Progressive Greetings January 2021 by Max Publishing: Print, Digital Media + Events (London)

January

2021

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From The Editor

ON THE CARDS So, we are now a month into the New Year and while admittedly things could be better, they could also be a lot worse. Christmas trading figures for those in the greeting card scene, while not the most sparkling, in many cases were better than anticipated given the circumstances. Sadly, the lockdown will dampen Valentine’s Day sales, and push them through the channels that are still able to trade, but publishers are being very understanding and retailers are really appreciating that. There is a feeling of unity and hope that is working its way through and it feels good to be able to grasp it. As an avid radio fan and rather early riser, there I was a few Saturday mornings ago shortly after 6am crying my eyes out and loving it. What caused it was an Open Country programme on Radio 4 that centred around nurseryman Alan Street and his lifelong passion for snowdrops. I was already completely captivated by his true love for these little white flowers (of which incidentally there are over 75 varieties with new strains still being discovered, according to Alan!) and then he delivered the punchline - snowdrops, have since Victorian times, been seen as symbols of hope, pushing their way through the cold and wet winters in a courageous bid to be the first blooms of the year. I so loved that, and it set me off on a mission, as a Peeping Tom, scouring people’s front gardens for any sign of the white blooms poking their little heads out of the winter soil. This happened a few days after I saw the headline of a column in The Times written by Matthew Parris, entitled: ‘Cheer up, better times are round the corner’. I started reading it somewhat tentatively, thinking it was a trap - an unusually positive heading to lure me in and then bring me back down to earth with a bang. But it wasn’t. It was a superb piece of writing which will have had many more readers than just me, nodding in

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Above: Remember the joy of being able to get together? A scene from The Retas 2019 - the 2021 awards are open for entry, which an awards event planned for July 14! Left: A snowdrop design from The Eco-friendly Card Company. Below: Always quick off the mark - a design posted by Brainbox Candy on social media in the run up to the inauguration.

agreement as Matthew name checked ‘The Stranger’ who, in these weird times interrupts our sleep with worries, (real or imagined), which causes us to get things out of proportion. Forebodings and regrets large and small tumble out of us in those dark hours, but in the morning while everything may not be sorted, they are manageable. He went on to point out that our feeling at the moment of being overwhelmed is largely to do with the cumulative effects of everything going on, yet taken individually, things really are improving. ‘Brexit is going to prove tiresome, but no-one’s going to die’, writes Matthew. As for Covid, the UK has and is doing well on the vaccine front, Trump no longer has his finger on the powerful button of America. Joe Biden’s inauguration speech as President (and the tingle-inducing words and prior performance of the young poet Amanda Gorman) really was the equivalent of the biggest field of snowdrops ever - so full of hope. This industry has been bruised and battered by the events of the last 10 months, and the sun is not shining yet, but it is trying to. Publishers are launching tons of fabulous ranges, retailers are making the most of lockdown to spruce up their shops, tweak their websites and spread the love through social media to their customers. The hope is there…things are getting better.

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What’s Inside?

CONTENTS 36

9-18 News

52-53

All the latest happenings and developments in the trade.

Tate That

24-25

Cath and Rosie Tate of Cath Tate Cards look back and forth on four decades of trade.

Face to Face

Over The Counter

Not Loving 2021…Yet!

54-55

David Robertson, co-owner of JP Pozzi in Scotland on why we need to be a little easier on ourselves.

Industry Issue

Channel Crossing Views on what impact Brexit will have on the card sector.

26-27 Cardsharp

56-57

Sisters Are Doin’ It For Themselves

Environmental Push

PG columnist fanfares how women are the driving force of the industry.

A Zest For The Planet Otter House Group’s wholehearted environmental programe of pledges.

29-35

39-51

59-61 Art Source

Viewpoints

So, How Was Christmas? Retailers reveal their verdicts on Christmas trade as well as their hunch for the coming year.

Picture libraries and artists’ agencies share their design trend predictions.

36-37 Life As We Know It

63 What’s Hot?

How are the effects of 2020 impacting on our greeting card tastes - Pigment’s research findings sum it up.

Retailers share their best selling ranges.

39-51 Innovations

64-75 Sources of Supply

Societal Changes

Publishers’ new ranges and designs.

Subscribe to Progressive Greetings from £60 (UK) to £90 (International). You can organise this quickly and easily online at our secure site: www.max-subscriptions.net For assistance, please email subscriptions@max-publishing.co.uk

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Warren Lomax

Ian Hyder

Tracey Arnaud

Editor/Joint Owner

Joint Owner

Sales Manager

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Copyright© 2021. While every effort has been made to ensure the information in this magazine was correct at the time of publication, the publishers cannot accept legal liability for any errors or omissions, nor can they accept responsibility for the standing of advertisers nor any organisation mentioned in the text. Views of contributors do not necessarily reflect those of the publishers.

PG is the official magazine for the Greeting Card Association GCA: Amanda Fergusson 020 7619 9266 Email: hello@gca.cards www.greetingcardassociation.org.uk

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NEWS NEWS IN BRIEF

TOP STORY

Calling All Cardies The Retas 2021 are open for entries and nominations There is no doubt about it, in Left: The entry form for The Retas 2021. the face of adversity, so many Below: Just think how great would it be for everyone to be together at The Retas greeting card retailers have 2021 in mid July! A scene from the 2019 really pulled out the stops over event of happy retailers and publishers. TRY FO the last year and so deserve The only awa ard rds that celebra ate ng card rd re reta tailing in the UK to have this recognised - The we urge retailers not to be ENTER YO YOUR SHOP NOW! Retas 2021 awards will do modest and make the most just that. of the PR and moraleThe only dedicated boosting opportunity to put awards for greeting card themselves forward and blow ww ww.there ww eta tasawa ard rds.co.uk retailers, winning a Retas their own trumpet.” trophy is recognised as a true The deadline for retailers accolade of retailing excellence in the entering is Thursday 15 April. sector, with award categories covering An entry form is downloadable from the indies through to multiple chains, website (www.theretasawards.co.uk). department stores to grocers and As The Retas awards did not take everything in between. Publishers, agents place last year and no finalists were and reps are now being canvassed for announced, and taking account of the their nominations while retailers are being lockdowns when non-essential shops encouraged to nominate their shops. were unable to trade, the period covered by The Retas 2021 runs from 1 January 2020 up until 15 April 2021. In addition to the retail categories, there is also an award for Best Retail Employee, for those special members of staff who have gone the extra mile as well as Best Retail Initiative, which is for a specific promotion or piece of activity that a retailer has undertaken in the period covered by this year’s awards. “In the face of lockdowns and In keeping with the thriving passion restrictions, so many greeting card retail for houseplants and gardening, as well as stockists have found inventive ways to our yearn for green shoots of optimism, ensure that they survived during these the theme of The Retas 2021 is The challenging times. We’re really looking Finery of Greenery! forward to rewarding retail excellence, All Retas winners will be announced innovation, passion and commitment at a fabulous Awards lunch and afternoon the greeting card retailers who stand event to be held on Wednesday 14 July out head and shoulders from the in the Ballroom of the Grosvenor House crowd,” states Warren Lomax, joint md Hotel. Book your ticket online via Maxof Max Publishing, which owns and Tickets.net or contact The Retas’ awards organises The Retas. “While we are manager Clare Hollick, director of seeking nominations from publishers, Createvents on 01183 340085 or agents and reps for their nominations, clare@createvents.co.uk. Illustrations generously donated by Paperwhale www.paperwhale.co.uk

This year, greeting card retailers from the UK are invited to self-nominate th for The Retas 2021. Don’t be shy about entering! The Reta s a great opportunity for you as a reta your shop(s) and staff recognised and

CLOSING DATE FOR ENTRIES THURSDAY 15 APRIL 2021

Demanding Top Drawer With the physical show unable to take place, Top Drawer On Demand launched a comprehensive line-up of content for Spring/Summer 2021. From January 25-29, registered buyers were able to make the most of a programme of exciting product launches across the breadth of the show’s offering - including gifts, interiors, fashion, greetings and stationery, giftable food and drink, craft, and children’s products. In addition, industry experts shared their knowledge and advice throughout the week, with virtual versions of the show’s two seminar streams: RetailFest and Design Talk. Panel discussions and interviews were curated to inspire and educate retailers and designers, helping them to evolve and grow for continued success in a changing industry landscape. As the On Demand platform does not close until February 21, there is still time to source and discover new products. Visit www.topdrawer.co.uk

l Hallmark is launching its Christmas 2021 product at the end of January by showcasing the range through a virtual showroom with its area sales managers booking one-to-one Teams appointments with customers. Visitors will be taken on a video tour of the Christmas cards and gift packing. A digital and printed brochure, have been produced. l Unable to hold its planned glittering launch event, wholesale card publisher, Out of the Blue Studios is taking a flavour of the celebration to its customers. A goody ‘box’, containing some fine wine and chocolates along with samples are being delivered. Among the surprises is that it has expanded into giftwrap with Acquire, with an instock line, and that all of its Christmas 2021 Counter Range (almost 1,500 SKUs) will be produced on ‘Sustainably Sourced Board’ which has full FSC accreditation. Above: Tasty treats from Out of the Blue Studios.

l Diversification is ‘no sweat’ for Bexy Boo, as the card publisher is achieving a positive reaction to its latest move, into a range of super soft organic sweatshirts, each featuring inspirational messages. Right: Company founder Bexy Hassett in one of the new sweatshirts.

l Clanna Cards has introduced some 'very British' cello bags for its range of blank and Happy Birthday cards. The bags incorporate the Union Flag and GB logo that is also on the back of the cards to highlight that they are all designed and printed in Great Britain. Right: New wrapping from Clanna.

Addressing inclusivity Cath Tate Cards reinforces its belief in inclusivity as well as commitment to women cartoonists with a collection of designs by Dandy Doodlez into its wry Cath Tate Cartoons range. Dandy Doodlez is a disabled/chronically ill digital artist whose primary focus is on queer and disability representation. The tie-up came about as a result of Dandy working in an Oxfam store counter a few years ago, which sold lots of Cath Tate cards. Another notable licensing tie-up for Cath Tate Cards is its Max Made Me Do It collection, which is a new collaboration with interior design goddess Carol Maxwell, who has a strong following for her wallpaper, homewares, kids clothing and prints. (See pages 52-53) Above: One of the Dandy Doodlez designs.

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NEWS TOP STORY

Paperchase’s Waiting Game Suppliers braced for losses as retail chain seeks a way through As PG went to press, the industry was on tenterhooks, waiting to hear the plans for Paperchase. Coming as an unwelcome knock in early January was the news that Paperchase was seemingly edging towards going into administration. The retailer, which had been trading from 173 stores and concessions, filed a Notice of Intent (NOI) which saw accountancy firm PwC being appointed to establish a restructuring of the business. “This isn’t the end of Paperchase, but it gives 10 working days of breathing space to find the best way forward for a sustainable business,” Will Booth of Tulchan (the communications company brought on board to liaise with the media) told PG at the time.

Then, a day before the protection from the first NOI was to come to an end (January 19), it filed the courts for an extension (which was duly granted). This means that PwC and the Paperchase board now have up to February 3 to announce the best course of action for the retailer. “The fact that a second NOI has been granted is not bad news as it means that the conversations are going well,” assured Will. “It would only have accepted by the courts if it was in the interests of all parties,” he added.

While Paperchase has been trading under a CVA since March 2019, the retailer remained ‘cautiously optimistic’ after the first lockdown. However, in common with many other retailers, the cumulative effects of the trade disruptions, especially at the start of the Christmas shopping period is cited as having put undue strain on the business, with 40% of Paperchase’s sales coming from November and December. An official statement from the retailer relayed: “Paperchase is not immune despite our strong online trading. Out of lockdown we’ve traded well, but as the country faces further restrictions for some months to come, we have to find a sustainable future for Paperchase. “We are working hard to find that solution and this NOI is a necessary part of this work. This is not the situation we wanted to be in.” It is certainly not a situation Paperchase’s many card publishers wanted to find themselves in, not just for the monies owed (for Christmas products as well as everyday invoices that have not been settled), but also the loss of a sizeable and prestigious retail customer. As Ged Mace, managing director of The Art File commented: “While the writing has been on the wall for a while, it is such a shame on many levels, not just for the considerable losses we and other publishers stand to incur. Paperchase has been a longstanding bastion of great greeting card design, providing an invaluable stepping stone for many young publishers into the multiple scene as well as a good customer for many leading brands.” Discussions are underway with Paperchase’s greeting suppliers to try to negotiate a deal for outstanding amounts owed. Above left and top right: What is Paperchase’s future?

Cardies are up for a GOTY Following two rounds of online judging, the finalists of the 2021 Gift of the Year (GOTY) competition, were announced recently. Organised by The Giftware Association, GOTY spans 23 categories covering the whole spectrum of gifts. The finalists in the Cards & Wrap category are BeDazzled, Colour + Send Cards (from Lottie Simpson), Crafty Cards (from Two for Joy Illustration) and Message in a Bottle (from Alljoy). Greeting card company Go La La has also reached the finals in the Best Novelty category for its Filthy Gorgeous range of cheeky soaps. Meanwhile, Blue Eyed Sun is in the finals in two categories with its Bioloco Loop drinking bottles (in Contemporary Gift) and Bioloco Plant Lunch Pot (in Kitchen & Dining)

The winners will be officially unveiled during Spring Fair @ Home which will be able to be viewed from February 8 onwards on the Spring Fair platform as well as through the GA’s own channels. Top: Two for Joy Illustration’s Crafty Cards’ range reached the GOTY finals. Middle: The cheekily packaged soap from Go La La is up for a GOTY award. Right: The Bedazzled cards includes a sachet that adds sparkle to drinks.

Theo Paphitis at Spring Fair @ Home Unable to take place physically this year, instead of going to the NEC, Spring Fair can be enjoyed in your own home or workplace! Taking place digitally February 6-8. As well as being able to source a wealth of new products and see new launches (via the Virtual Showroom and Product Showcase elements), Spring Fair @ Home will include a packed agenda of talks. Topping the speaker line-up will be entrepreneurial retailer and business mogul Theo Paphitis. In an exclusive interview, Theo will discuss his experiences with the BBC’s Sasha Qadri, offering an insight into his experience, his views on the future of retail, and sharing advice for other entrepreneurs and small businesses. Spring Fair @ Home will also see Beth Horn, head of industry, retail & ecommerce at Facebook share her insights into the role social media will play in the future of retail, one of the biggest opportunities for retailers to harness. Trend insights will also make up a key portion of the Spring Fair @Home line-up, with appearances from Mintel, Colour Hive and Trend Bible. To register go to www.springfair.com/spring-fair-home Left: Theo Paphitis to speak during Spring Fair @ Home.

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NEWS TOP STORY

Online Card Sales To Double To 20% By 2024 Moonpig looks to raise £1billion in its stock market flotation. The greeting card industry found itself in the City spotlight in early January as online operator Moonpig laid its cards on the table by announcing its intention to go for a stock market flotation, one of the first of 2021. In what is both bold and astute timing, the Moonpig Group is going for it with its IPO, which is expected to value the company at an astonishing £1billion. The UK’s leading online player has unsurprisingly fared exceptionally well during the pandemic, with its sales in the six

months to end of October up 135% year on year, (reporting a revenue of £155.9 million). While greeting cards account for well over half of its sales (54%) under its main Moonpig and Netherlands-based Greetz business, gifts and flowers accounted for 46% of its sales in the 12 months to 31 October 2020. But the IPO pitch is very much as a ‘card-first gifting platform’ with the prospectus full of impressive stats as well

as the potential gainable ground. The company already offers over 20,000 different greeting card designs from its platforms. Moonpig was founded 20 years ago by Nick Jenkins (whose early agreement with Paperlink to offer its card designs to be personalised set the company on its way). Nick sold Moonpig for £100 million in 2011 to Photobox. Exponent Private Equity has owned the business since 2016. While Moonpig is already the established market leader in the online card space - selling some 46 million cards in the last year - it is the growth potential which the group adroitly highlights. Explaining that the online card market currently represents 10% of the total card market, the prospectus quotes OC&C’s predications that this will double to 20% by 2024. Continued customer acquisition, and in particular continuing to win customers migrating from the offline to online channel forms a key part of Moonpig Group’s stated growth strategy. There are estimated to be 53.8 million card purchasers in Moonpig Group’s core markets of the UK and the Netherlands. Moonpig Group’s active customers are estimated to purchase, on average, 23.0 cards each per annum, of which just 3.3 are estimated to be purchased from the Moonpig Group.

Giles Andreae’s Collaboration With Marcus Rashford

Above: Some 20,000+ card designs card available from Moonpig, as well as other products. Left: Online and App ordering on cards, gifts and flowers,has brought home the bacon for Moonpig.

Quick on the draw Really Wild Publishing is keeping up the pace with its Politically Incorrect sound card range (distributed to indies by Second Nature) which features caricatures of politicians and leading celebs. Having hit the big time (on the sales and PR fronts) with the likes of its Trump, Boris and most recently, Piers Morgan cards, on the day of the US President’s inauguration the publisher was ready to launch a Joe Biden design in its next raft of designs. Above: The new Joe Biden design from Really Wild’s Politically Incorrect range.

Hunger Monster Hunger’s always with me He never leaves my side He won’t let me ignore him However hard I’ve tried In the classroom, in the playground And even when I’m home He won’t stop hanging round me Or leave me on my own I sometimes sit and close my eyes… Imaging a day when Hunger simply packs his bags… And moves, far, far away www.aldi.co.uk/hunger

He brought ‘Bottom Burps’ to the world with Purple Ronnie; gave birth to The Pig of Happiness through his Edward Monkton incarnation (now from Pigment), not to mention spreading lots of joy through the Happy Jackson brand (with co-creator Heather Flynn), as well as through countless children’s books (Giraffes Can’t Dance for starters), but most recently Giles Andreae has used his talents to highlight and alleviate a serious issue - child food poverty in the UK. Giles joined forces with footballer and campaigner Marcus Rashford and illustrator Lisa Stickley in an Aldi campaign which has seen the grocer pledge to donate 10 million meals to the needy over 2021, working with the giving platform Neighbourly. Giles, the ‘greeting card laureate’ and revered children’s author, was approached by Aldi’s marketing agency BCW with a request for him to write a poem that would be animated to raise awareness of the heart-breaking issue of child food poverty, which is now affecting 1 in 5 children in the UK, a dramatic increase due to the pandemic. Giles was only too keen to lend his support and crafted the poem, entitled Hunger Monster (see above right), which was then brought to life through an animation (featuring the artwork of Lisa Stickley) and voiced by footballer and campaigner Marcus Rashford MBE, who has led the charge on pushing for free school meals for those in need. As Giles highlights: “To have Marcus reading the poem, adds real weight and authenticity,” to the whole project.” Top: The Hunger Monster animation stands to raise further awareness of how 1 in 5 children in the UK alone are suffering from food poverty. Left: Giles Andreae, who won a Henries Honorary Achievement award in 2011, was only too happy to be involved in Aldi’s worthwhile project. Right: Footballer Marcus Rashford MBE has been tirelessly campaigning for free school meals for needy children.

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NEWS TOP STORY

Steve Baker And Martin Powderly’s MBO Of Pigment Publisher’s directors acquire founder Ian O’Brien’s shares Starting the year with some good news, Steve Baker and Martin Powderly, the two popular front men of Pigment Productions now have total ownership of the Harrogate-based greeting card publishing business. Pursuing their dream, Steve (Pigment’s sales & marketing director) and Martin, (the publisher’s creative director) came to an agreement with Ian O’Brien, co-founder of the business, to purchase his shares. While Ian was instrumental in the business’ direction for many years - going right back to its origins over 30 years ago, when it was known as Photographix Unlimited, when he and his brother John published cards from their family’s vintage photographic archive - he has not been involved in the company’s day to day running for a few years now. As Steve and Martin stressed to PG: “Ian’s role in the shaping of Pigment cannot be underestimated and for that we are truly grateful.” Steve joined the Pigment team in 2002 while Martin (having been creative director of Hallmark for many years) came on board first on a consultancy basis in 2012 before joining full time in 2014.

Above: Pigment’s Steve Baker (left) (sales and marketing director) and Martin Powderly (creative director) now co-own the company. Below: Pigment has reintroduced the Edward Monkton brand to the greeting card market, in a new square format.

Working incredibly well together, drawing on their complementary skills, the last few years has seen Pigment successfully broaden its product portfolio, both with ranges (and own brand collections) developed by its in-house studio of artists as well as through licensed collaborations, such as Happy Jackson, Alice Scott, The Happy News and most recently, Edward Monkton. “Despite the unusual challenges in 2020 we ended the year strongly and with our strengthened management team we are really looking forward to taking the business in exciting directions over the next few years,” added Steve. (See pages 36-37)

Christmas & Gift Show moves to May While historically it kicks off the UK trade exhibition season, the Harrogate Christmas & Gift Show (seen as a key show for Christmas decs by all), that had been scheduled for the end of February, has been moved to May 9-11, and will be taking place at the Harrogate Convention Centre. Show organiser Simon Anslow commented: “We will keep everything crossed that the Covid situation is under control and we are able to continue with plans by this time. Ultimately the most important thing is the safety of everyone involved in the show, and the majority of the exhibitors signed up are keen to participate in Harrogate Christmas & Gift as and when it is able to happen.” As Simon points out: “The festive and gift industry, is unlike other industries where items are mostly branded and familiar to consumers; for these types of products, buyers really need to see and feel them to get the vibe of whether they will suit their store and customer requirements.” Above: The Harrogate Convention Centre will hopefully be welcoming visitors to Christmas Home & Gift in May.

Drew Barrymore spreads The Happy News There is something very right about spreading good news right now, and if you have the endorsement of a top actress who happens to have her own TV show to do it, with true conviction, all the better. And, if it has a positive knock-on effect on greeting card sales as well as the human psyche, it is a dream come true. Actress Drew Barrymore took to the airwaves on a recent episode of the Drew Barrymore Show, to not only give The Happy News (the UK-based newspaper which only features good news) a great big thumbs-up plug, but also invited its founder, Emily Coxhead, to appear on the show to talk about it. In her introduction to Emily, Drew said: “I think she is my British soul sister”, championing not only the concept of The Happy News brand, but the gumption of its creator who invented the newspaper in 2015 that has since spawned licensed ranges, including greeting cards from Pigment in the UK (that are distributed by Leanin’ Tree in the US).

Above: Drew Barrymore (right) with Emily Coxhead (creator of The Happy News).

Commenting about appearing on the programme, Emily confided to PG that it was “very nerve-wracking, but so exciting and as soon as I started speaking to Drew I felt comfortable and as though I was just chatting to a friend. She totally ‘got’ The Happy News and had been following it and me for a while on social media so genuinely did seem like a big fan of it”. As Emily added: “It’s kind of hard to comprehend having somebody so high profile be a fan of what you do, but Drew along with many others seems to be able to see the impact of sharing and celebrating happy news, especially in these strange times.” As Emily said on air, in a world that is rather overwhelming with so much disturbing news and happenings, hearing about kind people and positive things can help redress the balance. “You’ve got to look hard for the good things, but they are there,” Emily reinforced. Countering some people’s dismissal of The Happy News as being naïve, Emily told the viewers: “I don’t want to cover over the bad and pretend that it’s all sunshine and rainbows as it isn’t” but that she wants to “give people hope.” This unexpected high profile coverage has coincided with the launch of a new look to The Happy News greeting card range from Pigment.

FOR THE LATEST NEWS VISIT PGBUZZ.net PROGRESSIVE GREETINGS WORLDWIDE

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NEWS Loxleys’ Zero-Waste Launch

TOP STORY

Lockdowns Affect Card Factory, It Remains Assured Of Its Model The UK’s largest card specialist braced to break its banking covenants. "In a year, the like of which none of us have ever experienced, I am hugely proud of the way in which the Card Factory family has risen to the many challenges faced,” said Paul Moody, executive chairman of Card Factory in a trading update the retailer issued recently detailing its performance for the 11 months to the end of 2020 as well as its tentative predictions for 2021. The hard facts were not unexpected, given that its stores were closed effectively for over a third of the period. Its overall sales were well down, £281.4m as compared to £424.5m in the equivalent period the previous year. Its in store sales saw a decline of 38.1% year-on-year, while its online sales increased 137%. In common with many other card retailers, Card Factory experienced encouraging early Autumn sales boosted by consumers shopping early for Christmas. This was reflected in a 17.7% uplift from 1 October 2020 to the closure of Card Factory stores across the UK on or before 3 November for Lockdown 2. The trading update warns that the company is likely to break its banking covenants at the end of this month to tide it

over. “Our short term cash requirement can be covered within our existing £200m bank facility, we anticipate that current covenants will be breached at the end of January as the significant impact of the November and current national lockdowns are reflected in our trading performance. We continue to have constructive discussions with our banking syndicate,” explained Paul Moody. Sharing a pragmatic view of the future, a £10million pre-tax loss is on the cards for Card Factory for the full financial year. Commenting, Paul Moody added: “I remain convinced that the Card Factory brand, and quality with value proposition, resonates strongly with customers. Despite the obvious uncertainties in the first half of 2021, I am confident that we have the opportunity to return the business to sustainable profitable growth and will do all that is necessary in the near term to ensure that we can maximise that opportunity”. Above: Card Factory, like so many other nonessential retailers lost trade from a third of the year due to Covid-19. Left: While Card Factory’s online sales soared, they did not make up for the drop in store sales.

The Dury’s verdict

Blasting off the new year with the next stage in its mission to reduce the environmental impact of a greeting card, Sheffield-based printers Loxleys launched its Zero-Waste range of eco-solutions. Adding to the company’s growing environmental portfolio, Loxleys’ Zero-Waste collection includes special board, packaging initiatives (including its integrated cardboard Eco-Hook©), plastic alternatives (Secure-Seal) and all underpinned by eco production techniques (such as Loxleys Digital’s mineral-based toner). The range includes a 100% compostable and 100% plantable seeded board, made entirely from recycled materials. The seed embedded board allows consumers to send a card and flowers in one go. All the recipient needs to do is lightly soak the board, plant under soil, and watch their card bloom into wildflowers. While Loxleys is not the first company to offer a seed embedded board, it is part of the fully rounded approach.

Top: The new branding for the Zero-Waste initiative. Above: Using plantable seed board is a bloomin’ good way to reduce the environmental impact of a greeting card. All you need to do is soak the board and then plant it under a thin layer of soil.

As Alice Buck, Loxleys’ marketing coordinator, added “With card sending and receiving so deeply embedded into the British culture, the Zero-Waste range further encourages sustainable card giving. Each solution within the range is either compostable, recyclable or made from recycled materials (or all three), meaning there is no waste created in the process or left behind afterwards.” Right: Adam Dury.

Adam Dury, chief commercial officer of Card Factory shares his views on Christmas and hunch for 2021… Christmas verdict? “Unpredictable!!!” What was your Christmas strategy? “We made sure we had as much of our Christmas offer online to max sales when stores had to close so our customers could still shop with us. We launched our Christmas offer in some stores earlier. Later in the season, as the country moved to more regional variations of lockdowns we were able to carefully manage the stock to ensure it was in the right stores at the right time. We gave our customers more multi-buy offers within the Christmas ranges, plus we removed flitter and as much plastic as possible from our boxed card offer without any adverse results.” What changing customer buying patterns did you clock? “People were buying earlier, afraid of further lockdown. Customers seemed to favour roll wrap in particular, which we have assumed was due to posting parcels for Christmas, rather than being able to visit friends and family.” What were your top performers? “We were really pleased with the positive interest in our close caption cards and our breadth of offer overall.” What’s your hunch and approach for 2021? “We are frustrated with the further lockdown for the High St, as all retailers will be, but we know we have a responsibility to ensure our shoppers are safe. We’re all looking forward to opening again and trading some of our postponed new launches which were due this month!”

FOR THE LATEST NEWS VISIT PGBUZZ.net 18

PROGRESSIVE GREETINGS WORLDWIDE

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NEWS TOP STORY

Flame Tree To Distribute Andrews McMeel’s Collection Deal doubles the size of Flame Tree’s calendar and diary portfolio Marking a significant development in the calendar industry, Flame Tree Publishing is to distribute the Andrews McMeel Publishing’s (AMP) collection of 200+ calendars and diaries in the UK and Ireland. The deal also includes calendars published under the Universe Publishing and Abrams brands. The agreement, which covers AMP’s 2022 dated products, came about as a result of BrownTrout UK, the long serving distributor of Andrews McMeel, deciding to cease trading recently.

Frances Bodiam, managing director and co-owner of Flame Tree Publishing explained that she will be “ever thankful to Jack Straw”, the former managing director of BrownTrout UK “for the introduction to the Andrews McMeel team” which has led to the new arrangement which will bring benefits to both parties. “The addition of the Andrews McMeel collection will almost double the size of our calendar portfolio, and opens up new retailing opportunities,” adds Frances. Flame Tree already has a strong reputation for its collection of artbased calendars, through licences with

leading institutions and galleries (such as the Tate, V&A and Kew) as well as famed artists (including Anne Stokes, Angela Harding and Esté MacLeod), the addition of the Andrews McMeel titles substantially broadens its offer in a number of directions. Among the AMP ‘big hitters’ are Thomas Kinkade, Disney Kinkade, The Far Side, Dilbert, Peanuts and Bob Ross. In addition it also has licensing agreements with several gaming brands including Super Mario, Animal Crossing and entertainment properties, such as The Wire and Hamilton the Musical. Commenting on the AMP range, Flame Tree Publishing’s founder and publisher, Nick Wells, said “...their range of day-today and wall calendars particularly complements our own publishing and allows us to provide a much wider offer to the many sectors of the market.” President and publisher of Andrews McMeel, Kirsty Melville acknowledged how Flame Tree Publishing is “respected and renowned for exceptional content”, making them such as “well suited” partner “with product offerings that closely align and complement ours.” Top: American artist Bob Ross has a huge following. His calendar is published under the Universe Publishing brand, now distributed in the UK by Flame Tree. Above left: Frances Bodiam (centre) with some of her colleagues at The Calies awards. Left: The Andrews McMeel catalogue from Flame Tree Publishing.

Nigel Green flies high Nigel Green (left), a leading light in the UK calendar world, officially retired at the start of this year, with a whole host of plans for his personal ‘calendar’! Nigel has spent over 50 years in the print business, including the last 17 as the owner of Eight Days a Week, which working with his print partners, Alltrade Printers, has produced countless calendars for many leading publishers. “I have to say that my time in the industry has been really fantastic, highs and lows of course but I can honestly say the highs have far outweighed the lows,” said Nigel, who was awarded the Honorary Achievement Award at The Calies 2019, the calendar industry awards (organised by PG’s Max Publishing). His zest for life will see Nigel spending his retirement “playing more racquetball and tennis, keeping up my flying hours in my little Cessna 152 and hopefully, if accepted, I shall be embarking on a new challenge to study at my local university.” There is to be a smooth handover of the Eight Days a Week business to Alltrade Printers.

Ready Steady Dream enthuses Widdop and Co Major gift supplier Widdop And Co has unveiled its Spring/Summer 2021 campaign - Ready Steady Dream - which is about building towards the future, reaching higher, and beginning to really dream again, says the company. “We’ve taken inspiration from seven great innovators - Frida Kahlo, Oprah Winfrey, Walt Disney, Muhammad Ali, Richard Branson, Steve Jobs and Elon Musk - who were unafraid to push through tough times and achieve amazing things,” explains Widdop’s creative director Stephen Illingworth. “We’ve used their inspiring words and actions to lead the way to Ready Steady Dream.” Continuing, Stephen elaborated: “2021 is a year of change. It’s a new season in which to dream.” The Ready Steady Dream campaign features seven ‘pillars’ - Presentation, Showroom, Content, Events, Service, Product and Roadshows, linked in with the myriad of new ranges and product launches for Spring/Summer 2021. Key launches include a licensed tie-up with greeting card company Hotchpotch for its Sophia’s Frida collection of ladies Top: A product in the giftware that brings Sophia’s Frida (licensed together bright florals from Hotchpotch) range. and animal prints in an elegant way. “The range has something for everyone - glassware, stationery, home fragrance, jewellery and ceramic mugs,” highlights Stephen. Other launches include That’s not my... (based on a licensing agreement for the books of the same title) of children’s keepsakes and gifts. Also new is Harvey Makin’s Mad Man, a range for the modern man, featuring trendy tech and gadgets to include Bluetooth speakers, utensils, tools and stylish travel accessories. “We want to encourage people to book appointments with us to visit our showroom show, with extra Covid-safe measures in place to ensure all of our visitors are safe and feel at ease when visiting us,” emphasises Stephen. Stephen continued: “We are also providing VR showrooms live on our website [www.widdop.co.uk] so that retailers can explore our showrooms from the comfort of their own home.”

FOR THE LATEST NEWS VISIT PGBUZZ.net PROGRESSIVE GREETINGS WORLDWIDE

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OVER THE

COUNTER

BY DAVID ROBERTSON OF JP POZZI, ELGIN AND BUCKIE.

Not Loving

2021... Yet! Every month for the last ten we have all hoped that things would be a little bit better. We had hope that the vaccines would be the answer… and indeed they are. However right now, it feels like we are not yet loving 2021 and are being unfairly hard on ourselves while craving getting back to what we all do best and love the most. So 2021 what about you?…Welcome, great to see you, but in truth what has really changed? The New Year was brought in with a whimper. I have seen lots of jokes about people having had their ‘14 day trial of 2021’ and they just want to give it back! Sadly, this is not possible, no exchanges are accepted. So, we just have to get on with it, but not without recognising the impact this emotional rollercoaster is having on our psyche, our businesses and our sector.

We have stopped and started so many times since last March. We have shed real tears not just on lives being lost, but as we watched businesses built with hard work and passion be adversely affected or in some cases destroyed. We as card people were unnerved on hearing the bad news about Paperchase while rumours are rife of many others in difficulty in what was once such robust sector. What gave me a chink of hope though was randomly coming across a list of GCA members from 1997 and realising that a great number of those card companies are 24

PROGRESSIVE GREETINGS WORLDWIDE

still trading now. What does this prove? We are resilient that’s what, which is something we all need to remember. Right now though as I write this most indies, card and gift stores are closed and our sector is largely being serviced by garden centres (England only) and supermarkets that grow stronger by the day. If anything, we are back to where we were in November. Locked down and waiting on our turn for a literal shot in the arm. A shot that hopefully will allow concerts to happen, a cinema visit, a hug from a family member and… appointments to see real card samples! If you read this column you may think this start is similar to last month’s, well it is. That is how I feel. I think that is how we all feel. We haven’t really gotten over last year and here we are again. January is usually an exciting month in the greeting card world. We usually have Top Drawer, which gives us a first look at the trends that will come and then we are deluged with new line extensions and everyone wanting to show you product.

Above: We all could do with some industry ‘sunshine’. David Robertson at PG Live 2019 spending his Sunshine Ticket with Wendy Jones-Blackett. Left: The word ‘pivot’, a buzzword for 2020/2021, would earn 13 points in Scrabble! Below: David is a believer in not comparing yourself or your business to others.

Now don’t get me wrong, the cards are still coming. The designers haven’t lost their edge or stopped their creative brains working, even on furlough. It is just difficult when our doors are closed and we don’t know when they will open again to get as excited as we usually feel about new products. Many of us pivoted (defo a word of 2020 - scores 13 points in Scrabble!) to Click & Collect. We offered delivery and writing services and while so many of us have worked hard to create a valid online presence, what real sales will it generate in comparison to our doors being open? As I write this (on 11 January) there is no getting away from the overarching message to stay at home - only go out once a day for a walk and maybe once a week for shopping. And with the death rates and hospital admissions as high as they are, who can blame the government and the media for hammering home this message. Yet, this all leaves me and no doubt many others too, feeling inadequate. I feel like I am not doing enough, when the truth is I am. “It’s just a shop” I hear so many people say. Yes it is, but it is my shop. It is my livelihood. It is my bolt hole. It is my place of safety. It is my constant of the last 34 years. I want to let you guys know that if this is how you are feeling, it is ok. If you can’t

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OVER THE COUNTER

get started or you get distracted or lost in thought that’s ok. If you feel a little overwhelmed, that’s ok too. Feeling that I am not quite good enough seems to be my current go to, a self-doubt that I am not making it work. So, as I wrote in last month’s column I can only control myself, no-one else so I have to let this go. Yet I feel guilty because I feel I have kind of failed. I know I haven’t, but I feel I have. I know just surviving is good, but again this month I had to decide to leave settling my accounts for around four weeks to ensure that we could get through everything and again I felt bad about it. I tackled it head on, writing to the companies that were going to be paid late, meaning some would be on 60 days which I try to avoid.

I also worried about my Christmas returns as they are higher than normal but the last week was disrupted massively with the announcement and we also did really well with boxes and charity packs. Stop. Let me write that sentence again. I also worried about my Christmas returns as they were higher than normal, yet the last week was disrupted massively with the announcement and we also did really well with boxes and charity packs. I have started to make conscious decisions like the one above using small words such as ‘yet’. I didn’t get the card returns done yet. I have been busy serving today so I haven’t managed to answer those emails yet. Dr Carol Dweck is one of the leading mindset experts in the world and in her

TED talk she spoke about a Chicago High School that would write ‘not yet’ if a student failed to pass the exam. In this way it simply changed the focus from a fixed mindset to one where growth and achievement are always possible. Eg. I haven’t managed to run 5 miles yet… Another small word that can motivate is ‘and’. Rather than say “I have started to eat much better but now I need to exercise more” change ‘but’ for ‘and’. “I have started to eat much better and now I need to exercise more as well.” Simple! Pop culture would have us believe that adequacy comes from one of only a few areas - financial success, fame, career achievement, relationship status, or physical appearance. So, what do we do? We narrow our own vision accordingly and feel hopelessly inadequate if we’re not rich, famous, powerful, in love, or good looking. But these mainstays of pop culture are misguided. In 2020, and now 2021, being a good person comes from so much more. Having integrity, being curious, chasing inspiration, appreciating beauty in the world, speaking the truth, valuing the simple things and perhaps most of all we have realised that creating and maintaining loving relationships with friends and family is what we really crave. For the first time in our lives that full relationship experience is being denied to us and we all miss it. The simple hug, a reassuring hand on the shoulder. A shared connection is something we will never take for granted again. This also extends into our business lives. The card world is a small one and we are a bunch of people that enjoy being together and looking after one another. With my new heightened senses to my own mental health, I became aware of contingent self-esteem. This is when you allow someone else’s thoughts on you or your business to change how you feel about yourself. Sometimes this can be because someone makes a joke and tries to undermine you. Sometimes it can be because someone just tells you something straight. That is their opinion and you know if this is something that you value or you don’t. I value hard work and honesty above £millions of profit. Someone can have a

Left: A meme David feels we all need to pay attention to for our own mental health. Below left: David’s hallway of his current home, which is more than a house. Below right: Swearing isn’t big or clever, but it is sometimes appropriate.

great business, be totally switched on and dedicated, but perhaps not have the financial return of something else. Does that make it less valuable? It just depends on how you measure it. Just now, someone else’s opinion or comparison means little. It is ok to just get through the day. I am trying to accept this. I am trying to accept that I can’t get everything done. You just have to try your best every day and be satisfied you gave it your all. Tonight, I couldn’t write. I was trying to find the perfect words and actually I just decided to say what I felt and how I was feeling because I think that is the right thing to do. We are worried about friends, family, money, our job, our business, if United will go top of the league or a million other things. No-one is or will ever be perfect. The brushed ‘Instagram reality’ is the exact opposite. It is not real. Think about it a bit like a showhouse. Everything is amazing and perfect and beautiful, but it is soulless. When I moved into my first house, it was all about the furniture/the pictures/the kitchen. I recall my Mum saying to me: “You have a lovely house, but it is not a home.” That stuck with me and while my 20 year old self dismissed it, as is so often the case, she was right and I understand it now.

I mentioned earlier that Man United could go top of the league for the first time since Alex Ferguson retired - and indeed they have! This whole thing reminds me of when Fergie was interviewed in 1999 after scoring two goals in injury time to win the European Cup Final in the final minutes. He simply said: “Football eh?… bloody hell”. For me it’s a bit like that now - Life eh?… bloody hell! To contact David email: jppozzi@btconnect.com PROGRESSIVE GREETINGS WORLDWIDE

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cardsharp

Sisters Are Doin’ It

For Themselves As Cardsharp perused the pictures of The Henries 2020 winners, in what was a historic year for both the awards and our trade, he reflected on what was a timely triumph in female supremacy. Adding extra poignancy, the television was on in the background and was screening the historical epic, Mary Queen of Scots. Cardsharp was more than happy to tap into his feminine side and acknowledge a proud surge of oestrogen.

In a dramatic scene in the 2018 Mary Queen of Scots film, John Knox, the father of Scottish Protestantism, railed loudly and violently against the poor (and the later to be beheaded) Mary, as being part of a “Monstrous Regimen of Women”. Mary was the first female ruler of Scotland while over the border, the English monarch was Elizabeth the First, then the second ever female ruler of England. In the 16th century, even an ‘enlightened’ protestant reformer like John Knox, thought that women were inferior to men, capable only of domestic chores and childbearing. Jump forward to the early 20th century, not much more than a long lifetime ago, and suffragettes like Emmeline Pankhurst were being imprisoned for their battle for women’s right to vote. And if that led to equality of the sexes, you had another thing coming.

PROGRESSIVE GREETINGS WORLDWIDE

Women were still kept firmly in their place. Even in the UK it was only in 1948 that women could be awarded a degree. Up to then the best they were given was a ‘Diploma’, and then even only if they recorded higher marks then the men. Cardsharp recalls it was not until the late 1960s that a prolonged strike at the Ford Factory in Dagenham that led to Barbara Castle (who was also the first women to hold a very senior cabinet position in government) introducing the Equal Pay Act, which gave legal protection for women doing similar roles to men to be paid the same. So, why the Cardsharp history lesson? Well, it occurred to him that despite of how far women have come in terms of achieving equality since John Knox’s tirade, there are certain sectors where there

Above: Christabel Pankhurst (daughter of Emmeline) and Annie Kenney, campaigning in 1908. Left: The 2018 Mary Queen of Scots film details the first female ruler of Scotland. Below: John Knox’s 1558 blast of the Protestant trumpet was initially targeted at Mary Tudor, England’s first ever female ruler.

is still a lot of work to do. Top positions in Footsie companies and the UK’s largest plcs are still dominated by men. Karen Hubbard, until June, ceo of Britain’s largest greeting card retail chain, Card Factory, was a notable exception, as was Kate Swann, when she was running WHSmith (now chairman of Moonpig). And there are many sectors like construction, engineering, the military and sports administration, where there are virtually no females in any relatively senior positions. But as Cardsharp continued to browse his PG, just as poor Queen Mary was about to face the executioner’s axe, the realisation struck that thankfully the same cannot be said of our greeting card industry. We should be proud of industry’s role as a pioneering one for women in the UK. Cardsharp just had to look at this year’s Henries winners to see this. Of the 18 new product categories, some 15 of

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those proudly brandishing the trophies were female. And of these, most were not the designers, but the managing directors and indeed the owners of the publishing companies that had scooped the awards. And some of female publishers had not only bagged a single award, but the likes of Rosie Made A Thing, Louise Mulgrew Designs and Paper Salad (if you count their licensed Glick giftwrap range) scooped two! And they were joined by other female-owned publishing companies, like Cherry Orchard Publishing, Belly Button Designs, Jess Hogarth, Raspberry Blossom and Dandelion Stationery. Added to these are Wendy JonesBlackett and Five Dollar Shake, both wife and husband combos, but Wendy and Beth firmly make their companies’ respective creative footprints. And indeed, reflected Cardsharp, it was fitting that this year’s Honorary Achievement award was given to Cath Tate, founder of the eponymous company, whose whole career has included fighting inequality. All of these female-led card publishers, as their Henries 2020 trophies testify, have been responsible for the myriad of best-selling and innovative new ranges that have sold so well in the last year or so. However, it goes further than that in our industry. Amanda Fergusson is ceo of the GCA and the trade association’s president is Rachel Hare (founder and leader of Belly Button Designs). The UK ceo of global giant Hallmark, Amanda del Prete is on the Council among other notable females, including the latest additions Tineka Smith of Huetribe and Adriana Lovesy of Mrs Lovesy, who also rightfully reflect the need for diversity to be properly represented. And further bolstering the strong female line up on the GCA Council is Jakki Brown, joint owner and editor of Progressive Greetings for 30 years. It has been a long time coming, but the greeting card association in the UK is not only

headed up by a woman, but the Council is now a balance of the sexes. However, perhaps the greatest accolade the UK greeting card industry can claim, is that this position of equal opportunities has not been achieved by any positive discrimination or employment quotas. No, it has been achieved organically in a highly competitive industry where it is quality of design that counts. Service and logistics are of course important, especially as companies grow, but the ultimate course to success is product. And it would seem in this department in recent years, women have not just been equal of men, but superior. One could say this is because 85% of greeting cards are bought by women, so it is not surprising that women are so strongly represented. But it was not always the case. In the 1970s and 1980s there was barely a woman in a senior position in the card trade. Back then the greeting card industry was very manufacturer-orientated, so it was not really surprising that men dominated. In the 1980s more creative-led publishers like Kingsley Cards, Simon Elvin and of course Andrew Brownsword came to prominence, but although their principal creatives may have been women, these publishers were still owned by great male entrepreneurs, namely Jeff Bottomley, Simon Elvin (albeit with Janet Elvin a breath away) and Andrew Brownsword. The ranks of the GCA council were exclusively male then and as far as Cardsharp’s recollections go, the first woman did not appear on the Council until the 1990s. The first woman GCA president was not appointed until the late noughties and yet now both the present and previous incumbent have been female.

Left: Rosie Harrison, founder and md of Rosie Made A Thing with her two Henries 2020 trophies. Below left: A Belly Button Designs card design which celebrates female friendship. Below right: Sisters Are Doin’ It For Themselves, recorded in 1985 by the British pop duo Eurythmics and American singer Aretha Franklin immediately became a feminist anthem.

It really was when ‘Sisters were doin’ it for themselves’, to quote the Eurythmics/Aretha Franklin feminist anthem, that these changes really started to occur. Talented creatives realised they really had the ability to make a good business for themselves and not just for a publisher employing them. The original trailblazers were the likes of Louise Tighe, owner of Paperlink and the aforementioned Cath Tate, but a whole raft of today’s successful publishing female-owned names have followed...Belly Button Designs, Cinnamon Aitch, Cherry Orchard, Holy Mackerel, Paper Salad and Wrendale Designs to name just a few. Cardsharp also poses another question. Is the generally civilised and friendly nature of competition between what could be seen as erstwhile enemies

because of the lack of alpha male machismo in the industry? Is it the absence of ‘out of control’ testosterone which helps make up the famously social nature of the greeting card trade? If so, Cardsharp concludes we have yet another reason in the greeting card industry to be thankful for what that 16th century reformer John Knox called that ‘Monstrous Regimen of Women’!

PROGRESSIVE GREETINGS WORLDWIDE

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VIEWPOINTS

So, How Was

Christmas?

Below: One of Cardies’ Ponks, looking ‘enthusiastic’ about 2021!

It was not the Christmas trading period anyone asked Santa for, but ‘it was what it was’. A bunch of greeting card retailers shared with PG how they approached the festive run-up, their respective experiences, top performing products as well as their hunches for 2021.

John and Jennie Procter, co-owners of Scribbler: Verdict? “Frustrating, penalising, S#*t - you choose!” How did it go? “Impossible to calculate as we had to close so many shops, but based on limited sales data we would have had a very strong performance if we had been allowed to trade.” Your strategy? “We put out our Christmas cards super early; we focused on generic gifts rather than seasonal ones; we ran major online promotions across all departments and ran more multi-buy options than in previous years.” Customer buying patterns? “Customers who actually ventured out were really spending, but so many shopped online.” Top performers? “As ever, single Christmas cards. Games were also very strong.” Your hunch and approach for 2021? “Ask Boris!! Actually we are feeling quietly optimistic about 2021 as long as the Government continues to help out and the very few aggressive idiot landlords actually pick up a newspaper and see what is going on! Retail overheads are long overdue a shakedown - if this happens the High Street will have a renaissance with great opportunities for the next generation of greeting card and gift entrepreneurs - good luck to them all! Meanwhile, we are really pleased to be collaborating with Sainsbury’s and are looking forward to growing our wholesale arm.” Top: A VIP greeter in Scribbler’s Manchester store. Above: John and Jennie Procter, Scribler’s co-founders. Right: One of the topical cards from Scribbler.

Mark Janson-Smith, managing director of Postmark, Londonbased group of four shops: Verdict? “Frustrating.” How did it go? “We couldn't get enough packs in and were 13% up year on year on our pack sales, which is incredible considering we lost November store sales. Single card sales ended up pretty much level on the previous year, but we lost the last week of sales on these which is when we normally do a large proportion so no doubt our singles sales would have been considerably up too had we remained open.” Your strategy? “We put Christmas out a lot earlier which worked well. Customers were coming out less frequently but buying more when they did venture out. Also, our full collection went online for the first time to make up for being closed in November, including roll wrap which we have never offered online before.” Customer buying patterns? “Consumers were making less trips to the shops than they used to, but buying more when they did. I also Customers feel this was helped by the stores not Above: queuing to get into Postmark, Balham. being as full. We definitely lost Above: Postmark’s Mark customers who didn’t want to queue, Janson-Smith is cautiously optimistic but for the ones who did, the about 2021.

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Broadgate, Broadway Business Park, Chadderton, Oldham OL9 9XE UK T: +44(0)161 688 1226 F: +44(0)161 682 6808 sales@widdop.co.uk www.widdopandco.co.uk

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VIEWPOINTS shopping experience was much nicer than in 'normal' years as they had the space to shop. We definitely noticed a huge shift to more eco-friendly packaging and The Art File’s plastic-free packs were stunning. I don't think the environment was the consumer’s biggest concern, but I think as an industry we have moved on brilliantly so there was less need for them to actively hunt out more eco options as it was more widely available.” Top performers? “I just couldn't get enough boxes! Museums & Galleries’ products were excellent - our best performers by a mile on packs. We sold out of all our stores’ stock of some designs before we even re-opened, driven a lot by web sales. The Art File’s plastic-free boxes and trio packs did well as did products from Woodmansterne. A last minute winner for us was Megan Claire's Lockdown range which we reordered a few times and was absolutely spot on. We couldn’t get enough rollwrap. Glick flew out and we got Unique in last minute and that flew. Artebene did well too. Our best selling flat wrap came from Rifle which was stunning and sold out pretty quickly across the board. We offered a lot more eco-friendly wrappings for Christmas which went down well. The paper bows and ribbons were very well received.” Your hunch and approach for 2021? “Cautiously optimistic! I am very excited about 2021. I feel as long as this is the last lockdown, we can come out all guns blazing when it is lifted and really push on to have a great year. I don’t think we will hugely change our buying approach for Christmas 2021, we will probably increase our pack purchases again as we are seeing sales of these increasing each year. We will also continue to grow our eco-packaging offering.” Above: Among Postmark’s best sellers was Museums & Galleries’ Goldfinch Garden charity pack, featuring a design by Cressida Bell.

Michael Apter, owner of Paper Tiger, two shops in Edinburgh, Scotland: Verdict? “Done!” How did it go? “People spent more across all categories of Christmas products. We more than doubled our Advent calendar sales on the back of a strong year in 2019. Family cards also sold well - 50% up overall despite lower footfall in our city centre stores.” Your strategy? “We put out the displays earlier, promoted it, offered more online and a lot more - our whole team has worked really hard to Above: Paper Tiger’s Michael Apter and one of his colleagues with a taster of make the best of difficult circumstances.” the Christmas cards it offered. Customer buying patterns? “People Below left: Woodmansterne scored highly for Paper Tiger. shopped earlier, the 'last minute rush' was Below: Click & Collect was well used by Paper Tiger. already on the wane and Covid has seen that fall away even more. Environmental concerns were apparent to an extent although the damages to unbagged stock are not sustainable or particularly environmentally-friendly. Compostable cellophane has to become industry standard!” Top performers? “Family cards from Woodmansterne; boxed cards from The Art File and charity cards across the board, notably Caroline Gardner and Museums & Galleries. Our Advent calendars success came from a broad spectrum of suppliers, including Woodmansterrne, Caspari, Roger la Borde and The Art File.” Your hunch and approach for 2021? “Evolving, certainly! Covid has accelerated existing patterns of consumer behaviour that we will take on board. Paper Tiger is 40 years old this year and I am very excited about our plans for the year ahead. Edinburgh is still a stunningly beautiful place to visit, and our visitors will return. I also anticipate that many office workers will be back at their desks by late April - I think the novelty of working from home five days a week is wearing thin for many people.”

Jo Sorrell, owner of Cardies, Stevenage, Herts: Verdict? “Phew! What a weird end to a weird trading year!” How did it go? “Amazingly against all the odds we managed to keep Christmas on track and our December sales were on par with the previous year, even though we went into Tier 4 and I broke my hand on 20 December. While we weren’t able to open for the last and usually busiest few days leading up to Christmas, we were able to offer an ‘order and collection’ service for those last few days, but this brought in nothing like the usual sales we would have notably we lost the male Christmas Eve shoppers.” Your strategy? “While we were in the November lockdown we did as much as we possibly could with orders, collections and local deliveries. We encouraged customers to either call us or direct message via Facebook or Instagram, which seemed to work quite well.

Below: Big Ben and Orberry, two of the Ponks helping to promote a beautiful Ponks postbox topper that was made by Jo’s talented Auntie to bring some cheer to Stevenage High Street and raise funds for the Mayor’s charities. Approximately 20 different toppers were made and put out across Stevenage by #stevenagechristmasknitters.

After coming out of November lockdown we were slightly worried that perhaps many of our customers might have done all of their Christmas shopping either online or in supermarkets. However, we were absolutely amazed and thrilled to find that so many had waited for our return. Planning for anything in 2020 just seemed quite futile so our key word was ‘adapting’ and last resort muddling through as best we can! We spent a lot more time posting as much information and products on social media as we could. This seemed to be very helpful for many and generated new interest and business. We decorated the railings outside of the shop into a Ponks’ [Jo’s many Labradors] winter wonderland using upcycled greeting cards and calendars.” Continued on page 33 PROGRESSIVE GREETINGS WORLDWIDE

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VIEWPOINTS

Customer buying patterns? “It seemed to us that people were very keen to send Christmas cards. It seemed that perhaps more than ever people wished to stay connected in some physical way. Cards for their loved ones proved to be even more popular with many buying more captions than perhaps they normally would.” Top performers? “Packs and boxes of cards sold well, especially charity packs. It certainly seemed people were sending more than usual. We stocked a small selection of cards from local artists as many customers were expressing that they wanted to support us as we were one of their local small businesses, so in turn we wanted to show our support for local too. In humour Rosie Made a Thing sold well as did Redback. Nigel Quiney’s traditional relations cards were popular,

Woodmansterne’s Quentin Blake relations cards went down well while Wendy Jones-Blackett and Belly Button ranges were both popular in special captions and generally.” Your hunch and approach for 2021? “I’m ever the optimist and believe that we will gradually be able to regain some normality. Once we do I think people are more eager than ever to use their local bricks and mortar businesses, as I believe many have realised just how much more important it is to use them or lose them. They do appreciate all that an independent retailer has to offer... choice, service, individuality as well as knowledge and of course a good chat, putting the world to rights, and most importantly from us, a meet and greet from one of the Ponks. We have all our fingers and paws crossed for a brighter 2021.”

Marion and Mark Flaherty, owners of Best Wishes, Garstang, Lancashire:

Customer buying patterns? “We didn’t sell a huge amount of Advent calendars, can’t think why! While environmental concerns were evident on the giftwrappings front - we sold quite a bit of Unique’s Eco paper and rolls of brown paper and craft tags - but on the card front, as far as not wanting glitter and avoiding cello wrap, I think after the year we have had, if they liked a card, they were going to buy it!” Top performers? “As usual the UKG Special Editions’ charity range of boxes and cello packs did well. Other cello packs from Tracks, Paperlink and Ling also sold out, while Ling’s religious selection also went well. Peter Pauper Press’ beautiful keepsake magnetic closure boxes didn’t stay on the shelves for long, while the emergency back up from the wholesalers of Tom Smith and Mistletoe Press products pleasantly surprised us, for quality and price.” Your hunch and approach for 2021? “Going onwards into 2021 we were gutted but were not surprised when the Tier 4 roll out was announced, but we have a roof over of heads and are a lot better off than a lot other people. Good luck to everyone out there in retail land!”

Verdict? “One word to describe this Christmas and most of the year has to be - Challenging.” How did it go? “In general, our Christmas trade was above our expectations in the current climate - down about 10%, but recouping most of the lost card sales for November. We didn’t sell as many gifts due to the customers not feeling they could spend as much time browsing when we often had other people queueing outside. We sold more boxes of cards than the previous year which surprised us as we expected many people to have purchased them in November while on furlough, but Christmas-themed giftware/ornaments weren’t high on the shopping list.” Your strategy? “We kept busy even during the November Lockdown, albeit without customers in the shop, pulling back the stands in the window to give more display area and changing the display as often possible. We also continued with our ‘Select and Collect’ service, that we began in the spring and are continuing with again now in January. In December we had a Woodwick candle promotion which went well and created multiple purchases from a number of customers.”

Jon May, co-owner of Mooch in Bewdley and Stourport-on- Severn: Verdict? “Fabulous.” How did it go? “Christmas for us was one of the best for both of our stores since we first opened our doors nearly six years ago. We were significantly up, fortunate to benefit from customers supporting local, not shopping in the larger cities but very much keeping it local in the smaller market towns.” Your strategy? “For the first time we launched all our Christmas card ranges online before launching in our stores. We launched Christmas online on 25 September then in our stores on 31 October. When we went into lockdown in November our sales transferred from our physical stores to online with the platform almost

Above: Wendy Jones-Blackett’s special captions and general designs sold well in Cardies.

Above: There was some al fresco selection going on at Best Wishes. Left: Christmas trade was strong for Best Wishes.

Left: Mooch’s window displays were showstoppers!

going into meltdown with November becoming one of our busiest ever, even with both stores closed. We invested in two vintage snow scene TVs for our windows this year along with the graphics "Twas the Night Before Christmas". We couldn’t believe the response from customers and people who had never noticed our stores before. It was good to see people of all ages actually stopping to watch the TVs and taking time to see what we were all about. We were delighted to be selected by BIRA as one of the top 10 Christmas Windows in its competition.” Customer buying patterns? “Christmas card sales were very strong. We saw people were making a Continued on page 35 PROGRESSIVE GREETINGS WORLDWIDE

Here for you through 2021

(t) 0116 230 4197 • (e) sales@mint-publishing.co.uk • (w) www.mint-publishing.co.uk

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VIEWPOINTS concentrated effort to send family and friends a card; to send their love as many would not physically see them. Our pack sales were strong and our single card sales were up nearly 30% on 2019. While we found many people bought cards early, customers were still spending £20+ on Christmas cards on Christmas Eve.” Top performers? “Among our top Christmas card performers were The Art File (singles and wallet pack

collections), Louise Tiler (singles and packs), Rosie Made a Thing (packs) and Wendy Jones-Blackett (singles).” Your hunch and approach for 2021? “So much of 2020 was hard work and unfortunately not fun with policing customers, social distancing, facemasks and sanitising. Hopefully this will be all behind us for Christmas 2021! My only worry is with the lack of trade shows hunting out new products and suppliers is going to be increasingly difficult in 2021!” Left: A topical post on Mooch’s social media from Rosie Made a Thing, one of the retailer’s best selling publishers at Christmas.

Michelle Ellingham, owner of Box of Delights, Flitwick, Bedfordshire: Verdict? “Challenging! Heartbreaking!”

Below: Box of Delights went for it withn its festive window.

How did it go? “Gosh I really wish we had been busy in the week leading up to Christmas! Our Christmas trade from December 2 was completely overwhelming, the support from our loyal customers blew me away, in turn they were very satisfied with the safe shopping experience we provided. Our card sales went through the roof as many customers wanted to wait for us to reopen rather than purchase in the supermarket or garden centres! Boris’ announcement on Saturday 19 December that we were in Tier 4 forcing us to close immediately shattered our Christmas beyond belief. The devastation of losing the most important five days business of the entire year was completely irretrievable.” Your strategy? “As novices we created and set up our own new webshop in super quick time, tirelessly adding stock, which felt like a laborious task, but knew it was essential! As we were locked down from November 4 it meant I could give more thought and attention to our three window displays wanting to create thoughtful, magical displays that would include as many products as possible, to encourage potential sales! Social media was an essential tool, posting products each day and providing a ‘Click & Collect’ service.” Customer buying patterns? “More customers bought in bulk for many occasions, Above: One of the many products promoted by Box of Delights on not just Christmas as they were concerned about social media was this face covering from Five Dollar Shake. another lockdown. On the Christmas front close relations cards, boxes and packs sold much earlier than usual while on the non-Christmas front, anything connected to thinking of you and family sold well.” Top performers? “Publishers who were our top performers at Christmas were The Art File, Belly Button Designs, Caroline Gardner, Cinnamon Aitch, Five Dollar Shake, Janie Wilson, Ling Designs and Woodmansterne Publications.” Your hunch and approach for 2021? “I’m feeling nervous about 2021. Before the November lockdown, I started to feel the confidence to order new Spring Seasons, but now I’m not only deeply concerned that we might not reopen, but also that we still have stock that wasn’t sold from last year. I’m so very sad and disappointed that I haven’t been able to meet with my reps/agents to view their exciting new products from the companies they represent. I so miss all so many things about our industry that we can no longer take for granted.”

Rachael Barnes, co-owner of Dragonfly Cards & Gifts, Knaresborough, Yorkshire: Verdict? "Heartwarming - Our customers did everything they could to support us and the whole community pulled together.” How did it go? “The week commencing 14 December was significantly up on the previous year, as customers shopped earlier to allow time for posting. Christmas week was down as a result, with Christmas Eve seeming strangely calm without swathes of drunken men calling in on the way home from the pub! Sales wise December as a whole ended up almost exactly the same as the previous year. Individual card sales were down slightly, but partyware and gifts were both up, as customers opted to do everything in one shop.” Your strategy? “We put our Christmas displays out about three weeks earlier than usual, at the beginning of October, and customers started buying straight away. I don't think I've ever sold a wife Christmas card in October before! We offered private shopping sessions in the evenings and Sunday afternoons for half an hour. These were hugely popular. We also offered a ‘Click & Collect’ type service for the period of lockdown, particularly for helium balloons.” Customer buying patterns? “In the three days before the November lockdown started, we took (saleswise) what we normally do in two weeks, as everyone scurried in to stock up on their cards. Most of our cards are unwrapped now, which we thought might be a nightmare at Christmas with envelopes going astray, but we trialled putting the envelope inside the card and this proved successful.” Top performers? “The fully recyclable craft paper from Jackson's was hugely popular.” Your hunch and approach for 2021? “We are quietly optimistic about 2021. There has been a real resurgence in shopping local, so hopefully this will continue.” Above right: Part of the Christmas display in Dragonfly Cards & Gifts. Above: Rachael Barnes.

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Societal Changes

It has long been accepted that in order to maintain their relevance, greeting card designs, as well as the sentiments and humour that feature upon them, need to reflect ever evolving societal tastes and nuances. During this monumental period in all our lives, Pigment Productionsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; senior designer Hannah Matthews undertook a research project into how our experiences and feelings during this pandemic have changed us, and then viewed these insights through a commercial greeting card lens, to help ensure the publisherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s latest launches are in tune with life as we know it. Are you a tea or a coffee fan? A cat or a dog lover? A gin or champagne drinker? A lover or a fighter? Sorted. And now for the deciderâ&#x20AC;Śare you an Essentialist or a Hedonist? The last question refers to the two main groups of UK consumers (with a healthy overlap), as identified in the multi-faceted research project undertaken by Pigment Productions, the insights of which are evident in the publisherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s latest launches. Hannah Matthews joined Pigment almost two years ago, bringing her experience in both trend forecasting

(having worked for the respected Trend Bible) as well as greeting card design (having been part of Hallmarkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ideation team) to the Harrogate-based card business. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There are a lot of over-arching trend prediction companies out there, but having Hannah in our team, someone with such insights, acumen as well as a knowledge of creating relevant greeting cards, has proved invaluable, especially in a period of such seismic change,â&#x20AC;? commented Martin Powderly, creative director and co-owner of Pigment.

Left: Hannah Matthews with her beloved cat, William. Above: One of the top selling designs in the Hey Girl range as it is so appropriate to current circumstances.

As Hannah explained, while an individual rarely fits snugly into â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;a box of behavioursâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; in which they reside forever, there are general patterns of behaviour, belief systems and tastes that emerge, not least over the last 10 months since the coronavirus became an unfortunate everyday reality. â&#x20AC;&#x153;With greeting cards ever more important in the way we communicate with each other we wanted to help make sure that the cards we published at Pigment reflected these changing routines, attitudes,

Meet The Essentialists And Hedonists Hannah proposes that the impact of the last year on our attitudes and behaviours has divided the population into two main groups The Essentialists and The Hedonists. â&#x20AC;&#x153;While these are not hard and fast camps, and a lot of us are a mixture of both, there are some commonalities which we find useful to bear in mind when designing our cards,â&#x20AC;? says Hannah. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Essentialist is someone who is likely to have placed an importance on sustainability, so would probably look for cards that are easily recyclable. They would also be more into self-care, adopt a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;less is moreâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; attitude to their clothing and grocery purchases, concerned with shop local and provenance,â&#x20AC;? explains Hannah. The Hedonist on the other hand is likely to â&#x20AC;&#x153;be looking for Far left: Which type of person are you? Above: Three Hedonists heading for a entertainment experiences, getting together with friends over a few â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Zoomâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; party? A Ribticklers design. cocktails (via Zoom right now!) and adopts an optimistic approach. Left: Self care is one of the attributes of an Essentialist, as reflected on this new More of everything is her name of the game!â&#x20AC;? says Hannah. Artisan Days design.

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Societal Changes

interests, life choices and tastes,â&#x20AC;? explained Hannah. Last summer she set to with a vengeance to clock and decipher the trends reflected in the issues, interests, hobbies, everyday patterns and feelings that have wafted and woven their way across all manner of media articles, were echoed in Google searches, amplified in retail shopper reports and celebrated in all their visual glory on Instagram and Pinterest. â&#x20AC;&#x153;You have to recognise that not every trend is relevant to greeting cards, but so many are. The skill for us at Pigment is to highlight a trend and then view it through a greeting card lens to ensure that the resultant design or range is appropriate for the time. And in greeting cards, it is not

Left: A design of the times! One of the best selling Riff Raff designs. Right: The uplifting image that appears on the inside cover of Pigmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s latest catalogue.

about being the first to spot that trend, but about getting the timing right so that enough people view that design as relevant to both themselves and the respective recipient as to make it commercially viable which is the key.â&#x20AC;? As well as roughly dividing the UK greeting card purchasers/receivers into two main groupings - of Essentials and Hedonists (see separate box), Hannah and the Pigment team have highlighted a handful of driving influences which the publisher has taken

Join Hannahâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tour of five driving insights that are likely to impact on consumersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; greeting card selectionsâ&#x20AC;Ś l Radical Kindness: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Deep compassion and kindness is at the fore like never before. We are all feeling vulnerable, not just in our own lives, but on a bigger scale. Our way of dealing with this is to help others, be involved in a local community, shop local, deliver shopping to the neighbours, relish the feeling of giving.â&#x20AC;? Above right: A new love of houseplants and gardening generally has become a feature in many peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lives, as reflected on this new Alice Scott design. Above: A design from the recently launched Edward Monkton range that celebrates kindness. Left: The expectation of gender neutral baby cards is part of our drive for more inclusivity and diversity, as reflected on this new design in The Happy News range.

l Wonderful You: â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is a huge one. It is all about the important drive for better representation. From the #MeToo movement on sexual abuse to Black Lives Matter on diversity, people are rightfully claiming their right to be fairly represented, be it through gender neutral new baby cards to figurative designs that recognise our multi-cultural society, we now need to feel a confidence in celebrating our uniqueness.â&#x20AC;?

into consideration when developing its new clutch of designs and ranges. â&#x20AC;&#x153;These are not prescriptive, but have been incredibly useful to have a broader reference in mind as we have developed new ranges and designs. While some of the trends are very much here to stay long after the pandemic has passed, others are more directly linked to current behaviours and lifestyle habits,â&#x20AC;? says Hannah. â&#x20AC;&#x153;One thingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s for sure, the greeting cards of 2020/2021 will tell an equally potent a tale of societal changes that will match that portrayed in the mainstream media and social media channels,â&#x20AC;? adds Hannah.

l New Routines: â&#x20AC;&#x153;From tending to our houseplants, embracing our new pets, immersing ourselves in new fitness regimes, cooking up new dishes, organising our home office to making time to read in the bath, the pandemic has forced a new timetable of activities onto our lives, which has prompted self-care and reflection.â&#x20AC;? l Meaningful Connections: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Friends and family have never been so important as reflected in the increased role greeting cards have played in making that connection when we have been unable to meet up physically. Sincere and meaningful editorial that is seen to be authentic will become more sought after as we look to further nurture those important relationships in our lives.â&#x20AC;?

l Joy Seekers: â&#x20AC;&#x153;After an extended period of what has been a divided and unsettled society - from Brexit to Trump, 24-hour news to human rights issues - we are now eager to find the joy in things, enjoy silliness and reach for optimism.â&#x20AC;? Above right: A design from the new Artisan Days collection that visually says so much about that yearning to be together. Left: A new design from the Quirks and Smirks collection which celebrates the whimsical.

PROGRESSIVE GREETINGS WORLDWIDE

Style is permanent. Tough times are not. Wishing all our customers and friends a happy and safe new year, and looking forward to supporting you in 2021 and beyond.

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Grow Old Gracefully Poet and Painter has added another slew of cheeky new designs to its Motley range. Among these, smiling in the poker face of Botox, the new ‘Ageing Well’ card is another look at what we should be celebrating in our middle youth, and beyond. All cards are 150mm x 150mm, printed on FSC-accredited card and are available either cello wrapped, with ecoklasp or naked. Poet and Painter 07779 064894 www.poetandpainter.co.uk

Thanks and Praise Festive Feels

Applaud, is a new collection of 12 cards from Dandelion Stationery showing thanks and appreciation to those special people in our lives. Each card is printed onto luxury FSC certified board and is finished with gold foil. The cards are 140mm x 140mm and come supplied with rustic kraft envelopes made from recycled paper. They can be supplied plastic free or cello wrapped. Dandelion Stationery 01332 504940 www.dandelionstationery.co.uk

This Snowy Church advent calendar card is just one of the new festive designs to have launched as part of the Wrendale Christmas collection, beautifully illustrated by awardwinning artist Hannah Dale. This gorgeous scene is inspired by the village where Hannah grew up. Printed on sustainably sourced textured board, the A5 card has 24 opening windows to enjoy on the run up to Christmas, revealing festive designs behind them. Each card is finished with silver foiled numbers and comes with a recycled kraft envelope. Wrendale Designs 01652 680253 www.wrendaledesigns.co.uk

Bloomin’ Lovely In Your Own Words Blank cards have had a resurgence in popularity in recent times. With Artisan Days Pigment has endeavoured to create a collection of a dozen designs with lots of depth and detail, lots of beauty and a nod towards life’s new routines. Featuring many of its favourite artists, the collection covers bakery, relaxation and lots of outdoor celebration, including a craft beer van. Pigment Productions 01423 520098 www.pigmentproductions.com

Two for Joy Ilustration’s new Everbloom Collection is inspired by blooms of dried flowers, decorative foliage, stems and leaves, all drawn in a palette bursting with pinks, plums and mustard tones, with a little splash of blue and white to keep it fresh and ready for Spring. The range covers of 33 designs, everyday, occasions and some Spring Seasons sends. The cards come with a luxury grey envelope, wrapped in biodegradable cello or naked and nested. Two for Joy Illustration 07710707592 www.twoforjoyillustration.com

Be My Valentine Purple Tree has added new designs to its love/Valentine's Day focused range - You & Me, bringing the total to 16 cards in the collection. All cards are 150mm x 150mm and come with a recycled kraft envelope and are printed in the UK on 300gsm Arcoprint card for a warm, matt finish. Purple Tree Designs 07803 591927 purpletreedesigns.co.uk PROGRESSIVE GREETINGS WORLDWIDE 39

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Super Duper Stripes Stripes Ahoy is a brand new range from handmade greeting card company Apple & Clover. All the cards feature a hand-embellished, striped, ribbon bow and are complemented by a striped, kraft envelope. An adorable array of animals feature across a full spread of everyday, relations, special occasions and age designs. Cards are 155mm x 155mm and come individually wrapped to protect the embellishment. Apple & Clover 07790 900976 www.appleandclover.com

Messages For All A Splash of Colour Neon rainbows, inky bold brush strokes and good vibes make up the Butterscotch collection from Hotchpotch Design. Printed with the brand’s signature pink ink, finished with gold foil, and creating a striking and vibrant look, this range ticks the boxes of current trends. Hotchpotch Design 01243 792600 www.hotchpotchlondon.com

Positively Precious Amelia is Cinnamon Aitch’s brand new range. Designed by the talented Emily Hauck, this gorgeous, hand-finished new collection features sensitively illustrated female-orientated designs that are punctuated with positivity. The designs celebrate the great outdoors alongside the welcoming in of warmer days. Each C6 design is hand-finished with sparkly gems and wooden beads, printed on FSC board and supplied with an FSC envelope. Cinnamon Aitch 0121 773 6833 www.cinnamonaitch.co.uk

Looking Wick-ed Crumble & Core has launched a Candle with a Twist collection. The new range, spanning some 86 designs, encompass a boxed scented candle (either a votive or a 20cl candle) with a greeting card (5cm square with the votive, 7.5cm square with the larger candle), covering all manner of occasions. All made in the UK, the candles (in fragrances Pink Pepper, Orange Blossom & Jasmine, Seaweed, Lemon & Bergamot, White Chocolate and Honey Milk, Neroli, Rosemary & Lavender, Wild Fig, and Cinnamon & Sandalwood) and greeting cards both feature delightful matching watercolour designs by Jilly Mercer. The box can either be kraft or white gloss. Crumble & Core 01825 841412 www.crumbleandcore.com

Max Made Me Do It, is a new collaboration for Cath Tate Cards with interior design goddess Carol Maxwell. The range of 12 cards features deliciously delicate gold foiling, floral motifs and sophisticated colour combos. The designs cover all manner of playful sends, from ‘Papa Bear’ to ‘Birthday Babe’. Cath Tate Cards 0208 671 2166 www.cathtatecards.com

Take Your ‘Kew’ Lagom Design has released a new raft of exquisite greeting cards and giftwrappings into its Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew range. Inspired by treasures from Kew’s Archive of Botanical Art, as well regular sized cards, the new collection also includes large cards, mini cards, postcards and age-specific designs. The designs remain true to the spirit of the original botanic artists but with a contemporary twist with bright colours and metallic foils. The envelopes come in a mixture of plain white and printed florals depending on the design chosen. Lagom Design 0333 123 0101 www.lagomdesign.co.uk PROGRESSIVE GREETINGS WORLDWIDE 41

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Yule love

Going Really Wild Sweet Design’s Wild-Time Age range encompasses designs covering all milestone ages from 13 to 100, featuring original painted exotic animal prints by Sally Anson. Printed on 300gsm FSC board, each card is 15cm square and comes with a 100% recycled kraft envelopes, wrapped or unwrapped. Sweet Design 07880 732626 www.sweetdesign.co.uk

Abacus’ fabulous new 2021 Christmas collection is full of festive cheer. On the pack front Marie Curie and British Heart Foundation will benefit from their sale. Packed in biodegradable cello bags, each pack contains eight cards (137mm square). Abacus’ range of Christmas bumper boxes features eight different options, all 160mm square. Each box contains 27 cards of three designs. Meanwhile the festive luxury range comprises six dazzling illustrated options (ten cards of one design), all of which feature intricate hot foil and emboss details. Added to all this is a wondrous selection of single Christmas cards. Abacus Cards 01638 569050 www.abacuscards.co.uk

Charitable growth Greeting card brand Umbellifer has teamed up with the horticultural charity Perennial on a range of Christmas designs. The 12 beautiful bird and plant designs feature the work of artist Stephen Lennon who set up the botanical cards and prints business. All the cards are blank inside and sold individually or in packs of six cards of the same design. All the cards and envelopes are 100% recyclable and compostable. Umbellifer 07510 874363 www.umbellifer.co.uk

Leaf It Be Passion4Plants is Rocket 68’s latest collection of luscious, vibrantly-illustrated greeting cards and prints which rejoice in our reinvigorated love of houseplants. The range includes age card designs with beautiful gold foil detailing. Each houseplant illustration (by Rocket68’s founder and illustrator Jill White) has been hand-painted using gouache with the painted plant leaves offset by zesty, contemporary coloured backgrounds. The cards are blank inside and supplied with a rich gold envelope. Rocket68 07903 603229 www.rocket68.com

A Funny Thing Rosie Made A Thing is launching a brand new range of funnies from the brilliant author/illustrator, Tom McLaughlin. The collection of 12 everyday designs combines Tom’s handwritten font with his unique and relatable illustrations. These colourful cards are printed in the UK on a highquality FSC board and come with a gun powder grey envelope. Rosie Made A Thing 0116 4062000 www.rosiemadeathing.co.uk

Incredibly Cute Pink Pig has recently added a wealth of new Spring designs to its Cutie Crew collection. All cards are 150mm square and printed on high quality 350gm FSC accredited board. They’re supplied with coordinating envelopes and available cello wrapped or naked. Pink Pig 0779 5574548 www.pinkpigcards.co.uk PROGRESSIVE GREETINGS WORLDWIDE 43

Wishing you a Happy New Year and good times in the year ahead

(E) SALES@REALANDEXCITINGDESIGNS.CO.UK

(T) 01223 207 080

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A Day in The Life of Harold

Bean Around Lucilla Lavender’s eye-catching new range, Human Bean is full of character and fun. With a bold font and bright colours, every card features a cheeky little bean pun to accompany the image, and each is finished with spotvarnishing and embossing. As well as 12 birthday designs, the concept has been extended to cover occasions, relations and seasonal events. Lucilla Lavender 0203 405 1410 www.lucillalavender.com

Straight Talking! New lines have been added to Jolly Awesome’s humour range - LINES. Designed by Matt Nguyen, this fun range spans over 40 designs, covering love, everyday and major life events. The cards are A6 in format, come with a neon orange envelope and can be individually packed with eco labels or cellowrapped. Jolly Awesome 07904383876 www.jollyawesome.com

A Sneak Peak Sneakers is a brand new range from greeting card publisher Doodleshoe Paper Goods. The collection features illustrations of sneakers by footwear designer Jane Barrett in her clean, graphic style. Printed on 350gsm FSC approved board, the cards are supplied with recycled craft envelopes and individually wrapped in biodegradable cello. Doodleshoe Paper Goods 07802429064 www.doodleshoe.com

Clare Maddicott’s latest compilation of eclectic Harold’s Planet designs chronicle Harold’s life and his antics, affectionately portrayed in an array of funny upbeat scenarios documenting current affairs including Covid-19, saving the planet, as well as friendship, alcohol and ageing. Covering occasions, birthday and general designs, these bold colourful cards, measure 125mm x 170mm and have been left blank inside for the senders’ own message. Clare Maddicott Publications 01638 569050 www.maddicott.com

Maternal Instincts

Christmas Love and Hugs

With Mother’s Day in mind, Lesser and Pavey has created a fragranced lamp specially for ‘Mum’. The wording that lights up ‘Forever my Mum Forever My Friend’ is the first in a new range of sentiment aroma lamps that will include messages for the family, friends, love and the home. As well as scenting the home, these fragrance lamps also purify the air and sanitise surfaces removing bacteria and other airborne micro-organisms. Lesser & Pavey 01322 279225 www.leonardo.co.uk

Woolly Wishes is a new collection from Mister Peebles - a cosy set of wintry woodland animals, wrapped up warm in their biggest scarves. Perfect for sending warm Christmas wishes, the collection includes a squirrel, an owl, a badger and a mouse. All printed from original watercolour illustrations, on matt 300gsm card, the cards come with a recycled manilla envelope, packed in a biodegradable sleeve or naked. Available as both singles and mixed packs. Mister Peebles 07736 857 493 www.misterpeebles.co.uk PROGRESSIVE GREETINGS WORLDWIDE 45

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Memorable Moments Pot Of Gold is not just Paper Salad’s new range, it debuts a brand new finish from the publisher, liquid foil! There are 12 relations and occasions designs in the range, which include good luck, new home as well as new grandson and granddaughter. Each 155mm square card comes with a coloured bespoke patterned envelope and can be supplied either cellowrapped or naked. Paper Salad 0161 427 0001 www.papersalad.co.uk

Sunshine and Smiles Brand And Deliver

Kapelki Art delivers more cheerful designs to its collections. The new additions, featuring Yuri Vasnetsov's artwork, are full of Spring and Summer positive vibes and colours. In addition, company founder, Galina Pagliaro has introduced some of her own vibrant art to its Friends from Tales collection. Kapelki Art +447761778144 www.kapelkiart.com

Ohh Deer has signed a raft of new licences Cath Kidston, Pusheen, American painter/TV host Bob Ross and cartoonist Chris (Simpsons Artist). The Cath Kidston collection is launching with everyday cards, but stationery, diaries and giftwrappings will follow. Ohh Deer 01509 812075 www.ohhdeer.com

A Floral Flourish Child’s Play Nyha Cards has a new collection of multicultural children's age cards for boys and girls, covering ages one to eight years. Uplifting, aspirational and fun illustrations feature astronauts eating cake in space with aliens, balloon rides with zebras and unicorn rides full of stardust. Nyha Cards 07983991677 www.nyhacards.co.uk

Lottie Murphy's new everyday range, Stems is a ‘bouquet’ of 14 floral designs. Featuring beautiful flowers, foliage and insects, they cover birthdays, thank yous, good luck, sympathy and weddings. Distinguished by their unique hand-illustrated style, each card is printed in England on FSC-certified board, comes with a brown kraft envelope and optional card clasp. Lottie Murphy 0771 6304741 www.lottie-murphy.com

Time For A Laugh The thirst for humour cards can be quenched by Paperlink as it has just launched a whole array of new funnies. Among these is Funny Farm, contemporary humour that taps into classic deliveries with a more modern feel. Meanwhile, Happy Hour is a great collection of sassy and savvy female humorous designs. Paperlink 020 7582 8244 www.paperlink.co.uk PROGRESSIVE GREETINGS WORLDWIDE 47

Introducing from

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Fond Memories Rumble Cards’ new Artist Series sees the publisher’s founder/creator Jess Rumble collaborate with outside artists. Among these is a series with Ashley Le Quere which look back and celebrate the nostalgic times of the 60s, 70s, 80s & 90s. Rumble Cards www.rumblecards.co.uk

The Travel Bug A Male Perspective Laura Darrington’s new graphic and colourful Campus Collection focuses on masculine birthday and male relation captions. The 20 designs are inspired by classic patterns, such as stripes and geo shapes, but with added texture (spot UV and embossing) and a contemporary palette. Laura Darrington Design 0116 2849660 www.lauradarrington.com

Remember travel? The latest Dream Destinations range from Clanna Cards/Visoni takes you to Rome, Portofino, Venice, Monaco and Sorrento. These are among the new additions to the Visoni range of cards based on vintage travel archives, including those from P&O Cruises and British Airways. Clanna Cards & Visoni 01242 575574 www.clannacards.co.uk

Mother Dear

Spring Has Sprung

Apple Blossom is a new collection from Megan Claire for Mother’s Day, forming part of the publisher’s spring seasons 2021 portfolio. The unique phrase on each card is hot foiled by hand on luxury cream or blush pink board. Each card is 125mm x 125mm and comes with a contemporary grey envelope. Megan Claire 01536 560345 www.meganclaire.co.uk

The Eco-friendly Card Co has launched a beautiful selection of Spring photographic cards. Featuring views and close-ups of spring flowers, the range includes both blank and occasion designs. Notecard wallets are also available. Printed on 100% recycled 300gsm board, the 153mm square cards come with 100% recycled brown envelopes and are available packed in compostable bags or naked. The Eco-friendly Card Co 01626 369269 www.ecofriendly.cards

Fabulously Female Celebrating diversity, female empowerment and positivity, Fierce & Fabulous is one of many new ranges from The Art File. The 16 designs take influences from the current trend of bohemian and minimal aesthetics, combined with inspirations from colour blocking and modern art. All are finished with debossed lines and hot foils. The Art File 0115 850 7490 www.theartfile.com PROGRESSIVE GREETINGS WORLDWIDE 49

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A Taste For Travel

All Of A Flutter

Let Toasted Crumpet take you to the tropics, the jungle, on safari and into the deep blue sea with its Around the World new card range. The inaugural collection includes 20 square (150mm) card designs featuring some favourite animals from across the globe with a classic botanical twist backdrop. Each card is printed on a luxury textured FSC-accredited and 100% recyclable card stock. Blank inside, all cards comes with a kraft envelope and are available either cello wrapped or naked with an eco-clasp. Toasted Crumpet 01372 635359 www.toastedcrumpet.co.uk

Lockdown Love

Penguin Ink has extended its successful Wild card letterpress printed range. Among the latest additions is the Monarch Butterfly design (pictured), the detail, texture and colours on the wings really stand out - a lovely pop of colour. The 150mm cards are printed on recycled board and come with a recycled kraft envelope, available naked with a kard klasp. Penguin Ink 07525 497122 www.penguinink.co.uk

Inspired by lockdowns’ distant Zoom calls to loved ones, the new Marzipan Rainbow range from Paper Rose is full of rainbows and love. The 12 heartfelt designs in the collection, created by Bev Edge, encapsulate the community spirit we have all felt over the past months. Each card comes with a bright and cheerful yellow envelope. Paper Rose 0115 9860115 www.paperrose.co.uk

Strength From Words All That Glitters English Graphics new range is full of (eco) sparkle, releasing a host of new designs that have been drawn, illustrated and hand-finished by ‘the glitter girls’, the publisher’s team of glitterers. The new collections span animals and fashion. Printed on recyclable card with biodegradable glitter, they are supplied in compostable and biodegradable cellobags. English Graphics 01590 672778 www.englishgraphics.co.uk

Born out of the crazy world we all now live in is Say What?, one of the many new collections from Raspberry Blossom. Bold bright colours and uplifting sentiments combine in this collection, which exudes positivity and creates everyday moments of joy. There are 10 designs in the collection, each featuring a handwritten font, and all printed on a luxury 320gsm board, finished with a luxe emboss and spotUV to highlight the bold patterns. Raspberry Blossom 01553 636194 www.raspberryblossom.com

Brighter Skies In need of some positive vibes, Stormy Knight’s Happy Stuff range is the perfect antidote to drizzly grey winter skies. With 20 bright, cheery and uplifting designs, the collection covers a range of occasions from birthdays to Spring seasons, as well as plenty of support and 'just because' cards. Printed on FSC-certified board, the cards are finished with an emboss and spot UV for that extra colour pop! Each comes paired with a 100% recycled fleck craft envelope, available naked, with Kard Klasp or in a cello bags. Stormy Knight 0117 9098684 www.stormyknight.co.uk PROGRESSIVE GREETINGS WORLDWIDE 51

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Face To Face

Tate

That

“When I think back to 40 years ago, what I really wanted to do when I started was to change the world and I thought cards were as good a place to start as any,” said Cath Tate, founder of Cath Tate Cards in her inspiring acceptance speech, having been presented with The Henries 2020 Honorary Achievement award last month. PG takes a trip back through the decades with Cath while her daughter/codirector Rosie shares current plans that demonstrate that ‘world changing’ is still high up on the company’s agenda. “I was absolutely as green as grass,” admits Cath Tate, thinking back to the origins of what has gone on to become one of the bastions of greeting card publishing brands. “I knew nothing about the card business, nothing about business and to be quite honest I’ve spent the last 40 years learning by the seat of my pants! But it just goes to show that if you do have something that you feel is important, you just have to sit down at the kitchen table and just get on with it. You will make mistakes, sometimes terrible mistakes, but without those mistakes you’ll never get anywhere,” said Cath, sharing her experiences and business philosophy at the recent virtual Henries awards event. It was back in the early 1980s, at a photomontage night school class that the teacher, impressed with a design Cath had created, that featured Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher pinching someone’s purse from their handbag, 52

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remarked that would make a decent greeting card. That was it, the ‘card seed’ was firmly planted which saw Cath’s kitchen table become the hub of Cath Tate Cards. “There I was cutting up old photographs and pasting them down, trying to work out what would make a good card or not,” recalls Cath.

Above: Cath Tate with her Henries’ Honorary Achievement trophy. Middle left: The image that started it all - a photomontage Cath created at a night school class. Left: A design from the Loose Knits range based on retro knitting patterns. Below left: Cath and Rosie Tate at The Retas in 2019.

Back then, as well as creating the ranges (some her own designs, others the work of under-represented women cartoonists) Cath also undertook the selling. In the early days the designs she published (many championing social issues) as postcards and posters were best suited to the alternative bookshops, though as time went on and the portfolio expanded, the retail base grew in tandem, anchored by independent retailers with some selected multiples coming on board along the way. With a willingness to take creative risks, Cath Tate Cards has, over the last four decades, trailblazed countless greeting card concepts - from Loose Knits (based on retro knitting patterns) to Photocaptions (an early pioneer of combining vintage photographs with witty quips) - that has seen the publisher earn its stripes and expand its customer base in many corners of the globe.

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Face To Face

“I do feel very fortunate that in greeting cards I found a medium in which I could and can express myself,” said Cath. What’s more, that shared DNA with her daughter Rosie has meant that Cath has, in recent years, been able to hand over the day to day running of the business while remaining very much involved in the creative side of the company. ‘However hard you try, you end up like your mother’ is a ‘classic’ Cath Tate Card design from her Photocaptions range that has ever more poignancy for Cath and Rosie. Rosie was only a baby who crawled around on the kitchen floor when Cath created the early designs on the kitchen table. Fast forward to 2011 and Rosie, who had been working for seven years as a television producer on some hard-hitting documentaries (covering domestic violence, missing people, police programmes),

Left: Cath Tate Cards was one of the pioneers of combining vintage photos with contemporary funny lines. Cath collected Edwardian photos and could not help but see the humour potential. Below right: A Design by Dandy Doodlez, a disabled digital cartoonist has joined Cath Tate Cartoons portfolio. Below left: Cath and Rosie in 1981. Bottom: One of the publisher’s latest collaborations is with interiors brand, Max Made Me Do It.

suggested a six month trial of working for the company to her mum. “I really wanted to see if I could produce some cards that would bring something extra to the company and would also sell. Mum and I agreed that if at the end of six months it hadn’t worked then I would go and do something else - that was ten years ago!” said Rosie, whose very first range, Life is Rosie is still going strong and there have been lots more besides. So, what are the upsides and downsides of a mother and daughter working relationship? “There are quite a lot of family businesses in the card trade who probably share my view that the main advantages are the total trust and close communication you share. One disadvantage is there is a lot less formality you have to check yourself if you start to bicker in the office!” admits Rosie. Looking at their business relationship, Rosie feels it works well between them as “Mum has an easy-going temperament but is also very determined.”

Proud Moments Put on the spot, Cath shares a trio of her proud moments in the Cath Tate Cards’ history... l “While we remain ever grateful to the ongoing support from our independent retail customers, without whom we would be here now, I remember seeing our cards on sale in John Lewis for the first time and asking myself “Oh, does this mean we’ve become a proper company now?” I am not sure what ‘proper company’ means though!” l “Seeing our Photocaptions designs appear on a range of seven gift books. It felt good to be extending the legacy - and they are still selling.” l “The publication of The Inking Woman, a book I co-edited that celebrates 250 years of women cartoonists. Having been producing their work since the 80s, it felt was very much like a lifetime achievement to publish a book championing their talents.” l “Winning The Henries’ 2020 Honorary Achievement award. I was completely bowled over. It gave me the chance to say thank you to the artists I have worked with, our customers, our agents, our team and the greeting card business as a whole for being so supportive of each other. We all want this industry to thrive!”

Checking in with Cath, there are some obvious family traits! “Rosie is quite determined, which you need to be in this game. I also recognised, when you have been running a company for as long as I have, you have always done things ‘your way’. I was very happy Rosie wanted to take over the day to day running of the company so, I had to just let her get on with it and do things her way, learn her own lessons, just like I did,” says Cath. Rosie has and is enjoying the learning process, especially having such as strong and savvy teacher close to hand if need be. “One of the main lessons Mum has taught me is to have the courage to try new card ideas. Her feeling is that if you are too cautious you don’t end up producing anything really good, which I have come to totally agree with,” said Rosie. From Life is Rosie to collaborations with other designers, including contemporary illustrators, such as Veronica Dearly, Wotmalike’s Jo Burrows as well as tie-ups with horticulturist Charlotte Day and interior design goddess, Carol Maxwell of Max Made Me Do It, Rosie has and is putting her own flavour into Cath Tate Cards while remaining true to its roots. This is exemplified by a capsule collection of designs by cartoonist Dandy Doodlez that made their debut in the Cath Tate Cartoons range. Being disabled and chronically ill, Dandy’s wry and pithy cartoons have authenticity and acerbic wit. “Disability is not something that ever features on greeting cards, but it should. Working with Dandy means we have been able to give disabled people a voice on the card racks - and they are funny too!” said Rosie, who is more than equipped to carry the baton from her mum to change the world, one greeting card at a time.

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Industry Issue

So, Brexit has happened… a few diversions along the way admittedly, but an agreement was at least reached in the near final hour, and with no tariffs imposed on greeting cards in and out of the EU. While the full picture is yet to materialise, with procedural challenges yet to be sorted, PG asked a selection of publishers and distributors how they feel about the agreement and what impact they feel it will have on the greeting card sector. Who would have thought that ‘Brexit’ would be seen as ‘good news’, but amid the ongoing Covid situation and its ramifications on lives and businesses, the confirmation that greeting cards are not subject to additional tariffs as a result of the agreement reached with the EU on December 24 came as huge relief to UK greeting card publishers and their overseas distributors. Admittedly extra costs are and will be incurred by parties on both sides of the Channel as a result of the extra paperwork and procedures incurred, but as David Byk, ceo of Swan Mill Paper Company (which includes Ling Design, GBCC and Penny Kennedy) summed up “the fact that a Brexit deal has been struck is the most important thing. Business hates uncertainty and there’s already enough of that to go round with the Covid situation.” Sending his ‘entente cordiale’, Laurent Reiz, co-owner of Zazous Editions, distributor for a large number of leading UK publishers in France, said: “For me the UK card industry still has a beautiful future in France, as ever... Don't worry dear friends. Please accept a huge forbidden hug from me.” With the UK greeting card industry having long been a successful British 54

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export, a few weeks ago the GCA’s ceo Amanda Fergusson headed to a meeting held by the Government’s Department of Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy about the UK’s PostTransition, the latest in a series of meetings she has attended on the Brexit situation. The GCA’s comprehensive Brexit Blog (www.gca.cards/brexitupdates-dec-2020/) contains a lot of useful

Above: The finer details and costs of Brexit to the UK greeting card industry are still being worked out. Below: A topical design from Emotional Rescue’s Virtual Safari range.

information, such as the codes publishers need to use for their exports to the EU, and this will continue to be updated. As PG went to press the GCA was preparing for a dedicated ‘Dealing with Brexit’ themed webinar with participation from Government officials, publishers with export experience as well as those involved on the logistics side. The hourlong discussion (which is due to take place on January 26) is to be recorded and then hosted in the GCA’s members’ area of the website. As Amanda told PG: “While it is good news that we are leaving the EU with the deal it is frustrating that it had to go to the wire, leaving businesses worried and unable to prepare in advance. Having the right information, advice and procedures in place will be crucial to sustaining the UK greeting card sector’s important export trade.”

Jeremy Corner, managing director of Blue Eyed Sun: “I feel relieved from a business point of view about the agreement, but disappointed as a UK citizen. The agreement is good for the trade of goods for us, especially as we sell to several countries in the EU and import some goods from Germany. While it is frustrating and costly to have more paperwork at the borders, at least both our customers and ourselves will not have to pay duties as goods enter and leave the UK. It’s hard to say what the impact will be on greeting cards. In terms of distribution, I don’t see it having any huge impact on shipping costs for large volumes. It may hamper profitability on smaller shipments to countries like Ireland. Plus, we don’t know how currencies will level out this year as they are still being disrupted by Covid-related news. Closing the deal to such a late stage caused a lot of logistical headaches in December and freight prices did rise significantly. The new VAT scheme will take a little getting used to, but it sounds good for cashflow. Longer term, new norms will be established and those with good distribution partnerships and product that sells will continue to do well.” Right: Jeremy Corner, md of Blue Eyed Sun, which received a Queen’s award for International Trade in 2016 in recognition of its export growth.

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Industry Issue

David Byk (left), ceo of Swan Mill Paper Company (which includes Ling Design, GBCC and Penny Kennedy): “For me, the fact that a Brexit deal has been struck is the most important thing. Business hates uncertainty and there’s already enough of that to go round with the Covid situation. Personally, I always thought an agreement would happen as all parties knew how important it was, but it did get pretty scary as it was so late. We have large amounts of business in Europe and had seen our customers getting more and more concerned about the uncertainty, although sometimes it’s hard to split that out from Covid and economy-related issues. We had successfully dispatched Spring 2021 to them in December to de-risk delays and surcharges for our customers which was good and appreciated. Personally, I’ve always been against Brexit, and even with the deal we will see increased complexity. Even into Ireland we will have greater costs due to the added paperwork and we are weighing up whether to bring the expertise in-house or outsource it. I think this will result in customers reducing the number of suppliers and transactions due to the costs and complexity which we believe will be good for both GBCC and Ling because of the breadth of our portfolio and size of the ranges we have, so can offer a one stop shop to our European customers.”

Stefan Hermann, managing director of Taurus Kunstkarten, which distributes Belly Button Designs, Louise Mulgrew and Laura Darrington in Germany: “My first thought was relief that at least the agreement has been finalised so we have a bit more clarity about the situation now. The second was that a good old friend is gone, to be honest. The whole import procedure now requires more work and therefore an increase in costs. Our complete Spring collections arrived in ‘the old year’ meaning we have enough stock for the coming weeks.”

Above: Stefan Hermann on the Taurus Kunstkarten stand at the 2020 Paperworld in Frankfurt.

Neil Matthews, sales manager of Artebene UK: “In the end some form of agreement with the EU is better than no agreement at all, obviously we await to see what the fine detail is, and what the implications are at border control with delays, additional administration, and costs. Spring Fair, from my point of view, will lose its European relevance as a leading exhibition for our industry. Maison & Objet as well as the Frankfurt fair will try to benefit from this change. We will have to expect less visitors from the EU to trade fairs, thus giving us more time to serve our UK customers, but in this context, we also assume that the diversity to choose from multiple European, or even global brands, will be reduced. I do believe this is a negative for retailers and consumers in the UK, but maybe a plus for the remaining British companies at the same time. Buying from EU-based brands will be much more difficult for British retailers and the same applies to EU-retailers that loved to buy from British suppliers. For Artebene UK we will continue to supply and support our UK customers with the same high level of service we have always provided.”

Ulla Klopf, co-owner of Pabuku: “At the moment it's hard for us (as continental Europeans) to measure the full impact of Brexit on us as a business due to all the Covid uncertainties, closed shops, no trade fairs. At the moment we can't even send parcels via postal services to the UK from Austria as parcels are denied. Services like DHL are too expensive if you are not a big player with a high quantity of parcels. That said at least we are glad exporting to the UK will stay tax-free after Brexit. In the meantime, we are continuing our partnership with our UK distributor, Northlight Designs - and everything else will hopefully improve soon. Due to Covid we have all had to change our ways on the distribution front anyway, improving social media, adopting alternatives to direct meetings at trade fairs, making improvements to our website and webshop, developing new products alongside greeting cards and so on. It's more about short-term planning and celebrating step-by-step successes!” Top: Ulla Klopf (right) and Ute Baurecker co-owners of Pabuku.

Laurent Reiz, co-owner of Zazous Editions which distributes The Art File, Belly Button Designs, Caroline Gardner, Eloise Hall, Forever Cards, Gaya Cards, Hannah Marchant, Laura Stoddart, Meg Hawkins, Redback Cards, Ruth Jackson, Sabivo Designs and Stripey Cats in France: “My view about Brexit is very simple - the economic British point of view has won because everybody in Europe is sharing it. Probably nothing much will change. If we at Zazous reduce our orders it's only for Covid reasons, not Brexit.” Right: Zazous’ Laurent Reiz (left) and Emilie Schickel with Ged Mace, md of The Art File at an event in 2017 when the publisher had just been awarded a Queen’s Award for International Trade.

Above: Some of Artebene’s latest products. PROGRESSIVE GREETINGS WORLDWIDE

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Environmental Push

A Zest

For The

Planet

Left: One of the card designs from Otter House’s What On Earth range, that raises money for the Marine Conservation Society. Below middle: Developing a plastic-free alternative for its box calendars was one of the early improvements made by Carousel on the environmental front. Below: A detailed leaflet produced for its whole team detailing the group’s environmental improvements. Bottom: A snapshot from a recent Zest meeting. (Top left to bottom right) Steve Plackett (md of Carousel Calendars), Jakki Brown (PG); Michelle JenningsMartin (head of product of Otter House), David Pike (group md), Rod Dand (buyer of Calendar Club) and Andy Ellis (group facilities manager).

Steve Plackett, md of Carousel Calendars clearly remembers the day, a few years ago, when David Pike, Zebra’s group md (which includes Carousel, Otter House and Calendar Club) came into his office and asked: “How do we, as a group, become carbon neutral?” This question prompted the setting up of Zest, a steering committee with a far-reaching commitment to improving not just the group’s environmental credentials, but a campaign involving its suppliers, peers and whole industries. PG Zoomed in to join the latest Zest meeting to find out the latest on the group’s green scene. While best known for its stronghold in the calendar world, which spans both manufacturing and distribution through Carousel Calendars and the Great Big Calendar Collection as well as retailing through Calendar Club UK, that is far from the full picture of the group, which also includes its portfolio of stationery, jigsaws, homewares, gifts and greeting cards through Otter House. Moreover, its reputation on the licensing front, working with all manner of leading brands to well-known artists, as well as collaborations with numerous charities, further widens its sphere of influence. Relative to its size and breadth, the Zebra group has never really been a ‘noisy’ business, but now, the Exeter-based company feels compelled to speak up for the planet, share the changes it has made on the environmental front, seek solutions from other businesses and encourage other companies to join in its quest. “We have started our journey and have made progress in the ways we do things and the products we produce but have set ourselves some tough targets. Though we still have some way to go to achieving these, improving the health of the planet is all of 56

PROGRESSIVE GREETINGS WORLDWIDE

our responsibilities, while of course continuing to run a commercial business,” said Steve Plackett, md of Carousel Calendars and chair of Zest, an acronym for Zebra Environmental Steering Team. Steve is joined on the regular Zest meetings by Michelle Jennings-Martin (who

heads up the Otter House product team); Rob Dand (buyer for Calendar Club), Andy Ellis (facilities manager) and David Pike (group md). While many companies have taken the decision to offset their carbon emissions by purely paying their dues to carbon offset companies, this was not the approach Zebra wanted to take. “We felt the best way for us to become carbon neutral was by first making as many changes to the way we do things, from the energy we use in our premises, to the plastic reduction in our products as well as by encouraging our suppliers, both on the manufacturing side as well as the companies we deal with through Calendar Club, to come on board too,” said Steve. Less than two years into the formation of Zest and progress has certainly been made. On the operational front, facilities manager Andy Ellis confirms that the group has driven the energy reduction measures, including a shift to LED lighting, more electric/hybrid cars, as well as a zero carbon electricity contract from July this year. The pages of the recently published Otter House catalogue are a tribute to the extent of the changes on the card, stationery and gift side.

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Environmental Push

The product lowdown While still a work in progress, the group’s product catalogue is peppered with ‘flashes’ proclaiming the products’ eco credentials. l Over 250 of the group’s 2022 calendars and diaries are now free of plastic packaging and this number will continue to grow. l Foil and glitter have been removed from the group’s card and stationery ranges. l All the group’s new greeting card ranges are free from plastic packaging and are supplied naked all reprints will be supplied plastic-free. l All non-recyclable materials have been removed from the group’s stationery ranges. l All plastic inserts have been removed from Otter House’s Chocolatte mug collection. l All Otter House’s new jigsaw puzzles are now plastic-free and the box size has been reduced to reduce board consumption.

As Michelle Jennings-Martin, head of product development explained: “Having looked at how we could improve, we realised there was some low hanging fruit. One of these was on our jigsaws, where we replaced the internal cellowrapped bag holding the jigsaw pieces with one made of paper and also reduced the size of the boxes so as to save board.” The same has been the case with other ranges. “It is about being smart and challenging yourself for better ways of doing things,” says Michelle, citing the eradication of using throwaway plastic pieces on its boxed mug range as well as the widespread adoption of supplying all its new greeting cards plastic-free. While efforts to reduce plastics on the calendar front was already underway before Zest began, traction is really starting to be gauged now. “One of the first areas we tackled was on our boxed calendars, recognising they used a lot of plastic in the stands alone,” said Steve. “While it cost us a lot financially in developing a cardboard solution, we felt it

would be worth it and would be something we could share with other calendar companies, both in the UK and the US,” he added. Other more eco-solutions followed last year, ditching the plastic/shrinkwrapping on a whole series of Carousel’s calendars across several formats, with 250 plastic free products offered in its 2022 dated collection. By next year the plan is for half of all of Carousel’s calendars to be plastic free, with product trials currently underway on cellulose-based lamination and for the plastic-coated wire to be replaced with a plastic-free metal option. Rather than keep the good ‘green news’ to itself, the group has been keen to encourage others to share their best practices so that everyone can learn from each other. As Rob Dand, buyer of Calendar Club (which usually operates from 300 retail sites in the UK, selling many companies’ calendars to the public) highlighted: “It has been great to work with other calendar companies and encourage them to develop and trial new ideas that are kinder to

Above: There are now 250 plastic-free dated products in the latest Carousel Calendars portfolio. Left: A plastic-free stationery product from Otter House. Far left: Among the changes to Otter House’s jigsaws is that all the jigsaw pieces inside the box now come in a paper bag rather than a plastic one and the box size has been reduced. Below: All new greeting cards from the group are supplied plastic-free.

the environment. Danilo, for example, having appropriately launched its Blue Planet calendar plastic-free has led the way on easel calendars, developing a plastic-free solution for the integral stand. By everyone working together we achieve so much more.” Having asked that first question of Steve, which has seen the whole group completely realign how it is run and the products it creates, is David Pike still as full of ‘zest’ about it all? “Absolutely. I feel proud that we have been a catalyst for change, but we are working with the tide of consumer opinion. While it has cost us financially as an organisation to make the changes, I would like to think that as we scale things up on this front it will become cost neutral as well as carbon neutral, but in the meantime, we are not costing the planet!”

Adding extra Scope Having initially concentrated on its own direct and indirect emissions (Scope 1 and 2, see below), Zest is now looking to progress on Scope 3, by encouraging the factories and suppliers it works with overseas to get more involved. “You could dismiss it as saying ‘that’s their emissions’, but we are all sharing the same world and need to do all we can to safeguard it,” said Steve. Scope 1 - All Direct Emissions from the activities of an organisation or under their control. Including fuel combustion on site such as gas boilers, fleet vehicles and airconditioning leaks. Scope 2 - Indirect Emissions from electricity purchased and used by the organisation. Emissions are created during the production of the energy and eventually used by the organisation. Scope 3 - All Other Indirect Emissions from activities of the organisation, occurring from sources that they do not own or control. These are usually the greatest share of the carbon footprint, covering emissions associated with business travel, procurement, waste and water. PROGRESSIVE GREETINGS WORLDWIDE

ART SOURCE

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21/01/2021 12:09

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Art Source

Driving

Aesthetic

Tastes

From pent-up new hedonistic ‘roaring 20s’ to a yearn for travel, urban gardening, diversity and homespun crafts are just some of the trends highlighted by the leading artists agencies and picture libraries that are likely to be reflected in greeting cards over the coming year. PG was all eyes and ears as to what these experienced aesthetic bellwethers cite as the cultural drivers of our creative tastes.

Luci Gosling (below), head of sales and research for Mary Evans Picture Library: Drivers: “The global pandemic has dominated all our lives for almost a year now and it is impossible not to cite this as a major catalyst in driving new ways to communicate and keep in touch. We saw some greeting card clients launching designs as early as spring last year that were a light-hearted take on lockdown, but as the crisis has become more entrenched, it is inevitable it will have a long-term effect on our attitudes and emotions. This will almost certainly in turn influence what kind of cards we send. Museums so often offer cultural touchstones through the exhibitions they run, but over the past year, they have experienced huge difficulties during lockdown, but I think many people are desperate to enjoy and share art, and programmes such as Grayson Perry's Art Club have certainly witnessed a heightened interest and participation in art and craft. In times of upheaval, nostalgia is a soothing balm, and it's impossible not to notice the increasing trend for a new kind of nostalgia as those born during the 1970s begin to hit their 50s. We've seen it in fashion and interiors, and I think that's beginning to spill over into card choices too with '60s and '70s illustrations becoming really desirable after years in the wilderness.”

A trio of trends… Parties and Hedonism: “There has been some suggestion in the press that, when normal life resumes, the world will experience an elation similar to the post-war years of the 1920s when cocktails, nightclubs and jazz defined the era. We think there

Above right: The Father Christmas and girl on a scooter image has definite retro appeal. (©Medici/Mary Evans Picture Library) Above: Celebration with Champagne. (Mary Evans Picture Library)

Above: Could it be the Roaring 20s rises again in all its hedonistic glory? (A Joseph Kuhn-Regnier image from Mary Evans Picture Library/JohnMaclellan). Below: Jack and Jill, an illustration by Cecil Aldin evokes a feeling of domestic cosiness. (Mary Evans Picture Library)

will definitely be a hedonistic aspect to card designs too and feel that some of our illustrations and photographs from this period (as well as perhaps the Parisian belle epoque) will be popular. Think posters by Toulouse Lautrec and Jules Cheret, the risque illustrations of Joseph Kuhn-Regnier in La Vie Parisienne,1920s cabaret programme covers, glamorous types drinking cocktails - and party scenes with LOTS of people. They all suggest a freedom that we can just about glimpse on the horizon right now.” The Simple Things - Home and Craft: “Conversely, the home has been such a focus of this year, we think that designs that convey this, as well as the associated themes of family, security and peace, will be popular. Art cards with views of cosy, domestic interiors (often with views outside), as well as craft-focused techniques, such as linocuts or wood engravings of pets or the British countryside, channel and cherish the more positive aspects of lockdown. We think something like the gorgeous animal illustrations of Cecil Aldin, the heart linocut by Tess Hines, or some of the classic art available from the Medici Society will be just the ticket.” A New Nostalgia - '60s and '70s illustration: “Now that early adopters are decorating their homes in a new tasteful version of the 1970s aesthetic, the nostalgia for the period can be encapsulated by some of the retro card designs we have through the Medici Society. Illustrations that may have seemed 'naff' 15 years ago now appear full of period charm and bring back fond childhood memories. We recommend illustrators such as Esme Eve, Sheila Findlay or Gwyneth Mamlok if you're looking for original and authentic examples of this style. Groovy baby!” PROGRESSIVE GREETINGS WORLDWIDE

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Art Source

Hannah Curtis (below), director of Creative Sparrow: Drivers: “Greeting cards in themselves are a trend in which we should relish in during 2021.To receive a card is to be given a smile from afar, a handwritten sentiment and tactile product to be displayed in our homes, which, let’s face it are our new islands. We find ourselves looking at the shelves of newsreaders and chat show hosts as they record from their homes, the books they display on their bookcases, the trinkets that give a glimpse into their world and the greeting cards they showcase - no digital message can take the place of a card!”

A trio of trends… Alpine: “This trend combines a multitude of themes we have been seeing throughout 2020 and before, balanced between the ongoing need for mindfulness and calm, the care we have for all things environmental and sustainable and the growing need for the outdoors. Alpine takes us further into the world of adventure and exploration, a visual synonym for the feelings Top right: Artwork by Maria Over (from Creative Sparrow). Above right: Caro Windmuller artwork reflecting the trend for maximalism (from Creative Sparrow). Left: A design by Lucy Hadley (from Creative Sparrow).

Kaye Hunter (below), licensing manager of This Is Iris: Drivers: “We are constantly looking to influencers and forecasters to predict trends to see how they may influence buyer's decisions and more importantly, how they might support the creatives we represent. However, the world has changed so dramatically in the last 12 months that the rule book has been torn up. The inspiration and drivers are very much stemming from our true emotional self rather than being affected by the latest ‘new thing’ or latest radical colour palette. If I had to pick one overarching trend that I feel will be strong this year, it would be that we have all become a bit more human, and more aware of what is important.”

A trio of trends… Mindfulness: “Having been bandied about as a somewhat hollow buzzword for the last few years, the last nine months has given mindfulness real substance. The appreciation of hearing the birds singing, deriving 60

PROGRESSIVE GREETINGS WORLDWIDE

we are experiencing in a world where we seek to explore not only our surroundings but ourselves. This trend allows us to daydream into the great outdoors.” Immersive Ambience: “Having explored the big outdoors, it’s time to come in from the cold and into the solace of our homes and, no matter how big or small, town or country, there is an ongoing desire for our spaces to provide tranquillity. A holistic approach sees spiritual symbols as well as star signs and the current astrology trend enter our home aesthetic, with a dark and magical palette mixed with vibrant pastels and matte metallics. Global inspiration and distant shores make an appearance, with laid back island vibes, tropical leaves and florals used to bring the outside indoors, striving to make our spaces a fulfilling cabinet of curiosities.” Sartorial Fantasy: “The trend for maximalism as we curate ourselves and our interiors sees us seeking vibrant colour palettes and a frivolous aesthetic, a trend for the superfluous yet gorgeous luxuries in life. While we dream of those indulgent parties and wild gatherings, sequins are also making a daring comeback as we embrace the living room disco and allow a relaxed glamour back into our lives.”

pleasure from noticing the blossom on the trees during our daily walks.” Sentiment and Caring: “Things we were once blasé about, seeing family, meeting up with friends, assuming everyone is always there is no longer the case. Purchases, particularly in greeting cards and gifts, have become important conveyers of care, love, showing you are missing people with editorial and script-based designs having much more resonance.” Sustainability: “The fragility of our planet and our responsibility to play our part in safeguarding it has become the norm rather than the exception. Consumers are making more conscientious purchases with concerns over sustainability almost now engrained in our psyche.”

Above right: An uplifting message on a Pabuku design (which is represented on the licensing front by This is Iris). Above: The sentiment of hope for us and our planet is strong on this Georgia Breeze design (from This is Iris). Left: A settling message from a Dom Vari design (from This is Iris).

59-61.qxp_Grid 22/01/2021 11:35 Page 3

Art Source

Jehane Boden-Spiers (below), managing director of Jehane: Drivers: “This time last year my only reference point for the word ‘pandemic’ related to a fiendishly challenging board game. Our very real need to feel connected will significantly impact design trends. The current global situation is driving trends towards increasingly uplifting and meaningful imagery. Our lack of movement, and potential ability to move again, will see a revival in travel and journey-themed artwork. I also think we will see a continued shift towards work which supports nature, learning, and an increased social responsibility.”

A trio of trends… Urban Garden: “Nature’s balm has never been more strongly felt than now. Following on from the popularity of the homegrown trend of growing our own food, there will be an increased shift towards depicting gardens in urban environments. Spending an increased amount of our time in our homes and our gardens will continue as a key trend in 2021. This is a trend I have already encouraged my own artists to embrace in preparation for 2021/2022 and we have already seen a positive response from licensees. This trend makes me reflect on Jenny Uglow’s words: ‘we might think that we are nurturing our garden but of course it is our garden that is nurturing us‘.”

Relatable: “In extraordinary times we look for deeper connections. The many months we have spent at home are not only having an impact on how we relate to each other but also on design trends. Our desire to relate is ever more heightened by the many hours we have spent online. Relatable illustrations which reflect everyday experiences will be increasingly popular. As my Canadian artist Meghann Rader writes: “Sharing relatable stories through imagery allows for greater human connection, especially in a time when we are experiencing so little of that in our daily lives. It reminds us that we aren’t alone in the mundane or silly things we find ourselves doing throughout the day and it reassures us that those things are worthy, important and maybe even inspiring.” Around The World: “With the necessary restrictions related to the Covid-19 pandemic in place, design trends will reflect a deeper interest in travel. I predict an increased popularity of artwork featuring maps, different cultures and countries, and famous cities around the world. Initially in 2020 people were more focused on nesting and how to shelter. As things have evolved, the desire to make our shelters more inspiring has increasingly come into focus. Travel enthusiasts will find creative ways to weave reminiscences of travels into their homes and daily lives.” Top: Christmas wrapping. © Meghann Rader (from Jehane). Above middle: Urban Gardening © Caroline Bonne Muller (from Jehane). Left: Mexican Fiesta. © Tracey English (from Jehane).

Amy Fitzgerald (below), agent for Bright Art Licensing: Drivers: “After a year that disrupted lives globally, 2021 is looking to be more hopeful. Last year we saw people adjust as the Coronavirus pandemic kept us away from social interaction and forced us to live our lives in an unprecedented way. While these practises are still in place, people seem to have taken stock of what is important in the midst of this chaos; kindness and connection remain key this year, with people celebrating life events in new ways. Vivid and vibrant rainbow palettes will continue to be popular, as well as natural imagery and an emphasis on sustainability. We will also see a growth in diversity across the industry and the products we create. It is these huge social events and cultural moments that are likely to inform card and stationery trends this year.”

A trio of trends… Feelgood Colours: “The rainbow motif was adopted as the symbol of hope in 2020, and I think it will continue to dominate in 2021 through bold colour palettes and joyful designs. Designers such as Versace and Left: Feelgood colours and a rainbow by Hanne Rysgaard (from Bright). Far right: A Sarah Long design that celebrates diversity (from Bright).

Below left: A nature-inspired design by Devin McSherry (from Bright).

Christopher John Rogers are embracing mood-boosting prints and stripes in their Spring/Summer 2021 collections and I believe this kaleidoscopic trend will feature strongly across both cards and stationery.” Elements of Nature: “Having spent the majority of last year indoors, people are more desperate than ever for a connection to the outside world. I believe we will see a growing interest in imagery inspired by nature. This trend could manifest itself in leafy patterns and indoor plant illustrations, earthy tones, bold florals or even beautiful exotic vistas as people dream of their next holiday. This trend is also reflected in the drive towards environmentally-friendly products like ‘naked cards’ and recyclable packaging.” Authentic Representation: “2020 shone a spotlight on representation, with watershed moments like the Black Lives Matter protests. Agencies, publishers and retailers are taking steps to ensure their card and stationery offerings better reflect and celebrate the diversity and uniqueness of today’s society. We are already seeing signs of this in new gender-neutral kids’ ranges and diverse representation will rightfully continue to grow in 2021.” PROGRESSIVE GREETINGS WORLDWIDE

The GreATesT COLLeCTiOn OF GreeTinG CArDs in The WOrLD

“PG Live is just the best show and 2021 is going to be such a treat! If there’s one thing trading through 2020 has taught us it’s that you really can’t beat seeing friends and customers in person. That’s the number one reason why we’ll be at PG Live - we’ve been exhibiting there every year since it started and to have the chance to catch up with everyone again will just be so special. UK retailers, our international distributor friends and fellow publishers have all been sorely missed and to look forward and plan for a London show after all we’ve all been through is going to be the cherry on the cake!” Wendy JonesBlackett, Owner,

Wendy Jones-Blackett

The FuTure OF GreeTinGs Last few stands remaininG www.progressivegreetingslive.com

62_PG_January 2021.indd 1

PG Live 2021 Tuesday 8 - Wednesday 9 June Business Design Centre, London +44 (0) 1635 297070 www.progressivegreetingslive.com @PGLiveLondon #PGL2021

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WHAT’S HOT? PG ASKED A COUPLE OF CARD RETAILERS FOR THEIR ‘HOT’ CARD SELLERS PRE COVID-19 LOCKDOWN

Fiona Trees, owner of Memorable Moments in Ripon. A medium sized card and gift shop in the North Yorkshire cathedral city. Category

Name of Publisher

Product/Name Range

Comments

Everyday

Janie Wilson

Ooh La La

Thinking of You/ Keeping in Touch

Rosie Made A Thing

Gin & Frolics

Relations & Occasions

Wendy Jones-Blackett

Fresco

Humour

Paperlink

Bottom Line; Wrinklies

Art

The Eco-friendly Card Company

Kate Andrew

Children’s Adult birthdays

Janie Wilson Laura Darrington Designs Five Dollar Shake

Milkshake Scribbles General

Giftwrappings

Glick

Gifts/ancillaries

East West

Wendy Jones-Blackett and Paper Salad Sunny by Sue gin glasses Soap sponges

“Just beautiful little cards that are reasonably priced.” “This range has really come into its own over the lockdowns - spot on observations. Great Instagram activity.” “Lovely top end designs which have wide appeal.” “Cheeky humour that never loses its appeal” “There was a big pent-up demand for blank art and photographic cards after the lockdowns.” “These two ranges resonate so well with our customers’ tastes.” “Such beautiful, glamorous cards that sell well right up the age range.” “Good quality products at fabulous prices.” “These sell phenomenally well.”

The Soap Story

Top: An Ooh La La design from Janie Wilson. Above: The soap sponges products from The Soap Company come in a variety of scents and colours.

“Incredibly popular products at a good pick-up price.”

Jinny Semmens, owner of Cardtime in Penzance. A popular greeting card shop in a Cornish town Category

Name of Publisher

Product/Name Range

Comments

Everyday

Paper Rose

Lustre and Artisan

Keeping in Touch

Dandelion Stationery

Words of Wisdom

Humour

Country Cards

General

Art

Love From The Artist

Local scenes by local artists

Skiltons’ Artwork

The Skillipigs

UK Greetings

Gibson

“Lustre is my personal favourite at the moment, they are so beautiful and uncomplicated.” “We’ve sold many of the ‘With love from Penzance’ and ‘A humungous hug from West Cornwall’ designs.” “Wonderful range, especially the farming designs.” “A great discovery. A not-for-profit organisation where you can buy from just one of each of a design from artists and photographers.” “The bespoke designs feature a cute hedgehog enjoying local scenery.” “Gibson takes a lot of beating for ‘wordy’ cards.” “So colourful with colouring-in pics on the inside.”

Relations and Occasions Children’s Adult ages Giftwrappings Gifts/Ancillaries

Nigel Quiney Publications Cherry Orchard Glick Otter House

Juvenile Ages Down Memory Lane Paper Salad Jigsaws

Top: A selection of Dandelion designs from Cardtime. Above: A duo of designs from Cherry Orchard’s Down Memory Lane range.

“They have a strong fan base.” “Always very striking and will suit anybody.” “Very sweet. They have made the boxes smaller and with no plastic wrapping.”

PROGRESSIVE GREETINGS WORLDWIDE

Classified Complete 2020.qxp 19/01/2021 16:29 Page 64

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01892 838 574

sales@thecuriousinksmith.co.uk

Warren Lomax warren@max-publishing.co.uk or

Tracey Arnaud traceya@max-publishing.co.uk

PROGRESSIVE GREETINGS WORLDWIDE

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PRODUCT DIRECTORY

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Including firm favourites and brand new designs Brands include: Keepsakes, Words of Love, Jelly Beans, Bella Rose, Champagne and many more

Innovative high quality gift wrap, gift bags, tissue paper and accesssories galore for all seasons and occasions.

Ch C hin nese ese HE IS

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0127 74 4 655980 sales@glick.co.uk www.glick.co.uk

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Tel:: +44 (0)115 986 0115 Te customer t ser vices@paper i @ rose.co.ukk www.writefromthehear t.co.uk

Glick, Unit 1 Allenby House, European Ind. Park, Knowles Lane, Bradford BD4 9AB

@glickgiftwrap .6-5*3"$*"- and -(#5 (3&&5*/( $"3%4

135 Hea 13 135 eaton Moorr Rd | Stockp ock kpo port ort SK4 4HY 4 4H HY

To appear in the Product Directories simply contact

Warren Lomax on:

020 7700 6740

or email on warren@max-publishing.co.uk or contact

â&#x20AC;˘ UK Market leaders with humour, art, photographic, contemporary and traditional occasions & relations cards, plus seasonal. â&#x20AC;˘ 2Î?HULQJ D IXOO SODQQLQJ VHUYLFH with merchandising and retail development opportunities.

Hue tribe

www.huetribe.com t: +44(0) 7943416562 e: info@huetribe.com facebook: www.facebook.com/huetribedesign

â&#x20AC;˘ Specialists in garden centres and the independent trade.

CPNF TFF PVS OFX JMMVTUSBUJPOT PO 45"/% 41 BU 1( -*7& % OFF ALL SHOW ORDERS

Tracey Arnaud on:

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07957 212 062

or email on traceya@max-publishing.co.uk

CHARITY GREETING CARDS One of the UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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. Find The Great British Card Company on: High Quality Greeting Cards, Gift Bags, Gift Wrap & Ta Tags for every occasion.

Hallmark Cards PLC SUPPLIER

*GCF 1HĆ&#x201A;EG +353 (0)404 20528 Email info@garlanna.com www.garlanna.com

PROGRESSIVE GREETINGS WORLDWIDE

www.greatbritishcards.co.uk Waterwells Drive, Gloucester GL2 2PH Tel: 01452 888970

Dawson Lane, Bradford, BD4 6HN UK&NI: 0800 90 20 900 ROI: 012 480 104 customerqueriesUK@hallmark.com

Impress Publishing Appledown House Barton Business Park New Dover Road Canterbury, Kent CT1 3TE Tel: 01227 811 611 Fax: 01227 811 618 email: info@impresspublishing.co.uk

Classified Complete 2020.qxp 19/01/2021 16:31 Page 67

PRODUCT DIRECTORY

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WIDE RANGE OF PRODUCTS

l PRODUCT DIRECTORY

Marina B Designs from me to you with love

“Art that tells a story…”

Happy Mother’s Dayy D

An exciting and innovative range of quality Birthday, Relations, Special Occasions, Handmade, Art and Humorous greeting cards. Full range of Christmas and Spring Seasons merchandise.

B rand N ames a Pizazz, Pizazz Gallery, G Pizazz Limited Edition, E Pizazz for Men, Doodle, D A of Nature, Whatt a Picture, Art Designers Corner Cloudesley House, Shire Hill, Saffron Walden,, CB11 3FB

T: 01799 520200 F: F: 01799 520100 www.nigelquiney.c w ww ww.nigelquiney.com om

Love Country by Sarah Reilly

years

Your Number One Supplier of Numerals, Name, Relation & Age Labels for Greetings Cards.

e in the U

Huge selection with immediate delivery y.. Buy direct or from your wholesalerr.. Listan Labels 3 Isis Court, Wyndyke Furlong, Abingdon Business Park, Abingdon, Oxfordshire OX1 5JN Te T el 01235 465489 Fax 01235 532118 www.listanpublications.co.uk sales@listanpublications.co.uk

Tel: 07735 918118 sarah@lovecountryuk.co.uk www.lovecountryuk.co.uk

www.marinab.co.uk mar in a@ m a rinab. co.u k Agents wanted

LING DESIGN

originalposter.com

All our cards are supplied on consignment, so you only pay for what you sell. We also supply card fixtures and spinners free-on-loan. We replace slow sellers and damaged stock free of charge. We merchandise regularly, so you don’t have to. THAT’S WHY WE’RE ORIGINAL!

01932 267 300

www.lingdesign.co.uk

01892 838 574 information@lingdesign.co.uk Great brands, Great service Bespoke planning We can help with all your planning l i requir i ements. t From smaller displays to redeveloping complete card departments

To appear in the Product Directories email Warren Lomax warren@max-publishing.co.uk or Tracey Arnaud traceya@max-publishing.co.uk

@NoelT Ta attGroup 01227 811 600 sales@noeltatt.co.uk www.noeltatt.co.uk

PROGRESSIVE GREETINGS WORLDWIDE

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PRODUCT DIRECTORY

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p p paperlink... the home of fabulous cards!

356 Kennington Rd London SE11 4LD T 020 7582 8244 info@paperlink.co.uk k www.paperlink.co.uk Paperlinkcards

raspber r yblossom.com

@ @paperlinkcards

hello@raspberryblossom.com

Send Love e

020 3723 5405

( all year round )

LUXURY GIFT PACKAGING

t: 0208 6138 085 paperbirdpublishing.co.uk u

ICONIC LICENCED BRANDS

greeting cards & contempoRary gifts

01892 838 574 www.pennykennedy.co.uk

www.redbackcards.com e: info@redbackcards.com t: 01752 830482

PURPLE TREE DESIGNS Exquisite Designs Beautiful Cards

Awesome cards inspired by life and cats Uk publisher of Greetings Cards with an extensive range of quality Birthday, Relations, Occasions and Seasonal product...

Key br ands include: Wr ite from the Hear t Ar tisan, Marzipan, Capisco Designer s Guild, Clare Tupperr Lucy Ledger plus man y more

available from

t. 07779 654 694 e. info@ruby-tuesday.co.uk www.ruby-tuesday.co.uk

LING DESIGN

Our Brands: Laughter with Animals, Sporting Fun The Funny Side of Life.

Tel:: +44 (0)115 986 0115 Te customer ser vices@paperrose.co.uk www.paperrose.co.uk www.ar tgroupcards.co.uk

PROGRESSIVE GREETINGS WORLDWIDE

purpletreedesigns.co.uk info@purpletreedesigns.co.uk @purpletreedesigns

Method of sale: Direct to Retail 14-20 Eldon Way, Paddock Wood, Kent TN12 6BE Tel: 01892 838574 enquiries@lingdesign.co.uk www.lingdesign.co.uk

AGENTS WANTED

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PRODUCT DIRECTORY

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The UK’s leading publisher of highest quality handmade Greetings Cards. Products: Greetings cards for all occasions, Christmas and Spring Seasons. Spinners and other retail displays available. Talking Pictures Cards Ltd 14-20 Eldon Way, Paddock Wood, Kent, TN12 6BE

Tel: 01892 838574 enquiries@talkingpics.co.uk www.talking-pictures.co.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

DIRECT TO RETAIL & EXPORT

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

7RPFDW &DUGV TEL: 01480 435562 FAX: 01480 450599

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.tracksltd.com

WWW.XXPRESSYOURSELFCARDS.CO.UK

UNIT 2, 12 BLACKSTONE RD, STUKELEY MEADOWS IND EST,

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.

HUNTINGDON, CAMBS, PE29 6EF

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

www.tomcat.cards info@tomcat.cards

To appear in the Product Directories email Warren Lomax warren@max-publishing.co.uk or Tracey Arnaud traceya@max-publishing.co.uk PROGRESSIVE GREETINGS WORLDWIDE

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WHOLESALE

view by rufus designed in thames ditton

We offffer a We COMPREHEN

range of high Greeting Cards f ALL Occasions,

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... and if we fall into the ountain, we will just prosecco ffo ha av ve to drink our wa ay y out!

Season f Sale:

topdog@view by rufus.com 020 8972 9706

viewbyrufus.com

mail: inffo o@words-nWeb: www We w..words-n-wishes.co.uk

Tel: 01942 233201

Market Leaders in

& entimen

an extensive range of superior quality,

design-led Greeting Cards for all occasions, Spring Seasons & Christmas.

A Cards e Art Botanical Fine

Verse

Vibrant and nd elegant gree greeting cards A fr freshly modern perspective on nature

Method of Sale: Direct to Retail Orders can be placed on our trader site

www.cbgtrader.co.uk or call our customer services team on

+44(0)1243 792600

PROGRESSIVE GREETINGS WORLDWIDE

Call Now 075 7700 1145 www.zaquarella.co.uk info@ zaquarella.com

EUROPEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S LEADING GREETINGS CARDS, PARTY PRODUCTS, GIFTS, CANDLES, TOYS, STATIONERY AND FLORIST SUNDRIES DISTRIBUTION CENTRE 75000 SQ FT BESCOT CRESCENT, WALSALL, WEST MIDLANDS. WS1 4NG 01922-646666 www.greetingshouse.co.uk info@greetingshouse.co.uk MON,WED,FRI 8.00am-4.45pm TUES,THURS 8.00am-7.45pm SAT,SUN 8.00am-1.45pm

To appear in the Product Directories email Warren Lomax warren@max-publishing.co.uk or Tracey Arnaud traceya@max-publishing.co.uk

Classified Complete 2020.qxp 19/01/2021 16:33 Page 71

DIRECTORY OF WHOLESALE

CLASSIFIED

l CLASSIFIED BAGS

Polypropylene & biodegradable bag specialists

GREETING CARD

Over 40 years quality service to the trade Hotfoiling also available

T 01206 396209 E sales@badgerconverters.co.uk www.badgerconverters.co.uk

BAGS We’ve been producing p bags of high clarity and high quality q for over 30 years. 01274 220 220 www w.wrapid.co.uk sales@wrapid.co.uk

BAGS

GIVE E YOUR

Manuffacturers of high quality fllexible packaging 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE - QUA UALITTY Y SERVICE EXTENSIVE STOCK RANGE - QUICK DE ELIVERY ASSURED

- HEADER BAGS - WA WALLET BAGS - ZIPPER BAGS - FLEXOGRAPHIC, HOTFOIL & THEERMAL PRINTING www.transrappackagin ng.co.uk sales@transrap.co o.uk

CALL US TODA AY

01773 5378 810

V VIP

TREA AT A TMENT HIGH CLARITY L TY Y BA AGS FOR R GREETING G ET T NG CARD DS, CALEND EN N ARS ARS AND AND D ARTW TWORK WORK ŏ ŏđŏ ŏ FOIL LB BLOCKING NG G EXTE XTENSIVE NSIV VE RANG V R RA ANGE OF S ST TOCK SIZES SIZ ZES AND BES AND BE ESPO OKE KE MANUF KE MANU UF FACTU TUR TURE T U E AT TED D WRAPPING SERVICE NEW AUTOMA

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0122 1228 228 2 28 8 5605 56 60 052 26 6 www.fful ulcrumﬁlms. ulcrrum mﬁllm ms s co.uk uk

PROGRESSIVE GREETINGS WORLDWIDE

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PRINTERS

ENVELOPES

FOR ALL YOUR ENVELOPE NEEDS! Largest range of in-stock colours Over 400 Bespoke Envelope Sizes 8 Sizes Permanently in Stock RECYCLED

PAPER

100% Recycled Paper Available Stock & Bespoke Cello Bags Peel & Stick Envelopes Bespoke Service on Request

ORDER ON LINE AT:

W W W. EN VE CO .CO .U K

01 90 83 78 86 6

www.regentenvelopes.com 01274 583000 sales@regentenvelopes.com

IN FO @E NV EC O. CO .U K

‘we we make Envelopes and Stationery’

MOREE THAN 50 COLOURS 6 POPULAR GREEETINGS CARD SIZES 50+ WH HITE SIZES IN STOCK BESPOKE ENV VELOPES AV AVAILABLE PEEL A AND SEAL CLOSURE RECYCLED / KRAFTT / 140GSM / 120GSM 11 SUPER BRIG GHT NEON COLOURS BESPOKE NOTEBO OOKS & STATIONERY

PLEASE GET IN TOUCH FOR TARY RY YOUR COMPLIMENTA ENVELOPE OR NOTEBOOK WATCH PA PACK SWA

SPECIALISTS IN SHORT RUN MULTI IMAGE PRINT s Foiling Services without the need for dies s Wiro bound notebooks, no minimum quantity s In House Fulfilmment Services

T 01274 305832 E info@hellocards.co.uk www.hellocards.co.uk

The simplest way to order your greetings cards

FLITTERING FOR ALL YOUR FLITTER REQUIREMENTS

ABL Foil Ltd Unit 1, Industrial Estate East Hanningfield Chelmsford Essex, CM3 8AB 72

PROGRESSIVE GREETINGS WORLDWIDE

Contact DAVID JIGGINS Tel: 01245 400104 Email: david@abl-ltd.co.uk

Unit 8, Archers Park, Branbridges Road, East Peckham, Kent TN12 5HP www.theimagingcentre.co.uk Email: info@theimagingcentre.co.uk Tel: 01622 871449

we print

we ﬁnish

we pack

we deliver

Classified Complete 2020.qxp 19/01/2021 16:33 Page 73

CLASSIFIED

l CLASSIFIED PRINTERS

l CLASSIFIED

l PRINTERS

l CLASSIFIED

l PRINTERS

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PJ PRINT Celebrating 166 years of service to the printing industry...

LONDON The Capitals Only Specialist Greeting Card Printer All Industry Finishes Available In-House Including Laser Cutting

Over a century and a half of expert printing knowledge, Loxleys are the home of specialist lithographic and digital greeting card production

The Print Works Colville Road, Acton, London, W3 8BL E-mail: sales@pj-print.co.uk Tel: 020 8993 5160 www.pj-print.co.uk

Your saf ep ai

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Outstanding, cost effective and efficient production of Greeting cards, Packaging and Social stationery, ideal for intricate and hand finished products. • Over 15 years experience providing high-quality printed products direct from the Far East • Trusted and financially stable, UK owned by The Sherwood Group • Socially responsible manufacturing: SMETA, ISO9001, ISO14001, FSC certification • Full product prototyping in the UK for competitive speed to market requirements

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To find out how we can benefit your business, contact Derek Lam +00 (852) 3527 3471 / derek@sherwood-press.com or The Sherwood Group Head Office Hong Kong Office: 13/F, Kam Chung Commercial Building, 19-21 Hennessy Road, Wanchai, Hong Kong

www w..sherwoodgroupuk.com

000510

PROGRESSIVE GREETINGS WORLDWIDE

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l CLASSIFIED PRINTERS

l CLASSIFIED

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Social Sta tationerry Printer of the Year

Award winning U UK & Global specialist manufacturer ffor the greeting card industry fo or over 40 years To discuss how we can worrk together, contact Richard Bacon: Tel 0115 928 7766 Email ric chard.bacon@sherwoodgroupuk.com

www.sherrwoodgroupuk.com Hadden Court, Glaisdale e Parkway, Glaisdale Drive West, Nottin ngham NG8 4GP

WAREHOUSING & DISTRIBUTION

Same day order turna around Accurate fulfilment Value added only as you sell the product

THE SPECIALIST GREE ETINGS CARD PRINTE ER

Exclusively Greeting Cards Dedicated Account Managers

Litho Print

Die-cutting

Digital Print

Flittering

Foiling

Packing

Embossing

Distribution

With an excellent reputation we work as an integral part of yourr team bringing QYGL QSVI XLER JYPǻPQIRX 4YV GSWXMRK WXVYGXYVI MW WMQTPI ERH XVERWTEVIRX ;I ; I GEVV] SYX EPP EWTIGXW SJ LERH ǻRMWLMRK ERH EWWIQFP] ERH TVSZMHI [LEXIZIV EHHMXMSREP WIVZMGIW ]SY RIIH 4YV WIPIGX XIEQ SJ SYX[SVOIVW GEVIJYPP] LERH [VET ER] WM^I SV JSVQEX SJ GEVHW YVKIRXP] 4ZIVRMKLX ;I GEVI EFSYX ]SYV TVSHYGX EW QYGL EW ]SY HS &XXIRXMSR XS HIXEMP 6( .WWYIW ;I

Tel:0127 e 4 4531828 Email: info@herbertw o alkers.co.uk

www.herbertwalkers.co.u uk

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