Gifts Today

Independently audited

25

ABC circulation of 7,100 1 July 2013 to 30 June 2014

Month: September 2015

Issue: 7

Volume: 26

VILLAGE CANDLE Visit our stand at the Autumn Fair - Hall 5, Stand J30

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Visit us at Autumn Fair 2015 Hall 5 K03

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ONE STOP SHOP FOR PERSONALISED GIFTS Newch

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All products are designed and manufactured at our Stoke-on-Trent premises

Discover the full range at:

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Contents

Regulars

September 2015

6

News

14

Exhibition news

18

Licensing news

20 GA news 28 Trade Talk 110 New products

Retail 24 Brian Wiseman Minimum wage – good thing or disaster waiting to happen?

26 Grass Roots We talk to retailers going to Autumn

P30

Fair

104 Retailer profile

Gifts Today team

We take a look at Bedfordshire-based gift retailer Box of Delights

Editor

Exhibition Previews

Penny Franks penny@lemapublishing.co.uk

Autumn Fair

Assistant Editor Paul Donnelley pauld@lemapublishing.co.uk

30 Autumn Fair 2015

Advertisement Manager

Take a look at what you’ll see in the

Mark Horsnell mark@lemapublishing.co.uk

halls

Group Editor Mirella Cestaro mirella@lemapublishing.co.uk

Top Drawer

Group Advertisement Manager Ryan Horwood ryan@lemapublishing.co.uk

96 Top Drawer 2015

Publisher

What to expect at the London show

Mark Naish mark@lemapublishing.co.uk

Production Director

P96

Paul Naish paul@lemapublishing.co.uk

Show review 108 Home & Gift 2015

Managing Director Malcolm Naish malcolm@lemapublishing.co.uk

What went on at Harrogate

Media Solutions Manager Bradley Mason bradleymason@hotmail.co.uk

Lema Publishing Ltd

PUBLISHING

1 Churchgates, The Wilderness, Berkhamsted, Herts, HP4 2UB Telephone: 01442 289930 A member of the Audit Bureau of Circulation

Independently audited ABC circulation of 7,100 1 July 2013 to 30 June 2014

Profiles P92

48 Price’s Candles 52

Namaste

Product feature 92 Gadgets and gizmos Is it just toys for the boys?

Message from the Editor www.gifts-today.co.uk Twitter: @giftstodaymag exciting new introduction for 2015 - The Light Show.

Continuing to expand on the show format, this year also welcomes for the first time the Caribbean Export Development Agency, a group pavilion of 12 companies from across the Atlantic displaying an eclectic mix of home accessories, handmade cosmetics, jewellery, indigenous pottery and ceramics, leather crafts and natural body and bath products in its first European showcase.

Remember, it’s always wise to pre-register your attendance - simply visit www.autumnfair.co.uk.

We bring you a full preview in this issue, starting on page 30, which we hope will assist you in planning your visit.

Of course, there is more in September - Top Drawer and Home will also open their doors. Also know as one of the UK’s definitive design-led gift trade events, Top Drawer will bring together the latest trends through an extensive range of products. The show is conveniently arranged into five different product sectors: Gift, Stationery & Greetings, Fashion Accessories, Children’s, and Wellbeing; to facilitate an enjoyable browsing experience where buyers can easily locate the products that will make their stores stand out. Again, remember to pre-register to attend by simply visiting www.topdrawer.co.uk.

You will also find our preview starting on page 98 of this issue.

Remember if you spot me at either Autumn Fair or Top Drawer, then stop me and say hello!

Dora Design

The views of the contributors expressed in this journal are not necessarily those of the publisher.

Comments, letters and criticism are welcome.

“

Now a look at September when we will all congregate together at Autumn Fair - and the show organisers (i2i Events) and exhibitors have been hard at work behind the scenes to ensure that you have another opportunity to network, make your stock selections for Christmas and beyond and meet likeminded people

“

H

ome and Gift closed their doors to what could be considered a success all round. The Daily News (brought to you by Gifts Today and Greetings Today) covered each day as it happened and was exceptionally well received by visitors to the show.

There were more than 800 companies who chose Home & Gift as their exhibition of choice and from reports coming in it would appear that outstanding business was done across the four days of the show.

The largest and perhaps most notable change this year was the closure of the marquees at the Cairn Hotel - but this didn’t have a negative impact, in fact quite the opposite. With Joe Davies and Xystos taking centre stage within Hall Q, both reported having perhaps their best Home & Gift.

Visitors also enjoyed the new walkway that connected the halls to the Design Points, including the new Design Point 5, in the grounds of the Majestic Hotel - making the walk through the vast array of exhibitors a much more pleasant experience. You will find our show review in this issue on page 108.

But now a look at September when we will all congregate at Autumn Fair - and the show organisers (i2i Events) and exhibitors have been hard at work behind the scenes to ensure that you have another opportunity to network, meet likeminded people and get to take a look at and make your final selections for not only your Christmas ranges but of course what’s available for you to stock in-store for the beginning of 2016.

Autumn Fair will showcase a superb selection of new products from 1,400 exhibitors across 13 different market categories, with tens of thousands of new product launches that offer superb crossover buying opportunities and countless sectorspecialist products. Show categories are Gift, Contemporary Gift & Home, Children’s Gifts, Toys & Gadgets, Volume Gift & Home, Brands of China, Greetings, Gift & Craft, Fashion Jewellery & Accessories, Home, Table & Kitchen, Body & Bath, Retail Shop, The Summerhouse and – an

Price’s Candles

NEWS

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INTELEX GROUP HIRES FORMER PRESIDENT Intelex Group, the creators of the Warmies range of heatable soft toys, are delighted to announce the recent appointment of Scott Wehrs as President of their North American division, Intelex USA LLC. Scott is the former President and Chief Operating Officer of TY Inc. and during his 11-year tenure there he directed and managed the biggest plush explosion of our lifetime – Beanie Baby. Scott is also past president of Midwest CBK, a leader in the gift industry and recently returned as Chief Administrative Officer and General Manager overseeing all faucets of the Midwest, CBK and ‘G!’ Brands whilst directing the sales of the number one women’s fashion line ‘Simply Noelle’ in the Gift Channel.

Philip Gannon, the founder of Intelex Group, says. “This new appointment is a real game changer for Intelex Group’s North American operations and signals the start of a very exciting new chapter for the business as a whole. Scott has a very unique set of skills, detailed industry knowledge and a real passion for consumer products and plush. His deep relationships with retailers across the giftware industry will undoubtedly help us to widen our distribution footprint and create significant growth opportunities for the Warmies brand.”

Melt Fusions take a lead Best Kept Secrets have recently launched their own

British company uses social media with great success The power of social media has helped boost trade sales of a new British-designed home décor product in its first year. Launched at Spring Fair, the Up In Lights range of alphabet letters, numbers, stars and hearts has had a fantastic response from retailers throughout the UK. Manufacturer Smiling Faces employed an effective pull promotional strategy creating an online buzz with the help of bloggers and vloggers. And consumers have been posting photos online of the letters in use around their homes, at weddings and other events.

The contemporary, high quality, LED-lit letters are made from MDF and can be either wallmounted or displayed free-standing and come in attractive packaging with a space-saving spinner.

The affordable price point makes the range an attractive proposition for a wide variety of gift retailers from independents to garden centres and homeware stores.

See more about the company at www.smilingfaces.co.uk or call the friendly team on 01444 882323. Sales agents are available to visit retailers in most of the UK.

Kenro launches new trade website The well-known UK & Ireland photo and digital products distributor, Kenro Ltd, has launched a new trade website, aimed at making it easier for retailers and trade users to order stock.

The family-run company, established 43 years ago, has an enviable reputation for service and supply of quality goods to the photographic and gift sectors.

After more than a year of consultation and development work, Kenro have launched a trade eCommerce website that provides dealers with a 24-hour ordering facility for all their products - with fast shipping on all in-stock items. All standard orders received by 1pm (Monday-Friday) will be dispatched the same day Kenro is also using a number of social media platforms to promote and enhance the company’s web profile on an ongoing basis - with links from the Kenro homepage to their profiles on Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram and YouTube.

Kenro will be displaying their extensive range of Gift Albums and Gift Frames on stand K05 (Hall 5) at the Autumn Fair, 6th - 9th September, Birmingham NEC. For details of the full Kenro range, please visit www.kenro.co.uk. If you wish to apply to open a trade account, call Kenro’s head office on 01793 615836, or email sales@kenro.co.uk

scented Melt Fusions range, with a dozen of their best selling scents now available in heart shaped wax melts with an emphasis on fragrance quality and vibrant colours and glitter finishes to the melts.

Denise Edwards from Best Kept Secrets commented: ‘Our Melt Fusion range has been a real labour of love, and with distinctive point of sale materials and a great selection of melts we are very proud of our latest range. A starter pack has been produced for new retailers, which offers everything you need to introduce the range to any retail environment.’

Best Kept Secrets will be at the NEC between 6-9th September at Autumn Fair on stand no: 3G-40 For trade enquiries contact: Tel: 01670 512222 Email: sales@bestkeptsecrets.co.uk 6 gifts today

Museums & Galleries increase design options A bookmark gives an attractive and personal touch to a book gift. Museums & Galleries launched their bookmarks range last year, and have rapidly increased the design options as demand has soared. Made of a durable plastic material with a coordinating ribbon, the bookmarks retail at a very affordable £1.49, and M&G can supply a wire frame counter display for hanging up to 12 different designs (12 per design).

Just in time for this autumn’s gift buying season, M&G have added 12 brand new designs exclusively from the design archives of the V&A museum – stunning and richly coloured, these offer a choice suitable to all tastes (and books!)

Web: www.museumsgalleries.co.uk

NEWS

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NAYNA McINTOSH CHOOSES TORQUE

SCENTCHIPS UK LAUNCH SCENTPEARLS Scentchips UK launched their new fragrance product ScentPearls at Home & Gift in July.

ScentPearls are colourful fragrant beads for use in a ScentPearl electric warmer.

Using a low wattage light bulb, the combination creates a warm ambient glow while delivering a powerful fragrant experience. With no naked flame or molten wax, ScentPearls are a safe alternative way to deliver fragrance.

When the ScentPearls are placed in the warmer the gentle heat warms them releasing the wonderful aroma.

ScentPearls are available in 12 fragrances. As with ScentChips wax melts the consumer can create their own fragrance.

The introduction of six new fragrances to the ScentChips collection, brings the total to 90.

Lemon Sage, Baboo and Willow, Fresh Thinking, Guava Tangerine, Garden Party and Tarocco Sea Minerals are the new additions. Also new innovative designs and finishes in the ScentBurner range.

Display stands are available in multiple sizes for retailing the ScentChips range, allowing consumers a relaxing and enjoyable shopping experience while creating their own fragrance recipe.

Tel/Fax: 01259 7510099 Email: service.uk@worldofscentchips.com

Family owned importer seeks agents David Fischhoff is a Manchester-based importer that specialises in memorial/sentiment products, giftware and artificial flowers.

The firm is looking for experienced agents to cover the South West, South East and London.

The ideal candidate will be presentable, diligent, know the products and customer base and have their own vehicle. The role is on a commission only basis.

To discuss further please contact Jonathan Taylor Tel 0161 832 6475 Email Jonathantaylor1@tiscali.co.uk 8 gifts today

One of the leading end-to-end logistics services provider Torque has been chosen by new women’s fashion brand Hope to manage its freight, warehouse and distribution operation.

Hope is a new British womenswear label, created by Nayna McIntosh with the backing of retail veteran Lord Rose, the 65 piece-strong label will include dresses, knitwear, bottoms and tops. It will have its own standalone website from September and will also be sold through pop-up boutiques at home.

Torque will be providing a full suite of services to include: Freight; e-fulfilment; customs support; quality checking; pick and pack; personalisation; distribution and returns management. In addition to these services Torque will also provide a specialist gift wrapping service to include personalised messages.

Explaining the partnership with Torque, Nayna McIntosh, Founder and CEO, Hope, said: “I have worked with Torque for over 20 years, including new brand launches, I am confident they will manage Hope’s fulfilment needs to meet the expectations of our customers.”

Stewart Firth, head of operations, Torque, said: “We are excited to be involved with this new and exciting brand and look forward to working with them to grow into an established and successful label.”

Summer Jigsaw Puzzle Releases from Gibsons The much anticipated 2015 Christmas Limited Edition puzzle has arrived. The 13th puzzle in this ever popular series, each Christmas Limited Edition puzzle has been Gibsons’ bestselling puzzle every year since launch. ‘It’s Christmas!’ is finished in a gold foiled box and each puzzle contains a serial numbered certificate making it an ideal collector’s item.

The company have also forged a new partnership with The Thelwell Estate to produce 2 fabulous puzzles in 500 piece and 1000 piece sizes.

Regarded as the unofficial artist of the British countryside, Thelwell is possibly the most popular cartoonist in Britain since the Second World War and these puzzles provide a delightful blast to the past for older puzzlers, as well as cute and quirky artistic style that even the younger generation will appreciate.

View the range at the Gibsons website, www.gibsonsgames.co.uk.

Beargood appoints Bertelli Communications BearGood design and manufacture a stunning range of teddy bears including jointed bears which make beautiful gifts and keepsakes for little ones such as baby showers, births and christenings. The ethos behind BearGood is simple – the company’s founder Rachel Beasley wanted to create a business with purpose.

BearGood is all about giving something back to help children across the world who are less fortunate and helping give them more opportunities. Therefore, 10% of every single sale is donated to Bear Good’s chosen causes including the non-profit Pencils of Promise and charity SOS Children’s Villages.

Lianne Bertelli, MD at Bertelli Comms comments: “We are delighted to be working with BearGood and love everything that the company stands for. As well as being uncompromising in the quality of their products, the support that they offer to charities make their bears and range of on-trend t-shirts the gifts that keep on giving.”

Rachel Beasley, MD at BearGood added: “As we continue to raise our brand awareness in our first year, appointing a PR agency was our obvious next step. We are really pleased to be working with Lianne who will help to gain coverage for us via traditional media as well as growing our social media channels.”

VILLAGE CANDLE

R

www.villagecandle.co.uk Tel: 01254 300268

Email: sales@villagecandle.co.uk

6-9 SEPTEMBER 2015 Hall 5, Stand C10/D11

Watchword Vases

Equilibrium Sparkle Brooches

Sheaffer Sentinel

Equilibrium Hearts in Hearts

Message Tea-lights

Visage Paperweights

Wood Cut Words

Ember Ceramics

Rustic Steel Lace Frames

Leonardo Classic Paperweights

Joe Davies Limited 149 Broadstone Rd, Reddish, Stockport SK5 7GA

6-9 SEPTEMBER 2015 Tree of Life

Hall 5, Stand C10/D11

Equilibrium for Girls

Equilibrium Totes

Equilibrium Spinning Sentiment

Silver Filigree Elephants

Casablanca Tea-light Holders

Rainy Day Romance

Over 2000 brand new gifts 7500+ lines to choose from Only £100 minimum order FREE Next Day Delivery ‘Little & Often’ Ordering System Award Winning Customer Service Progressive Gifts Greats Awards 2015

13 times winners Provence Butterfly Frames

Leonardo Mrs Smith

Best Service to the Independent Retailer

Tel: 0161 975 6300 Fax: 0161 975 6301 Email: sales@joedavies.co.uk www.joedavies.co.uk

NEWS

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New personalised gifting website IJustLoveIt.co.uk launches The new website aims to provide gift buyers, and receivers, with high-quality, unique and customisable gifts with an unrivalled customer experience.

IJustLoveIt.co.uk, which is a relaunch of gifting website GoneDigging.co.uk, was established as a result of consumer research carried out by the gifting company. Research findings concluded GoneDigging.co.uk was well-loved, however it also unveiled new demographics with different wants and needs. The gifting company wanted to fulfil these needs in order to provide even better customer service.

Customers have been in the forefront for the entire re-launch process. A research poll was created to help decide the new name of the site, and IJustLoveIt.co.uk was selected as it incorporates genuine feedback from customers, while also showcasing the emotions the company wants every customer to feel when receiving a gift.

The research also provided feedback and requests for the layout of the website, resulting in a complete redesign for IJustLoveIt.co.uk. The new platform is more user-friendly and visually engaging for all visitors, featuring easy-to-navigate product pages, quick and easy personalisation and higher-quality images.

Portmeirion Group reaches the final Tableware manufacturer, Portmeirion Group’s inaugural Ted Baker Portmeirion Rosie Lee collection has been shortlisted as a finalist in the prestigious Licensing Awards 2015.

The stunning 41-piece vintage floral bone fine china dinnerware collection, beat tough competition to make the shortlist for this year’s ‘Best Licensed Home Décor, Tableware or Housewares range’.

Now in its ninth year, the annual Licensing Awards aim to reward and celebrate the UK’s top retailers, licensees, licensors and industry suppliers and after the success of the 2014 awards is set to be a key event in the industry calendar.

Phil Atherton, the Group sales and marketing director at Portmeirion Group said: “We’re delighted to have reached the final of the Licensing Awards. We are extremely proud of the collections we have produced in partnership with Ted Baker and for Rosie Lee to be shortlisted alongside five other fantastic brands is a huge honour. With its style and eye-catching prints, the Ted Baker Portmeirion Rosie Lee collection has been a great hit with customers.”

Stoke-on-Trent based Portmeirion Group launched the striking Rosie Lee collection earlier this spring as part of its landmark partnership agreement with iconic fashion house, Ted Baker. Inspired by the designers Spring/ Summer 2015 apparel collections the dinnerware range features a delicate floral print set on a mismatching pastel palette.

The Licensing Awards ceremony will take place in London on 15 September, where the winners of each category will be revealed.

Inspiration with V&A In its position as the world’s leading museum of art and design the Victoria and Albert Museum has always been a place of inspiration. Its extraordinarily diverse collections inspire excellence in design and drive and excite designers, retailers and manufacturers across the world.

Its award winning licensing programme continues the museum’s founding principles. It provides an exclusive resource for research and design of all products developed under the ‘Inspired’ label. In identifying patterns or styles that are seasonally on trend, licensees are given scope to adapt colours and highlight particular details to give the designs relevance and appeal. The products have a visual language that is recognisable in the global market. Categories include homeware, apparel, jewellery, accessories, stationery and gifts. Many of the V&A’s licensees are present at international gift shows such as the International Spring and Autumn Fairs at the NEC, New York Now and Maison et Objet in Paris.

Provenance is key throughout V&A licensed products, from packaging to marketing, ensuring customers feel confident they are buying something authentic. The additional appeal to the consumer is that all profits are covenanted to the V&A to help it to maintain its position as the world’s greatest collection of art and design, funding exhibitions, research, conservation and collecting for the future.

2015 has been a very exciting year so far for the V&A, Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty 12 gifts today

was the most successful exhibition the Museum has staged in its entire history. The popularShoes: Pleasure and Pain will be open until March 2016.

These high profile shows are expected to generate more interest from new licensees who will value the desirable brand association.

Email: licensing@vam.ac.uk Web: www.vandalicensing.com

Official Licensed Product

Birmingham 6th–9th September Autumn Fair International NEC Hall 3, Stand 3W04–X03

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NEWS

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Window Display Competition Winners Announced Enesco are delighted to announce that the winner of their 2015 Wedding or Baby themed window display competition is Your Unique Chique in Alton, an M&S voucher for £400 will be arriving with them shortly. Your Unique Chique picked a Beatrix Potter theme and not only created a wonderful window display but also spread the display throughout the town of Alton.

The team at Enesco were overwhelmed with the effort and creativity of their dedicated retailers; the following also really deserve a special mention.

• Off the Wall, Hereford • Abracadabra, Sedburgh • Simply Gorgeous Gifts, Brampton • The Samovar, Melksham • Lanchester Country Home & Gift, Lanchester

Summer Jigsaw Puzzle Releases from Gibsons The much anticipated 2015 Christmas limited edition puzzle has arrived. The 13th puzzle in this ever popular series, each Christmas Limited Edition puzzle has been Gibsons’ bestselling puzzle every year since launch.

‘It’s Christmas!’ is finished in a gold foiled box and each puzzle contains a serial numbered certificate making it an ideal collector’s item.

The company have also forged a new partnership with The Thelwell Estate to produce two fabulous puzzles

in 500 piece and 1000 piece sizes.

Regarded as the unofficial artist of the British countryside, Thelwell is possibly the most popular cartoonist in Britain since the Second World War and these puzzles provide a delightful blast to the past for older puzzlers, as well as cute and quirky artistic style that even the younger generation will appreciate.

View the range at the Gibsons website, www. gibsonsgames.co.uk

Fulfilling feedback promise One consignment and a single invoice is the offer to Carte Blanche customers after they celebrated the official opening of their new-style fulfillment operation this week.

Independent retailers knew something was about to happen after receiving a letter from CEO Alister Marchant last month revealing reductions in the Wishing Well brand prices and an apology for not keeping to their own high standards.

Making the most of the summer, Chairman and Founder Stephen Haines held a barbecue for staff at the company’s Chicester base and enrolled longest-serving Fulfillment Centre Team member Simeon Furniss to help with the opening ceremony.

Stephen is pictured, left, with Simeon, who has been with Carte Blanche for almost 18 years, and Tatty Teddy as they cut the aptly-coloured blue ribbon at the centre to welcome the team to tours of the new operation.

Investment to turn the company’s warehouse into a Fulfilment Centre has been several years in planning so from September 1 orders for plush, gifts and greetings cards

across Carte Blanche’s broad portfolio of brands, including Me To You, Hotchpotch and Wishing Well Studios, will be fulfilled from one location so customers can have it delivered in one consignment and with a single invoice.

Carte Blanche have also invested in new fulfilment partners, DPD and Interlink Express, in a move that Customer Relations Manager Chris Barrett said will significantly improve service to independent retailers.

This investment is just one part of Carte Blanche’s ongoing commitment to provide an industry-leading service which was demonstrated by last month’s open letter to independent customers last month where Alister showed how the firm are actively responding to feedback.

Tel: 01243 792600 Web: www.cbg.co.uk

exhibition news

SCOTLAND’S TRADE FAIR AUTUMN ALL SET FOR SEPTEMBER Take up of exhibition space, at Scotland’s Trade Fair Autumn, to be held at the SECC from 20-21 September 2015 is already 5% higher than the total last year and is expected to be at least 12% more when the exhibition opens.

The Show offers buyers a last chance opportunity to stock up on goods pre-Christmas and is an important purchasing opportunity for the independent gift shops throughout Scotland.

With the welcome news of modest increases in 2nd quarter retail sales this year, particularly from smaller shops, the trade is looking forward to a positive two days of trade at the SECC. In the Launch Gallery another 11 start-up companies will participate for the first time, exhibiting a selection of highly original and commercial goods. Particularly striking are Claire Baird Designs, Clyde Candles, Joy Tots, Stones of Scotland, Emma June Designs and Stripykat.

This trade fair always attracts many established brand names such as Glen Appin, Chris Lewis, The Just Slate Co, Sheila Fleet, Lomond Books, McLaggan Smith Mugs, Pewtermill, Estella Bartlett Jewellery, All Fired Up, Pigment Productions, Angela Learoyd Jewellery and Tartan Twist to name a few.

Register now at: www.scotlandstradefairs.co.uk 14 gifts today

exhibition news

Bumper event on the cards With over fourth months to go until Harrogate Christmas & Gift, the organisers advise that the show is almost sold out, with existing exhibitors reserving larger stand spaces and numerous new companies jumping on board.

Hall A, which is now fully booked includes new exhibitors Global Journey – bringing an exciting range of music and jewellery; and Lemax Europe – a worldwide leader in collectable village miniatures.

Another new exhibitor in Hall B, which is also fully booked, is Koopman of Holland with a huge and diverse catalogue of products for all occasions.

Hall M is now full and once again Premier Decorations has booked Hall H in its entirety launching new ranges from it Christmas, Outdoor Living and Halloween collections. Also, with lots of new products on offer, Heaven Sends and RJB Stone have both significantly increased their stand sizes for 2016.

Simon Anslow, show organiser, comments: “Harrogate Christmas & Gift continues to go from strength to strength and is now considered the number one trade show for garden centre and visitor attraction buyers as well as department stores and independent gift retailers. We have experienced a year on year increase in visitor numbers for the past five years and with so many new exhibitors joining the show, we can expect another bumper event in 2016.”

Web: www.harrogatefair.com

Getting lucky with Giving & Living Everyone who booked into the Giving & Living trade show in July was in with a chance of winning a fantastic marketing package worth over £1250. The winner of this great offer was Oriele Bronze & Glass who are back at the show in 2016, and produce a range of quality sculpture of mainly British wildlife. You’ll find them at the show in the Designed & Made in Britain area. Why not have a look at their range at www.philipturnercrafts.co.uk?

“I decided to exhibit at Giving & Living again next year to meet with many existing and hopefully many new customers here in the South West, where I’m based, promoting a British made product.

Many thanks to the Hale Events team for the “advertising package” draw prize which will be very helpful in my promotions for 2016. I am looking forward to exhibiting at the show in January to start off the new season”. Philip Turner, Oriele Bronze & Glass.

75% of stands have already been sold, so if you missed out on the July offer, why not book your space during September for another chance to win?

Giving & Living takes place at the Westpoint Exhibition Centre, Exeter, and runs from Sunday 17th January to Wednesday 20th January 2016. For more information about the show, to book a stand, or pre-register to attend, please call 01934 733433, follow @ giving_living, or visit www.givingliving.co.uk.

16 gifts today

Only at Christmasworld…

Confirming itself as one of the most important business opportunites for the decorations sector on the trade fair calendar, the 2016 edition of Christmasworld has already booked 95 percent of exhibitor space!

The world’s leading international trade fair for seasonal decoration takes place in Frankfurt am Main, 29th January to 2nd February 2016. Over 920 international brands offer latest products and innovations to over 33,300 trade visitors and with the exhibitor halls already near to fully booked, next year’s edition is shaping up to be a success.

The trade fair brings the exhibition centre to life with festive light shows and elegant design showcasing a diverse product spectrum in all shapes, colours and facets. Trade visitors will find advent and Christmas decorations, seasonal indoor and outdoor decorations, impressive shop window and large-scale decorations for city centres, shopping malls and hotels. No matter whether it is spring, summer, autumn or Easter, a christening, communion, weddings, Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day or a birthday, trade visitors will find decorative accessories and articles for every occasion.

Expertly designed exhibitor halls place exhibitors into product groups which helps trade visitors navigate to exactly where they need to be. Christmasworld is a chance to explore the industry, seek new retail collections and connect with international business contacts.

Amongst the 7 product groups; Christmas & Advent, Seasonal Decoration & Gifts, Florists’ Requisites & Garden Decorations, Visual Merchandising & Light, Candles & Fragrances, Ribbons & Wrapping, Asian Christmas & Decoration, trade visitors are sure to find the 2015/16 seasonal trends and product launches.

Christmasworld buyers benefit from valuable synergistic effects generated by the two concurrently held fairs: Paperworld the leading international trade fair for paper, office supplies and stationery – and Creativeworld, the world of art and craft supplies, both held 30th January to 2nd February 2016. Tickets enable entrance to all three trade fairs and will be available online soon. For more information, go to www.christmasworld.messefrankfurt. com

+DUURJDWH &KULVWPDV *LIW

10th - 13th January 2016

Book your stand online today

www.harrogatefair.com

licensing news

Widdop’s Classic Winnie the Pooh – Licensing Awards Finalist

An expanded licensed portfolio

The Licensing Awards have announced their category finalists and one finalist appearing for the very first time in the gift category is Widdop Bingham with their Classic Winnie the Pooh collection of baby gifts. The range draws its inspiration from the much-loved illustrations of EH Shepard which have delighted adults and children down the years since they first appeared in the 1920s.

The range, launched at the Spring Fair this year, has gone on to delight the retail trade in its own way appealing to retailers right across the spectrum. And the range now goes on to take its rightful place as a Licensing Award finalist with the results being announced at a sparkling ceremony at the Grosvenor Hotel in Mayfair in September.

Puckator have expanded their portfolio of officially licensed giftware to include designs from Frozen.

Frozen has enjoyed massive commercial success and is claimed to be the best Disney animated musical feature film in recent years. Also, with a Frozen 2 set to be released in the next few years, these hand warmers and hot water bottles are certainly a must-have item for gift retailers this festive season.

Tel: 0800 011 6969 Email: customerservices@puckator.co.uk Web: www.puckator.co.uk

Happy Birthday Peanuts!

Available from Enesco, the Peanuts by Jim Shore Designs features the characters from the ever-popular Peanuts comic strip including Snoopy, Charlie Brown, Lucy and Woodstock. Charles M. Schulz began drawing the comic strip in 1950. The second launch to the popular figurine collection includes a special celebratory piece and eleven other figurines.

The witty personalities expressed by each piece are enhanced by Jim Shore’s colourful folk-art inspired decorations.

In Hooray!, an iconic figurine to mark Peanuts’ 65th birthday, Snoopy, Charlie Brown and the gang dance and sing in celebration. Cheerful Christmas themed pieces reveal Snoopy and his endearing friends full of festive spirit as they sing carols and take part in the Nativity Play.

Additionally, two amusing models show Snoopy entangled in fairy lights as he trims the tree and with Woodstock adding the finishing seasonal decorations to his home.

Meanwhile, at an impressive 38cm in height the figurine, Friendship Comes in all Shapes and Sizes, is the perfect gift for friends.

Fans will have more to cheer about later this year, when The Peanuts Movie, a new animated feature from Blue Sky Studios will hit cinema screens worldwide.

Web: www.enesco.co.uk

Jumbo Games adds Poldark to its Adult Puzzles Portfolio Jumbo Games is pleased to announce that it has agreed a new UK licence deal for adult puzzles with ITV Studios Global Entertainment for the period drama series, Poldark.

Jumbo are already one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of adult puzzles, this new licence is a great acquisition for Jumbo Games and will strengthen what is already a very impressive portfolio. The deal will see Jumbo release a selection of Poldark-themed adult puzzles, starting with a 1,000 pieces puzzle in autumn/winter 2015. Subsequent releases will follow in 2016.

Commenting on the news Katherine Pierce, Head of Marketing & Licensing at Jumbo Games, said: “We are thrilled to announce our latest acquisition. Given that the show attracted an average of 7.5 million viewers we anticipate this being a very popular product and a great addition to our current licence portfolio.”

The Good Dinosaur roars into an exciting new card game gift box Cartamundi, one of the world’s market leaders in playing cards and card games, has announced the launch of a three-in-one gift box of card games inspired by The Good Dinosaur, Disney•Pixar’s epic journey into the world of dinosaurs.

Available to pre-order now and arriving at toyshops, gift shops and supermarkets in October, The Good Dinosaur gift box retails at £7.99. Aimed at a core market of children aged four and up, it will contain a Happy Families game, a pairs game and a puzzle, all illustrated with images from the adventures of Arlo the Apatosaurus and his unlikely friendship with a little cave boy named Spot.

Both the packaging of the three-in-one gift box and the cards will contain stunning artwork featuring the leading characters — Arlo, his family and Spot, as well as some of the friendly (and not-so-friendly) creatures Arlo and Spot meet on their travels.

Trudi Bishop, Head of Marketing and Licensing, Cartamundi Group, says: “With all the invention and creativity we’ve come to expect, The Good Dinosaur looks like another exciting release for Pixar and Disney. The engaging imagery in particular is perfect for our three-in-one gift box which, like the film, we hope will be a big Christmas hit with children and families everywhere.”

18 gifts today

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GA news

Gift of the Year opens doors Gift of the Year 2015 winners who exhibited at Home & Gift spoke enthusiastically about the competition and how their businesses are developing.

My Gifts Trade not only won the Made in UK category for Hinchcliffe & Barber’s Songbird Grey Ceramics, but also scooped The Judges’ Choice award with the same range.

My Gifts Trade director Paul Connett said that winning had “opened doors”. Anna Rigby of John Lewis had voted for the range, but the company was advised by the retailer at a GA Meet the Buyer event that it should consider widening it as JLP would need more product before merchandising it in its stores.

“We listened to what they said and their feedback has helped. We have expanded the range with the same designs and now have gardening products and more homeware. Nearly everything we have produced they like and they have signed off most of it.”

Stone Glow Candles won the Home Fragrance category with its Modern Apothecary Candles and the range was due to go into John Lewis stores at the end of July.

Stone Glow chairman Perry Simmons said: “Gift of the Year has a lot of credibility and holding it at Spring Fair certainly drives people to the stand. We have given out the winners’ cards to our stockists so that they can display them next to the products. We are now working on a range to enter into the 2016 competition. It would be nice to win two years in a row.”

Demand for The Art File range FORM continues to

increase, according to sales co-ordinator James Mace.

It won the Card and Wrap category as a first-time entrant and the three skyline cards – of New York, Paris and London – “sell tremendously well”. Two more will be added towards the end of the year.

“Getting an accolade from Gift of the Year is a great achievement as there are some pretty handy people looking at your products and passing their judgement – and we are very thankful for that. We got a lot more interest after winning, and having the presentations at Spring Fair helps quite a lot. The award stands tall in the entrance hall of our offices in Nottingham,” said James.

Beefayre won Body, Bath and Spa with the Waggledance Collection, whose products are free from parabens and sulphates, vegan friendly and PETA certified.

Its founder, Sharon Jervis, commented. “Winning raises your profile. People came onto our stand and bought after seeing the product in the showcase at Spring Fair. We will be entering this year and have a few little surprises that we are working on and nominating those.”

Adam Langley, Professor Puzzle’s head of sales, said that the Fascination Star Wars 3D Metal Construction Kits “really kicked us into licensing and is one of our best-selling lines”.

It took the Branded/Character prize and the company was “really excited to have the range and to have won the award”, which drove traffic to its stand at Spring Fair.

Laura’s brush with success Internationally known designer Nick Munro presented The Giftware Association’s prize for students at this year’s Pewter Live event, the annual competition staged by The Worshipful Company of Pewterers to promote the versatility of pewter and its use in the manufacture of contemporary household objects.

Laura Colebrooke of Truro College won the award for her Camelia make-up brush set, which was adjudged to be on-trend and have real commercial viability. Highly commended for The GA prize was Stacey West from Plymouth College of Art and Design whose Found Treasures hand-made necklace mixed pewter with silver and precious gemstones.

As winner, Laura will benefit from free membership of The GA – should 20 gifts today

Seminars GA vice-chairman Henri Davis will hold seminars at Autumn Fair on ‘Setting Up in Independent Retail, on the High Street or Online’. Please check at www.autumnfair. com nearer the show for venues, dates and timings.

she decide to go into business when she leaves college – and free entry for her designs in Gift of the Year 2016 or a future competition, as well as free publicity in the gift trade media.

Joining The GA The GA signed up 45 retailer subscribers and 12 new members at Home & Gift.

www.ga-uk.org

CUSTOMISED CONTRACT CANDLE AND OWN LABEL MANUFACTURE PARKS HAVE LITERALLY MADE THOUSANDS OF OWN LABEL CANDLES AND PERFUME DIFFUSERS FOR MAJOR HIGH STREET RETAILERS, PRESTIGIOUS DEPARTMENT STORES, INDEPENDENT RETAIL SHOPS, INTERNATIONALLY RECOGNISED PERFUME AND COSMETIC COMPANIES, SALONS, SPAS, FLORISTS, EXCLUSIVE GARDEN CENTRES, HOTELS, EVENT ORGANISERS AND ALL SECTIONS OF THE RETAIL TRADE.

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Come & Visit Us at Maison & Objet 4-8 September 2015 Hall 5A Stand G37

Village Candle

Hall 5, Stand: J30

See the transformation at Village Candle Village Candle UK Ltd was conceived and opened for business almost three years ago and the transformation in this relatively short time has been nothing short of remarkable. In this period they have opened more than 1000 accounts from large garden centre multiples to small independent gift shops.

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he Village Candle ethos is simple, offer great quality products at very competitive prices and back it up with a dedicated customer service team. This commitment to their customers is why they have already firmly established themselves in a very competitive market place More than 70 fragrance combinations are now offered through three candle jars, votives and wax melt packs.

All their fragranced wax items are produced in the U.S to the highest standards and use only the finest materials available. They offer more than 80 different and exclusive designs through their candle accessory collections.

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The home fragrance market has never been more buoyant and popular and the key to continued success is to offer retailers and consumers something new and innovative each season. This season is no exception as Village Candle introduce 12 new fragrances, seven new limited edition fragrances and more than 30 new candle accessory collections. New titles include Celebration, Christmas on the Beach, Coffee Bean, Eucalyptus Mint, Fall Fun, Hard Cider, Home for Christmas, Peppermint Bark, Powder Fresh, Red Hot Cinnamon, Sleigh Ride and Smoked Birch. Their limited edition fragrances include Campfire Tales, Decadence, Harvest Moon Santa’s Village, Naughty or Nice, Nutcracker and Sugarplum Fairy.

Consumers are always looking for a fragrance that truly captures the warmth and nostalgia that the festive period delivers. Village Candle dual wicked candles create a fantastic ambience to further enhance this experience. Mulled Ciders, Cedar & Pine, Ground Nutmeg & Cinnamon, Nantucket Cranberries, Mandarin & Siberian Balsam, Rum & Berries, Damask Plum & Pomegranate are just a few of the fragrance combinations they have available to

ensure all homes can re-ignite that special memory or create the perfect Christmas environment.

This season has seen Village Candle launch some brand new products which are already proving very popular with their retailers.

Dri-Tec reeds and aroma jars Dri-Tec reeds are a revolutionary home fragrance product that use no liquid in production and are made from recycled paper that is infused with high

Accessory collections No-one offers the varied candle accessory collections that Village Candle offer. Not only do these items compliment their entire fragranced wax ranges they are also a perfect fit for all other leading brand suppliers of candle jars and candle related products. Our accessory items are exclusive in the main and are produced by a team of in-house designers. New Christmas items have been introduced incorporating traditional and novelty designs. Golds,

The home fragrance market has never been more buoyant and popular and the key to continued success is to offer retailers and consumers something new and innovative each season levels of fragrance. They are 100% eco-friendly and the fragrance throw lasts for up to six weeks. Aroma jars have been included that can be used with our dri-tec products or any other type of reed diffuser or oil related item.

Twelve unique designs are available in these glass mosaic containers which come complete with a decorative metal lid. At ÂŁ8.99 retail these represent fantastic value for money.

Gel and vent clip air fresheners After continual customer requests Village Candle have now introduced a new range of gel and vent clip car air fresheners. Six popular fragrances are available in these two designs.

silver and reds have been used in the popular mosaic ranges along with many new colours introduced into the core items. Electric melt burners have been highly popular through spring and now new Christmas versions have been introduced.

Un-fragranced candle range Whilst fragranced products will always be the primary product of Village Candle their introduction of an unfragranced range has been met with a very positive response. Red, white and ivory make up the core collection with metallic gold, silver and red added for the festive period. Each colour is offered in six various sized

Consumers are always looking for a fragrance that truly captures the warmth and nostalgia that the festive period delivers. Village Candle dual wicked candles create a fantastic ambience to further enhance this experience pillar candles along with tea light and dinner candle packs. To compliment this range candle plates are offered in four colours and two sizes.

Village Candle would like to welcome all customers new and old to visit them at this year’s Autumn Fair at the NEC Birmingham. If you are unable to visit please do not hesitate to request a catalogue from their head office, arrange a sales agent appointment, visit them at their showrooms or simply browse their updated website.

Tel: 01254 300268 Email: sales@villagecandle.co.uk Web: www.villagecandle.co.uk

gifts today 23

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Special - Brian Wiseman of Present Company

n a m e s i W n a i r B e h t e d g a an w m u m mini There is very considerable apprehension in the home and gift industry from suppliers and Brian Wiseman

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he weather provided a cool and grey backdrop to this year’s excellent Home & Gift Fair as well as some sharp showers. The show featured many improvements. Undoubtedly the most convenient was the provision of a link to form a circular route. And although it was a pity to lose the pretty space outside the Majestic façade, the new greetings card marquee proved a very popular addition. We placed orders with several suppliers that are new to us.

Harrogate is a sociable event and gives a welcome opportunity to discuss issues with suppliers as well as other retailers.

Two subjects seemed to prevail.

So what were these subjects?

The first was the radical introduction of the National Living Wage, accompanied by a scaling back of the tax credits scheme.

The minimum wage currently stands at £6.50 per hour for workers aged 21 and over. This will rise by 20p to £6.70 per hour this October. The new National Living Wage will make its debut in April 2016 at £7.20 and the Government has targeted a further rise to £9.00 by 2020, 24 gifts today

retailers alike at the impact of these measures

though it should be noted that these new rates apply to workers of 25 years and over.

Meanwhile the new Automatic Enrolment Pension is making its phased introduction, requiring an employer’s contribution of 1% of the employee’s wage.

This will rise to 3% in October 2018.

There is very considerable apprehension in the home and gift industry from suppliers and retailers alike at the impact of these measures. Gifts Today is not an appropriate forum for the politics of the National Living Wage, but it certainly is a very suitable place for a debate on the affordability of the rapid implementation.

What challenges will it bring to your business and the distributive industry?

Will the retail industry change the way it recruits, employs and retains staff ?

We have signed for up to Living Wage Foundation’s initiative to pay at least their minimum rate of £7.85 per hour for those aged 18 and over. We have a tiny workforce and have already implemented the increase. It is a movement we wanted to add our name to.

The other talking point at Harrogate seemed to be the increasing interest shown by garden centres in home and gift products. Naturally, it is the big suppliers that are featuring so dominantly in the major garden centres and it is causing great concern to many independents who have valued these brands over the years, and indeed often believe that it is their efforts that have built those successes. I fully understand that the owners of these desirable brands face pressures of their own and now need the very high profile exposure that multiple retailers offer or risk marginalisation. This seems to leave the independents looking for products that they feel they can call their own, but many are loath to throw away excellent product ranges that still generate sales as well as customer loyalty. The increasing presence of garden centres seems to me to be entirely symptomatic of failing town centres and a marked return of the home and gift trade to its roots in leisure.

Returning to the subject of the new

Automatic Enrolment Pension, the cockles of my heart are always warmed by politicians’ passionate declarations of affection for the small business sector, usually accompanied by glowing imagery of bonfires of red tape. So I wonder quite what terrors face us as we square up to the prospect of new pension laws so onerous that we must, we are told by the Pension Regulator, spend fully ONE YEAR preparing for implementation.

It is a sad fact that, however fired up by a news story that stirs our souls with outrage or sympathy, news stories generally have a short shelf life and we all move on. But I have a sneaking presentiment that this summer’s big story of profiteering big business will prove rather more enduring.

Never again will arrogant demands for boarding passes at airport airside shops be the same. And for those retailers who have been caught out? Maybe there will be a desire to repay all that VAT and duty reclaimed and not passed on? Because tax avoidance by the rich and powerful is beginning to appear very antisocial indeed.

And the reputation of the retail industry has been dealt a damning and damaging blow by these murky and underhand proceedings.

Do you watch Benidorm? Yes, delicious, waspish and very funny. Madge insists on riding a mobility scooter despite no apparent inability to walk. We were astounded to see an old boy ride into our shop, proceed to the far end, dismount, bodily lift the scooter, turn it 180 degrees and exit. Quite remarkable.

Our last major UK trade fair of the year will be the exceptionally useful Autumn Fair which will be taking place at the National Exhibition Centre from 6th and 9th September. See you there.

Brian Wiseman has owned home and gift shop Present Company in Burgess Hill, West Sussex for 28 years. Brian’s wife Louise is buyer and stands at very nearly 6 feet tall – who’s feeling brave enough to demand her boarding pass at an airside shop? brian_presentco@yahoo.co.uk

Grass Roots This issue we ask retailers their thoughts on Autumn Fair Graeme Miles Apple Pie Shop, Gloucester Are you visiting Autumn Fair this year? If so, what are your expectations?

I am going yes.

I like to attend Spring Far and Autumn Fair because I like to see what new ranges have come out from my suppliers and I am always on the lookout for new products so it’s a good opportunity to have a good browse around and see what’s out there.

Is there a particular product that you are looking for, e.g., fragranced gifts, women’s gift items, household gifts?

All sorts really. I am looking for some things that will appeal to children.

I’ve a broad range of products suitable for adults. And also something that is not available in the town. I know that doesn’t really narrow it down. I suppose I am looking at existing suppliers as well as trying to find new ones I am looking for what ranges that they have brought in that I haven’t seen before. For example, Evans of Litchfield and their cushions. I know they have a few new designers working with them now. I’m quite excited to see what ranges they have come up with.

Wall packs’ wall art, greetings cards and gift wrap, general stationery items and I want to visit the cosmetic stands and viewing their ranges too.

Do you have a must visit list and if so, who is on it?

I always have to go and have a look around Joe Davies. I have seen quite a few things on their website that I am keen to check out. I always go to the stationery hall to see what things pop out.

What time of the year are you normally buying for when in attendance?

At the Autumn Fair it tends to be the run up to Christmas. I try not to think about Christmas until I go to Autumn Fair. That’s mainly because I don’t have the storage facilities or necessarily the buying power to be that organised. I think during the course of the year customers give you ideas of what they are looking for. Just seeking new items to tempt them in.

26 gifts today

Sarah Haydn Bicester Bazaar, Bicester Are you visiting Autumn Fair this year? If so, what are your expectations?

Yes, I have been going for the last eighteen, nineteen years. I also go to Spring Fair and Harrogate fair.

Is there a particular product that you are looking for, e.g., fragranced gifts, women’s gift items, household gifts?

We go to look for contemporary fine art or gift lines.

Do you have a must visit list and if so, who is on it?

Not so much for the Autumn Fair; it used to be. If you said Spring Fair then yes there was this company, that company we used to have to go to. At Autumn Fair it is now mixed. We are definitely going to see Enesco.

What time of the year are you normally buying for when in attendance?

It all depends. The Spring one is for the whole year, the general collections. Autumn is for Christmas. We don’t do Christmas in a big way so we don’t need to go to a Christmas show and order months in advance. We just go and see what is about for Christmas items plus also late stock items for Hallowe’en.

Susan Crook Alresford Gift Shop, Alresford Are you visiting Autumn Fair this year?

If so, what are your expectations?

Yes. I am going. I have only ever been to Spring Fair once so I would imagine that Autumn Fair would be the same thing but on a smaller scale. But it is still very worthwhile us going because I am relatively new to the business and I want to look at a number of companies that will be there.

Is there a particular product that you are looking for, e.g., fragranced gifts, women’s gift items, household gifts?

We do cards and gifts here so something specific would be slate. We are also looking for companies that make jewellery.

Do you have a must visit list and if so, who is on it?

We haven’t done one yet but we will before set out. We haven’t had time to think about it, we will know before we go who we want to visit. We tend to think it has to be quite planned out. We have to do that because we are only going to spend one day, which is unusual. We are definitely going to Widdop Bingham, we will have a look at Joe Davies and maybe Shiruti.

What time of the year are you normally buying for when in attendance?

We will be buying for autumn/Christmas generally and topping up what we have already got. We did manage to buy Christmas at Spring Fair. It is a bit difficult for us because we have only been doing this a year so we are still getting into the swing of things.

Sean Austin

Janice Takoor

Austin & Co, Malvern

Bluebell Designs, Walton-on-Thames, Surrey

Are you visiting Autumn Fair this year? If so, what are your expectations?

I must admit that in the past few years Autumn Fair has gone down the list for me. I have been favouring smaller shows Top Drawer, PG Live and the Stationery Show. But I don’t want to miss it. I hope to find something new that has not existed elsewhere.

Is there a particular product that you are looking for, e.g., fragranced gifts, women’s gift items, household gifts?

For me it is anything made of paper – greetings cards, stationery. I am particularly keen to increase my area of paper gifts i.e. items that are actually made of paper.

Do you have a must visit list and if so, who is on it?

I try to get to my current suppliers to touch base with them and see what they have. Once I get the little black book through and make a list from that. Gone are the days when I just went in and was like a magpie walking around and seeing shiny things that distracted me.

What time of the year are you normally buying for when in attendance?

It’ll be mostly topping up for Christmas at Autumn Fair, see what gaps I am missing.

Are you visiting Autumn Fair this year? If so, what are your expectations?

Yes, we are. We are hoping for lots of nice new products and to find some new suppliers.

Is there a particular product that you are looking for, e.g., fragranced gifts, women’s gift items, household gifts?

I don’t think there is a particular product but we are always on the lookout for something different. We find items in the baby category hard to cater for… and men.

Do you have a must visit list and if so, who is on it?

No, we start at the beginning and work our way around. That way we get to see everyone and can spot the new suppliers we might like to work with. We will look out for certain companies and if we don’t see them we wonder where they are and might look for them.

What time of the year are you normally buying for when in attendance?

At Autumn Fair we will be looking for Christmas time. We probably focus more on gifts.

Sue Wright Bourne End Cards and Gifts, Bourne End, Bucks

Michelle Ellingham Box of Delights, Flitwick, Bedfordshire.

Are you visiting Autumn Fair this year? If so, what are your expectations?

Yes, we are. Obviously as always we will try to find something new and different.

We will do our last minute buying for Christmas.

Is there a particular product that you are looking for, e.g., fragranced gifts, women’s gift items, household gifts?

Not necessarily. We are looking for anything that would fit into the theme of our shop up to Christmas. Something perhaps that people haven’t seen before; something that will be the next big thing.

Do you have a must visit list and if so, who is on it?

I don’t because I like to go there with an open mind. I try to do buying before the show so I can look for new things while I am there. I buy from Junction 18, Shiruti, Powder, Stone Glow, East of India, La-de-Da – we deal with lots of nice companies. Candles is an area we will be looking at it. We do an awful lot of candles. We deal with Melt who are great.

What time of the year are you normally buying for when in attendance?

Up to Christmas and probably some St Valentine’s. We are also looking for window displays for Christmas. We have three windows so we will look for something that will grab you when you go into the shop.

Are you visiting Autumn Fair this year? If so, what are your expectations?

Oh yes, we are. I spend three days there. I shall be looking for Christmas presents. I shall be placing some orders at the show. I shall be checking out my existing suppliers. I shall be checking out the quality before I buy. I shall be doing all the halls, looking at gifts and jewellery, that sort of thing.

Is there a particular product that you are looking for, e.g., fragranced gifts, women’s gift items, household gifts?

I shall definitely be looking for scarves, definitely looking for jewellery, definitely looking for general gifts. We do mugs so will be looking for any new designs.

Do you have a must visit list and if so, who is on it?

I shall definitely be checking out Joe Davies. There is a German company called Out of the Blue and I will be getting all my stocking fillers from them. We will definitely be ordering from them.

What time of the year are you normally buying for when in attendance?

It will be now till Christmas; a lot will be top-up orders. A lot will be companies like Really Good, Jellicat, Xpressions 4 U. We are looking for the slightly different Christmas gifts, which come from a company called Thinking Gifts, which were very good for us last year. I spend three days there. It’s brilliant. It’s my holiday.

It takes me from morning time to closing to get round. It’s very well worth it. The show is essential to us.

gifts today 27

Trade talk

Gifts Today loves to hear your views. This month we speak to key wholesalers and suppliers to learn what’s on their minds.

We ask some of the industry’s finest their thoughts on Autumn Fair Philip Gannon CEO and Founder, Intelex Group.

Why is Autumn Fair important to you?

Intelex Group started out in business twenty years ago with a 3x3 meter shell scheme stand at Autumn Fair, selling Hot-Pak microwavable herbal heat packs.

Our first show was a huge success and we have been exhibiting here every year since. I would go so far as to say that our UK business model is based around a having a successful Autumn Fair and over the past twenty years, I have personally never missed a single Autumn Fair.

This show is by far the most important trade show in our calendar as most of our independent retailers visit to see what’s new and to place orders for the busy autumn/winter season and we see some of our multiple retailers here too looking for early signs of newness for the following year.

What can visitors expect to find this year on your stand?

Visitors will find our bestselling heatable soft toys being marketed under the new umbrella brand - Warmies.

They will also find lots of new character additions to the Cozy Plush collection including a very cute new blue cat, a seasonal polar bear and snowman, a plush dinosaur for boys and fluffy pink unicorn for girls.

We’ve also created several entirely new product categories such as Warmies Cozy Pets which include Chico the Chihuahua and Pugsy the Pug, Warmies Cozy dogs is a super cute range of fully heatable soft toys made from high quality herringbone materials and Warmies Cozy Crafts is a range of versatile rag-dolls which are ideal gifts for little girls.

Predictably, all of our Warmies designs are fully

Laurence Whiting Price’s Candles Why is Autumn Fair important to you?

It is important for Price’s to attend Autumn Fair to greet both existing and new customers at this stage in the calendar, helping with any last minute seasonal purchases or pre-spring orders.

What can visitors expect to find this year on your stand?

Visitors to our stand can expect to see our seasonal products, garden products, as well as our merchandising solutions. Everything you will see on our stand is currently in stock and available for delivery.

Will be you running any specific show only offers?

28 gifts today

heatable and after just 90 seconds in the microwave they provide hours of soothing warmth and comfort which makes them fun, safe and convenient alternatives to the traditional hot water bottle. They are gently scented with the finest dried French lavender from Provence too, which is still a very important selling point for us.

And here is some very exciting news, hot off the press.

We have recently announced our licensing agreement with Minions creators Illumination Entertainment, to create heatable Warmies versions of the incredibly popular Minion characters Kevin, Stuart and Bob and these will be showcased at this year’s Autumn Fair Stocks are limited and demand is expected to be very high so early ordering of our microwavable Minions is essential to avoid disappointment.

Will be you running any specific show only offers?

We don’t normally do show offers but as it’s our 20th anniversary, we are celebrating by giving away 12 of our original Hot-Pak herbal heat packs with a free counter display unit (retail value £120) with all orders over £500 placed for delivery before the end of October 2015. We continue to provide all of our retailers with free floor and counter display units.

How many new products will you be launching at Autumn Fair?

We are launching a total of 27 exciting new products at this years show plus of course the all new fully microwavable Warmies Minions. There has been a huge surge in interest for our microwavable soft toys recently and after a record breaking show at Harrogate this year, we are looking forward to a very, very busy Autumn Fair.

Yes we have many one-off specifically designed Autumn Fair offers which include... last minute Christmas deals, garden deals, and dinner candle deals. At the show visitors will be able to talk to the sales team who are happy to help tailor bespoke deals especially for them, offering great discounts and incentives.

How many new products will you be launching at Autumn Fair?

We have an addition to our already very successful Fresh Air Odour Eliminating Candles - the Maxi Lights! Sold in a packs of four across four fragrances, these products have long burn times and are a great addition to the range.

Mary Overmeer Puckator Ltd Why is Autumn Fair important to you?

Autumn Fair is the perfect opportunity for us to catch up with our current customers and meet new ones.

There’s always a great buzz about the show.

We provide delivery for people looking for last minute Christmas items in time for the crucial festive period. It’s also a great chance to see emerging trends for spring/summer 2016.

What can visitors expect to find this year on your stand?

Our UK-based design team have been hard at work and visitors to our stand will find a broad range of new designs this Autumn Fair. Some of our brand new designs include Christmas Pugs & Kisses, Botanical Gardens and Flamingoing Wild ranges.

How many new products will you be launching at Autumn Fair?

We will be launching thousands of new products as usual at the Autumn Fair. We have some great new vacuum flasks and tin mugs with a variety of designs. Also, a huge number of new cushions including ones in the shape of donuts, burgers and chips!

HOME exhibition, Olympia Stand J9

SIA Home Fashion

Unit 7, The Votec Centre, Hambridge Lane, Newbury RG14 5TN

Telephone: 01635 32868 Website: www.sia-homefashion.co.uk Email: salesuk@sia-homefashion.com

Autumn Fair

Full steam ahead for Autumn Fair See the biggest companies in the business at one of the UK’s largest seasonal trade exhibitions

T

he stage has been set for Autumn Fair 2015, which represents one of the most important retail buying events in Europe taking place in the second half of the year. Organised by i2i Events Group, the exhibition will run from 6 – 9 September at The NEC, Birmingham.

Autum Fair is a superb opportunity for retailers to not only ensure they have all their Christmas stock wrapped up, but to also look at the start of

from a diverse product range encompassing collectables, speciality food and confectionary, souvenirs, memorabilia and heritage items, candles, home fragrances, clocks, picture frames and countless other general giftware products.

Tom Sykes, general manager, Xystos told Gifts Today: “Autumn Fair is a key show for Christmas buying and an opportunity to show our new new product rangesto retailers. Our stand will be full of gorgeous HearthWick,

The content programme at Autumn Fair is designed to guide visitors through some of the challenges facing bricks and mortar retailers, from how to identify the next big thing to visual merchandising and photography, and provide inspiration for the season ahead 2016, St Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, Easter and beyond.

Gift will predominately occupy Hall 5 where you will find a plethora of product choices which can be considered the UK’s largest single exhibition hall – the main gifting hall will share this space with Children’s Gifts, Toys & Gadgets and Brands of China.

A fantastic selection of Contemporary Gift, Greetings, Stationery & Craft, plus Fashion Jewellery and Accessories will be adjacent in Hall 4, offering countless cross-over buying opportunities to visiting retailers.

Buyers from the smallest independents to the largest multiples and department stores can source 30 gifts today

WoodWick and Aquiesse candles and new additions to the Kringle range.

Look out too for our new Cello drinking jars and milk bottles.”

There is always so much to see and perhaps a one day visit isn’t advised if you want to spot upcoming trends, view all the new product launches on display and catch up with like-minded individuals.

Joe Davies are another exhibitor who know the value of Autumn Fair.

Joe Davies have high hopes for the upcoming NEC event. They are one of the companies who are at the forefront of introducing new, innovative products. David Cree, their sales manager says: “There is a sense that

retailers are in the buying mood and with more new products than ever before we anticipate a very busy time”.

Joe Davies will have on show over 8,000 gift items with over 2,000 brand new for the show.

Of course there is so much to see during Autumn Fair which will showcase the best new products from 1,400 exhibitors across 13 different market categories, with tens of thousands of new launches that offer superb cross-over buying opportunities and countless sector-specialist products. Show categories are: Gift, Contemporary Gift & Home, Children’s Gifts, Toys & Gadgets, Volume Gift & Home, Brands of China, Greetings, Gift & Craft, Fashion Jewellery & Accessories, Home, Table & Kitchen, Body & Bath, Retail Shop, The Summerhouse and – an exciting new introduction for 2015 - The Light Show.

Alongside some of the most wellknown and successful bellwether brands in the business, Autumn Fair will host hundreds of new companies and first time exhibitors in what promises to be an essential destination for retailers in search of the hottest new products and trends ahead of Christmas.

Of course you will also find all your favourites, for example, Enesco, Widdop Bingham, Xystos, Joe Davies, RJB Stone, Lesser & Pavey, Puckator, Heart of the Country, Boxer Gifts, Intelex, Aroma – the list is endless.

Take a look over the following pages for inspiration.

Independent retailer Sarah Haydn of Bicester Bazaar is one visitor who knows the value of Autumn Fair. “I attend Autumn Fair as I like to see what new ranges have come out from my suppliers and I am always on the lookout for new products so Autumn

Fair represents a good opportunity to have a good browse around and see what’s out there.”

Joining the show for the first time in 2015 is the Caribbean Export Development Agency, a group pavilion of 12 companies from across the Atlantic displaying an eclectic mix of home accessories, handmade cosmetics, jewellery, indigenous pottery and ceramics, leather crafts and natural body and bath products in its first European showcase.

Also new for 2015 is Taste Taiwan Design, a group pavilion devoted to unique and emerging Taiwanese design talent that is exclusive to Autumn Fair this season, while Danish home interiors and outdoor living brand IB Laursen APS also joins the show for the first time this year.

Exhibiting within the flourishing Home sector will be inspirational British design-led company Abigail Ahern Designs. Abigail Ahern has established herself as one of the most influential tastemakers in home interiors, whether pioneering dark colour palettes, or the cactus craze that has been the biggest trend of the summer. Abigail will showcase her new furniture, lighting and home accessories in a comprehensive collection for Autumn Fair.

Another new development for 2015 is the arrival of the Carpet Export Promotion Council, a colourful collective of up to 12 Indian rug and flooring companies who are collaborating on a group stand in Hall 2 of the exhibition.

Product displays that are to be showcased at Autumn Fair will include a vast array of Contemporary Gift & Home products that are available to the UK and the wider European retail trade ahead of Christmas.

Gifts for him

A UNIQUE RANGE OF MEN’S GIFTS TO PUT A SMILE ON EVERY FACE.

For the nostalgic

For the discerning gent

For all those mo bros

For the enthusiast

COME AND SEE US AT

NEC BIRMINGHAM UK For all top blokes

6-9 September 2015

HALL 5 STAND L02-M03

Widdop Bingham | Broadgate | Broadway Business Park | Chadderton | Oldham OL9 9XE T: 0161 688 1226 F: 0161 682 6808 sales@widdop.co.uk

www.widdop.co.uk

Autumn Fair

Major industry suppliers including Enesco, Junction 18, Wild & Wolf, Heaven Sends, Disaster Designs, Rex International, RJB Stone and Temerity Jones London will all present their new lines within this show sector.

Located within Contemporary Gift & Home in Hall 3 will be the mustsee Designlab feature area, a unique showcase of cutting-edge design-led product from companies such as: Queen Tea, Cherith Harrison, Colourful Dove, Itzbugginiz, Fab Funky, Molten Wonky, Boop Design and Clockwork Soldier will show off their unique new collections.

Also exclusive to Autumn Fair in the second half of 2015 is The Summerhouse collective of luxurious, design-led gift and homeware from 16 handpicked companies from around the world.

For those on the lookout for future trends, the WGSN-supported Trends Theatre, located in Hall 3 adjacent to Designlab, will provide a wealth of ideas and inspiration. WGSN will provide forward thinking design direction for the retail community via three macro trend concepts to be presented via daily webinars, while retailers and business leaders will share the secrets of their success.

The content programme at Autumn Fair is designed to guide visitors through some of the challenges facing bricks and mortar retailers, from how to identify the next big thing to visual merchandising and photography, and provide inspiration for the season ahead.

Showcasing the latest trends in 32 gifts today

Fashion Jewellery & Accessories to stunning effect will be the Catwalk feature in Hall 4, where runway shows interspersed with trend presentations will take place daily for the duration of Autumn Fair.

Another important centrepiece for the show is the Ecommerce Theatre, situated within the buzzing Retail Shop area in Hall 5. Ecommerce seminar content will address some of the most challenging issues faced by retailers, with session topics ranging from social media to Search Engine Optimization and website design.

The new Portfolio Director for Autumn Fair, Naomi Barton, commented: “I’m incredibly excited to be working on Autumn Fair, which has massively grown in stature over the years and is one of the fastest-growing seasonal trade exhibitions in Europe, showcasing more new and innovative products than any other event of its kind taking place in the autumn/winter season. The addition of The Light Show is a very important development and perfectly aligned alongside Autumn Fair given that September is the ideal time of year for lighting buyers. I am also delighted to be welcoming so many brand new companies to the show, along with our loyal existing clients.”

Stephen Illingworth Widdop Bingham Why is Autumn Fair important to you?

Autumn Fair is the final showcase of the year representing the best opportunity for retailers to make their final Christmas selections. Stocks in our warehouse are high – we’re ready to support our customers for this final busy season.

What can visitors expect to find this year on your stand?

There’s no shortage of exciting new lines across all our brands including the launch of new product categories. Star Wars gifts will clearly be a highlight (complete with storm trooper). Gift sets, accessories and new fragrances have been added to Colonial candles; Sophia, our brand of ladies gifts now boasts a collection of bath and body items as well as a range of high quality soft leather purses; men are well catered for with a new collection Vintage Union Jack as well as new additions to Steam Railway and not forgetting gifts for Movember.

Will you be running any specific show only offers?

You can’t miss the show offers – there’s a section of the stand dedicated to five unmissable show offers including our Classic Winnie the Pooh baby gifts (shortlisted for the prestigious Licensing Awards), Hestia tea lights and Movember moustache gifts. There are some real steals designed to kick start the busy trading period.

How many products will you be launching at the Autumn Fair?

Autumn Fair 2015 will represent one of our biggest launches with 1,400 brand new lines.

Do you feel that any specific trends have emerged this year with regard to gifting?

For more information on Autumn Fair and to register for free visit the website: www.autumnfair.com

Men’s gifting, a notoriously tricky area, is seeing something of a resurgence particularly driven by strong, themed collections. Light up pictures and mirrors including movement sensitive ones ideal for a night light in a baby’s nursery. Home accessories continue apace with colours reflected in fashionable copper and rose gold.

Flame & Fragrance

Electric Melt Burners

KKRRIIN GLE NGLE CANDLE速 scents.

CCrisp, A Nclean DL E 速Perfect for any home.

Hall 5

For more info please email sales@xystos.co.uk or call 0191 499 1570

Stand 5H01

Autumn Fair

Personalised Memento Company Hall 5, Stand: K03

Personalised Memento are set to launch a host of new products at this year’s Autumn Fair. Amongst a huge selection of new Christmas products, including new Christmas sacks and stockings. New for this season are personalised jute sacks, with a rustic finish they are the perfect way to present all those Christmas gifts for any good boy or girl this year.

As the industry leading supplier for personalised gifts, PMC offer a complete service; from an easy drop ship service to bespoke website solutions to sell personalised gifts. There is a huge variety of designs and products with thousands of items to choose from, many of which, are available on a next day delivery.

Tel: 01782 744 900 Email: sales@personalisedmemento.co.uk Web: www.personalisedmemento.co.uk

Heyland & Whittle Hall 3, Stand: 44

Heyland & Whittle are delighted to announce the launch of their latest fragrance, Clementine & Prosecco.

With top notes of clementine, sparkling wine, yellow apple and pear, incorporated with middle notes of apricot, peach, plum and a base note of sugar and dry fruits, this sweet yet welcomingly sharp fragrance offers the best balance in filling your space with elegance.

The range includes the ever popular Reed Diffuser and Refill; a candle in a glass and colourful tin. Along with the rest of Heyland & Whittle candles, this collection has been created with a blend of sustainable soy wax.

Autumn Fair Hall 3 Stand 44 and Top Drawer Stand G49

Tel 01293 525825 Email: sales@heylandandwhittle.co.uk Web: www.heylandandwhittle.co.uk

34 gifts today

Autumn Fair

Hall 3, Stand X37

MUSIC GIFTS tunes into men’s market The Music Gifts Company has a double celebration at Autumn Fair NEC. The company is celebrating its 20 birthday as well as presenting its entirely new brand of men’s gifts - element.

D

avid and Colette Gee founded The Music Gifts Company two days before they got married in August 1995. “We want to thank our customers for their support during the first 20 years and are thrilled to be showcasing our new brand of men’s gifts - element.”

Talking to Gifts Today, David comments: “We are so excited about

summer at Home & Gift and received an unbelievable response.”

The new element range extends to mugs and coasters, socks, cufflinks, twin-pack hankies as well as pewter keyrings, pins and birthday cards.

“We worked with local illustrator, Vikki Gibson to create designs which capture speed and motion across ten sports – resulting in the perfect gift for any male sport enthusiast.”

At launch, there are more than 30 designs of cufflinks. Each pair is presented in a bespoke gift box. “We wanted to create something special and unique from the outset. Over the last 20 years, we have formed a great

retailers to make good margins. The socks, for example, are 95% cotton with 5% lycra. There are six designs which are available on a rotating display stand.

“Of course there is great excitement about the new range, but we are extremely proud of how we have managed to reach our 20th birthday.

To celebrate there are beautiful new pieces of jewellery to compliment the existing collection.

“It is wonderful to see how our gifts have stood the test of time so incredibly well. The first product we launched was “The Chopin Liszt” shopping list. Twenty years later, it is

“We are so excited about creating this new brand. It has come about as a result of listening to our customer’s demands for men’s gifts” David Gee creating this new brand. It has come about as a result of listening to our customer’s demands for men’s gifts.

For element, we have worked with our craftsmen as well as new illustrators to form the basis of the catalogue. The new range was launched earlier this

36 gifts today

bond with our craftsmen who make our products. By working closely them, we have been able to establish this exciting new collection. All the gifts are based around a wide variety of men’s hobbies and interests.”

As well as the most popular sports like football, cycling, golf, rugby and cricket, there are gifts featuring running, motor-racing, tennis, fishing, photography, motorbikes, darts, snooker, sailing, offroading and even beer! It is important to offer customers quality products which still allow

still our number one best-seller with sales in excess of 1/2 million units.”

The company has a new bespoke display for element , which is very

striking alongside the black and white themed-display used for music. “We have spent over six months putting this collection together with a great emphasis on the very finest of details, from the use of the colours within the branding to the name itself - element.

Even though element is a new brand, they actively wanted to keep both brands within the same company.

This strategy simplifies accounting for customers.

David concludes, “Autumn Fair is always an exciting show for us but this year’s looks like being very special indeed and we look forward to welcoming you all onto our stand to show you our newly launched range.”

Tel: 01202 57 00 57 Web: www.musicgifts.co.uk www.elementgifts.com

DID YOU KNOW? • The Music Gifts Company was founded in 1995 • All items are their own products

www.rjbstone.com Visit us at Autumn Fair Hall 3 Stand J50-L51 From vintage charm to contemporary concepts, discover 800 new products from our Autumn/Winter 2015 collection and 1500 Christmas decorations.

Get ready for 2016; pre-order for Valentine’s, Mother’s Day, Easter and Father’s Day and receive exclusive show gifts when you spend £200 in any of the occasions ranges.

Minimum Order £150 net. Carriage paid UK £200 net. +44 (0) 207 346 0100 | rjbenquiries@rjbstone.com

Autumn Fair

Puckator

Stand 5K02-L03 Visit Puckator at Autumn Fair to see thousands of brand new product launches.

Their UK-based design team have been hard at work to bring you all the latest trends and exciting new designs. Their Tropical Flamingo, Botanical Gardens and London Map collections are all set to be big sellers and with such a variety of products available, you can create some fantastic displays.

Puckator have also expanded their licensed giftware ranges including The Beatles Yellow Submarine and Mr Bean. New-in is their range of Frozen hand warmers and hot water bottles, hugely popular and a must-have for gift retailers.

To celebrate their 25th anniversary, Puckator will be giving away limited edition Puckator bags and a free gift on their stand at Autumn Fair.

Tel: 0800 011 6969 Email: customerservices@puckator.co.uk Web: www.puckator.co.uk

Price’s Candles Hall 5, Stand: F30

Price’s Candles are returning to Autumn Fair following their success at Spring Fair earlier this year!

They are taking this opportunity to showcase their garden ranges that include a vast range of citronella and provincial lavender fragranced products, as well as focusing on seasonal collections with the lead up to Christmas. Also they will be offering one chance only Autumn Fair deals and merchandising solutions that will hold great discounts to incentivise and meet their customers’ demands.

Tel: 01234264500 Web: www.prices-candles.co.uk

38 gifts today

scented candles natural soaps fragranced gifts Just relax and see the Seriously Scented ranges from Best Kept Secrets.

COME AND SEE US AT

AUTUMN FAIR, NEC BIRMINGHAM // 6-9 SEPTEMBER 2015 // STAND 3G-40 SCOTLAND’S AUTUMN FAIR // 20-21 SEPTEMBER 2015 // STAND D10 T. +44 (0)1670 512222 E. sales@bestkeptsecrets.co.uk Best Kept Secrets, Coopies Field, Morpeth, Northumberland, NE61 6JT, UK www.bestkeptsecrets.co.uk

HANDM

IN THE ADE UK

Autumn Fair

Hall 5, Stand: C02-F03

Lesser & Pavey Creators of innovative giftware, from fine chinaware to fashion bags and accessories, from photo frames to teapots and fine china mugs, from style pieces to Christening and men’s gifts, from trays to candle holders and glassware. Lesser & Pavey bring original, quality products at affordable prices to the giftware market. Buyers can be assured of excellence. Here’s a sneaky peek at some of the ranges that you will find on display.

Tall and Cooling

Lesser & Pavey introduce the tall, quality glass drink dispensers. With a sealed top to stop the flies and a tap to stop the spills, this looks the perfect answer to serving al fresco drinks to friends and family.

They come in two sizes 4 litres and 8 litres, and can contain juice or beer.

Lesser & Pavey were first to spot the potential of the drinking jars and set about making a quality item, with screw top lid and straw, to present to the giftware buyer something innovative whilst practical and the drink dispensers follow on from this success.

Say it with Beer

Happy birthday Beer Mugs special occasions -18yrs, 21st, 30th, 40th, 50th, 60th or just Ice Cold Beer, Beer O’Clock, and a firm favouirte will be Free Beer Tomorrow.

Lesser & Pavey bring something different to the male gift market in the form of beer gifts which includes the above as well as toppers, large standing version comes in three designs - Beer o’clock, Free beer Tomorrow and Ice Cold Beer.

Fun and practical, there are smaller versions using same design as well as a Beer Tankard to match.

Tel: 01322 29225 Web: www.leonardo.co.uk 40 gifts today

Pretty and Blue

Blue and white willow patterns enter the ranges of fine chinaware at Lesser & Pavey.

Fresh, almost crisp, the new pattern way and style is nostalgic in that it sits so well with todays fashions.

The range consists of sets of four fine china mugs with lap trays, canisters, cake tins, cutting boards, cup and saucer, jugs, teapot, tea for one, cake stand, trays, coasters and matching placemats, knives, spoons, fork, and cake slice.

Autumn Fair

Heaven Sends Hall 3, Stand: H20-J21

Heaven Sends will be launching their new range of fabulous home and giftware products, which are available to pre-order for early 2016 delivery.

Be ahead of the game by ordering now as these products won’t be launched on the new website until after the show, so it’s worth the visit to Hall 3 H20-J21 to check out some unique products in person.

It’s also your last chance to finalise your Christmas and Halloween orders. There’s no other range like it, from huge metal soldiers to adorn your windows to delicate glass angels to add some sparkle to your trees. Or there’s always that crazy looking moose that is guaranteed to delight everyone.

Whatever your taste your personal sales Angel will be on hand to help you choose the best sellers for the Christmas season and what’s hot for Spring/Summer next year.

All this and a prize draw with the chance to win your Autumn Fair order… how can you miss Heaven Sends off your must visit list?

Tel: 0121 351 7457 Email: sales@heavensends.com Web: www.heavensends.com

Terramundi Hall 3, Stand: U21

The Slicks range at Terramundi has expanded!

This ever growing and popular design has now got three fabulous new colours to add to the collection.

From a rich gold and dark masala pot to their vibrant bright blue, new crocus and yellow slick pot, there’s a colour to match any household!

Their unique design has always been a favourite and has already received a fantastic reaction.

So don’t miss seeing Terramundi’s new designs- all of which are delicately hand-thrown in Italy and hand-painted and finished in the UK.

Tel: 020 8808 3818 Email: moneypots@terramundi.co.uk Website: www.terramundi.co.uk 42 gifts today

Visit us at

Autumn Fair Birmingham NEC, 6th - 10th September 2015 Hall 5, Stand F30

We are looking forward to seeing you there!

Price’s Patent Candles Ltd, 16 Hudson Road, Bedford, MK41 0LZ

+44 (0)1234 264500

sales@prices-candles.co.uk

Autumn Fair

Dora Designs Hall 3, Stand: T22-U23

Dora Designs have been extremely busy designing some beautiful new doorstops and draft excluders to grace your homes.

A particular favourite is the new, luxurious Marcus Fielding draft excluder. Not only will he do a brilliant job of shielding the cold draft that sneak into your home but he is also extremely cute. There are also new additions to the Patchwork Range, Traditional Range and the Canine and Feline Collections.

Dora Designs look forward to welcoming new and existing customers onto their stand at Autumn Fair, Hall 3 T22-U23, and introducing you to all their charming new characters.

Tel: 01780 430188 Email: enquiries@doradesigns.co.uk Web: www.doradesigns.co.uk

NPW

Hall 3, Stand: R02-S03 How much fun can you handle? NPW are back for another season with bucket loads of fab, fun new products to put a great big smile on your face. It’s always time to have a laugh with NPW. They are your one stop shop for all the things you need to add that side splitting silliness to your life. Check out their huge Sumo soap on a rope and their delicious Hot Dog Stapler.

Have a whale of a time with their Whale Mug and act like a monster with their Voice Changer!

Tel: 020 8735 2882 Web: www.npw. co.uk

Classic Canes

Hall 4, Stand: N03

Walking stick specialists Classic Canes will launch their autumn-winter 2015 new products at Autumn Fair (Hall 4, Stand N03). New additions to the family firm’s 650-strong range will include folding and adjustable derby walking sticks in autumn leaf patterns. Managing director Charlotte Gillan says, “Walking stick users are becoming more and more image-conscious. Our new sticks for this autumn offer charm and style, so make perfect presents for anyone who appreciates the support and balance a cane provides. Many models are height-adjustable, which makes it easy for retailers to set them to the correct height on the shop floor.”

Tel: +44 (0)1460 75686 Email: charlotte@classiccanes.co.uk Web: www.classiccanes.co.uk 44 gifts today

Autumn Fair

Ronin Designs Hall 4, Stand: G58

Ronin enjoy creating jewellery inspired by the seasons – as summer turns to autumn its range shifts emphasis from gemstones in fresh shades that are combined with flowery patterns, to richer lush shades that capture the feel of autumn.

Visit their stand at Autumn Fair to see the brand new autumn/winter ranges, or request a catalogue. You can also view the range and order online, just ask for a login password.

The jewellery is handmade in Wales with trade prices from £4.95 to £11.95, all beautifully gift boxed.

Tel: 01269 826000 Web: www.ronindesigns.co.uk

Widdop Bingham & Co Ltd Hall 5, Stand: L2/M3 and L11

Launched less than a year ago, Colonial Candle is fast becoming the must-have candle brand in the industry. This iconic American brand has generated huge levels of interest since its first unveiling at Spring Fair earlier this year and expectations are high for Autumn Fair.

The stand at Autumn Fair will be bursting with even more new launches including nine brand new fragrances, electric wax warmers, candle accessories, Christmas gift sets and so much more.

Tel: 0161 688 1226 Email: sales@widdop.co.uk Web: www.widdop.co.uk

46 gifts today

Autumn Fair

Hall 5, Stand: F30

Price’s Candles return to Autumn Fair Due to the overwhelming success of the Spring Fair in February, 2015 sees the return of Price’s Candles to the Autumn Fair, Birmingham for the first time in eight years.

A

t a time when the validity merchandising units to something of trade shows has been much more suited to gift shops and questioned, Price’s have garden centres. The welsh-dresser style been busy exhibiting at merchandisers have proven popular, more shows in 2015 than aesthetically much more in keeping with at any other time in the last ten years. the rest of the look of the stores. Surplus This commitment certainly seems to be products can also be stored in the base paying off for them with sales increasing of the units making them functional too. and key new customers coming on Price’s Candles started manufacturing board. in 1830. As such they are a comparative For a company who pride newcomer to an ancient themselves on building trade yet, in their 185 strong relationships year history, they with their customers, have been being able to active in spend time transforming e l b i d e y l p p face-to-face with the candle u ’s s rmed a “Price e them is a key h t ith industry. s to part of Price’s They’re able candle iding them w e ov c r r philosophy. “The to boast p u s o s e forc nd a candle industry producing light a h t en o h b w can be largely candles for d of foo ” unregulated and the Scott of the ! d e need variance in quality in Antarctic and the the market is astounding.

British Army, inventing We see it as a duty to inform glycerine, and supplying Rolls and educate our customers so they Royce with their motor oil in the 1900s. can know to recognise a good quality Price’s invented the modern day candle product from a bad one” explains Sarah and have proudly held the Royal Warrant Oakey, head of product development. of Candlemakers to Her Majesty The “We also get to understand exactly what Queen since the 1850s. our customers are looking for and adapt These days, Price’s benefit greatly by our ranges to them.” being a key part of a larger company, Part of this ongoing job is to producing wax products for every understand what selling tools can help market. Being able to draw on a wider the customer range of technology and by starting and, as a further back in the supply chain with result, Price’s the raw product, enables Price’s greater have evolved control over the final product’s finish, the standard especially the quality of the burn. It also square means Price’s have the ability to continue to innovate and create new ranges all at fantastic value to the customer.

As an example of this, in the past couple of years Price’s has launched its Signature range of candles and diffusers, which has been a great success. Consisting of two sizes of elegantly shaped jars and a 250ml reed diffuser, the range was carefully developed throughout 2013 launching at 48 gifts today

Did ow? you kn

Price’s Candles started manufacturing in 1830. As such they are a comparative newcomer to an ancient trade yet, in their 185 year history, they have been active in transforming the candle industry Spring Fair in 2014 with its twelve Spring/ Summer Fragrances. Since then a further twelve Autumn/Winter fragrances have been added, showcasing in this years central area.

Price’s have also been busy adding to their best selling Fresh Air range of odour eliminating candles and diffusers with the addition of maxi tealights. The success of the range has seen them become one of the UK market leaders for odour neutralising products with it’s unique Odourfoyl technology exclusive to Price’s. For those who haven’t stocked them before this is a must-have item for every shop!

We asked Sales Manager Laurence Whiting what we can expect from Price’s Candles at Autumn Fair?

“We want to continue our commitment to get the customer product ranges and solutions tailored to them. By talking together, we can spend that time showing the whole range and also exploring what we can do to help each retailer sell more of our products. We are

ready to listen!”

To discover more about Price’s Candles, they will be exhibiting at Autumn Fair, Birmingham in Hall 5, Stand F30.

To contact Price’s, please send an email to sales@prices-candles.co.uk or visit www.prices-candles.co.uk.

Alternatively call on 01234 264500.

DID YOU KNOW? “Price’s candles were taken on expeditions to the Antarctic, evidence here on Google Earth where Price’s Candles still remain in Shackleton’s Cabin to this day!”

Stop Press News...

Debut at Home & Gift Harrogate proved storming success, don’t miss your chance to stock this rising star range!

Fabulous collections of sentiment based gifts perfect for friends & family for any occasion.

Come & to sec see us ur your e stock

Jigsaw Wall Art that can be hung locked together or free standing.

View the complete range at Hall 5 Stand M12 Autumn Fair NEC

Ceramic Heart & Mug Gift Sets

ARORA DESIGN LTD WORCESTER, ENGLAND T: +44 (0)1386 861666 e: sales@arora-design.co.uk w: www.arora-design.co.uk

Autumn Fair

Bigjigs

Hall 5 Stand A39 At this year’s Autumn Fair, Bigjigs will be showcasing new festive additions to their range of wooden railway toys.

The beautifully detailed Christmas Train and Santa Sleigh with Reindeer from the Bigjigs Rail range are two must-have Christmas gifts for train enthusiasts young and old. The magnetic points on the wagons of the Christmas Train can be lifted and lowered using a third new Christmas-themed rail accessory: the colourful new Candy Crane. The full trio are set to create a magical Christmas scene among any wooden railway set and inspire small world play with bundles of festive cheer.

Bigjigs’ other new launches for 2015 will also be on show at Autumn Fair, including the colourful collection of wooden Click Blocks, boasting assorted colours and shapes. The 40-piece Intermediate Pack makes a fantastic starter set of building bricks – a comprehensive set that can be added to with the Zesty Basic Pack and Primary Basic Pack, each with a further 20 blocks. The miniature wooden blocks are perfectly sized for little hands to grasp and stack on top of each other. They click together firmly and can easily be detached to start a new design.

Tel: 01303 250400 Web: www.bigjigstoys.com

Ambiente Paper Products Hall 4, Stand: C02

Ambiente is a Dutch manufacturer of printed paper napkins and table top accessories.

They have their own in house design team and all paper products are manufactured in their factory from FSC certified tissue on flexographic presses. They are able to produce designs from one to nine colours in 25/33/40 cm and offer a very speedy Private Label service.

Each year they produce two collections featuring a variety of flower/plain embossed/ lifestyle designs with co-ordinating accessories such as napkin holders, tissues, candles, and fine china gifts.

At Ambiente quality and customer care are the top priority and they offer a four day delivery service.

Tel: 07956 -424482 Email: richard@ambproducts.co.uk

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Meet the latest additions to our range, our brand new

PORCELAIN COLLECTOR DOLLS

Come and see our exciting new launches and meet Thelma at our stand NEC Autumn Fair, Hall 5, Stand G10.

Contact sales@camalents.com or +44(0)1782 344900

Autumn Fair

Hall 4, Stand: B01 and Hall 2, Stand H33-G32

An Aladdin’s Cave of Treasures from the East!

If you haven’t discovered Namaste yet then you really should take a look! Fairly traded yet very commercial and with wide appeal, their huge range for Autumn Fair includes gifts, home accessories, furnishings, furniture and incense.

N

ew ranges include a lovely collection of their hugely successful recycled aluminium dips and nibbles trays but this time set on to a deep mango wood base (pictured top right).

This is a brilliant line in its own right but is all the more attractive for being made on a fair trade basis and using recycled metal with sustainable wood.

Elephants are always popular and Namaste have developed a vibrant design pictured below right in three sizes of jewellery boxes with matching purses.

Indigo coloured bamboo baskets from Vietnam perfectly compliment several strong new ranges of soft furnishings which include quilts, cushions, throws and rugs.

Namaste are becoming well known for their large selection of kilim rugs with matching cushions and upholstered stools and there are nine lovely new ranges to be launched in Birmingham.

These include one range of rugs made from yarn that is made from

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100% recycled plastic water bottles.

The look and feel is indistinguishable from 100% wool - go and see it to believe it!

A large range of Fair Trade Christmas decorations include new collections made from recycled paper, hand painted papier mache, whitewash mango wood (pictured centre) and hand painted metal.

These hundreds of brand new products add to their best-selling gift collections which include Moroccan style lanterns, tea lights, incense and incense gifts, vintage tin gifts, hand painted ceramics, painted wooden chests, wind chimes, light catchers, quirky animals and hand carved wooden gifts.

Another good example of a range that brings together the winning combination of fair trade and recycled raw materials is Namaste’s very successful collection of recycled paper gifts. This includes notebooks such as the new butterfly range pictured, mobile strings, decorative stars, greetings cards, gift wrap and bags.

Windhorse sadly stopped trading earlier this year much to the surprise of many retailers and fellow wholesalers. It was sad to see a good company go but for those customers who want to continue to buy their funky and fun gifts you should check out Namaste’s offering which includes most of their bestselling

Namaste are becoming well known for their large selection of kilim rugs with matching cushions and upholstered stools and there are nine lovely new ranges to be launched in Birmingham ranges. Namaste has taken over exclusive distribution of the rainbow mosaic range which was the consistent best seller for Windhorse. Their other best-seller was the fantastically cheerful rainbow ceramics range and Namaste are stocking this one too along with a large range of light catchers, Buddhas, wind chimes, animal carvings, candles, and other mosaics.

Namaste’s suppliers are very aware of ethical and environmental issues and provide much needed employment to skilled artisans around the world. Wherever possible, Namaste buys direct from the manufacturers, with no middlemen or exporters involved in the supply chain. This enables them to build a relationship together in a spirit of partnership.

Namaste is recognised by BAFTS, (The British Association for Fair Trade Shops and Suppliers) as a Fair Trade company.

Namaste is a friendly and efficient

company with excellent product availability and customer service. Their generous discount structure means that the more you spend, the more you save and this can save you as much as 25%.

All items are orderable online and in an inspirational printed catalogue.

They also have a very successful and growing clothing, accessories and jewellery collection in a separate catalogue. For a full set of free Namaste colour catalogues please give them a call.

Tel 01756 700790 www.namaste-uk.com sales@namaste-uk.com

Autumn Fair

Hall 5, Stand: F10

Heart of the Country Take the time to visit Heart of the Country. With so many gorgeous fragrance solutions, you are sure to find that something special that you are searching for.

George Electronic Diffuser by Mr&Mrs Fragrance

Introducing George, the future of home fragrance. George is an electronic fragrance diffuser designed by Italian designer Luca Trazzi. George works by blowing cool air through any of Mr&Mrs Fragrance capsules. This innovative system is just about the safest way to produce fragrance, no flame, no heat, no liquid, no mess, just beautiful fragrances produced by this iconic diffuser.

George is powered by a lithium battery and can last up to eight hours on one charge, he has two separate one-touch fragrance programs and will always revert to standby thus saving fragrance and power. George is available in four soft touch colours and two metallic colours.

George retails at just £60, with Mr&Mrs Fragrance capsules lasting up to sixty hours retailing at under £5.

Heart of the Country look forward to introducing you to George and the rest of the Mr&Mrs Fragrance Family at Autumn Fair.

Cesare, Car Fragrance by Mr&Mrs Fragrance

Cesare is a car air freshener who just sits on your air vent and fragrances your car, but with style. Cesare is made of a special type of plastic, his fragrance is incorporated into his body with essential oils. He will give you two months of beautiful fragrances and is available in 12 different colours and fragrances. Cesare is made in Italy and comes sealed in plastic within a box with a scratch and smell sticker.

With an rrp of less than a fiver and free POS displays available, Cesare is sure to be the fastest moving gift this season.

Heart of the Country look forward to introducing you to Cesare and the rest of the Mr&Mrs Fragrance Family at Autumn Fair.

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Meet the Mr&Mrs Family

After a record breaking show at Home & Gift, Heart of the Country look forward to introducing the buyers at Autumn Fair to Mr&Mrs Fragrance. Mr&Mrs Fragrance is an Italian brand that effortlessly blend passion, technology, design and fragrance to produce an incredibly exciting home fragrance which has already shaken up the UK home fragrance market. Members of the family include George and Sissi, electronic diffusers which utilise Mr&Mrs Fragrance Capsules on Air. Niki and Cesare who cling on to your car airvent sharing their beautiful fragrances. Finally Ercole (Cesare’s brother) who hangs out in wardrobes keeping it fresh and moths at bay.

Scented Sachet Giveaway Q and A!

What? - Heart of the Country’s Scented Sachets are available in over one hundred fragrances in three brands, Greenleaf, Bridgewater Candle Company and Willowbrook Fresh Scents. Each beautifully designed envelope contains vermiculite (a natural mineral) blended with essential oils. Just unwrap the shelf life extending cellophane and the sachet will fragrance a room for four months Why? - Heart of the Country’s Scented Sachets are an addictive consumable that keep your customers coming back for more. Priced at a very pick-up-able £3.50 for large and £2.50 for slim, the sachets are the most affordable and effective home fragrance product. Unbreakable, un-spillable and with no naked flame the scented sachet can fragrance your home without the hazards associated with candles and reed diffusers.

How? - Heart of the Country offer various different displays to display the scented sachets. With a-frames and spinners that hold hundreds of sachets on very little floor space and table top displays for smaller quantities all your needs can be catered for.

Tel: 01543 481612 Web: www.HeartoftheCountryLtd.co.uk

AUTUMN FAIR NEC 6th - 9th September 2015 HALL 3 STAND 3B10-C11

E: sales@silplc.com | T: 01992 718033 | www.silplc.com

Autumn Fair

Best Kept Secrets

Hall 3, Stand: G40

Best Kept Secrets have recently launched their own scented Melt Fusions range, with a dozen of their best selling scents now available in heart shaped wax melts with an emphasis on fragrance quality and vibrant colours and glitter finishes to the melts.

Denise Edwards from Best Kept Secrets commented: “Our Melt Fusion range has been a real labour of love, and with distinctive point of sale materials and a great selection of melts we are very proud of our latest range. A starter pack has been produced for new retailers, which offers everything you need to introduce the range to any retail environment.”

Tel: 01670 512222 Email: sales@bestkeptsecrets.co.uk

Camal Enterprises Hall 5, Stand: G10

The collaboration between Camal Enterprises’ English Ladies Co brand and TV’s Thelma Madine, star of My Big Fat Gypsy Wedding is going from strength to strength with the launch of their stunning limited edition carriages earlier this year and amazing new 24 inch porcelain collector dolls. The style and quality of new products continues to engage the consumers with an explosion of activity on Facebook around every new introduction. Camal has seen double digit growth year on year with excellent sell through and margin return for its retail partners. Be part of the success this Christmas by becoming a Premium Stockist.

Ask staff at the Autumn Fair, stand 5G10 for details.

Tel: 01782 344900 Email: sales@camalents.com

Enesco

Hall 3, Stand W04-X03 Enesco announces the exclusive distribution of the VW Collection by BRISA giftware line in the UK and Ireland.

Volkswagen’s legendary Camper Van and Volkswagen Beetle have become cult symbols amongst their legions of fans around the world. The Camper Van stands for originality, evolution and independence, while the Beetle (Bug) is loved for its unmistakeable style evoking the spirit of a bygone era. These emotions are embraced by the VW Collection by BRISA, which is now exclusively available from Enesco in the UK and Ireland.

The diverse and colourful products in the fun VW giftware collection, decorated with nostalgic and images of the Camper and Beetle, can be used around the home as well as on outdoor adventures. My Clock combines a photo frame and a clock in a tin and can be displayed on tables, walls, or, with its magnetic back, on refrigerators. Meanwhile, A5 size notebooks are both practical and appealing with their hard covers decorated with iconic designs and phrases such as “Love that Bug” and “The Ultimate Ride”. Fashion accessories such as shoulder bags, sports bags and backpacks round out the collection.

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Tel: 01228 404022 Email: uksales@enesco.co.uk Web: www.enesco.co.uk

Autumn Fair NEC Hall 3 Stand X37

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Hall 3 Stand X37

created by the lovely people at THE MUSIC GIFTS COMPANY

Autumn Fair

Kenro

Hall 5, Stand: K05 Kenro will be displaying their extensive range of Photo Albums and Frames on Stand K05, Hall 5.

Many new products will be displayed, the beautiful Cottage Flower and Candy Series of book-bound slipin albums will feature alongside the new Patchwork Baby Albums.

Vibrant lifestyle albums will be displayed, including the new Summer Breeze Series and Tundra Albums which feature a filigree design. These will be accompanied by the Kington Series, with an embossed butterfly pattern on a recycled paper finish.

Kenro have also extended the ever popular Holiday Series of albums adding new sizes and great styles for storing summer memories.

New wooden gift frames have also been released, this includes the Chester Series with a raised filigree design, the rustic Toulon Series, and the Kington Antique and Beaded frames with a ‘Shabby Chic’ distressed style.

The brushed effect Milton and Smart Lytton Series frames have bold profiles and are a great addition to the collection.

Visit the Kenro stand to see these new designs along with the popular existing ranges, and collect a copy of their summer brochure.

Tel: 01793615836 Web: www.kenro.co.uk

Neviti

Hall 3, Stand: U41 Neviti have some fantastic new ranges on display at this year’s Autumn Fair with the launch of their new Christmas Craft and Festive Noel collections.

The Christmas Craft range is perfect for bringing a fun element to your festive preparations.

Create some colourful stocking bunting or add a unique touch to the traditional paper chains with the Christmas Craft colour-in items. Build the excitement for the big day with the Christmas Eve Kit and Santa’s Boot Prints, and make your Christmas table sparkle with some Santa and Rudolph Glass decorations. Christmas Craft really has some fantastic pieces to unleash their creativity this Christmas. Festive Noel is Neviti’s beautiful range of tableware and decorations to add some Scandi-inspired style to your festive celebrations. Featuring distinctive, folksy motifs and a stylish colour palette, Festive Noel includes everything you need to dress your home at Christmas, from beautiful

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paper tableware to pretty decorative accessories. Other Christmas collections on display will be Neviti’s bestselling Winter Wonderland and Shimmering Snowflake offerings. Both ranges offer a stylish selection of table accessories perfect for festive dinner parties in classic gold and silver shades.

Tel: 0845 638 1358 Web: www.neviti.com

Autumn Fair

Hall 5, Stand: A10

Boxer Gifts Find out what’s new over at Boxer Gifts – make sure you visit them in hall 5, stand A10.

Bike Mug

Cycle widows and orphans always struggle to find the perfect gift for their bikemad husbands, wives, dads, mums, uncles, brothers and grandparents. Bike parts are expensive and the fancy, technical stuff is a mystery to the uninitiated.

Seek a different route to their gifting needs. This bike mug is the perfect present for cyclists. The white mug features a 3D bike-shaped handle and the phrase Live to Ride, the mantra of every keen cyclist. It’s sure to be appreciated as their mug of choice when it comes to enjoying a brew after a ride.

Hashtag Mugs

In this age of social media and online communication, everyone knows someone with the habit of adding a #hashtag to everything they say. Each and every single sentence seems to be followed by at least one #.

Someone’s feeling rough? They #needcoffee!

Always pointing out the obvious? Erm… yeah, #justsayin!

Well, these innovative mugs offer an apt and amusing gifting solution for the #personwhohashtagseverything!

From members of the Twitterati to silver surfers, Boxer Gifts have got the #mug for them.

The mug features a 3D hashtag-shaped handle, with the choice of four phrases: #needcoffee, #brewtime, #justsayin and #dealwithit. These mugs are perfect when they’re in need of #refreshment!

Snowmen

The Christmas retail season is upon us and the team at Boxer are getting into the festive spirit with their beautiful new ceramic personalised snowmen.

This hand-painted range is presented on a bespoke spinner and features over 85 popular male and female names and 17 generic designs. Such variety means that there’s a snowman for almost everyone. And for those whose names they may have missed, they have included a blank snowman, which can be personalised by the consumer with a permanent marker pen.

The snowmen are decorated with cute painted hats, scarves and – of course – a little carrot nose. They are wonderful little token gifts for all the family.

To complement the jolly snowmen, they’ve included a light-up LED Christmas tree. The colour-changing light twinkles through star-shaped holes in the tree, creating a lovely, festive look.

Also available is a special tray, which holds up to five pieces and encourages consumers to make multiple purchases. The filled tray creates a wonderful Christmas decoration that families will cherish forever.

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Tel: 0113 395 5596 Web: www.boxergifts.com

Autumn Fair

Alexander Thurlow

Hall 4, Stand: H55

Solo

Hall 3, Stand: V09 New for Autumn 2015, PHILIPPI’s new bowl, BOL, is a perfect composition of taupe-coloured naturally formed ceramic and soft-finish wood. A combination of flowing organic form and warm tactile material creates a feast for the eyes as well a rewarding haptic experience. The BOL is perfect as an occasional bowl for nuts, fruits or other treats.

Whether you keep the bowl for yourself or pass it around, the BOL is always a pleasure to use.

PHILIPPI’s new brochure is hot-off-the-presss and is available in August.

The full PHILIPPI range is available exclusively from Solo – www.sololtd. com.

Email: retail@sololtd.com Web: www.sololtd.com

Heaven Scent Hall 5, Stand: L20

Nothing puts us in the holiday spirit like the smell of fresh baked goods swirling with the aroma of Christmas spices.

Heaven scent are launching Nutmeg and Cinnamon aroma to compliment their already successful Christmas range.

Cinnamon is a bittersweet spice obtained from the inner bark of several trees from the genus cinnamomum.

Nutmeg is a delicate spice, also known as “pala” in Indonesia, it is derived from an evergreen tree species in the Spice Islands of Indonesia.

This new aroma is not sickly sweet but complex and spicy, it will fill the room immediately with the smell of Christmas.

Cinnamon and Nutmeg is now available in our range of candles, reed diffusers and newly launched room sprays.

Phone: 01225 868788 Web: www.heavenscent.co.uk 62 gifts today

Alexander Thurlow are continuing with their hugely popular boxed range of Poppy Jewellery. This poppy pendant is a fine new edition to the range.

Other lines that have been strong this season are leaf and forest themes. We suggest you visit their stand to see the new forest collection or go online for many other great products. Hall 4 H55.

Tel: 020 8766 6466 Web: www.alexanderthurlow.com

Inspirational products traded fairly from around the globe.

AUTUMN FAIR

Come and see us at the Autumn Fair this year to see our latest products.

NEC BIRMINGHAM UK

HALL 2 STAND H33 - G32 For our Home & Soft Furnishings Collections

6 - 9 September 2015

HALL 4 STAND 4B01 For our Giftware Collections

www.namaste-uk.com w Minimum order only £150 plus VAT • Free colour catalogues available.

M SSHOWROOM

SNAYGILL INDUSTRIAL ESTATE

TEL: 01756 700790 T

SKIPTON

NORTH YORKSHIRE

BD23 2QR

EMAIL: sales@namaste-uk.com

Home & Gifts • Incense • Home Furnishings • Furniture • Clothing • Accessories • Jewellery H

Autumn Fair

Hall 5, Stand: 5G06-H07

Ashleigh & Burwood Home fragrance company Ashleigh & Burwood delivers a portfolio of inspired and refined fragranced products; Fragrance Lamps, Reed Diffusers, Candles, Scent Hubs and premium gift packaged home fragrance ranges. Here’s a selection of what you’ll find on their stand this year.

Shining light

Shimmering orb lamp Dragon’s Eye teams up with exotic fragrance Moroccan Spice, whilst the petite Little Treasure is partnered with Oriental Spice for Ashleigh & Burwood’s new festive Fragrance Lamp Gift Sets.

Available in a special limited edition gift box, featuring a stylised gift ribbon and red and gold insert, these lamp and fragrance duos are also available in the form of Mosaic Reed Diffusers.

Handcrafted orb lamp Dragon’s Eye features rich claret glass mosaic pieces with twinkling speckles of gold, whilst Little Treasure’s individually hand crafted model sports a selection of glimmering gold, shimmering silver and clear glass pieces.

Ashleigh & Burwood are excited to introduce two new fragrances to their The Scented Home range, Lily & Jasmine and White Cedar & Bergamot. A deep floral symphony, Lily & Jasmine boasts a sweet core of lily and jasmine, and a warm base of amber and sandalwood cooled by refreshing green top notes, forming a dainty floral harmony. White Cedar & Bergamot is a woody, more masculine scent with deep base notes of mahogany and white cedarwood, accented by a core of spicy nutmeg and cinnamon, with distinctly zingy top notes of bergamot.

Simply Ceramic

Ashleigh & Burwood are proud to unveil the brand new design interpretation to their Simply Ceramic collection. Combining intricate yet subtle ornamentation with a fresh, fashion inspired colour palette, Simply Ceramic fragrance lamps perfectly balance trends in home décor and home fragrance. The latest launch to grace the Simply Ceramic collection is inspired by patterns found in nature, in-keeping with the organic and minimalistic Simply Ceramic style and perfectly meeting the trend for simplistic, earthen homeware.

These organic-inspired designs are available in four on-trend statement colours, including ‘Café au Lait’, ‘Mint Fizz’, ‘Rainstorm’ and ‘Damson in Distress’.

The Natural Elements Collection is infused with a sophisticated new style direction as Ashleigh & Burwood introduce a wave of new designs. Opulent additions such as Midnight Gold bring a heightened sensuality to the range, sporting an angular design and a striking speckled gold stripe running down each face of its body.

Both teamed with the exotic Moroccan Spice fragrance, Midnight Silver cuts a similar figure, featuring a statement silver stripe. Midnight Stone retains the classic, round design, combining the on-trend darkness of the new additions with the familiar freshness of the collection, featuring rounded stones and teamed with White Tea.

Tel: 01932267060 Web: www.ashleigh-burwood-trade.co.uk 64 gifts today

Autumn Fair

Carrie Elspeth Hall 4, Stand: G36

Thinking ahead to the Festive Season? Not only has Carrie Elspeth produced a stunning autumn collection, but this award-winning Welsh jewellery company also has a gorgeous Christmas Collection ready to launch. These festive jewellery treats will warm your hearts and have your tills ringing, with a wide range of beautifully made jewellery that is a perfect addition to your Christmas offering.

Your customers will be thrilled at the variety of striking and sophisticated styles that Carrie creates and they will be even more delighted to know that by purchasing any Carrie Elspeth items they are supporting a genuine Made in the UK company.

Come and visit our stand and try your hand at our fun-filled Lucky Dip.

Tel: 01446 771271 Email: sales@carrieelspeth.com Web: www.carrieelspeth.co.uk

Heaven Sends Hall 3, Stand: H20-J21

Don’t miss a trick because you’re in for a treat at Autumn Fair this year…

Be freaked out by the truly fang-tastic Halloween range being presented by Heaven Sends. There’s plenty to choose from and as always, margins are frightfully good.

Highlights include: Huge Halloween Gates, eeek-citing light up signs, bootiful bouncing metal pumpkins… and batty Owlloween figures… Witch ones will you choose?

It’s your last chance to buy what has proven to be a highly sought after and unique collection this year, so make sure you head straight down to Hall 3 H20-J21 before it flies off the stand.

Just pop by to say hello to your Sales Angel to finalise your Christmas order… or pre-order your new spring ranges… It’s all going to be there.

There’s always the fabulous prize draw to enter while you browse… It’s all Spooktacular fun as usual….

Tel: 0121 351 7457 Email: sales@heavensends.com Web: www.heavensends.com

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Autumn Fair

Wild Things Hall 5, Stand: J20

Wild Things from Devon have been madly busy re-vamping their product range. They pride themselves on their versatility, with products ranging from handmade glass to crystal earrings.

Most products are locally made and incorporate Swarovski crystal.

Customers range from independent gift shops to garden centres, with 70% of their sales going abroad.

New designs in suncatchers include glass Guardian Angels and Pegasus (illustrated). Others include puppies, cats, songbirds, teddy bears, owls and tree of life.

New Guardian angel pins, necklaces and earrings are on offer too!

Tel: 01392 211268 Web: www.wildthingsgifts.com

SIL/Sifcon Hall 3, Stand: C11

SIL are right on trend as always with their Copper range. Using Copper highlights across different metal finishes and blending these with rich mango woods has given this Collection a lovely warmth.

We particularly love the copper-top mushroom ornaments but their high shine lanterns and sequin lined candle holders are also a delight. To appreciate the full impact of this range, you really need to visit the SIL stand in Hall 3 Stand 3B10 - C11

Tel : 01992 718 033

Aroma Home Hall 3, Stand: G60

Innovative designs and a wide range of gift products has made AROMA HOME an ideal supplier for gift and home retailers worldwide.

This year AROMA HOME is extending its hugely successful knitted gift ranges to include a new knitted I LOVE MY COSY range of animal designs.

Four unique designs to include a Pug, Panda, Bunny and Penguin all filled with Tourmaline and Lavender make these the ideal Warming toy. These cuddly animals are beautifully packaged to create a fun present.

Their KNITTED HOTTIE ranges have been redesigned and this year to include Snow Owl, Polar Bear, Fox and Stag and the ranges include a wide selection of product including our ever popular Hand Warmers and Cosy Ears.

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AROMA HOME’s hugely successful FUZZY SLIPPER and FUN FOR FEET ranges continues to grow and this year we are launching a new Penguin, Owl and Pug among others.

AROMA HOME is also launching several new ranges in its increasingly popular brand of VOLUSPA candles and diffusers. VOLUSPA’S new HOLIDAY range is perfect for the Autumn/winter season.

Tel: 01793 487684 Web: www.aromahome.com

Stan d 3 W0 2

Autumn Fair

St Eval Candle Company Hall 3, Stand: H51

Although summer has been fun it is time to look forward to the nights pulling and the air getting cooler. St Eval Candle Company has all you will need to make any house feel like a home this autumn.

St Eval will be launching its biggest Christmas Candle Collection yet. This year will include five new stunning hand gold marbled candles available in their bestselling festive scents Inspiritus and Orange & Cinnamon, as well as their yuletide favorites; Figgy Pudding, Sandalwood and Embers.

Treat your senses by coming along and having a smell of more than 30 different scented candles which are all quintessentially British and very St Eval.

St Eval Candle Company will be exhibiting at the below shows this autumn: Autumn Fair Stand: 3H51 / Top Drawer: A21

Tel: 01841 540850 Email: info@stevalcandlecompany.co.uk Web: www.stevalcandlecompany.co.uk

Get crafty and creative with Great Gizmos Hall 5, Stand: D60/E61

Great Gizmos has a whole collection of autumn treats including new craft items from 4M, more exciting products from KID O, additions to the Meadow Kids range of bath toys and craft activity kits, along with a new range of pre-school books at Autumn Fair this year.

Renowned for its highly successful arts and crafts kits, Great Gizmos continues to take creative play to another level with exciting new additions to its 4M range that will appeal to every creative mind.

Have fun making and moulding stamps at home with the Dino Stamp Factory, allowing kids to add special touches to cards or notebooks with their unique stamp collection. Dinosaurs are so popular at the moment, this is sure to be a big hit!

Shrinking Craft Circus allows kids to create, design and play with their very own Circus Troupe. Coming complete with a circus play scene, 2 shrink art sheets, 4 coloured pencils and reusable adhesive that so children can make the troupe perform over and over again!

New from KID O is the stylish Pink Go Car that can be pushed and pulled across various textured surfaces with its smooth rubber wheels and easy to grip handle!

The vibrantly coloured toy provides toddlers with open ended pretend play and helps to develop their imagination!

Make funny animal combinations with the Mix and Match Animals set from KID O. The different animal animal parts all fit together to make weird and wonderful creations! Great for both family interaction and individual play as they encourage development of children’s imagination and creativity!

New from Meadow Kids are additions to the bath toys and bath stickers range, including Build a Castle that is made from chunky, fun and colourful foam material!

A simple bath time construction set that is built on a floating island for unlimited play time. Perfect for bath time fun and cognitive development!

Combine creating and reading with the interactive Timid Dinosaur Jigsaw Book!

Piece together the puzzle on each page to complete the Timid Dinosaur story!

Luxury plush and accessories collection NICI, offers everything from plush toys for tots to stationary and bedroom accessories for pre-teens. Debuting at Autumn Fair are the new NICI ranges of Winter Rabbit and Penguin, new Classic Bear, Gold Meerkat and new additions to the popular Dragon collection that includes some ferocious looking creatures!

Tel: 01293 543221 Email: enquiries@greatgizmos.co.uk 70 gifts today

We are launching a new home fragrance range in collaboration with Heyland & Whittle View the full range at the following trade shows Autumn Fair 3H44 6th - 9th September Top Drawer G49 13th - 15th September

WHITTLE

Clementine & Prosecco Let’s celebrate with some bubbles www.heylandandwhittle.co.uk sales@heylandandwhittle.co.uk

Autumn Fair 3H44 Top Drawer G49

Autumn Fair

Signature Gifts Hall 5, Stand: F51

Signature Gifts, located in Hall 5 at Stand F51, are premiering their extensive range of giftware, including their exclusive range of personalised books. Their latest publication being premiered at this year’s Autumn Fair is their Personalised Puzzle Book. With over 50 pages crammed with a wide range of head-scratching conundrums, this is the ideal companion for your favourite puzzler. From wordsearches and coffee break crosswords to codecrackers and tough-nut sudokus, this handy little book offers brainteasers for every level. Not only does the cover include their name, but there’s even a quiz based on the year chosen by you and space for your own personal message on the opening page. An ideal gift for someone who’s hooked on challenges to complete on their daily commute, or loves to ponder puzzles on an evening. Choose between a handy ring-bound travel size version, and a deluxe cloth hardback which comes gold embossed with the recipient’s name.

RRP from £19.99.

Tel: 01582 464 809 Web: www.signature-gifts.co.uk

Solo Ltd

Hall 3, Stand: V09 The KUHGLOCKE key pendant is the most beautiful ode to all Alps enthusiasts!

Ever lost your keys in your bag? The tinkling cow-bell sound is audible in both small and large bags (even stuck right in the bottom), making the beautiful and shiny keychain on a real leather strap very useful indeed. The mirror-finish nickel plated curvaceous design looks fantastic and combined with the contrasting genuine leather strap, the KUHGLOCKE is a stunning accessory.

PHILIPPI’s new brochure is hot-off-the-presss and is available in August. The full PHILIPPI range is available exclusively from Solo.

www.sololtd.com.

Email: retail@sololtd.com Web: www.sololtd.com

House of Marbles Hall 3, Stand: S50-T51

House of Marbles is the only place to visit if you want to stock some of the greatest gifts of all time – from timeless family games to a unique selection of gorgeous books, customers will be spoilt for choice.

New for autumn is an exceptionally fun Super-Secret Spy range. Available in swinging sixties packaging this innovative collection will make a fabulous pocket-money feature in any shop and includes a clever pen that lets you write secret messages and reveal them with the handy built in U.V. light.

Also new is a beautiful miniature Butterfly Kite, high speed Catapult Flyer and colourful set of Pirate Torches. Retail prices start from as little as 50p making House of Marbles the place to stop for perfect stocking fillers this Christmas.

Tel: 01626 835358 Web: www.houseofmarbles.com/trade 72 gifts today

Autumn Fair

Hall 5, Stand H01

brings scents of occasion Autumn Fair will be the first opportunity for many retailers to see new additions to the Kringle Candle range from Xystos, the home of flame and fragrance.

The 11 new scents added to the current 34 include Grey, which brings together a blend of citrus, florals, exotic woods and musk. Undertones of vanilla and Tonka bean provide an elegant base.

The famous WoodWick brand continues to delight a loyal and fastgrowing customer base and Xystos has introduced a further 12 core fragrances.

The range comprises hundreds of products across a series of collections, including Inspirational which features uplifting messages on its vessels.

There are more than 150 WoodWick jar products, available in 10oz, 22oz and 3.4oz sizes, while the gorgeous Gallerie collection has 18 pieces with intriguing names such as Bourbon Crème Brulee and Lemon Verbena.

The Reserve Collection, designed with men in mind, has fragrance notes from a male perspective and names such as Driftwood, Leather and Canyon. Each of the 24 is presented in a substantial piece of glass with stylish architectural detailing and a front label made of stamped leather.

There are 40 products in the everpopular Trilogy range, which offers three scents in one candle, and 42 pieces in the Mini Reed Diffuser range.

There is also comprehensive collection of Wax Melts.

Xystos general manager Tom Sykes says that WoodWick’s new Trilogy candle is the perfect illustration of the creativity of Virginia Gift Brands. Its Christmas Classic gives consumers three evocative festive scents in one product –Cinnamon Cheer, Frasier Fir and Candy Cane Cupcake.

“The end-user demands new and imaginative candle offerings throughout the year,” he says. “Christmas is no 74 gifts today

WoodWick’s HearthWick has been the star of 2015. The gorgeously crafted vessels and sensational scents have kept the range flying off shelves and the American suppliers are working overtime to fulfil demand from the UK exception and users are increasingly looking for candles which not only give their homes a traditional look but make a lifestyle statement.”

But it is WoodWick’s HearthWick which has been the star of 2015.

The gorgeously crafted vessels and sensational scents have kept the range flying off shelves and the American suppliers working overtime to fulfil demand from the UK. Retailers can choose from 42 products and fragrances such as Dew Drops, Jasmine and Marionberry.

Also from the US is Aquiesse, whose subtle scents and beautiful product presentation distinguish this high-end range from other brands.

Aquiesse’s Portfolio Collection comprises 40 products – 11oz and 5oz candles in gift boxes and 2oz travel tin candles. There are also reed diffuser gift sets.

The same sizes are available in the

Black Currant and White Currant collections.

Luminara from Xystos gives ‘the realistic illusion of a dancing flame’ without the worry or risks associated with real candles. New indoor colours are gold and silver, which join ivory, the only outdoor version available. And Sienna Gold home lighters not only add a touch of class to any room setting but do away with the need for messy matches. There are 15 lighters in a variety of colours and styles.

The Naked Bee pampering products continue to attract an increasing number of consumers who only want to use all of the good stuff, none of the bad stuff on their bodies. And this range meets their needs from head to toe.

Available from October will be additions to the range of Cello Drinking Jars: the Skull and Owl jars are in three colours, while Milk Bottles are offered in nine colours.

Tel: 0191 499 1570 Email: sales@xystos.co.uk www.xystostrade.co.uk

Toys t f o S e l b a H e at

The perfect bed-time companion.

Warm in a microwave to soothe, relax and comfort

See us at the Autumn Fair, Hall 5 J16 - K17 or visit www.intelexgroup.com

Autumn Fair

Arora Design Hall 5, Stand: M12

The phenomenal success of Arora Design’s Said with Sentiment ranges continued with the launch of six fabulous gift sets at Home & Gift Harrogate, where this particular collection was the star of the show. Each set comes beautifully presented in a special gift box and contains a ceramic heart suspended from an ivory ribbon and a gorgeous mug with matching design. The first sentiments to be covered in this collection are Best Friend, Friendship, Love, Mum, Sister, and Someone Special.

The perfect gift of a heart felt message for a loved one or special friend, with a fantastic RRP of £12.99

Tel: 01386 861666 Email: sales@arora-design.co.uk Web: www.arora-design.co.uk

Peace of Mind Hall 4, Stand: G31

This season simplicity is key for Peace of Mind. Simple colours, shapes and designs compliment the warmer tones of autumn and winter.

Combining smooth organic shapes with natural matte finishes, gold and rose gold, their latest collection of sterling silver and silver plated jewellery is stylish, tactile and laid back.

PoM’s must-have scarf collection comes in a glorious range of colours, in super soft fabrics. Styles range from subtle ombre’s through to bold and bright pattern and print. Touches of gold and copper detail add a touch of sparkle that will keep spirits high and creates a welcome feeling of comfort, warmth and luxury.

Tel: 01225 777749 Web: www.pom925.com

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® NEW LOWER PRICES Due to the huge success of snoozies!® globally, production costs are falling. For 2015 we have our lowest ever prices. There are copycat products but NONE offer snoozies!® quality and choice.

MORE CHOICE 25 collections • Over than 150 designs • More Huge array of fabrics • Adults, Kids, Tweens and baby •

MORE COMFORT

• • • •

ADULT ®

FROM

£6.99

RETAIL

Double Sherpa Fleece lined High quality fabrics NEW improved Ballerina Sole Heavy fabric and fleece weights

MORE SALES have sold enough snoozies • We for 1 in every 25 women in the UK brand has many end user repeat customers • The • More choice and more comfort = increased sales

Joe Davies Limited Tel: 0161 975 6300 Fax: 0161 975 6301 Email: sales@joedavies.co.uk www.joedavies.co.uk

6-9 SEPTEMBER 2015 Hall 5 Stand C10/D11

Autumn Fair

Aroma Home

Hall 3, Stand: G60 Aroma Home bespoke is expanding its private label and bespoke design service to many retailers worldwide.

Initially this service was created for major retailers but due to its success Aroma Home have extended this facility to UK buying groups and any retailer that can achieve the minimum order requirement and many who cannot meet the minimum quantity needed for a bespoke production run.

“The success of our knitted gift ranges worldwide have created a lot of interest,” says National Account Manager Gina Martin.

“Where our design team create a range for an overseas customer, we have the possibility of adding to our production run and offer a unique bespoke product to many UK retailers who cannot meet our MOQ requirements.”

“We are seeing a significant increase in enquiries for product that cannot be

found in the mainstream gift market as many retailers want to create a point of difference in their gift offering,” says Martin.

“We are currently working on ranges for Easter and Mother’s Day and welcome all enquiries for retailers who want a unique gifting option.”

Tel: 01793487684 Web: www.aromahome.com

Royal Selangor R

oyal Selangor, the world’s largest pewter company, has announced an exciting new collaboration with The Walt Disney Company to develop a collection to commemorate STAR WARS, one of the most successful movie franchises of all time.

The collaboration will debut with its UK trade launch at Autumn Fair 2016, NEC Birmingham, 6th - 9th September where the collection will be showcased in Hall 5, Stand 5K60. The launch previews the first phase of Royal Selangor’s Star Warsthemed luxury pewter merchandise and accessories which will be extended during the next three years. The initial range includes Limited Edition figurines as well as collectibles including cufflinks, flash drives, tumblers and tankards.

78 gifts today

Hall 5, Stand: K60

Tel: 020 7474 5511 Email: david.mills@royalselengor.com Web: www.royalselangor.com

Visit - www.ggtrade.co.uk or call us - 01293 543221

TOYS GIFTS and great ideas!

VISIT US AT AUTUMN FAIR

6TH -9TH SEPTEMBER NEC BIRMINGHAM HALL 5: D60 - E61

Autumn Fair

Boxer Gifts

Hall 5, Stand: A10 Boxer Gifts are fired up for Autumn Fair and have some fantastic new products to share with customers new and established.

Sitting alongside their most popular and bestselling lines, there’ll also be some new ideas that you may not have seen before.

They’re really excited to be adding four rather special mugs, with hashtag shaped handles and fun slogans. In four fun designs, the handle is shaped like a hashtag with phrases such as #needcoffee and #justsayin. The mugs make great gifts for social media addicts!

They’ll also have their Christmas products – including their wonderful snowmen, stunning celebration glassware, fun and cheeky homeware and a wide range of books for adults and children of all ages.

Tel: 0113 395 5596 www.boxergifts.com

Joe Davies Hall 5, Stand: C10/D11

Popular Equilibrium collection

Scarves from Joe Davies’ Equilibrium collection have proved to be top seller in the run up to Christmas. This year to make their popular scarves even more desirable as a gift many come in smart, branded Equilibrium boxes just perfect for Christmas gifting.

The new scarves come in a range of lovely materials and designs to appeal to all ages and are joined by smart boxed gloves, hats and men’s scarves too.

All are complimented by hundreds of new jewellery pieces from the Equilibrium Collection. Buying from Joe Davies is easy and inexpensive as their minimum order is just £100 & delivery is free nationwide.

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Time to snoozies! snoozies! are Joe Davies best-selling line ever and snoozies! bling are the best of the best. Bling are available in six jewelled sequin colours and for Dorothy fans are also available in red only. There are lovely tween bling snoozies! too to fit kids and teenagers.

This year Joe Davies have negotiated the price of snoozies! down and bling will now retail at a market beating £7.99.

Six gorgeous new snoozies! ranges will be introduced on Joe Davies Autumn Fair stand (5C10/ D11) and judging by customer reaction at Harrogate Home & Gift then this autumn and winter looks like being the best for snoozies! so far.

Tel: 0161 975 6300 email: sales@joedavies.co.uk web: www.joedavies.co.uk

Doorstops, draught excluders and much much more!

LAUNCHING NEW RANGES AND BEAUTIFUL ADDITIONS TO EXISTING RANGES

Visit us at

AUTUMN FAIR, HALL 3 T22-U23

w: www.doradesigns.co.uk l t: 01780 0 430188 l f: 08432 0 161879 l e: enquiries@doradesigns.co.uk

Autumn Fair

Arora Design Hall 5, Stand: M12

A fabulous new range from the Said with Sentiment brand by Arora Design, featuring a jigsaw design, which allows the consumer to build their family collection piece by interlocking piece. Designs include, Family, Home, Love, Mum, Dad, Son, Daughter and a special version containing photo frames so personal photos can be added. A fabulous collection which can be added to over time, from both gifts or self-purchases.

Each piece comes in a gift box, which also contains two wooden dowels so the consumer can choose to stand an individual piece rather than hanging it on the wall. RRP £9.99 for the printed items and £12.99 for the special photo frame.

Tel: 01386 861666 Email: sales@arora-design.co.uk Web: www.arora-design.co.uk

Gaeltag Keltika Hall 3, Stand: Y04

New for this Christmas is Build-a-Bauble, a range of personalisable flashing LED Christmas baubles. The introduction of this new line from Gaeltag Keltika builds on the great success of their existing personalisable bauble concept, Your Name in Lights.

The Build-a-Bauble concept features all blank baubles which consumers can customise from scratch. Simply pick a bauble colour from the seven options available, then choose your stickers from the themed designs (Christmas trees, Santas, Owls, and butterflies), add letter sheets – and decorate!

Everyone can have their own unique, tailor-made bauble and It’s a fun, creative concept, which parents will love children to get involved with. Ideal as

82 gifts today

party favours as well as stocking fillers.

The new product also offers retailers maximum flexibility, lower risk with no unsaleable names; more opportunity to add value, as the learning from many retailers is that consumers are happy to pay a premium for the baubles when retailers offer a customising service. Finally, the choice of sticker themes means the selling period can extend beyond the Christmas season.

Fully merchandised stands are available for £799 and the bauble RRP is £4.99.

Gaeltag Keltika will be in NEC Hall 3 Stand 3Y O4 and Top Drawer L44

Tel: 020 8998 1781 Email: sales@gaeltag. com Web: www. gaeltagkeltika.com

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If you want to reach 7,100* total average net circulation, then call Mark Horsnell on 01442 289930 or email markh@lemapublishing.co.uk *. Circulation figure relates to period from 1st July 2013 to 30th June 2014

For more information visit www.abc.org.uk or email info@abc.org.uk

Autumn Fair

David Fischhoff Hall 5, Stand: J31

This year, David Fischhoff will be showcasing their best selling ranges of memorial items along with new and amazing innovative products which include Christmas gifts, novelties and flower arrangements, Fibre optic flowers, light up rose twig trees and our very own exclusive designs in LED canvases.

Their prices are highly competitive and a product range that can only enhance what you already stock to increase both turnover and profit.

There will also be a variety of show special offers including clearance lines at rock bottom prices.

Tel: 0161 832 6475 or 0161 832 6418 Email: accounts@davidfischhoff.co.uk or sales@davidfischhoff.co.uk Web: www.davidfischhoff.co.uk

D & J Glassware Hall 5, Stand: F16

No visit to Autumn Fair would be complete without spending time viewing the beautiful glassware at D & J Glassware (Hall 5 Stand F16). David and Jocelyne work hard to develop great new ideas and enjoy the opportunity to show their lovely glass designs to customers old and new. There is always something different to catch the eye and this year is no exception.

“Our gorgeous mirrors are a new extension to our range and are going down well with our customers. We are enlarging the collection and are looking forward exhibiting them all at Autumn Fair.” Jocelyne adds: “it’s important to us that our products look good in the home; if they can combine style with function, then we’ve achieved our goal.”

With no minimum order and practical lead-times, D & J Glassware ensures you can offer your customers the very best in gorgeous glassware throughout the year. For some fresh ideas, make time to visit the company’s stand.

Tel: 01953 450 280 Web: www.dandjglassware.co.uk

Edge Sculpture Hall 2, Stand: G39

Edge Sculpture is a unique style of sculpture that merges primeval emotion with that of pure animal instinct and prowess of stature.

The portfolio has become increasingly more sought after and the depth of subjects touched upon more diverse. This has broadened Edges appeal into many marketplaces with the impact of seeing them in the flesh seemingly furthering their allure.

Sculpted by Matt Buckley, this striking range is constantly evolving and they intend to premiere several of Matt’s new pieces, including some surprises, at this year’s Autumn Fair.

Tel: 01952 884804 Email: sales@edgesculpture.com Web: www.edgesculpture.com

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01873 812255 info@mandarinarts.co.uk

Autumn Fair Hall 2 Stand F43 Tableware• Porcelain• Figurines• Brocade• Lamps•

& &''

!"! #$%% % %%

!

• Jade • Gifts • Games • Bronze • Pictures • Jewellery • Furniture • Objets d’Art

Explore our range at www.mandarinarts.co.uk

Autumn Fair

RJB Stone

Hall 3, Stand: J50-L51 Showcasing an extensive new A/W collection of over 2000 on-trend gifts and home accessories, RJB Stone, the home of Sass & Belle promise to enchant retailers at Autumn Fair 2015. Lovingly crafted and designed to embrace the latest trends, RJB Stone’s Sass & Belle products blend their unique style with inspiring themes and quintessentially British humour. Turning houses into homes and moments into memories, the company provide a remarkable range of products, from bright and beautiful soft furnishings and retro look kitchenware to satchels and kid’s tea sets, RJB Stone proudly offer

something for all ages, occasions and tastes.

Visit RJB Stone, the home of Sass & Belle, at Autumn Fair in Hall 3 Stands J50-L51

Tel: 0207 346 0100 Web: www.rjbenquiries.com Web: www.rjbstone.com

Gaeltag Keltika Hall 3, Stand: Y04

Gaeltag Keltika are delighted to introduce an innovative new line of fun and fabulous flashing LED gift bows for Christmas 2015 Flashy Bows. Featuring four different designs of bows, in five colourways (gold, silver, red, iridescent pearl and iridescent lavender blue), there are a total of 20 variants. The items have certainly captured the interest of consumers in market research carried out by the company, and will particularly delight any child who is lucky enough to receive a gift bedecked with these bedazzling beauties.

Each bow comes on a hang tag which is perfect for merchandising on j hooks but the ideal merchandising location is adjacent to Christmas gift wrap and cards with the colour options carefully selected to complement virtually any style of gift wrap. Each Flashy Bow comes with adhesive pad, and on/off switch. To maximize impact make sure a display bow is lit up.

Selling at an RRP of just £2.49, Flashy Bows are the perfect impulse purchase and are set to put a shine on Christmas sales.

Gaeltag Keltika are showing in NEC Hall 3 Stand 3Y O4, and Top Drawer L44

Tel: 020 8998 1781 Email: sales@gaeltag.com www.gaeltagkeltika.com 86 gifts today

5 ir all 2 Fa C H L5 mn NE and utu St at A ou ey

Se

Personalise

your Winter

Wonderland GiftScribes hanging Christmas decorations are highly collectible as personal keepsakes, because they are personalisable for all of the family, at the point of sale.

We offer one of the largest collections of hanging and table top decorations for the UK and all are manufactured to a long-lasting high quality; with attention to detail and unique designs.

Proven demand t Good margins Small minimum orders t Personal service Christmas

by GiftScribes Gifts

www.giftscribes.co.uk

eMail: sales@giftscribes.co.uk Call: 01584 811 190

See us at Autumn Fair 4H48

Simply gorgeous jewellery and scarves Telephone: 01905 622509

•

Online: missmilly.co.uk

Autumn Fair

Hall 5, Stand H39

Buy British with Country Candles This issue, Gifts Today delves deeper to find out about The Country Candle Company, their heritage and a look to the future.

When was The Country Candle Company formed?

Hamish got involved with the family business from school. Hamish was able to develop his entrepreneurial and design skills in the world of natural stone. But fragrance and design was his passion and hobby and it wasn’t until years later in 2010 that The Country Candle Company was born.

What is the inspiration behind the company?

To manufacturer good quality, British made home fragrancing products. It is as simple as that.

You have your own manufacturing facility here in the UK, what benefit does that bring?

We have complete control on the quantities and timescales, therefore we can keep costs to a minimum and the price point attractive to both the retailer and the consumer. But far more importantly we have complete visibility and control over the quality of the products we are producing.

They are made right here in Wiltshire, our offices are on site – it’s the perfect set up.

How do you select seasonal scents?

We keep in touch with trends and consumer comments and demands.

We listen to the market and work with a leading English perfumer to work to produce great fragrances.

How many products are currently in your range?

Wow, products, there are many.

Ranges, we currently have 15 different fragrance collections plus the new accessories launching at Autumn Fair at the NEC in Birmingham.

Do you just produce candles, or are there more products to complement your ranges?

Each of our collections has candles in different offerings and designs plus reed diffusers. Reed diffusers are a growing market with the technology becoming very sophisticated and the options for bottle designs is vast. We 88 gifts today

have everything from rounder shaped fragrance offering this year. bottles to the new Wonderwick and What plans for expansion are on Town & Country Reed Diffusers with a the horizon? cleaner line and contemporary look.

We are looking to expand our offering We also have Wax Melts in the Town in France and Germany plus UAE. & Country range.

What can visitors expect to find How often to you refresh your on your stand this year at Autumn ranges?

Fair?

We aim to launch new fragrances We are launching the stunning each quarter and we are constantly Wonderwick Noir, this gives a very developing new looks and styles to different look for the brand and will keep the range current whilst keeping hopefully attract new customers whilst The Country Candle Company look offering something new to our existing and feel of the brand. ones. Plus we are expanding the Town What about retailer support, how & Country collection and launching a important is this to you? range of seasonal accessories.

The more we support the retailer, the Will you be running any specific easier it is for them to display and show offers? sell through the products. Therefore, Of course, 10% off all orders placed on it is imperative that we look at ways the stand at the show, if you show this we can help. We offer display stands. interview.

Point of sale, stand alone displays, Why is this such an important event merchandising advice and we also in your trade show calendar? work to constantly promote the brand Autumn Fair is perfectly timed and with PR and social media keeping it in placed for this all important A/W orders. the forefront of consumers minds.

As we are manufactured in the UK we Do you have a minimum order don’t have long delays on production policy? and shipping, we can deliver as and No, but we offer free carriage paid with when our customers need us to. all orders over £300.00.

What product is performing particularly Tel: +44 (0)1225 794920 well for you at present? Have your Email: sales@thecountrycandlecompany.com retail partner noted Web: www.thecountrycandlecompany.com a ‘hero’ product or fragrance?

Up until last year it would have been our long standing Superstars Collections. But last year we launched our Town & country range and this has had a phenomenal response hence we have expanded the

The Walking Stick Specialists

Autumn Fair September 6 –10.

Hall 4 / Stand C 02

Autumn Fair NEC, September 6 – 10. 2015 Special offers available Contact: Richard Weitzkorn 07956424482, email: richard@ambproducts.co.uk

Christmas · Autumn · Everyday 2015

5 ir all 2 Fa C H L5 mn NE and utu St at A ou ey

plan for

Se

Back Up

kids!

Traditional and contemporary walking sticks, seat seats and umbrellas for ladies and gentlemen

Autumn Fair: Hall 4, Stand N03

Please contact us for a trade catalogue: Warren House, Hinton St George, Somerset TA17 8TQ Tel +44 (0)1460 75686 www.classiccanes.co.uk Also on Facebook and Instagram.

Carrie Elspeth EXCLUSIVE DESIGNER JEWELLERY H A N D M A D E I N WA L E S

No excuse is really needed when it comes to buying gifts for children and demand for piggy banks can be year round.

GiftScribes offer a beautiful range of traditional piggy banks and contemporary money boxes in sturdy ceramic with a hardwearing glaze and brightly coloured, themed artwork. Everyone takes a £2 coin and 2015 sees new designs.

Proven demand t Good margins Small minimum orders t Personal service

www.giftscribes.co.uk

Piggy Banks

eMail: sales@giftscribes.co.uk Call: 01584 811 190

Autumn Fair 4G36 & Top Drawer Y31 Showing Autumn & previewing Christmas 2015 Tel: 01446 771271 Email: sales@carrieelspeth.com www.carrieelspeth.com

Autumn Fair

Fizz Creations

Hall 5, Stand: B60-C61

Well, yet again Fizz Creations has managed to carefully design and select a huge number of new products and ranges for Autumn Fair plus a brand new supplement catalogue.

The spectacular new products include the Colour Changing Moon Lamp, just another fantastic edition to their ever expanding lighting collection. The lamp is a shining star in the collection and definitely gives and out of this world atmosphere when on. With 16 colour settings, four mood settings and adjustable brightness this is mood lighting at its most versatile!

To have a sneak peek at this and so many more of their brand new products, just pop by the stand and say hello.

Tel: 01903 327006 Web: www.fizzcreations.com

Miss Milly

Hall 4, Stand: H48 Miss Milly, the British brand for gorgeous jewellery and scarves, will be at Autumn Fair with a plethora of new lines in on-trend colours. Look out for beautiful peacock blues, amethyst purples and paprika oranges in co-ordinating scarves and jewellery. Plus new matt gold and rose gold plated finishes. Fantastic prices and great quality backed up by an efficient, friendly service, you can order at the show or browse the website now. Branded packaging and display stands also available. minimum order is £50 with no minimum order quantities. Delivery is charged at £6.95, carriage paid for orders over £250 (UK mainland).

Tel: 01905 622509 www.missmilly.co.uk

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Suppliers of Wedding & Party Accessories

Presenting... mber

septe

6-9

Autumn Fair Stand 3U41 A beautiful range of tableware and decorations to add some Scandi-inspired style to your festive celebrations.

fabulously n Autumn fair international NEC ew 21 -J Hall 3H20

come home fo r Christmas. ..

0845 638 1358

neviti.com

One Maybrook Business Park . Maybrook Road . Minworth . Birmingham . B76 1AL . UK T: +44 (0)121 351 7457 . F: +44 (0)121 313 3234 . E: sales@heavensends.com

Stand out from the crowd

Come and see the UK’s favourite supplier of quality handmade Tree of Life Balls, Friendship collections and popular Fused Glass designs Autumn Fair Hall 5 Stand F16 www.dandjglassware.co.uk Tel: 01953 450280

Gadgets & Gizmos

Toys for the Boys High-definition televisions, iPhones, Samsung Galaxy, tablets, laptops – what more could any man want?

F

or many the words gadget and man go together like love and marriage, apples and pears, eggs and bacon and even gadgets and gizmos.

The first thought is that this is an exclusive man area. It’s the boys in the world who are the quickest to snap up the latest hi-def telly, tablet, laptop or smart phone.

Indeed, one member of staff here at Lema Towers is so into the newest and latest electrical products that he (naturally, he) was nicknamed Inspector Gadget by a colleague in a former life.

We decided to put gadgets and gizmos under the spotlight and find out more about this enthralling category.

Tracy Roe of Boxer said: “Gadgets and gizmos are often the ‘gift for the man who has everything’. They’re

a recent story that teenage girls are becoming even more concerned about their appearance because of the way their photos (selfies) will be judged on Facebook, Twitter and the like.

For men the gadget has to be more useful than a piece of plastic that holds a mobile; it has to have buttons, or flashing lights, or make noises. In short it has to do something functional.

Naomi Dewell understands. She says: “For men’s gift giving the fun racing character of the car charger or the handy pocket sized multi USB charging cable are important to their buying decision.”

NPW also want to appeal to a female audience so they make their products in bright colours and are smooth to the touch.

It is a mistake to assume that price

“Gadgets and gizmos are often the ‘gift for the man who has everything’.”

Tracy Roe of Boxer usually tech-orientated or novelty items that a customer sees and identifies with – the kind of things you see customers picking up with an exclamation of ‘I know who’d love one of these!’ It’s that connection between product and recipient that gives these products so much appeal.”

Naomi Dewell, the Product Development Manager for the tech department of NPW, told us that in her view the male exclusivity of the category is slightly off base.

“The items we have done [in our new tech range Electric Jelly] have quite a mixed appeal for both men and women.

“For women there are the bright colours and the extra appeal is the soft touch and handy size of such items as the power banks and the selfie stick.”

The selfie stick is probably one gadget that has a much more definite female fan base than a male one.

Women and girls it would seem like to take their own picture much more than the male side do; there was even 92 gifts today

is a major concern when it comes to buying Tracy Roe tells us: “Gadgets and gizmos don’t have to be expensive electronic items – simple novelty items and ‘useful’ products make great pick-up lines for male occasions. And innovative gizmos can be refreshingly low-fi: our Itch Assassin and Fly Assassin products are pretty old school but they’re still immensely popular.”

What sort of trends are seen? Sporty ones? We are at the start of a new football season and just had the Ashes with the Rugby World Cup to come.

Tracy Roe thinks not. “Trend-wise, we’re seeing interest in beer gadgets and gizmos – probably because of the wider trend for real ales and craft beers – with our retro-styled Army Man Bottle Opener leading the way for useful gadgets and gizmos.”

It would seem that the category is more geared to men than women but at least it means that dad or granddad won’t have to put up with yet another pair of socks at Christmas.

Steepletone

Electronics gift company Steepletone, who are now in their 43rd year, are constantly inventing and innovating their growing range of unique electronic gifts.

The company has solid foundations and is a family run business that was founded by Tony Tyler, who remains the company Chairman, with the Managing Director being his son Mark Tyler.

Visit www.steepletone.com where you will find a display of design led radios, jukeboxes, radios, telephones, clock radios and one of the largest ranges of vinyl turntables with or without CD, Radio and Bluetooth, all produced in a variety of the latest colours and finishes.

Tel: 01869 812820 Web: www.steepletone.com

Did you know?

• The word gizmo originated in the early 1940s but no one knows where it came from.

• The first portable calculators appeared in Japan in 1970, • The first hand-held mobile phone (in 1973) weighed almost 4½lbs.

• Mobiles are in the World Health Organisation’s category 2B, alongside coffee and other possibly carcinogenic substances.

• Personal organiser Psion did not issue a Psion 4 supposedly because the number is unlucky in Asia. A similar reason why there was no Windows 9.

• The first BlackBerry device, the 850, was introduced in 1999.

Amazing Unique

Electronic Gifts Autumn VisitFair Our Hall Stand5atStand A31 F44

Established 1972

email: sales@steepletone.com Tel: 01869 812828

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MYO MYO Pic Pic ‘N’ ‘N Mix ‘N’ Mix x The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by Fizz Creations is under license. Other trademarks and trade names are those of their respective owners.

Visit us at Autumn Fair, Hall 5, Stand 5B60-C61 www.fizzcreations.com e:sales@fizzcreations.com t:01903 327006

Gadgets & Gizmos

Fizz Creations

With so many new items to present at Autumn Fair, Fizz Creations has the collection needed to cater for all tastes. If your taste is for remote controlled vehicles then you have two of the coolest RC items around to go and see.

The RC Mini Cooper is a fully licensed remote controlled car which not only looks sleek and stylish but handles like a dream too. Whizz round corners, do slick tricks or go off-roading as if you are running from a bank robbery – these bad boys do it all. There is also the Quadcopter – small in size but not in skill! This is a manoeuvring king with its four rotating blade – perfect for precision flying but still can be handled by an RC beginner.

To see these amazing RC items and so much more, just stop by the stand and ask to see their products – new and old!

Autumn Fair: Hall 5, Stand B60-C61

Tel: 01903 327006 Web: www.fizzcreations.com

Personalised Memento Company

PMC is the market leader in supplying personalised gifts to the trade.

They offer a huge range to cover every taste and personality. Gadgets are a great gift category for the man who already has everything. One of PMC’s bestselling gadgets is their personalised multifunctional pen knife and box.

A handy device with over 10 functions including a corkscrew, nail puller and sewing eye, screwdriver, blade, saw, fish scaler, can opener and screwdriver.

It comes complete, presented in an engraved tin and the tool set is individually personalised with initials or a name, this makes a great gift for any camper, fisherman and all about handy man.

The personalised gadget range from PMC also includes a torch set, engraved USB drive, bottle openers plus many more. See PMC’s gadgets and other ranges at Autumn Fair Hall 5 Stand K03.

Tel: 01782 744 900 Email: sales@personalisedmemento.co.uk Web: www.personalisedmemento.co.uk

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Ashleigh & Burwood

The perfect gift this Christmas, Ashleigh & Burwood’s amora Scent Hubs provide so much more than a home fragrance solution, they provide a multisensory experience. A safe, stylish and flameless way of fragrance the home, the amora Scent Hub uses untrasonic technology to break down a combination of water aromatherapy oils into micro-fine particles and releases them into the atmosphere. This, alongside ambient mood lighting with both fixed-light and colour-changing options available, creates the perfect environment to relax and unwind within the home. The apollo and harmonia models boast an integrated Bluetooth speaker allowing music to be streamed to the scent hub from a smartphone, tablet or MP3 device.

Tel: 01932 267060 Email: info@ashleigh-burwood.co.uk Web: www.ashleigh-burwood-trade.co.uk

Puckator

Puckator have a huge selection of gadgets and gizmos to suit your customers, and all at great pocket money prices. Many of their small gadgets come in bespoke counter display boxes, these help to maximise sales and make it easier for you to display the product well.

Their fun selection of LED torches are available in various designs including these bullets, a mini fire extinguisher and a grenade gun.

Puckator also offer a wide range of light-up keyrings with animal and Christmas designs which make all sorts of noises when you press them!

Find Puckator at Autumn Fair Stand 5K02-L03 or Top Drawer London Stand D41.

Tel: 0800 011 6969 Email: customerservices@puckator.co.uk Web: www.puckator.co.uk

NPW

NPW presents their new range of fun gadgets that will get you tech savvy in no time.

Introducing Electric Jelly; offering products that give charge, sync and sound to your life. From sleek, compact Skinny Power Banks to small but powerful Bluetooth speakers. You can catch the perfect pic with our selfie stick or charge on the go with the car charger. Electric Jelly adds ease and fun to your everyday.

Tel: 020 8735 2882 Web: www.npw.co.uk

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Top Drawer

13th – 15th September 2015

From far and wide

Top Drawer and Home return this September to Olympia London with a host of new exhibitors, in what will be, their biggest Autumn shows yet. Two exhaustive trade shows under one roof will offer buyers a fantastic opportunity to re-stock and refresh their stores in time for the allimportant Christmas season.

T

he Top Drawer and Home team have travelled far and wide to thoughtfully curate and edit a super trade event, making it easier for buyers to find beautifully designed products with commercial appeal.

And with ninety percent of exhibitors exclusive to the show, Top Drawer and Home will be the only place to see brands like Phaidon, La Bruket, Balvi, Alessi, LSA international, Sia fashion and Leonardo this autumn.

Director of Business Development at Clarion Events Ltd, Ian Rudge stated: “This really is an exciting show - it’s our biggest ever autumn event. With

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a thriving Top Drawer, a second edition of Home that has grown by over 40% and the presence of the best design led brands in the business from every sector. I’m confident our visitors will be very happy. What is particularly pleasing is that buyers will see so many favourites who have not shown in London for many years, such as Sia, Leonardo and One world, and a host of brands who are new to the UK such as Canvas, direct from New York.”

As one of the UK’s definitive designled gift trade events, Top Drawer will bring together the latest trends through an extensive range of products. The show is conveniently arranged into five different product sectors: Gift, Stationery & Greetings, Fashion Accessories, Children’s, and Wellbeing; to facilitate an enjoyable browsing experience where buyers can easily locate the products that will make their stores stand out.

Leading brands already confirmed to appear include: Beefayre, Museums & Galleries, 1973 Ltd, Anorak, Balvi, Best Years Ltd, Cubic, j-me, La Bruket, Miss Etoile Aps, Nkuku. Ohh Deer, Orla Kiely, Phaidon, Pilgrim, Polite Company, RICE, SENCE Copenhagen, Wild And Wolf Ltd and many more.

After the success of last year’s inaugural autumn edition, Home returns alongside Top Drawer, showcasing an impressive selection of modern, classic

As one of the UK’s definitive design-led gift trade events, Top Drawer will bring together the latest trends through an extensive range of products.

The show is conveniently arranged into five different product sectors: Gift, Stationery & Greetings, Fashion Accessories, Children’s, and Wellbeing; to facilitate an enjoyable browsing experience where buyers can easily locate the products that will make their stores stand out and vintage homewares to suit every budget. A significant number of Home exhibitors are international exhibitors that have never exhibited at the show so buyers will be hard pressed to find such an exciting and surprising array of products in one location. The impressive list of UK and international exhibitors cover all aspects of the home from interior accessories and kitchen and dining, to soft furnishings and furniture and lighting.

Look out for the following leading brands at this year’s show: A.U. Masion, Alessi, Black + Blum, SIA Home Fashion, Ulster Weavers, Di Classe, Forma House, Parlane, Garden Trading, Haus, Leonardo, LSA International, MAKE International,

Margo Selby, London Ornaments, Melody Rose, Terrace & Garden, Uberstar, Umbra, White Brands and many more.

Now established as one of Top Drawer’s main attractions, new design showcase Spotted has helped more than 80 pledging business – including Nikki McWilliams, Space la Design and One Must Dash – break into the allimportant trade fair market.

“Spotted just goes from strength to strength,” says curator Charlotte Abrahams. “I am constantly amazed by how much creative talent there is in the UK and I’m delighted to be able to introduce some of that talent to an international retail audience.”

The autumn edition not only brings

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Top Drawer

10 brand new names to Top Drawer, but sees some of the best of 2014’s showcases return under the Spotted+ banner. Spotted at Top Drawer is a celebration of innovative, market-ready design.

In another exciting development, expect to see a new seminar programme at the show this September. Specifically designed with the retailer in mind, The Academy will feature presentations from some of the biggest experts in the retail industry across all three days of the show. The Academy will also offer retail support 365 days a year via an online platform on the Top Drawer website, offering access to relevant, retail-specific updates, providing business insight and advice from industry experts and trend-

setters long after the event is over.

Top Drawer and Home will take place at the spacious Olympia exhibition space in central London for the second year. Spread across four halls on two levels, Olympia’s bright and airy space is the ideal venue for browsing the expansive range of products on offer from more than one thousand leading UK and international brands.

Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this ultimate design destination in time for the Autumn/Winter season.

Register online now to attend both shows here. www.topdrawer.co.uk www.home-london.net

Venue Olympia London, Hammersmith Road, Kensington, London, W14 8UX Opening Times Sunday 13th September: 9.30 – 18.00 Monday 14th September: 9.30 – 18.00 Tuesday 15th September: 9.30 – 17.00

Did you know?

• Launch of amazing brands: Cath Kidston, Joseph Joseph, One World, Trunki, Ella Doran • The Duchess of Cambridge shopped at the show when working at Jigsaw and was spotted leaving the show by The Sun • Some of the biggest stores attend the show with the top 10 department stores all attending to find their next best-sellers • Almost one million people have walked through the doors since Top Drawer was born • Social Media – more combined followers than any other show in Europe 98 gifts today

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New – V&A Bookmarks:

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prize draw

New – V&A Gift Tag & Parcel Sticker Sets:

Fine Fragrance Candles Loving Hand-Poured Made in England

www.themeltco.com “Look for a lovely thing and you will find it -shining brightly.

It is not far... Never far”.

“Candles by melt boast an exquisitely distressed patina and recherché sent”.

FT Weekend Magazine

Stand K31 01200 443377 •email: info@themeltco.com

Tel: 01373 462165 Email: sales@mgml.co.uk

www.museumsgalleries.co.uk

Top Drawer

Beefayre Stand: G48

The worker bees slow down at this time of year, spending more time in the hive preparing for the winter, and likewise it is a season of indulgence, comfort and restoration for us.

Beefayre’s 2015A/W collection embraces the change of seasons with new, warming and festive aromas, all beautifully boxed with new colourful and contemporary designs. The collection includes large candles, votives, tea lights

Puckator Stand: D41

Puckator are celebrating their 25th anniversary and will be launching hundreds of new design led gift lines this autumn.

Their UK-based design team are constantly striving to produce contemporary and exciting new collections so you always have the latest on-trend products for your customers. Visit their stand to see new designs such as Christmas Pugs & Kisses, Tropical Flamingo, London Map and Botanical Gardens.

Expanding on their ever-popular solar powered dancing characters, Puckator have introduced some brand new designs including the Saluting Guardsman which can stand alongside their top-selling Queen. They also have an officially licensed Dancing Mr Bean, part of their growing licensed giftware range which includes brands such as The Beatles Yellow Submarine and Disney’s Frozen.

Visit them at Stand D41 to collect a limited edition Puckator bag and free gift to celebrate.

Tel: 0800 011 6969 Email: customerservices@puckator.co.uk Web: www.puckator.co.uk

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and room diffusers; with the candles featuring an elegant metallic print.

By buying Beefayre products customers are directly helping save bees, as 3% of the company’s profits are donated to bee conservation.

Tel: 01858 434492 Email: sales@beefayre.com Web: www.beefayre.com

Home fragrance redefined MADE IN THE UNITED KINGDOM

Inch Blue Stand: R46

Wolfie + Willow’s handmade moccasins are made using vegetable tanned eco leather. This means the leather has been tanned using only vegetable substances such as rhubarb. Suitable for allergy sufferers Wolfie + Willow moccasins are not only stylish but ethical too. Each pair is presented in a fully recyclable, environmentally friendly gift box.

Wolfie + Willow shoes will be available at Top Drawer, stand R46, along with Inch Blue.

Tel: +44(0)1495 366 134 Email: support@wolfieandwillow.com Web: www.wolfieandwillow.com

XYSTOS Stand U50

Xystos, the home of flame and fragrance, has raised the bar for candle products in the UK, propelling them into the must have lifestyle category with a range of beautiful products fit to grace any home.

The gorgeously crafted HearthWick vessels and stunning scents give retailers repeat business across 42 products and fragrances. Kringle Candle sees 11 new scents added, and the famous WoodWick brand has introduced a further 12 core fragrances.

Subtle scents and distinctive presentation distinguish high-end Aquiesse from other brands, while Luminara gives ‘the realistic illusion of a dancing flame’ without the worry or risks associated with real candles.

Look out too for Cello Drinking Jars and Milk Bottles.

Tel: 0191 499 1570 Email: sales@xystos.co.uk www.xystostrade.co.uk

Visit us at the Autumn Fair NEC Birmingham 2015 Hall 5 Stand 5H39.

Request our brochure: t 01225 794920 e sales@thecountrycandlecompany.com www.thecountrycandlecompany.com The Country Candle Company · Aroma House · Unit 10 Hercules Way Bowerhill Industrial Estate · Melksham SN12 6TS gifts today 101

Top Drawer

Gaeltag Keltika Stand: L44

CowParade is gearing up for a bumper autumn this year with three very good reasons to get hold of these quality collectibles for your store.

Firstly, a hefty 20% off standard pricing thanks to currency movements – finally some good news thanks to the euro!

Secondly, some excellent new merchandising incentives available for orders placed at shows.

Cowparade are offering a free calf-sized Mini-moo display table with selected purchases from this top-selling range. Perfect for any retail outlet with space to make an impactful display, this is a limited offer so garden centres and outlets with gallery style space should capitalise on a great opportunity. If you haven’t quite got the space to have a herd of cows hoofing through your store then take a look at the other offers available - free Cowparade figurines for orders over £500 and £300.

Thirdly, there are new models launching now for the Christmas season, so no excuses for not trying out these replicas of lifesized artworks by artists from around the globe this autumn.

Tel: 020 8998 1781 Email: sales@gaeltag.com Web: www.gaeltagkeltika.com and www.cowparade.eu

Melt

Stand: K31 After an exciting 2014 and an equally exuberant first half of 2015, Melt are delighted, to again be exhibiting at The Harrogate Home and Gift Show.

Melt have 30 stunning fragrances in the Candle range across six different sizes of which 13 are also available in the Melt Reed Diffusers.

The new Garden Collection consists of five glorious fragrances all of which are pure and true to the flowers they represent, these are: Lavender, Wisteria, Hyacinth, Carnation, and Lily of The Valley. The new collection is proving to be very popular, especially with the new Pewter name badge and logo which is now attached to the candle- making them an even more special gift.

As always, Melt products are all handmade in the lovely Ribble Valley in Lancashire and produced especially to order.

Tel: 01200 443377 E mail: info@themeltco.com Web: www.themeltco.com

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V&A Licensing continues the museum’s founding mission, taking inspiration from its extraordinarily diverse collections, to drive and excite designers, manufacturers and retailers. Licensing partners throughout the world create a broad range of products, from jewellery and beauty accessories to ceramic tableware, stationery and interior furnishings.

For further information contact: Lauren Sizeland Director of Business Development & Licensing +44 (0)20 7942 2981 licensing@vam.ac.uk

www.vandalicensing.com

Retail Interview Box of Delights

Delightful celebrations Keeping any business going for 25 years is a major achievement and probably even more so for an independent greetings and gift store in a small town given the economic difficulties over the past quarter century, and that’s just what the mum and daughter team of Jan Ward and Michelle Ellingham have done in Flitwick, Beds. Gifts Today had the pleasure to question them to find out more.

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Reaching the quarter-century milestone is a great achievement for an independent greetings and gift store, what’s the story behind Box Of Delights?

The story began quite by chance but also impulsively in May 1990.

My mum Jan and I didn’t have any retail experience between us but we wanted a change of careers so, when a parade of five retail units in the small commuter town of Flitwick in Bedfordshire were being developed with completion in October, we jumped at the chance of a new challenge.

We both had a similar interest in home accessories and design-led gifts and greetings cards and spent much of our time together shopping in boutiques, gift and antique shops buying unique and quirky gifts for family and friends. We knew we must go with our instincts and open a gift shop.

There was so much to do in a very short time, from agreeing on

calendars and this proved to be a huge mistake.

We opened the doors to Box Of Delights at 9am on Friday, 26 October, 1990, and as we are next door to the Thameslink railway station, as it was known then, we decided to stay open until 6pm to see if we would attract any commuters on their way home.

There was me, Jan, and our helpers Mollie and Jan B, all nervous, excited and ready to meet our customers.

We’ve never looked back we still open until 6pm every day plus 11am to 4pm on a Sunday.

Last year we were lucky enough to be nominated for a RETAs award by a very influential and respected greetings card company for Best Card Retailer in the Home Counties & South East. We were so proud and excited to be recognised within this wonderful industry. We made it to the finals and went to the ceremony at the Dorchester Hotel in London. We didn’t win but the whole experience

We will definitely be updating our website this year, we feel the best way to engage the public is via social networking sites, regularly sharing information on our latest stock and seasonal promotions a company name, logo, how and where to buy stock to interviewing staff, shop furnishings, opening hours – all to be ready and raring to go in time for the important lead up to Christmas.

Our first port of call was signing up to the industry’s trade magazines, then we attended our first Harrogate gift fair – we were like kids in a sweet shop with so many different and exciting products to choose from.

We went with ranges that we were attracted to, that we’d like to buy or receive ourselves such as Christmas decorations, home interiors, including pot-pourri, candles and traditional teddy bears, musical boxes, lace, dried flowers and pine furniture. Victoriana was very en-vogue at the time! But we bought very few greetings cards, not many Christmas card packs or individual ranges, no advent

was great, being recognised after 24 years and still maintaining a brilliant standard of quality retailing and customer service is a wonderful achievement.

What are your goals and aspirations now?

They’re the same now as they’ve always been. Great customer service is paramount and continuing to purchase quality and affordable products. However, we didn’t have the fabulous world of the internet 25 years ago. Although we will definitely be updating our website this year, we feel the best way to engage the public is via social networking sites, regularly sharing information on our latest stock and seasonal promotions, as well as sharing community information and promoting other businesses in Flitwick. It’s a great way to keep

Box Of Delights looking fresh and innovative to potential new customers and keep our regulars up to date.

What’s the most exciting part of your job?

Seeing our customers’ excited faces when we have new stock arriving and then hearing them say “I love your shop”, “We always know we can get the perfect gift and card in here, don’t need to go anywhere else” – that’s fabulous.

How broad is your price range for gifts?

We sell a very broad price range of gifts anything from bath bombs at £2.50 to soft furnishings, china, retro telephones, clocks, prints and small pieces of furniture up to £200-£300.

What brands of gifts and cards do Box Of Delights sell and which sell well?

We sell a varied range of gifts and home fragrance, among our best-selling brands are Junction 18, Wax Lyrical, Powder, Lily-Flame, East Of India, Joma Jewellery, Pip Studios, Container Group Buying, Lolita, Parlane, La De Da Living, Jellycat, Little Dog Laughed, Shruti, Choc On Choc, Bomb Cosmetics, Nougat, Stoneglow, Gisella Graham, Heaven Sends, Art Marketing, Paperbacks, One Button, Hem And Edge, Pilgrim, Estella Bartlett and Hulquist Jewellery, Kitted Out and Penny Kennedy, Wild & Wolf, Melt Candles, Scandi Chic, Bain Patisserie, Ragtales, Terramundi, Disaster Designs, Coach House and Really Good to name but a few.

We have a great selection of greetings cards. Belly Button Designs, Five Dollar Shake, Wendy Jones Blackett, Janie Wilson, Stop The Clocks, Think Of Me, Caroline Gardner, Talking Pictures, Tracey Russell, Blue Eyed Sun, The Art File, Pigment Productions, Paperlink, Woodmansterne, Bluebell 33, Coulson & Macleod, Susan O’Hanlon, White Cotton Cards, Ling Designs, Pulp, CardMix, Rachel Ellen and Paper Salad are our best sellers.

Who does the buying at Box Of Delights?

Both of us enjoy sourcing and

buying new product at trade shows, but I normally do repeat orders by appointment with agents and representatives who regularly introduce us to new product range launches too.

What do you think makes a good buyer for an independent gifts and greetings store?

I think they must listen to their customers’ needs, keep bestselling ranges well stocked whiled introducing new and exciting seasonal on-trend products throughout the year. Always maintain a good relationship with your agents, reps and suppliers and go to trade shows – if you don’t, you could easily miss out on the next big thing.

How do you choose which products to stock?

We choose according to current trends, customer demand, best sellers, quality, value for money, individuality or if we feel the wow factor from a new innovative product, we usually know our customers will love it too.

Do you attend any of the trade shows for greetings and gifts, if so, do you feel they are important and which do you like?

Yes we try to go to as many as possible, although there seem to be so many now. It’s so very important to visit as there’s always something new to see. We like Top Drawer, Pulse, PG Live and Harrogate Home & Gift, but I would say both Spring Fair and Autumn Fair are essential.

Trends currently emerging are the statement light-up symbols and letters that are wall hanging or freestanding, also retro glass tankards have been great sellers statement light-up symbols and letters that are wall hanging or freestanding, also retro glass tankards have been great sellers. Austrian Crystal suede bracelets have been irresistible for most of our ladies, so many colours to choose from, they buy one as a gift then another two for themselves.

Over the last 25 years trends have changed massively. When we first opened the phenomenon was the Andrew Brownsword Forever Friends bear with a wide range of greetings cards drawn by Deborah Jones, gifts and stationery, and it very much made us the store we have today. This introduced us to the world of the collector and encouraged new and old customers, collectors and all ages into

the store. Then followed Peter Fagin’s Colourbox, Steiff and Deans Bears then the worldwide Beanie Baby craze took hold. For the last 12 years we’ve had Willow Tree sentiment figurines from Enesco.

As minimalism became fashionable it changed the way customers buy gifts, although a very strong vintage theme and shabby chic has been prominent for quite a few years.

Customers now seem to purchase much more frivolous and design-led items and individual gifts, homeware trends and jewellery for themselves.

We have to be on the button continually sourcing new and fabulous products that are ever evolving ahead of the High Street and local competitors.

What are customers buying at the moment – is there anything that stands out as a bestseller?

Customers are still regularly buying jewellery, candles, bespoke cards, mugs, coasters and notebooks, bone china, hearts and sentiments. Statement light-up letters and symbols are bang on trend at the moment, just can’t get enough of them though.

What are the emerging trends, and how have trends changed over the past year as well as over the 25 years the shop has been open?

Trends currently emerging are the gifts today 105

Brand Licensing 2015

Brand Licensing 2015 is bigger than ever...

This year’s Brand Licensing Europe, sponsored by LIMA, is set to be the biggest yet in its 17 year history when it returns to London’s Olympia from the 13th -15th October.

O

ver 2,500 brands, characters and images will be on show from over 300 exhibitors; with 70 of these new for 2015.

Once again, the show will be zoned into the following areas: • Art, Design & Image • Brands & Lifestyle • Character & Entertainment New exhibitors in the Art, Design & Image zone include: Alex Underdown Art, Dupenny and Hello Munki Ltd. Elsewhere, in the Brands & Lifestyle zone, the show welcomes VW, Pepsi, The Shakespeare Birthplace Trust, PGA TOUR, Lee Stafford and Vimto International, and NOW That’s What I Call Music, Leoni S.P.A, Topps Europe and RaNT! in the Character & Entertainment zone, among others.

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The Brands & Lifestyle Theatre will offer free sessions tailored specifically to the business of licensing brands.

Visitors will hear expert guidance on licensing within the world of sport, lifestyle, fashion and heritage brands

Visitors can attend educational expert panel sessions from SPLiCE in the Licensing Academy on Direct to Retail, Social Accountability and Anti-Counterfeiting More education There are more sessions than ever before spread across the show’s two education theatres. In the Licensing Academy will be four new panels, and three more in the Brands & Lifestyle Theatre.

The Licensing Academy will feature a packed programme of sessions offering industry insights. These include an introduction to the show, facts and figures from knowledge partners and keynotes from industry trail blazers, with past speakers from Mojang, Rovio, Fifa and Lucas Licensing.

The Brands & Lifestyle Theatre will offer free sessions tailored specifically to the business of licensing brands.

Visitors will hear expert guidance on licensing within the world of sport, lifestyle, fashion and heritage brands.

Run in partnership with Brand Jam, the sessions will present powerful case studies alongside Brand Jam’s interpretation of how and why they are so successful.

New – SPLiCE educational afternoons A new feature for this year, visitors can attend educational expert panel sessions from SPLiCE in the Licensing Academy on Direct to Retail, Social Accountability and Anti-Counterfeiting. Brands taking part include Chupa Chups, Sainsbury’s, Insight Licensing Services, United Nations Office of Drugs and Crime, World Customs Organization, World Trademark Review and 24IP.

New - The BLE Blog The BLE Blog (www.thebleblog.com) has been launched to offer insight and comment on the show and the European licensing industry from the team and its partners. Posts include tips on getting the most from the show, interviews with industry veterans to the pitfalls to avoid when negotiating a licensing deal. Event Director, Darren Brechin, explains “We hope it will be

really useful for visitors and exhibitors alike, and get people thinking about what they want from this year’s event.”

License This!

Now in its sixth year, the License This!

Competition offers those with brand new creative concepts the opportunity to break into the global licensing industry.

The final will take place on Thursday 15th October in front of a packed audience, with finalists vying for the chance to win a prize worth over £6,000, including a stand at Brand Licensing Europe 2016.

The property owners of last year’s winner RaNT!, a fun and irreverent character who has something to say about the bits of modern life that really get on our nerves, have been busy developing the characters in the portfolio to bring back to this year’s show.

Charity focus Once again BLE is supporting a number of charitable causes; Battersea Dogs & Cats Home will once again provide the official show mascot, Squirt the Staffie, who will be available for photo calls on the Battersea stand. BLE also supports the industry run charity the Light Fund, sponsoring its Treasure Hunt earlier this summer. And for the first time this year, BLE is delighted to extend its support to Help for Heroes, the charitable organisation which delivers a national network of support for our wounded military personnel and their families.

To register for free entry or to find further information please visit www. brandlicensing.eu or follow them on Twitter using @bleurope for the latest news and updates.

When: 13th-15th October Where: Olympia, London Register: www.brandlicensing.eu

Read the BLE Blog for insights into the show at www.thebleblog.com.

DID YOU KNOW? • In 2014 the global licensing industry was worth approximately $241.5 billion in retail sales.* • Europe now represents 25% of the licensing market.

• Over 7,000 people attended BLE 2014 from 71 different countries.

• BLE plays host to Europe’s largest character parade.

• BLE show sponsor LIMA (Licensing Industry Merchandisers’ Association) celebrated its 30th anniversary this summer. *LIMA Annual Global Licensing Survey gifts today 107

Home & Gift

19th – 22nd July 2015

Home & Gift Harrogate screamed success Again Home & Gift proved to be one of the favourite buying festivals for retailers and this year show organisers, Clarion, also debuted its exciting new look and features to the retail industry.

W

hat made this year so popular? Well again the strength of Home & Gift was deemed to be a huge success with both retailers and exhibitors at this year’s show which took place from 19-22 July, in Harrogate.

Thousands of irresistible products were launched and design-led gifts revealed over the four-day show to a fantastic reception from buyers who were keen to discover new season lines for the key buying autumn/winter sales period and beyond.

Over 800 companies exhibited this year at Home & Gift with exhibitors reporting outstanding business being done across the four day show. Gaeltag MD Frank Emmel reflects and told Gifts Today: “Home & Gift Harrogate this year proved a great launch pad for our latest initiatives across pieces from Lolita to CowParade and Tindra candle bags.

We always showcase our Christmas lines at the show and it really proved its worth again as a springboard into the peak season - particularly for reaching independent gift retailers.”

Heather Robinson, UK Sales Team Leader, Wild & Wolf added, “Last day orders have increased year on year. It’s an all-round good show with a chance to re-ignite old contacts. Home & Gift is a must exhibit event and great for launching new product lines.”

With a new show layout, Hall Q being perhaps the largest change coupled with the new Design Point 5, which made a bright home for many greetings stands – both of which were easy to get access to via the new walkway 108 gifts today

connecting the show halls to the marquees.

Xystos, for example, was one company who occupied a new stand space within Hall Q. Tom Sykes, general manager of Xystos, said: “Xystos enjoyed its best-ever Home & Gift, almost doubling the business written last year.

“We could not have been better supported by Clarion Events. Footfall was much higher in Hall Q than at the Cairn Hotel, where we had been for many years, and the quality of buyer excellent. We are delighted that our new candle products and Cello drinking jars and milk bottles were so well received.”

Joe Davies’ new location at Harrogate in Hall Q also really paid off for them this year. Joe Davies made the move after 25 years at the Cairn Hotel to the Harrogate Exhibition Hall and indications are that they had more visitors to their stand than ever before. Steve Davies, Managing Director says “There has been much anticipation over the move to Hall Q and it’s really paid off. It’s a great atmosphere in the hall and good to see so many retailers buying early for the Christmas rush. The stand was incredibly busy and the move certainly helped to meet new customers than ever before. For Joe Davies it was a great show and a great time.”

Of course, it wasn’t just Hall Q that appeared buoyant. Exhibitors in other halls also praised the show this year.

David Gee, The Music Gifts Company and Element informed us: “This show was very special for us, as we had a double celebration - our 20th birthday and the launch of our new men’s range

- ELEMENT. As such, the show proved to be extremely successful. In fact it was the best Home & Gift for over 10 years. There was a great amount of interest as well as record number of orders. Harrogate seems to attract more traditional gift shops than other shows. It was just a shame that the weather slightly dampened the usual Harrogate atmosphere. Let’s hope for better weather next year.”

David is right. Yes we did experience rain this year, but that certainly didn’t dampen the spirits of both visitors

general atmosphere at the show was as sunny and vibrant as ever. We have the pleasure of knowing many of the other wonderful exhibitors and it was inspiring to see so many of them doing well.

Overall, the great organisation, beautiful stands and excellent selection of traders made for an exciting show and for many happy customers. We look forward to coming back again next year.”

Mary Overmeer, Puckator Ltd informed Gifts Today that for them, having made the decision to return to Home & Gift, it proved successful in

Over 800 companies exhibited this year at Home & Gift with exhibitors reporting outstanding business being done across the four day show and exhibitors. Paulina Dabrowska, Operations Director, RJB Stone commented. “We are delighted with the fantastic results we have seen from Home & Gift 2015. We are very pleased with our sales figures from the show and are taking them as a sign that Home and Gift continues to be a great investment for wholesalers. It was wonderful to see so many familiar faces on the stand - we love to catch up with our existing customers and many of them told us that Home & Gift is their favourite show to visit every year.

“We were also very fortunate to make many wonderful new contacts and we look forward to enjoying a successful relationship with our new customers.

Despite the occasional rainy spell, the

their new chosen location.

“We were really excited to exhibit at Harrogate for the first time in three years and the first time ever in Design Point 1; a hall that better reflects the nature of our mostly in-house designed products. We found the show to be pretty successful, especially in terms of opening new accounts and developing potential new business. We have already re-booked the same location at the 2016 show and we look forward to seeing our customers then.”

Visitors also enthused about the delights of attending this year. Jane and Mark Catherall, Greetings of Ellesmere commented, “We visited Harrogate Home & Gift for three days again this year, and would like to say what an

absolute pleasure. From beginning to end, it was perfect. We found it to be very beneficial for our business but also extremely friendly and a really lovely few days spent away from our shop.

We have returned home having placed quite a few orders with new suppliers for cards and jewellery.”

Aly and Tom MacPhail, Starlings, Orkney commented: “We’ve been coming to Home & Gift all the way from Orkney for 25 years, and everything from the show layout to the daily newspaper and the high quality of exhibitors just gets better – well done to the organisers. We came for two days,

Fandango, Sophia & Matt, Thornback and Peel and many more, who showcased their launches and gift-led products to a wide array of buyers from independents to larger retailers such as Fenwick, Bentalls, Hamleys, Barkers, Next, Laura Ashley, Oliver Bonas, Fortnum & Mason, and Graham & Green.

The new Design Point Debut & Spotlight, where buyers could spot fresh, new design talent and source innovative products, were extremely well received by retailers. Anne Boyd, Retail Operations Manager/Buyer from Sealbhanach Ltd, mentioned, “I

“We are delighted with the fantastic results we have seen from Home & Gift 2015. We are very pleased with our sales

a packed audience, an inspirational and educational programme that took place on the second day of the show.

He commented, “An event designed for retailers in the north of England has been long overdue, H&G selected a range of speakers and topics that in my opinion were second to none, that gave business owners and sales & marketing manager’s great advice and simple takeaways to apply to their business. I look forward to speaking to them next year!”

Cleere Scamell, Show Director for Home & Gift said, “We are absolutely delighted with the tremendous response that Home & Gift has received from the industry this year. As with any great product, it’s important for events to keep fresh and up-to-date, and this year we added plenty of new features to make sure retailers had an even more productive and enjoyable time.”

He added, “We have made some positive changes to the layout of the

show and we are already planning ways to ensure our visitors get even more great ideas from every part of this uniquely enjoyable show. I look forward to revealing our exciting new plans shortly for the 56th edition.”

Home & Gift is famous for mixing business with pleasure successfully, and it would not have been the same without its famous networking events. Hundreds of retailers and exhibitors joined for a glass of Pimm’s at the iconic Sunday Sundowners, and many of the other social events that took place.

Here’s to us all having a Happy Harrogate again in 2016.

Home & Gift 2016 17th – 20th July 2016 Web: www.homeandgift.co.uk

figures from the show and are taking them as a sign that Home & Gift continues to be a great investment for wholesalers” Paulina Dabrowska, Operations Director, RJB Stone but definitely should have stayed for at least three!”

New companies were revealed at Home & Gift for the first time including Boyz Toy, Branche d’Olive, BrownTrout Publishers, Captain Fawcett, Chive Inc., David Fischhoff, Fairmont & Main, Gone Crabbing, Hallmark Cards, Jasmine Living, Lampe Berger, Meri Meri, Sabichi Homewares , Scaramouche &

had a wonderful time at the show in Harrogate. I found 21 new companies and I placed just over 30 orders. Some are for pre-Christmas delivery and some are for spring next year, so it was a very successful trip.”

Of course, new this year was also the Great Northern Retail Summit.

Keynote speaker Warren Knight delivered his retail technology talk to gifts today 109

New Products

Feminine style

Drawing inspiration from current fragrance trends, Ashleigh & Burwood presents three enticing new scents which flirt with opposing propensities for deep, dark, alluring notes and pure, fresh, white florals. An opulent Oriental Floral accord, Jasmine & Damson releases a sensual union of floral and woody notes. With a profusion of sweet damson, this is a truly captivating symphony. Amber & Tonka bean is a balanced blend heated by warming amber and smoky Tonka bean, a fragrance charged with a sense of mystery. Meanwhile, Christmas calls for nostalgic heart-warming notes with gourmand influence in the form of festive scent, Christmas Time.

Dew, the essential everyday sterling silver collection from the team at Kit Heath.

Dew is brimming with great gifts or that special treat for her, whatever the occasion.

The Dew customer has a pretty feminine style; with a gorgeous new collection of delicate floral pieces using freshwater pearls and combinations of rose and yellow gold, Dew has a winning collection coming for autumn.

Tel: 01932 267060

Tel: 01271 329123

Email: info@ashleigh-burwood.co.uk

Email: sales@kitheath.com

Web: www.ashleigh-burwood-trade.co.uk

Web: www.kitheathretailer.com

Flirty with Ashleigh & Burwood

Essential items from Parks Parks manufacturers of natural wax candles fragranced with the highest quality perfume containing essential oils have introduced some fabulous gift sets. Each set contains ten candles in 5cl tot glasses all packaged in a luxury gift box. There are seven assorted sets available, comprised of the most popular fragrances selected from their Aromatherapy, Nature’s Own, Moods, Parks Exclusive, Fine Fragrance and Black Magic ranges. Especially created for the more discerning 110 gifts today

and sophisticated, these are wonderful gifts to give and receive or even to indulge oneself with a pampering experience.

Tel: 0208 8830 6300 Email: info@parkscandles.com Web: www.parkscandles.com

Autumn Fair: 6th-9th September 2015 Hall 5 Stand E1

www.straitstrading.com Tel: 01254 300260

Email: sales@straitstrading.com

New Products Time for Tea

Bringing back the traditional cup and saucer, Lesser & Pavey, renowned for quality chinaware, introduces new ranges of cups and saucers in wonderful floral pattern and of the highest quality.

The William Kilburn Trellis design is but one design, with neutral base colour and floral that stands out. The ranges also come in blue and black base colours. Each item is beautifully gift boxed to make the perfect gift.

The range includes coasters, small tray, travel mug, jugs, medium size tray and placemats.

Tel: 01322 279225 Web: www.leonardo.co.uk

Dazzling new collection

Candles make fantastic, inexpensive gifts the entire year round and the latest new crystal mirror plates, ornate silver and stylish cut glass candle sticks from Premier Decorations are a must for anyone wanting to bring a dazzle of light to a special occasion.

Combined with Premier’s crystal scatter stones and silver edged lace ribbon, these beautiful candle holders make a stunning centre piece at weddings and celebrations as well as providing an eyecatching focal point to any room.

Add Premier’s LED dancing flame candles, which are realistic and completely safe for those who want sparkle without real flames, and retailers have a winning combination guaranteed to entice the most discerning customer.

Tel: 020 8624 5555 Email: sales@premierdec.com

Personalised Around the World Adventure Story

Signature Gifts’ newest release in their personalised children’s book range takes your child on an amazing round- the-world trip. They are chosen by the eccentric Phileas Fox to join him on his adventure, making stop-offs in Europe, Egypt, India, China, Japan, Australia and the USA. Starting off in a balloon, travel modes include ship, boats, plane, a magic carpet and a dragon. The child’s name appears throughout the rhyming text as he or she samples the delights and landmarks of the countries visited. Beautifully illustrated with colourful characters, your child’s name is included within the pictures on every page. This fun-packed adventure is a great introduction to the world for every youngster. Including any name and your message, this book is printed in full colour and available in either a hard or soft cover. Retail price starts at £9.99.

Web: www.signature-gifts.co.uk

Get wrapped up

Brand new from Puckator’s design team is their fantastic collection of gift wrap, available in single sheets with a tag included. New designs include donuts, rainbow unicorn, flamingos, dinosaurs, pugs, woodland friends, cute foxes and many more. They also have a great selection of Christmas gift wrap for the festive season. Puckator really do have this all wrapped up.

Tel: 0800 011 6969 Email: customerservices@puckator.co.uk Web: www.puckator.co.uk 112 gifts today

The Walking Stick Specialists Traditional and contemporary walking sticks, seat seats and umbrellas for ladies and gentlemen

Autumn Fair: Hall 4, Stand N03

Area Sales Agent Northern Home Counties An exciting sales agent opportunity will become available from January 2016. Straits Trading Company Ltd and Village Candle UK Ltd are two well established companies in the giftware, home furnishings and home fragrance sectors. Both companies are looking for a sales professional who has a passion and expertise in working with these product categories.

The successful candidate will be offered an existing customer base to work with whilst actively seeking and developing new business opportunities and achieving sales targets. Full head office support will be offered to assist in this role including, but not limited to, Ipad sales presenter, attendance at major trade exhibitions, websites, biannual product brochures, samples and sales reports.

The territory includes Norfolk, Suffolk, Cambridgeshire, Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Hertfordshire, Essex, Berkshire, Oxfordshire and London (north of the river).

Please contact us for a trade catalogue: Warren House, Hinton St George, Somerset TA17 8TQ Tel +44 (0)1460 75686 www.classiccanes.co.uk Also on Facebook and Instagram.

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To register for your free entry badge and for further information please visit

scotlandstradefairs.co.uk

New Products Quintessentially British

Gaventa London have taken quintessentially British Liberty of London fabric and transformed it into a collection of pretty, floral cuff bracelets.

Nostalgic and romantic, each bracelet features a contemporary sterling silver charm together with sterling silver fittings, and a semi-precious bead adorns the extension chain. Wonderfully feminine, each bracelet is made by hand in the U.K. and is presented in a chocolate brown Gaventa London gift box. In addition to being beautifully packaged, each bracelet is supplied with a branded insert detailing their provenance, making them an individual gift infused with vintage character and fabulous value for money.

Newly released, The Liberty Collection is already proving to be very popular, with plans to add more designs for Autumn/Winter 2015. The collection is available to purchase now from www.gaventa.london or via your local Gaventa London Sales Agent.

Tel: 01707 654820 Email: sales@gaventa.london Web: www.gaventa.london

Three new limited editions from Price’s

Price’s Candles are bringing three new seasonal Limited Edition jar candles to this year’s Autumn Fair.

As part of their best-selling Fresh Air range of odour eliminatores, these candles will be sure to light up any home this Christmas with bursts of fruit and spiced fragrances in the form of mandarin & ginger, vanilla & cinnamon, and apple & cinnamon.

These candles work in the same way as the rest of the range, employing exclusive-to-Price’s Odourfoyl technology which helps neutralise unwanted odours leaving your home smelling clean and fresh throughout the year.

Tel: 01234 264500 Email: sales@prices-candles. co.uk Web: www.prices-candles. co.uk

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Autumn

Olympia, London 13–15 September 2015

THE UK’S LEADING DESIGN-LED GIFT & FASHION ACCESSORIES EVENT

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