The Greats Awards 2017 - Event Brochure

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THE

FINALISTS 4 May 2017 Grosvenor House Hotel The Ballroom Park Lane London W1K 7TN

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Welcome To. . .

A Day Set To Dazzle!

As The Greats Awards get ready to celebrate their 15th crystal anniversary in the sparkling Ballroom of the Grosvenor House Hotel on London's swanky Park Lane, Progressive Gifts & Home is delighted to welcome 2017's fabulous finalists and sponsors to this afternoon's glittering Awards event.

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truly special day in the gift industry calendar, there'll be plenty of glitz and glamour with the stars of the show this year's Greats finalists themselves.

For now, we can't wait to get into The Greats 'bubble' with a pre-lunch drinks reception, sponsored by category sponsor Root Candles, which will be followed by a magnificent Greats lunch that's been specially created for the Awards by the leading chefs at the Grosvenor House.

As always, The Greats bring together not only the cream of gift retail but also our fantastic sponsors, the industry's leading gift suppliers and trade show organisers - see page 4 - as well as reps and agents who are at the cutting edge of gift retail.

With an exciting milestone anniversary year to celebrate, we couldn't be more excited about The Greats 2017, so have a marvellous time and the very best of luck to all our fantastic finalists!

The Greats Team Sue Marks, Angie Bryant, Jakki Brown, Ian Hyder and Warren Lomax The Greats Awards 2017

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A HUGE THANKS’ TO OUR FABULOUS SPONSORS What makes The Greats possible is the support of the gifts industry, with some fabulous companies sponsoring individual categories to ensure The Greats is the most prestigious event on the gift industry's calendar.

We would like to thank the amazing companies - some of whom are Greats stalwarts, others who are new sponsors this year - for helping to make The Greats the most prestigious and unique Awards to recognise and reward gift retailers across the spectrum.

l Retail Employee of the Year 2017: Sponsored by Clarion Events/Home & Gift Buyer's Festival, Harrogate l Independent Gift Retailer of the Year - London (inside M25): Sponsored by Ashleigh & Burwood l Independent Gift Retailer of the Year Home Counties, South and South East: Sponsored by Carte Blanche l Independent Gift Retailer of the Year East Anglia: Sponsored by Harrogate Christmas & Gift l Independent Gift Retailer of the Year Midlands & Wales: Sponsored by Progressive Gifts & Home l Independent Gift Retailer of the Year North & Northern Ireland: Sponsored by Joe Davies l Independent Gift Retailer of the Year South West: Sponsored by Wild & Wolf l Independent Gift Retailer of the Year Scotland: Sponsored by Sass & Belle l Independent Gift Retailer of the Year Newcomer South and Wales: Sponsored by Dartington Crystal l Independent Gift Retailer of the Year Newcomer Midlands, North and Scotland: Sponsored by Ascential/Autumn Fair l Best Specialist Multiple Retailer of Gifts: Sponsored by Root Candles l Best Department Store Retailer of Gifts: Sponsored by Yankee Candle l Best Non-Specialist Retailer of Gifts: Sponsored by the London Stationery Show/National Stationery Week l Best Lifestyle or Homewares Retailer of Gifts: Sponsored by NPW l Best Gift Retailer of Jewellery and Fashion Accessories: Sponsored by Shrieking Violet l Best Garden Centre Retailer of Gifts: Sponsored by Premier Decorations l Best Museum or Visitor Attraction Gift Shop: Sponsored by Ravensden l Best In-Store or Window Display: Sponsored by Gisela Graham l Best Online or Mail Order Gift Retailer: Sponsored by Gift Republic l Best Retailer Initiative: Sponsored by Brainbox Candy/Unknown Ink l Best Service to the Independent Gift Retailer: Sponsored by PG Live 2017 l Honorary Achievement Award: Sponsored by The Giftware Association

HAVING A LAUGH Everyone likes a giggle, and there to make guests laugh before the Awards are presented will be stand-up comedian, singer and actor Charlie Baker.

Charlie's credits include playing the O2 (Channel 4's Comedy Gala), appearing alongside Harry Hill on Sky 1’s Tea Time and causing trouble in East Enders!

Also entertaining guests will be London jazz trio Midnight Blue whose repertoire spans a quirky take on classic and modern pop.

Above: Comedian Charlie Baker.

Right: Jazz trio Midnight Blue.

Above right: The Greats invitations and menus were specially created by Wendy Jones-Blackett.

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The Greats Awards 2017

A Glittering Thanks To. . .

Carrie Elspeth for supplying the sparkling carded bracelets as name cards to go on the tables; Wendy Jones-Blackett for creating the artwork for the bubbly Greats invitations and menu cards; Really Good for sponsoring the petit fours to celebrate the company's 30th anniversary in 2017, and Root Candles for sponsoring The Greats drinks reception, as well as the stand-up/sit down competition.

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GREATS GOODY BAGS All guests will take home a fabulous goody bag that's bursting with gifts.

In alphabetical order, the goody bags will include: l Ashleigh & Burwood: The Scented Home reed diffusers l Bolsius: wax melts l Carte Blanche: keyrings l Gift Republic: Blue Willow notebooks l Gisela Graham: bespoke gift boxed glass vases l Joe Davies: bespoke Greats 'selfie' photo frames l NPW: Beauty Junky silver jewel lip balm l Ravensden: plush toys l Really Good: perfume bottles l Root Candles: Drizzling Honey candles l Sass & Belle: nail files and foldable shopping bags l The Giftware Association: Gift of the Year winners and finalists brochure l Wild & Wolf: Gents lip balm, Ridley's creepy crawlies and Ridley's wooden spinning tops. l Yankee Candle: Angel Wings jar candles

About The Grosvenor House l The imposing Grosvenor House Hotel on Park Lane, situated in Mayfair and over looking Hyde Park, in the heart of London, has a distinguished, glamorous, and aristocratic pedigree stretching back nearly 350 years. l The hotel was the first in London to have a bathroom in every bedroom and the first in Europe to have running iced water in every bathroom. l Originally built as an ice rink, the Great Room hosted The Halloween Ice Festival and Dance, held in October 1929. l The festival included exhibition dancing and skating on the ice and was visited by the Prince of Wales. l As well as hosting various sporting clubs and events, Queen Elizabeth II took ice skating lessons in the Great Room. l With the popularity of ice galas and balls, the Great Room was converted into a banqueting space. l Over the centuries, the hotel has had numerous owners, and is currently owned by the Jumeirah Group.

Top left: This year's goody bags have been generously supplied by Lesser & Pavey.

Above left: A bespoke Greats 'selfie' photo frame from Joe Davies.

Above right: Ashleigh & Burwood's Blackberry Picking reed diffuser, among the fragrances in the company's The Scented Home range.

Left: NPW's Beauty Junky silver jewel lip balm.

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What’s On the Menu Sparkling Starter Pastrami of Scottish smoked salmon, crispy Burford Brown Scotch egg on a bed of chargrilled English asparagus with a rapeseed oil dressing (Pre-ordered vegetarian) A Wellington of spicy vegetables and Puy lentils served with a light curried coconut and coriander sauce, accompanied by green beans, baby carrots and fondant potoatoes

Crystal ‘Maize’ Roast corn-fed chicken with a herb crust, served with flageolet beans, fondant potato braised with smoked garlic, heritage carrots, wilted spinach, with sun-blush tomato and truffle oil basil jus

A Diamond Dessert Tian of rhubarb, served with a custard quenelle and topped with a strawberry candyfloss shard

The Final Facet Petit fours, sponsored by Really Good, which is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2017

Coffee

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New products.

Fresh ideas.

More reasons to visit than ever before Register now!

Find out more and register at homeandgift.co.uk/TheGreats

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Retail Employee of the Year 2017 Criteria: Awarded to a special someone who has 'gone the extra mile' and made an outstanding contribution to the running or growth of a gift shop or gift department.

The 2017 finalists are Lisa Dean, manager, Feathering Your Nest, Rayleigh

Jane Bailess, assistant buyer, head office, John Lewis "Jane has worked for John Lewis for over 25 years and is a huge asset to our business with a positive outlook and 'can do' attitude that underlies all the great things she achieves as an assistant buyer in our gifting areas. This year, she has been particularly instrumental in working with our home fragrance brands on pop up activity in store to add a new dimension to our customers' experience. She has a great relationship with our supply base and is well know across many of the gifting industries including Home Fragrance, Stationery and Christmas. She is often seen before opening, and sometimes before dawn breaks, working with the teams to relay and merchandise departments or brands."

Nominated by: Sara Allbright, buyer, Home and Gift Collections/Candleshop, John Lewis

Kim Foy, shop assistant, Gaslight Gift Shop, Castletown "Kim always treats my shop as if it were her own. She decorates and merchandises products using her own personal items, keeps the shop scrupulously clean and has even been known to get her husband to change the light bulbs! She is always ready to help in a crisis and has a wonderful way with customers. I could not manage without her. She is a real blessing."

Nominated by: Sheree Bolleurs, owner, Gaslight Gift Shop, Castletown

Nicky Leach, sales assistant, MiMi (hw), Hartley Wintney "Nicky is an amazing member of MiMi, always going above and beyond with customer service. A post on our Facebook page says it all: “I just want to say a huge thank you to Nicky at this gorgeous gift shop. We spent ages in here the other weekend getting Christmas presents and discovered some lovely name bracelets.

Unfortunately, there was no 'Y' to finish off spelling my daughter’s name, but the lovely Nicky has just called to say they have them in and is going to post one out to me. I am really grateful for the shop's amazing customer service. We’ll definitely be back soon!

Thank you xx". Nicky's attention to detail is fantastic. She is such a fabulous employee."

Nominated by: Julianne Moore, owner, MiMi (hw), Hartley Wintney

Category sponsored by

"Lisa is a bit like Mary Poppins. Perfect in every way. Her dedication to Feathering Your Nest, the staff and myself help to make the shop a pleasant working and shopping environment. Lisa loves what she does and it shines throughout every aspect of her working role. The agents adore her too. I couldn't ask for more in a manager."

Nominated by: Lesley Dunne, owner, Feathering Your Nest, Rayleigh

Sarah Kiely, manager, Lily Blue, Hagley "When I bought Lily Blue with no prior retail experience, Sarah was my first team member. Over the past three years I can honestly say that there have been days when without her I could have easily slipped behind the till in a blubbering heap!

She has kept me upright and laughing, and a little over three years since our working relationship began, Sarah is now my trusted manager heading up a team of five. Our customers often stop me on the village high street to tell me how kind Sarah has been, and how lucky I am to have found such a gem. Nothing is too much trouble, and while this is our shop ethos, Sarah goes above and beyond everyday. So many little things make Sarah such a special employee."

Nominated by: Angela Jones, owner, Lily Blue, Hagley

Zoe Whitehead, gift buyer, Tong Garden Centre, Tong, Bradford "Zoe has taken on the task of totally turning round an under-performing gift area in a garden centre that had almost become long forgotten. It is now under new ownership and, with the support of the new team, has firmly put this garden centre back on the map as the top centre in Yorkshire. Zoe has a great eye for products and superb displays and is always accessible to talk to and open to looking at new ranges. The gift area is now a fantastic shopping experience."

Nominated by: Gift agent Sue Brayshaw

“The Home & Gift Buyers’ Festival is a fantastic buying destination, providing fresh ideas and new products for all retailers. Taking place from 16-19 July in Harrogate, it’s a uniquely social event and one you cannot afford to miss. We’re delighted to be supporting The Greats to recognise the hard work and commitment that all of these remarkable employees demonstrate.”

The Greats Awards 2017 www.homeandgift.co.uk

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Independent Gift Retailer of the Year London (inside M25) Criteria: Independent gift retailers in London (inside M25) who have shown excellence in all areas across the retail spectrum over the last year, including range of gifts, product knowledge, customer service, shop environment, marketing and display.

The 2017 finalists are

The Dulwich Trader, Ed and Tomlinsons, Dulwich

Gift Box, Uxbridge

InSpitalfields, Spitalfields

Source, South Woodford and Spitalfields

Space, Exmouth Market

We Built This City, Carnaby Street

Category sponsored by "It is a true honour for us to sponsor the award for Independent Gift Retailer of the Year – London. As a family business with London roots we welcome the opportunity to support independent retailers, who are intrinsic to the heart of our own company and the giftware industry as a whole." www.ashleigh-burwood.co.uk

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Independent Gift Retailer of the Year Home Counties, South & South East Criteria: Independent gift retailers in the Home Counties, South & the South East who have shown excellence in all areas across the retail spectrum over the last year, including range of gifts, product knowledge, customer service, shop environment, marketing and display.

The 2017 finalists are

England At Home, Brighton

The Green Room, Sawbridgeworth

Metalyka, Stony Stratford

Red Card, Petworth

Something Special, Edenbridge

White Mint, Berkhamsted and St Albans

Category sponsored by “Carte Blanche is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. The company has grown from humble beginnings in 1987 selling a handful of greeting cards to become the UK's largest independent gift and greeting card publisher. Carte Blanche would like to wish all Greats 2017 finalists the very best of luck.� www.cbgtrader.co.uk

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Congratulations to all finalists and winners in the Greats Awards!

We look forward to welcoming you all to the 2018 show!

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Independent Gift Retailer of the Year EAST ANGLIA Criteria: Independent gift retailers in East Anglia who have shown excellence in all areas across the retail spectrum over the last year, including range of gifts, product knowledge, customer service, shop environment, marketing and display.

The 2017 finalists are

Cloudnine, Market Deeping

Feathering Your Nest, Rayleigh

Gifted, Norwich

House & Garden, Snape Maltings

Plum Green, Hadleigh

Upstairs Downstairs, Cromer

Category sponsored by "Harrogate Christmas & Gift, 14th-17th January 2018, is one of the UK’s fastest growing trade shows for the Christmas sector and a favourite for buyers seeking festive products such as Christmas trees, decorations, ornaments, gifts and year-round ranges for the home and garden. The team extends congratulations to all short-listed companies and looks forward to welcoming everyone to the 2018 show." www.harrogatefair.com

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maxpublishing Market leading trade magazines

Market leading trade awards

Market Leading Trade Exhibitions

Max Publishing, United House, North Road, London N7 9DP For further details please contact us on T: 020 7700 6740 or www.max-publishing.co.uk or email ianh@max-publishing.co.uk

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Independent Gift Retailer of the Year MIDLANDS & WALES Criteria: Independent gift retailers in the Midlands & Wales who have shown excellence in all areas across the retail spectrum over the last year, including range of gifts, product knowledge, customer service, shop environment, marketing and display.

The 2017 finalists are

The Alphabet Gift Shop, Burton on Trent and Mickleover

The Bottle Kiln, West Hallam

Printer + Tailor, Hereford

Purple Holly, Bassingham

Rhubarb, Great Malvern

Selections, Port Talbot

Category sponsored by "In a milestone 15th anniversary year for The Greats, PG&H is delighted to be sponsoring the Independent Gift Retailer of the Year Midlands & Wales category.

We wish all our fabulous finalists the very best of luck and every future success." www.progressivegifts.co.uk

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Congratulations and good luck to all ‘The Greats’ finalists.

We are proud to have been sponsors of ‘The Greats’ for 15 years and wish you every success on the big day.

2017 Mercury Two Tone Balloons

Progressive Gifts Greats Awards 2016

14 times winners

Bright Sentiment Plaques

Leonardo Gold Word Glasses

Price's Signature Collection

Equilibrium® Sentiment

Best Service to the Independent Retailer

Butterfly Wall Art

Joe Davies Limited 149 Broadstone Road, Reddish, Stockport SK5 7GA Tel: 0161 975 6300 Fax: 0161 975 6301 Email: sales@joedavies.co.uk www.joedavies.co.uk

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Independent Gift Retailer of the Year North and Northern Ireland Criteria: Independent gift retailers in the North and Northern Ireland who have shown excellence in all areas across the retail spectrum over the last year, including range of gifts, product knowledge, customer service, shop environment, marketing and display.

The 2017 finalists are

Acanthus, Corbridge

The Emporium Interiors, Clitheroe

The Bottom Drawer, Portadown

Presentation, Barrowford

Serendipity, Hull Category sponsored by "Joe Davies are delighted to be once again sponsoring The Greats Awards. Independent retailers are the driving force of our industry through their hard work, creativity and dedication and are at the heart of everything we do at Joe Davies. The finalists are already winners and we wish them luck on the big day." www.joedavies.co.uk

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Independent Gift Retailer of the Year SOUTH WEST Criteria: Independent gift retailers in the South West who have shown excellence in all areas across the retail spectrum over the last year, including range of gifts, product knowledge, customer service, shop environment, marketing and display.

The 2017 finalists are

Brocante, Fowey

Cilla & Camilla, Bearminster and Bridport

Daisy Park, South Molton

Heritage in Thornbury, Thornbury

Illustrated Living, Truro

Jo Amor, Tiverton

Category sponsored by "Wild & Wolf is a design company, specialising in the production of unique gifts and lifestyle products. Based in the South West, Wild & Wolf thrive on the support, loyalty and sales gained from local independents, and are proud to sponsor these awards once again." www.wildandwolf.com

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Sweet Dreams Collection

Gold Monochrome Collection

Kawaii Friends Collection

Tropical Sum m

er Collection

Proud to be sponsoring Independent Gift Retailer Scotland Good luck to all finalists! www.sassandbelletrade.co.uk I info@sassandbelle.com I +44 (0)207 346 0100

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Independent Gift Retailer of the Year Scotland Criteria: Independent gift retailers in the Scotland who have shown excellence in all areas across the retail spectrum over the last year, including range of gifts, product knowledge, customer service, shop environment, marketing and display.

The 2017 finalists are

The Gift, Beauly

The Keekin' Glass, Prestwick

The Old School Beauly, Beauly

Maia Gifts, Glasgow

Papyrus, Glasgow

Top Drawer, St Andrews

Category sponsored by "At Sass & Belle, we are extremely excited to be sponsoring The Greats. Independent retailers are at the core of our gift and homeware business and we’re delighted we get a chance to celebrate and reward retailers for all their incredible work. Good luck to all the finalists!" www.sassandbelletrade.co.uk www.sassandbelle.co.uk

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Celebrate with Dartington

5255c Silver =grey 30% black

The Best of Great British Gifts Tel: 01805 626226 • www.dartington.co.uk • sales@dartington.co.uk Great Awards 2017 advert.indd 1 22_GREATS 2017.indd 22

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Best Newcomer - South & Wales Criteria: A new independent gift shop which has opened since January 2014 in the South and Wales. Nominees have shown excellence in all areas across the retail spectrum over the last year, including a range of gifts, product knowledge, customer service, shop environment, marketing and display.

The 2017 finalists are

Highworth Emporium, Highworth

Josie’s, Bideford

Mash, Chipping Norton

Meggie's, Stow on the Wold

Mooch, Ealing

Sunower, Braunton

Category sponsored by "As an established part of the UK gift industry, Dartington Crystal is pleased to support and recognise the achievement of its best retailers. New retail players bring new ideas and fresh competition which helps drive the standards of others. As our business is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2017 we are proud to be associated with the 'crystal' anniversary of the Great Awards." www.dartington.co.uk

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A LITTLE NOTE TO SAY GOOD LUCK! CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL THE WINNERS AND NOMINEES AT THE GREATS AWARDS FROM THE TEAM AT AUTUMN FAIR.

WWW.AUTUMNFAIR.COM

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Best Newcomer - Midlands, North & Scotland Criteria: A new independent gift shop which has opened since January 2014 in the Midlands, North and Scotland.

Nominees have shown excellence in all areas across the retail spectrum over the last year, including a range of gifts, product knowledge, customer service, shop environment, marketing and display.

The 2017 finalists are

Barefoot Living, Burnham Market

Birdhouse Interiors, Ripon

Joco Interiors, Nuneaton

The Lions Paw, Bridge of Weir

Penny & Black, Lundin Links

Serendipity House, Kirkham

Category sponsored by "Autumn Fair is delighted to support The Greats as they recognise and reward the very best retailers and retail employees in the industry. As the most important buying destination of the season, Autumn Fair also looks forward to welcoming both winners and nominees to the show in September." www.autumnfair.com The Greats Awards 2017

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CANDLES

The natural choice...

Proud Sponsor of the award for Best Specialist Multiple Retailer of Gifts

All natural beeswax blend.

Root Candles would like to wish all GREATS finalists the best of luck!

01484 850059 - office@rootcandles.co.uk - www.rootcandles.co.uk

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Best Specialist Multiple Gift Retailer Criteria: Retailers with four or more shops, excluding department stores, supermarkets and garden centres.

Excellence in all areas across the retail spectrum over the last year, including product range, product knowledge, staff training, customer care, marketing and promotion, window and product display, as well as commitment to the gift sector.

The 2017 finalists are

Between The Lines (13 stores)

Lorimers (11 stores)

Utility (4 stores)

French Grey (4 stores)

Love Aroma (10 stores)

Sass & Belle (4 stores)

Vinegar Hill (11 stores)

Category sponsored by “Root’s all natural beeswax blend candles are fragranced with essential oils and coloured using vegetable dyes. All our ingredients are 100% sustainably sourced. The finished product is a longer cleaner burning premium candle. Root are delighted to be sponsoring The Greats to show our appreciation for the hard work and dedication of the independent retailers.We wish all the finalists the best of luck.” www.rootcandles.co.uk

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Proud sponsors of the Best Department Store Retailer of Gifts Category

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Best Department Store Retailer of Gifts Criteria: This award was open to individual independent department stores or a specific branch of a department store chain. They have shown excellence in all areas across the retail spectrum in the last year, including product range, product knowledge, staff training, customer care, marketing and promotion, window and product display, as well as commitment to the gift sector.

The 2017 finalists are

Barkers Home, Northallerton Bentalls, Kingston upon Thames

Fenwick Colchester

Fenwick Newcastle

Rossiters, Bath

John Lewis, Oxford Street

Strickland & Holt, Yarm

Category sponsored by "Yankee Candle is proud to sponsor the prestigious Best Department Store Award 2017 and celebrate their ability to provide shoppers with the opportunity to buy everything they need in one place, from clothing and cosmetics to appliances and homeware.� www.yankeecandle.co.uk The Greats Awards 2017

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Proud sponsor of

The London Stationery Show is the most important UK event for buyers of writing and paper products, and part of National Stationery Week.

Design led, fashion-forward notebooks, diaries, pens and social stationery make wonderful gifts. Don’t miss out on a great sales opportunity.

Support nationalstationeryweek.com

It’s where fashion meets function.

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

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Best Non-Specialist Retailer of Gifts Criteria: Nominees are independent or multiple retailers for whom gifts are not their main product focus.

Nominees have shown excellence in all areas across the retail spectrum over the last year, including a range of gifts, product knowledge, customer service, shop environment, marketing and display.

The 2017 finalists are

The Barn at The Hollies, Little Budworth

Brodie Countryfare, Brodie by Forres

Oliver Bonas (60 stores)

Steamer Trading Cookshop (37 stores)

Tebay and Gloucester Services, Orton and Whaddon Category sponsored by "The London Stationery Show is the most important UK event for buyers of writing and paper products, and part of National Stationery Week.Design led, fashion-forward notebooks, diaries, pens and social stationery make wonderful gifts. Don’t miss out on a great sales opportunity." www.stationeryshow.co.uk www.nationalstationeryweek.com The Greats Awards 2017 www.worldstationeryday.com

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Best Lifestyle OR Homewares Retailer of Gifts Criteria: This award is open to all gift retailers, independents or multiples, for whom gifts are part of a wider product mix ranging from fashion to furniture.

The 2017 finalists are

About Living, Glasgow, Newton Mearns and Perth

Gautier Lifestyle, Chigwell

Lily's Attic, Witney

Loch Leven’s Larder, Kinross

Scape Interiors West, Bournemouth

Time & Tide, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Berwick

Category sponsored by "At NPW, we pride ourselves in offering innovative and entertaining gift solutions for any moment because let’s face it, life should be FUN! Birthdays, barbeques or to simply enjoy warmer weather; we’ve got everything needed to add side-splitting silliness! Every day is a party with NPW." www.npwgifts.com The Greats Awards 2017

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"Sterling silver adjustable rings, made with real flowers"

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Shrieking Violet

www.flowerjewellery.com

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Best Gift Retailer Of Jewellery and Fashion Accessories Criteria: Open to all independent or multiple retailers who have, over the last year, demonstrated commitment and knowledge of jewellery that retails within a gift retail environment.

The 2017 finalists are

Bijou, Elgin

Cadeaux, Leeds

Melbury Gallery, Sherborne and Dorchester

MiMi (hw), Hartley Wintney

The Olive Tree, Londonderry

Orange Tree, Topsham

Category sponsored by "Shrieking Violet, an award-winning jewellery brand, is proud to sponsor the Best Gift Retailer of Jewellery and Fashion Accessories award. After winning The Giftware Association’s Gift of the Year 2017 award, we realise the huge boost receiving such an accolade can bring. We wish the finalists the best of luck!" www.flowerjewellery.com

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2017_A5 Great Awards Advert-PRINT.pdf

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Design-led room decorations & accessories . . .

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Proud to be sponsoring

BEST GARDEN CENTRE RETAILER OF GIFTS 2017

. . . for Christmas & all year round!

Find out more at www.premierdec.com

PREMIER DECORATIONS LIMITED • PREMIER HOUSE • BRAINTREE ROAD • RUISLIP • MIDDLESEX HA4 0EJ • UK

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Best Garden Centre Retailer Of Gifts Criteria: This award was open to all independent or multiple garden centres. Nominees have demonstrated commitment and knowledge of giftware retailed within a garden centre over the last year.

The 2017 finalists are

Bents Garden Centre, Glazebury

Cannon Hall Garden Centre, Cawthorne

Frosts, Woburn Sands

Garsons, Esher and TitchďŹ eld

The Mains of Drum, Banchory

Wentworth Garden Centre, Wentworth

Category sponsored by "The Greats Gift Retailers Awards 2017 recognises and rewards companies that go that extra mile to deliver superior in-store shopping experiences. Premier Decorations is delighted to join them by sponsoring Best Garden Retailer of Gifts for 2017.

Congratulations to all of the shortlisted companies – the Premier team looks forward to working with you all in 2017." www.premierdec.com

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A world of animal companions We are specialist suppliers of animal themed toys and gifts for the zoo, aquarium, leisure and promotional markets. We stock a huge variety of animals from sloths to moths, ants to elephants and pretty much everything in between.

We’re proud to sponsor The Great Gift Retailer Awards 2017.

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Best Museum or Visitor Attraction Gift Shop Criteria: Open to all independent or multiple museums, heritage outlets or visitor attractions. All contenders were required to demonstrate commitment and knowledge of giftware within a visitor attraction over the last year.

The 2017 finalists are

The Shakespeare Birthday Trust Gift Shop, Stratford-upon-Avon

Stonehenge Gift Shop, Stonehenge

The University of Glasgow Gift Shop, Glasgow

V & A Gift Shops, London

The View From The Shard, London

ZSL London Zoo, London

Category sponsored by "Ravensden specialise in supplying animal themed toys and gifts to the leisure, retail and promotional markets across Europe. We are proud to be associated with The Great Gift Retailer Award for 2017 with the Best Museums or Visitor Attraction Gift Shop category. We wish all the finalists the best of luck." www.ravensden.co.uk

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Best In-Store or Window Display Criteria: Window and/or in store displays which are either specific to one product range, or of a more generic nature, which demonstrate originality and maximise visual impact.

The 2017 finalists are

Antique Rose, Wokingham

Jo Amor, Tiverton

Love Thy Interiors, Thirsk

Paper Tiger, Edinburgh

Rossiters, Bath

Secret Messages Interiors, Buckingham

Category sponsored by “Display is what makes the difference between good sales, and great sales. It’s what draws the customer into the shop and makes them buy when they get inside. Gisela Graham is delighted to sponsor the award that fosters this essential part of the retailer's armoury.” www.giselagraham.co.uk

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Great Awards Brochure Advert.pdf

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15/02/2017

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MATT SEWELL RANGE COME AND VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE EXCITING GIFTS! 0208 542 4836

www.giftrepublic.com

@GiftRepublic

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GiftRepublicLtd

sales@giftrepublic.com /Gift Republic

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Best Online or Mail Order Gift Retailer Criteria: Open to all online retailers of gifts, mail order gift catalogues or a high street gift retailer who also have an online presence or publishes a mail order catalogue retailing gifts.

The 2017 finalists are

Firebox www.ďŹ rebox.com

Gifts From Handpicked www.giftsfromhandpicked.co.uk

IWOOT www.iwantoneofthose.com

JD Williams www.jdwilliams.co.uk

MenKind www.menkind.co.uk

The Present Finder www.thepresentďŹ nder.co.uk

Category sponsored by "At Gift Republic we have a passion for fun, innovative gifting. We make everything from unique one-off novelty products such as the Llama Duster to award nominated homeware ranges such as Matt Sewell and Ecologie. We love to sponsor the Best Online or Mail Order Gift Retailer category as we like to promote the success of others." www.giftrepublic.com

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FINGERS, TOES AND EVERYTHING CROSSED FOR ALL THE FINALISTS!

PROUD SPONSORS OF THE GREATS T: 01702 815016

|

www.unknownink.co.uk

Unknown Ink - An exciting new company by Brainbox Candy

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Best Retailer Initiative Criteria: Open to all retailers who have undertaken a specific development or initiative that was instrumental in increasing retail growth of gift products, such as through advertising, promotions, website activity, a staff training programme or a customer loyalty programme.

The 2017 finalists are

Chester Zoo

Maia Gifts, Glasgow

For its Never Forget fundraising campaign

For its Christmas advertising campaign

Maison Rustic, Wokingham

Mantons, Port Erin

For its welcome box for new home owners

For its craft design competition

Papyrus, Glasgow

The Old School Beauly, Beauly

For its Love Bomb emoji event

For its Hermione Granger scarf social media promotion

Category sponsored by “It’s well publicized of late, that retailers need to offer customers a ‘shopping experience’, in order to compete with the convenience of shopping online. One way of achieving this is by running original and creative retail initiatives. We applaud the retailers who offer such initiatives and we wish the finalists in this category and all others the very best of luck.”

The Greats Awards 2017 Mark Williams & Ben Hickman Unknown Ink Ltd www.unknownink.co.uk

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CONGRATULATIONS! Best of luck to all you wonderful finalists.

PG Live 2017 is delighted to be sponsoring The Greats because we know that, like us, you love greeting cards.

All finalists will also receive a £50 voucher to spend with any of our fabulous exhibitors at the show!

“PG Live is certainly our favourite trade show of the whole year and we wouldn’t want to ever miss it! The show really is a fantastic showcase of brilliant publishers. The attention to detail, the atmosphere and the way we are all looked after is second to none among trade shows.”

Miles Robinson, partner, House of Cards

PG Live 2017 is the UK’s leading launchpad for thousands of original designs and fantastic new card collections. Book your free tickets now to receive your free show preview and start planning your visit! www.progressivegreetingslive.com

PG Live 2017

Tuesday 6 - Wednesday 7 June Business Design Centre, London

BOOK YOUR TICKET NOW!

+44 (0) 1635 297070 @PGLiveLondon www.progressivegreetingslive.com

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BEST service to the independent retailer Criteria: This incredible award recognises and rewards those gift suppliers in the service they provide to independent retailers.

The 2017 finalists are (in alphabetical order)

Ashleigh & Burwood Carte Blanche East of India Enesco Gisela Graham Joe Davies Lesser & Pavey Sass & Belle Widdop And Co. Yankee Candle Roll of Honour Although they did not reach the finals for this award, the following companies are worthy of recognition, as independent gift retailers really value the service that they provide.

11. Carrie Elspeth 12. Heaven Sends 13. Really Good 14. Wild & Wolf 15. Portmierion Group 16. Xystos 17. Dartington Crystal 18. Wax Lyrical 19. Premier Decorations 20. Boxer Gifts 21. Parlane 22. Gift Republic 23. History & Heraldry 24. Ravensden 25. Richard Lang

26. Heathcote & Ivory 27. Xpressions 4 U 28. Straits Trading 29. Junction 18 30. Puckator 31. Sifcon International 32. Instant Gifts International 33. Libra 34. Nemesis Now 35. Sea Gems 36. Country Baskets (CB Imports) 37. Container Group Buying (CGB) 38. Heart of the Country 39. Fenton China/Global Designs 40. Robert Harrop

Category sponsored by "Bringing the creative and artistic talents of the greeting card industry together under one roof, PG Live 2017 is the UK's leading launchpad for thousands of fantastic new collections. With a packed exhibitor list of the top 280+ publishers, designers and suppliers, the show is essential for anyone who is part of the vibrant greeting card sector." www.progressivegreetingslive.co.uk

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Join us as a retailer member and we can help you prosper, whilst saving you time and money. Whether you need debt recovery, HR advice or just everyday questions we are here to help: • • • • •

A wealth of advice Merchant Services to save you money Raising your profile Utility Services Connecting with suppliers

This list is not exhaustive: we can help with every aspect of your business. Visit our website for more information, or any of our social media channels.

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Honorary Achievement Award Criteria: This very special award is to be presented to an individual who has contributed greatly to the UK gift industry. PG&H invited nominations from across the industry, with the worthy winner coming from the retail or supply side of the trade.

Who will be this year’s hero?

Winner 2005

Winner 2006

Winner 2007

Winner 2008

Shirley Frost designGAP

Phillip Lewis Collectables

David Metcalfe formerly chairman and md of TPS

Joy Jordan formerly of Focal Point

Winner 2009

Winner 2010

Winner 2011

Winner 2012

Keith Entwistle formerly md, Caspari

Bryan Parry founder, Bryn Parry Studios, co-founder, Help For Heroes

Winner 2013

Winner 2014

Winner 2015

Winner 2016

Gisela Graham, founder and md of Gisela Graham

Ken Johnson, md of Enesco Europe

Mike Burgess, md of Parlane

Andrew Illingworth sales director of Widdop and Co.

Martin, Sam and Julian Oliver Tress, founder Rayner (pictured is and md, Martin Rayner), Oliver Bonas directors, Lakeland

Category sponsored by “The Giftware Association is delighted to sponsor the Honorary Achievement Award which celebrates those who have given their everything to the world of giftware. Championing entrepreneurs, innovative designers and inspirational leaders and those going beyond their own sphere of business to help others, making a significant difference to the world around them."

The Greats Awards 2017 www.ga-uk.org

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on to Su lin the bs c e at new rib PG s e Bu flas zz h .n et From the team behind Progressive Greetings Worldwide, PG Live, The Retas and The Henries, PGBuzz.net has launched as the new online central resource for the greeting card sector online...

News, Editorial and Content Opportunities: Jakki Brown Joint md & editorial director jakkib@max-publishing.co.uk

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Twice weekly newsflash delivered to over 9000 inboxes

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Regularly updated jobs-board

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The very latest news, views, articles and analysis

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Digital issues of Progressive Greetings Worldwide

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Dedicated pages for the GCA and The Ladder Club

Warren Lomax warren@max-publishing.co.uk

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Up to date information on PG Live, The Retas, and The Henries

Tracey Arnaud traceya@max-publishing.co.uk

Michelle Board News editor michelleb@max-publishing.co.uk

Advertising, Recruitment and Sponsorship Opportunities:

News • PG Worldwide • Interviews • PG Live • Newsflash • Events Gallery • Jobs • Ladder Club • GCA

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THE GREATS AWARDS ARE ORGANISED AND OWNED BY

UNITED HOUSE

NORTH ROAD

LONDON

N7 9DP

T: 020 7700 6740

W: WWW.MAXPUBLISHING.CO.UK