Irish Gift Retailer by Colin Murphy

Gifts, Home Accessories, Stationery, Tabletop, Crafts Vol. 3 - Issue 4

• Showcase Ireland 2010 • Furniture & Home Accessories Fair 2010 • International Toy Fair Nürnberg 2010 • Christmasworld 2010 • Spring Fair Birmingham 2010 • Ambiente 2010

Products from Bunbury Boards.

Jewellery from The Cat & The Moon.

Fashion Jewellery from Timeless Irish Treasures.

2, 12, 14 & 16 Markets & Fairs

21 Asian Goods

Ambiente 12-16 February 2010 The Furniture & Home Accessories Fair 21-24 March 2010 Christmasworld 29 January - 2 February 2010 International Toy Fair 7-9 February 2010

10th London Asia Expo 25-27 January 2010.

22-26 Spring Fair 2010 A preview of some of the exhibitors at

4-11 Showcase Preview

Springfair 2010.

A preview of some of the exhibitors at Showcase 2010.

10 Bunbury Boards

6 Franz Design

Every Board Tells a Story.

New season products from Franz Design.

Premier Publishing Limited can accept no responsibility for the accuracy of contributors’ articles or statements appearing in this magazine. Any views or opinions expressed are not necessarily those of Premier Publishing and its Directors. No responsibility for loss or distress occasioned to any person acting or refraining from acting as a result of the material in this publication can be accepted by the authors, contributors, editor and publisher. A reader should access separate advice when acting on specific editorial in this publication!

Managing Director: Colin Murphy Sales Director: Ronan McGlade Editor: Mike Rohan Business Development Manager: Susan Doyle Production Manager: Susan Doyle Senior Sales Executive Paul Lees and Advertising Susan Doyle

Irish Gift Retailer is published by Premier Publishing Limited,

Design, Origination and Separations by Fullpoint Design (057) 86 80873

51 Park West, Enterprise Centre, Nangor Road,Dublin 12

Printed by W&G Baird Ltd.

Tel: + 353 1 6120880 Fax: + 353 1 6120881 E-Mail: susan@prempub.com Website: www.irishgiftretailer.com

Annual Subscription (UK and Ireland) £95 Overseas Subscription £115

IRISH GIFT RETAILER Volume 3 Issue 4

markets and fairs

2010 The world’s biggest consumer goods fair

mbiente 2010: will have a new exciting look! The world’s biggest consumer goods fair is to be restructured and turned through 180 degrees. Furthermore the fairs Living and Giving are going to share the new built Hall 11 in the western part of the Exhibition Centre. With over 4,500 exhibitors and 180,000 square metres of net floor space, Ambiente is not just the largest consumer goods trade fair in the world, but it offers a complete spectrum of products and concepts from various different sectors. The trade audience at Ambiente also has a strong International profile. Almost half the visitors to Frankfurt come from outside Germany - from New Zealand to Canada and from Chile to Russia. Our strength is our global reach. Everything under one roof in 2010: the three leading world trade fairs, Dining, Giving and Living are making Ambiente a unique International consumer goods event. At Ambiente everything revolves around tableware, kitchenware and household goods, gift items and decorations as well as home and furnishing accessories. In February 2009, 135,000 trade visitors from all over the world made their way to the Frankfurt fair in order to consolidate their business relationships. Because of the new concept for the halls, the exhibition area for Ambiente 2010 will take a 180 degree turn – thus enabling exhibitors to present their products in an even more clearly structured and better targeted framework.

Dining Dining is the leading trade fair for the table, kitchen, housewares and luxury food sectors. This is where manufacturers of glass, porcelain, ceramic and household articles, as well as cutlery and small electrical appliances, reveal their latest products for the coming year. Dining will occupy Halls 1 to 6 at the eastern end of the Exhibition Centre.

Giving At Ambiente, the International trade will show the best gift ideas in Giving. Clearly structured, Giving – the leading fair for presents embraces a broad spectrum of products with Gifts Unlimited to be found in Halls 9.1 to 9.3, 10.0 and 11.1.

Living The meeting place for the interior design sector and embraces everything from furniture, home accessories and home textiles to avant-garde design. Living will occupy Halls 8.0, 9.0, 10.1, 10.2 and 11.0 at the western end of the site for the first time.

Trends for 2010 at Ambiente Reinforcing the tendency, which has already been clearly demonstrated in previous years: products must, above all, be authentic and represent quality and durability. At the same time, 2010 will finally see the back of the assumption that design is involved exclusively in the high-end segment. Good design needs to be one thing above all else: suitable for everyday use and made for “real” people with a “normal” life. DATE: 12 - 16 February 2010 VENUE: Frankfurt am Main TEL: +44 (0) 1784 415950 FAX: +44 (0) 1784 415951 E-MAIL: info@ireland.messefrankfurt.com WEB: www.ambiente.messefrankfurt.com VISITOR REGISTRATION: www.ukfrankfurt.co.uk

IRISH GIFT RETAILER Volume 3 Issue 4

showcase preview

Introducing “Creative Island” New Exciting Features Announced for Showcase 2010

reland’s leading craft makers and designers are gearing up to show their work to buyers from around the world at Showcase, Ireland’s creative expo, which takes place in the RDS, Dublin from 24th-27th January, 2010. Now in its 34th year, Showcase is recognised as the best place in the world to find unique products from Ireland's leading craft makers and designers. The four-day initiative attracts more than 450 exhibitors and over 5,000 domestic and overseas buyers. Irish creativity has always been at the heart of Showcase and 2010 sees the exciting launch of Creative Island, an exclusive new hotspot of beautifully crafted products imagined, designed and made in Ireland. The designers and makers in this new inspiration zone were successfully selected from a wide field during a lengthy, independent judging process for their creativity, innovation, craftsmanship and branding. Featuring over 70 of the very best Irish craft makers and designers, Creative Island is sure to generate a huge buzz amongst buyers from around the world who

Millinery by Wendy Louise Knight

Jewellery by Juvi Designs

attend Showcase 2010 The Central Main Hall will contain exhibits by more than 200

Handbag by Cathy Prendergast, Inti Leather

IRISH GIFT RETAILER Volume 3 Issue 4

G Hand Crafted in County Carlow G Made from Sustainable and traceable Irish Hardwoods G Only trees that have died naturally, felled with a license or felled for forest management are used to make a Bunbury Board G Each product has its own unique log number which can be used to print a tree report on Bunbury boards fun interactive web site G No two boards are the same

Contact Details Bunbury Boards The Lisnavagh Timber Project Lisnavagh, Rathvilly, Co Carlow Phone: 059 9161784 Fax: 059 9161475 E mail: sales@bunburyboards.comWeb: www.bunburyboards.com

Cubby Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connor Ltd. Diamond Specialists

showcase preview

Knitwear by Fisherman out of Ireland

leading Irish brands and makers while the County Enterprise Stands, at the entrance to Shelbourne Hall, will feature many first-time exhibitors, thus allowing visitors to 'spot the future' in craft design. In a new departure for Showcase, an Artisan Food Area will allow quality Irish food producers to exhibit giftable food products to buyers from home and abroad. The eagerly-anticipated Showcase Awards will take place on the second day of Showcase – Monday 25th January – with honours given to the best products at the four-day event including Best Craftsmanship and Best Overall Product. Attendees will benefit from a special Seminar Programme offering presentations by leading experts in, amongst others, branding, business development, e-commerce, merchandising and trends forecasting while a special Buyers Suite will allow buyers the opportunity to network, relax and avail of pertinent information on craft. Navigation around Showcase will be easy, with clear signage and highly-visible, colour-coded areas planned to ensure an effortless and enjoyable experience for visitors. Showcase takes place in the RDS (Main Hall), Dublin from Sunday 24th January to Wednesday 27th January, 2009. Further details are available on www.showcaseireland.com

Homeware design by Belleek

Bracelet by Elaine Sarah Comerford

About Showcase Showcase is Ireland’s creative expo featuring quality design products from the country’s leading craft makers and designers. The initiative attracts more than 450 exhibitors and 5,000 buyers from around the world. Showcase is organised by Showcase Ireland Events Ltd. on behalf of the Crafts Council of Ireland and is promoted internationally by Enterprise Ireland.

Mothflame02 - Moth to a Flame Candles

IRISH GIFT RETAILER Volume 3 Issue 4

showcase preview

Design Fit for a King F

Franz Caffrey to

ranz Caffrey, Ireland's leading designer and sculptor is set to launch brand new collections of contemporary Giftware for 2010. An eclectic mix of contemporary and historical design fit for any King or “Queens” Castle. Franz will launch three new exciting,electric collections for January 2010 along with new additions to current collections.Even in these difficult times,Franz still manages to be very progressive with product devolpment,creating collections for different segments of the market from various mediums. Duncan Stewert of About The House says”there is a unique style and character to all of Franz’s work and a very clear pattern and versatility to how he applies it.You can design your whole living area around his design’s and when he knits his timbers together he creates a wonderful harmony.

Launch New

Collections at Showcase RDS, January 2010

About the artist: Franz Caffrey was born in Athy and first started sculpting at the tender age of seven. His abiding love of natural materials has defined him and his highly coveted pieces are among prized collections by President Mary McAleese and Minister Brian Cowen to name but a few. For more information and pictures contact: Franz Designs: 057 86 61812 email: info@franzdesigns.com

IRISH GIFT RETAILER Volume 3 Issue 4

showcase previews

'All That Glisters' S

ue Bowden at 'All That Glisters' is showing their souvenir and gift range with many additions. These are tastefully packaged and carded items mainly pendants and earrings that usually retail for under 20 euro. New to this range are brightly coloured birthstone earrings and pendants retailing for less than 15 euro. These will be the best value impulse buys for 2010. Sue Bowden's new designer range for 'All That Glisters' shows her love and understanding of

illarney Crystal is a dynamic and innovative crystal company, renowned for quality and design. We bring you a range of crystal and giftware

aurence Carey Agencies will be showing an extensive range of the Ashleigh & Burwood Fragrance Lamps at Showcase 2010 Stand D79 Main Hall. In 2009 given these testing times the Fragrance Lamps have sold exceptionally well. All products are tastefully packaged and point of sale for retailers has been excellent also included are exquisite designed bags which complete the perfect present for

gemstones and crystals. With sensitive attention the collection combines the best fiery agates, bright coloured gemstones and crystals with black onyx and an array of unusual pearls. The resulting neck pieces and bracelets and earrings fall into two areas, those that are refined and sophisticated and those that are playful and funky. Both add drama and personality to the wearer. As for Sues traditional Connemara and Kilkenny jewellery expect a whole range of new designs and many, even the celtic ones, with a contemporary edge and some using

that can be used and enjoyed in the home, with friends and with family. Our prices typically range from â&#x201A;Ź5 to â&#x201A;Ź50. We have an exciting new range of candleholders, vases and stemware that will launch in January at Showcase 2010 in the RDS. These unique pieces represent a new departure for Killarney Crystal in design. The concept

MOTHERS DAY. The Fragrance Lamps are based on a century old concept designed by French pharmaceutical chemist. Once the flame is extinguished, the hot catalytic stone purifies the air by destroying odours and airborne pollutants as room air is drawn over the stone. Simultaneously, the lamp disperses the unique Ashleigh & Burwood fragrance into the air to fragrance the room. Also Showing on the Laurence Carey Agencies stand PURE JEWELLERY by Coppercraft. This product is MAGNETIC

he idea for Mad4Hats was conceived and started in county Wexford, Ireland, by Patsy Flood O'Connor. From small beginnings in 1998, we have steadily built a loyal clientele all over the world. Our work force consists entirely of local knitters and stitchers in the area whose skills allow them to work from their own homes at their own pace. We source all the materials we can from Ireland, and are proud to have earned the "Guaranteed Irish" seal for our commitment. Age-old traditions of Irish hand-knitting and crochet combine with innovative style and design

Swarovski crystal. 'All that Glisters' supply craft and gift shops, museums and heritage outlets as well as good boutiques and jewellers in Ireland Europe and the USA. A new catalogue is available on request. Visit 'All That Glisters' at Showcase Dublin- Stand B24- On the balcony as usual. All That Glisters Tel: +353 (0)56 7724081. Fax: +353 (0)56 7724082 Email: allthatglisters@eircom.net Web:www.allthatglisters.ie Made in Ireland

behind them is to facilitate crystal being used in a casual home setting while still focusing very much on the aesthetic qualities of well crafted crystal pieces.

Jewellery therapeutic to the wearer. Visit Laurence Carey Agencies stand; Jan 24-27 Showcase Ireland ,RDS Dublin ,Main Hall Stand D79. For further information Email: careylarr@eircom.net

to create products that are attractive, comfortable, and unmistakeably Irish. Mad 4 Hats Patsy Flood O'Connor Ballygarvan, Gusserane, New Ross, Co. Wexford, Ireland. tel: +353 51 562329 mobile: +353 87 240 6199 Website: www.mad4hats.ie Mad4Hats will be exhibiting at Showcase, stand no:D132

IRISH GIFT RETAILER Volume 3 Issue 4

Bunbury Boards

product news

s part of The L i s n a v a g h Collection, Bunbury Boards were first introduced in 2008, receiving a great response from the Irish retail home and tourist markets. Quick to capitalise on the versatile nature of the product, Bunbury Boards are now sold in Ireland, England, Denmark and the United States. Bunbury Boards are available as placemats, coasters, chopping and cheese boards, all hand made from a variety of stunning Irish hardwoods. Designed to be both practical and beautiful, Bunbury Boards are used for bread, cheese, chopping, carving, hors d'oeuvres platters or eye- catching table top centre pieces. William Bunbury was looking for a way to breathe new life into fallen timber on Lisnavagh Estate when he created The Lisnavagh Timber Project. The Lisnavagh Collection stemmed from this timber project and has been making a welcome contribution to the estate ever since. Hardwood for The Lisnavagh Collection comes from the Lisnavagh Estate and similar estates all over Ireland. Trees are not acceptable to The Lisnavagh Colletion unless they have died naturally, been windblown or felled with a licence for forest management. Bunbury Board’s are perfect gifts for anyone with a keen eye for practical beauty – and not only are they beautiful but they appeal to the ever growing eco conscious. Each board comes with its own unique tree report, which can be downloaded via the Bunbury Boards interactive website. Log onto www.bunburyboards.com and enter your Bunbury Board’s unique code to unfold the story behind your Bunbury Board. A traceability report can be printed out to show a picture of the actual tree or the location that the tree hails from, explaining why the tree died and what has been done to replace it.

If you are interested in becoming a stockist or to learn more about our Bunbury Boards, please contact Dena Nolan: E: dena@bunburyboards.com or telephone + 353 (0) 59 9161784.

IRISH GIFT RETAILER Volume 3 Issue 4

furniture and home accessories

New Products, New Ideas… Set yourself apart from your competitors at the Furniture & Home Accessories Fair

e look forward to welcoming you to the Furniture & Home Accessories Fair - Ireland’s flagship event for the furniture, interiors and gift trade. Over 4,000 trade visitors are expected to descend on the RDS, Dublin for the 2010 Show which will find leading Irish and International suppliers such as Blue Bone, Minster Giftware, West Decor, Duncan Rugs, Framanc, Furniture Link, TCS, Lifestyle and Julian Bowen to name just a few displaying their very latest products. There are many exclusive new ranges and designs that will give your business a competitive advantage and which you will not find at any other Show in Ireland. Design will be at the heart of the Furniture & Home Accessories Fair with the DIT Student Showcase. In collaboration with Dublin Institute of Technology (DIT) School of Art, Design and Printing we will present a unique showcase of work from current students and recent graduates from the BA Design (Furniture & Interiors). The Showcase will include work which was featured at the recent Designers Block which was part of London Design Week. This inspiring display of the hottest young furniture and interior design talent highlights the huge potential in partnering educational and commercial sectors to deliver an innovative and dynamic showcase of Irish products. The Furniture & Home Accessories Fair continues to be the best and most cost effective option for sourcing product in Ireland in 2010 and is an unmissable opportunity to pick up fresh ideas for the season ahead with NEW collections of contemporary and traditional products. The Fair takes place at Simmonscourt, RDS in the heart of Dublin, from: Sunday 21st March to Wednesday 24th March. Opening times: Sunday – Tuesday 10am-6pm, and Wednesday 10am-4pm. For more including a video of a recent Show visit www.irishfurniturefair.com. With space rates from only 99 per m2 the Furniture & Home Accessories Fair offers suppliers the best value of any Show in UK or Ireland. For visitor enquiries contact Lorraine Walsh on 00353 (0) 1 288 8821, lorraine@exhibitions ireland.com and for stand enquiries call Elish Bull on 00353 (0) 1 288 8821, elish@ exhibitionsireland.com IRISH GIFT RETAILER Volume 3 Issue 4

markets and fairs

2010:

a more modern and innovative exhibition

hrismasworld 2010: a more modern and innovative exhibition incorparating a brand new Hall 11! The product groups will be restuctured and exhibitors will present their ranges in six exhibition halls, with two special areas providing supplementary information and ideas. Christmasworld - the World of Event Decoration, is the world’s leading trade fair for festive decorations, presenting the trends and innovations for all festivities of the year – from Christmas, New Year and St. Valentine’s Day to Easter, summer parties and Halloween. The unique range of products on show makes Christmasworld the world’s foremost order and trend platform for the wholesale and retail trades, for boutiques, florists, interior furnishing specialists, designers and decorators. The 2009 exhibition attracted 965 exhibitors from 38 countries presented new products and trends for all festivals of the year. The main product groups on display included; Christmas decorations, annual and seasonal festive decorations, ribbons and wrapping, candles and fragrances, florists' requisites, festive lighting, fireworks and party items. The huge range of products attracted more than 30,000 visitors from across the globe.

Spirit of Celebration: Carnival in Venice ‘The spirit of celebration’ event series in the ‘Galleria’ is a popular source of inspiration. Every year, Christmasworld presents a different country with festivals and customs typical of that nation. And in 2010 with ‘Carnival in Venice’ the focus will be on Italy. Visitors can look forward to an interesting presentation with imaginative masks and colourful costumes.

Trends for 2010: Especially handcrafted authenticity, modern naturalness and a colourful style mix are on trend for next year’s festive season. The Christmasworld decorating trends for 2010/2011 will show which colours, materials and event motifs are going to be highlights in the coming season. Designers from the bora.herke style agency, commissioned by the top international fair for event decoration, identified four themes – "Authentic", "Optimistic", "Eccentric" and "Graphic". Hall 9.0 will showcase the latest trends and product recommendations.

Running parallel to Christmasworld: Messe Frankfurt will host three parallel trade fairs during Christmasworld; Paperworld, Beautyworld and Hair & Beauty. This will enable visitors to reap the benefits of many appealing synergies and product ranges. In 2009 the four exhibitions attracted an outstanding 101,500 visitors worldwide and together will present the first major International consumer goods event of the year.

DATE: VENUE: TEL: FAX: E-MAIL: WEB: VISITOR

29.1 – 2.2.2010 Frankfurt am Main +44 (0) 1784 415950 +44 (0) 1784 415951 info@ireland.messefrankfurt.com www.christmasworld.messefrankfurt.com REGISTRATION: www.ukfrankfurt.co.uk

IRISH GIFT RETAILER Volume 3 Issue 4

markets & fairs

61st Spielwarenmesse International Toy Fair Nürnberg

he International Toy Fair is the world’s leading fair for toys, and hobby and leisure-time articles. All the market leaders will be present once again when the toy professionals from all over the world gather together in Nürnberg in February 2010. The fair, which is open exclusively to the specialist trade, provides a unique combination of a huge product range, targeted industry information, and numerous networking opportunities. The best reason for visiting • Approximately 2,700 exhibitors from 59 countries • More than 75,000 specialist visitors from 115 countries • 160,000 sq. m display space with approximately 1 million products in 11 product groups • All the industry’s market leaders • 1st Global Toy Summit • The unique combination of brand manufacturers and mass articles • THE trend barometer with approx. 70,000 new products • Free special shows and expert presentations for ideas on boosting sales in the trade

and registration is not necessary. The Toy Business Forum 2010 covers the following topics: Friday, 05 February 2010 Saturday, 06 February 2010 Sunday, 07 February 2010 Monday, 08 February 2010 Tuesday, 09 February 2010

Worldwide toy trends Profitable supplementary ranges Products for babies and infants Marketing & PR PoS & store design

1st Global Toy Summit The 1st Global Toy Summit will take place on 08 and 09 February 2010 during the International Toy Fair. Both exhibitors and visitors are looking forward to a varied programme of presentations on current topics and trends. Exchange information with experts and industry insiders. You will receive sound ideas and information which you can put into everyday practice immediately.

New products and innovations The International Toy Fair with its innovation concept is recognized throughout the world as a platform for launching new products on the market. The InnovationCenter is the optimum orientation aid in the search for new products at the fair. See and discover in the InnovationCenter: •The new products and trends for the coming year •The winners of the ToyAward 2010 The future and the present meet each other in the LicenseCenter: this is where future trends meet the current top licenses. In addition, the International Trend Selection awaits you with the most promising toy licenses from important country markets – presented by our worldwide media partners. Experience the LicenseCenter on the floor of the InnovationCenter in Hall 4.

Toy Business Forum: Expert knowledge for the practical Top speakers give practical tips for the trade at the Toy Business Forum in the InnovationCenter in hall 4. All presentations are free

Special area Baby´sWorld With a special area on the subject of baby articles, the International Toy Fair is taking into account the huge increase in manufacturers of articles for babies. Baby’sWorld presents the complete bandwidth of play items for babies and infants together in Hall 2, and provides a central meeting point for purchasers and specialist dealers in this branch.

New product area: School Articles, Stationery, Way to School Because of its great success and the increasing demand, the special area 'Way to School' is being further developed and enlarged in the coming Fair to cover the product group 'School Articles, Stationery, Way to School'. As well as domestic participation, international exhibitors will also be presenting themselves for the first time in the section in Hall 9.

IRISH GIFT RETAILER Volume 3 Issue 4

product news

EWE WILL BE AMAZED, WE ARE! ‘

Thomas Joseph’ continues to have phenomenal success. Shows in 2009 generated orders exceeding expectation. Morrigan Ltd implemented contingency for a rough trading year but this did not happened. Why is Thomas Joseph riding the storm? Maybe the answer is in the simplicity

and innocent humour or in the captions or naivety in the painting style of the artist? Now in the 6th Year the 2010 Desk Calendar continues to have international appeal, probably to ex-pat’s otherwise why would non-English speakers want, or even understand the ambiguous captions? Morrigan Limited does not know but have been told they ‘are just silly’, no matter what TJ moves on. Morrigan continue to seek new directions with product development and licensing relationships. The current license agreement with Ulster Weavers for kitchen textiles and vinyl bags continues to be mutually beneficial. New products for 2010 include trays and chopping boards for the kitchen market. Coasters continue to be popular with tourists and the domestic market. The addition of cross stitch patterns and key rings further enhance the ever popular

Art From Ireland – 2010 E

xciting ranges now available from Art From Ireland include: Jack Vettriano Cards and prints as well as the classic Susan O Hanlon range of occasional cards. Our strongest new collection is the day you were born key ring range, which appeals to young and old, male or female, visitor or local customer. There is one for everyone who visits your store. Sales patterns have shown that customers purchase more than one key ring at a time (RRP €2.95). We now offer four humorous ranges of cards; Spring Chicken is a best seller with supporting items including coasters, napkins, aprons, etc. New for 2010 is Oliver Preston, a classic country humour collection, adult humour without being rude. The Wild Card Company is a clever “Gerry Larson” style of cards. The cartoons have been published in Punch and other similar publications. Finally, well worth a look is our new French collection, the quality of illustrations plus the unique flap give this range an individual identity that no other range in the market place has, an ideal collection for independent stores. We look forward to seeing you on our stand D111, please refer to our advertisement on the inside back page.

IRISH GIFT RETAILER Volume 3 Issue 4

cards, magnets, prints, etc. The future for Thomas Joseph will be good. The future for Morrigan Ltd is to use their expertise to further develop international opportunity for Thomas Joseph and maybe even develop new directions for other painters.

Our aim is to design and produce high quality hand finished candles that will enhance any occasion and are at home in any environment from dining table to mantelpiece. From the principle of the ancient timepiece through to the fun appeal of Talking Candles they make an attractive addition to the home and an innovative gift for friends. • • • • • • • • • • • •

DINNER CANDLES RENNIE MACKINTOSH STYLE WEDDING CANDLES CELEBRATION UNITY CANDLES HAND FINISHED WEDDING ANNIVERSARY CANDLES CHRISTENING THE BIG BIRTHDAY RANGE SMALL PILLAR RANGE MEDIUM PILLARS CHRISTMAS CANDLES MEMORIAL CANDLE

Celtic Swirl 3,500 years before Christ our Celtic ancestors were carving these symbols in stone. The swirls, printed all around the candle are available in rich gold or stylish silver. Both gold and silver are also available in 9" pairs. Also available is an 8x3 Wedding candle with the scroll design in gold and silver. Personalised Wedding Candles Make your day even more special with personalised wedding candles - the great final touch. We can personalize candles with the names and dates. This is predominately used on our Wedding, Christening and Memorial candles. Celebration Candles Flowerdale House, Flowerdale, Ballinamallard, Co. Fermanagh, BT94 2AJ Tel.: +44(0)28 66 388 765 From ROI: 048 66 388 765 Fax: +44(0)28 66 388 002 From ROI: 048 66 388 002 E-mail: sales@candleireland.com Website: www.candleireland.com

product news

Woolenstocks have achieved cult status W

oolenstocks beautiful handcraft slippers and boots have achieved cult status. Adored by celebs and earth mothers alike,they are the ultimate ethical gift. Woolenstocks have brought in an array of new fabrics ranging from delicate satin

to lightweight felt, embroidery and fake fur. Customers love how they look and feel and for the fact that money generated by each pair goes straight back to the community where they were made. These slippers and boots are made from organic wool and fibre in the Himalayas by skilled artisans who take 40 hours to make each unique pair. A real treat for the feet highlighted by the indivisual care and attention poured into each pair. Woolenstocks have a character of their own, as unique as those who wear them. Your little one will love this warm and incredibly confy woolen slipper-boot. From woolenstocks the gorgeous design is unique, handcrafted in Himalayas, and features intricate embroidery it will be a truly fun way to begin and end each day.

Celebration Candlesâ&#x20AC;Ś for all occasions C

elebration Candles began in 1999 with a candle to celebrate and "Countdown" to the new millennium. From this first product the range has grown to include the occasions that we all celebrate christenings, birthdays, anniversaries, weddings. Our aim is to design and produce high quality hand finished candles that will enhance any occasion and are at home in any environment from dining table to mantelpiece. From the principle of the ancient timepiece through to the fun appeal of Talking Candles they make an attractive addition to the home and an innovative gift for friends. Our designs are printed directly onto the wax, they are not transfers or stickers. The candles we use are of the highest quality. They are non-drip, non-smoke and have extensive burn times. For example, the 9" dinner candle will burn for 91â &#x201E;2 hours under normal room conditions. All our products are produced and packaged in the UK. Our Display Stands are designed and manufactured by us to show the candles attractively. The stand has 7 aisles holding 12 pairs on each aisle. Each design is supplied in customised boxes holding 20 pairs. Our aim is to design and produce high quality hand finished candles that will enhance any occasion and are at home in any

environment from dining table to mantelpiece. From the principle of the ancient timepiece through to the fun appeal of Talking Candles they make an attractive addition to the home and an innovative gift for friends. Celebration Candles Flowerdale House, Flowerdale, Ballinamallard, Co. Fermanagh, BT94 2AJ Tel.: +44(0)28 66 388 765 From ROI: 048 66 388 765 Fax: +44(0)28 66 388 002 From ROI: 048 66 388 002 E-mail: sales@candleireland.com Website: www.candleireland.com

IRISH GIFT RETAILER Volume 3 Issue 4

markets & fairs

10TH LONDON ASIA EXPO

25·27 JANUARY 2010 NATIONAL HALL-OLYMPIA,LONDON

ow in its 10th year, LONDONASIA EXPO,the only trade show in London that presents competitively-priced Asian gifts, housewares and premium s will take place from Monday January 25th to Wednesday January 27th, 20 10 at London' s Olympia. lt is the first trade show on the important spring European buying circuit and over 6000 trade pro fessionals are expected to attend to source, compare and select from the over 250 companies based in Hong Kong, China, Korea, Macau, Malaysia, Taiwan and The Philippines that are exhibiting. The three day show will feature a broad selection of essential and everyday items, original and unusual products, with an emphasis on gifts, premiums, housewares, fashion acce ssories, costume j ewellery and apparel, gift packaging and giftwrap, toys, festive and seasonal decorations. Adverti sing premiums and souvenirs are set to be a highlight as the sourcing of 20 12 Olympic Games merchand ise draws closer.

• GIFTS + GADGETS + IT • PREMIUMS AND SOUVENIRS • FASHION JEWELLERY AND APPAREL • HOME WARES AND HOUSEHOLD GOODS • GIFT PACKAGING AND GIFfWRAP

Show: Dates: Venue: Press inquiries: Telephone: Fax: Contact details Admission:

LONDONASIA EXPO 25-27 January, 2010 National Hall, Olympi a, West London Iinda.chan@ken fair.hk + 852 3588 9688 + 852 3588 9668 cs@londonasiexpo .com: Trade buyers only

NEW FOR 2010 THE LONDON ASIA EXPO SOURCE BOOK - the new E-Magazine with original and fresh product ideas that will be on show. Please email cs@londonasiaexpo.com to request your copy. www.londonasiaexpo.com

• TOYS & GAMES

IRISH GIFT RETAILER Volume 3 Issue 4

spring fair preview

Spring Fair International 2010 grows as Gift & Home exhibitors fill the halls

n additional hall for Gift & Home exhibitors is to be added for Spring Fair International 2010 as confidence begins to return to the marketplace. With the show still more than three months away, Gift & Home suppliers have virtually filled halls 6, 7 and 20 and Hall 9 will now be used to extend this offering. Says Emap Connect Home & Gift managing director Louise Young: “When we planned the layout for Spring Fair 2010, it was based on the economic position at that time. Happily, we now appear to be turning the corner and all the indications from Autumn Fair International suggest that people want to spend money again. “This is encouraging exhibitors to increase the size of their stands and new companies to book space.” Because of its proximity to hall 8 – home to The Summerhouse – Spring Fair organiser Emap Connect is encouraging suppliers of contemporary gift and home product to exhibit in hall 9, which is also linked to Hall 5. Emap Connect Home & Gift event director, Roz McGuinness comments: “Hall 9 will be an integral part of the Gift & Home sector. We want to give the hall an international flavour and are currently talking to a number of well-known European brands that are looking for sites. But we are also keen to accommodate smaller businesses – who do not want

large stands – and give them a focal point within Hall 9.” McGuinness adds that the Gift & Home mix will create more crossover buying opportunities, saying: “A lot of gift companies now supply home products and a lot of home companies have diversified into giftware. Bringing them together means that visitors will be able to discover new products they weren’t necessarily looking for. “The whole design of the show is much better. We are extremely pleased with the success of this sector. We have sold ahead of our expectations in the Gift & Home halls, which has led us to extend the offering to Hall 9.” It is expected that Spring Fair’s Outdoor Living exhibitors in Hall 6 will benefit from crossover buying opportunities created by the presence of the newly-absorbed Totally Tools, Totally DIY and Totally Secure shows. Originally slated for Hall 9, these will now move to Hall 10. Totally Shows director James Murray comments: “The fact that Spring Fair International needs more space than expected is fantastic news for all of us, because more exhibitors means more visitors, and, as an added bonus, this move means there will now be a direct physical crossover point between the two shows that didn’t exist before.”

IRISH GIFT RETAILER Volume 3 Issue 4

spring fair

SPRING FORWARD… Spring Fair Birmingham Hall 7 D37/C38

rush off the winter cobwebs and pack away the reminders of the festive season to make way for the new 2010 spring fragrance launch from Yankee Candle®, the world’s leading home fragrancing manufacturer. Consumers will be looking for ways to brighten their days and bring back the feel good factor as the long awaited spring arrives and the new fragrances will do just that. Combine these fragrances into your existing displays or make a stand alone area merchandised with floral props to really make an eye catching display area in your stores. Beautiful Day™ is a reminder of how good life is with a happily enchanting mix of sunny fruits, pretty flowers and spicy herbs and Early Sunrise™ captures the scent of a new crisp and fresh day dawning with the clean lemony citrus scent with hints of ginger and tea. Encourage your customers to Drift Away™ - float away on the peaceful blue waters surrounded by lush woodlands or Ocean Blossom™ a fragrance reminiscent of a swim in a tropical lagoon, a blend of sea salt, lotus and water lily.

See them at Spring Fair Birmingham 2010 Hall D stand D37/C38. Available to order now from your Area Sales Manager, Customer Care on t: 01454 454 555 or online at www.yankeecandle.co.uk

HHJ Trading Ltd We are based in Dartford, Kent just on the outskirts of London. We are predominantly a UK Manufacturer of Framed Art, Mirrors and Multi Aperture Photo-Frames. Being a Manufacturer allows us to update our range on a regular basis and this is done every 6-8 weeks. We deliver our orders within 2 weeks and our carriage paid order is £500.00 You will find our complete portfolio of products on our web-site www.hhj-trading.co.uk

HHJ Trading Ltd HHJ House 10 A&B Whitehall Lane Erith, Kent, DA8 2DH 0208 309 4790 sales@hhj-trading.co.uk www.hhj-trading.co.uk

IRISH GIFT RETAILER Volume 3 Issue 4

spring fair preview

LAUNCHES BEIT DUDES: THE NEXT LEVEL IN TOYS CUSTOMISING BECOME YOUR OWN TOY AND PERSONALISE IT WITH IMAGES AND ACCESSORIES

looci, the specialist in spotting Limited Edition Designer Collectables, is pleased to introduce BEit Dude, an exclusive toy perfect gift for Youth Culture lovers and collectors exclusively distributed by Clooci.com BEit Dude is a vinyl figurine 6’’ tall designed with DIY customization in mind. The body has an urban vibe with cute short legs and elongated torso. The unique part about it is the picture slot on the face where you can insert images or drawings of yourself, your friends or even your dog – the options are truly endless. The toy also includes some accessories and a sheet of stickers with many designs you can stick onto the toy to really allow total customisation (see: http://www.clooci. com/beitdudes.php ) You can be a Knight wearing an helmet, a sword and a shield; a Rapper with a Urban style hat, an oversized clock with movable hands and a cute microphone; a Skateboarder with a fashionable hat, a backpack with movable hands and a trendy skateboard or a Cowboy, a Surfer and a Musician just with one plain character, ready to be personalized. BEit Dude definitely offers a twist on designer toys and they are now available on Clooci.com. For more information please visit www.clooci.com or contact press@clooci.com , tel. 0844 991 2464. Or Visit the BEit Dude Fan Page: http://www.facebook.com/ home.php?#/pages/BEit-Dude/102202979969?ref=ts

HHJ Trading Ltd

e are based in Dartford , Kent just on the outskirts of London. We are predominantly a UK Manufacturer of Framed Art, Mirrors and Multi Aperture Photo-Frames. Being a Manufacturer allows us to update our range on a regular basis and this is done every 6-8 weeks. We deliver our orders within 2 weeks and our carriage paid order is £500.00 You will find our complete portfolio of products on our web-site www.hhj-trading.co.uk We are delighted to be presenting our Spring 2010 Range at the Spring Fair Birmingham , you will find our 60m2 stand in Hall 6 Stand J28. We hope you will have time to visit the stand and allow us to present the range to you. As well as our UK produced products we also supply a fantastic range of Photo Frames that we import from the Far East , the range is wide and varied it is always in stock and can be delivered within one week on most occasions , it also includes the Eco Friendly range of Photo Frames Cellalin for more info please visit www.cellalin.com Steve, Chris and Tim are the 3 Directors of HHJ and we welcome the chance to work with you . HHJ Trading Ltd HHJ House, 10 A&B Whitehall Lane, Erith, Kent, DA8 2DH, 0208 309 4790 sales@hhj-trading.co.uk www.hhj-trading.co.uk (See our Advert on Page 24)

IRISH GIFT RETAILER Volume 3 Issue 4

spring fair preview

Nature inspires new decorative accessories from Enesco Gift

nspired by some of the most distinctive and much loved aspects of nature – by Lotus, Orchid, and Hydrangea flowers and by the delicate Butterfly – Enesco’s UK designers have created four imaginative designs for a new collection of Handcast home accessories. By exploring and combining the forms and

colours of the flowers in their various stages of bloom and of the different species of butterflies, the designers have produced a fresh and contemporary look for Handcast. Texture and interest is added by the separately moulded and hand painted floral and butterfly motifs that are mounted onto each piece. The suite of wooden accessories – a lidded box, wall and desk clocks and two photo frames – are perfect for use throughout the home from bedrooms to halls, on dressing tables and

desks, but they also bring welcoming and vibrant elements of warmth and colour to interior style. Handcast from Enesco – Hydrangea lidded box, desk clock and small photo frame. For more information about Handcast, contact: Enesco Limited, Customer Services, Brunthill Road, Kingstown, Carlisle, Cumbria, CA3 0EN. Telephone: 01228 404022 Fax: 01228 404041. Email: uksales@enesco.co.uk Website: www.enesco.co.uk

CLOOCI.COM LAUNCHES HELLO KITTY MIMOBOT DESIGNER USB IN THE UK SANRIO’S ICON CELEBRATES THE 35TH ANNIVERSARY WITH A GREAT COLLABORATION

s part of Hello Kitty’s 35th Anniversary celebration, Clooci.com is pleased to announce the launch of Hello Kitty x MIMOBOT designer flash drives in the UK and Ireland. SANRIO’s signature brand Hello Kitty develops, distributes and licenses a collection of gift, stationery and fashion accessory items for women of all ages. With fans around the world, Hello Kitty will mark the year with special co-branded partnerships, unique products, retail promotions & year-end exhibition events. The new collection will infuse cute characters with the fun, popart world of MIMOBOT, debuting in October with multiple designs produced and released in time for the pop icon’s anniversary on November 1st. Janet Hsu, President of Sanrio Global Consumer Products, is sure that the launch collection will be a hit among Hello Kitty fans and MIMOBOT collectors.

The crossover collaboration will begin with Hello Kitty and expand to include Maru®, My Melody®, Kuromi®, Keroppi®, Chococat®, and TuxedoSam™ in MIMOBOT form ranging from 2GB to 16GB capacities. The MIMOBOT flash drives will also be bundled with the mimoDesk™ personalization suite of SANRIOthemed wallpapers, screensavers, icons, and avatars, as well as videos and other digital surprises. The line is available for purchase at Clooci.com. For more information please visit www.clooci.com or contact

press@clooci.com , tel. 0844 991 2464. As part of Hello Kitty’s 35th Anniversary celebration, Clooci.com is pleased to announce the launch of Hello Kitty x MIMOBOT designer flash drives in the UK and Ireland. SANRIO’s signature brand Hello Kitty develops, distributes and licenses a collection of gift, stationery and fashion accessory items for women of all ages. With fans around the world, Hello Kitty will mark the year with special co-branded partnerships, unique products, retail promotions & year-end exhibition events. The new collection will infuse cute characters with the fun, popart world of MIMOBOT, debuting in October with multiple designs produced and released in time for the pop icon’s anniversary on November 1st. Janet Hsu, President of Sanrio Global Consumer Products, is sure that the launch collection will be a hit among Hello Kitty fans and MIMOBOT collectors. The crossover collaboration will begin with Hello Kitty and expand to include Maru®, My Melody®, Kuromi®, Keroppi®, Chococat®, and TuxedoSam™ in MIMOBOT form ranging from 2GB to 16GB capacities. The MIMOBOT flash drives will also be bundled with the mimoDesk™ personalization suite of SANRIOthemed wallpapers, screensavers, icons, and avatars, as well as videos and other digital surprises. The line is available for purchase at Clooci.com. For more information please visit www.clooci.com or contact press@clooci.com , tel. 0844 991 2464.

Clooci Limited, Perfume Factory, Studio G.02, Wales Raod, Acton, W3 6UG T: +44 (0)844 991 2464 F: +44 (0)844 991 2454

IRISH GIFT RETAILER Volume 3 Issue 4

C: 4998992 E: info@clooci.com W: www.clooci.com

HALE IMPORTS COMMISSIONED WORKS IN PORCELAIN, CERAMIC, CAST-IRON AND MARBLE A SPECIALITY Free €100 Retail Value of Stamp Magnets when you place and order over €300 at Stand F16

Free Delivery to Northern Ireland and UK for orders over €350

Free €100 Retail value of goods for CASH & CARRY Customers for orders over €500 Visit our Showrooms to see

FULL RANGE OF CEREMICS & CAST-IRON PRODUCTS our

LATEST RANGE OF WALL ART, MULTI-FUEL STOVES and THE HALES RIPPLED FIREBACK

Ballyporeen Fine Bone China Church Street Ballyporeen Co Tipperary Tel: 052 7467337 Fax: 052 7467175

product news

Exclusively Designed Fashion Jewellery by

Timeless Irish Treasures Stand No.

F98

2038 Carolina Beach Road, Wilmington, NC 28401 910-763-7055 910-763-7057 (fax) E-mail: cathy@timelessirishtreasures.com Website: www.timelessirishtreasures.com

* Creator of the Best Selling Irish Blessing Jewellery & The Kharma Bracelet * Fashion Spiral Jewellery * Sterling Silver Jewellery * Enamel Jewellery

* Mood Rings * Watches * Stainless Steel Jewellery * Toe Rings & Ankle Bracelets

Timeless Irish Treasures

imeless Irish Treasures, Inc. can trace its roots back to the oldest Irish import store in the United States. Mattie Haskins’ opened its doors in Brooklyn in 1923 and moved to the East Side of Manhattan in 1928. In those days, the store specialized in Irish sheet music, 78 rpm records and Irish cigarettes and tobacco. Mattie Haskins, himself, who hailed from Dublin, wrote and published his own songbook during this time. Shortly after moving to Manhattan, Mattie Haskins succumbed to pneumonia, leaving his wife, Theresa, in control of the store, now located on East 75th St. In 1950, Theresa Haskins (nee McAntee), originally from County Cavan, brought her nephew, Pat Lynch, over from Ireland to help in the store. Theresa and Pat Lynch ran the store for a number of years and in her late 60s, she remarried a Galway man named Mike McGlynn. When Theresa died some years later, Mike moved back to Ireland, leaving the store in the hands of a nephew of his and a niece of Theresa’s, Eileen McMahon. It was from Eileen McMahon that Cathy Lynch (daughter to Pat Lynch) purchased the store in 1978 and added “Shamrock Imports” to the name. The store moved from the East Side of Manhattan to the Manhattan Mall on 6th Avenue. It was from the back of this store that Cathy Lynch originally launched her wholesale operation.

In 2007 Timeless Irish Treasures shifted its base of operations to Wilmington, NC, where the third generation of the family-owned business joined the operations. Mother, daughter and grandmother opened a retail outlet that bears the daughter’s name - Sinead’s Cottage – and continued the tradition that had been established 86 years prior on the streets of New York City. Timeless Irish Treasures has grown to become one of the premier suppliers of exclusively designed fashion jewelry as well as a large selection of jewelry in Sterling Silver, Stainless Steel, enamel & watches. Some of their best selling items and designs are the Irish Blessing jewelry, Charms of Ireland Collection & the Irish Kharma Bracelets. New designs being launched at showcase include Irish Coin jewelry & Forty Shades of Green jewelry which depicts the 32 counties of Ireland. Timeless Irish Treasures continues to offer a geographically diverse customer base the very finest in Celtic and Claddagh jewelry and innovative new fashion designs being created by an in-house design team as well as an unmatched level of customer service. Based on the company’s ability to stock a great selection of inventory in its present location, orders can be shipped within a matter of days.

IRISH GIFT RETAILER Volume 3 Issue 4