Fall 2019

FALL 2019

THE DEFINITIVE RESOURCE FOR INDEPENDENT LIFESTYLE RETAILERS

instoremagazine.ca

COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS LIFESTYLE DISPLAYS 101 FASHION FINDS

Spring

FORWARD

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Meow

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TAK TAKE BACK E BAC K TAKE BACK YOUR YOU R YOUR THRONE! THR ONE! THRONE!

Distributed inCanada Canada by TheTateGroup (416) 504-8047 info@thetategrou Distribute d in Canada byby TheTateG Distributed in TheTateGroup (416)504-8047 504-8047 info@thetategroup.com roup (416) info@the tategroup.com

contents

inStore VOL. 06/NO. 01

THIS ISSUE

26

inStock DEPARTMENTS

8 Spring Fresh Fresh fragrances and personal care

20

10 Flower Power Pretty petals to brighten up spring displays 12 Canadian Eh? Cute and quirky souvenirs and gifts 14 Secret Garden Gardening-themed merchandise FEATURES

31 Green Goods A plethora of fashionable eco-friendly finds

43 In Bloom

A selection of products for a stunning spring entertaining display

49 Fashion Finds Sow the seeds of success with fun and fashionable accessories and jewellery

inStyle

inSight

FEATURES

DEPARTMENTS

39 Home Décor Trends

6 Hello!

Celebrating Our 6th Year

Two trends for fresh spring interiors

Fall 2019

20 Shop Profile A love of travel inspires the choices at Black Rooster Decor, a chic Toronto home décor store 55 Countdown to Christmas Retail expert and business coach Barbara Crowhurst shares ways to maximize sales during the holiday season

inForm DEPARTMENTS

16 News & Notes New lines, launches, industry goings-on and upcoming trade shows 56 CanGift Connects The evolution of retail FEATURES

26 Life Styled

How to communicate a story, convey a trend and give your store energy through lifestyle displays

By Leslie Groves

34 ‘Tis the Season to be Successful

The second part in our series on how to get your store retail-ready for the holiday season

By Claire Sykes

www.instoremagazine.ca

inStore. Fall 2019

3

RETAILERS

inSpire. inForm

THE DEFINITIVE RESOURCE FOR INDEPENDENT LIFESTYLE RETAILERS

Editor & Publisher Erica Kirkland ekirkland@instoremagazine.ca Design & Layout Gerry Wiebe Advertising & Production Coodinator Tina Nicholl Contributing Editors Barbara Crowhurst, Leslie Groves Advertising Inquiries ekirkland@instoremagazine.ca 905-690-0492

Let 2019 be your

Retail Repositioning Year.

Merging an on-line store with your bricks and mortar.

Embracing technology to drive retail analytics.

Marketing effectively using the right platforms.

Increasing sales.Increasing foot traffic.

Creating a retail service culture that can sell.

Invest in the Future of your Business, Hire The Services of Retail Makeover!

Retail Business Coaching & Training Retail Staff Sales Training Retail Store Design Retail Website Creation & Implementation We will help you reach your full potential . Guaranteed!

For a free evaluation of your Retail business needs in 2019 contact:

Retail Makeover

Barbara j Crowhurst / CEO Retail Makeover Office Line: 905.686.8898 Mobile Line: 416.522.8169 Email: retailmakeoverca@gmail.com

4

RetailMakeover_W19.indd 1

inStore. Fall 2019

2018-12-14 12:36 PM

Editorial Submissions editorial@instoremagazine.ca Mailing Address: 103 Niska Drive Waterdown, ON L8B 0M8 Contributors Barbara Crowhurst, Castlerock Studios, Will Fournier, Leslie Groves, Andrea Reynolds, Claire Sykes InStore Magazine™ is published four times a year for independent retailers in Canada selling giftware, home décor, fashion accessories and lifestyle items.

The magazine is mailed to 12,000 stores including gift, home decor, hardware, pharmacy and florist. © 2019 InStore Magazine™. The contents of this publication are the property of InStore Magazine.

Reproduction or use of the contents in whole or in part, for any reason, is strictly prohibited without the written consent of the copyright owner. The publisher is not responsible for product claims made by the companies mentioned herein.

Printed in Canada Publication mail #40841587. Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: InStore Magazine™, 103 Niska Drive, Waterdown ON L8B 0M8.

Email: editorial@instoremagazine.ca

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Who said slippers had to be boring? Not us!

Practical, fashionable and always on trend! For over a decade, snoozies!® has offered hundreds of styles and collections that fly out the door!

Available for women, men, kids, toddlers and baby.

OUR CANADA SALES AGENCY: CROSS BORDER SALES

906-417-6332

USA CORPORATE OFFICE

252-650-7000 ext 215

Copyright 2008-2019 | snoozies!® is a registered trademark of Buyer’s Direct , Inc. | US Patent US D 598,1835 | Buyer’s Direct, Inc. | P.O. Box 818, Elm City, NC 27822 | info@snoozies.com

my fav...

inSight Hello

Celebrating Our 6th Year This issue marks the beginning of our sixth year in business and I wanted to use this space to publicly thank the companies which have supported us from the very beginning by placing an ad in the inaugural issue and consistently supporting us ever since: Abbott, Amscan, Axicon World Imports, Bayshore Imports, Candym Enterprises and Canfloyd, the Canadian Gift Association, Country Home Candle, Dublin Design, Ear Curls, Indaba, Old Country Design, The Tate Group, Springwater Woodcraft and Warm Buddy. Without these suppliers believing in the need for a publication to serve Canada’s vibrant independent gift, lifestyle and home décor market, InStore would never have gotten off the ground, and without their continued, unwavering support over the past five years we couldn’t have kept going and grown into the publication we are today – the preeminent resource for independent lifestyle retailers.

Thank you to our readers who wholeheartedly embraced InStore from the get-go and expressed to vendors the importance of supporting a Canadian publication for Canadian retailers.

Thank you to our collaborators who work with me to bring you such fantastic content. Merchandiser and stylist extraordinaire Leslie Groves, photographer Will Fournier, our amazing art director Gerry Wiebe and our tireless inhouse retail business consultant Barbara Crowhurst have all worked with me and contributed content to each and every of our 21 issues.

Here’s to five more fabulous years and many more to come after that.

The number of stylish items we received for our feature on eco-friendly products (see page 31) was astounding and testament to the fact that the green movement is truly moving into the mainstream. In years past, when we put the call out for vendors to send us their latest and greatest in this category, we’d receive a handful of items. Now, all the major vendors have come to market with fashionable and function items which help consumers reduce their impact on the environment!

Erica Kirkland Publisher & Editor

in this issue With a focus on spring, this issue delivers a snapshot of what we envision will be the trends – and hottest products – for the season.

From the best items for entertaining (page 43) and the sleekest 6

inStore. Fall 2019

fashion accessories (page 49) to two home décor styles we adore (page 39).

We’ve also got all the

goods on the latest category trends. Just as eco-friendly products are gaining momentum (see story above), items that celebrate our Canadian culture are abounding. In this issue we

selected a handful of our favourite items for an appropriately named Canadian Eh? story (page 12).

inSpire. inForm. inStore.

shopganz.com â„¢

800.263.2311

Spring Fresh

inStock What We’re Loving

1

Usher in spring with a fresh offering of personal care products

2

1/ Toiletry bag, $25 retail, Fire the Imagination, 888-780-0864, www.firetheimagination.ca 2/ Mini hand cream and perfume in keepsake tin, $16 retail, Barefoot Venus, 888-490-1756, www.barefootvenus.com

3

3/ Waffle towel, $39 retail, Pokoloko, 844-476-5656, www.pokoloko.com 4/ Give It Five toilet spray, $19.99 retail, Finesse Home, 866-787-5494, www.finessehome.com 5/ Aroma diffuser set, $21.99 retail, Nostalgia Import, 800-785-7855, www.nostalgia-import.com 6/ Plant-based fumigation sprays, $19.99, Walton Wood Farm, 844-834-3276, www.waltonwoodfarm.com

6 4 5

MAD CAN E IN ADA !

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inStore. Fall 2019

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SAVE THE DATE

January 26-30, 2020 Exclusively at the Toronto Congress Centre

To register visit togifthomemarket.ca @cangift

Flower Power

inStock What We’re Loving

A smattering of pretty petals to brighten up spring displays

2

1/ Very Bradley water bottle from Lifeguard Press, $41 retail, through Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca

1

2/ Mug set, $47 retail, McIntosh Trading, 888-977-1370, www.mcintoshtrading.com 3/ Kate Spade thermal mug from Lifeguard Press, $26 retail, through Design Home Gift & Paper, 800663-9950, www.designhome.ca

3

4/ Fabric journal from Rifle Paper Company, $28 retail, through Paper E. Clips, 800-660-7068, www.papereclips.com 5/ Reusable bamboo travel mug, $25 retail, Paper E. Clips, 800-660-7068, www.papereclips.com

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5

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inStore. Fall 2019

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February 23-26, 2020 Edmonton EXPO Centre

SAVE THE DATE

To register visit abgifthomemarket.ca

@cangift

Canadian Eh?

inStock What We’re Loving 2

Show your love for country with cute and quirky souvenirs and gifts

1

1/ Printed stickers from Stickers Northwest, from $4 retail, through David Youngson & Associates, 800-370-4857, www.dyacompany.com 2/ Name-drop mug, $19.99 retail, Edenborough, 800-265-6398, www.edenborough.com

4

3

3/ Goblet with camp motif, $10 retail, Abbott, 800-263-2955, www.abbottcollection.com 4/ Maple-leaf shaped dish, $20 retail, Now Designs, 888-632-6422, www.danicaimports.com 5/ Canadian socks from Hot Sox, $12 retail, through Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca

5 6

6/ Poutine-shaped ornament, $12.99 retail, Main and Local, 855-501-5082, www.mainandlocal.com 7/ Organic cotton baby t-shirt, $19.99 retail, Kidcentral Supply, 877-218-0395, www.kidcentral.ca 8/ Cushion, $34.99 to $56.99 retail, Hotline Home Goods & Accessories, 519-754-1799, www.hotlineapparel.ca

7

8

MAD CAN E IN ADA !

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inStore. Fall 2019

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ETERNITY CRYSTAL

Wishing Thread

A Division of Norcard Enterprises Ltd.

the Brings joy and awakening of spirit to one’s life.

A messenger for change, the Hummingbird encourages natural transformations in life.

inStock What We’re Loving

2

1

Secret Garden

Gardening-themed merchandise is sure to sell in spring

1/ Large planter, $13 retail, Abbott, 800-263-2955, www.abbottcollection.com

TREND ALERT

Pot holders with feet

3

2/ Frida ceramic vase, $14.99 retail, Nostalgia Import, 800-785-7855, www.nostalgia-import.com 3/ Planter from Tag, $27 retail, through Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca 4/ Ceramic cat vase, $23.99 retail, Nostalgia Import, 800-785-7855, www.nostalgia-import.com

4

5/ Large planter, $13 retail, Abbott, 800-263-2955, www.abbottcollection.com

6/ Garden scissor set from Kikkerland, $19 retail, through David Youngson & Associates, 800-370-4857, www.dyacompany.com

5

7/ Antiqued metal pot, $90 retail, Canfloyd, 800-263-3551, www.canfloyd.com

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6

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inStore. Fall 2019

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The best way to...

ASTRA • Atlanta • Boston • Dallas • Los Angeles • Las Vegas • Seattle • Denver • Toronto • Columbus • Minneapolis

inForm

Inside Track

News & Notes

News & Notes THE GOODS

Petit Boudoir Dishes

NEWS IN BRIEF

Solmate Partners with Artz Axentz In an effort to expand its presence in the Canadian market, Solmate Socks has partnered with Artz Axentz. The new partnership will result in reduced shipping costs, faster service (orders will ship within one to two business days) and consistent Canadian pricing. The agreement took effect on October 1. 416-650-0440, www.solmatecanada.com

Canadian artist Alison Lynch has launched a new line of small dishes in a collection called Petit Boudoir. The little dishes are ideal for placing rings, earrings and bracelets or simply as a decorative element. Each dish is handmade using a self-hardening clay which doesn’t require kiln firing. For the marble dishes, the colour is kneaded into the clay before the shape is formed.

Once the dish has cured and hardened, it’s sealed with a varnish to give it a glazed effect. $17 retail each. 416-720-6069, www.alilynchdesigns.com

Loose Leaf Tea Gift Pouches New from Tealish are these loose-leaf tea gift pouches. Each pouch contains 35 grams of premium tea in a convenient grab-and-go pouch. Shown here are teas from the company’s dessert line. $9.95 retail each. www.tealish.com

Design Home Now Representing Creative Brands

Lightweight Travel Slippers Snoozies is offering four new collections of their Skinnies slippers – lightweight foot coverings sold with a matching travel pouch. Small enough to slip into any handbag and perfect for vacationing, the thin Sherpa-lined slippers boast nonskid soles and are machine washable.

From $20 retail. 252-650-7000, www.snoozies.com

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inStore. Fall 2019

Effective October 15, Design Home Gift & Paper became the new national sales representatives for Creative Brands and its six divisions: Santa Barbara Design Studio, 47th & Main, Slant Collections, Stephan Baby, Heartfelt and Faithworks.

“We are excited about our partnership with Design Home,” said Brian Schroeder, vice-president of sales and marketing for Creative Brands. “Our new relationship will bring us a stronger presence in Canada with Design Home’s strength in home décor, two locations at the Toronto Gift & Home Market, expedited order turnaround and the ability to provide customers with aggressive incentives – it’s such a great fit.” 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca

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THE GOODS Ela Handbags Ela Handbags has launched its new planetconscious vegan collection to gift retailers through David Youngson & Associates. The Canadian handbag and accessories brand was co-founded in 2010 by husband and wife team Ela and Martin Aldorsson. From the beginning the brand has been focused on the idea of humble luxury where refined and sophisticated silhouettes highlight, rather than upstage, the wearer. From subtle asymmetry to luxe hardware and materials, every design element is infused with a high level of craftsmanship and a signature aesthetic.

While the designs were once crafted from leather, Ela Handbags are now made from animal-safe products, namely polyurethane, which is less harmful for the environment than PVC. By Spring 2020, the brand is predicting all its bags will be lined with recycled plastic bottles.

The brand was the recipient of the CAFA 2018 Canadian Accessory Designer of the year award and has gained a celebrity fan base that incudes Gwyneth Paltrow, Meghan Markle and Sophie Grégoire Trudeau. www.elahandbags.com

Souvenirs That Don’t Suck Main and Local is a bold new brand of souvenirs inspired by local culture and history. The Canadian-based brand offers over 200 novelty gifts in a variety of collections and themes.

The funky, contemporary products are designed to be fun conversation starters. Bestsellers include various novelty mugs such as the Curling Rock mug shown here along with Justin Trudeau, CBC and poutine socks. Particularly delightful are the assortment of ornaments – from poutine and Montreal bagels to Toronto streetcars. 855-501-5082, www.mainandlocal.com

Fire the Imagination t: 1-888-780-0864

www.firetheimagination.ca

www.instoremagazine.ca

inStore. Fall 2019

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Show Calendar JANUARY

Christmasworld/Paperworld January 24– 28, 2020 Frankfurt, Germany www.messefrankfurt.com Mode Accessories Show January 26 – 28, 2020 Toronto, Ont. www.mode-accessories.com

By Hand January 26 – 28, 2020 Toronto, Ont. www.byhand.ca Toronto Gift & Home Market January 26 – 30, 2020 www.togifthomemarket.ca Las Vegas Market January 26 – 30, 2020 www.lasvegasmarket.com

THE GOODS RainCaper Launches in Canada

RainCaper has launched in the Canadian market with Edenborough Ltd. The U.S.-based women-owned company specialises in producing a line of water-proof, one-size-fits-all rain capes available in dozens of classic solids and prints along with fine art prints from famous artists such as Monet and Van Gogh. The capes’ gently rounded silhouette is flattering on most ladies while the hood is carefully sized to provide complete coverage. Each RainCaper is sold with a travel pouch that includes a handy snap strap to attach to a suitcase or purse. The company recently launched a line of umbrellas which will ship in late November.

The selection encompasses many of its bestselling designs and includes both folding travel umbrellas and reverse (inside-out) umbrellas. www.raincaper.com

FEBRUARY

NY Now February 1 – 5, 2020 www.nynow.com Ambiente February 7 – 11, 2020 Frankfurt, Germany ambiente.messefrankfurt.com Craft East Buyers’ Expo February 8 – 9, 2020 Halifax, N.S. www.actshow.ca Alberta Gift & Home Market February 23 – 26, 2020 Edmonton, Alta. www.abgifthomemarket.ca 18

inStore. Fall 2019

Fuzzy Slippers with 3D Ears

New fuzzy slippers from Living Royal boast 3D ears and horns. The slippers are one-size-fits most and also double as socks. The rubber grips on the bottom ensure a slip-proof experience. From $13 retail.

Living Royal is distributed in Canada through David Youngson & Associates. 800-370-4857, www.dyacompany.com

Dark and Stormy Mustard

Mrs. McGarrigle’s Fine Food’s newest mustard flavour, Dark & Stormy, is now shipping. Handmade in small batches with Bermudian rum, ginger beer and lime, the new mustard has a unique warming effect without being hot or spicy. The mustard’s Caribbean-influenced flavours make it a perfect pairing for meats traditionally used in island dishes, including chicken and pork. www.mustard.ca

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Inside Track NEWS IN BRIEF

Nearly Famous Under New Ownership Warren and Judith Shaw are pleased to announce that Aurel Lonian has purchased Nearly Famous Enterprises, the exclusive distributor and Canadian arm for Aurora World Stuffed Animals. Lonian will be actively managing the company and directing its growth going forward while Warren will remain with the company over the coming months, working with Lonian to ensure a smooth transition. Lonian brings to Nearly Famous Enterprises a broad business background and enthusiasm for the plush market. 888-918-5023, www.nearlyfamous.ca

Portmeirion Group Acquires Nambé Portmeirion Group, a leading manufacturer and distributor of homewares, has acquired Nambé, a U.S.based premium homewares business.

Nambé designs, sources, markets and retails Nambé-branded products in homewares. Founded in 1951, the company’s range includes cutlery, glassware, dinnerware, kitchenware and home décor.

Nambé’s sales are largely concentrated in the U.S. through wholesale channels, online and company retail stores.

Portmeirion Group intends to leverage the Nambé product ranges through its existing U.S. sales channels and global sales infrastructure. The company also expects to benefit from the expertise of Nambé’s contemporary design consultants.

Nambé’s key management team will continue in their roles. www.portmeirion.com

Colourful collections for Home & Garden Planters & Containers, Stakes, Figurines, Wall Art, Textiles, Servingware, & more Book now for shipping spring 2020

Correction!

In the Summer 2019 issue of InStore, the item pictured here was incorrectly identified as Walton Wood Farm’s Pets Don’t Stink product line.

The items are actually a foaming hand soap in an apothecary bottle along with a concentrated refill from Barefoot Venus (888-490-1756, www.barefootvenus.com).

InStore apologizes for any errors or confusion this mistake may have caused readers.

www.instoremagazine.ca

Christmas Tradition 1-800-561-5515 www.ct-lifestyle.com inStore. Fall 2019

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inSight Shop Profile

Black Rooster

DECOR

Owners Nina Ber-Donker (right) and husband Prince

Wanderlust A love of travel inspires the choices at this chic Toronto home dĂŠcor store | By Andrea Reynolds

20

inStore. Fall 2019

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S

tore owners Nina Ber-Donkor and her husband, Prince, find inspiration from travelling across Canada and overseas.

In fact, when they first entered retail over seven years ago, sourcing high-end furniture and décor items from around the globe provided an outlet for them to explore different styles. This spirit of discovery still guides their product selection today, providing clients with fresh merchandise and a sense of wonder in every visit.

What makes your store unique?

Nothing gets added to our store that we haven’t personally seen and can vouch for 100 percent. It’s important to me to www.instoremagazine.ca

know what each product is like instead of hearing about it from someone else.

How would you describe your store and its atmosphere?

We are located in Leslieville in Toronto.

It’s a design destination in the city. Our shop is very bright and open. The white walls and neutral concrete floors provide the perfect background to showcase our products and the beautiful artwork.

What is your background and why did you decide to get into retail in the first place?

I worked full-time in publishing for many years, but I had this dream of a design store in the back of my mind.

JUST THE STATS STORE: Black Rooster Decor LOCATION: 1075 Queen St East, Toronto, Ont. SQUARE FOOTAGE: 1300 EMPLOYEES: Four full-time TOP-SELLING LINE: Jonathan Adler WEBSITE: www.blackroosterdecor.com

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Tell us how your store got started and how has it evolved?

Seven years ago, we started Black Rooster Decor strictly online. I was still working at my publishing job. We live in Leslieville in Toronto, and when we saw the location of our first space become available, we knew it was time to open a store. I stayed on for six months, working part-time in publishing and part-time at the store until I felt ready to commit to the store full-time. Now, we’ve recently moved into a bigger space and we live in the space above.

What are the main categories of products you carry?

We carry it all! Furniture, accessories, artwork, lighting, rugs, even some outdoor accessories. My husband, Prince, oversees all the plants we sell in the store. They are really popular with our clients. They love seeing what he comes up with, and they look so perfect that people think they are fake!

To what do you attribute your success?

In the beginning, I was following a designer named Christine Dovey. I reached out to her through social media and began a kind of collaboration. She mentioned the store and used some of our products. It created trust with our brand and gave us some credentials. I liked her vibe; she liked my vibe. She put out a good word for us, and it got us started off in the right direction.

How do you promote your store and what are your most successful promotions or marketing mediums?

Pinterest is huge for us. About 90 percent of our traffic comes from there. We have around 600 new online viewers per day, so we just keep pinning the pretty pictures! It’s a great way for the customer to “be there” without being there.

What has been your most successful recent event?

Creating a new secondary store called Black Rooster Maison. This is strictly for our Canadian clients and highlights Canadian vendors and products. Nothing is imported from the U.S., so lead times are faster. We’re really proud of it!

Do you have a favourite new product line?

Personally, I love Vancouver Candle Co. It’s a beautiful newer line. It’s not too expensive and the candles smell so good. The line is made in Canada, which we love promoting, and they look great on the shelves mixed in with our décor.

Looking back, what’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned?

Online is the way to go! We wouldn’t have expanded without it, and social media presence can’t be stressed enough. It’s a great way to stay fresh and new with your clients. We started on Instagram five years ago with 3000 followers and now we have 17,000 followers.

What do you see for the future?

We are developing a luxury, curated box for gifting which will range in price from $75 to $200. And, I definitely want to travel more and continue sourcing new products and ideas.

Finally, how do you stay inspired?

Travelling is fun and inspiring. We have taken trips recently to Spain, Portugal and Morocco, and we shipped some exciting things back with us! But I also love to see what others are doing on Instagram. I follow travel and destination hotel accounts. The world is at your fingertips. It’s pretty incredible.

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MONCILLO

TM

M A D E I N C A NA DA

Pure Home Living Luxurious Home Cleaning Range

Advanced Home Cleaning Range - Environmentally Safe - Vegan Quality Plant Based Ingredients - Paraben Free - Sulphate Free - Made with Essential Oils

Call us today to discuss your Aromatherapy needs : tel: 604 885 5494

e: sales@finesseoils.com www.finesseoils.com Finesse Home - Proudly Canadian - Sechelt - BC

Styling by Leslie Groves Photography by Will Fournier

The Cat’s

Meow Your guide to a successful spring selling season

www.instoremagazine.ca

inStore. Fall 2019

25

How to communicate a story, convey a trend and give your store energy

Life

Styled

26

inStore. Fall 2019

inSpire. inForm. inStore.

Dual Purpose When your props also serve a dual purpose as a platform on which to display products, that’s a bonus! Here, we used vintage suitcases to tie together this bohemian travel theme. They work here because their retro patterns tie into the vintage styling of the plates and thermos we have for sale.

They also ground the display by providing large surface areas to display upon.

Making Connections When stores rely on merchandise alone to build a lifestyle display, it often fails to engage the consumer. To connect with your customers, in addition to products, intersperse household items (aka props) that they relate to (suitcases, magazines, chairs, etc.) into your displays.

Stand Tall Look for props which can add height to your display.

Here, we used a clothing rack to display a large quilt and some pillows. Keep your mind open to the alternative use of an item.

Styling by Leslie Groves Photography by Will Fournier

www.instoremagazine.ca

inStore. Fall 2019

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Wall Over Don’t forget to use your walls when designing a display. It’s a blank canvas upon which you can layer patterns, colours and products. Be creative and use your walls to hang not only wall art but also carpets, textiles, plates, trays and other accent pieces.

Cat pouches, water bottles, mug, plates,

Now Designs and Danica Studio, 888-632-6422, www.danicaimports.com;

Wall hanging, quilt, blanket, pillows, Indaba Trading, 800-746-3222, www.indabatrading.com

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Barefoot Venus CONSCIENTIOUSLY CRAFTED

BATH & BODY

Thanks for choosing CANADIAN MADE barefootvenuswholesale.com

www.instoremagazine.ca

inStore. Fall 2019

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BUILD YOUR BUSINESS With the most comprehensive product assortment in the west. n

See it, Touch it, Feel it

n

Business-to-Business is Still Person-to-Person

n

Discover What’s New and Hot

January 26–30, 2020

Explore at LasVegasMarket.com

FEATURED LINES (left to right, top to bottom): Treasure Garden, Eastern Accents, Urbia, Sagebrook Home, Worlds Away, Jamie Young Company, Aesthetic Movement, Abbyson, Cyan Design

Styling by Leslie Groves Photography by Will Fournier

Green

Goods

A plethora of fashionable eco-friendly finds

www.instoremagazine.ca

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1

Green 3

2

Down-to-earth eco finds in natural colour ways 1/ Bamboo fiber bowls, $38 retail for four, Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca

4

2/ Paper-fiber lunch bag with thermal foil interior, $22.99 retail, Nostalgia Import, 800-785-7855, www.nostalgia-import.com 3/ Bamboo fiber and stainless steel mug, $14.99 retail, Nostalgia Import, 800-785-7855, www.nostalgia-import.com

5

4/ Bamboo straws with sayings, $9.99 retail, Pokoloko, 844-476-5656, www.pokoloko.com 5/ Bees wax food wraps, $14.99 retail, DĂŠcor Sense Imports, 613-448-2883, www.decorsenseimports.com 6/ Natural bamboo straws from Kikkerland, $12 retail, through David Youngson & Associates, 800-370-4857, www.dyacompany.com

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7/ Produce bags with drawstrings, $20 retail, Now Designs, 888-632-6422, www.danicaimports.com

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Goods

8

10

9

A vibrant selection of eco-friendly items 8/ Washable paper lunch bag, $28 retail, Danica Studio, 888-632-6422, www.danicaimports.com

11

9/ Silicone straw cup from Silikids, $19.99 retail, Kidcentral Supply, 877-218-0395, www.kidcentral.ca 10/ Veggie bags, $9.99 retail for set of five, Nostalgia Import, 800-785-7855, www.nostalgia-import.com

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13

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11/ Fruit and veggie bags in fish-shaped pouch from Kikkerland, $19 retail, through David Youngson & Associates, 800-370-4857, www.dyacompany.com 12/ Gold straws with brush, $20 retail, Abbott, 800-263-2955, www.abbottcollection.com 13/ Lightweight shopping bag, $14 retail, Now Designs, 888-632-6422, www.danicaimports.com 14/ Market tote, $35 retail, Fire the Imagination, Fire the Imagination, 888-780-0864, www.firetheimagination.ca

www.instoremagazine.ca

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’Tis the Season to be Successful The second part in our series on how to get your store retail-ready for the holiday season

By Claire Sykes

H

ere, in the second of this two-part article, we’ll address how you can prepare your employees, publicity, store displays, in-store promotional events and customerservice programs for the fourthquarter surge in holiday sales which is just around the corner.

GET YOUR EMPLOYEES READY

Your staff are your most important resource during the holidays. Be prepared by ensuring you have hired and trained the right number of employees to do the best job possible.

Consider the following: • Hire extra help. Hire temporary staff ahead of the holiday rush to help you display merchandise and also to give you time to train them.

• Take time to train. Make sure your salespeople know what they’re selling and how to talk about it and promote it. Regularly inform them of incoming products, give them tips on how to successfully sell or assist customers in person, www.instoremagazine.ca

by email and on the phone. Keep them in the loop regarding in-store promotional events, advertising and direct mail programs.

DRESS UP YOUR STORE

When getting ready to put out your holiday signage, store decorations and festive window displays, take the following into account: • Express the diversity of the holiday season. Since some of your customers may not celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah or Kwanzaa at all, play up the idea of winter, instead, by using snowflakes and icicles in blues and whites. As candles are used for all three of those holidays, include images of them and scatter flameless ones around the store.

• Enlist the creativity of children.

While Mom and Dad are shopping your store, keep the kids busy with a craft table. Provide paper, scissors, glue and crayons so children can create their own special holiday decorations.

• Remember your reps. They may

be able to provide you with free holiday decorations and sales aids.

Remember to order them early, to assure availability and the best selection.

• Dress up your sales staff.

Decorations needn’t be limited to the walls and windows. Encourage your staff to partake in the holiday cheer by donning festive hats, custom-designed t-shirts or buttons.

GET INVOLVED WITH THE COMMUNITY

In the spirit of giving, the holidays bring out generosity in nearly everyone when it comes to donating time, gifts and money to charitable and social service organizations.

When you contribute, you feel good about yourself as a business owner and you also send a positive message about your store to others. Here are some ideas: • Serve as a drop-off center. Join efforts with community-service groups and offer to be a drop-off location for gifts or food donations. inStore. Fall 2019

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• Donate part of your sales. Let your customers know what percentage of sales you contribute to a particular cause. Doing so invites purchases by those who feel good when they give, and it adds to the overall favourable esteem and reputation of your store.

• Invite organizations to your store. Set up a table for volunteers to collect monetary and other donations from customers. Encourage your employees to participate by offering them one paid hour per week to help out.

HOLD IN-STORE PROMOTIONAL EVENTS

If you don’t do in-store events during the year, consider making an exception for the holidays. Chances are your competitors will take advantage of a festive promotion or two. From a simple merchandise drawing and giveaway to an elegantly catered private, evening sale, in-store events attract customers and boosts sales.

• Plan ahead. Spend time organizing so you don’t overlook anything. Take the time to coordinate with vendors, other retailers and community groups.

Use a variety of marketing methods to get the word out well in advance.

• Bring in musicians. What’s the holidays without a melody? Generate good cheer by inviting local high school singers or hiring a string quartet for an in-store event. Do any of your employees play music? Maybe they’d like to perform a solo or put a small group together.

• Organize a joint charitable event. Invite a community group to be part of your promotional event. For example, partner with a local food bank on a combination holiday sale and pancake breakfast. Money your customers save on those marked-down music boxes and snow globes can go toward the pancakes – and a worthy cause.

However you design your holiday promotional events, consider ways to present a unique theme, but be sure it’s inline with the year-round character of your store.

THROW IN A FEW EXTRAS

The more you give your customers during the holiday season, the more likely they’ll be to shop at your store. To maximize fourth-quarter sales, take a critical look at the value-added features, services, bonuses and perks you can offer to differentiate yourself from the competition.

• Special orders. Do your best to provide the products your customers want.

If you don’t, they’ll look for them elsewhere.

• Gift wrap. Your customers will appreciate the time you save them when you wrap up their purchases with pretty paper and ribbon.

• Store hours. Be aware of your competitors’ hours, and match or do better than those. Consider keeping your doors open longer in the evening and opening up on Sundays, if you don’t already.

• Delivery service. Offer it for free during the holidays.

Consider providing free overnight or second-day courier delivery for customers who want to send merchandise to friends or family out of town.

HAVE A MERRY AND SUCCESSFUL SEASON

No time is too early to plan for the holiday selling season, but make sure you don’t leave it to the last minute. You need to make room for the undesirable and unexpected, such as shipping errors, dissatisfied customers, sick employees, financial hurdles and bad weather.

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Home DĂŠcor

TRENDS 1

3

2

Boho Chic

An energizing assortment of hip home dĂŠcor pieces 1/ Beaded heart pillow, $56 retail, Indaba Trading, 800-746-3222, www.indabatrading.com

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2/ Runner, $80 retail, Indaba Trading, 800-746-3222, www.indabatrading.com 3/ Raffia mirror, $150 retail, Indaba Trading, 800-746-3222, www.indabatrading.com 4/ Mirror, $60 retail, Abbott, 800-263-2955, www.abbottcollection.com

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5/ Photo frame with stand, $12.99 retail, Nostalgia Import, 800-785-7855, www.nostalgia-import.com

6

6/ Toss cushion, $39.95 retail, Daniadown Home, 800-663-9088, www.daniadown.com 7/ Tropez pillow, $48 retail, Indaba Trading, 800-746-3222, www.indabatrading.com 8/ Palma lanterns, from $35 retail, Harman Imports, 800-363-7608, www.harmaninc.com

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inStore. Fall 2019

39

Home DĂŠcor

TRENDS 2

1

3

4

Sophisticated & Subtle

Usher in the season with nearly nudes and subtle shine 1/ Bohemia baskets, $190 retail for two, Indaba Trading, 800-746-3222, www.indabatrading.com

5

2/ Textured LED lantern, $40 retail, Abbott, 800-263-2955, www.abbottcollection.com 3/ Voyager pillow, $72 retail, Indaba Trading, 800-746-3222, www.indabatrading.com

6

4/ Antique-gold coloured birdbath, $50 retail, Canfloyd, 800-263-3551, www.canfloyd.com 5/ Chenille throw, $115 retail, Canfloyd, 800-263-3551, www.canfloyd.com 6/ Retro striped pillow, $80 retail, Canfloyd, 800-263-3551, www.canfloyd.com

7

MAD CAN E IN ADA !

7/ Toss cushion, $39.95 retail, Daniadown Home, 800-663-9088, www.daniadown.com

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Kanada DU: 11.10.2019

2. .

1 1 — O 7.— 2O2S K LOOOD GO People shape the world of business.

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the show

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41

Kanada

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the show

2. .

1 1 — O 7.— 2O2S K O O L OD GO The market needs change. The product range continues to develop. The world’s most important consumer goods trade fair is a vibrant place. Synergies strengthen the mix – for excitingly different product assortments around gifts and personal accessories.

Information and tickets: ambiente.messefrankfurt.com Tel. 905-824-5017 info@canada.messefrankfurt.com

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Discover in Frankfurt a uniquely diverse wealth of ideas for creating your product mix. In addition to classics and on-trend products, you’ll find fast-moving items that can be integrated directly into your assortment to encourage impulse purchases.

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Your all-yearround successful product mix

A selection of products for stunning spring entertaining displays

Styling by Leslie Groves Photography by Will Fournier

InBloom

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inStore. Fall 2019

43

BrightBlooms

Vibrant colours and pretty petals are perfect for spring tablescapes

3

2

1

1/ Guest napkins from Rifle Paper Company, $13 retail, through Paper E. Clips, 800-660-7068, www.papereclips.com 2/ Paper plates from Rifle Paper Company, $12 retail, through Paper E. Clips, 800-660-7068, www.papereclips.com

4

5

3/ Stackable, transportable food containers, $25 retail, Now Designs, 888-632-6422, www.danicaimports.com 4/ Cookie cutters from Meri Meri, $15.40 retail, through Paper E. Clips, 800-660-7068, www.papereclips.com 5/ Tumbler, $5 retail; shot glass, $3 retail; Now Designs, 888-632-6422, www.danicaimports.com 6/ Vinyl placemat, $6 retail, Harman Imports, 800-363-7608, www.harmaninc.com

7

7/ Oven mitts, $18 retail, Harman Imports, 800-363-7608, www.harmaninc.com

6

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www.instoremagazine.ca

inStore. Fall 2019

45

SeasideVibe

2

A laidback selection of tabletop with a slight seaside vibe

3 1

1/ Tropical mint bowl, $12 retail, Abbott, 800-263-2955, www.abbottcollection.com 2/ Seagrass placemat, $10 retail, Harman Imports, 800-363-7608, www.harmaninc.com 3/ Fish placemat, $3 retail, Abbott, 800-263-2955, www.abbottcollection.com

4

4/ Polyester tablecloth, $22.99 retail, Nostalgia Import, 800-785-7855, www.nostalgia-import.com

5

5/ Salad servers, $5 retail, Abbott, 800-263-2955, www.abbottcollection.com 6/ Hand towel, $16.50 retail, Pokoloko, 844-476-5656, www.pokoloko.com 7/ Ceramic herb grinder with storage jar from Kikkerland, $19 retail, through David Youngson & Associates, 800-370-4857, www.dyacompany.com

7 6

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inSpire. inForm. inStore.

Introducing...

Chocolate Diamond Hand Painted fridge magnets by amazing Canadian women.

FUN, whimsical and tactile.

Motivational and Inspirational making them wonderful gifts.

Visit our website to see the full range of our line.

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Chocolate Diamond has come to ArabesqueÂŽ!

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Our best-selling Corinthian BellsÂŽ have become even better with the addition of a stately new Silver Vein color.

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Fashion

Finds Sow the seeds of success with fun and fashionable accessories and jewellery

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Simply Stylis Streamlined shapes and classic colours never go out of style

1

3

2

4

MAD CAN E IN ADA !

7

6 5

MAD CAN E IN ADA !

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inStore. Fall 2019

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sh

8

1/ Crossbody from Ela Handbags, $88 retail, David Youngson & Associates, 800-370-4857, www.dyacompany.com 2/ Tote bag, $90 retail, Pixie Mood, 888-882-2386, www.pixiemood.com 3/ Necklace from Layers, $29.95 retail, through Axicon World Imports, 800-465-5587, www.axiconworld.com

9

4/ Purse from K. Carroll, $67.99 retail, Edenborough, 800-265-6398, www.edenborough.com

10

5/ Editor’s Pouch from Ela Handbags, $42 retail, David Youngson & Associates, 800-370-4857, www.dyacompany.com 6/ Pewter and gold-plated necklace from Anne-Marie Chagnon, $88 retail, through SRM Sales Consultants, 613-339-3138 7/ Pewter earrings from Anne-Marie Chagnon, $44 retail, through SRM Sales Consultants, 613-339-3138 8/ Two’s Company camouflage scarf, $44.50 retail, Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca

11

9/ Crossbody from Ela Handbags, $88 retail, David Youngson & Associates, 800-370-4857, www.dyacompany.com 10/ Mudpie hooded sweater, $77 retail, Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca

13 MAD CAN E IN ADA !

12

11/ Bucket bag, $82.50 retail, Pixie Mood, 888-882-2386, www.pixiemood.com 12/ Editor’s Pouch from Ela Handbags, $42 retail, David Youngson & Associates, 800-3704857, www.dyacompany.com 13/ Link chain and toggle necklace, $30 retail, Foxy Originals, 866-438-3699, www.foxyoriginals.com

www.instoremagazine.ca

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Fun & Flirty

3

Kick up your heels and celebrate spring with some bold and cheeky accessories

1

2

4

1/ Pompom tote bag, $70 retail, Abbott, 800-263-2955, www.abbottcollection.com 2/ Earrings from Layers, $24.95 retail, through Axicon World Imports, 800-465-5587, www.axiconworld.com

5

3/ Stainless steel necklace from FAB Accessories, $45 retail, through David Youngson & Associates, 800-370-4857, www.dyacompany.com 4/ Popsicle necklace from Meri Meri, $15.50 retail, through Paper E. Clips, 800-660-7068, www.papereclips.com

6

5/ Bandana with inspirational messages, $40 retail, Canfloyd, 800-263-3551, www.canfloyd.com 6/ Scarf/wrap, $40 retail, Fire The Imagination, , 888-780-0864, www.firetheimagination.ca 7/ Necklace, $30 retail, Foxy Originals, 866-438-3699, www.foxyoriginals.com

7 MAD CAN E IN ADA !

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Tracking the Pulse of the Gift Industry

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Visit www.giftbeat.com to SUBSCRIBE TODAY! Giftbeat is owned and operated by InStore Magazine Inc.

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SHOP OUR WAREHOUSE Extended hours during show

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inSight Barbara Crowhurst

Countdown to Christmas

I

n this month’s column, I share quick snippets of information which will help you maximize sales and increase foot traffic in the critical weeks leading up to Christmas.

Customers

During the year, customers are shopping for themselves.

During the holidays, they’re shopping for others. Make sure your merchandising, promotions and signage reflect this change in mindset.

Employees

It’s all hands on deck! Ensure employees are hydrated and wearing comfortable shoes. There’s no time for idle chit chat and when the store is busy, everyone must be on the floor. Train employees to ask customers, “Who’s on your shopping list today?” This phrase engages the customer and allows the employees to “lend a helping hand” rather than “sell”.

Provide employees with three different features and benefits for every item in the store.

Signage

Ensure your signs provide customers with all the relevant information on promotions and specials as well as provide direction to departments and bestsellers.

Don’t forget to create a few sentiment signs, such as, “Your wife called. She loves this product!”, “Santa shops here!” and “We have something for everyone on your shopping list!”

Extras

Put in extra effort during the holidays and it will pay off. One of my favourite money-generating ideas is to select a ‘Pick of the Week’. Place it at the cash desk and ensure staff are well versed on its features and benefits.

Put aside time to call your best customers when an item arrives which you think they’ll love.

Share Sales Goals

Share your sales goals with staff. Inform them of the sales goal for the day, key promotions, the products that are selling (or not) and any new items that have arrived.

I always recommend incentivizing staff to meet sales goals, but that’s a whole other discussion (contact me!). www.instoremagazine.ca

SEASONAL SALES Buckle up!

Store Maintenance

Walk through your store several times a day. Check for displays that need replenishing, signage that’s fallen over and any garbage customers have left behind.

Move and refresh displays to stimulate shopping.

Website

Redesign your website to showcase a cross section of products ideal for Christmas gift-giving. If you don’t already, invest in ‘click and collect’ ordering or better yet, offer a full-blown ecommerce website. Refresh your search engine optimization tags and make your site mobile-friendly.

Events & Marketing

Host one to four events a month. Determine which products you want to promote during the events and ensure there’s enough stock on hand.

Post daily to Instagram and Facebook (say something new each time), advertise on Facebook and don’t forget about Pinterest – women love this platform.

Send out new email content at minimum once a week. To really generate sales, create a gift catalogue and email it to your customers (contact me for more details).

Take deep breaths and don’t forget to look after yourself. Happy holidays!

Barbara Crowhurst is a business coach and store designer who works with clients around the world. www.retailmakeover.ca inStore. Fall 2019

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inForm CanGift Connects

Experience the Evolution of Retail Change is in the air for the CanGift trade shows in Toronto and Edmonton

By Anita Schachter

T

here’s a lot of buzz surrounding the word “experience” in the retail industry as businesses strive to offer their customers an unforgettable moment, something that really sets them apart. The redesigned Toronto and Alberta Gift + Home Markets aim to inspire retailers in the same way.

With the many avenues available to consumers, it’s more important than ever to craft memories that extend beyond your storefront. Whether you host unique instore events that give customers the opportunity to shop in a different way than they normally would, identify cross-promotional partnerships or

With the many avenues available to consumers, it’s more important than ever to craft memories that extend beyond your storefront. create an element of surprise with small gestures, the success of your business is dependent on your ability to build engaging relationships with customers.

The framework for attracting loyal customers begins by offering them more new and unique products, and our CanGift markets are committed to being your top destination for

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sourcing items your customers will love. With complimentary parking, comfortable lounges and refreshments, presentations by the industry’s leading experts, exciting promotions and more than 600 exhibitors for you to connect with on the show floor, you’ll find something new in every aisle at the Toronto Gift + Home Market, being held January 26 to 30.

In Edmonton, the refreshed Alberta Gift + Home Market, taking place from February 23 to 26, is welcoming back Edmonton’s favourite designer Cory Christopher with more emphasis on local retailers, fun promotions and hands-on workshops. The mix of artisanal regional exhibitors and household company names aims to show retailers how they can introduce more Canadian-made products into their existing stock list.

Your experience begins with registration and we look forward to hearing from you to confirm your attendance at one, or both, of our spring markets!

Submitted by CanGift President & CEO Anita Schachter on behalf of the association’s board of directors. For more information about the association visit www.cangift.org.

inSpire. inForm. inStore.

d n i r G & h s a St P CHILD-

KIKKERLAND.COM

R O O F,

@KIKKERLAND

TF, L I G H O O R P SMELL

P RO O F

1-800-869-1105