Progressive Greetings August 2024

DROPS...RAINBOW DROPS...RAINBOW

RAINBOW DROPS...RAINBOW

ON THE CARDS

The ever-delightful weather presenter Carol Kirkwood was interviewed on Radio 4’s Saturday Live about her life. She was asked what the secret was to her seemingly relentless sunny disposition. While admitting that she does not bounce out of bed at 3.30am every day with a smile on her face, she said that “concentrating on what you have got, rather than focusing on what you haven’t got” goes a long way to forging a contented life and outlook. I do agree with her to a point, but I also greatly admire those who strive in their business, to take risks, push themselves to achieve more, not just for themselves, but also for their family, their team mates, those in their orbit and of course, the planet.

The Retas awards, which took place a few weeks ago on a Beatrix Potter theme, are a great way of recognising and celebrating the lengths so many in our greeting card retailing community go to in perpetuating the nation’s love of greeting cards. Being a retailer has never been easy and certainly the challenges of today - including footfall fluctuations, increases in costs and the spiral in shoplifting (see pages 48-49) –mean it is not a path for the fainthearted, but as Peter Rabbit said: “A good rabbit never gives up”. That certainly seems to be the case in the greeting card retailing ‘garden’ with news of new shop openings, including Michael Apter opening his fourth Paper Tiger shop in Edinburgh (see page 17) and the fifth shop under the new Ryman Design design-led concept opening in the heart of the City of London (see page15), as well as other impressive initiatives as testament.

But taking calculated risks has, of course, not been confined to the retail side of our sector. Harrogate Home & Gift saw Belly Button Designs debut its new giftware sibling, which the company’s founder Rachel Hare described as the “biggest investment” since she set up the business 30 years ago (see page 17), while Karen Wilson, who co-founded Paper Salad almost 20 years ago has just bought the shares of her close friend and company co-founder Claire Williams as she fulfils her dream of

spending more time with her family while also continuing a designing connection with the business. I remember back to when Karen and Claire started that business, in fact I was sitting in front of them on a bus in New York with Warren when we encouraged them to take the plunge and set up their own card company.

As Carol Kirkwood tells us on her daily weather reports, you cannot guarantee sunshine all the time, so just enjoy it when it’s there!

Left: Stationery Supplies’ Sarah Laker (left) with PG’s Jakki Brown (aka Mrs Tiggywinkle) at The Retas in the Beatrix Potter photo op created by N Smith. Below left: (right-left) The London Studio’s Soula Zavacoplous with drag DJ Remy Melee and PG’s Jakki Brown at the opening of Ryman Design’s new store in London’s Cheapside. Below: (second left)

Cornucopia’s Hannah Bishop (who has spoken out on shoplifting) with fellow indies Lovely Libby’s Libby and Tracy Holden (centre and far right) with PG&H’s Sue Marks (second right) and PG’s Jakki Brown at the Sundowners drinks at Harrogate Home & Gift.

CONTENTS

18 26

9-17 News

All the latest happenings and developments in the trade.

18-19 Over The Counter

The Greatest Hits

JP Pozzi’s David Robertson contemplates what are an indie’s ‘greatest hits’.

20-21 Cardsharp

Private Chancers

Cardsharp ponders on the ramifications of private equity.

23-25 Viewpoints

Prime Minister’s Question Time

Members of the greeting card community share what would be on their wishlist for the new government to help our industry, retailers, their business and them personally.

26-28 Caught On Camera

24 Carrot Gold

PG shares a photographic flavour of The Retas 2024 event that took on a Beatrix Potter theme.

Jakki Brown

Lomax

29-40 Winning Ways Very Happy Bunnies

The Retas 2024 winners in all their glory.

41-43 Retailer Reactions Pick of the Pops

From the wealth of newness at PG Live, in the second of a series, retailers reveal what ranges stood out from the crowd.

45-47 Innovations

Publishers’ new ranges and designs.

48-49 Retailing Issue (Shop)lifting The Lid

How something just has to be done to stop the shoplifting crisis.

51 Art Source Bright and Breeze-y

Artist and illustrator Georgia Frost (of Georgia Breeze fame) shares her creative journey so far.

52-53

What’s Hot?

A trio of retailers reveal their best-selling ranges.

54-63 Sources of Supply 45

Tracey Bearton Features Editor

TOP STORY

Winning Ways

Cardies did Beatrix Potter proud at The Retas

The UK’s very best greeting card retailers were officially recognised at The Retas 2024 greeting card retailer awards ceremony, which took place recently at The Grosvenor House Hotel in London’s Mayfair.

There were lots of happy tears, plenty of cheers and confetti canons galore as greeting card retail stockists from right across the retail spectrum were duly recognised, rewarded and celebrated at the Beatrix Potter themed event that was hosted by comedian and radio presenter Andrew Ryan and attended by some 400 greeting card retailers, publishers and suppliers.

Sam Ody has joined Cardzone

Former Tesco senior buying manager, Sam Ody has joined Cardzone, taking up the newly created role of head of buying for the retail group, with her buying remit also including Clintons.

Commenting on her new position, Sam told PG: “I was so determined to stay working in the industry as I love it so much – the people and the products. I am very excited to be joining Paul, James and the Cardzone team and to play a part in helping to drive it forward.”

Although Sam started officially on July 8, her appointment was made public at The Retas a few days before at which she went on stage to draw the charity raffle with her new job title being fanfared to all the guests.

Welcoming guests, PG’s co-owner Jakki Brown paid tribute to The Retas finalists and winners, saying: “Beatrix Potter was very much a woman ahead of her time. Today though, we are here to celebrate some rather special greeting card retailers who are very much of our time, and what a time it has been in the last year with the ongoing challenges of trade, with card retailers having to understand and anticipate the nuances of their customers’ tastes and needs as well as adapting to the challenges presented by the likes of changes in footfall, the Royal Mail issues and general cost-of-living constraints.”

Paying tribute to the finalists’ and winners’ tenacity, she added “just like The Flopsy Bunnies, whatever obstacles they have faced in the Mr McGregor’s garden of real life, they have bounced back, full of ‘hop’ and optimism!”

Topping out with the trophies was Postmark, as its rapid expansion over the past year or so to having 14 stores in London, Birmingham and Glasgow was recognised with both the Best Small Multiple award as well as the overall Greeting Card Retailer Of The Year title – clinching the brace for the second year running.

(Pics from The Retas and all the winners feature on pages 26-40)

acquires Pioneer Europe

In addition to the acquisition of Amscan (see above right), the party sector has seen two other changes over the past few weeks with Anagram acquiring the assets of Pioneer Europe, and Smiffys becoming part of the same Ad Populum group as giftware brand Enesco

Anagram’s president Jim Plutt said the company, which has been running for over 40 years, has established Anagram International as its new EMEA head office said: “We now plan to provide our partners in the EMEA region with the most comprehensive foil and latex balloon programmes. The experienced team from the former Pioneer Europe, located in Bishop’s Stortford, will lead this initiative, managing the distribution of Anagram’s and Pioneer’s product ranges across the EMEA region.”

Marie Gransbury, newly-appointed md at Anagram International trading as Anagram Europe, added: “I would like to start by thanking all of our

“I think we have drawn the lucky winning ticket with Sam now on board as part of our team,” said Paul Taylor, ceo of Cardzone at The Retas. “We are delighted that Sam has joined us to help drive our greeting card and gift buying as part of our future plans,” he added.

Amscan International bought from administrators

Amscan International and associated companies, including Ginger Ray and Christy’s By Design, have been bought by private equity company, Baaj Capital.

The deal was announced a day after James Clark and Will Wright, of Interpath Advisory had been appointed joint administrators of Amscan International Limited, Christy’s By Design Limited, Ginger Ray Limited and Party Delights Limited.

At the same time, James Clark and Howard Smith were appointed joint administrators to Wonder Group Bidco Limited and on 10 July, James Clark and Ryan Grant were appointed joint administrators to Amscan Holdco Limited.

The companies are part of The Wonder Group, the international wholesaler and retailer of costume, balloon and party products headquartered in Milton Keynes and with operations in markets including the US, Germany, Sweden, Malaysia, Australia and Hong Kong.

While 133 jobs have been saved as part of the deal, sadly 69 employees have been made redundant.

customers for their business over many years; your support and loyalty has been greatly valued. I am very pleased to say that we have been able to keep all employees as part of this acquisition process.”

Meanwhile, after dress-up specialist Smiffys (RH Smith & Sons) filed a notice of intention to appoint administrators, Ad Populum acquired the business.

In the definitive agreement Joel Weinshanker, md and founder of the company that owns brands including Enesco and Rubies II, NECA, WizKids and Kidrobot said: “Smiffys joins the Ad Populum group of fullservice, boots-on-the-ground brands that in this day and age are necessary to properly service our retail partners.”

Anagram

Above: Among The Retas winners were (left-right) Nor, Yarnton Home & Gift, Sainsbury’s, Waterstones and Cardfactory amid a confetti shower. Below: Newcomer contenders, Doodles Cards, Gifts and Balloons in Crowthorne entered into the Beatrix Potter spirit.

Above: A lot of change in the party arena recently.

Top: Sam Ody, head of buying at Cardzone with the company’s ceo, Paul Taylor at The Retas. Above: Sam is now head of buying for the Cardzone group, which also includes Clintons.

Karen Wilson Has Become Paper Salad’s Sole Owner

Co-founder Claire Williams will continue in a design capacity

In an amicable agreement, Claire Williams has decided for positive personal reasons to sell her shares in Paper Salad to her longstanding business partner and friend Karen Wilson, who is now the sole owner of the business.

Karen will continue as creative director, and the main designer for the company while Claire will retain her links with Paper Salad as she is to continue to assist in a design capacity, but will no longer be involved in the day-to-day running of the business.

Karen and Claire have worked together successfully for over 25 years, cofounding Paper Salad almost 20 years ago, establishing the multi-awardwinning publisher as the go-to for super bright designs and exquisite finishes on greeting cards as well spawning strong licensing partnerships, notably with Glick on giftwrappings.

Supporting Karen in taking Paper Salad forward is her son Jack, who has been working with the business for seven years and has now been appointed operations director.

The reasons for Claire’s decision were that she wanted to concentrate on her young son, her elderly mother and her new home that is in need of major restoration.

“I could see that Karen

had a natural line in Jack joining the business which has enabled me to confidently step away,” Claire said.

Commenting, Karen admitted that the period leading up to the deal being agreed was “really emotional”, recognising that she and Claire have “built this incredible business up over 20 years and are so proud of what we have achieved”.

Karen added that she fully accepts and supports Claire’s decision to leave the company and her reasons for doing it.

“Design is at the heart of what we do and, for that reason, Claire will be staying on in a design capacity. I will still see her on a weekly basis and know that she’ll be on hand to assist me with decision making as a friend whenever I need her.

Jellycat’s sales agents given notice

I’d also like to thank our agents, customers and distributors for their support on hearing the news.”

Trade suppliers pack an eco punch

Greeting card printers The Sherwood Group and Windles, plus board company Antalis have been packing a punch on the sustainable front in packaging with two golds and a trio of finalists’ places in the Environmental Packaging Awards 2024

The Sherwood Group won gold in the Online Retail category with its Flowers Hydration Pot, which it produced in collaboration with web-based flower shop Bunches, which has allowed it to save 5.4tonnes of plastic annually by eliminating plastic pots.

In the same sector Antalis was a finalist for its Delivery Packaging For Art Frames, and it topped that with the Household Goods gold for its retail packaging for door handles, as well as being a category finalist with its packaging for keyless locks, while Windles was a finalist with its Clive Christian Addictive Arts Carton in the Personal Care category.

“This is a great achievement for our team,” Richard Bacon, md of The Sherwood Group said, “and we have really enjoyed working with Bunches on this project. Their commitment to sustainability aligns perfectly with our values, and together, we have created a packaging solution that sets a new standard in the floral industry.”

Windles is well-known for its purpose-built carbonneutral HQ in Thame and multiple eco-friendly working practices and innovations.

Andrea Norcott, sales director said: “The fact our design has been recognised for its commitment to sustainability is reward enough.

“Clive Christian is a very high-end luxury company, creating some amazing fragrances and perfumes. Working with the team at Windles, the pack was developed to move away from a full mirri-based board structure, to a fully-recyclable Coldfoil solution. This allows the outer pack to be placed in to your local kerbside collection and turned back in to recycled paper and material.”

Plush company Jellycat has announced that all of its independent sales agents are to be replaced by an in-house team from the end of this year.

In a statement, the London-based company which is celebrating 25 years in business said: “Jellycat, the renowned luxury soft toy company, has implemented a strategic shift in its sales operations and decided as part of its broader business strategy to bring its sales team in-house.”

Prior to the statement being released, all independent sales agents who have been working with Jellycat were called to a meeting and told about the planned change.

“The transition to an in-house sales team aims to align Jellycat's sales organisation with rapidly-growing consumer demand, allowing the company to support its loyal customers with fully-dedicated teams,” said the statement from Jellycat.

The new in-house sales team will continue to be field-based “as Jellycat recognises the importance of nurturing inperson connections with its valued independent retailers, integral to the brand's success.

The brand's independent accounts are a vital part of the Jellycat family and Jellycat's dedication to supporting these important partners remains steadfast, with independents being front-of-mind for this new chapter.”

Above: Sherwood’s Chris Waplington with the printer’s gold award.

Above and right: Among Jellycat’s latest retail activations include an Amusables’ ‘Fish & Chips pop-up in Selfridges and a Patisserie in the FAO Schwartz store in Galeries Layfayette, Paris.

Above: Karen Wilson (left) and Claire Williams at the recent PG Live.

Above right: Colour Hub is one of Paper Salad’s current ranges, which has also spawned the licensed giftwrappings collection with Glick.

Below: Jack Wilson, who is now operations director of Paper Salad, with his mum and co-director Karen at The Henries.

TOYW’s 10th Anniversary Plans

Celebrations set for GCA AGM and Conference on Sept 19

Writing a card to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Thinking Of You Week will form part of the jampacked GCA Conference and AGM that takes place on Thursday 19 September, at the Harbour Hotel Bristol.

Bex Hassett is designing a special Bexy Boo card for every attendee, which is being kindly printed by Loxleys on G.F Smith board accompanied by a Cummins & Papyrus envelope, ready to be written and posted in a special postbox created by N Smith

“We want to highlight the 10th anniversary, and where better than at a gathering of the greeting card community,” GCA ceo Amanda Fergusson explained, “especially as the conference takes place during this year’s Thinking Of You Week, 16-22

September.

TOYW was launched in September 2014, inspired by member Len Smith who had sent 40 of his Leonard Smith Publishing cards just to say hello, or share a joke or memory with friends and family during Lent and mentioned to PG editor Jakki Brown and Sharon Little, ceo of the GCA at the time, the fantastic response he’d

Above: This year it’s the 10th anniversary of Thinking Of You Week.

Below: House of Cards is among the retailers who have Thinking of You Week.

Bottom: Len and Issy Smith inspired TOYW back in 2014.

received from the recipients.

This was then discussed at the GCA Council and how they could encourage others to reach out and spread joy by sending cards to people they care about without a special occasion.

Amanda Fergusson, now GCA ceo, but then a council member as sales director at Caroline Gardner, remembered: “There was a real enthusiasm in the room for an idea that resonated with all ages and communities. The consensus was we needed an idea that everyone could get involved in and Thinking Of You Week was born.”

The TOYW website shares information on the event and has free downloadable toolkits (www.thinkingofyouweek.cards)

Ship shape Bristol fashion

Plans are well underway for the GCA Conference and AGM on Thursday 19 September, at the Harbour Hotel Bristol, and the networking drinks the evening before, kindly sponsored by Ling Design and Emotional Rescue, next door to the venue at Dirty Martini Bristol from 6pm.

The agenda includes keynote speakers James Taylor, commercial director of Cardzone, who will be talking about family-run Cardzone’s evolution including its acquisition of Clintons as well as his predications about the retail landscape; Jon Hendy, Kantar’s business unit director will deliver 2024 consumer insights; David Gold, Royal Mail’s director of external affairs will be sharing Royal Mail’s plans while Ohh Deer co-founder and md Mark Callaby; James Ellis owner James Stevens will be sharing their respective stories. To book tickets head to www.gca.cards

Royal rendezvous and B Corp cert

It’s been a busy time for Wrendale Designs with its head of sales Lisa Marcuccio off to meet the King and the business celebrating becoming B Corp certified.

Lisa’s royal rendezvous was down to the greeting card, gift and homeware business earning a King’s Award for Enterprise, the UK’s most prestigious business recognition. Lisa attended a reception at Windsor Castle hosted by King Charles III for companies recognised in the May announcement, the second time Wrendale’s coowners Hannah and Jack Dale have been recognised, having previously received a Queen’s Award in 2019.

This follows hot on the heels of the company’s B Corp certification, as part of its ongoing commitment to sustainability.

“This is a huge milestone for our company,” Hannah Dale said, “and it demonstrates our ongoing commitment to ensuring that our business positively impacts our customers, our community, our colleagues and the planet.”

Sad death of Abigail Mill

Textile and embroidery artist Abigail Mill, well known for her work in the greeting card and gift world and widely loved for her gentle, kind nature, has died following a brain tumour diagnosis earlier this year. As well as her own greeting card designs, Abigail forged licensing links, including with Emma Ball Paying tribute, Emma described Abigail as: “A force of nature, a shining star of positivity, kind, loyal, beautiful, humble, talented and an amazing friend, colleague, mother and artist. It was truly an honour to work with her the past eight years.”

Abbi posted on social media about her illness, telling the followers in March that “I have a couple of brain tumours…never done anything by halves!”

Above: The Wrendale family are proud of the B Corp certification.

Below: Lisa Marcuccio meeting the King at Windsor Castle.

Above: Publisher Emily Nash has illustrated this year’s branding.

Below: Royal Mail’s David Gold (left), Cardzone’s James Taylor (right) and Kantar’s Jon Hendy.

Above: Abigail developed a distinctive technique of layering hand-dyed printed cottons, combined with freemotion machine embroidery to create landscapes and other imagery.

Ready to find your

24-26 September

TOP STORY

Fifth Ryman Design Store

Retailer’s glitzy City of London opening

Ryman Design opened its latest store in the heart of London’s City, in a unit that was previously a Paperchase store. This is the fifth under the new designled retail brand and greeting cards feature much more prominently than in all the existing stores, alongside an extensive selection of design-led stationery.

With the store opening coinciding with International Drag Day, drag DJ Remy Melee added to the glamour and buzzy atmosphere as trading got underway with aplomb, with a juggler and the chance to win lots of prizes, helping to draw people in.

Ryman owner and former TV dragon Theo Paphitis said: “I’m thrilled to be adding another Ryman Design store to the estate, this time in the heart of Cheapside. Ryman Design is all about inspiring creativity with design-led cards, gifts and stationery, and opening the store at such a vibrant time of celebration was a no-brainer for me”. He confirmed that “because of the fantastic response, I'm looking forward to launching more!” about the expansion of the design specialist offshoot of the stationery retailer that was founded in 1893 that now has almost 200 stores.

bays, flanking the entire left wall from the front of the store right through to some of the back wall, under the eyecatching card sending phrases of ‘Better than a text’ and ‘Send some smiles’. The front six bays were dedicated to the exclusive The London Studio Artists Collective greeting cards, which features designs from the 100 artists, designers and publishers that make up The London Studio ‘family’, spearheaded by founder Soula Zavacopoulos. Soula, as well as several designers/publishers who are part of The London Studio Artists Collective were there for the opening. Jessie Maeve of Jessie Maeve Studio said: “This is such an amazing store in which greeting cards really come to life, and I am so happy my designs feature among such a strong selection.”

Another of The London Studio’s brands, Art of Drag also features in the store on an exclusive range of specially-designed greeting cards, stationery and giftware.

Hallmark crowns New Designers

Hallmark has connected with top creative graduates, picking two winners for the Hallmark Connection Awards, as part of its 29th year sponsorship of the New Designers show.

“That connection could be emotional, philosophical, visual, planet-friendly, metaphorical, technical, physical, etc,” Hallmark’s creative development officer Eve Gray said. “We were looking for something that holds magic while aligning with Hallmark’s brand vision and business values.”

The Bradfordbased publisher had a team of judges, led by creative director Rachel Goodman, along with key staff from the company’s Future Squad who work on the graduate programme.

Eve added: “With over 200 universities exhibiting over 3,000 graduates there was a lot to see, discuss and select from. Alongside finding the winners we also look for other interesting designers, illustrators and makers who we’d like to work with as the Future Squad or who we feel would be great for Hallmark’s customer teams as new visual handwriting/commercial potential.”

The Hallmark winner chosen from Week 1 was Charlotte Brooke, who is a textile design graduate from Edinburgh College of Art. Eve said: “Charlotte’s work was a beautifully-crafted collection of hand-beaded ephemera and silk scarves, based on a travel scholarship spent in Italy.”

For Week 2, Olivia Gonsalves was picked, a product and furniture design graduate from London Metropolitan University. Olivia’s work was a furniture collection that told the story of the evolution of organic matter from coal to wood to paper over 300 million years.

Both winners have earned an internship in Hallmark’s creative studio.

The greeting card selection in the new Ryman Design store spans 16

As Soula added: “I’m thrilled to be collaborating with Ryman and love seeing our new Art Of Drag Pride Collection in stores as well as so many of our other fabulous artists’ designs.”

Talking Tables’ survey unwraps birthday trends

Having debuted its expansion into giftwrappings at PG Live, Talking Tables has revealed findings of a survey into the public’s birthday and celebration trends.

Sending a card came up as the most popular way to wish someone a happy birthday with nearly half (42%) of respondents choosing this above all others, compared to around a third, (35%), who used WhatsApp or text messages, and only 5% who opted for a phone call.

Sustainability is a top priority for consumers when it comes to celebrating birthdays with three-quarters (75%) of respondents actively considering sustainability in their gifting and party choices.

Nearly all parents (98%) decorate their homes for their children’s birthdays, with balloons (92%), birthday banners (85%), and bunting (57%) being the top choices of decor.

More than two-thirds (68%) of respondents admitted they had a stash of birthday supplies like wrapping paper, candles and decorations, they brought out for each birthday, with only 18% saying they purchase new each time. And this is likely to include candles with a full twothirds (66%) of people saying they use birthday candles again and again.

Left: The 5th Ryman Design store opened in London’s City.

Below: Drag DJ Remy Melee in front of The London Studio Artists Collective card display.

Above: Week 1 winner, Charlotte Brooks (centre) with Hallmark’s Rachel Goodman (left).

Left: Week 2 winner, Olivia Gonsalves on one of her chairs.

Above: Talking Tables has researched into how we make birthdays special.

TOP STORY

Belly Button Giftware’s Debut

Publisher’s 30th anniversary marked with significant investment

It’s been 18 months in the making, with Belly Button Giftware, a new sibling company to Belly Button Designs debuting successfully at the Harrogate Home & Gift show.

“We’ve come out of the shadows with a bang,” Rachel Hare, founder of Belly Button Designs said of the new significant thrust into design-led giftware. “It is very exciting to be marking our 30th anniversary with the launch of a new company, representing our largest investment to date,” added Rachel.

Belly Button has dipped its toe into gifting over the last few years, with giftwrappings, mugs, stationery and latterly jewellery under its Belly Button Bubble brand, but this launch is so much more extensive, spanning 175 SKUs across eight different ‘stories’ - six for everyday, one for Autumn/Winter and one for Christmas (which includes several different looks).

“We have expanded from solely stationery and mugs into some new gifting categories which includes extending our Borosilicate glass collection, more home fragranced products, beautiful floral socks and female accessories such as a pouch bag and compact mirror as well as ceramics, including jugs, hanging decorations, trinkets and tokens,” explained Rachel. “We are aiming to fill a gap

in the market with beautiful sustainable design-led giftware from a brand with 30 years’ experience with a loyal independent customer base,” she added.

Sustainability was a major consideration when developing the Belly Button Giftware collection, with plastic-free packaging, laminate-free giftbags and notepads, socks made from bamboo, and all packaging both into the company and out to customers being fully recyclable.

The vast majority of the giftware products will retail under that £20 sweet spot for indies.

However, the diversification into giftware does not mean that Belly Button will be turning its back on greeting cards.

“Far from it, greeting cards are our heritage and have been the inspiration for many of the designs in our new gifting company. We have lots of big plans for Belly Button Designs in the pipeline for greeting cards to be unveiled in the fullness of time,” Rachel added.

Paper Tiger roars with store four opening in Edinburgh’s Stockbridge

The Paper Tiger ‘pride’ has grown again, with the opening of its fourth store in Edinburgh. Paper Tiger, which has been a retailing institution in the Scottish capital for over 40 years, opened a new shop in the

Make your #Cardmitment

Retailers and publishers are already gearing up ready to build on the success of the GCA #Cardmitment campaign and promote the sending of cards, particularly at Christmas.

Back by popular demand, 5,000 festive toolkit packs are being printed, thanks to the generosity of Graphite Creative , and will be distributed to retail customers by Abacus Cards , Belly Button Designs , Caroline Gardner , Emotional Rescue , GBCC/Ling Design , Hallmark , Ohh Deer , Paperlink , Paper Salad , Raspberry Blossom , Ricicle Cards , Second Nature , Stormy Knight , and UK Greetings , as well as buying group Cardgains, and retailer Cardzone

The packs include a flyer explaining about the campaign, posters reminding people to spread some joy by sending Christmas cards, and a tent card showing the last posting dates – and the toolkit has been updated by Stormy Knight ’s Sarah Jackson, who created the original designs, changing the Second Class stamp price to 85p.

Retailers can request them direct from the GCA by emailing adriana@gca.cards.

desirable Stockbridge district, with its product selection including around 600 greeting card designs, as well as an extensive range of stationery, gifts and a ‘Great Wall of Chocolate’ products.

Owner Michael Apter’s aim is: “to provide an atmospheric space to showcase our ranges, support local artists and makers, and create new jobs in the area.”

Michael revealed that the location is “very special” to him, explaining that he “lived in Stockbridge for many, many years, my eldest daughter grew up here and attended Stockbridge Primary School. I have very happy memories of pushing her along Raeburn Place in her buggy. I now live just a few minutes’ walk from our new shop and Stockbridge is a big part of my family life”.

Far left: The new Paper Tiger store in Edinburgh’s Stockbridge.

Left: Michael Apter settles into store number four.

Left: A selection of products from Belly Button Giftware’s Botanique collection.

Below: Rachel Hare (left) and her daughter Daisy on the Belly Button Giftware stand at Harrogate Home & Gift.

Bottom: Bamboo socks is a new product area for Belly Button.

Above: Heidi Early of Earlybird said that sales increased at Earlybird as a result of the 2023 Cardmitment campaign.

Below: Posters from the toolkit extol the love of Christmas cards.

DAVID ROBERTSON

The Greatest Hits

In the last few weeks I have swaggered through Liam Gallagher singing Live Forever in Manchester, swayed through Robbie Williams belting out Angels in Hyde Park and have saluted AC/DC powering through Thunderstruck at Wembley. As a rapidly approaching 50 year old male, all of these bands were the soundtrack of my teenage and early 20 something years. As I lapped up their respective greatest hits, it got me thinking about our stores. What are the greatest hits that we perform to keep our fans happy?

All of the singers and bands that I have seen in concert recently, are iconic in terms of their music, their clothes, their attitude and each of these legends delivered what everyone wanted…the hits! Song after song, it was hit after hit, with each one being sung loudly back at them by a crowd of a certain age. As Robbie put it: “you are all looking a lot more mumsy than you did in the 90s”!

So, as a retailer, what do we need to provide to make sure our customers want to come back to see us time and again. Quite simply we need to make sure we get our hits right. We have to be fully aware of the ‘songs’ that we have to play.

LET ME ENTERTAIN YOU…

As retailers our stock selection needs to be considered, presented well and with a shopfloor knowledge that will enhance the overall shopping experience. We need to be constantly changing and moving stock around to keep the store feeling fresh, although this applies more to gifting than cards. That said on cards, highlighting a new company or artist can be a cool thing to do.

LIVE FOREVER...

Greeting cards really can offer everything to a store, they are likely to be your greatest hits. Cards are beloved by the British public young and old and that love affair doesn’t seem to wane. Just like an Oasis song, it

can be a 10 year old boy or a 70 year old grandad and none of them ‘look back in anger’.

While card publishers’ designs change with the latest trends in colours, titles, motifs – be it unicorns, llamas or mushrooms – their ‘core lyrics’ serve the same purpose of telling someone that you’re thinking about them, congratulating them, consoling them. They feed the very basics of what we are as people and their effect is anthemic.

Cards have always quickly

reflected the world we are in right now and they continue to evolve, duly largely to a group of talented artists and designers.

We have dealt with a number of card companies for many, many years. This relationship has been one of trust and one in which we and they have evolved together.

Over the years it has been exciting to be part of their journey. It can be as simple as seeing one company delivering one range to scratch a lifetime itch or it can be a Five Dollar Shake bringing us cards on amazing boards and wonderful designs time and time again over decades.

It can also be about loving some card companies, but in the end realising they won’t work for you.

Now many of you reading this won’t have a greeting card stock control as such. You may be a contemporary store with a smallish card selection that covers the major life events.

A proper large stock control though features everything from the birth to death and all points in between. It is effectively a greatest hits album!

A proper card control is a fantastic thing; a considered mix that appeals to your customers. Ours features many classic hits,

Above: Some 85,000 people went to Wembley to see ACDC bang out their greatest hits. Below right: Angels is just one of many of Robbie Williams’ greatest hits.

Below: Robbie Williams has kept his millions of fans, by knowing what they want…his hits.

but at the same time showcases the new product that continues to come through.

We are currently changing all three of our card controls for the first time almost at once.

We do things slightly differently with all three of our stores. We have two shops literally across the road from one another with over 130ft of planned space, and due to changes within card company structures we need to change our card selections as they are becoming too similar.

Each store is different in its feel, its customer base and indeed what it can and cannot sell.

With this being the case we set about thinking about each store and then drew up a shortlist of companies for each store.

We looked at elements such as the publisher’s designs, price points, customer service, local area support, and also if they were stocked in supermarkets/multiples.

In addition, two of our stores also have a large selection of smaller/handmade publishers. This of course changes the look and feel instore as well. We mix these up often although a bit like any great musical act there are some publishers that simply have to remain in the playlist.

Traditionally stock control systems were the domain of UKG and Hallmark, but now that so many companies offer this service or brokerage the choice is much greater.

For the first time we have really broken our card selection down into sections as well as bringing in certain publishers for only their speciality areas for example Danilo for children’s ages or Emotional Rescue and Pigment for humour.

Our new setlist for our main Buckie store will be a traditional/contemporary control with UKG, Woodmansterne, Five Dollar, Belly Button and White Cotton, along with a lot of smaller publishers.

Our small traditional Buckie card shop will feature IC&G, Cherry Orchard, Jonny Javelin, Second Nature and some smaller companies specifically at a cheaper price point while our Elgin store will have elements of both.

Our first new control will be installed in September we hope we are ‘in tune’ and see an uplift in sales and customer satisfaction.

YOU’VE BEEN THUNDERSTRUCK…

While changing our card selection is something we can control, we are often at the mercy of forces far greater than us –including local councils.

All across the UK retail is at the mercy of groups of people that supposedly care about the High Street and protecting it, yet they make some strange decisions.

We are shortly awaiting major disruption of gas works in Elgin in our street that are going to happen in the peak summer/tourist months. How does that make sense?

Glasgow among others has also been badly hit with soaring parking costs while ULEZ schemes in various locations are also causing havoc. Now some of you will say this will benefit our long term health, but in real terms most city centres or certainly small towns don’t have the connectivity and we need to make getting in and out of them easy. Do councils purely think about hitting the emissions targets regardless of the businesses that are there.

Planning permission is also often given to out of town shops or new centres without any consideration to the ones that are already there. Little help is given to revamp old buildings or get second and third floors above shops into productive use.

I could go on, and it is part of the ‘rock n roll’ lifestyle of being a retailer, but it’s not always a sweet song to sing.

In Aberdeen they are dealing with the implementation of complicated bus lanes/gates which has seen city centre footfall fall by over 500,000 in less than a year.

So, our greatest hits are to make people feel welcome, make it easy for them to come in and navigate the space. Offer products that are attractive and affordable. The only way to make sure that you can let people hear your songs is to sing at the top of your voice, straining every note to put your point across.

Do they feel scaring people that they may take a wrong turn and cost themselves £100 is the right way to encourage people to shop in person in towns?

I believe that good retail, good cards and different gifts are just like AC/DC’s Back in Black or Robbie’s Angels or Oasis’ Rock ‘n’ Roll Star - they are the songs that will never die and they are the things that people will keep wanting to hear, we just have to keep getting them to buy tickets to our gig… l To contact David email: jppozzi@btconnect.comz

Right: Two industry rockers, PG’s Warren Lomax (right) with David Robertson at the recent Harrogate Home & Gift show.

Below right: David Robertson with music legend Clint Boon, best known for being keyboard player and vocalist of Inspiral Carpets.

Below: David feels Five Dollar Shake is one publisher that continues to release ‘hit after hit’.

Above: David was among the throngs at this ACDC concert.

Private Chancers

UK as never before. Cardsharp ponders on the long-term ramifications of this trend for both retailing and the greeting card industry generally.

Remember Paperchase? Who could forget it? A decade ago it was a retail brand that all of us in the greeting card trade could be really proud. Exciting, design-led stationery and greeting cards in abundance, with well over 100 stores at its peak. It was then subsequently passed from pillar to post by a succession of private equity owners, before finally and briefly ending up in the hands of an individual investor, who was clearly intent on capturing the Christmas till sales, and then running away and avoiding the liabilities.

Where is Paperchase now, mused Cardsharp? Now, it’s just a brand on the shelves of Tesco and not a very prominent one at that.

To Cardsharp’s mind Paperchase’s demise as a standalone retailer is just one of the casualties of an iniquitous form of ownership we know as private equity.

In simple terms, private equity describes investment partnerships that buy and manage companies before selling them. Private equity firms operate these investment funds on behalf of institutional and accredited investors. They buy companies and overhaul them to earn a hefty profit when the business is sold. And the purchase is supplemented by debt.

Yes debt! And this is big time leveraged debt.

In theory, this is great, especially for the private equity owners. No corporation tax

There is also a history of private equity owners slashing costs and sacking workers in a bid to maximise short term profits, and then flipping the business to a new owner. All this without concern for the long-term future. And as many of these private equity funds are US-owned they have little affinity with the historic nature of the brands they have acquired.

The last 15 years has seen a huge increase in the size of pie now in the hands of private equity within the UK. With interest rates low, borrowing money for acquisitions has been cheap. Retail companies have been particularly attractive targets, especially the ones which owned their own sites. How easy to sell the real estate onto a third party, pocket the profit and lease back the sites.

Cardsharp thinks back to the department store chain, Debenhams. Having been

Inset: She was simply the best, but Cardsharp has a somewhat lower opinion of private equity companies.

low margin highly competitive market like grocery. Asda used to use low prices as its ‘brand’, but how can it do that now, when it can’t possibly compete with debt free cash rich, privately-owned companies like Lidl or Aldi or Tesco and Sainsbury’s, with their larger economies of scale and access to stockmarket funding.

And with the cost of borrowing likely to remain high, the situation is surely going to worsen.

privately owned for years, under private equity 23 stores were sold, then leased back from the owners, launched on the stock exchange, saddled the company with £1billion worth of debt, and then inevitably went into liquidation. And this was not an isolated example.

As well as the aforementioned Paperchase, add to the list Toys R Us, Maplins, Poundland and HMV. All went to the wall, although the latter is now happily back in private ownership.

There is the odd PE success story, B&M comes to mind, but Cardsharp thinks this is the exception that proves the rule. In fact, 10 of the 14 largest retail bankruptcies have been private equity owned.

And from here on, Cardsharp thinks it is going to get worse. The era of near zero interest rates and cheap finance on which the rise and rise of private equity was built, has come to an end. And this means crippling extra costs as debt becomes more and more expensive. This has led to predictions of potential systemic failures across the board, with a plethora of potentially failed assets that no one wants.

But the two examples that interest Cardsharp the most are the UK’s third, and until recently, fourth largest supermarket chains - Asda and Morrisons.

Both are now privately equity owned. And both are major retailers of greeting cards and giftwrap.

Asda, formerly owned by US giant Walmart, and the third largest supermarket chain, was bought in 2021 by the Issa brothers, two highly successful petrol forecourt moguls. Asda was valued at £6.8 billion, but the Issa brothers reportedly paid only £780 million of this. Where did the rest

of the money come from? You guessed it, private equity. Amazingly, it later emerged that the brothers’ contribution was just £200 million. Little wonder then that Asda has had to sell off assets and has struggled to compete against its larger and smaller rivals since.

By contrast, the Morrisons private equity buyer was Clayton, Dubiler and Rice (CD&R), a massive US-owned fund. Interestingly CD&R also owns American Greetings and its UK operation, UKG (and

So, Cardsharp reflects, how does this affect the greeting card industry, both for suppliers and retailers?

Paperchase’s double demise led to huge losses for many publishers, some of whom are still feeling the long-term effects two years down the line.

And the supermarket sector has become enormously important for so many greeting card publishers, and Morrisons and Asda, although smaller in card sales than Tesco and Sainsbury’s are still significant players. Their future health is of vital importance. If, God forbid, one or both, went into administration, this would be terrible in the short term for bad debt and long term, for distribution. Or what if one or both were to be bought by Lidl or Aldi, who traditionally have had a limited interest in our greeting card sector.

thankfully have left them well alone).

CD&R paid a massive £7.6 billion for Morrisons, when it was previously valued at £4.5 billion. Now that interest rates have risen, it is struggling even more than Asda. Last year it made a massive loss of £1billion, partly because of high debt financing costs and it lost its position as number four in the supermarket stakes to Aldi.

Both Asda and Morrisons, once viewed as cash cows, now have far too much debt, especially in a

And if some of the private equity owned retail chains failed, how would this affect indies? Would the empty units be attractive to entrepreneurial independent retailers with the inevitable fall in rents that would follow? Or would the empty units further hollow out shopping areas so much, that it would result in a drop in footfall and encourage a gravitation towards online shopping.

Cardsharp has no crystal ball and does not pretend to know the answers. Only that he thinks, that even with a UK economy that might be growing slowly, private equity owned retail will be increasingly stressed. And that a fallout is coming.

Is private equity ownership in bricks and mortar retail, a form of ‘Casino Capitalism’, or a legitimate instrument of a free market economy? Private Chancers or as Tina Turner sang ‘Private Dancers’?

Above: Both Morrisons and Asda are in the hands of private equity.

Below: Cardsharp wishes he had a crystal ball to see the future.

Prime Minister’s Question Time

those from the greeting card community what would be on their wishlist for the new Cabinet to help our industry, the retailing community, their business and them personally.

Seth Woodmansterne,

managing director of Woodmansterne Publications

“Regardless of political persuasions, aren’t we all looking for some stability, sensible government and genuine clear leadership for these tumultuous times? My perennial complaint with our politics is how short-term and wayward the focus can be – we have big challenges (the economy, NHS, taxes and costs, war, climate change etc) that need long-term, creative thinking and diligent delivery.”

Industry Wishes: “Despite our brilliant efforts as a GCA, Ofcom is failing in its duty as Ombudsman to uphold the public service commitment of the Royal Mail. By sitting idly by, Ofcom is allowing Royal Mail’s continued poor performance to erode public trust. We now look to this new government to prioritise our vital public postal service. Warm words from a prospective new owner are not enough to rescue this!”

Retailer Wishes: “It’s been a long time coming, but we need the new government to deliver a modified business rates system that puts right the current imbalance of tax for retailers vs their contribution to the UK economy.”

Personal Wishes: “Having just become a father for the first time, I know more than ever that we need positivity and leadership to ensure a safe and fun future for the next generations!”

Michael Apter,

owner of Paper Tiger, four shops in Edinburgh

Industry Wishes: “Resolve the Royal Mail situation and protect the USO.”

Retailer Wishes: “The top one has to be to reform business rates across the whole of the UK. It would be helpful if the threshold for Corporation Tax for SMEs was raised, National Insurance contributions for SMEs were reduced, and there were fair business energy price caps. And in terms of stimulating growth and consumer confidence - what about a VAT drop!?”

Your Business Wishes: “All of the above, plus to see a better working relationship with the government at Holyrood to ensure that UK government initiatives are passed onto Scottish businesses, which was not the case through the pandemic.”

Personal Wishes: “The 'growth' agenda in the manifesto needs to deliver visible prosperity in every community. Here in Scotland, some of the key policy areas are devolved to Holyrood which has a SNP majority. There have been significant problems with the relationship between Westminster and Holyrood and it was something of a relief to see Keir Starmer visit all of the Home Nations as soon as he could. I have school age children, a daughter in her twenties, and increasingly elderly parents and in-laws. Across the UK, the NHS needs a complete overhaul of systems and procedures to focus on health and wellbeing and bring the organisation into the 21st century. The education system, from nursery through to post-graduate study needs a more coherent and considered approach to the curriculum and skills gaps, but also needs to deliver inclusive basic schooling that works for children from every background and develops future citizens. Young people need access to affordable property for rental or purchase. Prosperity. Health and wellbeing. Education. Affordable homes. These are actions that can begin to heal a society that has struggled to be decent to themselves and each other over the past decade or so.”

Above: Seth Woodmansterne with his baby son. Left: Like many others, Seth seeks assurance from the Government to prioritise our vital public postal service.

Above: Michael calls for a better working relationship between Westminister and the Scottish Parliament in Holyrood (pictured).

Below: Michael Apter and colleagues outside a Paper Tiger shop celebrating National Stationery Week.

VIEWPOINTS

Rosie Tate, director of Cath Tate Cards

“I would like someone in government to stand on a chair with a megaphone and announce to the whole of the UK exactly how much money Brexit has cost the UK economy. In fact, what would be great is if they could print that figure on a bus and drive it up and down the country as part of a campaign to get the UK public to realise what a huge financial mistake Brexit has been, for all of us.”

Industry Wishes: “Government, please don’t completely privatise the postal service, we need it and there’s no money in letters for commercial companies, but people need letters in their lives, which includes sending greeting cards!”

Retailer Wishes: “It was a good idea to raise the Minimum Wage in April this year, everyone likes to pay their staff more - however for retailers it would be good if the government contributed towards this increased cost. Retailers were expected to cover the cost of the increased Minimum Wage without any government tax breaks or subsidies to help them do this.”

Personal Wishes: “I’d like to see some massive investment in renewable energy, so we are done and dusted with fossil fuels as soon as possible. The future for my kids has to be green, there is no other way, no planet B folks!”

Alex

Taylor, marketing manager of Cardzone

Richard

Pass of STL Agency, independent sales agent covering the north

Industry Wishes: “To help combat the issues of mental health which is a huge concern for the government by looking at an initiative to support the sending of greeting cards across the UK.

Ensuring that schools support Thank you Teacher and Back to School. It was extremely disappointing to hear that in Scotland, schools told kids and parents not to give gifts to thank teachers.”

Retailer Wishes: “Reduce or eradicate parking charges to encourage customer footfall on the high street.

To encourage workers to be back in the office more and reducing working from home to again drive footfall on the high street.

Support with fair business rates.”

Ceri Stirland, ceo of UK Greetings

“I am excited by a fresh approach, a change, a new start!”

Your Business Wishes: “As a northernbased company, I hope there is more support locally as investment into local infrastructure is critical, along with support for more green technologies and sustainable business practices. One example is solar power, we want to install

Industry Wishes: “Any government should take control of the basics, by that I mean water, energy etc. But crucial is the basic right of everyone to write a letter or greeting card and it be posted and arrive on time. The Royal Mail should be owned by the government, not by an entrepreneur with the financial rewards as his benchmark. Sorry, rant over!”

Retailer Wishes: “By subsidising the local councils to give two hours of free parking in every town. This will increase footfall, helping retailers etc. Encourage the consumer to shop locally and everyone wins.”

Your Business Wishes: “See previous answer, plus reduce the ridiculous tax on fuel so we can all afford to drive to the local shops!”

Personal Wishes: “Whatever they do, do it honestly and with integrity. That will reduce the negative vibe and help create a positive feeling that everything will get better. This helps everyone.”

solar panels, but investment and grants for renewable energy sources have been limited –maybe this will change now. Enhancing the local workforce through education and training is critical and looking at ways to use apprenticeship levies on a wider array of training, not just for apprenticeships.”

Above: The Brexit decision continues to cause immense problems for trade, as this Cath Tate card design exemplifies.

Below: Rosie (right) with Cath Tate, her mum and founder of the company.

Above: A graphic from UKG’s website which details the company’s commitment to sustainability.

Left: Ceri Stirland is excited by the promise of change.

Above: Everyone would love a high street as busy as this scene in Buxton.

Below: Richard Pass (centre) with (second left) his wife Suzanne with (left-right) Hallmark’s Chris Thiede, Graeme Karavis and Stationery Supplies’ Sarah Laker at last year’s GCA Conference and AGM.

Above: Alex Taylor with her brother James, trading director of Cardzone.

Right: Measures to reduce or eradicating parking charges would significantly help retailers.

Mark Williams, co-founder of Brainbox Candy

Industry Wishes: “Freezing the price of stamps would be a starting point. We have seen the price of a 1st class stamp, jump from 76p to £1.35 in the last four years. Christmas card sales in particular are suffering as a result of the increases.”

Retailer Wishes: “Take action to reduce business rates. The profit margin for card and gift retailers like all industry sectors have been squeezed due to price increases and softening the blow with reduced rates could help keep the doors open for retailers.”

Your Business Wishes: “As above really stamp prices and business rates would be a great starting point.

If Corporation Tax was lowered as a business we could be in a better position to invest in the business and grow it, which would result in more jobs.

With the exception of taking action on the price of stamps, reducing tax will be a tough one to execute, as there is bugger all left in the country’s coffers, so it’s likely going to be like my favourite dessert, a Rocky Road!”

Allen Taylor, sales director of International Cards & Gifts

Industry Wishes: “Support with the Royal Mail and improving the service and reviewing cost of first and second-class stamps, or maybe offering some form of discount for card shops to buy stamps and sell to the end user cheaper if they buy a card.”

Retailer Wishes: “Business rates support is number one. Also, many retailers are suffering while the regeneration of town centres is underway so some form of grant to support the loss of footfall while work is being completed would be helpful. While I appreciate retailers will see the benefit when the works are completed will the retailer survive until then. Finally, scrapping the repayment of Covid grant repayments.”

Your Business Wishes: “Again, business rates support, support in reducing electric costs in manufacturing.”

Personal Wishes: “As a company car driver, please reduce company car tax - this is not a benefit in kind, it’s a tool of the job.

There are still challenges with electric vehicles with cost of electricity for charging, lack of infrastructure for charging points - and don’t get me started on potholes and the state of our roads.”

Meg Hawkins, founder and creative maestro of Meg Hawkins Art

Industry Wishes: “More international funding to help us reach more custom abroad, make it easier to ship to say Northern Ireland. Grants for SMEs to attend trade shows will encourage start-ups, which would mean the trade shows will get bigger and the shops will be encouraged to take on new stockists.”

Retailer Wishes: “Bring down rents and business rates. Cancel parking fees for town centre car parks to encourage customers to come into towns or offer free park and ride. Make train services free at the weekend.”

Your Business Wishes: “Help with importing and exporting trade missions, funding to help employment, better interest rates on loans and overdrafts to enable to pay back affordably. Banks to 'open up' to loan money again. Help rural business with simple things like, internet service. Acknowledge that all small businesses need funding not just those in built up areas, we are rural and seem to get forgotten about.”

Personal Wishes: “Lower Corporation Tax and VAT rates and instigate special fuel rates for businesses.”

Above: Brainbox Candy’s co-owners Mark Williams (right) and Ben Hickman at the recent PG Live.

Right: Mark foresees a Rocky Road ahead!

Above: The new Govt should do more to help SMEs on import and export missions.

Below: Meg Hawkins in Hillier’s Weyhill Garden Centre.

Above right: Could the Govt consider reducing the costs of stamps for card shops?

Above: Allen Taylor calls for a reduction in company car tax.

While taking place the same day as the General Election, the votes had been counted for The Retas 2024 as the winners of these prestigious greeting card retailer awards were revealed at what was a joyful unified party of 400 publishers, retailers and trade suppliers. PG hopped along to the Beatrix Potter-themed event to enjoy the camaraderie.

Inset, right and below right: The tables exuded Beatrix Potter wonderfulness with Peter Rabbit and Flopsy Bunny plush placecards from Rainbow Designs, Beatrix Potter books (donated by Penguin) holding the menus, lovely scented soap (donated by Toasted Crumpet) and the finalists’ brochure.

Below: Guests made the most of the Mr. McGregor’s Garden photo op, created by N Smith with Red Card’s Sally Matson (right), Karen West (left) and Stationery Supplies’ Sarah Laker embracing the fun.

Left: Quick witted comedian and radio presenter Andrew Ryan was the host of The Retas.

Right: (left-right) Wendy JonesBlackett and Jacqui Godlove (Wendy Jones-Blackett); Jane Hunnam and Sarah Harvey (Zest) with Hugs & Kisses’ Caroline and Jon Ranwell in the reception.

Right: Medici’s Tim Reynolds (right) and Charlie Wheatley enjoying some gardening with Creative Cove’s Sandra Jervis.

Below: Cardzone’s Paul Taylor (left) and Emotional Rescue’s David Greaves

Above: PG’s Jakki Brown on stage with giant Golden and Silver Tickets that all winners and finalists of The Retas will receive, worth £150 and £75 respectively to spend at PG Live 2025.

Above right: Celebrations’ Sonya Haandrikman Sibbald (right) and Heather Hodgson with UKG’s Matt James.

Right: (left-right) Nigel Willcock (agent), Emma Davies (British Garden Centres), Belly Button’s Michelle Hindle, Rachel Hare and Mark Matulka; Lucilla Lavender’s Tania Pavlova, Anneke Driscoll and Lucilla Lavender with Evelyn Chiu of British Garden Centres.

Right: As ever, agent Ian Bradley was a happy bunny.

Below: Cath Tate Cards’ Rosie Tate (left) was on watering duty while colleague Amy Woodrow-Arai pulled some carrots!

Left: At what was (far right) Kate Leach’s last Retas as Woodmansterne’s head of marketing before she leaves to pursue her design career, she enjoyed her time with colleague Andy Paterson (second right) and Haskins’ buying director Andy Harriss and buyer Vicky Moore.

Left: Ohh Deer’s Jamie Mitchell in a Utility sandwich with Kate Cowie (left) and Steph Lloyd. Right: (right-left) Tesco’s Ross Lasseter and Victoria Cracknell with UKG’s Demi Watson and Ceri Stirland.

Left: Danilo’s Daniel Prince with colleagues (left-right) Julie Shelton, Angela Anderson and Words N Wishes’ Alison Traynor.

ever

Below: It was a hat trick of a day for Strickland and Holt’s Bryony Richardson (left) and Mishi Holt (right) as they not only took home a trophy, but they also won two prizes in The

Left and right: In keeping with tradition, the event started with a fun ice-breaker ‘higher or lower’ elimination quiz, with questions loosely linked to Beatrix Potter and her characters which was sponsored by Pigment. The winner was Raspberry Blossom’s Mark Green (right), who was presented with his prize of a magnum of champagne and Beatrix Potter goodies by Steve Baker (far right), sales and marketing director of Pigment.

and Annie Gould (both of Objectables) and Lisa Delahoy

Below left: Golden and Silver Tickets to ride for (left-right) Postmark’s Mark and Leona Janson-Smith, and House of Cards’ Miles

Aurora-Crowe (left) with PG’s Warren Lomax and Yarnton’s Celia Leeson-Cox.

Left: The Moondance duo added to the great ambience during the reception and lunch.

Right: (right-left) Cardgains’ Penny Shaw; Rainbow Designs’ Jayne Plackett and Kristina Sundby; Helen McManus (Cardgains) and Words ‘n’ Wishes’ Carl Salt and Alison Traynor.

Right: Paddock Wood Cards’ Nicky and Danny Goodman took Jemima Puddleduck back to Kent with them.

Far right: As

Emotional Rescue went to town on their guests with specially created goody bags.

Light Fund charity raffle.

Right: (right-left) Rosie Harrison (Rosie Made a Thing), Hazel Small (RHS), Maria McKenna (agent), Stuart Delahoy (Set), Tim

(Set).

Happy Bunnies

Beatrix Potter – the theme of this year’s Retas awards - was very much a woman ahead of her time. Conversely, being an outstanding greeting retailer means having to be of our time, totally in tune with the nuances of their customers’ tastes as well as adapting to the challenges of the day, be it changes in footfall, Royal Mail issues or cost-of-living constraints, among many others. Here we celebrate The Retas 2024 winners.

CARD RETAILER

Initial Reaction: “The Retas event was really special and very enjoyable from start to finish. I will always remember it as it made me feel a very proud dad and future husband.”

Serge Sumerling, owner of Nor

Below centre: Serge shared the moment with his fiancée

Aisling Stephenson.

Right: (centre) Serge Sumerling, owner of Nor was delighted to be presented the trophy by Ohh Deer’s md and co-founder, Mark Callaby.

Below: Mark Callaby, managing director and co-founder of Ohh Deer, sponsor of this award category announced the winner.

Home Counties

Initial Reaction: “We both had a brilliant time - winning helps obviously but it was still brill! How do we feel about the award? Bloody great! Obviously, we have had a few nominations since we won Best Newcomer a few years ago so we were really glad to win this time, having said that our move to our new shop has been a complete game changer. We have always been the best shop we could be in the old unit, but the new bigger space has really let us create something magic and we are so proud of the shop we have grown into and to be recognised for that is amazing.”

Tim and Annie Gould, co-owners of Objectables

East Anglia and South East

Initial Reaction: “Our first thoughts on hearing the news was absolute delight. We feel so privileged to have hit such dizzy heights for a second time as it reflects all of the hours of hard work and dedication that the team puts in. Time to celebrate before the hard work continues!”

Pete and Jelena Whiteman, co-owners of Dzodzo

Bottom left: Chris Thiede, UK commercial director of Hallmark, sponsor of this award category ready to announce the winner.

Left: Winning smiles from Objectables’ co-owners, Annie and Tim Gould (second right), who were presented the trophy by Chris Thiede, UK commercial director of Hallmark.

Below: Objectables’ Tim and Annie letting the good news sink in.

Right: Dzodzo’s senior sales advisors Tracy Buck and Anna Wroblewska (second right) were presented with the trophy by Abacus Cards’ md Nick Carey. Below: Anna and Tracy with the Golden Ticket worth £150 that they will be able to spend at

Below: Nick Carey, managing director of Abacus Cards, sponsor of this award announced the winner.

South West

Initial Reaction: “What a fabulous day and the win was just the icing on the cake. I love the trophy - it’s so beautiful and it means so, so much!” Aga Marsden, owner of Highworth Emporium

Initial Reaction: “Wow! Wow! Wow! It feels absolutely amazing to have won a Retas award - what an accolade! We really weren’t expecting it and were totally shocked but delighted when our name was called - I think our huge smiles said it all. Winning the award has given us such a boost with our plans moving forward now that Jess has returned from maternity leave. We are set to be a winning pair and take our shop forward to be better than ever!”

Deb Came, owner of Paperweight

Right: Highworth Emporium’s owner, Aga Marsden (centre) was pleased as punch to be presented with the winning trophy by Rosie Harrison, founder of Rosie Made a Thing.

Above: Aga (centre) ‘in the pink’ about winning. Seen here with PG’s Warren Lomax and Jakki Brown.

Left: Rosie Harrison, founder of Rosie Made a Thing, sponsor of this award about to announce the winner.

Below: Debbie and Jess enjoying the afterglow of the win.

Above: Warren Lomax, co-show director of PG Live, sponsor of this award category announced the winner.

Right: Deb Came (second left) and her daughter and colleague Jess Came were delighted to be presented with the trophy by PG Live’s Warren Lomax.

Midlands

2024 WINNER: Set, Leicester

Initial Reaction: “Well, that went well didn’t it! Smashing day and of course the right shop won!

After Tim and Annie from Objectables won on our table we thought it’s not going to be our year. So, the announcement was one of complete surprise and delight. As this award comes from within the industry it means more. To be recognised by your suppliers is particularly satisfying, they know what they are talking about. The public vote with their wallets every day and our buoyant sales mean we know we are winning that one! Thanks especially to Grace Podmore, my fantastic card buyer. It’s a cliché, but I really couldn’t do it without her. It was such a shame she was on holiday in Cornwall the week of The Retas.”

Stuart Delahoy, co-owner of Set

BEST INDEPENDENT GREETING CARD RETAILER

North West and Northern Ireland

2024 WINNER: Wishes Cockermouth, Cockermouth

Initial Reaction: “Oh my goodness what a day it was! These two happy bunnies headed back to Cumbria and couldn't have been more proud or excited to tell our Tale of The Retas! So truly surprised and absolutely overwhelmed with joy to have won. Mum's tears were testament to that! Neither of us actually remember hearing our name read out on stage - it's all a rather happy blur! But we're so very grateful to everyone who put us forward for the award and to the judges for awarding us the win. We've been so touched over the weekend by all the messages of congratulations we've received. Thank you Progressive Greetings for giving our greeting card world such a fabulous event to come together and celebrate! Today I've been redressing the window, an award won at a Beatrix Potter-themed awards ceremony needs a Beatrix Potter-themed window display to celebrate it!” Victoria Robinson, co-owner of Wishes

Above: A gleeful look from Stuart and Lisa.

Above right: Stuart and Lisa Delahoy (second left) were so happy to be presented with the shiny trophy from IC&G’s design director Amanda Miles.

Right: Amanda Miles, design director of International Cards and Gifts, sponsor of this award category about to announce the winner.

Above: It was well worth the long trip from Cockermouth for mother and daughter duo, Fiona and Victoria Robinson who were presented with the trophy by UKG’s head of independent sales, Matt James. Left: Matt James, head of independent sales of UK Greetings, sponsor of the award category at the lectern ready to announce the winner.

Right: Victoria (left) and Fiona enjoy the winning feeling.

North East England

Initial Reaction: “So shocked we actually won Best Independent Greeting Card Retailer in the North East! I wish I could have been there myself to enjoy the day but at eight months pregnant, it didn’t feel the best idea to travel to London!”

Sophie Wilson, buyer of Strickland and Holt

Initial Reaction: “I had a lovely time and it was absolutely amazing to have won! We are absolutely thrilled and delighted. It was wonderful being there to be presented with the most amazing trophy which now has ride of place on the desk in the Bruntsfield store where we can share the joy with our customers, which is what I have spent today doing! Tomorrow I am taking it to the Hanover St shop so the girls can spread the fun and excitement there. I am absolutely thrilled to have won for my staff, our independent suppliers and our customers. It is really very special to have achieved this honour for our little stores.”

Nikki Halliday, owner of The Bay Tree

Above: The confetti flew as The Bay Tree’s Nikki Halliday (centre) accepted the trophy from Chantelle White, event manager of London Stationery Show, sponsor of this award category. Left: Nikki and Chantelle shared a happy moment.

Best Greeting Card

Initial Reaction: “What a wonderful event. I can't believe we won, so very grateful to have received the award.”

Sally Swift, owner of Cards & Moor

Initial Reaction: “The theming was charming and I had fab table mates too. Icing on the cake was to win - cannot believe it!”

Liz Kemp, owner of Kemps General Store & Bookshop

Below: Liz holds her trophy aloft.

Above: Liz Kemp, owner of Kemps General Store & Bookshop proudly hugs her shiny trophy that was presented to her by Woodmansterne’s sales director, Andy Paterson.

Left: Rob Edgerton, finance director of Carte Blanche Greetings, sponsor of this category announced the winner.

Below: Andy Paterson, sales director of Woodmansterne Publications, sponsor of this award announced the winner.

Left: Sally Swift, owner of Cards & Moor proudly holds the trophy that was presented to her by CBG’s finance director, Rob Edgerton.

Below: Sally has her hands full with a trophy and a Golden Ticket.

2024 WINNER: Proudfoot Group

Best Non-Specialist Retailer of Greeting Cards - North

Initial Reaction: “It’s so lovely to be acknowledged in these hard times! We are thrilled that we have won a prestigious Retas award for Best Non-Specialist Independent Retailer of Greeting Cards for the North of England 2024. This achievement is testament to our quality Hallmark greeting card offering and departments across all stores, supported by our valued colleagues and customers.”

Cards

Initial Reaction: "We feel very proud to be the winner of our award. It recognises all the hard efforts that everyone has put in to achieve this result and the day job of having well-presented greeting card sections in our shops. We need to thank and acknowledge the huge support we receive from our various suppliers and their reps/agents."

Malcolm and Sally Adams, directors of Stationery House

Right: (second right) Valerie Aston, director of Proudfoot Group went on stage with colleague

Left: Malcolm (second right) and Sally Adams, directors of Stationery House were very happy to be presented with the trophy by Pigment’s sales and marketing Steve Baker.

Right: Lucilla Lavender, owner of the eponymous company, is a very smiley Retas sponsor.

Left: A proud moment for the Proudfoot duo, Valerie and Luke.

Right: Steve Baker, sales and marketing director of Pigment, sponsor of this award donned his best Mr. McGregor tweeds for the event! Left: A very happy Malcolm and Sally.

Best Greeting Card Small Multiple (5-20 stores)

2024 WINNER: Postmark

Initial Reaction: "When we headed off to The Retas we were looking forward to catching up with industry friends and having a fun relaxing afternoon - winning an award was the last thing on our minds so when we our name was called out for 'Best Small Multiple' we were very much caught off guard and not quite sure what to do with ourselves! To say we were thrilled wouldn't cover it as winning this award again really means a huge amount to us. There have been many stressful moments over the last 18 months and times when I think we both thought 'have we taken on too much?' but we are so lucky to have such an amazing team around us and together we've managed push through and really start to shape the business the way we need to, to ensure future success.”

Mark and Leona Janson-Smith, co-founders of Postmark

WINNER: Morley Stores

Best Department Store Retailer of Greeting Cards

Initial Reaction: “We are thrilled to have won the award for Best Department Store Retailer of Greeting Cards. It is always such an honour to be nominated so to win this year was amazing, especially when we were up against some incredible retailers. We wouldn’t be able to do this without the support of our amazing suppliers who all make it possible! Thank you for hosting such a fantastic and fun event!” Marianne Carter, buyer of Morley Group

Above: David Byk, ceo of Ling Design, sponsor of this award category at the lectern ready to announce the winner.

Above: Postmark’s co-founders Leona and (second left) Mark JansonSmith were presented with the trophy by Ling Design’s ceo David Byk.

Right: The winning couple, Mark and Leona.

Bottom left: Soraya Gadelrab, event director of Spring and Autumn Fair, sponsor of this award category had the pleasure of announcing the winner.

Left: (centre) Marianne Carter, buyer of Morley Group was presented with the trophy by Spring and Autumn Fair event director, Soraya Gadelrab.

Below: Marianne proudly clasps the trophy.

Best Supermarket Retailer of Greeting Cards

Initial Reaction: “We were so thrilled to win The Retas award for the Best Supermarket Retailer of Greeting Cards. Winning the award was a real team effort and we are so thankful to everyone at UKG and all our publishers for their continued support in helping us to make our card ranges the best they can be! We are always so proud of the cards we offer to our customers, so the award was a real cherry on top for the amazing work all our teams do. Thank you so much to all those who voted, the award means the world to us.”

Shar Grothier, buyer cards and wrap for Sainsbury’s

Initial Reaction: “What a fab day! As always we had so much fun and winning our very own Retas trophy was a lovely surprise – we are thrilled! It’s amazing to be recognised within an industry full of so many great retailers. We were up against some very strong competitors and were not expecting a win. We’ve already shared the news with the wider business and all our shop teams and are looking forward to sharing the award with everyone in the office – it will be going proudly on display!”

Hazel Walker, senior buyer of Waterstones

Best Non-Specialist Multiple Retailer of Greeting Cards

Far left: Rosie Tate, director of Cath Tate Cards, sponsor of this award category prepares to announce the winner.

Left: (second left-right) Waterstones’ senior buyer Hazel Walker and buyer Megan Douglas were delighted to be presented with the shiny trophy by Rosie Tate, director of Cath Tate Cards. Below: Hazel and Megan with their trophy.

Left: Daniel Prince, managing director of Danilo Promotions, sponsor of this award category did the honours in announcing the winner.

Right: (second left-right) Sainsbury’s assistant buyer Bethany Priestley, buyer Shar Grothier, head of buying Abi Wilson and senior buyer Sanjit Pooni were presented with the trophy by Danilo’s managing director, Daniel Prince. Below: (left-right) Sainsbury’s Abi, Bethany, Shar and Sanjit are delighted by the win.

Best Specialist Multiple Retailer of Greeting Cards

2024 WINNER: Cardfactory

Initial Reaction: “We are all absolutely delighted to pick up such a fabulous award. As an entire business we work tirelessly to do our very best for all of our customers. To then be recognised by the industry is the icing on the cake and it is something we all very grateful and proud to receive.”

Adam Dury, chief commercial officer of Cardfactory

Initial Reaction: “What a fantastic afternoon and amazing we won, just to add to the wonderful experience of the awards event. There was such a fantastic buzz in the room and what a great opportunity to spend the day enjoying the greeting card industry. We loved every minute of it!

We’re honoured by everyone who voted for us. It’s such a fantastic achievement.”

Samantha Bradley, buying manager of Cardfactory

Initial Reaction: “We are beside ourselves with excitement to be bringing our new Retas award back to the team. Woweee! It was another fabulous afternoon, celebrating with the best of the retailers who had made it to the finals. Congratulations all. We are so grateful for all our suppliers who together have contributed to our muchloved new department and to this most coveted award…and to everyone at YH&G…this is for you!”

Celia Leeson-Cox, head of creative at Yarnton Home & Garden

Best Garden Centre Cards – Independent Retailer of Greeting

Below centre: A very happy Celia.

Left: (second left-right) Cardfactory’s buyer Charlotte Green and buying manager Samantha Bradley were so happy to be presented with the trophy by Paperlink managing director, Emma Young.

Below: Charlotte and Samantha show how incredibly happy they were for Cardfactory to receive the award.

Above: Having been presented with the trophy by (far right) Tom Williams, general manager of Museums & Galleries, Yarnton’s head of creative, (second left) Celia Leeson-Cox holds the trophy aloft, joined by colleague Emma Baimbridge, category buyer.

Above: Emma Young, managing director of Paperlink, sponsor of this award category took to the lectern to announce the winner.

Above: Tom Williams, general manager of Museums & Galleries, sponsor of this award category, received an extra warm welcome on stage as host Andrew Ryan mentioned his recent wedding to Sophie.

Cards – Multiple

Best Garden Centre Retailer of Greeting

Initial Reaction: “A big thank you for a fabulous day! Notcutts are delighted to win our award, particularly as we were up against some big names in the garden centre industry! We have worked closely with our key partners Woodmansterne and Glick who have helped us to achieve this. Despite the lack of 'summer', the Gifting categories in Notcutts have had a strong season and we are looking forward to a positive Autumn/Winter.”

Tracey Pennell, buyer of Notcutts

Best Greeting Card

Initial Reaction: Initial Reaction: “My initial thoughts went straight to Open Door. What a fantastic moment…I was filled with such joy and happiness.”

Andrea Pinder, owner of Presentation Cards & Gifts

Right: Notcutts’ buyer Tracey Pennell (second right) and Gemma Bennington, merchandising associate were very happy to be presented with the award by Seth Woodmansterne, managing director of Woodmansterne Publications.

Above: Presentation’s Andrea Pinder was beaming, having been presented with the trophy by (right)

N Smith’s sales director Steve Wilkinson.

Above: A jubilant Andrea.

Below: A super smiley Tracey and Gemma!

Right: Seth Woodmansterne, managing director of Woodmansterne Publications, sponsor of this award category announced the winner.

Best Greeting Card

Wholesaler

Initial Reaction: “My initial thoughts went straight to Open Door. What a fantastic moment…I was filled with such joy and happiness.”

Andrea Pinder, owner of Presentation Cards & Gifts

2024 WINNER: BGC Wholesale 2024 WINNER: Postmark

Initial Reaction: "It was just unbelievable, literally out of this world! We couldn't quite believe what was happening, even when our name was called out. We were just so shocked to be recognised in such an incredible way and the fact that our suppliers have shown such confidence in us to vote for us again this year means so much to us. It really hasn't sunk in yet but just to say again none of this would be possible without our amazing team who have worked so hard to help us achieve this success."

Mark and Leona Janson-Smith, co-founders of Postmark

Greeting Card Retailer Of The Year

As Ged said: “This award goes to a retailer that is a real stand out, not just for their greeting card selection, but how they have taken risks to grow their business, scaling up, venturing into new territories, yet always keeping their feet on the ground. The last year has seen them put in a lot of hard graft to settle their hugely expanded retail portfolio without letting the challenges of logistics get in the way of ensuring a superb product offer and customer service.”

Above right: Akhtar Zahid, ceo of BGC Wholesale was delighted to be presented with the winning trophy by Sensations’ managing director, Ade Longe.

Right: Ade Longe, managing director of Sensations, sponsor of this award category opened the gold envelope to announce the winner.

Right: A shiny bright moment for Akhtar.

Left: Ged Mace, managing director of The Art File, sponsor of this prestigious category said a few words about the Janson-Smiths before announcing Postmark as the winner.

Right: Postmark’s co-founders (second right-left) Leona and Mark Janson-Smith went on stage with colleague Emma Cole, manager to be presented with the prestigious trophy by Ged Mace, managing director of The Art File. Below: A doubly happy Mark and Leona, with Postmark winning both the Best Small Multiple award as well as being crowned

Pick of the Pops

With the wealth of product newness at the recent PG Live show, retailers were spoilt for choice as to which launches to rave about. Following on from last month’s Viewpoints, the good news keeps flowing as PG shares more buyers’ top picks that are now pepping up their product selection in their stores.

Mark Rees, managing director of Henry & Co, nine stores in the Midlands

Top Picks: “I placed several orders while at the show and look forward to getting the product into store.

Paper Salad caught my eye again with their bright and colourful designs which are ideal for creating interest in store.”

Roya Peeroozee, assistant buyer of greeting cards for Tesco

Top Picks: “We thought the Paper Rose x Willsow fully recyclable card range was fabulous innovation and had great print quality on the seeded substrate. It was also wonderful to see some newness from several designers, such as Zoe Spry.”

Chris and Tracey Bryant, co-owners of Expressions, Cats Whiskers and Polkadot, Swindon, Bishops Cleeve and Keynsham

Top Picks: “We fortunately had both Silver and Sunshine Tickets to spend as well as our Cardgains’ member voucher. Eagerly we walked the aisles deciding where to place orders.

We were desperate to refresh our humour offer in Expressions, so we placed an order with one of our favourite humour publishers, Pigment. Although only using them sparingly in the past Brainbox Candy caught our eye, so ordered a selection across its ranges. Bold and Bright, a new supplier for us completed our humour purchases. Visiting one of our major suppliers UKG, we were eager to see the new Camden Signature collection, we were not disappointed. The range just shouted quality with keen price points. Wendy Jones-Blackett’s new age range will also be added to our next order. We were very impressed with what we saw in the Upper Village, too many wonderful new publishers to name individually, but we feel the quality on offer bodes well for the future of our fantastic industry.”

Kim Lewis, greeting card buyer of Longacres garden centres

Top Picks: “I placed orders for new ranges with Ling, GBCC and Abacus. Took on three new companies which is very exciting, Dyson Design being one as I am excited to try its scented cards and range of dinosaur cards. As always, I was looking for different products which I am pleased to have found.”

John Barratt and Andrew Reid, owner and senior card buyer of Card Centre, Felixstowe

Top Picks: “We placed quite a few orders! We were particularly taken with new designs from Paper Bird, just beautiful artwork; Alljoy’s new Message in a Bottle cards; The Porch Fairies’ lovely Advents; Louise Mulgrew’s thoughtful and interesting artwork and both Dandelion Stationery and White Cotton Cards who are both so helpful in fulfilling our individual needs. The Laura Wallace Collection rather took my eye and Andrew liked the humour from Jolly Awesome. And Paperlink deserves a mention for the super ranges it had on show.”

Above: Expressions’ Chris Bryant (right) with Nigel Quiney’s creative maestro, Carl Pledger. Top: Chris and Tracey were impressed with UKG’s Camden Signature collection.

Above: A Zoe Spry design.

Top: Longacres’ Kim Lewis (left) was happy to spend her Sunshine Ticket with Donna Collins of Ling Design.

Above: Dyson’s Dinosaurus range.

Right: Mark Rees (left) with Cardies’ Jo Sorrell and Sean Austin at The Retas/Greats drinks reception.

Above: Brightness from Paper Salad.

Above: A new Christmas design from Paper Bird. Right: Card Centre’s John Barrett (left) and Andrew Reid having a laugh with Dandelion Stationery’s Jo Wilson.

Caroline Ranwell, owner of Hugs & Kisses, Tettenhall

Top Picks: “The new Botanique range from Belly Button Designs, a stunning new floral collection in both open and occasions and relations. I loved the new designs in the Florere range from Rush, for me this is its best range yet… beautiful images with such gorgeous colours and at a brilliant price. There were lots of lovely new designs in the Rainbow Drops range from Wendy JonesBlackett, this super colourful range will sell so well. Raspberry Blossom had a really pretty spinner full of gorgeous die-cut smaller cards which I loved as I did the brilliant risqué humorous ranges from Dean Morris and Brainbox Candy. Since having a Cheeky Box in the shop we have sold more of these, our customers love them.

I placed six orders at the show, five for cards and one with Cambridge Confectionery Company. I would have placed more, but we ran out of time so I have placed more since the show.””

Sonya Haandrikman-Sibbald, co-owner of Celebrations, Carlisle

Anne Barber, owner of In Heaven at Home, Market Harborough

Top Picks: “I met up with some of my fabulous current suppliers, including Bold & Bright (for laughter at Janice and Jeffreys latest naughtiness), KDee Designs (who I first met at PG Live last year), Poet and Painter (everyday silliness), Raspberry Blossom (pure joyfulness and colour), Deva Designs (amazing double-sided wrapping paper), Objectables (outrageousness!!), Sarah Kelleher (beautiful florals), Papersheep (wool embossed cards and mini cards our customers love), Hype Associates (Miffy and Snoopy, Peter Rabbit and Beano) and Brainbox Candy (Heritage and A Daily Cloud and a little top up for the Cheeky Box) and raised orders with them all!!

Top Picks: “We found a company called Brilliantly Brave who uses its profits to fund wellbeing and mental health initiatives. Its cards are really eye catching, the owners are really friendly and we placed an order!

The hand drawn artwork by Libra Fine Arts was simply sensational as were the designs by Angel Fine Arts, created by 16-year old Chloe Cassidy. Having the time to find out about their back stories was just lovely.

We spent our Silver Ticket with Ginger Betty, the illustrations and woodland characters are adorable and they have an extensive range as well as gifts.

We ran out of time to order from Tracks Publishing who had some really eye-catching product, but I picked up a catalogue so I will be giving the rep a call.”

Kate Cowie, director of Utility, four stores in Liverpool and Manchester

Top Picks: “There were so many...we loved seeing new ranges from Archivist, Earlybird, Eleanor Bowmer, Jolly Awesome, Lucy Maggie, Ohh Deer and Stormy Knight among others. We placed a number of orders and we've already had exciting new stock arrive from Stormy Knight, Earlybird and Ohh Deer and can't wait to receive our new selections from Jolly Awesome.”

The new suppliers I placed orders with were Grace Jackson Designs (stylish simplicity) and I spent my Greats’ Voucher with Brilliantly Brave – who use the profits from their cards to fund wellbeing and mental health initiatives, what a wonderful thing to do!”

Maxwell Roberts, owner of Headrow Gallery, Leeds

Top Picks: “I placed several orders at the show. I was particularly impressed with Iain Hamilton's Bewilderbeest cards. Five Dollar Shake is always excellent and Dutch company Lowlands Studios looking for representation in the UK took my eye for its quality product. Over the years, I've been impressed by The Imaging Centre and I hope to soon be doing regular business with

Tiffany Leach, Kingfisher Cards and Hummingbird Gifts, Sidmouth

Top Picks: “Companies that caught my eye were Earlybird with its colourful eco-friendly cards, Heyyy Cards with their new fun die-cut range and Cinnamon Aitch with its pretty Apple Blossom range. I placed lots of orders with Earlybird, Lovely Paper Stuff, Heyyy Cards, Bold & Bright, Bewilderbeest, Wendy JonesBlackett and spent my Silver Ticket with Cinnamon Aitch.”

Top: A shiny silver moment between Kingfisher Card’s Tiffany Leach (left) and Cinnamon Aitch’s co-founder Sarah Fitzgerald. Above: Summer vibes from Wendy Jones-Blackett.

Above: A design from Stormy Knight’s Shiny Things range.

Top: A ‘sweet’ moment as Hugs & Kisses’ Caroline Ranwell surprised Nigel Baker, md of Cambridge Confectionery Company when she produced her Greats voucher.

Above: A Florere card from Rush Design.

Above: A design from Lowlands Studios’ Pop It Up 3D range.

Above: In Heaven at Home’s Anne Barber (left) with Brilliantly Brave’s Jean Pryde.

Above: Anne’s favourite card at PG Live was from Brilliantly Brave.

Above: Celebrations’ co-owner Sonya HaandrikmanSibbald (left) and manager Heather Hodgson sharing a moment at The Retas Wall of Fame.

Above right: A design from Libra Fine Arts.

Malcolm Adams, Stationery House, Somerton, Clevedon, Wrington

Top Picks: “We purchased from two companies who are new to us at Stationery House. Feather and Hare, headed up by a lovely couple

Sarah Lishman, greeting card buyer of Barkers department store, North Allerton

Top Picks: “I placed an order, using my Silver Ticket with The Charming Press, beautiful cards using Liberty fabrics. I also placed an order with Stormy Night who I have looked at so many times in the past and never got round to ordering, so I’m really excited about the stock arriving. Grace Jackson and Lil Wabbit also caught my eye.”

Celia Leeson-Cox, visual merchandise manager, Yarnton Home & Garden, Yarnton

Top Picks: “ArtPress - new ranges and lots to see on the stand. As a garden centre we always like to have a good selection of ‘horticulturally’ themed cards and they have an excellent variety in product and designs.

Oh Squirrel – the stand was stunning with its gorgeous stripey vibe (we love a stripe at Yarnton!) and the cards were beautiful - made by hand with Katie’s own vintage foil press and handwritten blocks. Sooshichacha – A really good range to choose from, and especially loved the new rather striking MALA collection. (An entertaining chat about Dachshunds, Terriers and Labradors too!)

Bird & Co Studios - Colourful wonky flowers and unique floral designs on cards, wrap and art prints on ecoconscious paper.

Poet and Painter - Some fabulous new colourful and quirky ranges and we loved their Pop-Up! Bauble Christmas Cards.

Ohh Deer – A great looking stand with lots of new things to see, lots to top up as it’s all selling so very quickly and lots to chat about!

Raspberry Blossom – We loved the fun PopUp cards, particularly the dogs and cats and their colourful spinners: so good to see someone tackling the standard grey and black ones!”

has beautifully illustrated and quality cards. Fiona and Nick at The Porch Fairies were our other new supplier where we spent our Golden Ticket.

We spent our Silver Ticket with Tracks, opening a new account for our Wrington store and we placed an order with Abacus, plus spent our Cardgains’ voucher with Paperlink.”

Georgina Black, owner of Pretty Shiny Shop, Finsbury Park and Oval

Top Picks: “Ohh Deer had a whole bunch of new designs, and I placed an order of all their new cards at the show. I spent my Sunshine Ticket with Mifkins on a fabulous new group of bright and beautiful die-cut cards. When I got back from the show, I placed orders with The Art File, Earlybird and Cath Tate to grab some of their new fabulous designs as well as top up my current offerings. I also saw a few new suppliers that I took information from that I will consider in the future when I want to change my offering up a bit.”

Jo Weber, owner of Jo Armor, Tiverton

Top Picks: “I went armed with a shopping list to top up and refresh our top selling cards and placed lots of orders.

Bewilderbeest made me laugh all the way through my order. I love the great new additions. Caroline Gardner always inspires me with new fresh designs always being added.”

Andrea Pinder, owner Presentation Cards & Gifts, Barrowford

Top Picks: “There were so many publishers that caught my eye, there really was something there for every retailer.

In no particular order some of my newbie favourites at the show were Arrthi’s Cheeky Legends for her inoffensive humour; Ink & Ivy for its Wallypops wall art for children; Laura Lonsdale for her retro range Bangin and Urban Steppin for its fabulous equality cards.

From established companies, some standouts were Five Dollar Shake’s Christmas Christmas 2024; Rush Design’s Sparkling Glitter and Diamantés; Wendy Jones-Blackett’s exquisite Raindrops and Blackpool Rock; Widdop & Co’s Say it with Songs card and gift range; Cotton & Grey’s sentiment candle gifts; Deva Designs for giftwrap accessories and gifting; Pigment for its Alice Scott and Fox & Butler collections; Paperlink’s Needle and Thread and Hallmark Cards’ licensed Disney collection.

I placed orders with Arrthi Little, Cotton & Grey, Five Dollar Shake, Ink & Ivy, Laura Lonsdale, Rush Design, Urban Steppin, Wendy Jones-Blackett and Widdop & Co.”

Above: The Ox-Eye Daisy reusable art card from Bird & Co Studios. Left: Yarnton’s Celia Leeson-Cox (right) and Jennifer Brampton (second left) with PG’s Warren Lomax and Jakki Brown.

Ticket with Laura Lonsdale. Above: A design from Urban Steppin.

Above: Jo Weber always has bags of energy, including at PG Live.

Top: The Pretty Shiny Shop’s owner Georgina Black with Mifkins’ owner Natalie Alexander. Above: One of the designs from Ohh Deer’s Fun Thoughts range.

Above: Liberty fabrics feature on The Charming Press’ greeting cards.

Above: Stationery House’s founder Malcolm Adams with buyer Sarah Bennett at The Retas’ Wall of Fame at the show. Right: A Foxwood Tales design from The Porch Fairies.

A selection of new launches to refresh retailers’ product selections.

Feline Your Age?

Don’t count the years, count the cats! Laura Skilbeck’s new Cat Ages collection features sweet hand-drawn designs covering ages 1-100. There are 30 cards in the range, covering every age between 1 and 10, then 18 and 21 and every decade up to 100. Their die-cut corners, high quality 100% recycled board and matt finish add to their simple vintage charm. The cards come with matching envelopes and are packaged in biodegradable sleeves. Laura Skilbeck 07527811545 www.lauraskilbeck.com

Cottoning On

Katie Phythian Design 07900 431825 www.katiephythiandesign.com

Love-ly Ladies

Berni Parker Designs’ Ladies Who Love Life brand has welcomed Love Ya, a new female to female birthday collection for special friends. The range was inspired by Ange, a good friend of Berni who always says or sends messages with ‘Love Ya’. There are eight new designs in this new capsule range.

Berni Parker Designs  01384 210599 www.berniparkerdesigns.com

Hand-painted summery watercolours and a modern play on the traditional verse combine in Cotton, Katie Phythian Design’s latest greeting card collection. All 12 designs are handfinished with iridescent crystals to add some subtle sparkle to the 165mm square cards. Each come cellowrapped with a shimmering envelope.

Old York

Animal Impressions

Bug Art has further expanded its Kooks collection with eight new designs. Each card features a quirky animal designed with bright and colourful collage patterns embossed with either gold or blue foil detailing. Blank inside, the cards (167mm x 118mm) are suitable for most ages and occasions. They come with a pale green envelope and can be supplied naked or wrapped in a biodegradable bag.

Bug Art 0115 929 4776 www.bugart.co.uk

Art of Xmas

ArtPress has extended its Christmas offering with new Royal Academy (RA) Christmas wallets. The range spans the ages, from the Renaissance artist Raphael to the work of Charles Tunnicliffe OBE RA, the renowned naturalistic painter of birds and other wildlife. Each wallet contains ten cards of one design with accompanying china white envelopes.

ArtPress 0207 231 2923 www.art-press.co.uk

Stephanie Davies’ new Heritage collection is inspired by Christmas in York where she lives. Stephanie took inspiration for the Christmas designs from taking photographs of the old Georgian doors with handmade wreaths, holly and pear tree plant pots outside the houses, the pretty strung lights hung around the shops and the English winter wildlife in the museum gardens. Enhanced with foiled details, the cards are printed on 300gsm luxury board.

Stephanie Davies 07982182703

www.stephaniedavies.co.uk

A selection of new launches to refresh retailers’ product selections.

Pack Up Your Troubles

Stormy Knight's Good Feels collection has welcomed some new additions, including the pictured Backpacker design. The new designs cover birthday and occasions, such as new baby, engagement and graduation as well as new options for Spring Seasons.

Stormy Knight 0117 9098684

www.stormyknight.co.uk

Fancy A Cuppa?

Coulson Macleod’s new Hug In A Mug greeting card collection includes an extra ‘pick you up’ element as each card contains an individually-wrapped tea or coffee sachet. The range comprises eight different designs, four tea and four coffee. They are also available as a greeting card bundle comprising 72 cards (nine of each design), a wooden display box and eight greyboard dividers.

Coulson Macleod 01536 419944 www.coulsonmacleod.com

Relatable Festivities

Ricicle Cards is heading for a Cosy Christmas with new Christmas relations cards joining the range. The new designs cover husband, wife, brother, sister, mum and dad as well as, One I Love and a Merry Christmas to You All option. All are based on hand-painted designs, die-cut and come paired with a red envelope. Ricicle Cards 07850757676 www.riciclecards.com

Shore Footed

Offshore is a new range from James Ellis designed to take you away to a special place.  From tranquil beach scenes with gentle surf, paddle boarding and kayaking in blue lagoons to beautiful views from cliff walks and countryside hikes, the range’s 14 birthday designs are centred around water and the great outdoors. ‘Happy Birthday’ is foiled in gold on the front of the cards that are printed on 300gsm European board, they are 100% recyclable, plastic-free and held together with a peelable clasp label.

James Ellis 0117 927 7667 www.jamesellis.com

Moderne Thinking

Pennychoo owner and illustrator Sue Lee is a fan of all things vintage. In her new card ranges, Moderne and Moderne Words, she’s channelled her love of British Art Deco aka Style Moderne. From 1930s bungalows to streamlined cinemas, department stores and petrol stations, these cards are a world away from the pink kitsch of Miami Deco. The square cards are printed on premium matt board for a retro feel and come with an ivory envelope.

Pennychoo 07941 645018 www.pennychoo.com

Wordy Wise

While best known for its Landmarks architectural range, I Drew This has turned its attention to words rather than buildings for its new Bless Up range. Aimed at anyone with a positive, caring happy attitude to life, the collection debuts with 20 greeting card designs with lots of complimentary products in the pipeline.

I Drew This 07813 005707

www.idrewthis.co.uk

A selection of new launches to refresh retailers’ product selections.

Thinking Ahead

Wrendale Designs has launched a greeting card organiser box for those planning ahead and keeping cards organised. Adorned with Wrendale founder Hannah Dale’s well-loved illustrations, the box is enhanced with gold foil details. Inside it includes monthly card dividers, each with space on the back to write down birthdays, anniversaries and other special occasions dates. Sustainably sourced from responsibly managed forests, the box comes with plastic-free packaging.  Wrendale Designs 01652 680253

www.wrendaledesigns.co.uk

Hi Fashion

The Latte-st Solution

As many of Cherie Jerrard’s card ideas for Cherie Did This were thought up in coffee shops, sometimes even using coffee as paint, it got her thinking of how she could add a sustainable element. The new Coffee Cards range is printed on board made from recycled single-use coffee cups and infused with coffee waste, with a card clasp that features a coffee bean. Cherie Did This cheriedidthis@gmail.com www.cheriedidthis.com

Inspired by the popular music artists of the day, Counting Stars’ new Haute Hippie range is a fabulous mix of fashion and female wit. The stylish beautiful illustrations are all individually handpainted with sparkling glitters and paint in the publisher’s Sussex studio.

Counting Stars 01424 434062 www.fivedollarshaketrade.com

Annual Events

Yaki Dar

Pink Pig has added Welsh versions to its popular One-Upmanship range. The cards cover male and female hobbies, sports, and pastimes with silly characters that everyone can relate to. There are 48 different designs (with both penblwydd hapus and pen-blwydd hapus versions). All the cards are 150mm square, printed on high quality FSC board, supplied with kraft envelopes and available with eco clasp, naked or cello wrapped.

Pink Pig Cards 07795 574548

www.pinkpigcards.co.uk

Seeing Red

Libra Fine Arts’ monochrome trademark look is given a festive twist for its Christmas card collection with a touch of red added to the traditionally hand-drawn charcoal and graphite designs. The favourites from the Libra ‘family’ are adorned with red hats for the festive season and come paired with a vibrant red envelope.

Libra Fine Arts 07595336062

www.librafinearts.co.uk

Lucy Maggie Designs has released a new collection of humorous Milestone Age cards. Colin the Caterpillar makes an appearance as a home staple for birthday parties nationwide, as well as some funny puns and some cheeky sweary cards for those who like something a little naughtier. The cards are A6 in size, are printed on 350gsm textured board and are available plastic-free or packed in cellobags. Lucy Maggie Designs 07763239731

www.lucymaggiedesigns.co.uk

(SHOP)LIFTING THE LID

A video recently uploaded to YouTube showing a thief brazenly stealing from a Cardfactory store in broad daylight has clocked up 740,000 views and counting, a shocking example of how shoplifting has escalated to a frightening level for card and gift retailers, damaging not only profitability, but safety of those working in shops.

PG hopes that King Charles’ speech at the State Opening of Parliament, which backed up the new Labour government’s promise for new laws to address retail crime means something really can be done to stem this pernicious practice.

“Shoplifting is at crisis level,” exclaimed Priya Aurora-Crowe, co-owner of Lark, echoing the views of fellow gift and card retailers at a recent Retailer Roundtable discussion organised by PG’s sibling Progressive Gifts & Home convened at the recent Harrogate Home & Gift. “There are so many repeat offenders, who steal in front of you without caring – it is putting off people wanting to work in retail. Something has to be done, and quickly,” Priya added. “We need more police, stricter laws and funding. The level of shoplifting is really hurting the retail trade and hurting humanity.”

A sad indictment of just how bad the situation has become is captured in a candid reel filmed in Cardfactory’s Holloway store in north London and uploaded onto the @londonukstreetnews YouTube channel which shows how the shopstaff were forced to watch as one man clears whole shelves of confectionery and other products off the till counter while his accomplice holds the door open. Bravely one of the Cardfactory team stops the thief taking any more with a “That’ll do now, come on…” as he leaves with a bulging bag of stolen goods. All this at 10am in a busy high street.

But Cardfactory is far from alone in suffering at the hands of shoplifters. Indie store Cornucopia in Worcester, for one, took

to social media recently to highlight the scale of shoplifting it has been suffering, with mum and daughter owners Clare and Hannah Bishop saying they felt forced to acknowledge the “troubling trend” impacting their small business.

They posted: “The rise in shoplifters targeting our store has reached alarming levels, with incidents occurring more frequently than ever before. Every week, we face the distressing reality of theft from our shop – a crime that has consequences not only for our business, but for our community as a whole.”

Explaining that they have 24-hour CCTV

surveillance, and the support of the shopping centre’s security guards, as well as police cooperation with numerous cases under investigation, Clare and Hannah reached out to customers for assistance, asking for help in identifying those involved in the thefts.

And a follow-up post on showed the response: “We are truly touched by the outpouring of support and solidarity from our community in response to the recent challenges we’ve faced with an increase in shoplifters.

“The safety and well-being of our staff and customers are our top priorities and to have such unwavering encouragement from all of

Above: Lifting the lid on shoplifting needs more than hot air to sort the issue.

Below and right: Lark’s Priya Aurora-Crowe and husband Dominic were happy at The Retas, but are far from happy about the reality of shoplifting in its 19 stores.

you means everything to us. Your words of kindness have bolstered our spirits and reinforced our belief that we are not alone in this.

“Together, we stand strong against adversity, united by a shared sense of community and resilience. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for being a beacon of light in these trying times.”

Rightfully, the new Government looks set to deliver on its promise to protect retail workers with the new law – which will make assaulting, threatening or abusing a retail worker a standalone offence under the Crime & Policing Bill.

Those in the retail community were all ears as King Charles gave his State Opening of Parliament speech on July 17, recognising that the new bill heralds a chance to curb shop crime as well as bringing in extra shopworkers’ rights.

Following the King’s Speech in the House Of Lords, Co-Op’s director of campaigns and public affairs Paul Gerrard emphasised the significance of this legislation in making it easier for authorities to investigate and prosecute offenders, ultimately enhancing the safety of shopworkers.

He said: “This marks a seismic shift in the crackdown on retail crime, sending a powerful message that attacking or abusing shopworkers is unacceptable. We expect this to significantly improve safety in stores across the UK,” said Gerrard.

He noted the success of similar legislation in Scotland, where a standalone offence has led to a 60% arrest rate for reported incidents

of violence and abuse towards shopworkers, compared to just 10% in England and Wales.

Helena Dickinson, ceo of the British Retail Consortium, added: “With over 1,300 incidents of violence and abuse a day against retail workers, there are millions of retail colleagues who will celebrate the creation of a new specific offence of assaulting a shopworker, announced as part of the Crime & Policing Bill.

The minister set out four priorities, which included supporting small businesses on the crime issue.

“We also welcome the Bill’s introduction of stronger measures to tackle shoplifting and anti-social behaviour. This is a timely intervention at a time when retail crime is costing retailers and their customers £3.3billion a year.”

Peter Batt, md of NISA which has almost 1,300 independently-owned retail members, emphasised the importance of including indies in these protections, highlighting the prevalence of verbal abuse and violent incidents faced by colleagues in convenience stores, stressing that all retail workers deserve to feel safe and supported.

The British Independent Retailers’ Association (BIRA) has already met with the new government as ceo Andrew Goodacre was among those called in at short notice to take part in the discussion with new business and trade minister Jonathan Reynolds and the Department for Business & Trade.

Andrew said: “It was great to hear about the priorities and even better to know that supporting small business is one of those priorities. I am looking forward to further discussions to make this a reality for indie retailers by reducing the cost of running a shop through business rates reform, reducing retail crime and encouraging investment in our High Streets."

With full backing from the top, it does at least look like retail crime can be fought, rather than retailers having to stand aside and see their livelihoods stolen from them.

Size of the issue

The British Retail Consortium (BRC) reported earlier this year that levels of violence against shop staff have risen by 50%, as its latest crime survey showed daily incidents against shop workers shot up to 1,300 in 2023, including sexual harassment, racial abuse, physical assault and threats – hitting the same level as during the pandemic, where shop staff bore the brunt of some people’s frustration over

the Covid safety measures.

The trade association said the rise happened despite retailers of all sizes spending £1.2billion on measures such as CCTV, body cameras and increased security personnel over the year, up from £722m the previous year – and the cost of theft also rose from £953m the previous year to £1.8bn, making the total cost of crime for stores £3.3bn.

Far left: Above: The reel on @londonukstreetnews’ YouTube shows how Cardfactory staff were forced to watch as a thief stole shelf loads of products.

Left: King Charles arriving for the State Opening of Parliament with his speech highlighting the Crime & Policing Bill which will serve to curb retail crime. New laws will also hopefully see police supporting retailers better in the crime fight.

Below: Clare and Hannah Bishop of Cornucopia in Worcester have been touched by customers’ support on the theft issue.

Art Source

Bright and Breeze-y

“I’m Georgia Frost, Cornish illustrator and surface pattern designer, the face behind the brand Georgia Breeze.

As a child, I was always encouraged by my parents to create art. I loved trying out new crafts, whether it was handmade bracelets, cake decorating, or making greeting cards. Deep down, I always knew I wanted to pursue a career in art.

Having run her own greeting card company for a few years before changing direction with a move into licensing her artwork instead, Georgia Frost has first hand knowledge of the greeting card sector.

As she reveals that a collaboration with Paper Rose is in the pipeline, under her Georgia Breeze brand, here she shares her creative journey up until now.

After leaving school, I did a foundation course in art and design, then went on to specialise in surface pattern design. I loved this particular degree course, especially since it included a business element. I often dreamed of becoming a creative entrepreneur. However, being based in a small town in Cornwall and creating designs by hand made this incredibly difficult to reach a wider market. At that time, and with a young family to support, I went into teaching.

It wasn’t until 20 years later that I finally took the plunge, booked a stand at Progressive Greetings Live and launched Georgia Breeze Designs. Initially my focus was selling handmade greeting cards to retailers. I sold cards both nationally and internationally, met some fantastic people and learnt as much as I could about the greeting card industry. Since then, my business and methods of creating art have evolved significantly.

A standout moment was partnering with Carousel Calendars to create the Georgia Breeze wall planner, which was then adapted exclusively for Sainsbury’s. Collaborating with Flame Tree Publishing has also been incredible, illustrating its Lovely Quotes Calendar with Florals was a dream project. We’ve also designed a range of illustrated journals featuring special touches like foiling and embossing. As a stationery lover, these collaborations have been real highlights in my career.

I now love to create digital artwork on my iPad, although I still enjoy incorporating handmade elements, textures and patterns. I've developed a fresh, commercial style, often infused with nature and inspired by my everyday life here in Cornwall.

WANT TO BE FEATURED?

Another exciting milestone has been my partnership with Ravensburger. Having always loved a good puzzle I was absolutely thrilled that my artwork ‘Garden Allotment’ was licensed for a jigsaw puzzle. This collaboration allowed my designs to reach new audiences and has been a wonderful addition to my portfolio. I’ve since been commissioned to create a series of puzzles, which has completely exceeded all my expectations!

The future is looking bright for my creative business, especially as I have entered into a new licensing partnership with greeting card publisher Paper Rose. With my roots in greeting cards I couldn’t be happier, and I have always admired this super creative company. They work with such an amazing team of artists, and their greeting cards have always caught my eye. I am really excited to start developing this collection and look forward to bringing fresh, innovative designs to their already impressive line-up. I really cannot wait to reveal what we have been working on so look out for our new collection at Top Drawer 2025!

I'm thrilled about the opportunities that lie ahead, from homewares to ceramics and gifts. I am grateful for the support and partnerships that have helped shape Georgia Breeze Designs. With each new project, I strive to bring creativity and joy to everyday life, and I can't wait to share more of my artwork with the world.”

l Georgia Frost aka Georgia Breeze is represented for licensing by This is Iris.

Although I no longer wholesale greeting cards B2B, I am still very much connected to the industry. I now have several different strands to my business. These last few years working alongside my agent, Sarah Lawrence of This Is Iris, have really allowed me to grow as a licensing artist. Sarah has been an amazing mentor and given me the opportunity to work on some fantastic projects. If you are an artist, photographer or verse writer and would like to be considered to appear in Art Source, please contact PG’s Jakki Brown on jakkib@max-publishing.co.uk. This is an editorial feature and as such is free of charge.

Left: Some of Georgia’s bright and breezy florals which were a winner for Flame Tree.

Left: Georgia Frost is very happy with her growing licensing collaborations. Right: Georgia is equally at home designing stationery and homewares as she is creating greeting cards and calendars. Far right: A stand out for Georgia has been working with Carousel under her Georgia Breeze brand. Below: The Garden Allotment jigsaw, based on Georgia’s artwork that appears as a 1,000 piece jigsaw from Ravensburger.

PG ASKED A GROUP OF RETAILERS FOR THEIR BEST SELLERS

Tim Gould, co-owner of Objectables, Folkestone

A quirky card and gift shop (that now operates from a bigger unit) in the reinvigorated Creative Quarter of the Kent coastal town. In addition to the shop, that Tim runs with his wife Annie, they also have the card publishing

Category

Name of Publisher Product/Name

Eat The Moon Ohh Deer

Laura Darrington Design

Ika Print

Eleanor Bowmer

Objectables

Bettie Confetti

Stoats & Weasels

Jolly Awesome Brainbox Candy

Mifkins

Cath Tate Cards

Lucky Ink

Dry Red Press

Objectables

Sharon King-Chai

Laura Skilbeck

Objectables

Alljoy Design

Hadley Paper Goods

Pavillion Noi

Forma House

Punky Pins

Legami Stationery Super Fab

It’s Bin Ages Photoshits

“They are a go to for us as they always fly out. Their Super Fab range is…super fab!”

“Really fresh card designs.”

“There is a temptation to just to phone up Ohh Deer and say “six of everything” - they have goodies we can’t resist!”

“These are doing really well in birthday and relations.”

“These are both bloody brilliant!”

“We’re a publisher too, and our bestselling humour cards are always Objectables.”

“She has just reappeared after a while away and we are soooo happy.”

“We are loving the newness from this great Brighton-based designer.”

Twonks Heritage Plaques

General Birthday Blocks

Annie Gould’s cards in Objet D’artables

“A good new edition for us this year.”

“Genius, the rude ones sell out super quick”

“Just brilliant, we love them.”

“These die-cut age cards are selling really well.”

“The new badge range is fab.”

“We’ve always loved these cards and now we have a bigger shop we have the room for more art cards.”

“Yes they are our own cards. They are bloody brilliant, also she is lovely!”

It’s Bin Ages

Message In A Bottle

Party Hat Cards

General General

Keith Brymer Jones mugs

Jacket & bag pins

Erasable pens

“Cute is not a word one would connect with Objectables, but we love these cards.”

“Us again! They’ve ‘bin’ our bestsellers since we launched them in January.”

“Since we got the spinner with dedicated display for the cards, they’ve sold really fast!”

“One of the new publishers we picked up at PG Live.”

“Having delayed in placing an order, we just can’t stop. The cut-out crowns have been brilliant.”

“Both make lovely wrap.”

“These always, always sell out.”

“It’s a killer!”

“So successful we’ve started a kids’ stationery club.”

Right: Earlybird’s Super Fab is just fab.

Right: Lucky Ink’s badges go down well.

Right: The crown’s the thing from Hadley.

Right: One of the newest erasable pens designs from Legami.

Right: Robert Plant is one of Annie Gould’s bestselling art cards.

Pete and Jelena Whiteman, co-owners of Dzodzo, Woodbridge

An award winning card and gift shop in an historic town full of indie stores that lies on the River Debden, just eight miles from the coast.

Category

Relations & Occasions

Humour

Children’s

Adult Ages

Art

Cute

Photographic

Gifts

Name of Publisher

UK Greetings

Rosie Made a Thing

Woodmansterne

Jonny Javelin

Paperlink

Redback Cards

Abacus Cards

East Of India

Product/Name Range Comments

General

Gin & Frolics

Quentin Blake

Velvet

Skylark

Moji

BBC Countryfile

General

“Always coming up with new designs that hit the mark across the board.”

“We hear them giggling from outside the store and customers pick them up in handfuls.”

“Always colourful and perfect design for the age.”

“Traditional – and always a winner!”

“The great colours and designs draw you to them.”

“Fun for everyone of different ages.”

“Well-captured moments that make you smile.”

“Sentiments that melt the heart and are wonderful to give and receive.”

Sonya Haandrikman Sibbald, co-owner of Celebrations, Carlisle

Category Name of Publisher Product/Name Range Comments

Adult Ages

Cute

& Occasions

Jonny Javelin

Emotional Rescue

Bexy Boo Paperlink

Cherry Orchard

Belly Button Designs

Rosie Made a Thing

Emotional Rescue/Paper Salad

Grass Roots

Cherry Orchard

Belly Button Designs

Paper Shed Design

UK Greetings

Velvet

Folx

Lily Loves Pick ’N’ Mix

Grace Glow

Gin & Frolics

Is It Friday Yet?

Jelly Beans

Down Memory Lane

Elle

Pawsitively Purrfect

Boofle

Photographic

Gift Wrappings

Gifts

Abacus

Noel Tatt

Glick

La De Da Living

Jellycat

BBC Countryfile

Cube

Generally

Pebble

Generally

“An excellent traditional range with a very good following.”

“This is just a great range!”

“Loved the new designs at PG Live.”

“The Thank You dog design has a great sell through rate!”

“The dark backgrounds make these cards stand out.”

“Bright and fun designs at a great price point.”

Housed in a grade II-listed former bank, Sonya runs this large card, gift and café bar with her mum Tanya Haandrikman in the Cumbrian cathedral city.

“We've also got the coasters and mini-mints at the till point as pick-ups.”

“The neon colours are eye catching and the captions just hit the nail on the head.”

“The relations ages are in high demand.”

“A keepsake and a card all in one, just great sellers.”

“Gorgeous quality and super stylish cards.”

“Adorable characters which are beautifully illustrated.”

“An all-round good selling cute range. We supported Boofle on his 15th anniversary with lots of events in our store.”

“Ideal as we’re blessed to be on the doorstep of the Lake District and have a huge farming community in our area.”

“Bright and bold photography, the colours just pop on the shelf.”

“Fabulous on trend designs and a lovely company.”

“We have supported this range since launch. It's UK designed and manufactured – and it flies!”

“This company has such a good brand following.”

Right: The removable patch makes Redback’s Moji extra fun.

Right: A current Glick bestseller is Stephanie Dyment.

Right: Giggles galore with Rosie Made a Thing.

Right: Quentin Blake’s work is colourful and works for all ages.

Right: Paw-fect thank you designs from Paperlink.

Right: Belly Button’s stylish Elle ages.

PRODUCT

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GREETING CARDS

One of the UK’s leading publishers of Charity Greeting Cards. Impress offers a wide collection of images, including fine art, graphic, photographic and cute. We also offer a bespoke design service for bulk orders and/or mail order fulfilment.

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THE GREATEST COLLECTION OF GREETING CARDS IN THE WORLD

6 Heron Trading Estate

Alliance Road, Park Royal, London W3 0RA T: 0208 385 4474 F: 0208 385 4471 E: info@Xpressyourselfcards.co.uk WWW.XXPRESSYOURSELFCARDS.CO.UK

PRODUCTS: World’s leading publisher of high quality plastic greeting cards. Also an extensive range of quality greeting cards covering Everyday, Occasions, Christmas and Spring seasons.

BRANDS: Cherished Thoughts, Sweet Sentiments, Buddies Always, Symphony, Thinking of You, Style, Special Wishes, Special Times, Young Editions, Groove Sensations, Forever Blessed, Grey Skies, Classics.

METHOD OF SALE: SENSATIONS –Direct to retail XPRESS YOURSELF –Now one of the leading wholesale publisher suppliers in the UK

Products: Greetings Cards, Gift Wrap, Gift Bags, Social Stationery, Partyware

Brands: Blossom & Bows Card Essentials Greetings Impressions In Touch Isabel s Garden Planet Happy Sentiments With You In Mind Word Play Method of sale: Wholesale Distributors

Simon Elvin Limited Wooburn Industrial Park, Wooburn Green, Bucks HP10 0PE Tel: 01628 526711 Fax: 01628 531483 www.simonelvin.com mail@simonelvin.com

To appear in the Product Directories contact Warren Lomax T: 020 7700 6740 email: warren@max-publishing.co.uk or contact Tracey Arnaud T: 07957 212 062 email: traceya@max-publishing.co.uk Verse & an extensive range of superior quality, design-led Greeting Cards for all occasions, Spring Seasons & Christmas. Orders can be placed on our

Method of Sale: Direct to Retail

site www.cbgtrader.co.uk or call our customer services team on +44(0)1243 792600

To appear in the Product Directories contact Warren Lomax T: 020 7700 6740 email: warren@max-publishing.co.uk or contact

Tracey Arnaud T: 07957 212 062 email: traceya@max-publishing.co.uk