global brands, and our fine tableware has been gracing homes throughout the world for over 250 years. The Spode Blue Italian pattern celebrates its 200th anniversary this year, a testament to our continuing commitment to quality, utility and beauty."

Phil Atherton, group sales & marketing director, adds: “Portmeirion Group has been a major UK success story in the exporting of products to many international markets. Our diversified product range, supply base, wide markets and people are the key to our success.

This award for excellence is great recognition for our skills and brands.”

Portmeirion has enjoyed a seventh consecutive year of record sales in 2015 with revenues and earnings being driven to their highest ever levels. Revenues increased by 11.9% to £68.7 million, Above: Since its launch in 1972, it is estimated that while profit before tax increased 13.6% to an all time high of £8.6 over 50 million pieces of Botanic Garden are still in million. The Group was able to grow its dividend for the seventh use and on display all over the world. consecutive year, which increased by 13.2% from 2014 to 30.00p.

The Group has also improved its sales in the UK and the USA, the largest overseas market, which represents nearly a third of its sales, and has also enjoyed revenue growth in Asia. In particular, India has seen exceptional growth, primarily due to the wedding gift market.

Contradicting a more general market move to overseas production, Portmeirion Group has grown its manufacturing in the UK to ensure a competitive advantage through knowledge and authentication of its British brands. The company recently installed a new kiln and has just started to increase production by some 20,000 best quality pieces per week. In 2015, the Group attained Investors in People silver level and became the first company in the UK to be awarded the new Investment in Young People (IiYP) award.

Closed Sign Goes Up At Mulberry Hall York’s iconic china and glass store, Mulberry Hall, closed in mid March, having traded in the city’s historic Stonegate for 60 years. The store had 17 showrooms over three floors, carrying prestigious brands such as Wedgwood, Royal Worcester, Spode, Royal Copenhagen and Waterford crystal, as well as contemporary ranges from Cath Kidston and Villeroy & Boch in its Dining warehouse.

Earlier this year, Adam Sinclair, md, expressed his sadness at the prospect of closing.

Below: Mulberry Hall has closed.

200 For 200 Campaign Portmeirion Group employees have pledged to dedicate a combined 200 hours of their time to a local charity - Douglas Macmillan Hospice in North Staffordshire - to mark the 200th anniversary of Spode Blue Italian, one of the Group’s most iconic designs.

Some 63% of the Portmeirion workforce voted to support the charity throughout Blue Italian’s anniversary year, with 24 names selected at random by Dougie Mac’s head of corporate fundraising and events, Suzi Smith, to take part in an array of activities over the next 10 months.

Phil Atherton, group sales and marketing director of Portmeirion Group, will be getting

Queen's Award For Blue Eyed Sun As Jeremy Corner (right), md of Blue Eyed Sun gets ready to take over the reins from Henri Davis as vice chairman of The Giftware Association on June 15 he has some other big news to shout about, with the card publisher having been awarded a prestigious Queen's Award for Enterprise in International Trade.

The award is in recognition of exceptional export growth in the last three years for the Brighton based company. Blue Eyed Sun's owners, Jo and Jeremy Corner, have been invited to HM The Queen's Reception at Buckingham Palace in July along with other Queen's Award winners.

“We are thrilled that the Blue Eyed Sun team has been recognised for their hard work in growing internationally with this highly prestigious and coveted award," says Jeremy.

He confirms that the export side of Blue Eyed Sun has grown massively in the last four years. It represents over 20% of the company's annual turnover and is continuing to grow.

"Our goal has been to add three countries per year and we've exceeded that by getting at least four per annum. We sell in Europe, USA, Asia, Africa, Australasia and the Middle East," he confirms. ● Jeremy Corner will officially become vice chairman of The Giftware Association at the organisation's Members Day, which is taking place on June 15 at Federation House in Birmingham.

(See GA Members Day on page 15).

involved in supporting the charity’s retail team over the next few weeks. “This year is such an exciting year for Spode and it’s great that we’re able to share it by supporting such a worthy cause,” comments Phil.

Portmeirion Group volunteers will fulfil their voluntary hours each month and will take part in activities such as gardening, assisting the Dougie Mac Retail Team in the shops, as well as leaflet distribution and coin counting.

The 200 for 200 campaign has already seen Portmeirion Group unveil Spode’s new Blue Italian inspired anniversary collection Giallo. The company will also be organising a window display competition, retailer hosted birthday parties across the globe, and a social media campaign.

Above: Portmeirion Group volunteers prepare for their 200 for 200 with Dougie Mac representative Louise Eagles (top centre).

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Industry News

What's Trending

PG Live Bigger And Better With greeting cards right up there as a crucial and profitable element in every gift retailers’ product mix, the strongest publisher exhibitor line-up at the imminent Progressive Greetings Live makes this special trade show even more enticing for gift indies this year.

With over 250 exhibitors, PG Live (Tuesday 10 May and Wednesday 11 May at London’s Business Design Centre) is the biggest in the trade show’s history. Over 100 publishers are exhibiting exclusively at PG Live with lots of new and emerging talent in the Springboard and Springboard Extra sections.

“It’s wonderful to think that in a few days time, the world of greeting cards will come together at PG Live,” stated Warren Lomax, show director of PG Live. “This will be the eigth PG Live and we have had more support than ever before from publishers, retailers and overseas distributors, all of whom are passionate about what really is a celebration of greeting cards. It’s where business meets pleasure,” adds Warren.

All visitors to the show will enjoy free refreshments, as well as a two course lunch and a free invitation to the after show party on Tuesday May 10.

As well as a very strong roster of greeting card publishers, the show also includes giftwrap companies, party suppliers and some select gift companies.

(See Greetings! on pages 31-33).

Above: London’s Business Design Centre will welcome gift retailers to PG Live on May 10-11.

Unique Paper Necklaces In a unique collaboration, specialist paper company Fedrigoni UK has teamed up with designer Pia Wustenburg of Utopia and Utility to produce 30 one off, limited edition pendants made from Fedrigoni papers, that will be given away at PG Live 2016. Worth £60 each, 10 necklaces are to be gifted to Greats and Retas winners and finalists attending the pre-lunch drinks reception at the show on Tuesday May 10, which takes place on the Gallery level between 12.45 and 1.15pm.

A further 20 necklaces will be offered as part of a prize draw to PG Live exhibitors. Visit The Fedrigoni stand 542.

Above: Some 30 unusual paper necklaces, using Fedrigoni papers, are being given away by the company at PG Live.

All Change At Tendence When the doors open at Tendence, held at Messe Frankfurt from August 27-30, it will be a new look show for visitors who will discover that the main Living and Giving sections have been repositioned and restructured. “By rearranging the product groups, we aim to help buyers orientate themselves better at the fair and thus generate new purchasing impulses,” says Nicolette Naumann, vice president of Tendence and Ambiente.

Among the highlights of the show will be a Young Gifts product group, which will include original gift ideas, amusing fast-moving items, trendy souvenirs and stationery, as well as games, toys and children’s accessories, which will run alongside a Culinary Gifts product group that features a special Liquid Gifts area.

"The central thematic focus is one of enjoyment and indulgence," confirms Sabine Scharrer, director, Living. "We have therefore deliberately put together an area to showcase the exciting interplay between food products that can be given as presents, table and kitchen accessories, and alcoholic drinks."

Other 'firsts' at the show include a guide for sustainable or ethically produced articles as part of the Tendence catalogue, and the Tendence Academy, an extensive programme of events for the retail trade.

Visit www.tendence.messefrankfurt.com

Rebecca Saunders, head of development at leading online retailer notonthehighstreet.com, was the keynote retail speaker at the London Stationery Show at the end of April.

Confirmed Rebecca: “Stationery is a large and fast growing category at notonthehighstreet.com. We’re a destination for bespoke ranges such as wedding stationery and decorations and are continuing to grow our core stationery ranges such as notebooks, diaries, cards and wrapping. Our customers choose stationery as an extension of their style and personality so sourcing unique designs from small creative stationers really appeals to them.”

Her presentation looked at how stationery fits into the notonthehighstreet.com offer, its increasing popularity as Partners – typically smaller creative manufacturers - respond to consumer demand for innovative and personalised options for how they make notes and share the written word. She also shared insights into stationery styles and current trends.

Additionally, Phil Pond of trend forecasters Scarlet Opus presented an update on current and future global trends.

Pitch Your Ideas Not On The High Street is holding three Pitch Up events at the notonthehighstreet.com HQ in Richmond, Surrey - Spring Event: Saturday 30 April; Summer Event: Saturday 16 July; Autumn Event: Saturday 8 October.

Now in its second year, Pitch Up aims to give the most promising creative entrepreneurs the opportunity to showcase their businesses and product ideas. Throughout the day, attendees will have the opportunity to speak to product specialists across a range of categories.

Not On The High Street offers consumers a curated product selection with unique designs and high quality craftsmanship.

Focus on Home Following on from Widdop & Co's Focus on Sentiment held in their North Manchester showrooms in April, the company will be hosting a Focus on Home show. The event runs from May 9-13, with the spotlight on the company’s home brands, including Home Living, Hestia, Hometime clocks and Juliana Impressions photo frames.

Below: Widdop & Co's Home Living by Juliana.

Left: Visitors to last year's Tendence.

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Industry News

GA Members Day What's On The Agenda The Giftware Association Member's Day on June 15, to be held at Federation House, Vyse Street, Birmingham, will see chairman Michael Papé, a director at Ravensden, hand over the chairmanship of The GA to Henri Davis, the first person from a retailing background to hold the position. Blue Eyed Sun's md Jeremy Corner will take over as vice-chairman.

(See Queen’s Award For Blue Eyed Sun on page 11).

Guest speakers have yet to be finalised, but the day which includes the AGM - will follow last year’s successful formula, with panellists debating current industry issues.

After a networking lunch, there will be workshops and surgeries spanning a wide range of subjects of interest to Above: Sarah Ward, chief executive of the GA. both retailers and suppliers.

Since her appointment as chief executive last Autumn, Sarah Ward has been reaching out to existing and potential members, covering 16 previously unvisited trade shows in the first few months of this year. A further eight shows will be visited in April and May. Sarah explains: “Our industry is extremely diverse and we are very keen to engage with businesses which do not necessarily attend, or exhibit at, what are generally recognised as being the key gift and home events, as we feel our services can be of real relevance to a wider audience.”

A highlight of Members Day will be the unveiling of a rebranding of The Giftware Association. ● The GA will hold its next Business Boost Day seminars on Wednesday May 18 at its Federation House HQ in Birmingham. Topics will include intellectual property; social media; agents law; importing/exporting; how to write a press release, and dealing with large retailers.

GA Bespoke Multi-Media Packages The Giftware Association has moved into multi-media, producing a film that showcases the Association's members and products.

Produced and presented by the GA's David Kukadia (left), it features some of the most memorable elements from Spring Fair 2016 and the Gift of the Year Awards ceremony.

“Because the film portrays an exciting, inspiring vision of The Giftware Association and its members – showing what can be achieved through this medium - we are in the process of rolling it out to those who belong to The GA,” David confirms.

Bespoke multi-media packages are being offered to companies, to include the production of promotional videos, as well as website creation and photography. Email david.kukadia@ga-uk.org

GA Survey Smart Feedback gathered from a members’ email survey recently enabled the GA's chief executive Sarah Ward to share respondents views at a meeting at the Bank of England. It was attended by representatives of several trade associations as part of The Genesis Initiative, an umbrella organisation focusing on economic reform to improve the prospects of Britain’s SMEs. The GA's survey questions included the challenges faced by retailers and the growth of internet/online retail; difficulties in recruiting people with appropriate skill sets in mainly management positions; export, and investing in IT.

Hello, Is It Plates You’re Looking For? Singer songwriter Lionel Richie has launched his own homeware range, Lionel Richie Home, including dinnerware and crystal barware. Recognising that homewares design is an unusual career move, Lionel says he was inspired to create his own range after finding the products surrounding him in hotels all around the world lacked charisma. He has confessed that, as a keen home entertainer, his Los Angeles home is a 'showroom' for his range.

PEOPLE ❐ Sheryl Gray (right), an experienced retail manager for the UK and Ireland, has taken on the role of sales agent for Northern Ireland with Apples to Pears. ❐ Enesco has appointed Simon Clarke (below right), who previously worked in the picture framing industry, to the company's sales team to look after both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. ❐ Widdop and Co is continuing to strengthen its sales team with the addition of two new territory managers covering Northern and Southern Ireland.

Ray Browne (right), who will be covering Southern Ireland, has spent over 20 years in the giftware industry working with Carte Blanche, Hallmark and Enesco.

Thomas Welshman (right), who worked for Enesco for 18 years where he was responsible for the Irish market, will be looking after Northern Ireland.

Sadly Missed...

Brian Simmons (below), a founder of Stoneglow Candles sadly passed away on March 28. "Brian had health issues for many years, but few would have known," said his son Perry, md of Stoneglow. "It was only in the last few months that his condition worsened, and it became critical in the last few weeks. He passed peacefully with his family around him."

Brian was one of the founders of Stoneglow Candles and was passionate about the business.

He worked tirelessly as sales manager until recent years, and up until his health prevented him was still at the factory with his wife Rita every day. "He was a popular and familiar face at the exhibitions and made many friends over the years, who we know will be saddened by this news," continued Perry. "He was a warm, funny, kind man who will be sorely missed by all who knew him."

Right: A dinner plate from Lionel Ritchie Home.

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Industry News

Talking Trends

NEWS IN BRIEF

Talking Heads The very latest trends, thousands of cutting edge products, 500 brands and an impressive line up of speakers will be making this May's Pulse, taking place at London's Olympia from May 15-17, an unmissable three day event for buyers looking for the ultimate in inspiration and style, say organisers Clarion Events.

"The show will look distinctive - bold, rebellious, edgy," says show director Louise Wallace. "We will be creating a unique buying experience with everything about the show having an impact. Featuring outstanding emerging talent, unseen products, expert retail and trend insight, Pulse will be an inspiring event with a unique content offering," continues Louise. "Our inspirational ShopTalk seminars are aimed at retailers who don't have that expert support available to them."

An impressive line-up of speakers this year include Liz Sylvester, head of visual identity at Liberty of London, Joa Studholme, international colour consultant for Farrow & Ball, Laura Mullins, buyer and merchandise manager for the Imperial War Museum and Sally Benelow, product director of notonthehighstreet.com Elsewhere, Pulse Unseen will give visitors the opportunity to see a myriad of brand new products with expert curators including interior stylist Sania Pell. "Expert advisers like Sania help to give the show its differentiation," says Louise.

Other show highlights include Raw, for companies that have never exhibited at a trade show and Found featuring international companies that have also never exhibited at a trade show before. "This is the key to helping independents to find products that are different to their competitors," explains Louise.

Elsewhere, other important show areas include Secret Emporium, UAL (University of Arts London at Pulse), Custom Trail, Christmas Trail and New Product Trail.

There will be four key product sectors at the show: Fashion, Living, Launchpad and Expert Pick with key trends helping retailers to shop Autumn/Winter 2016/17 designs: Maximalist (a vivid mix of creativity and craft), Modernist (clean and balanced), Coastal Simplicity (eclectic and rustic) and Memphis (a retro interpretation of '80s Memphis) which have been identified by fashion trend consultant Claire Foster and trend agency Unique Style Platform (USP). (See Trends: Dare To Be Different on page 29). USP will also be launching a further five new lifestyle trends at the show with a series of on-site shop window installations and guides as to where the products are.

Visit www.pulse-london.com Above: Memphis, one of the four key trends at Pulse. Shown are ceramics from Lollipop Designs.

Home & Gift, The Buyers Festival Home & Gift Harrogate, which has been given a new tag line, the Buyers Festival, will be taking place from July 17-20, showcasing 150 new suppliers and thousands of new product launches. "Buyers Festival truly represents the spirit of the show, the first in the second season of the year," says show director Cleere Scammell.

"When it comes to new product, we have thrown a few curved balls," he reveals. "For independents, the focus is on finding something unusual with buyers having the time to make considered purchases. We are always looking at ways to make shopping the show easier for everyone, so there will also be several improvements."

For gift retailers looking for greeting cards, Design Point 5, 20% larger than last year, will be dedicated to greeting cards and stationery.

Elsewhere, among the highlights of the show will the Great Northern Retail Forum, which has been expanded. ● PG&H will also be hosting the magazine's annual Retailer Round Table on Monday July 18 at the Majestic Hotel, with a special Home & Gift Summer Tea Party for attendees. For more information contact suem@max-publishing.co.uk.

Visit: www.homeandgift.co.uk Left: Last year's PG&H Retailer Round Tablers. The event was chaired by PG&H's editor Sue Marks (centre).

❐ The Merrythought teddy bear factory in Ironbridge designed a limited edition collectable teddy bear in celebration of the Queen’s 90th birthday.

Right: The Merrythought 90th birthday bear.

❐ To celebrate its 10th anniversary, children's toy, gift and homeware distributor Scandi-Chic has re-branded to S-c Brands to reflect the changing nature of the business over the last 10 years, and to look to the future. The company recently signed an exclusive UK agreement with Australian company Love Mae. Above: S-c Brands is celebrating its 10th anniversary.

❐ Intricate filigree silver swan napkin holders, created by designer-maker Helen London Silversmithing, won the prestigious GA Award for Excellence at the BCTF show in Harrogate. Stephen Farnan was highly commended for his landscapes captured in porcelain.

Above: GA Award winner Helen London Silversmithing.

❐ With 54 stores and counting, lifestyle retailer Oliver Bonas is expanding its retail remit, with the newest shops in London's Holborn, St Albans and Leeds, with plans to open more shops in the North of England. ❐ The Music Gifts Company has launched an online ordering facility for its trade customers available for both Music Gifts and Element. The combined website can be accessed by visiting www.musicgifts.co.uk and www.elementgifts.com ❐ The Sunday Times Business News ran a Small Business feature on Clare Harris, founder of upmarket partyware company Talking Tables, in its How I Made It column. Clare started the company in 1999 after quitting her job as a sales assistant at Liberty London.

Above: Clare Harris, founder and md of Talking Tables.

❐ The Government has backed down on its move to change Sunday trading hours, with Sajid Javid considering a 12 month trial in 12 different areas of the UK. ❐ Sainsbury's bid of £1.4 bn to purchase Argos, owned by Home Retail Group, has been accepted. It is estimated that some 200 Argos stores could close.

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Industry News

All Change At Creative Tops MD Steps Down After Two Decades After 20 years with tableware company Creative Tops, md Pat Dawson is handing over the reins to Peter Murphy, formerly the company's finance director. Pat says she wants to spend more quality time with her family and to step back to let others take the lead.

A long history with the company, and previous director roles in large US public groups, have given Peter great insight into corporate culture. “I have worked closely with Pat over the years in driving the business forward," states Peter. "I believe that my dedication and experience will lead the company through the challenge of the changing economic climate and ensure the business continues to grow and move forward. I am privileged to be offered this position and relish this opportunity. I am passionate about Creative Tops and have a great respect for the culture and business values that have made it so successful. The company is the people, and we have a tremendous workforce who are dedicated to supplying our customers with quality designed products and excellent customer service."

Peter will be supported by two key people: Ian Ball, commercial director, and Aimee Hodgkins, creative director, who have both been with the business for over 10 years.

Creative Tops, which was established in 1996, has an annual turnover of over £30 million focusing on trend-led, co-ordinated tableware ranges. The company was acquired in 2011 by Lifetime Brands, which established new levels of opportunity and growth for the business. Its branded ranges include Katie Alice, Mikasa and La Cafetière and it also produces collections under licensing agreements with heritage brands Victoria and Albert Museum, National Trust and Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Left: Creative Tops' outgoing md Pat Dawson (centre right), with new md Peter Murphy (left), Ian Ball and Aimee Hodgkins.

Hello Dolly It looks like it’s not just wife Victoria who has an interest in couture!

Unlikely celebrity seamstress David Beckham, who is reported to earn a cool £45m a year, was snapped by his wife stitching dresses for their daughter Harper’s dollies using Apples to Pears’ Make Your Own Ragdoll Gift in a Tin. "Thanks to the Beckham publicity, this nostalgic craft kit containing everything needed to make a pretty ragdoll plus two party dresses and pairs of shoes, has become even more appealing," says the company's marketing executive Fliss Edwards.

Right: The multl-talented David Beckham.

Left: Apples to Pears Make Your Own Ragdoll.

NY NOW Summer Market Registration is open for NY NOW, which will be taking place at the Javits Center, New York, from August 21-24. Collections feature Home, Lifestyle and Handmade, with Handmade running from August 20-23.

"NY NOW’s summer market will heat up New York City this August and give attendees the unique opportunity to experience the industry’s latest trends,” comments Scott Kramer, co-director and vice president, NY NOW. “This summer, we will have an outstanding market experience including countless exclusive product launches and dozens of seminars as well as exciting Only in New York events that attendees won’t experience anywhere else.”

Adds Randi Mohr, co-director and vice president, “NY NOW is the place to be for new and neverbefore-seen products, and this summer we’re expecting an amazing turnout. Approximately one-third of exhibitors participate only in NY NOW, so attendees and buyers are sure to find products that won’t be found anywhere else.”

Buyers who register by May 11 will have the chance to win one of 10 prizes including three Ultimate NY NOW VIP Experiences.

Visit www.nynow.com

Getting Ahead Of The Trends Exclusively Housewares and Exclusively Electrical will be looking ahead to Christmas 2016 and Spring/Summer 2017 this year when they open at the Business Design Centre in London next month (Tuesday 14 June and Wednesday 15 June).

“We know from contact with Exclusively visitors that trade shows are important, not just for finding new suppliers and new products, but also to get an overview of what is being planned for the seasons ahead,” says show director Simon Boyd.

“This year the Exclusively shows are aiming to give buyers a helping hand to search out and recognise on trend’ products focusing particularly on Christmas 2016 and the spring/summer season for 2017.”

Above: Belo Rio Spring/Summer 16 mood board from Scarlett Opus.

The shows will offer visitors a new On Trend display area, free accompanied trend tours around the show floor undertaken by trend forecasters Scarlet Opus, and a series of free quick-fire industry presentations featuring market briefings from leading market research company GfK, John Ryan, the stores editor for Retail Week and Phil Pond of Scarlet Opus, aimed at retailers keen to stay on top of consumer trends and to gain an insight into what their customers will be looking out for in the future.

Exclusively Electrical, launched last year, will again run alongside Exclusively Housewares in the Business Design Centre’s Gallery Hall.

“As two specialist shows we offer a depth and breadth of brands, products and suppliers that is very attractive to a great mix of retailers for whom housewares and SDA products range from the purely functional through to ideal gifts,” comments Simon.

Visit www.exclusivelyhousewares.co.uk or www.exclusivelyelectrical.co.uk.

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Left: John Jackson, md of Retro36 in Scarborough.

Below: Above: Millennials have become the Smartphone generation.

GIFT OF THE

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The Smart Way

To Shop

There can't be many people who haven't heard the word 'Millennials', a buzzword that keeps cropping up to describe a generation of tech savvy individuals in their 20s and 30s who are changing the way goods are bought and sold. Glued to their Smartphones and tablets, they're challenging today's retailers to up their omni-channel game.

John Jackson, md of Retro 36 in Scarborough, takes a look at a unique consumer group who are currently re-shaping retail.

"Millennials will soon be the largest generation since the Baby Boomers.

They’re young, dynamic and about to enter their prime shopping years. Therefore, for a retail business to flourish, owners need to think about how to market to this generation. But Millennials (also known as Generation Y) are a tough group of consumers - probably the most tricky to sell to.

For starters, they're very tech savvy which is deep within their blood. All have Smartphones and computers, and it's second nature to them to do numerous tasks using just their mobile phone, for example, texting using What's App, buying a gift, watching TV, following the news on social media, downloading a new song or taking a photo. In fact, a recent study showed that 87% of Millennials have their phone by their side every second of the day.

All this tech means you have to be in their world to really engage with such a powerful consumer group and this starts with social media. They grew up with it, and many spend more than two hours a day on it, so retailers need to leverage it to the hilt. Hit up the usual suspects: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat. Sponsored ads are also an easy

and effective way to boost your reach.

Before customers even get to your shop they’ll want to find you on their Smartphones first so you need to ensure you appear correctly in search results.

Millennials also spend significant amounts online, so you need a website. If you don’t have an ecommerce website,

you need to start the process as soon as possible. First and foremost, ensure your website is fast. The design should be uncluttered and responsive, allowing it to look professional on desktop, tablet and mobile. The checkout process should be smooth and intuitive. Keeping it simple is the best strategy and will also keep costs down.

Unfortunately, Millennials aren't as loyal to retailers as previous generations, so you'll have to work harder to retain

them as a customer. Also, they have high expectations. So if you want to capture their attention, you have to excite them, such as offering a loyalty card, or they’ll move onto another retailer who will.

It’s also important to personally engage with them in-store. Talk to them, find out their interests and needs. Then you’ll be in a stronger position to sell them things that will enhance their life.

Do that and you’ll be rewarded with repeat custom. They are definitely price orientated, so they’ll almost certainly price check higher ticket purchases. That doesn’t mean you have to be the cheapest, but you do need to be value for money.

Unsurprisingly, social media seems to heavily influence their spending patterns.

They follow what their peers and favourite celebrities are buying more than other social groups. As I said, they’re difficult to sell to. They’re much happier getting advice from a friend rather than from a retailer. But in every challenge, there lies an opportunity.

It's also worth noting that Millennials prefer premium products. They’re not filling their lives with mundane stuff. They want desirable products, which have integrity. This philosophy also holds true for gift giving, especially when it comes to their close family, friends and partners. We’ve noticed men in particular do tend to lavish their partners with decadent gifts on special occasions. So target that!

Finally, Millennials love their brands, whether it’s a coffee shop or a retailer. You therefore need to build your shop brand, but your brand identity and brand message must be consistent. Every touch point of your business needs to communicate the same brand message. There should be a synergy to everything you do, with consistent, well designed branding the key to success in today’s tough retail market.

I can only emphasise, once again, that Millennials are a tricky bunch. But as they’re vital to your business going forward, it's becoming imperative to tap into this dynamic consumer group!"

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MICHAEL WEEDON

SOUNDING OFF

You Win Some, You Lose Some valuations will become much, much more difficult. Then again, if the broad retail formula I've just mentioned is applied there will be nothing to appeal – because all valuations will be pretty much arbitrary.

We must also remember that rates are now devolved within the UK and that Scottish Finance Secretary, John Swinney, announced his own review of non-domestic rates in December. North of the border, premises may pay no government is consulting on rates if the rateable value (RV) that at the moment. Another is below £10,000 and can win? Possibly. benefit from a lower rate up to Revaluations are an RV of £35,000. Called the expensive, so the powers 'Poundage Rate' in Scotland, that be are looking for ways the multiplier for higher RVs is to minimise them. We 51% in 2016/17 as it carries a suggested just ignoring the 1.6% supplement, so above majority of properties as they that level, businesses will pay won’t be paying rates, but more than elsewhere in the UK. that’s not going to happen, There’s something else to although a self-assessment be won as well, now that we system where you do all the Above: Michael Weedon. have most of the answers on work probably is. It might just Above: Chancellor George Osborne. rates for the next few years. also result in another one of our ideas Minds are turning to the other big business being adopted, but in a kind of twisted way question of the day – to Brexit or to that could achieve the opposite of what Bremain. On a simple majority, one or other was intended. campaign is going to win and the other lose.

We said: why not simplify valuation so Surveys and flash 'hands up' votes at that retail rents in an area within a town are business meetings have been convincingly in all assumed to be the same? All you then favour of not changing anything. So, we’ll be need to know is how big the shop is and you asking retailers about that in a vote at the have the valuation. The government is bira High Street Conference on May 11, at currently consulting on this but with a much the Chateau Impney, just six weeks before broader formula, so actually your retail the referendum. Having heard speakers valuation would have nothing at all to do with including MP Chuka Umunna argue their any real rental values whatsoever and it respective cases to the delegates, members would just become a pure business tax will get the chance to practice their voting based on shop area. Is that a win or a niw? skills for June 23. How will that turn out?

Oh, and a separate discussion about You’ll have to be there to find out, but appeals, which the government really, really maybe your preferred side of the argument doesn’t like, looks as though challenges to will come away with a win on the day."

Was the Chancellor's March Budget a winner when it came to Business Rate reforms? Michael Weedon, deputy ceo and communications director of the British Independent Retailers Association (bira) examines, point by point, what bira suggested to the government, and how George Osborne responded.

Plus, should Britain Brexit or Bremain in the EU? The bira High Street conference on May 11 will be giving retailers a chance to have their say.

"Retail has spoken, the government has listened and, in the Budget, the Chancellor told us what he’s going to do about Business Rates in England. Is this a win?

Well, we called for a ragbag of temporary, annually renewable reliefs to be made permanent and simply take about a third of properties out of paying the tax. That we got. Actually what we got was pretty much what we already had - an exempt band for small properties, but fixed, not requiring renewal. Is this a win? A win, yes: although bira had called for the tax to become progressive, without a threshold below which you pay nothing but beyond which you pay in full, rather like the way the personal tax allowance works. We talked to the Treasury about that, but didn’t get it.

Not a win.

We called for a change in the way the tax is cranked up each year by RPI, which is no longer even an official national statistic, switching instead to CPI. This happened! It’s a win... or it will be when it kicks in in 2020.

Why not now? It’s simple Mr Osborne: don’t use that inflation measure use this one. So is this a win? It will be in four years’ time. A win. Eventually.

We said that revaluations should happen more often to keep costs in some kind of relationship with real rents. Three years sounded like a better frequency and the

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Feedback: NATIONAL LIVING WAGE

Paying The

Price

The introduction of the National Living Wage on April 1 has resulted in an emotional outcry from small independents. The rise from £6.70 to £7.20 an hour (for over 25s) represents a significant 7% wage increase something that many small businesses across the board are struggling with.

Rather than being a good move for people working in retail aged over 25, it could see them working less hours or ultimately losing their jobs, with the introduction of the government's compulsory pension scheme also hitting hard.

So will retailers be forced to make redundancies, and to hike up their prices to pass on the increased costs? PG&H spoke to independent gift shops up and down the country for their views.

Huge Repercussions

Above: Bijou, Elgin.

"The whole wage matter is a huge factor for all retailers, including gift and card shops, this year," says David Robertson, md of Bijou in Elgin. "I believe, and indeed know, that many businesses will now cut and keep their staff costs much, much tighter. And this then has further repercussions with holidays, illness etc., as you simply don't have the fat to cover it."

Continues David: "The actual base point is not the issue as such, although it does mean that I will be moving those in my team who are currently being paid above the minimum wage up to this level. My issue is those that have added responsibilities to include key holding, cash handling etc., as they will see their wages rise in line with this. The problem is, that, once again, we are having regulations brought in to give rules to the few while the many suffer."

Above: George Osborne introduced the National Living Wage in his post-election Budget last July.

Below: Dandelion, Chudleigh.

Government Is Clueless "The rise to £7.20 is an immediate cost of £500 to me," says Jo Poke, owner, Dandelion in Chudleigh. "It's chicken feed to bigger retail players but not insignificant to micro business like mine - which is basically me with some very part-time help. I do not want to pass this on to my customers in increased prices so it's basically a £500 pay cut for me. Clearly, the higher the rate goes the worse it gets.

If it does get to £9 I will have to close or re-structure the business, doing away with paid staff. Many micro business owners themselves don't earn the Living Wage. It's ridiculous to pay employees more than one's own hourly rate."

Jo adds that the Chancellor argues that business can cope because he has cut corporation tax and National Insurance. "But this only applies to bigger businesses and is absolutely irrelevant to those that don't operate on that scale," she points out.

"The National Living Wage comes on top of other new costs such as the mandatory Pensions Auto Enrolment.

Another idea that sounds good in theory but turns out to be a costly irrelevance to very small businesses with a few part time assistants. Yes, staff can choose to opt out, but employers still have to go through all the registration and deregistration bureaucracy.

I feel really strongly that this government has not got a clue about the world in which very small businesses operate.

They should re-look at the above schemes and amend them for very small players. For example, businesses with under a certain number of staff, or turnover or annual profit could be excluded or have lower level requirements. I also feel that the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) has not represented micro businesses well on the NLW and pensions."

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Feedback: NATIONAL LIVING WAGE Retail: The Facts

l Retail accounts for over 3 million jobs in the UK. l According to figures from the British Retail Consortium (BRC)

a third of retail jobs - some 900,000 - could be lost by 2025 as a direct result of the new National Living Wage.

Having To Reassess

Too Much Legislation "We have always paid our staff a living wage and given daily bonuses when the takings reach a set, very achievable, figure," states Amanda Oscroft, co-owner of Love It in Stamford and Bury St Edmunds.

"This target not only motivates staff, but ensures we all share the profits on the basis of, if it's good for us it’s good for you too."

Although Amanda says she thinks the minimum wage is a helpful figure for most in the retail industry she nevertheless thinks there's too much bureaucracy and legislation in society today, especially for small businesses.

"The introduction of the pensions for employees scheme, coinciding with the removal this year of business rate relief, has made me think twice about taking on more staff," she states. "The extra paperwork alone is a burden, never mind the additional expense. The minimum wage increase could force some businesses to remove incentives/bonuses and to even introduce a zero hour contract. I feel those would not be in the employees interest and cost them more in the long term than a few pence per hour on their hourly rate."

Above: Love It, Stamford and Bury St Edmunds.

First Off The Mark Lifestyle retailer Oliver Bonas, which employs over 500 people across 54 shops - rising to more than 650 over the Christmas period - made retail 'history' last year by becoming the first high street chain in Britain to pay staff an independently calculated living wage.

Employees aged 18 and over are currently getting paid a minimum of £7.85 an hour, or £9.15 in London. (This compared with the national minimum wage at the time of £6.50 an hour for over-21s and £5.30 for workers between 18 and 21).

"We want to do everything we can to pay our team at Oliver Bonas a wage that reflects their hard work and loyalty - and the ‘real’ cost of living, and it is exciting to be the first retailer on the high street to make this commitment," commented Oliver Tress, founder and md of Oliver Bonas last Autumn.

"This is a direct result of the hard work of our team, helping us to grow the business at a good, steady pace over the last 20 or so years. We hope it also encourages more people to come and work with us in the future."

Left: Oliver Tress, founder and md of Oliver Bonas.

"Having run our business for 16 years, and employed over 50 people, we have always found it interesting that you cannot discriminate on age yet you can discriminate on the rate of pay," points out Sara Park-Patterson, area manager at Bluestone Gift Shops in Largs, Barrhead and Lochgilphead.

"As we employ many students working part time hours, as well as older members of staff, their responsibilities are practically identical and we have generally paid these employees the same hourly rate. However, with the introduction of the new National Living Wage, we have made a decision not to pay this to our under 20s as we feel the amount we pay this age group is already substantially above the statutory minimum wage." confirms Sara.

"Although we believe everyone should be paid equally for doing the same job, we have had to reassess our pay based on this new legislation. I would be concerned that, for some smaller businesses who feel they cannot afford to pay this new National Living Wage, they will be more inclined to employ younger age groups or, indeed, put the hours in themselves. On the other hand, we would certainly not begrudge the National Living Wage to our employees that fall into this category.

Above: Bluestone Gift Shop.

“They are essentially the face of our business and we will always value that. Overall, we feel this change is not achieving the aim as we know some larger companies are simply cutting back on overtime and total weekly hours, with individuals now working less and ultimately no better off."

What The National Living Wage Means l In his summer Budget last July, Chancellor George Osborne

surprised many by announcing that the minimum amount employers must pay staff aged over 25 was to rise to £7.20 an hour from April 1. l The figure will climb to £9 by 2020, with the measure part of the government's strategy to boost productivity, remodelling Britain as a “higher wage, lower tax and lower welfare” country. l All workers in the UK aged over 25 (excluding those on an apprenticeship scheme) are legally entitled to earn £7.20 an hour, an increase of 50p an hour on the previous national minimum wage.

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TRENDS: MAXIMALIST

Dare To Be Different When cutting edge lifestyle show Pulse opens its doors at London's Olympia from May 15-17, trends for Autumn/Winter 2016/17 will be at the forefront, with products that inspire shopping the show across all product sectors.

PG&H puts the spotlight on Maximalist - exotic, vibrant, lavish, global and eclectic - a vivid mix of creativity and craft. World travel has inspired prints to include clashing decorative florals, as well as Moroccan influenced geometrics and Indian paisleys.

So who will be showcasing what at Pulse?

Left: Modern floral vases from Chive.

Above right: Cute Fashionista's Birds On The Moon square silk scarf.

Right: A contemporary framed print from Mariscotti Art. Below: Striking silk patterned cushions from Lindsay & Yoshi.

Above: Colourful throws from Tweemill Textiles.

Below: Turkish inspired handmade jewellery from Ottoman Hands.

Right: Poly-jungle, a graphic clock design from Natasha Troy.

Below: Bohemia's exotic vintage wool pots.

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The LarGesT CoLLeCTioN of Greeting Card Publishers iN The WorLD “PG Live is a great opportunity to check out new designs and new artists in an intimate and relaxed environment. Fabulous lunch too!”

Jane Chandler, director, M&P Cards/Occasions Cards and Gifts.

Focus On Cards

With free refreshments, lunch and opening night party, you’re free to focus on the cards.

Book Now!

Book your free tickets immediately to receive your copy of the exclusive 2016 show Preview.

We’ll See You There!

PG Live 2016 is dedicated to celebrating and showcasing the fabulous hub of creativity that is the international greeting card industry. With 250+ fabulous publishers, artists and designers launching thousands of new lines, can you afford to miss out?

PG Live 2016 Tuesday 10 - Wednesday 11 May Business Design Centre, London

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Book Your Ticket Now! +44 (0) 1635 297070 @PGLiveLondon www.progressivegreetingslive.com

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Greetings!

The innovative world of greeting cards is about to be brought to life at PG Live 2016, with a myriad of publishers making the most of the opportunity to showcase their new ranges and promotions.

With more and more gift shops relying on greeting cards that are a cut above the rest to boost sales, the Springboard sector offers a wealth of new talent!

The 2016 show, which takes place on May 1011 at the Business Design Centre in London's trendy Islington, will once again offer a relaxed enjoyable opportunity for buyers, so if greeting cards are helping to boost your bottom line - as recently revealed in the latest PG&H Retail Barometer - don't hesitate to put the date in your diary!

As the only trade show dedicated to the global greetings industry, Progressive Greetings Live offers an unmissable opportunity for buyers to see the latest designs and launches from across the international greetings community.

The show is the launchpad for a myriad of exciting new collections, publishers and artists, the place to source fresh product and find exciting new names.

The friendly, supportive atmosphere is an essential part of the show's appeal, as Warren Lomax, joint show director, explains: “Each year, we are honoured to be able to

Below: A warm welcome await visitors to PG Live 2016.

Bottom: Having a bit of a giggle and a glass of bubbly, visitors having fun at last year's show.

Show Essentials Dates: Tuesday 10 and Wednesday 11 May, 2016 Venue: Business Design Centre, London Tel: +44 (0) 1635 297070 E-mail: warren@progressivegreetingslive.com Web: www.progressivegreetingslive.com Visitor Registration: www.progressivegreetingslive.com

bring so many card suppliers and buyers together under one roof, but we couldn't do it without the support of this fantastic industry. It's a pleasure to work with some of the most creative and passionate people in the business, and we are incredibly excited about this year's show," he enthuses. "Not only do we have more publishers exhibiting than ever before, but there will also be fabulous offers, key launches and more than a few surprises in store!"

With over 250 exhibitors, May's show is the biggest in PG Live's history - a complete

sell-out in fact - with over 100 publishers exclusive to PG Live. These include UK Greetings, Gemma, Emotional Rescue, Cardmix, Paperlink and Icon Arts, with design-led publishers Really Good, Janie Wilson, Lagom, Stop The Clock and U Studios either returning to the show or exhibiting for the first time.

From an independent retailer's perspective - those looking for cards that are outside the box - there will be plenty of new and emerging talent in Springboard, which has been the starting point for many a successful publisher over the past eight years.

Among the newcomers will be Ros Jones, the owner of gift shop Celtic Company in Welshpool, who has teamed up with a childhood friend, Vivien Thomas, to launch Alff a Bet, with Ros and Vivien debuting at PG Live's Artists’ Quarter.

Calling All Greats Winners And Finalists Greats winners and finalists are cordially invited to clink glasses at a pre-lunch 'bubbly' party on both days of the show.

It will be held in the Wall of Fame bay in the top right hand corner of the Gallery level of the show area between 12.45 - 1.15pm on Tuesday May 10 and Wednesday May 11.

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Celebrating

10 Successful

Years!

Our Henry Award winning range is celebrating its 10th Anniversary!

COME AND SEE US AT PG

LIVE 2016, STAND 221

For more information contact:

Nigel Quiney Publications, Cloudesley House, Shire Hill, Saffron Walden, Essex, CB11 3FB Tel: 01799 520200 Fax: 01799 520100 www.nigelquiney.com

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Did You Know...? l The UK greeting card market is widely recognised as a world leaders

in greeting card design and publishing and is worth £1.6bn. l It is the highest per capita greetings card market in the world. l The average person exchanges 31 cards a year.

(Source: GCA)

Left: A PG Live exclusive offer from Fedrigoni: octagon kaleidoscope pendants made out of paper.

Below: Roy's Boys socks are up for grabs on Loewe's stand.

Below middle: Pippi & Me is inviting PG Live visitors to take part in an exclusive show competition.

Below right: Among the latest Love Candy designs.

"On the first day of the show in 2015, we placed nine orders in the first two hours, four of them with new suppliers in the Springboard section," confirms Denise Laird, owner of Spirito in Glasgow. Meanwhile, at the other end of the country, Louise Heyler-Prydderch, owner of Forget Me Not in Stubbington, says she sets out to try to find at least two new publishers at every PG Live show. "However last year, I found three, and placed orders with Bluebell 33, Inspired Goodbyes and Hammond Gower. I always find PG Live extremely enjoyable to visit."

The impressive line-up of exhibitors is also a testament to the quality of buyers, with a number of leading publishers - to include UK Greetings, Gemma, CardMix, Paperlink and Icon - choosing to make PG Live their only trade show of the year.

As Warren Lomax highlights, "with so much going on, everyone has the opportunity to get involved, make great business contacts, and - most importantly of all - have fun!"

Where To Find The Best Promotions

l PG Live exhibitor Fedrigoni UK has teamed up with Pia Wustenburg of Utopia and Utility to produce 30 one off, limited edition processed Fedrigoni paper pendants exclusively for PG Live 2016. Worth £60 each, 10 necklaces have been gifted to Greats and Retas winners and finalists attending the pre-lunch drinks reception on Tuesday May 10. l To promote their colourful, polka dot Roy's Boys odd sock ranges, Lowe's will be doing a sock swap on its stand. Visitors who want to walk around sporting the company's dotty socks will be invited to trade in the socks they are wearing for a pair of the brand's colourful funky designs. l Pippi & Me will be running a competition on the company's stand in the Springboard area. Prizes include giclee prints and tiny handmade felt teddies.

Winners will also reap the benefit of having free cards added to their order. l On the Love Candy stand, a prize draw will be held, with the winner receiving a goody bag worth £65.

PG Live At A Glance Springboard@ PG Live Springboard@ PG Live is dedicated to fanfaring new and emerging publishers and is a 'must visit' sector of PG Live for independents looking for a point of difference.

Artists' Quarter A group of talented artists, creative designers and agents will be based in the Artists' Quarter all presenting their latest creations. Portfolios are going to be jam-packed with fresh new works.

Join Us For Lunch Well known for its generous hospitality, PG Live is one of the friendliest, most relaxed shows on the calendar offering a free two course lunch and free teas and coffees throughout the show.

Come To Our Drinks Party Everyone attending PG Live on Tuesday May 10 is invited the show's fantastic free post-show industry party - a chance to let your hair down - and network, network, network!

Send A Birthday Card To The Queen A stunning feature at PG Live this year will be an array of specially designed and signed greeting cards to mark the Queen's 90th birthday. Following the show, cards will be delivered to Her Majesty at Buckingham Palace.

l New to trade shows, Jelly Armchair will be running interactive competitions with prizes including illustrated tote bags. Games will include 'guess the pun'.

Below: Jelly Armchair's popular green avocado design.

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our

exclusive wedding range

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Spotlight On... Wedding Gifts

L ve If you thought weddings were all about the bride and groom then think again! When it comes to gifts, it's as much about the wedding party as the new Mr and Mrs, with everyone from the best man and the bridesmaids, to parents and parents-in-law in line for a little something to say 'thank you', not to mention sorting out favours for the guests!

So who is buying what for whom? PG&H got all glammed up, and walked down the gift aisle to discover what's trending.

As the new Mr and Mrs to-be get ready to celebrate their Big Day, there's a flurry of excitement about not only what to buy for them, but also, in regard to the happy couple themselves making a rather long list of who they want to buy thank you presents for.

There's their parents of course, their bridesmaids, maids of honour, flower girls, ushers and best man. And from the gift industry's perspective, there are a wealth of practical, decorative, humorous and personalised items that fit the bill, with keepsake gifts very much in mind.

"It seems that more people than ever are cohabiting before they get married, so in store wedding lists, or traditional wedding gifts, are less popular, with many requests now being made for money or vouchers towards honeymoons or major home renovations," comments Helen Shield, director of marketing at Enesco.

"However, experience tells us that wedding guests still want to give a gift alongside a voucher, so sales of our wedding themed mugs and wine glasses are stronger than ever, with humour a key element. We're also seeing a fairly unique pattern with our Willow Tree collection, with both the Together and Promise figurines our

top sellers over the past 15 years."

At Dartington, Richard Halliday, marketing and design director, says that weddings remain a well defined target market for crystal and glassware from the wine glasses and tabletop product on the bridal gift list through to the gifts given to bridesmaids, the best man and others on the big day. "Although more and more couples now have homes established prior to getting married, guests still like to give them something practical, and a clear crystal vase or accessory piece is a popular and safe choice too."

Tableware too, remains a much appreciated gift. "Gifts are such an important part of a wedding, yet what

Above: Dartington's Sharon champagne flutes.

Below left: Willow Tree’s Together, from Enesco.

Below: Widdop and Co's Coton Colors.

Bottom: Lesser & Pavey's new Mad Dots collection.

to buy can often be a difficult dilemma for those attending as guests," comments Julian Hunt, md of Lesser & Pavey. "Our new range of Mad Dots wedding gifts offer fun items while presenting attractive giftware and packaging for the bride and groom, reminding the couple of their special day," he highlights. "We also offer practical gifts that the couple can enjoy for years to come, such as our new Cream Kitchen collection."

Steve Davies, md of Joe Davies, adds that wedding gifts have always been a Spring/Summer staple for gift retailers.

"Recently, sales have boomed thanks to the 'Mr & Mrs' trend for wedding day accessories and home decor items," confirms Steve. "In line with this, our range has expanded to include gifts as diverse as cushions, mugs, amusing signs, egg cups and vases, while at the core are the more permanent keepsake gifts such as frames, photo albums and guest books."

As Sue Grant, marketing manager at Widdop & Co points out, in addition to gifts Progressive Gifts & Home Worldwide

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Wedding

WIDDOP and Co is the home of sentiment giftware with every occasion covered. For the wedding season select from over 700 lines, all designed by our in house UK - based design team.

0161 688 1226 sales@widdop.co.uk www.widdop.co.uk 36_GH_May 2016.indd 1

To find out more about our wedding collections contact our customer service team.

Widdop and Co, Broadgate, Broadway Business Park, Chadderton, Oldham, OL9 9XE

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Spotlight On... Wedding Gifts for the bridesmaids. "Newlywed couple items are continuing to be strong for us, such as our mug set and champagne set, and, as always, keepsake tins remain our best sellers, where we have added in a new keepsake card tin."

Of course, personalisation remains a massive trend for weddings. "Guests are looking for something thoughtful, unusual and memorable, so a personalised gift ticks all the boxes," says Dominique Fracasso-Stroud, director of La De Da Living. for the couple - photo frames, keepsake boxes and mugs, alongside cufflinks, hip flasks, special keepsake ornaments and jewellery trinket boxes for the bridesmaids and ushers etc - there is also a big market for decorative items that are suitable for use on the actual wedding day. "These include plaques, decorative items for the table and candle and tealight holders," she comments.

Really Good/Soul too, is seeing a surge in gifts for the wedding party this year, especially

What's Trending "Metallics are currently big in the gift industry with the trend definitely a part of the wedding scene," says Gaeltag director Lorena Golfetto. "No matter the venue or theme, designers say rose gold and coppery tones, for example, are showing up on everything from rings to wedding décor and accessories.

"The softer effect of the new metallics is a trend we’ve incorporated in one of our new gift glassware ranges launched under the Here’s to You branding, with foil finish typography on our Emma Kate &Co. glasses and packaging which includes four designs that are perfect for weddings."

Clare Davis, founder of Clare Davis London, says that the explosion of big bright colours on last year's catwalk have also translated to this year's trend for the bridal season with colours that include Hot Pink, Canary Yellow and Warm Orange. "Metallics are also making a big impression this year, with rose and copper way out in front, catching up with gold," she agrees. "They're trending through from cakes with edible gold foil on, through to hand applied detail of rose coloured crystals on the bottom of the bride's dress, with the metallic trend inspiring us to produce a stunning new range of foils for our popular champagne flutes, teamed with a Hot Pink glass."

For those brides who prefer a more traditional theme, Sam Green, md of Retreat Home, says that white and silver remain a popular choice. "Many couples choose to have a small, intimate wedding ceremony and breakfast which then develops into a large evening party, where we're strong in smaller gifts for evening guests."

Widdop & Co's marketing manager Sue Grant adds that weddings often see the colour scheme reflected in the choice of gift. "Soft cream neutrals have been a mainstay of many a wedding collection, although we are now seeing the influence of rustic, country style weddings, with the introduction of limed wood finishes in a delicate mushroom and blush pink colourings."

Far left: Among Really Good’s keepsake wedding tins.

Above: Personalised wedding gifts from Signature Gifts.

Left: La De Da Living's Mr and Mrs candle.

Bottom: Wedding gift ideas from Gisela Graham.

Also seeing a strong market for personalisation is Dartington. "Dartington tankards, tumblers, vases and bowls all make a lovely memento of the couple’s happy day when engraved with a chosen message," says Richard Halliday, marketing and design director. “Personalised favour gifts for guests is a big thing too."

At Signature Gifts, Kat Grant, trade marketing communications administrator, says that couples planning their wedding are looking for something extra special to set them apart from the crowd - which is what their guests want to do too. "Our personalised wedding gifts are an ideal way for guests to go the extra mile," she comments.

Interestingly, Piers Croke, sales director at Gisela Graham, says that budgets for weddings are getting bigger. "But there are still some tasty crumbs left over for the trimmings such as small bridesmaid gifts, table decorations, pretty labels for wedding gifts, knickknacks for the wedding feast and fake flowers for table decoration," he states. "We design a lot our wedding products with the aim of being fun, pretty, sweet and on the tasteful style of sentimental."

With summer still the most popular time of year for weddings - and June the big month for saying "I do" - for gift shops looking to up the ante over the coming months, a bridal gifts table might be just the thing!

Top: Gaeltag's Emma Kate &Co. collection features images by leading card publishers to include these metallic flutes designed

by Emma Kafe Co. Above: On trend pink and metallic champagne flutes from Clare Davis London.

Left: Romantic bottle stoppers from Retreat Home.

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Spotlight On... Home Fragrancing

Fragrant Days Of Summer Florals, citrus and fruits are, once again, the front runners when it comes to fragrancing homes over the summer months, with citronella keeping bugs at bay for outdoor entertaining. As for colour, think pastels. But that's not all that's trending, as PG&H discovered.

"Summer fragrances and colours capture the essence of the next few months with summer fruits and berries combining with evocative floral fragrances," says Sue Grant, marketing manager at Widdop & Co. "New blends for summer include the Colonial triple fragrance glass jar, which encompasses three fragrances in one candle which changes as the wax burns down the jar.

Sugared Lemon, Strawberry and Berry Vine is just one of the mouth-watering combinations!"

Fruit and floral fragrances are also very on-trend for Xystos this summer, alongside emotive rather than specific scents, as well as pastel soft colour palettes. Director Tom Sykes highlights WoodWick’s new Boudoir

Collection, which features six scents that include Quiet Bliss, featuring white plum, jasmine and rose, and Terrace Breeze, designed to evoke the fragrance of a secret terrace. Meanwhile, Tom says that consumers are continuing to enjoy HearthWick from WoodWick which is encouraging repeat business for retailers.

"Customers love the vessels, while the crackling wick gives the collection a unique selling point," he states.

"This year sees an evolution from 2015 rather than a revolution," says Laurence Whiting, national sales manager at Price's Candles. "There's still a large focus on pastel colours and, as always with the summer months, light and sharp floral and citrus fragrances to refresh the home.

Tapping into this, in our new large jar range, we have lavender and lemongrass as a great example of evolving fragrances from last year, with the addition of lemongrass to create extra intrigue."

Top: New summer fragrance from Colonial distributed by Widdop & Co. Above: Ashleigh & Burwood's Water Lily fragrance.

Left: Prices new Lavender Lemongrass candle jar.

Below left: The new WoodWick Boudoir collection distributed by Xystos.

Ashleigh & Burwod's marketing manager Deborah Bettinson says that fragrances that have refreshing tendencies, such as the company's Water Lily, Sea Spray and Mojito, are also at the fore of fragrance trends this season. "Pale pink and baby blue work exceptionally well for the summer season and transfer well into the vintage story," comments Deborah. "The pastel tones of our Simply Ceramic fragrance lamps and diffusers, combined with their vintage styling, are hitting the right note, adding simple, seasonal accent colours to the home."

David Cree, sales manager at Joe Davies, agrees that the trend for floral designs and scents remains as strong as ever, with the company's Fragrant Petal Progressive Gifts & Home Worldwide

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Electric Melt Burners

Flame & Fragrance

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For more info, contact our Customer Service Team Email: sales@xystos.co.uk or call 0191 499 1570 www.xystostrade.co.uk

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Spotlight On... Home Fragrancing collection available in a wide variety of designs and practical uses." "Packaging is key for fragrance products," states David. "As well as adding value it’s important that customers have access to the scent and want to pick it up, especially when the item is a gift."

The Country Candle Company meanwhile is focusing on fresh, relaxing stimulating fragrances for the summer months. "Our new Simply Natural collection of soy wax candles, with their understated design and subtle fragrances, has a slightly nostalgic feel, brought up to date with the choice of tin, vintage tumbler, reed diffuser,

Left: Joe Davies' Fragrant Petal collection comes in Lavender, Rose, Petals of Spring and Peony.

Right: Among the summer fragrances from Best Kept Secrets.

Below left: The Country Candle Company's Fragrant Orchard range.

Below middle: Yankee Candle's Riviera Escape collection.

Below right: Di Palomo's Orange Blossom.

introduces four new fragrances of sea breezes, fruits and herbal notes while our Mediterranean colour palette features orange and blues which complement the contemporary chic scents," says Yankee's brand marketing director for EMEA Hannah Jenkins. She also highlights the company's accessories. "They are versatile, with the bright multi-coloured mosaic collection bringing the summer indoors, or creating a warm ambience for alfresco evening entertaining."

As Denise Edwards, director, Best Kept Secrets, says: "The summer months, bring their own natural fragrances with a spike in fruit fragrances and floral scent offerings remaining strong this year. ‘We’ve certainly seen some interesting scent combinations, and at Best Kept Secrets we have had an excellent response to combinations such as lime, cardamom and ginger and ylang, bergamot and rose.’’

"Retailers often believe the home fragrance category is focused on the

reed refill and wax melts," says Christine Parsons, customer services manager. "With fragrances such as Sicilian Lemon and Sloe Gin and Rosehip, the natural theme is maintained throughout. Packaging is restrained and minimalist, allowing the fragrances to be the stars of the show."

Yankee Candle meanwhile, is celebrating the summer by capturing the scent of the Riviera. "Our new collection, Riviera Escape,

second half of the year, but we're finding that sales in this sector are now becoming less seasonal and providing strong, year round revenue," highlights Rob Tyler, sales director, Di Palomo. "However, to achieve this, a great deal of attention needs to be paid to fragrance selection and packaging style, with the summer months calling for fresh, vibrant graphics coupled with clean feel good fragrances, bringing to mind

memories of long evenings, summer holidays and great weekends!"

Adds Rob: "With such a wide choice of products and brands now available, consumers are becoming more demanding. Brands that offer a complete home fragrance solution including matching diffusers, sprays Continued on page 43

Technology Trends At Heart of the Country, technology and fragrance have come together in the form of Mr&Mrs Fragrance diffusers, George and Sissi. "Mr&Mrs Fragrance diffusers are unique, as the fragrances are provided by interchangeable capsules," explains Heart of the Country's md Ben Stubbs. "Both George and Sissi work by cool air being blown through the diffuser and capsule, producing fragranced air. The capsule driven system requires no mixing of liquids or dripping of oils, just the very straightforward changing of a capsule which can be stored and reused over and over again. " Ashleigh & Burwood too, is seeing technology continuing to play a part in the evolution of home fragrance. "We’ve added to the amora range and evolved the scent hub collection to include two new petite designs, with USB connection, that are ideal for smaller spaces such as desk tops and bedside tables," highlights marketing manager Deborah Bettinson.

Right: Mr&Mrs from Heart of the Country Left: Ashleigh & Burwood's amora.

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PRE-ORDERS AVAILABLE NOW

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Spotlight On... Home Fragrancing and candles, will encourage loyalty, as customers are able to create a signature fragrance throughout the home. But above all, quality is the key to success."

At The Classic Candle Company, Richard Walking says that 2016 will continue to be a period for cautious buyers and price conscious consumers. "Classic Candle is aiming at un-tapped niche markets this year to boost exposure," he comments.

"Fragrance evolves, products evolve, and consumers evolve, so it is important as a manufacturer to meet with the demands of all of these challenges. Our white wax offering emits more light, and fits with any décor, something customers are becoming more aware of when choosing their home fragrance products."

Bringing The Outside In Few would disagree that summer is all about fragrance, and at Root Candles, ceo Steve Senior says that vibrant colours are a must for any room. "At Root Candles, we believe in bringing the outdoors in with our clean burning All Natural Beeswax Blend. The candles are coloured with vegetable dyes and fragranced with essential oils to give that true to life fragrance."

Top left: The new counter top display unit from Classic Candle Company featuring minilights.

Above: Bolsius' Citronella Garden.

Left: Wild Strawberry from Root Candles.

Below: Wax Lyrical's outdoor citronella collection.

Keeping It Natural "There's a real trend towards anything that is natural at the moment," says Hazel Simmons of Stoneglow, "with our botanical candles and reed diffusers fulfilling this brief."

New for Spring/Summer 16 in the company's botanical tumbler range is Hyacinth, with a striking blue flower, and a fragrance of hyacinth blooms laced with fresh green accords and a soft woody base.

Continues Hazel: "Moving up a price bracket are our Nature’s Gift Botanical candles and reed diffusers, with Night Scented Stock a new fragrance in the range featuring pink, white and blue flowers in both candles and reed diffusers. Plus, our new Modern Classics fragrance is also proving to be a very popular new addition. The pretty blue packaging makes it a good colour to feature in store for Spring/Summer, while the unusual salty, oceanic fragrance captures the imagination."

Above: Stoneglow's night scented Stock candle and reed.

At Bolsius, Richard Wood, sales director, UK and Ireland, says that, from drinking a cup of tea in the morning to relaxing in the evening and at weekends, this is the season that home fragrance goes outside.

"Blending a mixture of citronella and herbs together to form a relaxing range of outdoor jar candles and tealights, our citronella range helps to balance the environment with the soothing fragrance of Lemongrass, Rosemary or Basil. While nostalgic floral fragrances are obvious choices, from lilac blossom to velvet rose, more exotic choices help to lift the mood and evoke memories of holidays, such as our Tropic Cool Down and Sunny Beach, part of

Scented Showpieces "As consumer sophistication grows, home fragrancing has taken on a creative turn as candles become decorative pieces," says Helen Shield, marketing director at Enesco. "The powder box candle scented in Honeysuckle is the key fragrance in our Himalayan Candle collection, a reproduction of an old fashioned powder puff pot. It's a gently silvered general store jar with its nostalgic styling reminiscent of old time sweet jars. If possible, the retailer should light a candle and allow the fragrance to fill their shop."

Creating individual fragrances is also a growing trend. "Consumers like to experiment with our fragrances and opt for scents they can change regularly," says Hannah Jenkins, Yankee Candle's brand marketing director for EMEA. "Our stylish Scenterpiece allows consumers to enjoy their favourite fragrances with a decorative home accessory, which provides the option of changing fragrances within seconds."

Above: Honeysuckle, the key fragrance in Enesco's Himalayan Candle collection which is new to the UK this year.

Left: Yankee Candle's Rosa Scenterpiece.

our The Aromatic range. Meanwhile, new for summer is the Creations starter set, which comes complete with a ceramic burner and six melts."

Joanne Barber, md at Wax Lyrical, says that with the Rio Olympics and Euro 2016 on their way this summer, outdoor entertaining is set to be more popular than ever, with tropical scents very much on trend. "It's why we’ve introduced our fruity Fresh Coconut in the Made in England range and the citrus Lemon and Lime in our Colony Collection," she explains. "And with so many outdoor events taking place, our citronella range of candles will be showcasing the bright colours of summer in both design and wax colour."

Continued on page 45

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Spotlight On... Home Fragrancing

Adds Joanne: "Consumers are also wanting bigger and better, so we’ve introduced a 200ml reed diffusers into our RHS Fragrant Garden range and a supersize 500ml luxury reed diffusers in the Fired Earth collection."

Bex Hewetson, marketing director at Beefayre points out that it's important that packaging captures the essence of the fragrance. "Our Bee Garden Collection has a new addition with the Bee Outdoors citronella candle which has a zesty green stripe and flower design. It's eye-catching, fresh and denotes the lemon grass aroma of the citronella. It also has a packet

of wildflower seeds in it which makes it a unique gift that clearly communicates the bee conservation message while adding value."

Following the success of Paddywax’s Boheme collection, distributed by Fragrance Lounge, the company has launched Botany, a range of botanical inspired fragrances hand-poured into tapered ceramic pots which can be used for decorative storage once the candle’s life is over.

"Travel is also key this time of year and Paddywax’s Vagabond collection is inspired by the thrill of adventure and exciting destinations with evocative scents, iconic landmark designs and travel quotes from Aesop to Confucius," comments Rachel Parker, marketing manager.

Above: Bee Outdoors from Beefayre.

Below: Paddywax's Botany, distributed by the Fragrance Lounge.

Other Trends To Look Out For l "Ceramics are going to be big in the home fragrance market," predicts Hazel Simmons, head of design and product development at Stoneglow.

"July sees the launch of our new collaboration with Harlequin, which will feature a brand new collection of smooth white ceramic candles and reed diffusers with a contrasting glazed colour inner." l "Wax melts are becoming increasingly popular, providing a sophisticated alternative to the candle," says Christine Parsons, customer services manager at The Country Candle Company. "They can be used with an ever growing choice of melt warmer which gives the customer even more design control within the home. The melts also offer the customer the opportunity to combine fragrances as they wish, to bring their own fragrance choice into play, further expressing their individuality."

l "The Caption range of fragranced sticks from EnviroScent is an effective way for gift retailers to keep their customers coming back for fragrance gifts in the summer months, when evenings are light and candles aren’t as popular as in the winter months," says Tamara Left: White Orchid Caption fragrance sticks.

Right: A gift 'bundle' from Best Kept Secrets.

Below: A sentiment candle from La De Da Living.

Maximising Sales "Displays are everything! Over 60% of sales in a gift shop come from displays, so the better a display the greater the sales." Steve Senior, ceo, Root Candles l "If the consumer can smell the fragrances when they walk in the shop, it’s the strongest initial attraction.

Samples in use on the shop floor are really important." Laurence Whiting, national sales manager, Price's l "Retailers can maximise the sale of candles by not only having them in the windows but also by placing them near the till. A dedicated stand for a brand helps sell-through." Tom Sykes, director, Xystos l "In addition to the candle purchase, holders and accessories are important in increasing the average basket spend."

Sue Grant, marketing manager, Widdop & Co l "In store displays that bring together gifts of different types to a central display can work really well to highlight a seasonal colour trend and help with sales across different product types."

Deborah Bettinson, marketing manager, Ashleigh & Burwood. l Consumers have become brand-led, so it's important to ensure that the brand is promoted in store." Hazel Simons, head of design and product development, Stoneglow l "Always have a candle out of its box so that customers can smell it easily.

Also, keep the display open so that people can help themselves."

Dominique Fracasso-Stroud, director, La De Da Living

Kullback, VP International. The paper sticks are infused with natural oils and fragrances to release fragrance at a constant level for 30 days. l At La De Da Living, the company offers a three-inone candle gift. As director Dominique Fracasso-Stroud points out, "our range of scented candles combine a candle, gift and sentiment in a gift box."

"Consumers have definitely taken an interest in gift combinations, whereby a fragranced gift product is combined with another item and sold as a gift bundle," highlights Denise Edwards, director, Best Kept Secrets. "This is particularly common when looking at smaller items like cosmetic jewellery or beauty products combined with a fragranced product to make a more substantial gift."

Progressive Gifts & Home Worldwide

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Explore our 3 new fragrances, that evoke memories of a perfect summer’s day Sunnych bea

Love inair the

Tropicldown coo

T +44 (0)800 169 5126 sales@uk.bolsius.com www.bolsiusaromatic.com

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Spotlight On... Bath & Body

Body Beautiful Delicious looking and smelling bath and body products - for men as well as women - are a growing sector for gift and lifestyle shops, often bought as an impulse gift or selfpurchase, not just at Christmas, but all year round.

As suppliers agree, what sets these products apart is distinctive, eye-catching packaging and lovely fragrances, with more and more companies supplying retailers with attractive PoS material to up the display ante.

So what will be packing a punch this summer?

Once, the festive season was the sales spike for bath and body products, but not any more. Today, with beauty salons and nail spas on every high street, it's all about investing in those extra special pamper products that add a feelgood factor, whether for personal use or as a gift.

As always, it's the packaging that often catches the eye first, with Spring/Summer themes currently hitting the shelves. "Pretty, soft pastel colours are making a comeback," highlights Amanda Pullen, marketing, PR & business development manager at Heathcote & Ivory.

"Designs are intricate and delicate, using gentle tones in contrast to the bold colours seen this time last year. To tie in with the trend, we have launched Blush Rose and Accessorize Beauty collections. Both have fresh, classic imagery and a complementary patterned background design. While packaging is key to consumers lifting the product off the shelf, appealing fragrances complete the sale. Consumers welcome the opportunity to be able to sample the scent before committing to the purchase," she adds.

As David Cree, sales manager at Joe Davies puts it: "The strength of any collection is ensuring you marry a great product with exceptional packaging. An example is our latest offer in partnership with Rose & Co. The range of soaps, bath melts, bath bombs, hand creams and lip gloss are all from the Patisserie de Bain and No 84 collections, with presentation

received. Also, with stand-out packaging and several products within a range, shop displays can become eye-catching and coordinated."

Fragrance, of course, is a parallel sales driver. "With the summer months ahead, the bath and body category will be turning its focus to fragrance, shower and body moisturising products," says Rob Tyler, sales director at Di Palomo. "These are more likely to be bought as individual items rather than

key with this type of item." Adds David: "Retailers who produce interesting displays achieve better sales, so to make this as easy as possible we offer the range with a substantial metal display stand free of charge."

Alice Hughes, marketing and PR assistant at Wild & Wolf, concurs that when it comes to gifts, the packaging is a huge aspect in influencing the first impressions of a product. "Bath and body gifts are especially affected by packaging," she continues. "Anyone could purchase a shower gel as a gift, but if a shower gel is packaged well, and presented as a gift, then it will clearly be better Top right: Fruit Fix, a new range from NPW featuring fun, colourful beauty products with luxury ingredients.

Above: Rose & Co.'s Patisserie de Bain collection is available from Joe Davies.

Above right: Di Palomo's Black Cherry collection launched in April.

Right: The Naked Bee Travel Kit. The collection ranges from shampoo to foot balm.

Left: Heathcote & Ivory's Vintage & Co. Patterns & Petals lip butter.

gift sets at this time of year, so retailers need to offer a good selection of high quality products suitable for both gift and self-indulgent treats."

He says that over the coming months, lighter, fresh fragrances, soothing shower gels and body moisturisers, as well as hand creams that contain sun protection, all work well for retailers.

Health benefits too, are becoming increasingly important. "It's why bees are big news for all the right reasons," points out Progressive Gifts & Home Worldwide

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Spotlight On... Bath & Body Far left: Beefayre's Waggledance Bee Happy hand creams.

Left: MAD Beauty's Manitizer moisturising hand sanitiser.

Below: Best Kept Secrets' bath hearts collection combines value with fun, novelty concepts.

Tom Sykes, director, Xystos. "The Mini Bee Kit and Travel Kit from The Naked Bee has all of the good stuff and none of the bad stuff," he confirms. "The free counter display is a boon for retailers when placed by the till, as the product is a great pick up line, with the retro packaging adding to the appeal."

Bex Hewetson, marketing director at Beefayre, agrees that consumers now have specific needs. "People are increasingly looking to buy their products from brands

Lathering Up One of the biggest growth areas in the pamper sector has been men's products, with packaging, once again, helping to drive sales.

"Our Gentlemen’s Hardware Apothecare collection, for example, showcases neat and effective packaging reflecting the Gentlemen’s Hardware image well in stores," says Wild & Wolf's marketing and PR assistant, Alice Hughes. "The colours and fonts on the packaging match what’s inside and show that less is often more, with simple monochrome designs and the recognisable Gentlemen’s Hardware logo."

At Really Good/Soul, sales manager Lisa Marcuccio states that the men’s grooming industry is booming. "Trends for 2016 range from man braids and short beards to anti grooming," comments Lisa, "with men needing to have a place to store their styling products and grooming essentials."

With more men on the move than ever before, male grooming company Scaramouche + Fandango recently changed the configuration of the company's travel pack." "We have now moved to an EVA bag to increase its on shelf attractiveness and provide a value add-on for the customer by providing a re-usable travel friendly pouch," explains Tamara Vazquez Perez, head of retail and brand. "It's a great introduction to the range and at an easy pick me up price it's a low risk purchase."With men's

gifts always a challenge, investing in male grooming products could be the next big thing for gift shops.

Top right: What you see is what you get. Wild and Wolf's Gentlemen's Hardware hand care gift set.

Above: One of two new Bright Side lines from Really Good which will be launching in May in time for Father’s Day. Right: Scaramouche + Fandango's newly packaged travel pack.

that are made in the UK, while products that have good health benefits, and include more natural ingredients, are going to be more desirable than those that don't have any added benefits. Packaging and fragrance are still equally as important, but I think there will be a shift in people's attitude as to where the products are produced," she suggests.

For those who like an explosion of fragrance, bath bombs are continuing to rack up sales. At Best Kept Secrets, Denise Edwards says that, in recent years, the surge in bath bombs has created a huge market with interest from all age groups.

"This year shows no sign of a slow-down in consumers’ appetite," she confirms.

"Alongside great scents and innovative new concepts, the real driver is value, with the large, single bath burst challenged by smaller multiple bath bursts sold in packs."

Whether bath and body products are bought as a gift or as a self-purchase, as an impulse buy or a considered purchase, with so much innovation in the sector, retailers should definitely indulge in a little pampering themselves!

Top Retail Tips l "Bath and body products make a perfect teacher's gift. A typical spend is around £8-£10, so a selection of gifts at this price range, along with supporting PoS, can provide a welcome sales boost in July."

Rob Tyler, sales director, Di Palomo l "A full range of products should be displayed together with samples, so that scents can be easily checked."

Denise Edwards, director, Best Kept Secrets l "Gift retailers can make the most of their products by theming them together, using the packaging and being creative.

Multiple items should be displayed together to show a complete gift for consumers who need some inspiration!"

Lisa Marcuccio, sales manager, Really Good l "Looking at what the supplier can offer in terms of display solutions is one way in which retailers can maximise sales."

David Cree, sales manager, Joe Davies

Progressive Gifts & Home Worldwide

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Call 01670 512 222 Email sales@bestkeptsecrets.co.uk

It’s all about the scent

Best Kept Secrets, Coopies Field, Morpeth, Northumberland NE61 6JT. www.bestkeptsecrets.co.uk

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What’s New Progressive Gifts & Home highlights some of the latest candles and fragranced gift products to be showcased at PG LIve 2016.

HearthWick’s Mercury Magic HearthWick is the candle that keeps on giving – repeat business to retailers, that is! And it’s a trend that looks set to continue in 2016 for Xystos, its UK distributor. WoodWick’s autumn/winter collection includes this gorgeous HearthWick Ellipse Mercury Glass candle – yet another example of the outstanding quality products from Virginia Gift Brands. It has an RRP of £24.99.

Xystos Tel: 0191 499 1570 Email: sales@xystos.co.uk www.xystostrade.co.uk PG LIVE - Stand 523

Retro From WoodWick Plaid Speaking This unusual Plaid Hourglass offering is among the new autumn/winter releases from WoodWick, the candle with the crackling wick. It has an RRP of £22.99. Two new ranges have been added, the Boudoir Collection, featuring six fragrances, and the Blue Arrow Collection of five scents in a distinctive HearthWick vessel. There are three other hourglass candles, too - Dancing, Crackle Glass and Scenic - as well as a range of attractive WoodWick Candle shades.

Available from Xystos, the home of flame and fragrance.

Xystos Tel: 0191 499 1570 Email: sales@xystos.co.uk www.xystostrade.co.uk PG LIVE - Stand 523

This striking and unusual Chevron Mosaic candle from Xystos - RRP £21.99 - may not be typical of the much-loved WoodWick range, but it demonstrates that its American manufacturer has something for all tastes. This example is expected to appeal to retro lovers of all ages as the wonder of WoodWick enchants an evergrowing customer base following bestever sales for the brand this year.

Xystos Tel: 0191 499 1570 Email: sales@xystos.co.uk www.xystostrade.co.uk PG LIVE - Stand 523

Festive Candles Being both decorative and useful, this Snowflake Ornament Candle from WoodWick would make a welcome addition to any home at Christmas. It has an RRP of £16.99. Xystos also has another new festive offering, the pretty Scenic Hourglass Candle, which carries pictures of a house, holly and snowflakes and bears the single word ‘Hope’. RRP: £19.99.

Xystos Tel: 0191 499 1570 Email: sales@xystos.co.uk www.xystostrade.co.uk PG LIVE – Stand 523

Vintage Stunner The WoodWick ranges feature fragrances and candle vessels to suit all tastes and are testament to the belief that variety is the spice of life. Now, there is a candle for lovers of all things retro – and supplier Xystos expects them to be hotfooting it to the shops to buy this Vintage Hobnail Glass stunner. The RRP is £13.99.

Xystos Tel: 0191 499 1570 Email: sales@xystos.co.uk www.xystostrade.co.uk PG LIVE – Stand 523

Outlook Shady Apart from two new WoodWick collections – the enticing Boudoir, featuring six new scents, and Blue Arrow, an eye-catching HearthWick vessel with five fragrances – Xystos has also added the charming Glowing Forest and Woodland Wonder shades and a Halloween shade for jar candles, as well as a Geometric shade in gold and silver.

Xystos Tel: 0191 499 1570 Email: sales@xystos.co.uk www.xystostrade.co.uk PG LIVE - Stand 523

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INTRODUCING

We believe in American made.

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

Mid Season Fragrances Ashleigh & Burwood follow up their successful Spring Fair fragrance launches, by unveiling a brand new mid-season summer scent launching this month. Coconut & Lychee is a tropical blend that invites the consumer to 'be transported to a hot sunny beach'. The deliciously fruity, sunny accord is available in 250ml and 500ml sizes as well as part of a special edition kit, and provides freshness to in-store fragrance selection, delivering a boost to mid-season sales.

Ashleigh & Burwood Tel: 01932 267060 Email: info@ashleigh-burwood.co.uk www.ashleigh-burwood-trade.co.uk

New Designs Outdoor Fragrances Citronella and herbs form the basis of a new range of outdoor jar candles and tealights from Bolsius, with soothing fragrances of Lemongrass, Rosemary or Basil. A limited edition of three fragrances are now available from the Bolsius Aromatic range. Evoking memories of holidays and sun kissed sands, Tropic Cool Down, Sunny Beach and Love in the air are available in frosted glass candles, reed diffusers and melts.

Bolsius Tel: +44 (0)800 169 5126. www.bolsius.com

Ashleigh & Burwood has recently introduced two chic, contemporary ceramic reed diffuser designs featuring bold illustrations and a strong monochrome colour scheme. Dreamcatcher has an intricate kaleidoscopic print whilst Two Little Birds boasts an on trend wildlife print, perfectly appealing to the modern consumer. Both reed diffusers come complete in a set with a Fresh Linen reed diffuser fragrance - a refreshing blend of aloe, frangipani, lavender and citrus, perfectly evocative of white sheets billowing in a light breeze.

Ashleigh & Burwood Tel: 01932 267060 Email: info@ashleigh-burwood.co.uk www.ashleigh-burwood-trade.co.uk

Limited Edition Baubles

Fragrant Memories BFA Contemporary Gift’s new collection, Himalayan Candles, combines eternal fragrances with vintage art and traditional artisan hand-making skills. Each candle is poured by hand using a natural soy wax blended with high quality essential and fragrance oils, whilst cotton wicks ensure a clean and even burn. All containers are unique and handmade, and can be reused once the candle has burned away. Fragrances feature Peony, Anise & Black Pepper, Ancient Philosophy, Grapefruit Pine and Tobacco Bark.

Enesco Tel: 01228 404040 Email: uksales@enesco.co.uk www.enesco.co.uk

New for Christmas 2016 is our Enchanted Fragrance Collection featuring our limited run of wax filled baubles in Vanilla & Cranberry and our signature Gold, Frankincense & Myrrh fragrance.

Sitting perfectly with the rest of our Christmas gifting range, they will no doubt sell well and make an eye-catching display in store. With just 1000 of each being lovingly made in our Lake District factory, pre-order now to avoid disappointment.

Wax Tel: 01229 461111 Email: customerservice@wax-lyrical.co.uk www.waxlyricaltrade.com

Scented Stocking Fillers Our novelty collection of candle tins and reed diffusers are perfect impulse buys for the Christmas period. Featuring the slogans ‘Ho, Ho, Ho!,’ ‘OMG It’s Christmas Time’ and ‘Smells Like Christmas’ with scents of cinnamon, Hollyberry and our signature Gold, Frankincense & Myrrh, they’re bound to grab the attention of customers and will sit perfectly on a counter top. Pre-order now to secure your stock.

Wax Lyrical Tel: 01229 461111 Email: customerservice@wax-lyrical.co.uk www.waxlyricaltrade.com

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Himalayan Candles combine beautiful, eternal fragrances with vintage art and traditional artisan hand-making skills.

Hand poured in small batches with a clean, long burning soy wax blend which melts away leaving behind a decorative container which can be used time and time again.

we’ve got giftware all wrapped up Enesco Limited, Head Office & Customer Services, Brunthill Road, Kingstown, Carlisle, Cumbria, CA3 0EN Tel: 01228 404022 Fax: 01228 404041 email: uksales@enesco.co.uk Overseas Customer Services: Tel: +44 1228 404066 Fax: +44 1228 404080 email: eurosales@enesco.co.uk © 2016 Himalayan Trading Post. All Rights Reserved. Distributed by Enesco Ltd. © 2016 Enesco Ltd.

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

Burning Gold Collection

Savanna: Elephants A brand new collaboration between Harlequin and Stoneglow features designs from the bestselling Amazila range. This new collection offers a stunning range of natural wax candles and reed diffusers in stylish matt white ceramic holders, offset with a glazed interior in glorious contrasting colours to match the fabulous packaging. Pictured is the Savanna range which features Elephants and a grey feature colour, fragranced with Leather, Tobacco & Cognac, a sophisticated woody scent. The range will be available to stores from July, and agents are taking forward orders now!

Stoneglow Candles Tel: 0044 208 595 8878 Email: sales@stoneglowcandles.co.uk www.stoneglowcandles.co.uk

Modern Blush is just one of the dozen unique candles in this exciting new collection which bring together great fragrances, with a new style packaging. Best Kept Secrets has launched a new innovative collection of candle tins, with fabulous fragrances, three wicks to give intense burn and aroma, and an eloquent design to make for a perfect candle tin gift collection. The Burning Gold collection was showcased at the recent Spring trade shows to rave reviews from new and existing customers.

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

Escape To The Riviera

New Gentlemen's Fragrance

Amazilia: Hummingbirds A brand new collaboration between Harlequin and Stoneglow features designs from the bestselling Amazila range. This new collection offers a stunning range of natural wax candles and reed diffusers in stylish matt white ceramic holders offset with a glazed interior in glorious contrasting colours to match the fabulous packaging. Pictured is the Amazilia range which features Hummingbirds and a pink feature colour, fragranced with Tuberose and Rose Petals, a lovey floral fragrance with a delicate woody base. The range will be available to stores from July, and agents are taking forward orders now!

Stoneglow Candles Tel: 0044 208 595 8878 Email: sales@stoneglowcandles.co.uk www.stoneglowcandles.co.uk

Yankee Candle has added a new fragrance to its popular Gentleman’s collection, Barbershop, which features clean and classic scents with a modern twist reflecting the ambience of a male grooming salon. New Sandalwood, a spicy mix of sandalwood and juniper, with a hint of patchouli-masculine, brings the range to six fragrances. Available in black glass tumblers with contemporary brushed metal lids, they are a perfect way to appeal to new customers.

Yankee Candle Tel: 0117 316 1200 www.yankeecandle.co.uk

For summer 2016, Yankee Candle is bringing together all the sunny charm of the world’s Riviera in one refreshing, stylish collection, Riviera Escape. Four delightful new fragrances, Riviera Escape, Summer Peach, Olive and Thyme and Sea Salt and Sage, capture the spirit of this alluring region, each an expert blend of Yankee Candle’s true to life fragrances with a dash of promenade chic.

Yankee Candle Tel: 0117 316 1200 www.yankeecandle.co.uk

Triple Fragrance Surprise Spring 2016 sees some exciting new launches within the Colonial brand. A new shape of jar with a triple wick and a metal embossed lid makes its debut.

The candle retails at £14.99 offering 40 hours of delicious fragrance, plus the triple fragrance glass jar holds a real surprise. As the candle burns down the jar, the fragrances gradually morph from one to the next. Move seamlessly from Sugared Lemon to Strawberry passing via Berry Vine – what could be better?

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

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Focus on trends and deals for Christmas at this year’s Exclusively shows!

With the UK’s largest line-up of top-quality homewares suppliers under one roof, it’s easy to spot new market trends and get your Christmas orders placed.

ADDIS HOUSEWARES •

AEROLATTE • AMEFA • ANNIVERSARY HOUSE • APOLLO HOUSEWARES • ARTHUR PRICE • AUTEUR • AYDYA • CHARLES BENTLEY & SON • BERGHOFF WORLDWIDE • BHL GROUP • BLACK + BLUM • BODUM • BOSKA CHEESEWARES • BRABANTIA • BRITA • BURTON MCCALL • CHARLES VIANCIN • CITY LOOK IMPORTS • COOKWARE CO • COUNTRY MATTERS • CREATIVE PRODUCTS • CROWN TRENT • CULINARY CONCEPTS • CURVER • DAVID MASON DESIGN • DENBY BRANDS • DKB HOUSEHOLD • DNC • THE DRH COLLECTION • DUBOST COLAS PRADEL • EATON HOME & DINING • E-CLOTH • ECOEGG • EDDINGTONS • ELIA • EMILE HENRY • EUROPASONIC • FAIRMONT & MAIN • FALCON PRODUCTS • FISKARS • FOSSEWAY TRADING • GEH • GILBERTS • GOURMET GADGETRY • GREEN PIONEER • I GRUNWERG • HAREWOOD INTERNATIONAL • HAUS • HORWOOD HOMEWARES • HOT PLATE PRODUCTS LTD • IC INNOVATIONS • ICB • ICTC • IMPERIAL INTERNATIONAL • JERAY • JOSEPH JOSEPH • JUST MUGS • JWP • KILNER • KIS • KUHN RIKON • LE CHATEAU TEXTILES • LE CREUSET • LEKUE • LURCH • LUXURY HOUSEWARES • MAGEFESA BY VITRINOR • MAHITTI • MASON CASH • MASTRAD • MAXWELL & WILLIAMS • METALTEX • MEYER • MICROPLANE • MY GIFTS TRADE • NAVIGATE • NEAT IDEAS • NORDIC WARE • OCTOPUS PUBLISHING • OXO GOOD GRIPS • PENDEFORD HOUSEWARES • PHA KITCHESSENTIALS • PLAN B MARKETING • PLASTICFORTE • POLDER • PREMIER HOUSEWARES • PRICE & KENSINGTON • PYREX • RAVENHEAD • READY STEADY COOK • RKW • ROBERT WELCH DESIGNS • ROOT 7 • ROSTI MEPAL • H&L RUSSEL • RYLAND PETERS & SMALL SABICHI • • SALTER • SCOTT BROTHERS • SIMPLEHUMAN • SISTEMA • SMASH GLOBAL • SODASTREAM • STERCK • SWAN PRODUCTS • T&G • TAYLOR’S EYE WITNESS • TEFAL • TERRAILLON • TONTARELLI • TRADESTOCK • TYPHOON • ULTIMATE PRODUCTS • VACU VIN • VILLEROY & BOCH • WESCO • WESTERN HOUSE • WHITEFURZE • WHITFORD • WILTON BRANDS • WORLD KITCHEN • ZODIAC STAINLESS PRODUCTS • ZWILLING J.A. HENCKELS • ARZUM ELEKTRIKLI • BENROSS GROUP • BEURER • CONNECT DISTRIBUTION • DUALIT • EPE INTERNATIONAL • EUROPASONIC • GROUPE SEB • HEALTHY FOODS/YONANAS • JURA PRODUCTS • JWP CHARACTER LIGHTING • KALORIK • KITCHENAID • MAGIMIX • MEYER • NUWAVE • RKW • SAGE APPLIANCES • SMART WORLDWIDE • SMARTWARES EUROPE • TEAM UKI • ULTIMATE • VITA-MIX EUROPE • WITT

Follow us on www.exclusivelyhousewares.co.uk www.exclusivelyelectrical.co.uk

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Run by the industry, for the industry

Exclusively Housewares will run alongside its NEW sister show Exclusively Electrical, designed especially for small domestic appliance buyers

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Spotlight On... Kitchen Gifts

Packing A Punch

Nadiya Hussain, winner of last year's Great British Bake Off, is the latest in a long line of bakers and chefs who have helped to encourage people to cook from scratch. From a boyish Jamie Oliver in the '90s, to Bake Off's Mary Berry and Paul Hollywood, and Masterchef's John Torode and Greg Wallace, there's been a huge push to get people into their kitchens.

With dedicated trade show Exclusively Housewares opening its doors at the Business Design Centre in June, Bake Off returning to our screens this summer and kitchen suppliers thinking as much about gift shops as cook shops, there's a wealth of beautifully packaged kitchenware and tableware product to choose from, ranging from the serious to the fun and quirky.

For some years now, dads are just as likely to rustle up Sunday lunch or an evening meal as mums, with children of all ages eager to discover the delights of helping or creating something that's been made from scratch.

"As people search for gifts that their friends and family will actually treasure or enjoy, housewares products are becoming an increasingly prominent gift choice," says Ian Davies, head of retail sales & marketing services at Portmeirion Group.

"2016 is most definitely the year for outdoor living and the demand for quality, well-designed melamine tableware has increased, but customers’ expectations are much higher," he continues. "It should look just as good as people’s china. Our Sophie Conran for Portmeirion melamine collection replicates her porcelain collection by featuring its rippled style, while Portmeirion’s Botanic Garden melamine uses a creamy white colourway to illustrate the richness in colour of Botanic Garden’s popular earthenware."

At Kitchen Craft, Clare Budgen, marketing controller, says that there's been a definite move away from 'ordinary'. "Whether this is functional or aesthetic, consumers are wanting opulence and uniqueness,"

she suggests. "By their very nature, these items, whether housewares or not, become gift opportunities. In our Artesa range for example, the introduction of glassware, copper, slate and different wood materials, combined with the unique shapes, styles and ways to present food, has allowed them to become instant gifts for foodies. By the same taken, the spiraliser - a fairly bland piece of kit - transforms cooking, again becoming a talking point and an interesting gift." Adds Clare: "Informing and sharing ideas on food is what consumers love to do, so the products which help them achieve this are key."

Jenny Handley, head of marketing at T & G Woodware, concurs that it's more important than ever to create on trend

Top: Kitchen Craft's Artesa outdoor dining.

Left: Portmeirion Group's Botanic Garden design has been replicated in melamine.

Right: Sophie Conran for T&G chopping boards reflects form and function.

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Spotlight On... Kitchen Gifts products that are unique with clear design, function and quality. "Consumers are more astute and are demanding something different, combined with great value for money, but the product must be useful and beautiful. As a result, it is vital for suppliers to design and manufacture products that appeal both for their aesthetics as well as for

their function, and to create easy pick up lines with key price points - even better if they are gift boxed. An example is the new wooden kitchen accessories range by Sophie Conran for T&G." New for the company this year is the rustic casual dining look, while vintage and retro trends continue to be popular. "These on trend kitchenware products are perfect for gift shops, as the products sit well alongside gifts for the home," continues Jenny. "The trends look similar, but gift shops are now able to offer a product with a function, with a move towards housewares products being bought by women for men, such as our CrushGrind Luna and Sola salt, pepper and spice mills."

At La De Da Living, director Dominique Fracasso-Stroud also Above right: Mugs are among the items in Lesser & Pavey's Cream Kitchen collection.

Left: La De Da Living's cheese markers.

The Bake Off Effect With millions of viewers hooked on the Great British Bake Off, it comes as no surprise that anything that is bakeware related and giftable is ringing up sales.

"Baking is a hugely popular gift industry trend," comments David Cree, sales manager at Joe Davies. "For example, we've seen tremendous sales of our collection of Star Baker spatulas with their fun messages." As David adds, "presentation is certainly key to maximising sales and many retailers

have created interesting displays to further build on the interest."

He says that children are also massively caught up in the baking craze with one of the company's Star Baker spatulas available as a pair - one for mum and a small one for the junior baker! "Another trend for clean practical products, can be seen in our White Bamboo collection, which is another strong area for us," David points out.

"Bakeware is a huge giftware trend at the moment, fuelled by the phenomenal cultural success of shows such as the Great British Bake Off," concurs Katrina Lawton, marketing and public relations manager at Creative Tops. "To reinforce the item's gift appeal however, it's important to have a focus on packaging to add luxury to the product."

She highlights that this year, baking trends are less about pastels and floral prints and more about functionality. "Our Stir It Up collection has been designed with this in mind," adds Katrina.

points to kitchen gifts that are unique, different and a bit of fun - something that will create a talking point in the kitchen or at the dining table, such as the company's handstamped cheese marker forks. "They're quirky, humorous and a fantastic conversation-starter, with the sentiments and witticisms on our hand-stamped cutlery fulfilling a similar role."

For many years, Lesser & Pavey has found that housewares sit well in a giftrelated store. "We call them ‘practical gifts’ and their popularity seems to be increasing," confirms md Julian Hunt. "We have always provided gifts sets that feature quality mugs, with coasters and tea for one, but are finding that for those moving house, starting a home or as wedding gifts, our housewares ranges are highly popular."

Continued on page 61

Show Essentials Dates: Venue: Tel: Web:

June 14-15, 2016 Business Design Centre, London, 0121 237 1130 www.exclusivelyhousewares.co.uk

Below: Paul Hollywood with his new bakeware range for Kitchen Craft.

Top: Joe Davies' Star Baker spatulas.

Above: Creative Tops' Stir It Up collection.

Right: Wow! Stuff's Bake Off multi-timer.

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SEE US AT EXCLUSIVELY ELECTRICAL STAND EE6 14th–15th JUNE 2016

Benross_Silentnight _Advert_QuarterPgRed.pdf

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Revolutionising the enjoyment of coffee Innovative technologies in the new JURA E line such as the One-Touch Cappuccino function creates trend specialities such as cappuccino, flat white and latte macchiato at the touch of a button.

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TFT display Intelligent Water System (I.W.S.®) Programmable temperatures Milk system cleaning function Wireless ready for JURA Coffee App Energy save mode

JURA Products Ltd Vivary Mill, Vivary Way Colne , Lancashire BB8 9NW Tel: 01282 868266 / Fax: 01282 863411 sales@uk.jura.com www.uk.jura.com

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Spotlight On... Kitchen Gifts

Licensing: What's Trending

Of course, the kitchen, as the heart of the home, is also the place to add a bit of joke-y sentiment. As Thomas O'Brien, operations manager at Boxer Gits, points out, "a kitchen needn’t be a dull and functional place. There is a great scope for fun too! We’ve noticed that there are few sentiment items in the kitchen with our slate kitchen sign, in the shape of a chopping board, making a great decorative item which will be bought as a gift too."

Thomas also points out that kitchen gifts seem to have little packaging mimicking the way 'functional' kitchen items are sold, helping consumers to identify what the gift is for. "Our stalwart Stand Clear Man Cooking Apron, with handy beer pockets, is a great gift for those hard to buy for men and is made from high quality fabric which we find is essential when offering an apron. Our advice is, when it comes to the kitchen, keep it fun - just like everywhere else!"

Above: Boxer Gifts' Baked With Love slate.

Below: Elite's three piece Emma Bridgewater caddy gift set.

Trends, of course, come and go, but for Wild & Wolf, the company points to colourful and pastel shades, as well as bringing the outdoors in, with themes including botanical and nautical.

"Specific trends and designs are beneficial to gift shops to enhance full displays of colour themes and build whole lifestyle sets of kitchen products," says marketing and PR assistant Alice Hughes. "When kitchen products are designed as a whole range, instead of one product, this offers a lot more in the sense of displays and sales add-ons. Plus, a themed range can influence an entire room."

The company's latest kitchen range comes from renowned designers Mini Moderns, and, following a popular colour-filled collaboration last year, 2016 offers a seaside themed Above: Mini Moderns from range, Whitby.

Wild & Wolf.

"The nautical designs are made up Left: Part of the Mini of a simplistic yet effective colour theme Moderns collection from Ulster Weavers, which will of white and blue to suit most kitchen be part of the company's and gift shops spaces, giving endless new season collection.

Below: NASA is a new options to merchandising with the licence for Half Moon Bay. packaging matching the items - the first design a gift-receiver will see," Another Mini Moderns licensee is Ulster Weavers, with the company also noticing a shift towards improved packaging. "It's becoming an enhanced part of the overall customer experience," says Owen McErlain, European retail manager.

"One of our new collaborations is with Mini Moderns, with the range focusing on retro designs and prints. It's due to go on sale in July, and we are essentially driving the packaging to become part of the gift in ways that will help the brand's appeal to both trade and consumers. This is a trend that we feel we are seeing more of, and it also helps stockists/stores to merchandise items in an attractive way. Customers can then easily identify the brand too.

As Ben Craddock, marketing manager at Half Moon Bay highlights, licensing is becoming more and more popular in the housewares/gift marketplace. "There appears to be a growing number of celebrity chefs who are licensing their own ranges," comments Ben. "These sit well with our own ranges that include McDougall’s, McVities and Marmite."

Adds Ben: "Display, as ever, is critical to the success of any range, and licensed gifts can help to bring colour and attention to a retail display. Plus, using other products that complement the range can be highly effective."

Launched late last year, Elite’s melamine picnic wear

by Emma Bridgewater is in high demand, says James Brierley, owner of Elite. "While ideal for kitchen shops, these melamine items make great window displays and can easily fit into a gift shop environment as can our children’s eating sets and tea party sets. We have found by representing our decorative tin caddy sets in a triple pack, this has transformed kitchen storage into a gift, rather than just for self purchase."

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THE PERFECT GIFT FOR ANY FAMILY

Our Classic ranges have been a part of family life since 1938. Versatile and easy to use, they’ve inspired generations to enjoy cooking, from Sunday roasts to home baking and everything in between.

Discover all our new ranges online.

www.prestige.co.uk

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

Bean-To-Cup Coffee Machines

Hobbies And Leisure Bold and quirky in size, shape, colour and statement, Our Name Is Mud products are the perfect choice for a fun gift to be used on a daily basis! Highlights of the January 2016 launch include five new mugs in a brand new category: Hobby and Leisure. Celebrating women's favourite hobbies and pastimes, these vibrant mugs feature the inimitable style and witticism for which designer Lorrie Veasey is so famous.

Enesco Tel: 01228 404040 Email: uksales@enesco.co.uk www.enesco.co.uk

Premium Swiss bean-to-cup coffee machine manufacturers JURA will be showcasing their beautiful coffee machines – now including the stunning new E8 Chrome and innovative JURA Smart Connect - at Exclusively Electrical.

Discover them and much more on stand EE06 at the Business Design Centre, London, between June 14-15.

Jura Products Tel: 01282 868266 Email: sales@uk.jura.com www.uk.jura.com

Bottles And Mason Jars New Firefly bottles and mason jars are proving a big hit for Joe Davies’s customer. The series was introduced at Spring Fair and, due to its success, many new designs will be added at the upcoming Harrogate Home & Gift show.

The jars and bottles come in rich colours with a mercury metallic finish and feature integral battery packs and pretty strips of bright LED lights. They look great as they are and really spectacular when illuminated.

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

Kitchen And Home Clean lines and a high quality stoneware range, the brand new Cream Kitchen from Lesser & Pavey is simple in its design. Each item is individually gift boxed in new stylish packaging to match the range's simplicity and quality. Homewares are highly popular as wedding or moving house gifts and Lesser & Pavey lead the way in providing gifts of quality at affordable prices to meet the consumer expectations.

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

Comical Tea Infusers Kitchen Craft’s latest brand Fred offers a substantial choice of fresh, funny, clever gifts which inject humour into everyday life across four key categories - Kitchen, Kids, Party and Home. The kitchen collection includes several comical tea infusers such as the delightful Manatea! Like all Fred’s ingenious tea infusers, Manatea comes in an eye-catching full colour gift box.

Contact Fred at Kitchen Craft.

Kitchen Craft Tel: +44 (0) 121 604 1111 Email: sales@kitchencraft.co.uk www.kitchencraft.co.uk/fred

Sophie Conran for T&G Sophie Conran has teamed up again with T&G to create a beautiful, fresh new range of wooden boards and kitchen gifts. This new collection comprises four new wooden boards in FSC certified natural beech, two wooden rolling pins and a set of three wooden spoons. The boards and accessories reflect Sophie’s love of cooking, entertaining and all things beautiful. Each item carries a special little message, laser printed in Sophie’s own hand and comes beautifully gift boxed.

T&G Woodware Tel: +44 (0) 1275 841841 www.tg-woodware.com Exclusively Housewares: Stand 263

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Old Truman Brewery, Brick Lane, E1 11th - 13th September 2016

London’s only trade fair exclusively for British craft and design.

To find out more about being part of this unique fair, go to

www.bctf.co.uk

British by design...

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Spotlight On... BCTF London

London Calling An Autumn version of the popular British Craft Trade Fair in Harrogate will be making its London debut at The Old Truman Brewery in London's trendy Brick Lane in East London this September.

PG&H put show director Margeret Bunn in the hot seat to discover what will be giving the show its point of difference.

"We have had many requests over the years from both buyers and exhibitors to create a southern version of our fair," explains organiser PSM's Margeret Bunn, BCTF and BCTF London's show director. "British handmade is a popular commodity on today's high street, and we feel that buyers should be given more than one opportunity to attend our fairs, with many believing that the BCTF in Harrogate is the most stunning gift trade fair in the country."

As she explains: "BCTF is 41 years old, and well established in the calendar, but for many buyers in the south, it's just too far to go, even though Harrogate is a beautiful place to visit. Bringing a version to London is a logical step for us and, with a very loyal exhibitor base, we believe that we can deliver a great show in year one."

In year one, exhibitors will be restricted to around 200. "This gives us the opportunity to be selective with our exhibitors, making sure that they are right for the London market place. All will be small producers and many will be unknown to buyers, making it an even more intriguing fair to visit."

The show will consist of two sections: Newcomers and Main Hall. There will be 30

Top: Margeret Bunn, BCTF and BCTF London show director.

Top right: Unusual jewellery from Rachel Reilly.

Above right: White Light Ceramics shows off a stripy mono design.

Inset: Handbags from Alissa Valdenassi.

British Craft Trade Fair: The Lowdown

● BCTF is one of the UK’s longest established trade fairs representing British designer-makers who want to profile and sell their creative work to independent home and gift retailers, galleries and heritage shops, as well as interior designers and architectural practises that are looking to commission pieces of art for public and private projects. ● Originally launched in Harrogate in 1975, the show was bought by current organisers PSM in 1994 who have established it as an exclusive event for British designer-makers.

Show Essentials Dates: September 11-13, 2016 Venue: Old Truman Brewery, Brick Lane, London E1 Email: info@bctf.co.uk Web: www.bctf.co.uk

newcomers in attendance, mainly university graduates, and this section of the fair will be highlighted and branded. "Contemporary work in home and fashion are prominent in the applications so far, and being London, I see that trend continuing," adds Margeret.

The choice of venue is an interesting one. Rather than going for a traditional London exhibition venue, the organisers have reflected the show's edgy side by choosing instead the Old Truman Brewery. It's situated in the centre of London's new iconic art quarter which has gained a reputation for creative events that include major fashion houses and art fairs. Awash with galleries as well as cutting edge outlets and restaurants, the Old Truman Brewery itself was originally a warehouse belonging to Trumans and built in 19th century.

"Its buildings and chimneys are a dominant feature in Brick Lane," highlights Margeret, "and we believe the venue makes a perfect backdrop for a southern version of this fantastic home and gift fair which is unique in every way."

As with BCTF in Harrogate, BCTF London will also be unique in that it is the only trade fair that solely represents British design. "It has become increasingly popular with visitors who can be confident that all exhibitors will be selling British only brands," Margeret underlines.

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

Shot Glasses Here at Clare Davis London we're pleased to announce a brand new range of our very popular shot glasses. Packaged in simple white PP with hot foil detail, these shots are for all the classy people out there. They have a matching swing tag linked to all of the social media hot spots making this brand very saleable. Titles in this range include Queen of all Birthdays and #get ready for a selfie. See our website for full details.

Clare Davis London Tel: 01494 883097 Email: sales@claredavis.co.uk www.claredavislondon.com

Quirky One Offs

Glitter Mugs Clare Davis London has always loved ceramics so it's no surprise we've branched out in to glitter mugs! These terrific bone china mugs come boxed with colour coordinated tissue paper carefully wrapped around them. Complete with a branded box, the mugs make great presents for all the female relations, birthday and Fathers Day. Stop by the website to see our full range.

Clare Davis London Tel: 01494 883097 Email: sales@claredavis.co.uk www.claredavislondon.com

Always available in stock at Dealers, a most unusual mix of goods to meet your stocking needs and your refurbishment and design needs. Lots of unusual quirky one off feature items can also be found at our showroom/warehouse. New and exciting products come in daily - we never know what will arrive next ! Along with all the old and vintage items, we also carry our regular stocking lines easy for you to repeat on.

Dealers Ltd Tel: 01743 761241 Email: dealers@dealers-uk.com www.dealers-uk.com

Going Dotty Lesser & Pavey has teamed up with the card winners of the Henries award for design Hearts Designs to bring a new range of wedding gifts to retailers. Under license, this range is called Mad Dots and you can see why. From the gold of the wedding rings, the range features gold dots on everything with two different phrasing designs - Hugs and Kisses To The New Mr & Mrs and Love Laughter And Happily Ever After. Real gold has been used on the mugs and glasses!

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

Season For Nettles Best Kept Secrets has been using the finest, freshest ingredients in its latest batch of soaps, proving that they will go to any lengths to provide the very finest of ingredients for their luxury soap bars. In fact, hand picking nettles in April from the grounds of Mitford Castle in Northumberland has become an annual pastime for the team, and ensures the very freshest and best of ingredients are included in their range of handmade and hand logged soaps.

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

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PROGRESSIVE GIFTS & HOME WORLDWIDE

Always And Forever A beautiful, monochromatic range of modern wedding day gifts adorned with gold foil lettering, this is one collection of wedding gifts that no bride wants to be without. Every part of the wedding is catered for from candle holders and guest books for use on the day to frames and albums for those special memories to be treasured forever. The simple styling across the range combines a fresh, clean white with a luxurious gold producing an overall stunning design.

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

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

Colourful Summer Collection You can’t afford to miss Carrie Elspeth’s exclusive new Summer Collection, which is a joyful feast of delicious bright colours and cool pastels. Carrie’s new ranges are keeping pace with the latest trends, which will ensure that these gorgeous designs are enduring favourites.

Alongside the award winning jewellery ranges are new additions to Sentiments, Carrie's bestselling carded bracelet range. All of Carrie’s jewellery is still beautifully handmade in Wales.

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

Star Wars Lights A unique collection of multi-colour LED mood lights in classic Star Wars images.

Highly detailed illuminated laser etched lines reflect light to highlight what appears to be a 3D shape from the Star Wars movie, with seven colour changing LED lights at the push of a button. 5mm wide acrylic panel slotted in to plastic base. Average overall height is 24 cm. Powered by 3 x AAA batteries or charging cable. RRP £15.

Groovy UK Tel: +44 (0)116 239 110 Email: j.johnston@groovyuk.com www.groovyuk.com

One Stop Warehouse This wooden gothic style bench is an example from a diverse range of benches in varying sizes, designs and materials – wooden, metal, stone or cast iron. Various benches are sold not only on their own but also within sets comprising tables and some with chairs. We stock benches for both outdoor and indoor use, with plenty of choice in other seating. In a complementary way, we also offer not only reproduction 'new' seating choices but also old original used seating options.

Dealers Ltd Tel: 01743 761241 Email: dealers@dealers-uk.com www.dealers-uk.com

Shabby Chic Sentiment These new shabby sentiment frames are exclusive to Joe Davies in the UK and feature attractive rustic details with hand pinned panelling, simple printing and a nice distressed finish. There are messages for your nearest and dearest with the cat and dog frames outselling them all. The frames are easy to buy in small quantities. The minimum order across the company’s entire collection is just £100.

For further information on these and all of Joe Davies 8500+ Gifts, please call or email Joe Davies Tel: 0161 975 6300 Email: sales@joedavies.co.uk www.joedavies.co.uk

Your Friend for Light Designed by IF to, yet again, blur the edges between fun and functional, this little guy is full of personality and will hang, grab, dangle or grip almost anywhere, producing a highly effective beam of light, ideal for reading – or for anything that needs just a little bit more illumination! Winner of the Gadgets & Novelty Category in the GALA Awards 2016, it's up for grabs in four bright, cheerful colours The Anywhere Light comes in IF’s trademark innovative giftable packaging. Bright, bold POS is available with starter packs of 12.

IF Tel: 01751 475757 Email: selina@thatcompanycalledif.com www.thatcompanycalledif.com

Inspired by Mackintosh Designed by respected Scottish company Border Fine Arts, the Inspired by Mackintosh range has been inspired by one of the most influential artists of the early 20th century. After its successful launch last year, three new items have been added to the existing range featuring the same bold, decorative art nouveau Rose design. These new items are designed to complement existing pieces in the range. Each piece comes in its own beautifully branded gift box featuring art nouveau-inspired artwork.

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

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

Modern Classics Modern Classics, Sea Salt & Oakmoss, a new fragrance/colourway to add to this best selling home fragrance collection.

The simple classic styling, high fragrances and unusual bottle shapes make this range a very popular choice.

The new blue colour option is bang on trend, as is the wonderful salty, oceanic fragrance. The range offers a wide selection of products such as 140ml reed diffuser, 40 hour candle and 15 hour candle, as well as a room spray and a gift set option.

Stoneglow Candles Tel: 0044 208 595 8878 Email: sales@stoneglowcandles.co.uk www.stoneglowcandles.co.uk

Glass LED Balloons These gorgeous, eye-catching glass balloons are proving a big hit with Joe Davies retail customers. The balloons make a fantastic retail display and as an added bonus contain lovely ‘firefly’ LED lights which look spectacular when lit. The balloons are available in three sizes and an array of colours including bright Mercury, metallic Mercury and plain finish. Retail prices start from £3.99.

Joe Davies’ minimum orders are just £100 and everything in their extensive range is easy to buy in small quantities to suit the independent retailer.

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

Bigger Is Better 500ml reed diffusers have been introduced into the Fired Earth collection for the very first time.

Available in the top two fragrances, Black Tea & Jasmine and Emperor’s Red Tea, these reed diffusers fill the gap for larger home fragrance items in the market. Their size and design makes them a welcome addition to home décor and they can easily be marketed as gifts.

Wax Lyrical Tel: 01229 461111 Email: customerservice@wax-lyrical.co.uk www.waxlyricaltrade.com

Iconic British V&A Designs Wild & Wolf’s long-running collaboration with the renowned V&A is back with new designs.

The garden and home tools feature classic designs from British designers William Kilburn and William Morris. Each pattern has been printed onto essential tools including stylish trowel and fork sets, pruners and hammer tools as well as beautiful enamel pots ideal for both indoors and outdoors. The designs are available in elegant coral, blue and green and are packaged in detailed boxes.

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

Contemporary Homeware For interior style, practicality and colour Wild & Wolf have got it covered with its Wild Wood homeware range.

Featuring matte-finish desk lamps and origami inspired lamp-shades Wild Wood will brighten up any room. Also available are retro-style clocks in each of the five Wild Wood colours - French Blue, Concrete Grey, English Mustard, Goldfish Orange and Swedish Green.

Completing the bold yet elegant collection are globe lights, ideal for adding statement to a desk or side table.

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

Festival Of Colours Celebrate the sunshine with a bold splash of colour in-store. Miss Milly supplies gorgeous costume jewellery and scarves in a festival of colours with appealing designs, great quality and very affordable price points. Add to your offer with the company’s branded boxes and bags, giving your customers a complete gift solution.

Call the friendly team who are always happy to advise on best-sellers, put together orders to set budgets and set-up your trade login.

Miss Milly Tel: 01905 622509 Email: hello@missmilly.co.uk www.missmilly.co.uk

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

Cathy Frost, owner, Loveone, Ipswich A small gift shop on a secondary site CATEGORY

SUPPLIERS/RANGES

COMMENT

Decorative Home Accessories

Talking Tables: hanging paper decorations; Tweedmill: blankets

The unusual flower pom-poms in particular really stand out.

Made in Scotland, the blankets are beautifully made and come in gorgeous colours.

Fragranced Giftware

True Grace: candles;

British made and quirky, the candles capture the essence of an English garden.

Again, these are made in Britain and are presented in brown paper packaging. Good price points.

Parkminster: candles

Jewellery

Orelia: contemporary; Tales From The Earth: sterling silver

Fashion-led jewellery for all ages.

Elegant, simple jewellery.

Fashion Accessories

100 Stars: scarves

This is a new supplier for us. The designs feature maps and the scarves have been hugely popular.

Greeting Cards

Wrap

Very bright, quirky cards featuring interesting graphics and designs.

Giftwrap

Ben Rothery

Beautifully drawn, good quality giftwrap.

Other Hot Hits

Jellycat: toys and books

We've just started to sell the books which co-ordinate with the toys.

Our current best seller is Magic Bunnies.

Chris Beards, owner, Mantons, Port Erin A medium sized village gift, card and toy store.

CATEGORY

SUPPLIERS/RANGES

COMMENT

Decorative Home Accessories

Retreat Home: across the board;

The company is always bringing out new products which keeps their ranges fresh.

Classic best sellers which sell and sell.

East of India: across the board Fragranced Giftware

Melt Candles: across the board

Beautifully packaged products and great fragrances. PoS and testers help to drive sales.

Hand poured candles that come in unique shapes, gorgeous colours and lovely fragrances.

Jewellery

Miss Milly: contemporary

Bright colours, mid-range jewellery with wide appeal.

Greeting Cards

Laura Sherratt

This is a brand new range for us from a small, niche publisher. The cards are something completely different.

Giftwrap

Glick

Good quality wrap.

Other Hot Hits

Powell Craft: children's clothing

This brand is exclusive to us and offers a point of difference. The quality and designs are fantastic.

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Di Palomo: across the board;

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David Theobald, co-owner, Emporium, Cheltenham and Winchcombe Large high street gift shops.

CATEGORY

SUPPLIERS/RANGES

COMMENT

Decorative Home Accessories

East of India: across the board;

Quirky items for around the home and the best service we receive from a supplier.

A great variety of ever changing products.

The Old Basket Supply (TOBS): across the board Fragranced Giftware

Bath House: Gin & Tonic;

Heaven Scent: bespoke

The range of soap, bath salts, bath soak and lip balm has been a very strong seller.

Our Emporium branded candles and diffusers have sold consistently well for five years.

Jewellery

Estella Bartlett: across the board; Clementine Jewellery: contemporary

Quality products and beautiful designs which come in crisp, white packaging.

Beautiful handmade jewellery that's that a little bit different.

Fashion Accessories

Lua: bags and scarves; Shruti: make-up bags

Our best selling product across both shops. Superb designs and a great price point.

These come in a variety of designs and sell well.

Greeting Cards

Pippi & Me

Possibly the cutest cards ever. We have sold squillions of them!

Giftwrap

The Art File

Bold striking designs. A great range for men.

Other Hot Hits

Orange Tree Toys: across the board

A great range that's competitively priced.

Rachael Barnes, owner, Dragonfly, Knaresborough A medium sized gift and card shop in the centre of a market town.

CATEGORY

SUPPLIERS/RANGES

COMMENT

Decorative Home Accessories

Nigel Quiney: Pizazz bone china mugs;

Lovely feminine mugs that are beautifully packaged. Customers love to buy a mug, coaster and matching birthday card.

These feature funny sayings that people can't resist. They look great when hung in the bathroom or kitchen.

WPL: tin signs

Jewellery

Girls and Pearls: across the board

Nice quality jewellery in lovely bright colours. The jewellery comes with a free gift bag.

Fashion Accessories

JewelCity: scarves;

Amazing quality for the price. The metallic scarves are particularly popular this Spring.

These make a great add-on to a scarf purchase.

Joe Davies: Equilibrium scarf holders Greeting Cards

Ling

We would not be without Ling's Rainbow humorous cards. It's funny, visual humour without being rude.

Giftwrap

Tracks

Fantastic quality, lovely bright colours and not too expensive. The Subbuteo design is our most popular.

Other Hot Hits

Ty: Ty Beanie Boos and Teeny Tys; Xpressions 4 U: Boofle chocolate bars

Big eyed soft toys that kids love collecting. At ÂŁ2.99, the Teeny Tys have been a huge hit.

These fly off the shelf, especially during the Spring seasons. A perfect size to put in with a card. Titles include Yummiest Mummy and Best Grandma.

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Best Sellers

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

DI PALOMO T: 01803 612772 E: debbie@dipalomo.com W: www.dipalomo.com

MISS MILLY T: 01905 622509 E: hello@missmilly.co.uk W: www.missmilly.co.uk

JOE DAVIES T: +44 (0)161 975 6300 E: sales@joedavies.co.uk W: www.joedavies.co.uk

UP IN LIGHTS/SMILING FACES T: 01444 882323 E: sales@smilingfaces.co.uk W: www.smilingfaces.co.uk

NIGEL QUINEY PUBLICATIONS T: 01799 520200 E: info@nigelquiney.com W: www.nigelquiney.com

STONEGLOW CANDLES T: 0208 595 8878 E: sales@stoneglowcandles.co.uk W: www.stoneglowcandles.co.uk

THAT COMPANY CALLED IF T: +44 (0) 1751 475757 E: selina@thatcompanycalledif.com W: www.thatcompanycalledif.com

ORANGE TREE TOYS T: 01242 244500 E: sales@orangetreetoys.com W: orangetreetoys.com

HEAVEN SCENT T: 01225 868788 E: contact@heavenscent.co.uk W: heavenscent.co.uk

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On The Road Helen Hoggard Helen Hoggard became an agent four years ago and covers Yorkshire. Her principals are IF (That Company Called), Country Matters, Blade & Rose, Seascape and Murray Hogarth, with products ranging from quirky stationery items to tableware and luxury bath and body ranges.

So far, it's been a good year, with Helen remaining optimistic for the next quarter.

"My year has got off to a great start with sales up on last year across the board," enthuses Helen. "The companies that I represent are continually bringing out new products which is helping to keep things fresh for retailers and, in turn, for their customers."

Far from seeing retailers placing little and often with smaller orders, Helen confirms that they are looking to larger orders this year with a view to making an impact in store. "I tend to encourage my customers to take the full product range rather than bits and pieces, and that has worked well this year," she states.

As for the Spring Seasons, she says that Valentine's Day, followed by an early Mother's Day

and Easter - both coming one after the other in March - did challenge many retailers. "Although my customers tell me the year has been consistent so far, Easter did encroach on Mother's, and Mother's Day on Valentine's Day, which meant there were overlaps in terms of putting product out on display.

They weren't able to give each of the occasions the focus that they would normally have done as they had to introduce products relating to another occasion at the same time!"

Looking to the next quarter, Helen says she's feeling very positive, with many of her customers already placing their Christmas orders, and others looking forward to visiting Home & Gift in Harrogate in July.

If there's a downside, it's the 'not knowing' which way the EU Referendum will go. "There's a lot of talk, and a lot of media coverage being given to it, so it will be good to know whether the UK stays in or comes out of the EU. It's similar to how retailers, and consumers, felt last year when we had the General Election. It naturally makes everyone feel more cautious."

Left: Helen Hoggard.

Last Word Lisa Shoesmith To commemorate a recent milestone birthday, Lisa Shoesmith, a director of Really Good/Soul (a Greats sponsor) recently received a beehive, complete with 20,000 bees, from the company.

Lisa, a chartered accountant, has subsequently become a member of the Beekeepers Association and, one day, hopes to make her own honey. l The words that best describe you? "Practical, outdoorsy, a control freak." l A quirky fact we don't know about you? "I'm the part owner of three goats that live on a farm with my horses and bees." l What's the best advice that you have ever received? "Use colour and confidence to present the best 'you' can be to both yourself and the outside world. It was said to me by a leading colour consultant and it's been life changing for me." l What's the best advice that you would give to someone?

"Have a go and try your hardest. It's good to step outside of your comfort zone." l Which book are you currently reading? "Pretty Dead by Anne Frasier." l What's your favourite TV programme? "I recently enjoyed the box set of Gray's Anatomy." l What's your favourite film? "War Horse."

Below: Lisa Shoesmith with her bees.

l What's been your favourite holiday or place to visit?

"Botswana where I went on a horse riding safari." l How do you usually start your day? "I wake at 6am and take one of my dogs with me to go and see my two horses. I'm with them for about half an hour. Then I head for the office around 7.15am, which gives me an hour on my own to prepare for the day." l How do you usually end your day? "I enjoy reading mystery or historical detective novels." l What's the best gift that you've received? "A commissioned piece of artwork featuring one of my dogs." l What's the best gift that you've given to someone else? "I bought a House of Colours experience for my sister." l Which one item would you take to a desert island?

"My Kindle."

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CLASSIFIED

CLASSIFIED BESPOKE

Manufacturer & distributor at your door.

POSITION: BUYER , GIFTS, PACKAGING AND PARTY Scribbler is a vibrant, humorous card, gift & stationery retailer with over 30 shops in the UK

Your one stop shop for bespoke photo frames.

We are looking for an experienced Buyer to join our hardworking and dynamic Buying and Merchandising team in our Head Office in Kennington, London.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Sourcing new products for your categories that fulfil the range strategy Driving sales and profit of your product categories Analysing sales of current products to identify strengths and weaknesses of current range Develop a calendar of promotional opportunities Working with the merchandisers to deliver the stock strategy for the category Negotiating terms with suppliers Developing visual merchandising guidelines for implementation

Just a few reasons to buy from Joe Davies

Wood, plastic, metal & glass frames.

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

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

Please contact our Award Winning sales staff for further details.

Tel: 0161 975 6300 Email sales@joedavies

This role requires someone who is passionate about product and finding the next great product that will excite our customers and drive sales.

As part of the team you will be responsible for:

GIFT IMPORTERS & DISTRIBUTORS

GIFTS & GREETINGS

www.joedavies.co.uk

TRADE ASSOCIATION

To do this effectively you will need the following skills and experience: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Previous retail buying experience as a buyer or junior buyer Experience of working in a design led retail business Negotiation experience Strong analytical skills, numerate Proficient with Excel Good planning and organisational skills Enjoy being part of an energetic team and a good team player

The Giftware Association is the UK’s long established trade association serving retailers and suppliers in the gift and home industry, offering a wide selection of money-saving services, including free marketing, product offers, discounted hotel rates, legal advice and much more.

The position is full time (35 hours per week), Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm and we offer a competitive salary.

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

Interested applicants should send their CV together with a brief covering email to work@scribbler.com by Friday 15th April we will contact suitable applicants for interview shortly after that.

FOR SALE Profitable, prime location gift and kitchen ware business for sale in East Anglia.

Leasehold consists of 2000 square feet sales floor plus upper floor storage. Stockists of major gift and kitchen brands.

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

Contact Angie Bryant on 01993 212 994 for further information.

★ Yankee Candle ★ Charlie Bears ★ Steiff ★ Enesco ★ Nemesis Now ★ Joe Davies ★ Widdop and Co. ★ Kitchen Craft ★ Horwoods ★ Portmeirion Established 10 years Please Email all enquires to: lena.ina291@gmail.com 74

www.dealers-uk.com We have a constantly changing assortment of over 8,000 items including decorative goods, old and new, recycled, vintage, upcycled and reproduction items of furniture, accessories, garden wares, architectural and unusual items It is well worth a visit to our 36,000 square feet warehouse and acres of outside show area or visit our website

www.dealers-uk.com Contact us on: Phone: +44 (0)1743 761241 Email: dealers@dealers-uk.com TRADE ONLY IBC_GH_May 2016.indd 1 1 IBC_GH_Oct Nov 2015.indd Dealers Advert.indd 1

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Zesty lemon mixes with a blend of sparkling citrus and green notes for a true-to-life, clean lemon fragrance.

Flame & Fragrance OBC_GH_May 2016.indd 1

For more info, contact our Customer Service Team Email: sales@xystos.co.uk or call 0191 499 1570 www.xystostrade.co.uk

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