Giftguide July 2019 - Christmas

Page 1

JULY 2019

FOR HOME & LIFESTYLE RETAILERS. EST.1975

Keeping up appearances Why store design and VM are intrinsic to your brand

Trend alert: What will be hanging on Christmas trees in 2019?

Criminal minds The impact of theft on retail




GIFTGUIDE is published by

THE INTERMEDIA GROUP PTY LTD ABN 94 002 583 682 41 Bridge Road Glebe NSW 2037 Australia Ph: 02 9660 2113 Fax: 02 9660 4419 MANAGING DIRECTOR: Simon Grover PUBLISHER: Mark Kuban EDITOR: Marion Gerritsen marion@intermedia.com.au NATIONAL ADVERTISING MANAGER: Gabrielle Broodryk gbroodryk@intermedia.com.au SENIOR DESIGNER: Chris Papaspiros PRODUCTION MANAGER: Jacqui Cooper HEAD OF CIRCULATION: Chris Blacklock DISCLAIMER:

This publication is published by The Intermedia Group Pty Ltd (the “Publisher”). Materials in this publication have been created by a variety of different entities and, to the extent permitted by law, the Publisher accepts no liability for materials created by others. All materials should be considered protected by Australian and international intellectual property laws. Unless you are authorised by law or the copyright owner to do so, you may not copy any of the materials. The mention of a product or service, person or company in this publication does not indicate the Publisher’s endorsement. The views expressed in this publication do not necessarily represent the opinion of the Publisher, its agents, company officers or employees. Any use of the information contained in this publication is at the sole risk of the person using that information. The user should make independent enquiries as to the accuracy of the information before relying on that information. All express or implied terms, conditions, warranties, statements, assurances and representations in relation to the Publisher, its publications and its services are expressly excluded save for those conditions and warranties which must be implied under the laws of any State of Australia or the provisions of Division 2 of Part V of the Trade Practices Act 1974 and any statutory modification or re-enactment thereof. To the extent permitted by law, the Publisher will not be liable for any damages including special, exemplary, punitive or consequential damages (including but not limited to economic loss or loss of profit or revenue or loss of opportunity) or indirect loss or damage of any kind arising in contract, tort or otherwise, even if advised of the possibility of such loss of profits or damages. While we use our best endeavours to ensure accuracy of the materials we create, to the extent permitted by law, the Publisher excludes all liability for loss resulting from any inaccuracies or false or misleading statements that may appear in this publication. Copyright © 2019 - The Intermedia Group Pty Ltd.

4  giftguideonline.com.au

26 in this issue 8 design Lucy Given shares her tips 12 visual merchandising Christmas inspiration from retailers great and small 18 trends what to look out for this summer 22 christmas trends what will be hanging on Christmas trees? 26 product focus top 10 toys for store shelves this Christmas 28 Q&A with Iain Marr of Cotton Candy Imports 30 instore the impact of theft on retailers 32 products great finds to stock your shelves with this Christmas

08


contents

30 22 28

12

July 2019  5




Keeping up appearances Store design and visual merchandising are intrinsic to your brand and identity. With the most important selling season just around the corner, LUC. Design store owner, Lucy Given, shares her tips.

Store design and visual merchandising are intrinsic to your brand and identity. LUC. Design store owner, Lucy Given, shares her tips.

8  giftguideonline.com.au


design

I

nspire, excite and engage—these

2. We want to make sure our customers can feel

are the three words that reflect the holy

at ease, we want them to stay as long as possible

grail of contemporary retailing.

3. We want to make sure our customers can find

Where visual merchandising might

be an art, store design is a science. First

products in store, and that they have all the relevant information they need to buy with confidence

impressions count and being able to create a

4. We want to inspire

retail space that is inviting and interesting is key

5. We want to make sales!

to having a successful store:

Here are my tips to ensure your brand

1. We want to avoid overwhelming or confusing the customer

and the experience within your store is represented cohesively.

CLICK

+ TO READ MORE July 2019  9




JUMBLED ONLINE

DAVID JONES

TELLING A STORY Get inspired by these amazing Christmas displays from stores all around the world

HARRODS

12  giftguideonline.com.au

DESIGN MERCHANTS

FREEDOM AUSTRALIA


visual merchandising

BERGDORF GOODMAN

BLOOMINGDALE’S

KOSKELA

MERCI

July 2019  13


visual merchandising

MYER

WINDOW SHOP NYC_GUCCI

WINDOW SHOP NYC_RALPH LAUREN

STORY

14  giftguideonline.com.au



visual merchandising

OPUS DESIGN STORE

PIGEONHOLE AUSTRALIA

WINDOW SHOP NYC_MACY’S

WINDOW SHOP NYC_INTERMIX

BACK TO CONTENTS 16  giftguideonline.com.au


Filll your Christmas with colour Gifts with meaning T: 1800 811 598 E: info@kohliving.com.au kohliving.com.au


18  giftguideonline.com.au


July 2019  19


Magical Chri with continu glitter and

Cotton Candy Imports P: 03 9782 0262


istmas decor uous swirling d LED lights

2 E: mail@cottoncandyimports.com.au


22  giftguideonline.com.au


christmas trends

Trend alert:

UNIQUE BAUBLES

& SUSTAINABLE

DECORATIONS Classic or quirky, what will be hanging on Christmas trees in 2019? Christmasworld exhibitors show us the trends.

July 2019  23


christmas trends

T

he countdown has begun: in

surfaces and warm, burnt tones. In contrast,

a few weeks’ time, retailers will be

sweet traditions bring joy and charm into the

putting on show the latest Christmas

home: surfaces remind us of icing and sugar

trends with original accessories,

pearls, with handwritten messages and hand-

unique Christmas tree baubles and ideas for

drawn images. At the same time, naïve motifs and

sustainable decorations.

also Norwegian patterns are equally indicative of

Tender festivities, essential ceremonies, sweet traditions and luminous celebrations—that is

this style, as are fresh colours such as peach, red and berry tones.

how stilbüro bora.herke.palmisano describes

When it comes to luminous celebrations the

the four major trend scenarios for the up-coming

clue is in the name: elegant, luminous and dark

2019/20 festive season.

shades with intense colourings and shimmering

Tender festivities is a calm and peaceful trend,

metallic colours, iridescent surfaces, sequins,

with a reductionist style. Central features are

sparkly discs, ultra-glossy finishes and lurex

unusual shapes and surfaces, combined with

effects, as well as velvet and feathers conjure

matt finishes, stone effects, crushed, creased or

glamorous Christmas decorations.

pleated surfaces and high-quality paper.

Four trends, four worlds, each with their unique

Naturalness and modernity, combined with

product ranges. But what have people actually

raw, rustic features are the distinguishing

ordered in especially large numbers? What will

characteristics of essential ceremonies. This is

we be able to find in stores and in online retail

a trend that finds expression in raw, untreated

sites in a few weeks’ time?

CLICK 24  giftguideonline.com.au

+ TO READ MORE



for cool

TOO SCHOOL Kids love getting messy and creating something cool that they can play with. Let’s see what’s on offer for the upcoming silly season.

Plush Llama

26  giftguideonline.com.au


product focus

Multicoloured Rainbow Glitter Wand

Crunchy Putty Bright Pearl

A

s Christmas is getting closer, kids everywhere are already working on their wish list to give to Santa, which will, as always, include lots of toys and gadgets. TNW Australia supplies the gift industry with innovative

toys, gifts and accessories that will look good on any Christmas list.

Mouldable Crazy Sand

We list the top 10 trends that retailers should look out for when stocking their shelves for the festive season.

1 Llamas, llamas and more llamas Llamas are definitely the animal du jour and they come in many different sizes, materials and colours. If you want a cute and colourful cuddle pal, TNW’s Plush Llama ticks all the boxes. This fluffy and adorable rainbow coloured Llama has sparkling feet and crystal blue eyes... what’s not to like? If you’re looking for sweet companion to keep you company and keep you focused then meet the no drama llamas. These Cushy Frizzee Light Up Llamas are sensory toys with soft, spiky and stretchy exteriors, they make excellent tactile toys and they light up a rainbow of colours when lightly tapped or shaken. CLICK

+ TO READ MORE July 2019  27


make believe

THE MAGIC OF

We chat to Iain Marr from Cotton Candy Imports about the company’s journey so far and its latest product ranges. Can you tell us a bit more about

We are currently working with our creative team

Cotton Candy Imports?

developing new Christmas ranges for 2020.

Cotton Candy Imports was launched in 2015

What are some of the current trends

after seeing a gap in the market for creative

to look out for?

niche toys and giftware. We were very fortunate

Glitter Lanterns have a big following, and our 2019

to have early success, we put it down to fresh

range has had a massive reception. Our in-house

designs and hard work.

design team works closely with our manufacturers,

We won Toy of the Year from the ATA for our Chloe’s

making sure we always have new and unique

Garden Fairy Garden Village, which was designed

products relevant to the Australian market.

with our daughter, Chloe. We have also expanded

Any advice for (new) businesses in

our business to be an international business.

this tough environment?

28  giftguideonline.com.au


Q&A

Take pride in your shop, make stories of

expecting to sell out pretty quickly

products and try to be different to the retailers

What are your tips for retailers on

around you, make sure your shop is clean and

how to display your products?

change your displays regularly to keep your

Create a story, don’t have just a couple of pieces,

shop looking fresh and inviting. Also, pay your

if you make a story consumers are more likely to

staff first and yourself last.

purchase several pieces to recreate your display

What are you looking forward to at

at home.

the August Melbourne Gift Fair?

This is how our Christmas range works, in

We are expecting a bumper fair in August, the

particular our light up Christmas lanterns, we find

customer feedback we have already on our

that consumers prefer to have several of them to

new lantern range is phenomenal, so we are

create a magical atmosphere at home.

BACK TO CONTENTS

July 2019  29


THICK AS THIEVES Theft has always been a major concern for retailers, especially around the Christmas holidays when numbers seem to spike.

30  giftguideonline.com.au


instore

A

ccording to the first

the research shows that thieves have upped their

dedicated retail crime survey

game and retailers need to adapt to stay ahead.

for Australian and New Zealand

“Loss prevention technologies are still the best

retailers there has been a major

deterrents for opportunistic shoplifters and when

increase in customer theft, which now accounts

combined with good customer service will often

for more than 50 per cent of revenue lost from

significantly reduce theft in stores,” he says.

stores due to crime.

“It has also become clear that retailers have

The report estimates that crime-related loss

lost confidence in law enforcement’s response

is 0.92 per cent of revenue, revealing a $3.37

to retail crime and this has allowed shoplifters

billion direct cost of crime to the industry in

to become bolder. These findings should

the 2017/18 financial year. Sixty-seven per

encourage retailers to invest in further theft

cent of retailers says that it is difficult to combat

prevention measures. There has been a major

shoplifters with their current resources because

focus on cybercrime and cybersecurity in retail.

of the diverse and sophisticated ways that

Yet this push towards protecting digital assets

criminals are now targeting retailers.

has apparently left a gaping hole for shoplifters

Mark Gentle, vice president of Checkpoint

to take advantage of gaps in retailer’s security

Australia, which sponsored the study, says that CLICK

in stores.”

+ TO READ MORE

July 2019  31


1 Everything you need for the festive season

4 3

2

1. Set of 6 Aboriginal art Christmas baubles, wholesales for $11.35. Alperstein Designs, 03 9584 5333, marc@alpersteindesigns.com.au, www.alpersteindesigns.com.au 2. Christmas Cheer coolers, wholesale for $4.49. Lisa Pollock, 07 5576 2369, office@lisapollock.com.au, www.lisapollock.com.au, facebook.com/LisaPollock.ArtFromTheHeart, instagram.com/ lisapollockartist/ 3. Gumnut design wrapping paper collection, wholesales for $3.25 per roll. Vandoros Fine Packaging, 02 9966 8868, sales@vandoros.com.au, www.vandoros.com.au, facebook.com/vandorosfinepackaging, instagram.com/ vandorosfinepackaging 4. Me to You M7 Cuddles Jumper Bear, wholesales for $12.25. Jasnor (Australia), 03 9562 9900, sales@jasnor.com, www.jasnor.com.au, facebook.com/JasnorAUS, instagram.com/JasnorAUS 32  giftguideonline.com.au


products

1 2 3

5

4

1. I’m Toy Pastel Stacking Cow, wholesales for $13.45. Artiwood Australia, 02 8294 3030, sales@artiwood.com.au, www.artiwood.com.au, facebook.com/artiwoodaustralia/, instagram.com/artiwoodaustralia/ 2. Gold & silver Xmas wreath, wholesales for $32. DWBH Homewares, 07 3907 7567, info@dwbh.com.au, www.dwbh.com.au, facebook.com/dwbhhomewares, instagram.com/dwbh_homewares 3. Cool Stuff Super Soft Gorilla Plush, retails for $18.50. TNW Australia, 02 9559 1300, sales@tnw.com.au, www.tnw.com.au, facebook.com/tnwaustralia, instagram.com/tnw_australia 4. Circle of Angels tealight holder, wholesales for $8.40. Terracotta Clayworks, 07 3376 7437, orders@terracottaclayworks.com.au, terracottaclayworks.com.au/, facebook.com/terracottaclayworks/, instagram.com/terracotta_clayworks/ 5. Hutch Cassidy Christmas card, wholesales for $2.95. Vevoke, 02 9882 2278, info@vevoke.com, vevoke.com, facebook.com/vevoke, Instagram.com/vevoke July 2019  33


2

1

3

5 4

1. Christmas Angel Range, wholesales from$7.53 to $15.56. Annabel Trends, 07 5593 4755, sales@annabeltrends.com, www.annabeltrends.com, facebook.com/annabeltrends, instagram.com/annabeltrends 2. Holly and Berries pink wrapping paper, wholesales for $45 per roll. Vandoros Fine Packaging, 02 9966 8868, sales@vandoros.com.au, www.vandoros.com.au, facebook.com/ vandorosfinepackaging, instagram.com/vandorosfinepackaging 3. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer & Clarice activity toy, wholesales for $15.90. Jasnor (Australia), 03 9562 9900, sales@jasnor.com, www.jasnor.com.au, facebook.com/JasnorAUS, instagram.com/JasnorAUS 4. Les Chat candles, wholesale from $8.25 to $13.80. Gibson Importing, 03 9581 3666, enquiries@gibimp.com.au, www.gibsongifts.com.au 5. Spirit Floral Christmas cards, wholesale for $5.99. Spirit Publishing, 02 8354 0091, mail@spiritpublishing.biz, www.spiritpublishing.biz, facebook.com/spiritpublishing/, instagram.com/spiritpublishing/ 34  giftguideonline.com.au


products

3

1 2

1. Marvel Iron Man Infinity War figurine, wholesales for $431.80. Royal Selangor, 03 8797 0750, sales.au@royalselangor.com, www.royalselangor.com, facebook.com/royalselangor 2. Cool Stuff Dinosaur Egg Crystal Putty, retails for $5.50. TNW Australia, 02 9559 1300, sales@tnw.com.au, www.tnw.com.au, facebook.com/tnwaustralia, instagram.com/tnw_australia 3. Pampet Santa’s Little Helper bandana on collar, wholesales from $10 to $12.73. Dog Bless You, 1800 040 740, sales@dogblessyou.com.au, www.dogblessyou.com.au, facebook.com/DogBlessYou.com.au/

Summer 2020 Christmas 2019 Melbourne Fair STAND QQ11

1800 000 496 | ausales@frenchcc.com.au | frenchcountrycollections.com.au

July 2019  35


1 2

3

5 4

1. Chill Me range, wholesales from $9.07 to $13.60. Gibson Importing, 03 9581 3666, enquiries@gibimp.com.au, www.gibsongifts.com.au 2. Alpine Christmas paper garland with string, wholesales for $3.50. Vandoros Fine Packaging, 02 9966 8868, sales@vandoros.com.au, www.vandoros.com.au, facebook.com/vandorosfinepackaging, instagram.com/vandorosfinepackaging 3. Cool Stuff Super Doll and Animal Balloon Kit, retails for $28.95. TNW Australia, 02 9559 1300, sales@tnw.com.au, www.tnw.com.au, facebook.com/tnwaustralia, instagram.com/tnw_australia 4. DCUK Santa Duckling & Reindeer with Red Jumper, wholesales for $29.50 each. Jasnor (Australia), 03 9562 9900, sales@jasnor.com, www.jasnor.com.au, facebook.com/JasnorAUS, instagram.com/JasnorAUS 5. Blank Christmas cards, wholesale for $2.95 each. Vevoke, 02 9882 2278, info@vevoke.com, vevoke.com, facebook.com/vevoke, Instagram.com/vevoke 36  giftguideonline.com.au


products

1

2 3 5

4 1. Mickey Mouse 90th Anniversary collection, wholesales from $7.70 to $545.43. Royal Selangor, 03 8797 0750, sales.au@royalselangor.com, www.royalselangor.com, facebook.com/royalselangor 2. Greeting cards, boxes of 10 wholesale for $5.90 or $6.80, Candle Bark Creations, 02 9516 0926, hello@candlebark.com.au, www.candlebark.com.au, facebook.com/candlebarkcreations, Instagram.com/candlebarkcreations 3. Cool Stuff Shaker Slime with Confetti, retails for $3.50. TNW Australia, 02 9559 1300, sales@tnw.com.au, www.tnw.com.au, facebook.com/tnwaustralia, instagram.com/tnw_australia 4. Spirit Vintage Christmas cards, wholesale for $5.99. Spirit Publishing, 02 8354 0091, mail@spiritpublishing.biz, www.spiritpublishing.biz, facebook.com/spiritpublishing/, instagram.com/spiritpublishing/ 5. Me to You Tiny Tatty Teddy M5 Boxed Bear, wholesales for $9.05. Jasnor (Australia), 03 9562 9900, sales@jasnor.com, www.jasnor.com.au, facebook.com/JasnorAUS, instagram.com/JasnorAUS July 2019  37


products

2

1

3

5

4

1. Avize and Cala crosses, wholesale for $8. DWBH Homewares, 07 3907 7567, info@dwbh.com.au, www.dwbh.com.au, facebook.com/ dwbhhomewares, instagram.com/dwbh_homewares 2. Indigo Jamm Bernie goes to Australia book & matching block cars, wholesale for $4.50 and $11.35 respectively. Artiwood Australia, 02 8294 3030, sales@artiwood.com.au, www.artiwood.com.au, facebook.com/artiwoodaustralia/, instagram.com/artiwoodaustralia/ 3. Cool Stuff Assorted Fingerboard Games, retails for $5.50. TNW Australia, 02 9559 1300, sales@tnw.com.au, www.tnw.com.au, facebook.com/tnwaustralia, instagram.com/tnw_australia 4. Holly and Berries navy wrapping paper, wholesales for $45 per roll. Vandoros Fine Packaging, 02 9966 8868, sales@vandoros.com.au, www.vandoros.com.au, facebook.com/vandorosfinepackaging, instagram.com/vandorosfinepackaging 5. BigMouth Inc Ginormous sprinklers, wholesale for $54.52. William Valentine Collection, 02 4647 2866, sales@williamvalentine.com.au, www.williamvalentine.com.au, facebook.com/williamvalentinecollection/, instagram.com/williamvalentinegiftware/ 38  giftguideonline.com.au

BACK TO CONTENTS


giftguideonline.com.au Source new products, find suppliers and read the latest news all in one place. Sign-up to receive our eNewsletter, twice weekly. instagram.com/ausgiftguide facebook.com/australiangiftguide twitter.com/ausgiftguide pinterest.com/ausgiftguide/ linkedin.com/company/australian-giftguide ISSUU

FOR HOME & LIFESTYLE RETAILERS. EST.1975


continued from page 8 Define your space

bricks and mortar space is well organised, and as

First things first, defining your space is all about

intuitive and easy to use as possible.

your brand and image, how it gets people into your store, and what they do once they’re there.

A customer who enters a store should have a clear path to follow, with different categories of products

This is the big picture—what are you selling,

clearly sign-posted or displayed, logical and clear

and who are you selling to? There needs to be a

product groupings, and a means of quickly finding

consistency of style and function in your store that

help if they need it.

reflect all of these different factors, to tie the whole

A well organised store is one that makes

shopping experience together.

customers feel safe and comfortable, and is

Organising the space

structured so that they can get what they need and

When a customer shops online, they have an entire

where they need to go without wasting time.

store at their fingertips, with the ability to look at

Offer a consistent sequential experience

multiple different types of products at essentially the

Successful stores deliberately plan the customer

same time. This isn’t quite the same for the in-store

experience, both figuratively and literally. Literally,

shopping experience. But, just like a well-thought-

it’s about planning the store’s layout for the optimal

out, intelligent website, it’s important that your

customer experience; figuratively, it’s more about the

BACK TO CONTENTS 40  giftguideonline.com.au


design

chronological path a customer takes to get there—an

to participate actively in their shopping

awareness and knowledge, through marketing, that

experience—for example, by ensuring that

encourages them to come to the store (whether

staff members are available and clearly visible

print, web, online socials or even just the store-front

as such, and providing the opportunity for the

window), then exploring the store and browsing

customer to have different types of experiences

products, and finally, making a purchase. The

within the store.

experience needs to be consistent—your style, your

With the massive shift that online shopping

fonts, your colours, your service… your brand.

has brought, this part of the physical store

Provide visual communication

design process is paramount—it is about offering

Visual information includes signage, branding,

experiences that the customer can’t get online,

and other written and graphical information that

whether it’s one-on-one help, education and advice

communicates essential information to customers.

from staff, hearing the back story and history of the

It should be clearly legible, visually consistent and

product, or the opportunity to try products out

provide only important information that will actually

before purchasing.

enhance the customer’s experience, and ideally,

Online shopping should be seen to

each element should conform with the store’s visual

complement in-store shopping rather than

branding design.

conflict with it. This means that the need for

For example, you can take inspiration from

retailers to create compelling experiences to

suppliers at Life Instyle, Reed Gift Fairs and

ensure shoppers have a reason to visit again and

AGHA Gift Fairs, where the focus is on providing

again has never been greater.

information quickly and succinctly, to focus people’s

Your store should be the physical manifestation of

attention when they are divided between multiple

your brand. Your logo, your colours, the experience

different brands at once.

within the store, the product you sell is the identity

Visual communication needs to be immediately

of your brand.

recognisable, and provide information that can be

Lucy Given is the owner of LUC. Design in

interpreted and used quickly.

Hobart, Tasmania. She will be speaking at Life

Invite customer participation

Instyle in Melbourne on creating an online retail

Good visual communication invites customers

destination for your business. July 2019  41


continued from page 24

“The fat-ball bird feeder, the key holder and

“We thought, to begin with, that a contrasting

the reindeer figures—all products in wood,”

item on the tree—ie one in lighter wood—would sell

recommends Benjamin Wolffs, marketing director

well, but the darker one is more popular. Basically,

at Designimdorf.

the star is definitely our strongest Christmas item.”

This company is all about original products that are

On the other hand, it is the key holder that is the

modern, reductionist in style and characterised by a

buyers’ favourite, when it comes to gifts at Christmas

concern for sustainability.

time. In general, Wolffs observes, there is a growing

“There is a trend for traditional items with a reductionist slant and that is reflected in our sales figures,” he explains. Also getting lots of orders is

customer base for high-quality and sustainably produced products. “We are also finding that wholesalers and retailers

the ‘Smoky Dwarf’ and the house shaped fragrance

are increasingly interested in manufacture and

burner, as well as a laser-cut star made from walnut

materials. They want to know how the wood is

to hang on the Christmas tree.

treated, what oils we use, for instance. However, the

42  giftguideonline.com.au


christmas trends

end customer is not yet really ready to pay the higher

decorate their trees on 1 December and display it

price. And sustainability, too, simply costs more.”

proudly. In our neck of the woods, it often doesn’t

Quality is something that interests buyers. Christian Schmidt from Gift Company agrees.

happen until Christmas morning.” As far as colours are concerned, Helmut Schmidt

“Products, which, from a craftsmanship point of

can see no overall trend. “Whilst we offer countless

view, involve more work, are the ones that are in

different colours—over 100 with the Oberfränkische

demand,” he says.

Glass brand, for example—Christmas remains, in

“We get a clear sense of that. It has to be either

my view, a relatively conservative business. Red and

very cheap or very expensive, there’s not much

gold are the classics and so are natural colours ie

activity in the mid-range,” he suggests. And he has

greens and browns.”

been observing this for some time. “So, for instance, our labour-intensive vases have

Variety is then provided in a whole range of different shapes and forms. Sometimes owls seem

been getting plenty of good orders. Being able

to be a strong trend, then birds in general. Things

to apply enamel over such a large surface needs a

are, he suggests, different when it comes to the

huge amount of skill and that’s what makes these

Sereno brand. “Here, our ‘fun’ items are aimed

vases special.”

rather more at a young target group. The Star Wars

In addition to that, the little glass pine tree has

figures for the Christmas tree are part of this, too.

been very popular. Its charm lies in the fact that

They are now into their third season and still going

you decorate the inside with pinecones and even

strong,” continues Schmidt.

flowers or strings of lights and it is this variety that has appealed to buyers, he adds. Indeed, there is an increasing trend for more and better quality, says Helmut Schmidt, managing director of Weihnachtsland. “At all events, in my experience, it is the Americans and the Swiss, who are more willing to spend more for better quality. That may have something to do with the fact that the Americans July 2019  43


continued from page 43

With their Christborn selection, on the other

Weihnachtssterne Manufaktur is also noticing.

hand, the company offers things like the ‘Italian’

The company was founded in 2012 and produces

theme, for instance. This includes a Christmas tree

Christmas stars in various sizes, made from paper

bauble in the form of a Fiat, a Vespa, a pepper,

and folded, cut, glued and painted all by hand.

a lemon and some round spheres, painted

“Whilst our main customers are in Germany,

like Amalfi plates. These are proving popular,

Austria and Switzerland, we also sell to Japan and

particularly with Americans, says Schmidt. But

the US—Las Vegas and New York, for example,” says

Made in Germany is definitely a recommendation,

owner, designer and founder, Nicola Tennie.

from a buyer’s point of view. “For us, German

“German handicraft work is highly valued there, as

products are nothing unusual, but for Americans

is the fact that we produce high-quality one-offs that

they are something a bit special.”

are all handmade. That is proving very popular.”

German craftsmanship is in demand across regional borders, too, something that the Deutsche 44  giftguideonline.com.au

The company offers the stars in gold, silver, red, white and copper. “Gold is the runaway best-seller,


christmas trends

it is, of course, the most natural one to go with stars,”

cones, acorns, birds and, indeed, a little dog or a

says Tennie. She has also noticed that dark red has

child with skis.

been more popular this year. But, then, that is also a traditional Christmas colour. Red is also an important colour at Inge’s Christmas Decor. The Red and Glorious principle, for instance, has been doing really well for the company. “In previous years it has been rather a purist

Christmas decorations are unthinkable without animals and this, too, is evident by the figures at Vondels. “Nature is a major trend, without a shadow of a doubt; greens are modern, together with any of the animals that inhabit the natural world,” Owner,

approach that people wanted, but this recent trend

Loesje Donner-Raedts comments. “So, our best-

is for more opulence and weight,” says designer

sellers are the lobster, the tiger’s head and also the

Birgit Müller-Blech. “In terms of the details, it is

unicorn cake and our funky lips.”

characterised by reds, blues and gold, accented

In her view, the upcoming festivities will be

with black, pinks and purples. To go with it are floral

dominated by animal prints. There’s nothing to

patterns, jewels and an exotic bird that has been

stop Christmas decorations being just good fun,

selling really well.”

particularly the items for the tree. It’s fashionable, as

In the US, on the other hand, it is food motifs that have been doing well including cheese and cooking pans as well as all sorts and kinds of

she puts it. High-quality and uniqueness are a trend that Vondels also cater for in its collection. But quality doesn’t necessarily mean conservative.

animals and birds. According to Müller-Blech,

“Younger customers, in particular, have, for some

things related to the Real and Calm theme have

time, no longer decorated their homes in traditional

received lots of orders.

fashion, but more according to individual taste and

“It’s a quiet, peaceful range, with rock grey, snow white and warm beige tones, combined with stripes. Animals to go with it are typically golden eagles—and rams, too,” she explains.

mood. Our pouting lips are a good example of that,” she adds. Orders for candles have been relatively traditional. “Flat-top pillar candles are among those that have

A third scenario that is popular with buyers is,

always sold well and continue to do so. But it’s

moreover, Warm and Protected, which includes

our marbled candles with a rustic look that are

warm reds and toffee shades, together with

increasingly in demand,” says Vanessa Wagner July 2019  45


continued from page 45

from Wiedemann. “We’ve seen significant growth

towards zero and make a contribution to

in this area. In summer, it’s ice-blue, pink and biscuit

environmental protection.

that are the trendy colours, in winter, traditional

However, on the other hand, Tavio Piller,

colours do best including red, gold, silver and

designer and owner of Shishi, can’t distinguish any

cream. And there’s a shade of olive that is particularly

one single real trend.

in demand this year and has been doing very well. “As far as traditional candles for the tree are

“We have around 3,500 Christmas products and sell in over 60 countries worldwide; so, it’s difficult

concerned, red sells best, followed by gold.

for me to talk about a single trend,” he says.

Consumers remain traditional in this area. But I am

“And even when it comes to colours, we offer

not surprised to see that other colours, too, are

almost the same spectrum and the whole range is

extending the Christmas spectrum more and more

used. From where I am standing, all the collections

amongst younger customers,” she says.

are selling almost equally well. At all events, the

Customers are increasingly interested in

trend is for high-quality products, including luxury

the ‘Greencandle’ label from Wiedemann,

ones. That much I can say. Just like the trend for

too—candles where particular care is taken

sustainability, not least in terms of packaging, too.”

in manufacture to reduce the Co2 emissions

christmasworld.messefrankfurt.com

BACK TO CONTENTS 46  giftguideonline.com.au


christmas trends

All photography: Christmasworld/Messe Frankfurt

July 2019  47


continued from page 26

2 Let’s have some fun

container. When you are happy with what you’ve

Clay has been around for many years and has

made leave it out to dry. When fully dry it hardens

always been a fun way for kids to create anything

into a sponge like texture that can be squashed in

they liked. Despite the influence of technology in

your hand but keeps its shape and form.

their lives, moulding clay is still a very popular past time for many. Children can get moulding and make whatever their

Kids can make figures, animals, trees, cars, whole scenarios... the possibilities are endless with Super Light Moulding Clay.

heart desires and show off their sculpting abilities with

3 Everyone is going crazy for Crazy Sand

the Super Light Moulding Clay Kit from TNW.

Years ago, TNW launched Super Sand and kids

Each kit includes 8 x 20g coloured clay, one set of

were obsessed with the stuff, it looked and felt just

three modelling tools, and one detailed booklet with

like wet sand and was awesome for building sand

various step by step projects and a colour mixing chart.

castles amongst other things.

This moulding clay has a great feel and is easy

It’s 2019 and there is a whole new sand craze.

to use. It starts off soft and mouldable and can

TNW’s mouldable Crazy Sand comes in six vibrant

be reused again and again if kept in an airtight

colours, this dynamic sand is super light and soft,

Growing Mermaid Growing Panda

Extra Large Glitter Spring Musical Jewellery Box - Dome Butterfly

48  giftguideonline.com.au


product focus

Plush Pink Bear with Sequin Heart

Fingerboard Games

Mouldable Crazy Sand

is stretchable, squeezable, mouldable and even

4 Snap, crackle and crunch

floats in water. Starting off as a solid wet sand like

Straight from another cosmos is Crunchy Putty; it

texture, if stretched or torn it becomes fluffy and

is filled with tiny colourful balls that make crackling

airy like marshmallows or fairy floss. On the other

crunchy sounds when squashed or stretched.

hand, it can be moulded and retain accurate detail as a solid piece and cleanly cut into shapes.

Currently available in two types, Bright and Glitter, it has the consistency of chewing gum

Crazy Sand is coated in a stretchy substance

and a bright shiny look. Both varieties have four

which allows the sand to stick together so it can

assorted colours and come in punchy packaging

be moulded and cut without making any mess.

exclusively designed at TNW.

Another cool feature of TNW’s Crazy Sand is

5 Make it glitter

that it never dries, allowing you to work on or add

Take the classic spring to the next level with

detail to your creation for days or even weeks.

the giant rainbow glitter spring. Watch it walk July 2019  49


continued from page 49

down the stairs like a rainbow coloured

6 Turn up the music

sparkly elephant.

Music boxes have been loved throughout the years

Bounce it up and down and watch the colours of

by young and old. TNW’s dazzling dome shaped

the rainbow flow and sparkle through the air.

jewellery boxes are adorned with stunning butterfly

Twirl it around and watch it sparkle. The

and floral arrangements and a soft pink flock interior.

perfect wand for a little princess or lovers of

Twist the lever on the back and open the lid and

rainbows is the Rainbow Coloured Glitter Wand

you’ll be delighted to discover a twirling ballerina

that shimmers as you sway or spin them through

dancing gracefully in front of the mirror to her

the air.

favourite jingle.

It is a great accompaniment to a fairy outfit or to

7 Grow as you go

show off your gymnastic or dancing skills. Each

If you want to teach your kids some responsibility

wand is rainbow coloured and filled with glitter

in a fun way then the Growing Panda and Mermaid

and water and has soft rubber tips.

are the perfect gift for them.

BACK TO CONTENTS 50  giftguideonline.com.au

Super Light Moulding Clay Kit


product focus

Pearl Coloured Slime Making Kit

be set free by you. Just be aware, they won’t stay little for long. 8 To slime or not to slime Kids love slime, always have and always will. But now it’s time to make your own slime. So put on your science cap and get ready to experiment with this awesome sensory experience. TNW’s slime kits come with everything you need to make a variety of quality slimes. The Ultimate Slime Kit makes 525ml of slime in the following varieties; Neon (six colours assorted), Glow in the Dark, and Glitter (two colours assorted). 9 Sports on any level Foosball fanatics behold, it’s time to play the world’s biggest game on a super small scale. With football becoming more and more popular in

Laze about on your couch as your cute panda friend starts to hatch with the super popular Growing Panda. Simply disperse this little tree trunk in water and

Australia, this is a great gift for any budding player. If football (aka soccer) isn’t your thing, try out TNW’s fingerboard ice hockey, golf or American football game. Sold in an assortment of four, these

in 24 to 48 hours its outer layers will start to crack.

make an excellent novelty gift.

Within 78 hours your Panda friend will appear.

10 Think pink

Move the Panda to a new container where it will

For all the little girls (and boys) out there who love

continue to grow.

pink, TNW’s Plush Pink bear with Sequin Heart is

TNW is also introducing the Growing Mermaid, each one with a unique look and style. Stuck

the perfect gift. Make this fluffy pink companion your new best

inside the pretty little pink and green shells are

friend. It comes with a bright pink sequin heart

some pretty little underwater beauties ready to

which turns silver when you run your finger over it. July 2019  51


continued from page 31

Indeed, thieves are becoming more brazen adds

Many people think that retail crime is a victimless

Dr Emmeline Taylor, lead researcher and reader in

crime—that the large retailers build expected

criminology at City, University of London.

losses into their profit margin—but it couldn’t be

“We have seen this in the recent ‘steaming’ technique used by gangs to overpower

further from the truth. “We calculate that $3.37 billion is enough to

mobile phone shops in broad daylight, often

employ 85,000 supermarket checkout staff for a

intimidating staff and pushing customers out of

year,” she says. “We know that the retail industry

the way to reach the stock,” she explains.

is one of the major targets for criminal behaviour

“Thieves now tell me that it’s easy to get away

and the findings from this report highlight that

with petty theft. Reward greatly outweighs the

the costs of crime to the sector have reached

risk. There are multiple factors that could be

significant levels. Every time someone steals,

contributing to this including the introduction

every time property is damaged, and every time

of self-service checkout and changes in

fraud is committed, businesses have to make

criminal behaviour.”

adjustments—this might be increasing prices so

52  giftguideonline.com.au


instore

that honest customers foot the bill or employing

There are variations in how employee theft

fewer staff which impacts on communities.

is defined and measured. Some take a very

“One of the major findings is the level of

broad view to involve all activities that might

customer theft. The study found that this is

result in the employer incurring unanticipated

estimated to have cost the industry $2.26 billion

cost. For some, taking unauthorised long lunch

in 2017/18. Retailers are struggling to respond

breaks, embezzling money, stealing goods, and

to the sheer number of thieves operating in their

misusing sick leave all come under the banner of

stores, both opportunistic amateurs and more

‘employee theft’.

organised professional thieves.” According to the study, customer theft and

Others have been more limited in scope defining it as the unauthorised taking of merchandise, cash

dishonest employee theft remain primary concerns

or property. Such variations in what is considered

for retailers in Australia and New Zealand. Theft of

to be ‘theft’ translate into difficulties in gaining an

merchandise was ranked highly across the entire

accurate picture of its frequency.

sector, while theft of cash was not as common,

Although the survey participants attributed

signalling a shift away from cash towards electronic

dishonest employees to 22 per cent shrinkage

payment and mobile commerce.

(compared to 57 per cent for customer theft),

The techniques used by shop thieves are limited

employee theft remains a long-standing concern.

only by the imagination. There are, however, some

Dishonest employee theft is estimated to have

recurrent trends. For example, most thieves will

cost the industry $0.88 billion in 2017/18.

attempt to try and conceal items such as on their person or in a bag. Other techniques include distracting staff so that items can be concealed without raising the alarm. This was particularly prevalent in hardware stores but also grocery, department stores, pharmacies and sports and recreation stores. Self-service checkouts were regarded as being particularly vulnerable to thieves using this modus operandi. July 2019  53


continued from page 51

The often temporariness of retail work can mean

exception-based reporting (POS EBR) on cashier

that employees have not built up a sense of loyalty

transactions to identify dishonesty.

to the company for which they work and the threat

So what can retailers do?

of losing their job is less worrying if they perceive

Given current resource levels and constraints,

it to be short-term in any case. Added to this, is

69 per cent of retailers reported that it was

a relative lack of training that temporary staff are

somewhat difficult or extremely difficult to recruit

offered and/or undertake.

Loss Prevention staff with relevant experience

In addition to temporary and part-time workers,

and expertise. The increased sophistication of

weak pre-employment screening procedures

criminal behaviour (such as online fraud) and the

and a lack of supervision contribute towards

willingness to use violence and force, has seen

creating an environment ripe for employee theft.

retailers in Australia and New Zealand struggle to

The findings from this survey demonstrated that

control losses and protect their employees.

retailers are more commonly using point of sale

However, Gentle says that Australians are

54  giftguideonline.com.au


instore

collaborating more with each other, with bodies

All respondents who provided details on their

such as the Profit Protection Future Forum

security solutions were using some form of

bringing retailers together twice a year to discuss

Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS) with the

new developments in the industry.

most popular devices being Radio Frequency

“Knowledge is power and Australian retailers

EAS (used by 57 per cent of respondents),

are beginning to realise that sharing information

spider wraps and keepers (used by 50 per cent

within the industry will keep the industry, as a

of respondents), and secure cable devices (used

whole, ahead of the game.�

by 36 per cent of respondents). RF EAS has

Instore physical loss prevention strategies are

been widely adopted due to its flat footprint, the

broadly broken into two levels: product level

convenience of adhesive tags, and relatively low

(individual items are protected), and store level

installation costs compared to hard tags.

(store-wide monitoring and protection).

Store level

Product level

Closed circuit television (CCTV) and other forms

Retailers are now utilising far more sophisticated

of visual monitoring continues to be heavily

technologies to safeguard products from theft.

invested in and the types of technology being

July 2019  55


continued from page 55

used is becoming diversified. For example,

constant and open communication on these

cameras are now being installed above self-

issues. We have seen from the survey that

service checkout machines to record customers

shoplifters are becoming bolder because

with the aims of promoting honest behaviour.

of the lenient repercussions of retail crime.

While this is likely to offer some deterrence for

In many instances, retailers don’t report the

opportunistic and amateur thieves, it will have

crime due to a lack of resources to submit

less of an impact on professional thieves who

these reports. This has led to an incomplete

simply walk out with the goods.

picture of the extent of retail crime in the

“Technology is an important piece of the puzzle but not the most important. Technology

region,” says Gentle. Semi-professional thieves and organised

such as RF EAS and RFID not only deter

gangs steal to sell goods on. Disrupting the

shoplifters but also provides retailers with

market for stolen goods is another way in which

insight into how shoplifters are behaving.

theft can be tackled, adds Taylor. This requires a

RFID can tell retailers what shoplifters are

coordinated approach between businesses and

stealing and when they are stealing it. This

law enforcement if it is to be successful.

kind of information empowers retailers to act

“Bricks and mortar retailers have a clear idea of

appropriately to protect their merchandise,”

where they are losing stock, but pure-play online

explains Gentle.

or omnichannel retailers are not immune to this

With regards to formal law enforcement,

trend. They are challenged with a lack of visibility

just 20 per cent of respondents feel that they

of last-mile deliveries where the stock could go

are receiving sufficient support to tackle retail

missing due to being stolen from the doorstep,”

crime. While of course the police have to target

says Gentle.

their resources at serious violent crimes, the

“Alternatively, dishonest customers are claiming

lack of response to retail crime makes stores

they have not received items that were actually

more vulnerable to attack. This was a view

delivered. I think we will start to see this becoming

shared by offenders.

a bigger problem as more and more bricks and

“Law enforcement needs to work more closely with retailers to ensure that there is 56  giftguideonline.com.au

mortar retailers transition to online retail.” Source: ANZ Retail Crime Survey 2019

BACK TO CONTENTS


instore

There are a number of ways for staff to steal from employers • straightforward theft of goods and money • under-charging customer accomplices • adjusting delivery dockets • under-ringing purchases at the cash register • deliberately damaging goods to buy at staff discount • using company time and facilities for personal projects • dishonestly adjusting shrinkage records • increasing creditors’ invoices and keeping the difference • replacing perfect items with seconds in the

warehouse or store • adding a last-minute item to the receipt but not ringing it up • picking up receipts for later inclusion in the register as ‘voids’ or ‘refunds’ • keeping a forgetful customer’s change • fraudulent refunding • conspiracies of middle management employees Source: (Geason and Wilson, 1990) Preventing Retail Crime. Australian Institute of Criminology)

July 2019  57


giftguideonline.com.au Source new products, find suppliers and read the latest news all in one place. Sign-up to receive our eNewsletter, twice weekly. instagram.com/ausgiftguide facebook.com/australiangiftguide twitter.com/ausgiftguide pinterest.com/ausgiftguide/ linkedin.com/company/australian-giftguide ISSUU

FOR HOME & LIFESTYLE RETAILERS. EST.1975


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.