InStore Winter 2022

Winter 2022

THE DEFINITIVE RESOURCE FOR INDEPENDENT LIFESTYLE RETAILERS

instoremagazine.ca

RETAIL VISIONS

2022

Trend Forecast

PILLOW TALK PARTY ESSENTIALS

Glam

& much more!

Neutrals

DESIGN HOME IS PROUD TO BE THE NEW SALES REPRESENTATIVES FOR A&A STORY, IN CANADA

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EXTENDED DATING & FREIGHT INCENTIVES AVAILABLE

FRIDAY & SATURDAY PRE-SHOW PERMANENT TORONTO SHOWROOM Design Home Gift & Paper Inc. 7580 Bath Road Mississauga, ON L4T 1L2 Jan 28-29 | 9:00AM to 9:00PM TORONTO GIFT + HOME MARKET CONGRESS CENTRE NEW Location - South Building Hall 2 - BOOTH #2403

THREE WAYS TO ORDER

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CONTACT YOUR DESIGN HOME DIVISION 1 & 2 SALES REPRESENTATIVE ORDER ONLINE www.designhome.ca CONTACT US Design Home Gift & Paper Inc. 7580 Bath Road Mississauga, ON L4T 1L2 800-663-9950 sales@designhome.ca

WE LOOK FORWARD TO WELCOMING YOU

TO OUR NEW TORONTO SHOWROOM LARGEST GIFT & HOME SHOWROOM

SPRING 2022

IN CANADA – OVER 18,000 SQ FT

FRIDAY & SATURDAY PRE-SHOW PERMANENT TORONTO SHOWROOM 7580 Bath Road Mississauga, ON L4T 1L2 Jan 28-29 | 9:00AM to 9:00PM OUR SHOWROOM IS 10 MIN. NORTH OF THE TORONTO CONGRESS CENTRE

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TRUE BRANDS' FAMILY OF BRANDS OFFER A WIDE ARRAY OF PRODUCTS THAT RANGE FROM FUNCTIONAL DRINKWARE & STUNNING GLASSWARE TO HEARTWARMING HOME GOODS, DELIGHTFUL TEAS & MORE! PRE-SHOW DATES: FRIDAY, JANUARY 28TH & SATURDAY, JANUARY 29TH IN OUR TORONTO SHOWROOM

FRIDAY & SATURDAY PRE-SHOW PERMANENT TORONTO SHOWROOM Design Home Gift & Paper Inc. 7580 Bath Road Mississauga, ON L4T 1L2 Jan 28-29 | 9:00AM to 9:00PM TORONTO GIFT + HOME MARKET CONGRESS CENTRE NEW Location - South Building Hall 2 - BOOTH #2403

THREE WAYS TO ORDER

SPRING 2022 SHOWS

REPRESENTING THE BEST HOME, GIFT & LIFESTYLE LINES IN THE INDUSTRY

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EXTENDED DATING & FREE FREIGHT INCENTIVES AVAILABLE

CONTACT YOUR DESIGN HOME DIVISION 1 & 2 SALES REPRESENTATIVE ORDER ONLINE www.designhome.ca CONTACT US Design Home Gift & Paper Inc. 7580 Bath Road Mississauga, ON L4T 1L2 800-663-9950 sales@designhome.ca

®

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HUNDREDS OF FALL & HOLIDAY 2022 INTRODUCTIONS ON DISPLAY IN OUR 18,000 SQ FT SHOWROOM

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SEE US AT THE TORONTO GIFT & HOME MARKET – NEW LOCATION – CONGRESS CENTRE HALL 2 BOOTH 2403

FRIDAY & SATURDAY PRE-SHOW PERMANENT TORONTO SHOWROOM Design Home Gift & Paper Inc. 7580 Bath Road Mississauga, ON L4T 1L2 Jan 28-29 | 9:00AM to 9:00PM TORONTO GIFT + HOME MARKET CONGRESS CENTRE NEW Location - South Building Hall 2 - BOOTH #2403

THREE WAYS TO ORDER

SPRING 2022 SHOWS

REPRESENTING THE BEST HOME, GIFT & LIFESTYLE LINES IN THE INDUSTRY

REPRESENTING THE BEST HOME, GIFT & LIFESTYLE LINES IN THE INDUSTRY

SPRING & SUMMER 2022 COLLECTIONS ARE IN STOCK & READY TO SHIP

CONTACT YOUR DESIGN HOME DIVISION 1 & 2 SALES REPRESENTATIVE ORDER ONLINE www.designhome.ca CONTACT US Design Home Gift & Paper Inc. 7580 Bath Road Mississauga, ON L4T 1L2 800-663-9950 sales@designhome.ca

contents

inStore VOL. 08/NO.02

81

inStock DEPARTMENTS

17 World Traveller Gifts for gals who love to gad about the world

24 Guy Gifts The coolest new giftware and gadgets for men

28 Splish, Splash!

Posh accessories for the chicest bathrooms 30 Fresh Florals Candles and personal care awash in botanicals 32 Welcome Home!

Usher in spring with a bevy of beautiful doormats 34 Pillow Talk Our favourite pillows for spring and summer!

inStyle FEATURES

61 Golden Hour

Home décor trends this season focus on glam neutrals and celebrate the female form

81 What’s Next?

Style predictions for 2022

111 Finding Opportunities Independent retailer Diane Petryna discusses how independent retailers can find opportunities among the chaos.

113 Retail Visions In her first column, our newest contributor Nickeisha Lewis shares her core principles for great store design.

By Ray Shikatani

97 On the Hunt

8

109 Starting Strong Retail expert and business coach Barbara Crowhurst on repositioning your business in the new year.

Connecting our community through technology

Cool classics along with fresh finds for summer entertaining Tracking down the sweetest products for babies and kids

14 Hello!

Come Together

71 Embracing Change

75 Party Essentials for Summer

56 89

DEPARTMENTS

FEATURE

FEATURES

Winter 2022

inSight

48 Shop Profile There are few shops better tailored to the love of the outdoors than Featherfields, the Bird and Garden Store, located in London, Ont.

19 Romance in Bloom A perfectly pretty assortment of gifts she’ll love

26 Have Bag, Will Travel Must-have travel bags and accessories

THIS ISSUE

inForm DEPARTMENTS

41 News & Notes New lines, launches, industry goings-on and upcoming trade shows 114 CanGift Connects We’re Back!

FEATURES

56 Boho Chic

How to showcase a curated collection of on-trend merchandise

By Leslie Groves

85 Right Here, On Your Own

How to appeal to consumers who want to shop and support local businesses

By Claire Sykes

89 The Journey to Becoming a Destination Creating a destinationfocused business remains a winning strategy for independent stores

By Natalie Hammer Noblitt

93 Going with the Flow VIEW THIS ITEM ON PAGE 26

inStore. Winter 2022

How to streamline your receiving area

By Claire Sykes

inSpire. inForm. inStore.

making spirits bright PRE BOOKING NOW

contact customer service or your sales representative for exclusive offers. harmaninc.com info@harmaninc.com @harmaninc shopzio.com 1-800-363-7608

inSpire. inForm

RETAIL MAKEOVER I.T. 2021 will be without a doubt a challenging year for all retail sectors.

In light of the evolving events surrounding COVID-19, we are helping Independent retailers and other small businesses survive.

We have the plan for you.

Your first meeting with us is free.

The COVID-19 Retail Emergency Strategy Survival Plan

Plan Today

Barbara & Stephen Crowhurst

Barbara J. Crowhurst Leading International COVID Emergency Retail Business Coach, Author, Speaker, Sales Trainer, Retail Store Designer, Merchandising Specialist, Social Media Marketing Specialist Office Line Ext 1: 905.686.8898 Mobile Line: 416.522.8169 Email: retailmakeoverca@gmail.com Website: www.retailmakeover.ca

Stephen A. Crowhurst Website Design, Consulting, Training, Setup, Design, Customizing, Maintenance, SEO Optimization

inStore. Winter 2022

Advertising & Production Coordinator Tina Nicholl tina@instoremagazine.ca

Contributors Barbara Crowhurst, Castlerock Studios, Will Fournier, Leslie Groves, Nickeisha Lewis, Natalie Hammer Noblitt, Diane Petryna, Ray Shikatani, 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 décor, hardware, pharmacy and florist. © 2022 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

Office Line Ext 2: 905.686.8898 Mobile Line: 416.553.8056 Email: retailmakeoverweb@gmail.com www.retailmakeoverweb.com

RetailMakeover_W21.indd 1

Design & Layout Gerry Wiebe

Editorial Submissions editorial@instoremagazine.ca Mailing Address: 103 Niska Drive Waterdown, ON L8B 0M8

For more information please write or call us to set up your first meeting.

At this time more than ever you want our winning approach to one-on-one business analysis and strategic emergency planning designed just for you and your business.

10

Editor & Publisher Erica Kirkland ekirkland@instoremagazine.ca

Advertising Inquiries ekirkland@instoremagazine.ca 905-690-0492

Our survival plan is focused on what you must know if you want your Retail Business to survive through these uncertain times.

We are here to help you.

THE DEFINITIVE RESOURCE FOR INDEPENDENT LIFESTYLE RETAILERS

2020-12-18 4:15 PM

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January 30 – February 3, 2022 Toronto Congress Centre

LIVE + IN PERSON!

Registration and Hospitality now open. togifthomemarket.ca @cangift

my fav...

inSight Hello

Come Together When we started putting this issue together in late fall, we were anticipating the joy of being able to come together once again at our industry’s biggest event – the Toronto Gift & Home Market. As the weeks ticked by, rumblings about the Omicron variant of Covid started hitting our shores, and now in mid December as we prepare to send these files to the printer, it’s unclear what the New Year will bring.

Store owners I’ve been speaking with throughout the pandemic can’t wait for trade show travel to resume as they much prefer sourcing in person at markets. Flipping through catalogues and scrolling pages of websites is not inspiring for most and has proven to be difficult and timeconsuming for many business owners who simply don’t enjoy using these mediums.

Yet, whether you attended a Zoom meeting in place of a showroom tour or an online marketplace instead of a trade show, this global pandemic has forced us all to adopt technology. In ‘Embracing Change’ on page 71, industry veteran Ray Shikatani talks about how our community can – and should – be connected through technology.

Staying inspired while the world is seemingly in chaos can be tricky, so we’ve come up with plenty of easy-to-read advice and insight features that will help keep your business on its toes. Discover how to appeal to consumers who want to shop local in ‘Right Here, On Your Own’ on page 85, learn how to create a destination-focused business in ‘The Journey to Becoming a Destination’ on page 89 and read about the hottest style trends for 2022 in ‘What’s Next?’ on page 81.

Wherever your journey takes you this year, we wish you all the best as we look forward to coming together . . . when we can.

Let me introduce you to Nickeisha Lewis, our newest contributor. As the owner of Nola Designs, Nickeisha is a store designer extraordinaire who focuses on helping female-owned entrepreneurs create beautiful, inspiring retail spaces. In her column for InStore, Nickeisha will share her insights on store design, visual merchandising and much more! In this edition she introduces us to her ‘Core Principles’. Check out those along with shots of some of the spaces she’s designed in ‘Retail Visions’ on page 113. In between issues, stay up to date with Nickeisha through her active Instagram feed @noladesigns.

Erica Kirkland Publisher & Editor

in this issue While the doldrums of a Canadian winter may be upon us, the pages of this issue shine bright with scads of fun, fresh finds selected just for you!

Welcome in the season with a bevy of beautiful doormats (page 32) while freshening up your décor section with the hottest pillows (page 34). Find

14

inStore. Winter 2022

page 75 and don’t miss our trend predictions for 2022 in ‘What’s Next?’ on page 81.

cool and classic pieces for summer entertaining in ‘Party Essentials for Summer’ on

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Eclectic patterns and must feel textures from a global community of artists who imagine, make, and share products that bring us together.

Environmental sustainability and creative design bring a little thoughtful beauty to any home.

The perfect ingredients to express, enjoy and share the love for all things culinary.

A celebration of the simple things through colour and vibrancy to spark smiles every day.

Explore the bold, inviting, and ever-evolving world of modern inspired designs.

29 CO LLECTI O NS AN D OVER 50 N EW PRO D U CTS!

Modern home and living decor products that deliver color, pattern, and thoughtful design.

DISTRIBUTED BRANDS

DANICABR ANDS.COM · INFO@DANICABR ANDS.COM · 1.888.632.6422

inStock

World Traveller

What We’re Loving

2

Gifts for girls who love to gad about the world

1

1/ Elsie & Zoey loungewear, starting from $31.49, Edenborough, 800-265-6398, www.edenborough.com 2/ Flowerpot, from $17 retail, North American Country Home, 888-303-2221, northamericancountryhome.com

3

3/ Signature 19-ounce Volcano jar candle from Capri Blue, $39 retail, Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca 4/ Solid green pashmina scarf, $12.99 retail, Bella Flor, 800-667-1902, www.bellaflor.ca 5/ Linen cushion with tie knot, Bovi Home, 800-691-2166, www.pineadvbovi.com

4

6/ Kantha patchwork pillow, $96 retail, Indaba Trading, 800-746-3222, www.indabatrading.com

5

7/ Wild Fig glass candle from Paddywax Candles, $26 retail, Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca 8/ Blossom three-tier tiffin from Danica Heirloom, $28 retail, Danica, 888-632-6422, www.danicabrands.com

6

8

7

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inStore. Winter 2022

17

inStock

Romance in Bloom

2

What We’re Loving

1

A perfectly pretty assortment of gifts she’ll love

1/ Ceramic pot, $15 retail, North American Country Home, 888-303-2221, northamericancountryhome.com 2/ Hopper Studios pillow, Bella Flor, 800-667-1902, www.bellaflor.ca

3

3/ Cottage Floral tote bag from Now Designs $16 retail, Danica, 888-632-6422, www.danicabrands.com 4/ Demdaco slipper booties, $72 retail, Candym Enterprises, 800-263-3551, www.candym.com

4

5/ Tufted cotton mat, Accents de Ville, 800-691-2166, www.pineadvbovi.com 6/ Layers necklace, $29.95 retail, Axicon World Imports, 800-465-5587, www.axiconworld.com

6 7 5

7/ Bouquet dishtowel from Danica Jubilee, $12 retail, Danica, 888-632-6422, www.danicabrands.com 8/ Santa Barbara Design Studio champagne tumbler, $10.50 retail, Design Home Gift & Paper, 800663-9950, www.designhome.ca

8

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inStore. Winter 2022

19

PUZZLES GAMES TOYS CRAFTS & MORE HANDY

PUZZLE ROLLS!

CRAFTS

A Division of Norcard Enterprises Ltd. new exclusive distributor for CR Gibson

INFO@BELLAFLOR.CA | 800.667.1902

1 Top Selling Cards 16 years in a row

#

Sell the cards that sell the best!

Gifts for Guys

inStock What We’re Loving

2

The coolest new gifts and gadgets for men

1

1/ Redneck exfoliating soap, $11.99 retail, Walton Wood Farm, 844-834-3276, www.waltonwoodfarm.com 2/ Carson stainless steel football tumbler, $41.99 retail, Edenborough, 800-265-6398, www.edenborough.com 3/ Funk Off! smell and stain remover, $19.99, Walton Wood Farm, 844-834-3276, www.waltonwoodfarm.com

4

3

4/ Beard grooming set, $8 retail, Frans Koppers Imports, 866-604-0490, www.koppershome.com 5/ Born To Drive Soap, $11.99 retail, Bella Flor, 800-667-1902, www.bellaflor.ca 6/ Saw plaque, $20 retail, Frans Koppers Imports, 866-604-0490, www.koppershome.com

6

5

24

inStore. Winter 2022

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zinodavidof f.com

1-800-446-8630 www.burneygiftware.com orders@burneygiftware.com @burney.giftware

Have Bag, Will Travel

inStock What We’re Loving

2

Must-have travel bags and accessories

1

1/ Kelsey Crossbody Bags from K. Carroll, $67.99 retail each, Edenborough, 800-265-6398, www.edenborough.com 2/ Evelyn sling backpack from Ryan Marie, $36.99 retail, Edenborough, 800-265-6398, www.edenborough.com 3/ Beach bag, $36 retail, North American Country Home, 888-303-2221, www.northamericancountryhome. com

3

4/ Curio cinch backpack from Danica Studio, $20 retail, Danica, 888-632-6422, www.danicabrands.com

4

5/ Canvas tote from Santa Barbara Design Studio, $57 retail, Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca 6/ Far and Away hip bag from Danica Studio, $30 retail, Danica, 888-632-6422, www.danicabrands.com

6 5

26

inStore. Winter 2022

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APPEARING AT

GIFT+ HOME MARKET TORONTO

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ATLANTIC

CANADA

NEW PRODUCTS SPRING 2022 HALL 3, CONGRESS CENTRE SOUTH 1 2 3 4

The Tea Brewery Simply Go Natural David Stepan Seafoam Lavender

5 Loretta Gould Mikmaq Artist 6 Hannah Hicks Art 7 All for Knot

t2�CRAFT �� EAST EXP(j FEBRUARY 12-13, 2022 • HALIFAX, NOVA SCOTIA

BUYER INCENTIVE PROGRAM Attend the 2022 Craft

East Buyers' Expo and get

complimentary return

airfare+ to the show as part

of our Buyer Incentive Program.

+Conditions apply

FOLLOW US ON...

11 /CraftEastBuyersExpo t:l @CraftEastExpo

� /crafteastbuyersexpo

CONTACT US...

crafteast@craftalliance.ca 1-855-567-4897 Toll Free

Splish Splash!

inStock What We’re Loving

2

Posh accessories for the chicest bathrooms

1

1/ Paper rope tray, $65 retail, North American Country Home, 888-303-2221, www.northamericancountryhome. com

3

2/ Cylinder soap pump, Abbott, 800-263-2955, www.abbottcollection.com

4

3/ Garden tap towel ring, Abbott, 800-263-2955, www.abbottcollection.com 4/ Sign, $17 retail, Frans Koppers Imports, 866-604-0490, www.koppershome.com 5/ Bathmat, $25 retail, Frans Koppers Imports, 866-604-0490, www.koppershome.com 6/ Sahara bathmat, $130 retail, Indaba Trading, 800-746-3222, www.indabatrading.com 7/ Bathroom caddy, $27 retail, Frans Koppers Imports, 866-604-0490, www.koppershome.com

6

5

8/ Eye bathmat, Accents de Ville, 800-691-2166, www.pineadvbovi.com

8 7

28

inStore. Winter 2022

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l NAGH

NORTH AMERICAN Cou TRY HOME

2 3440 Bridgeway St., Vancouver,

e 1-888-303-2221

NORTH AMERICAN COUNTRY HOME

ift\ WWW.NACH.CA � Email:admin@nach.ca

Fresh Florals

inStock What We’re Loving

Candles and personal care are awash in botanicals this season

2

1 1/ Greenleaf Orange & Honey foaming hand soap, $20 retail, Candym Enterprises, 800-263-3551, www.candym.com 2/ Blossom soap bars, $12 retail each, Blooming Wild Botanicals, 506-328-3850, www.bloomingwild.ca

4

3

3/ Bloom body mousse, $24 retail, Blooming Wild Botanicals, 506-328-3850, www.bloomingwild.ca

5

4/ Botanical body oil, $28 retail, Blooming Wild Botanicals, 506-328-3850, www.bloomingwild.ca 5/ Greenleaf Gooseberry & Fig reed diffuser, $32 retail, Candym Enterprises, 800-263-3551, www.candym.com 6/ Greenleaf Lavender multi-surface spray, $20 retail, Candym Enterprises, 800-263-3551, www.candym.com

7

7/ Lovely Fizz bath soak, $12 retail, Blooming Wild Botanicals, 506-328-3850, www.bloomingwild.ca

6

8/ Guava Blossom and Lemon Verbena candles, $10 retail each, Nostalgia Import Canada, 800-785-7855, www.nostalgia-import.com

8

30

inStore. Winter 2022

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J O I N U S FO R A N O P E N H O U S E AT T H E P O RT M E I R I O N S H O W R O O M

January 25 to February 4, 2022 | 9am - 9pm *by appointment only

PROMOTIONS & BOOKING SPECIALS AVAILABLE PROMOTIONS & BOOKING SPEC IALS AVAILABLE

PA RT O F PART

Located Located just just 5 5 minutes minutes from from the the airport. airport.

Contact your sales sales representative representative or or email email Contact your sales@portmeirion.ca to book your appointment. sales@portmeirion.ca to book your appointment.

20 Voyager Court South, Etobicoke, ON M9W 5M7 Toll Toll Free Free 1-800-387-3864 1-800-387-3864 || www.portmeiron.ca www.portmeiron.ca

inStock

Welcome Home

The Round-up

Usher in spring with a bevy of beautiful doormats

1

1/ Danica Jubilee In This Together doormat, $36 retail, Danica, 888-632-6422, www.danicabrands.com 2/ Tag Welcome doormat, $45 retail, Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca

3

2

3/ Danica Studio Echo doormat, $40 retail, Danica, 888-632-6422, www.danicabrands.com 4/ Embossed Eh! doormat, Harman Imports, 800-363-7608, www.harmaninc.com

4

5

5/ Whale doormat, Pine, 800-691-2166, www.pineadvbovi.com 6/ Now Designs Birdsong doormat, $32 retail, Danica, 888-632-6422, www.danicabrands.com

6

7/ Floral doormat, Abbott, 800-263-2955, www.abbottcollection.com

7

8/ Bright flipflops doormat, Abbott, 800-263-2955, www.abbottcollection.com 9/ Good To Be Home doormat, from $30 retail, North American Country Home, 888-303-2221, www.northamericancountryhome. com

9

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inStock

Pillow Talk

The Round-up

2

New and gorgeous throw pillows for spring and summer!

1

1/ Velvet Flower pillow, Pine, 800-691-2166, www.pineadvbovi.com 2/ Flamingo cushion cover, Harman Imports, 800-363-7608, www.harmaninc.com 3/ Big Flower pillow, Pine, 800-691-2166, www.pineadvbovi.com

4

4/ Grow With Love pillow, Pine, 800-691-2166, www.pineadvbovi.com

3

5/ Mitchel cushion cover, Harman Imports, 800-363-7608, www.harmaninc.com 6/ Bee Happy pillow, $84 retail, Candym Enterprises, 800-263-3551, www.candym.com 7/ Embroidered xoxo pillow, Accents de Ville, 800-691-2166, www.pineadvbovi.com

5

8/ Golden harbour pillow, $60 retail, Canfloyd, 800-263-3551, www.canfloyd.com

6

7

34

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inStore. Winter 2022

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www.edenborough.com 800.265.6398 Gift + Home Market Toronto Booth #3365, #3415

www.edenborough.com www.edenborough.com www.edenborough.com www.edenborough.com www.edenborough.com 800.265.6398 800.265.6398 800.265.6398 800.265.6398 800.265.6398 Gift + Gift Home + Home Market Market Toronto Toronto Booth Booth #3365, #3365, #3415 #3415 Gift + Home Market Toronto Booth #3365, #3415 Gift + Gift Home + Home Market Market Toronto Toronto Booth Booth #3365, #3365, #3415 #3415

Keep Keep Going Going

www.edenborough.com www.edenborough.com 800.265.6398 800.265.6398 Gift + Home Market Toronto Booth #3365, #3415 Gift + Home Market Toronto Booth #3365, #3415

WALL DÉCOR

ORNATE DÉCOR

MARKER BOARDS

EMPLOYEE OWNED NEW AT MARKET JANUARY 2022 KEY CHAINS

CANVAS

COASTER SETS

AIR FRESHENERS

PHOTO FRAMES

www.edenborough.com 800.265.6398 Gift + Home Market Toronto Booth #3365, #3415

inForm News & Notes

News & Notes

Inside Track NEWS IN BRIEF

New Research Shows Scented Candles Aren’t Harmful

Photo created by Racool_studio - www.freepik.com

A new study conducted by the National Candle Association (NCA), European Candle Association (ECA) and the Latin American Candle Manufacturers Association (ALAFAVE) has examined candle emissions and the safety of burning scented candles in the home.

Specifically, the research was designed to determine and evaluate the release of gaseous compounds and airborne particles during the burning of candles with different wax and fragrance combinations.

According to NCA, fragrance is by far the most important characteristic impacting candle purchases today, prompting the need for new, reliable data on emissions of scented candles. The study, published in the October 2021 issue of Environment International, is the largest and most comprehensive study to date to evaluate the emissions of burning candles of varying compositions (meaning wax type and if the candle is scented or unscented). The study demonstrated that typical fragranced candle emissions are below the most conservative safe limits set by regulatory authorities and safety organizations.

“Being able to clearly demonstrate that the use of scented candles is safe is of utmost importance to our industry,” said Dr. Rob Harrington, a toxicologist and the director of regulatory affairs for Arylessence. “This is the most comprehensive study of candle emissions available to date. We looked at potentially hazardous combustion products and other candle emissions, such as fragrance, to determine if there is any potential health risk associated with scented candles. This study refutes allegations that candles are harmful to health and clearly demonstrates that candle emissions are well below the strictest safety standards set by authorities worldwide.”

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41

inForm News & Notes

Inside Track NEWS IN BRIEF

Juniper Names New Country Manager for Canada Juniper has announced the hiring of Ray Shikatani, a 30-year veteran of Canada’s gift and home industry, as its new country manager for Canada. This new role, which blends responsibilities formerly held by Ross Amyot – who retires after nearly 50 years in the industry – with new elements specific to development of omnichannel business-to-business opportunities, is effective immediately.

“Ray brings a wealth of valuable and relevant experience to the position, which will help us successfully navigate our business partnerships in Canada,” said Bill Furlong, Juniper CEO. Powered by IMC, Juniper is a new fully integrated omnichannel B2B commerce solution and soon-to-launch multi-line B2B e-commerce marketplace. As the country manager for Canada, Shikatani will have responsibility for navigating Juniper’s Canadian position and profile with specific responsibility for maintaining and growing Juniper software adoption, assisting in product development for the Canadian market and liaising with industry leaders in Canada.

Shikatani brings over 30 years of gift and home industry marketing and sales experience to Juniper. Most recently, he served as president and partner of David Youngson and Associates, a leading Canadian gift sales agency and importer, representing some of the world’s best-known brands in the wholesale trade.

“I’m looking forward to helping Juniper’s team navigate the nuance and complexity of the Canadian market, which has important commerce and culture differences that need to be understood and overcome in order to be successful for future growth,” said Shikatani. “More importantly, I am eager to work with my fellow industry colleagues to help shape the future of our industry through technology.”

Shikatani joins Juniper just weeks before the launch of JuniperMarket and is the most recent addition to a team that has hired more than 100 new staff over the past year. Juniper has over 200 team members. www.junipercommerce.com

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THE GOODS

Woodstock Chimes Comes to Canfloyd Canfloyd became the Canadian distributor of Woodstock Chimes effective December 2021, and the company is ready to take orders online or in person. All new orders purchased through Canfloyd will be shipped FOB from the company’s warehouse in Markham, while Woodstock’s spring 2022 product will be on display in the company’s showroom in Markham beginning January 5. www.canfloyd.com

Celebrate the new year with us in person at the Toronto Gift Fair January 30 - February 3 Hall 2, Booth 2265 kitras.ca 1-800-439-6393 orders@kitras.com

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inForm

THE GOODS

News & Notes

Inside Track NEWS IN BRIEF

Gourmet Du Village Celebrates 40th Anniversary In the fall of 1982 Gourmet du Village started in the home kitchen of the Tott family in the village of Morin Heights, Quebec. Holiday spice mixes were their biggest seller those days and became the focus of the business. Over the years the hobby business grew and the product collection enlarged to include herb and spice dips, seasoning recipes and hot chocolate mixes. In 2004 the company launched a ‘dip chiller’, signalling its foray into offering accessories with its food products. In 2008 the company introduced Canadians to a simple idea from France – the brie baker, which is still a top seller, and then last year they had one of their best new product launches in years with a DIY Hot Chocolate Bomb kit.

The business continues to grow on both sides of the border and remains family owned and operated. Today the Tott family works alongside the Reich family who purchased the business in 2018, bringing years of experience in the specialty food industry, along with a renewed energy and new investments. Ashley Tott serves as general manager while co-founder Mike Tott continues to work part-time as the company’s creative director. www.gourmetduvillage.com

1982 2008

2021

Hettie Comes to Canada British & Irish Imports is introducing the award-winning luxury lifestyle brand Hettie to Canadian independent retailers. Handcrafted in England, the line unites fashionforward British design with traditional hand craftsmanship. Hettie is home to a range of handmade British accessories for the home, humans and hounds, from unique dog collars and harnesses to luxury wool totes and shoulder bags. Each piece is designed to be treasured for a lifetime and passed down from generation to generation, and all of the materials used reflect the natural colour tones found within the British countryside. Concentrating on quality over quantity, the collections are run in small batches ensuring authenticity and unique value to each piece. As such, lines often sell out quickly and, in many cases, are not repeated. www.biimports.com

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THE GOODS

Kay Dee Has Outdoor Entertaining Covered Kay Dee Designs has outdoor entertaining wrapped up this season. From strawberries and bumblebees to farmhouse checks and campers, the textile company’s introductions for spring and summer cover the entire trend gauntlet. Besides a mind-boggling assortment of tea towels, they also offer matching braided placemats, drying mats, oven mitts, potholders and aprons. www.kaydeedesigns.com

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What’s new? What’s selling?

What product categories are slowing down?

Giftbeat tracks sales among hundreds of retail stores across the United States to learn what product lines are selling across more than 50 categories. This vital information is only available to subscribers.

Only Giftbeat Subscribers Receive: • Vital market research on the hottest selling product lines in the United States across 50 categories • Specific, actionable information from U.S. retailers on what to buy • Early insight into the product lines that are selling so you can cash in on the trends • Access to Giftbeat’s active online community board where you can post questions only a fellow gift retailer could answer

Join the thousands of gift industry professionals who subscribe to Giftbeat!

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

inSight Shop Profile

FEATHERFIELDS

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The Bird & Garden Store There are few shops better tailored to the love of the outdoors than the independently-owned Featherfields in London, Ont. The store is a haven for bird lovers and gardeners, as well as a popular destination for unique gifts.

By Erica Kirkland How did your stores get started, and how have they evolved?

The original owner of Featherfields was a biologist who spent her career travelling and studying birds. In 1996, she decided to settle in London, Ont., and opened the store, specialising in wild bird seed and feeders. The store became a staple in town and over the years customers started to want a ‘one-stop’ shopping experience, so they brought in local and Canadianmade items which grew into various departments including a home area, greeting card section and kids’ department. www.instoremagazine.ca

In 2019, the original owner was retiring, and I was looking looking for a new endeavour and found a business which had great potential for growth.

How did you get involved in retail?

Like many entrepreneurs my path to owning a business wasn’t linear. I studied photography after high school and then moved to Toronto where I interned at Fashion. While looking for a new gig, I took a job managing a retail store which I loved. After working in engineering for eight years, I got hired by Le Labo

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JUST THE STATS Store: Featherfields Location: London, Ont. Employees: Nine Top-selling gift lines: Honey Candles, Castart Studios, Campania International, One Hundred Stars Website: www.featherfields.com

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to open their first Canadian location on Queen West, which was a dream come true. Then in 2018 I moved back to London. I spent a lot of time thinking about what I wanted, and decided I wanted something that would make me happy – I wanted to be my own boss.

I wasn’t sure if that was going to be opening a store, being a consultant or what, when low and behold Featherfields was up for sale.

I rebranded the store slowly. I kept the same name and hired an artist to paint a new logo and create a brand board with a colour family. I also kept the staff.

Many had been there for many years and knew much more about birding than I did. In the past couple of years, I’ve taught myself with the help of employees and customers. We are always learning from each other in the store. There is a real spirit of education and sharing which is part of the experience.

During the pandemic the birding industry has been booming and we’re having so much fun educating new birders and backyard nature enthusiasts. Actually, this past September we opened a section location. Last Christmas, I was driving through Wortley Village, which is this two-block radius in London filled with boutique stores and independent restaurants and found this beautiful building that was up for lease, and I just decided to go for it. The building and the location really suits the business.

How would you describe your stores and their atmospheres?

The two stores have two very different feels, but our brand colours tie them together. The Hyde Park location is located on the west side of the city which was once very rural but has since been developed.

It has a very country feel. The floors are enormous barnboard, and the furniture and displays are antique or upcycled, while our new location has a more refined presence with white fixtures. Customers say our stores are calming and serene. They come here to unwind and will spend well over an hour shopping. Throughout the stores, nature sounds or light jazz can be heard, while the Hyde Park store smells deliciously of wild bird seed.

What product categories do you carry?

All the products we carry are Canadian nature in theme, so you won’t see any lions or tigers, but we have lots of beavers and owls. Our main product categories are birdfeeders and bird seed which account for 60 percent of sales at the Hyde Park Store and about 10 percent in the new store. We didn’t start out with the intention to offer different items, but the neighbourhoods demanded it.

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In both stores we have a selection of birdfeeders and seed, bird and nature-related décor and giftware, a small selection of personal care and candles, and a large selection of educational books on birding, gardening, and nature. We have a big kids’ section which includes educational books, craft kits, puppets, puzzles, games, bug boxes and flower presses. In the new location, the kids’ area has this big, beautiful mural which makes children feel like they’re in the middle of a forest.

What makes your stores unique?

Our focus on Canadian nature products sets us apart and people appreciate the time we spend curating and merchandising product. We are told regularly that we have gift items no one else carries in the city.

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

When I took over the store, we had to update a lot of things like our website, and we just got online shopping launched after a massive delay. Locally, we advertise on radio stations and do a little bit of print advertising in local magazines. We also invest in targeted advertising, and I hired a fulltime person to handle social media. Word of mouth has proven by far to the most effective form of marketing though.

Do you have a favourite new product line?

One that I’m really excited about is Aviologie (www.aviologie.com). Based in British Columbia, they make beautiful handmade wooden birds. They make a stunning gift. Even people who aren’t familiar with birds love the pieces. We are also loving One Hundred Stars which is luxurious and beautiful.

What do you see for the future?

I’m planning to keep both locations as they cater to different sectors of the city. The Hyde Park neighbourhood has changed a lot over the years – it’s less rural and less rustic – but it has an established customer base in the west side while the new store caters to downtown.

Finally, how do you stay inspired?

I take my inspiration from various sources. Because I have an art background, artwork excites me as do magazines and gift shows when we could attend them.

Our customers also keep me motivated because they are always excited to see what’s new.

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CanGift 365 Relaunch!

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Boho

Chic How to showcase a curated collection of on-trend merchandise

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Surfing Online Your customers are surfing Instagram, Google and Pinterest looking for home decorating ideas. Why not become their local style expert? Show your customers how to decorate their entryway in the latest boho chic fashions with a narrow table display.

Take a Seat Increase your sales by adding additional display surfaces such as a side chair or ottoman.

Luxe Surfaces Place smooth glass vases on woven trays set upon a soft fluffy sheepskin for the ultimate tabletop feature. The addition of texture to a display invites clients to touch and interact with the products, resulting in increased sales.

Feather spray, glass vases, sheepskin rug, Candym Enterprises, 800-263-3551, www.candym.com Rope-handled basket, Abbott, 800-263-2955, www.abbottcollection.com; feather spray, glass vases, white ceramic dishes, sheepskin rug, metal and wood rack with hooks, Candym Enterprises, 800-263-3551, www.candym. com; Metal and wood rack with hooks, chunky knit throw, Canfloyd, 800-263-3551, www.canfloyd.com; macrame wall hanging, lamp, basket, pots, Nostalgia Import Canada, 800-785-7855, www.nostalgia-import.com

Styling and text by Leslie Groves Photography by Will Fournier www.instoremagazine.ca

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Show Off Wall hangings, whether traditional framed art or on-trend macrame, add texture to walls and elongate a display. They also show customers how to use the pieces in their own spaces.

White ceramic dish, Candym Enterprises, 800-263-3551, www.candym.com Macrame wall hanging, lamp, pot, Nostalgia Import Canada, 800-785-7855, www.nostalgia-import.com

Layered Looks Textiles cascading over the table and chair softens the display, creates steps for the eye to follow and connects the various levels.

Rope-handled basket, Abbott, 800-263-2955, www.abbottcollection.com Chunky knit throw, Canfloyd, 800-263-3551, www.canfloyd.com

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BEST SELLING

M A DE I N C A NA DA

DREAM RANGE New Look For 2022

To place your order contact Finesse Home Fragrances e: sales@finesseoils.com www.finesseoils.com

Finesse Home

- Sechelt - BC - CANADA - tel: 604 885 5494

hello Canada. we’re Juniper is a fully integrated, omnichannel B2B commerce solution, helping buyers & sellers grow their business.

for wholesalers sales automation & commerce platform

for retailers and wholesalers B2B e-commerce marketplace

• product data management

• over 1,400 brands, millions of SKUs and growing daily

• turnkey e-commerce website solutions

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• sales & order-writing software

• connecting sellers and buyers year-round

• customer relationship management

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all in the family by juniper

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From the people who bring you the best tools for managing and growing your business, Juniper let’s you reach customers anytime, everywhere.

ready to scale your business? contact us today.

Ray Shikatani | Country Manager, Canada rshikatani@junipercommerce.com | 877.590.8281 © 2021 International Market Centers, LLC

Styling by Leslie Groves Photography by Will Fournier

Golden Hour Décor trends this season focus on glam neutrals and celebrate the female form

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Golden Hour

Casual Comfort 1

2

Consumers are craving cozy, warm interiors with natural accents and just a hint of glam

3

1/ Embroidered cotton cushion, Accents de Ville, 800-691-2166, www.pineadvbovi.com

4

2/ Cleo baskets, $80 retail for two, Indaba Trading, 800-746-3222, www.indabatrading.com

5

3/ Wire globe on stand, Abbott, 800-263-2955, www.abbottcollection.com 4/ Rattan wall plate, $92 retail, Pokoloko, 844-476-5656, www.pokoloko.com 5/ Waffle-weave towel, $60 retail, Indaba Trading, 800-746-3222, www.indabatrading.com

6

7

6/ Rope-handled basket, Abbott, 800-263-2955, www.abbottcollection.com 7/ Celestial wall hanging from Fringe Canvas, $36.99 retail, Edenborough, 800-265-6398, www.edenborough.com 8/ Jute and cotton cushion, $65 retail, North American Country Home, 888-303-2221, www.northamericancountryhome.com

8 9

9/ Wooden shell and fish garland, Pine, 800-691-2166, www.pineadvbovi.com

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Golden Hour

Casual Comfort 1

2

Consumers are craving cozy, warm interiors with natural accents and just a hint of glam 4

1/ Scalloped container set from Sullivans, $45.50 retail, Canfloyd, 800-263-3551, www.canfloyd.com 2/ Macrame cotton cushion, Accents de Ville, 800-691-2166, www.pineadvbovi.com

3

3/ Wood, bead and shell tassel, Pine, 800-691-2166, www.pineadvbovi.com 4/ Cotton cushion, $75 retail, North American Country Home, 888-303-2221, www.northamericancountryhome.com

5

6

5/ Heart throw, $40 retail, Indaba Trading, 800-746-3222, www.indabatrading.com 6/ Athens vase, $36 retail, Indaba Trading, 800-746-3222, www.indabatrading.com 7/ Ivory fur mat, $80 retail, Canfloyd, 800-263-3551, www.canfloyd.com 8/ Cotton ‘Hello’ cushion, Accents de Ville, 800-691-2166, www.pineadvbovi.com

7

8

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IT'S BEEN A WHILE Shop our freshly designed booth at the Toronto Market @indabatradingco

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Handcrafted in Canada Solid Pine Home Accent Furnishings

Book Shelves

Wall Décor Coffee & End Tables

Storage Solutions

SpringwaterWoodcraft.com hello@springwaterwoodcraft.com 1-888-294-6297

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Golden Hour

Female Form 1

3 2

Almost all major gift collections include a piece or two which pays tribute to the female form 1/ Cement planter, Bovi Home, 800-691-2166, www.pineadvbovi.com 2/ Eight-inch ceramic vase, Abbott, 800-263-2955, www.abbottcollection.com 3/ Embroidered line art cushion, Bovi Home, 800-691-2166, www.pineadvbovi.com 4/ Mallorca cushion, $39 retail, Nostalgia Import Canada, 800-785-7855, www.nostalgia-import.com

5 4

5/ Cast iron dish, Abbott, 800-263-2955, www.abbottcollection.com 6/ Framed prints, Frans Koppers Imports, 866-604-0490, www.koppershome.com

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Golden Hour

Female Form 2 1 3

Almost all major gift collections include a piece or two which pays tribute to the female form 1/ Small porcelain plate, Abbott, 800-263-2955, www.abbottcollection.com

4

5

2/ Framed photo, $35 retail, Nostalgia Import Canada, 800-785-7855, www.nostalgia-import.com 3/ Planter, Abbott, 800-263-2955, www.abbottcollection.com 4/ Textured cement planter, Accents de Ville, 800-691-2166, www.pineadvbovi.com 5/ Mug, $8 retail, Nostalgia Import Canada, 800-785-7855, www.nostalgia-import.com 6/ Cotton cushion, $47 retail, Candym Enterprises, 800-263-3551, www.candym.com

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the spring collection This season’s collection is inspired by positivity; with vibrant colors and patterns, bold silhouettes and sustainable materials to boost your mood.

Featuring Blue Light Focus™ technology to help prevent symptoms of digital eye strain*

Style Sawyer

*Computer vision syndrome, also referred to as digital eye strain, describes a group of eye and vision-related problems that result from prolonged computer, tablet, e-reader and cell phone use by the American Optometric Association. Computer vision syndrome.

2017. https://www.aoa.org/healthy-eyes/eye-and-vision-conditions/computer-vision-syndrome?sso=y (Accessed February 9, 2021)

reading • blue light • sun

Style Neptune

Style Showbiz

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Embracing Change

A

s I look at my 30-year career in the gift and home industry, I think about the people and businesses I’ve worked with. Straight out of college, I decided to work in a family business and pursue a career in sales. I started as a road representative, covering southwestern Ontario, and it’s been an amazing journey of discovery and building relationships with the people that make up our community of entrepreneurs. I’m very lucky to have never regarded my career as a job.

Throughout this pandemic, we’ve compressed 10 years of retail and wholesale evolution into a span of 18 months. I don’t recall any other time when our industry has gone through such dramatic change and adversity. www.instoremagazine.ca

From adversity comes opportunity and we’ve all learned so much about our businesses and ourselves. We’ve come together as a community to help each other move forward. It has left us feeling bewildered, vulnerable, and questioning what the future will hold as well as how we’ll adapt and pivot our businesses.

I’ve spent the last several months speaking to many close colleagues and friends about how they’ve adapted and what they see for the future. We all agree that the rapid changes we’re experiencing are very impactful and wonder what the new normal will look like. During the pandemic, technology has enabled us not only to withstand monumental change, but also to enhance our connectivity.

However, technology has also disrupted our lives in both positive

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Connecting Our Community Through Technology

By Ray Shikatani

and negative ways. With dozens of ecommerce and marketplace platforms to choose from, the choices can seem overwhelming. As the world continues to become globally connected, sales technology has become more complex and costly. Navigating a matrix of technological components – ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) systems, marketplace platforms, sales automation and CRM tools, websites, data management and more – can be fragmented and confusing with seemingly endless choices. Deciding on the most cost-effective, highest ROI is paramount to success.

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products are more affordable and accessible. From simple off-the-shelf website design programs to transactional and fully-integrated systems, there are products suited for businesses of all sizes.

Our industry will use technology to continue to evolve – blending the physical with the digital. While we will never lose the desire to experience a face-to-face meeting, to touch, feel, and smell the products that we sell, technology also enables us to connect – anytime and everywhere – with our customers and our colleagues. Technology can help to elevate our overall experience.

HERE ARE A FEW SIMPLE QUESTIONS TO PONDER AS WE MOVE FURTHER INTO THE DIGITAL AGE: • What does your digital strategy look like?

• Is your digital strategy meeting your goals? Where can you do better?

• Are you spending enough time and resources on your digital strategies?

• Is your digital and ecommerce business fully-integrated into your other systems?

• How are your key stakeholders, internal staff, sales team, and customers connected and how does it impact their world?

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Our industry will use technology to continue to evolve – blending the physical with the digital.

Good technology is not about replacing people but helping connect people and businesses more efficiently, whether at markets or on the road. The key to growing our industry is building a seamless connection between physical and digital markets while supporting all the unique small and medium businesses that make our industry so special.

Ray Shikatani has worked in the wholesale gift market for more than 30 years, most recently joining Juniper Commerce as country manager for Canada. Prior to that Ray was the president and a partner with David Youngson and Associates and served on the board of directors for the Canadian Gift Association. Ray can be reached at shikatani@junipercommerce.com.

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socksmithcanada.com

new fun and cozy loungewear

solmatecanada.com

flirty andfemme .com

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Party E

ssentials for Summer Styling by Leslie Groves Photography by Will Fournier

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Textiles For a Well Dressed Kitchen TORONTO GIFT FAIR 1/30/22-2/3/22

HTTPS://WWW.CANGIFT.ORG

David Youngson & Associates Toronto Congress Centre South 650 Dixon Road Toronto Hall 1 Booths 1103/1115/1127 www.Youngson.com (800) 370-4857 ext. 123

KITCHEN

aprons • mitts • tabletop • towels

WWW.KAYDEEDESIGNS.COM (p) 800-537-3433 • (f) 800-272-0724 ORDERS@KAYDEEDESIGNS.COM

6860 Pacific Circle, Mississauga, ON L5T 1N8 www.stargazeroriginals.com (905) 670-3346 SHOP OUR WAREHOUSE OR ONLINE

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Summer Party 1

Essentials 2

3

BY THE POOL 1/ Pool sign, $25 retail, Frans Koppers Imports, 866-604-0490, www.koppershome.com 2/ Tea towel from Danica Jubilee, $10 retail for two, Danica, 888-632-6422, www.danicabrands.com 3/ Wedge placemats from Highland, $4.50 retail each, Candym Enterprises, 800-263-3551,www.candym.com

5

4/ Gingham picnic throw, $43 retail, Indaba Trading, 800-746-3222, www.indabatrading.com 5/ Tray, $32 retail, Nostalgia Import Canada, 800-785-7855, www.nostalgia-import.com

4

6/ Sponge cloth from Ecologie by Danica, $6 retail, Danica, 888-632-6422, www.danicabrands.com 7/ Second Spin tea towel set from Now Designs, $13 retail, Danica, 888-632-6422, www.danicabrands.com 8/ Macrame coasters from Danica Heirloom, $30 retail, Danica, 888-632-6422, www.danicabrands.com

7 6

9/ Gingham picnic throw, $43 retail, Indaba Trading, 800-746-3222, www.indabatrading.com

7

8

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SPPJNGTIME FAVOUPJTES F0R WHOLESALE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: SALES@MARYMACLEO D.COM

www.marymacleod.com

MADE IN L PORTUGA

Large Collection of

PORTUGUESE Uniquely curated. Exceptionally Preserved. saltspringkitchen.com Represented by sprucedya.com 78

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POTS

Toll Free Telephone: 1-866-317-0702 Website: www.portugalimports.ca E-mail: info@portugalimports.ca

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Summer Party

Essentials

1

COOL CLASSICS

3 2

1/ Smores set from Mud Pie, $68.50 retail, Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca 2/ Be Zesty tea towel from Primitives By Kathy, $23 retail, Candym Enterprises, 800-263-3551, www.candym.com 3/ Happiness pitcher from Primitives By Kathy, $31 retail, Candym Enterprises, 800-263-3551, www.candym.com 4/ HoneyBee disposable bowls from Sophistiplate, Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca

5

5/ HoneyBee disposable cutlery set from Sophistiplate, $41.50 retail, Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca

4

6/ Oven mitts, $16 retail for two, Nostalgia Import Canada, 800-785-7855, www.nostalgia-import.com 7/ Reusable bowl covers from Now Designs, $22 retail, Danica, 888-632-6422, www.danicabrands.com 8/ Bee 68-inch string of lights, Abbott, 800-263-2955, www.abbottcollection.com

6

9/ HoneyBee napkins from Sophistiplate, $12.50 retail, Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca

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What’s

Next The Hottest Trends for Spring & Summer

By Erica Kirkland

POPULAR MOTIFS & THEMES

The Splendor Collection from Danica Heirloom features tactile textures in warm, earthy tones, Danica, 888-632-6422, www.danicabrands.com

Defined by illustrations of vegetables, gardens, garden tools, terrariums and garden sheds, the Market trend continues to be strong this year, inspired by farmers markets and featuring trendy fruit and veggie prints.

Consumers can’t seem to get enough of bees, bunnies and lemons as these motifs are being offered again in 2022 by numerous suppliers. Also, as consumers crave a feeling of wellness, the popularity of suns and rainbows is still high.

Overarching and dominant design themes for 2022 include an evolution of the bohemian gypsy trend or Gypsy Oasis as ADV has named its newest home décor assortment. It’s defined by patterned pottery, tactile textiles (tassels, chenille, embroidery, kilim weaves); rattan and wicker furniture and accent furniture; brass vases, trays and candlesticks; jute rugs and placements; white-washed wood trays and cutting boards; celestial wall hangings and hanging planters.

A fresh emerging trend takes on a timeless laidback Mediterranean vibe with earthy colours balanced with soft neutrals; raw and warm textures; handcrafted details; simple bright white and neutral linens and natural-grass rugs. Some notable treatments and product types popped up again and again: rattan and pottery, scalloped edges, ribbed glass, decorative marble and wood links, simple line art and a ton of baskets. www.instoremagazine.ca

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The new Paradiso collection from Tag features elements of both Mediterranean and bohemian themes. Distributed by Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca.

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Bohemian styles continue to trend in home décor collections. Shown here is a lifestyle shot from ADV’s new Gypsy Oasis collection, 800-691-2166, www.pineadvbovi.com.

Indaba’s new Moonshadow collection embraces a laid-back Mediterranean vibe, 800-746-3222, www.indabatrading.com

HOTTEST DÉCOR ACCENT OF 2022!

Wooden and marble links are very trendy. Shown here are styles from Bovi, 800-691-2166 www.pineadvbovi.com

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creating beauty since 1975

fyi!

We have a new booth location for the Toronto Gift & Home Market!

Hall 2, Booth 2487.

See you there!

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RIGHT HERE

on your OWN Appealing to Consumers Who Want to Shop and Support Local Businesses

BY CLAIRE SYKES

S

mart shop owners do what they love, while giving customers what they want, and today many people want to shop independent, locally-owned stores. These kinds of businesses couldn’t be more important, especially since the pandemic shut down so many smaller operations.

Locally-owned retail businesses are important because they: 1. Boost the economy.

Money that’s spent in your local area stays and gets invested there.

2. Better the planet.

Shipping and receiving use less transportation, which saves energy and reduces traffic and pollution.

3. Build community. Unique businesses give shape to the distinctive personality of a neighbourhood or region.

www.instoremagazine.ca

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“ Unique businesses give shape to the distinctive personality of a neighbourhood or region.”

SHOUT IT FROM THE ROOFTOPS As an independent business owner, let your customers know just how important your store is to the local area.

Promote it. On your website, window signage and business cards, and in ads, emails and flyers, say “independent and locally-owned.”

Blog it. Devote a separate page to brief articles about your locally-made products and how your store benefits customers and the community.

Post it. On all your sites in every post, daily and weekly, include your latest products and remind visitors that you’re local.

Voice it. In conversations with customers and others, mention that your store is a local and independent one, and why that’s a good thing. Consumer awareness of the benefits of independent and locally-owned businesses is growing. When you join in by actively promoting your business as such, your store will grow as well.

Claire Sykes is a Portland, Ore.-based freelancer who writes on a variety of business topics. (sykeswrites.com) www.instoremagazine.ca

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Find us on Shopzio or email us for more information at sales@jeansandatee.ca

Jeans and a Tee 88

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CanGift 2022 January 30 to February 3 Booth #1744 Book your appointment now!

Anne-Marie Chagnon Inc 514-844-0499 amelieh@annemariechagnon.com

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The Journey to

Becoming a Destination

By Natalie Hammer Noblitt

T

he rules of retail change rapidly these days but creating a destinationfocused business remains a winning strategy for independent stores. Destination architect and expert Jon Schallert offers some rules to keep in mind when creating a shopping destination.

Q. What does a modern retail destination look like?

A. During the shutdowns, businesses who understood the principles of a destination business, along with the use of technology, excelled. They realized consumers could buy almost anything online and have it delivered, so retailers who set themselves apart earned new business and recovered from the upheaval to their operations faster. Even retailers who were not tech savvy before 2020 found ways to connect with customers in a virtual way. Many utilized video — including short humorous videos, longer salesdriven videos or authentic content on Facebook and Instagram. These businesses recognized the need to expand their marketplace beyond www.instoremagazine.ca

traditional local boundaries.

Providing superior customer service now means meeting customers on their own terms. While there are fewer shutdowns now, many retailers are still working with ordinances and mandates. The new revenue streams they’ve created online are working. The principles of a destination business remain the same but can now be done on a grander scale.

Q. What’s the first step to expanding a store’s borders and becoming a destination?

A. The one that comes straight to mind is a weaving shop in Michigan.

The owner is an accomplished weaver, so people in the area were glad to have her advice and the shop was sustained by local residents. During the shutdown, she got a grant to create a studio and began broadcasting all over the world. People from everywhere now pay to take her online classes, and many are also traveling great distances to meet her and shop at the store. I could give at least 10 more examples of stories like this one.

A. One of the keys to creating a destination is for the business owner to recognize themself as an expert. Most independent retailers are, whether they think they are or not. If you dig deep enough, you’ll realize there are topics on which you have profound understanding. People are craving connections and want to learn from others, so store owners who’re willing to talk about their expertise have an advantage.

Next, the owner must communicate that expertise to others. Obtain free press by offering your knowledge.

Many store owners I know are on television and sharing their expertise in blogs and on social media. Once word gets out that you offer more than just products, you become a destination and shoppers have a reason to choose your store over other sources, even for the same merchandise.

Having a physical space is also an advantage. In a physical retail space, we know what a customer will do

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Q. Can you give a recent example of a store which successfully transitioned into a destination business?

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when they walk in, where they will turn and the key positions in the space to get their attention. Having this is like having a stage set up to expand the whole experience and reinforce good feelings after getting to know you online. It’s giving them that excitement of “Boy, aren’t you lucky you came into our store today!”

That’s much easier to convey in person than online.

Q. What are the long-term benefits of becoming a retail destination?

A. Business owners must understand that consumers will change their purchase habits with minimal cues.

You don’t need a huge advantage over Amazon or other big competitors to get business. If you can highlight just two points of uniqueness that customers find fascinating, that is your hook. The ability to be authentic and transparent with customers kept many small businesses afloat when chains and franchises had to be uniform and inflexible.

As your destination becomes more dominant, you can attract new people — and make it so locals feel proud you’re located nearby. Shoppers who come from up to two hours away will always spend more in one purchase 90

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than locals. Because these shoppers took the time to get in the car and drive to your store, they’re going to buy everything they think they might need, not just one or two items. Locals think they can easily come back and make much smaller transactions.

What’s cool about creating an area of destination businesses in rural communities is that you can measure the sales tax increases coming out of this change in local marketing. I speak to economic development groups and those in charge of cities because the increase in tax revenue can really make an impact on a smaller town.

Urban businesses who existed off a limited marketplace are the ones who went out of business at the beginning of the pandemic. Many were great little shops who had customers embrace them, but many who thought they had prime locations no longer had enough customers nearby to sustain their business. When there’s no longer the convenience of being located next to a big office park, they realize their business is like many others, and it’s time they found a way to be different.

For more information on Jon Schallert and his work as a destination expert, speaker and consultant coach, visit jonschallert.com

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SWEATY BOOBS ARE NO PICNIC

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Far-reaching developments pose challenges for the industry. Innovations, trends and variety provide inspiration to the retail sector. Important players and newcomers to the consumer goods market come together at Ambiente and present their original ideas.

GOING. LIVE. AGAIN. New digital features support business.

Information and tickets: ambiente.messefrankfurt.com Tel. +1 905 824 5017 info@canada.messefrankfurt.com

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FRANKFURT / MAIN

29. 1. – 1. 2. 2022 FRANKFURT / MAIN

Together again in Frankfurt – at last!

Discover all the latest products and trends at Christmasworld, Paperworld and Creativeworld at a single venue and use the inspirational diversity of these three parallel trade fairs to create your product assortment.

An array of new digital features – including informative live streams and networking with business partners – help ensure a successful start to the new season.

For Combi tickets and further information, visit: christmasworld.messefrankfurt.com paperworld.messefrankfurt.com creativeworld.messefrankfurt.com info@canada.messefrankfurt.com Tel. +1 905 824 5017

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Going with the FLOW How to Streamline Your Receiving Area

By Claire Sykes

W

hen boulders fall into a rolling river, it either slows down or eddies up. The same goes for your receiving area. Throw in enough obstacles at the headwaters and you’ll impede the flow of inventory from delivery door to sales floor.

www.instoremagazine.ca

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If you fail to streamline your receiving area, you’ll waste time chasing and correcting mistakes and that can result in shaky order estimates, inventory imbalances and added costs. To steer clear of glitches and snags from truck to till, make sure you do the following: * Preset retail prices. Determine dollar amounts at the time of ordering, not as product arrives. You’ll make better margin decisions when you’re not under pressure. * Plan your loading dock. If you don’t have one and are considering it, consult with a facility-planning expert first. You want to assure optimum positioning, access, traffic flow, efficiency and safety. * Determine equipment & department layout. Find the right carts to easily and rapidly transport as much merchandise as possible, helped by logically-located and easy-to-navigate aisles and pathways. * Choose compatible vendors. Work with suppliers who match your delivery needs and schedule. Your immediate merchandise concerns should take priority, not someone else’s delivery zones or routings.

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“If you fail to streamline your receiving area, you’ll waste time chasing and correcting mistakes and that can result in shaky order estimates, inventory imbalances and added costs.”

It’s worth the time, thought and money to streamline your receiving area so that you get the correct items in front of your customers as quickly as you can. Improve and properly maintain the course your inventory takes from the moment it first reaches you and watch your profits soar.

Claire Sykes is a Portland, Ore.-based freelancer who writes on a variety of business topics. (sykeswrites.com)

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Handmaking our 100% pure beeswax candles for over 20 years

Warkworth, Ontario, Canada 1-866-243-3592 • 705-924-9330 • www.cheekybee.com

FREE SUBSCRIPTION! COMPANY

The magazine Canadian retailers turn to for advice, insight, products and new suppliers.

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Mail your free subscription form to: InStore Magazine: 103 Niska Drive, Waterdown ON L8B 0M8 - You may also scan or take a pic of this form and email to editorial@instoremagazine.ca or subscribe online at www.instoremagazine.ca.

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Making outside easy

Non-toxic, vegan materials

Designed American Podiatric SPECIFICALLY Medical Association for kids 0-6 years Certified

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Wholesale contact: info@kidcentral.ca

On the Hunt Tracking down the sweetest products for babies and kids in our bi-annual gift guide

Stylin g by Leslie Grove s Photo graphy b Will F ournie y r

www.instoremagazine.ca

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Sunshine &

Baby & Kids GIFT GUIDE

1

Rainbows 3

2

4 1/ Suitcase from Penny Scallan Design, $84.99 retail, Kidcentral Supply, 877-218-0395, www.kidcentral.ca 2/ Rainbow teether toys from Lucy Darling, $32.99 retail, Kidcentral Supply, 877-218-0395, www.kidcentral.ca

5

3/ Bamboo dish set, $25 retail, Frans Koppers Imports, 866-604-0490, www.koppershome.com 4/ Rainbow growth chart from Stephan Baby, $46.50 retail, Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca

6

5/ Umbrella from Penny Scallan Design, $14.95 retail, Kidcentral Supply, 877-218-0395, www.kidcentral.ca 6/ Rainbow memory book from Lucy Darling, $49.99 retail, Kidcentral Supply, 877-218-0395, www.kidcentral.ca 7/ Alphabet knit throw, $35 retail, Frans Koppers Imports, 866-604-0490, www.koppershome.com

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Celebrate Hope!

Time to celebrate!

ASTRA • Atlanta • Dallas • Las Vegas • Seattle • Toronto • Minneapolis

Baby & Kids

Spiffy Duds

GIFT GUIDE

3

1

2

1/ Denim poncho, $59.95 retail, Pokoloko, 844-476-5656, www.pokoloko.com 2/ Infant t-shirt from Kidcentral Essentials, $22.99 retail, Kidcentral Supply, 877-218-0395, www.kidcentral.ca 3/ Snap clips from Baby Wisp, $19.99 retail, Kidcentral Supply, 877-218-0395, www.kidcentral.ca

4

5

4/ Hoppers Studio bib set from Bella Flor, 800-667-1902, www.bellaflor.ca 5/ Headband from Baby Wisp, $15.99 retail, Kidcentral Supply, 877-218-0395, www.kidcentral.ca 6/ Elegant Baby socks, $36.50 retail for set of three, Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca 7/ Infant t-shirt from Kidcentral Essentials, $22.99 retail, Kidcentral Supply, 877-218-0395, www.kidcentral.ca

7

6

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KEEP THE MAGIC OF PLAY GOING, EVEN WHEN IT’S TIME TO TIDY UP

Functional for everyday life with baby Kidcentral Supply Inc. Kidcentral.ca info@kidcentral.ca 1-877-218-0395 Instagram: @kidcentralsupply

Our towels offer a warm embrace with a friendly face both parents and babies wii love!

great gifts for the little ones!

Contact our distributor to see the entire collection.

Baby & Kids GIFT GUIDE

Animal Farm 2

1

3

1/ Cherry plush from YuMe Originals, $14.99 retail, Kidcentral Supply, 877-218-0395, www.kidcentral.ca 2/ Hat from FlapJackKids, $22.95 retail, Kidcentral Supply, 877-218-0395, www.kidcentral.ca

4

3/ Hypoallergenic handmade stuffed lion, $54 retail, Pokoloko, 844-476-5656, www.pokoloko.com 4/ Embroidered lumbar pillow, $27 retail, Frans Koppers Imports, 866-604-0490, www.koppershome.com 5/ Squirrel storage box from Potwells Storage, $21.99 retail, Kidcentral Supply, 877-218-0395, www.kidcentral.ca

5

6/ Masterpieces floor puzzle, $17.99 retail, Bella Flor, 800-667-1902, www.bellaflor.ca

6

7/ Loosey Goosey stuffed animals from Mary Meyer, $12.99 retail each, Kidcentral Supply, 877-218-0395, www.kidcentral.ca

7

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Leading source in wholesale and distribution, providing baby and maternity products to every growing Canadian home!

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Kidcentral Essentials - Infant T-Shirt Doddle & Co - Pop & Go Pacifier YuMe Originals - Food Plush Taco FlapJackKids - Lifeguard Straw Hat - Koala Lucy Darling - Little Camper Baby Teether Toy and Little Camper Memory Book 6. Mary Meyer - Down Under Mates - Koala Lovey 7. Bumkins - Silicone Bibs - Camp Gear

8. Yogasleep - Pocket Baby Soother Portable Sound Machine 9. Baby Einstein - Musical Mix ‘N Roll 4-in-1 Activity Walker 10. Little Cheeks - Beaver Teether 11. Penny Scallan - School Lunchbox, Large Back Pack and Drink Bottle Stainless Steel

Baby & Kids GIFT GUIDE

Grey Matter 2 3

1

1/ Heartful Hugs lamb from Demdaco, $64 retail, Canfloyd, 800-263-3551, www.canfloyd.com

4

2/ Hat from FlapJackKids, $22.95 retail, Kidcentral Supply, 877-218-0395, www.kidcentral.ca 3/ Silky Bunny from Mary Meyer, $23.99 retail, Kidcentral Supply, 877-218-0395, www.kidcentral.ca

5

4/ Demdaco Hug It Better Buddy Elephant, $42 retail, Canfloyd, 800-263-3551, www.canfloyd.com 5/ Fleece star pillow, $38.50 retail, Pokoloko, 844-476-5656, www.pokoloko.com 6/ Birthday Cookie Cutter Set from Stephan Baby, $17.50 retail, Design Home Gift & Paper, 800-663-9950, www.designhome.ca

6

7

7/ Bummed Out Diaper Cream, $19.99 retail, Walton Wood Farm, 844-834-3276, www.waltonwoodfarm.com

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“Everybody Needs a Warm Buddy”

Ultra Soft Cuddle Collection Warm-Up Plush Animals Stress Relieving Comforts

Ultra Soft Warm Cuddle Booties Cozy Spa Robes

Superior Heat Therapy

made in Canada

Cozy Bunny Slippers

www.warmbuddy.com

1-888-649-0649

Put Spring in Your Store And a Jump in Your Sales.

www.kidcentral.ca info@kidcentral.ca

www.instoremagazine.ca

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CHERISH CHILDHOOD

and remember

EVERY DARLING MOMENT

Kidcentral Supply kidcentral.ca • info@kidcentral.ca • 1-877-218-0395

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ADEPT24 Business Solu�ons Inc. | Hall 2 - Booth #2111

Advertise where your products will be seen.

Advertise in our next issue!

905-690-0492 ekirkland@ instoremagazine.ca

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inSight Barbara Crowhurst

Start Strong in the New Year

S

et in motion a year of rejuvenation in 2022 by setting goals to increase your foot traffic and sales. Here are some ideas on how you can achieve those goals.

MARKET ACROSS MULTIPLE PLATFORMS

Marketing holds the key to your success. Chart out your marketing plan by day, week, month, quarter, season and year. Set projected sales figures and highlight the products and events which result in the highest returns for your store.

This year it’s important to make your website, Instagram and Facebook are all in sync. Canadians check their phones on average every 10 minutes.

Research shows Instagram users check the app daily while Facebook users check in at least 13 times a day.

Data indicates that Instagram is the best social media platform for customers below the age of 45 and that daily updates are sufficient.

Regardless of the platform, it’s always a great idea to make sure your social media content shows off your store inside and out. Highlight your products, post images that create positive associations with your brand values and inspire customers by projecting a lifestyle in your posts. Share your promotions and events. Show friendly faces – yourself, staff and customers. Highlight your services and go behind the scenes.

Also be sure to share links across various platforms.

For instance, who said your Facebook Live video only had to be promoted on Facebook? Promote it across your other social channels to get users to tune into your video on Facebook Live.

MARRY ONLINE AND OFFLINE EXPERIENCES

Newsletters are still one of the best platforms for connecting with clients over 45. I suggest sending a weekly newsletter which highlights your in-store experience and the shopping experience you offer online.

Increasing your customers’ awareness of your online operations will increase your online visits and sales.

People want to support local business, so don’t be afraid to ask them for their contact information.

No matter how or when, it’s important to develop and maintain a customer database. Simply ask your customers to sign-up for your email newsletter with a name and email to receive updates on specials and new www.instoremagazine.ca

products. To keep them hooked, twice a year hold a draw for a $100 gift certificate.

Your website should also provide links to your social media feeds and Facebook Live videos.

EMBRACE RETAIL ANALYTICS

Understanding your customers’ behaviour and adapting your strategies in kind is an important component to succeeding in business today, yet not enough retailers regularly look at reports and evaluate what they mean. Daily sales, daily average sales, daily and hourly traffic counts and conversion rates are all vital to understanding your business, not to mention sales by employee, sales by category and sales by supplier.

CREATE A SELLING SERVICE CULTURE

Too often staff only sell what they like. Encourage them to sell all the products you carry, and to focus on increasing your average sale in the New Year. There are a variety of ways to do this. One technique is to offer a ‘deal of the day’ to each or select customers. It goes something like this: “If you spend $100 with us today, we have a gift waiting for you at the checkout,’ and that gift should have a perceived value of $25.

Another strategy is to focus on increasing your average sale by a certain percentage, let’s say 20 percent.

So, if your average sale is $40, your goal will be to add $8 to every sale for a 20 percent increase. How do you do this? Train well-selected staff to show more items when working with a customer. After the customer has found what they came in for, show them your ‘pick of the week’ and/or a selection of items in the $8 price range.

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

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inSight The Passionate Retailer

Finding Opportunities Among Crisis and Chaos

W

riting this column for the past year and a half has been one of the highlights of my career. It’s truly an honour to be able to speak with independent retailers across the country about topics that are relevant to us, especially during these turbulent times. In previous columns, I’ve discussed ways our industry could build back better after the pandemic, the amazing experiences I’ve had connecting with customers at curbside, the stresses of suddenly having to pivot my business yet again and why I’ve added advocate, influencer and pivoteur to my job title. Since the start I’ve hoped that by sharing my thoughts and experiences, independent retailers would be better understood, connected and inspired. These are lofty goals but ones I believe are worth pursuing.

Predictions for 2022 suggest that we will be facing another challenging year. The global pandemic is far from over, and several other troubling trends and themes are emerging, including the climate crisis, supply chain delays, labour and product shortages, rising inflation, changing consumer behaviours and growing concerns about mental health and addictions.

As bad as this all may seem, there’s good reason to be optimistic. We’ve already proven ourselves to be a resilient lot, nimbly adapting to change and spotting the opportunities hidden in the chaos.

CLIMATE CRISIS

Let’s take climate crisis, for example. Extreme, destructive weather events happening at home and abroad are signalling that our climate is in an emergency. We should all be acting now to reduce carbon emissions. Not only does this mean reducing, reusing and recycling more at home and at work, but it also means offering customers more sustainable product options. In fact, conscious consumers and governments are going to demand that we do. www.instoremagazine.ca

This means offering shoppers more durable, versatile, reusable, repairable, recyclable and lowcarbon products. Every stage of the product’s life cycle must be considered in our choices, including the raw materials that go into the product, how and where they are manufactured and the packaging and shipping. And what happens to products once they arrive and leave our stores also matters.

Will you be reducing and/or offering less harmful packaging? And does shipping online orders halfway around the world and having them returned make sense during a climate emergency?

As a long-time retailer, I’m excited to do my part.

In 2022, I’m going to reuse the plastic bags that many products are shipped in at the checkout. I’m also planning to host my first gently worn coat sale this fall. I’m committed to do a better job promoting sustainable product options in my store and on social media.

Sorting through all of this isn’t going to be easy, but I believe that the suppliers and retailers that decide to become the climate champions and changemakers in 2022 will prosper.

Because of the challenges, these continue to be exciting times. Challenges are simply the push we need to change things for the better.

Wishing you all a healthy, prosperous, and transformative 2022.

Diane Petryna is the owner of Take A Hike and Take 2 Boutique in Thunder Bay, Ont. She has won numerous community and business awards, most recently an RBC Innovation Award for initiatives undertaken during Covid to sustain her business. Diane also leads the Passionate Retailer Facebook page (@passionateretailer) a place designed for independent retailers and industry partners to support and learn from one another.

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Scented Products for ALL Homes

and Styles

Canadian Made 1. Scented Soy Candles - Offered in over 50 scents, and 3 sizes.

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These Shower Steamers are a great addition to your at home shower, releasing aromatics making it feel like a spa experience.

thescentedmarket.ca | wholesale@thescentedmarket.ca | @thescentedmarket

inSight Retail Visions

Core Principles

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s a retail interior designer, I use my strategies and knowledge to help small businesses succeed in the retail industry by creating stores that are both beautiful and practical. My process is centered around focusing on the customer’s journey and how a brand can be represented in a physical space. Doing so ensures my three core principles are followed every step of the way. If you’re looking to open a new store or increase sales in an existing shop which needs a little love, keep reading, because these tips are for you.

BRANDING

Branding is the first tip on my list as it’s truly the first thing a retailer should think about. Great branding is key to establishing your company in the marketplace.

Reinforcing your branding within your retail space creates an emotional connection with customers which is how they remember you. To begin with ensure you have clear and defined brand colours. Your store should visually represent these colours throughout the space in different ways. Next, look at your fixtures, graphics and merchandising props to also ensure they align with your branding. For example, if your brand is fun, soft and cuddly, include fixtures, furniture and features that are rounded and playful. These will play into your brand experience and your customers will love it!

to make choices. Having cluttered displays with too many products makes it more difficult for clients to make their selections and you may even lose sales.

Keep this in mind when merchandising your space.

WINDOW DISPLAYS

It’s important to invest time and energy towards designing creative window displays that really catch the eye of your ideal target customer. Captivating window displays will increase your store traffic and thus, increase your sales. A few ways you can grab attention is by placing items at eye level, using solid or patterned backdrops and incorporating on-brand props and décor. When you wow your customers with great window displays, you will always get a return on your investment, so don’t skip this step.

If you focus on these three elements of design in your store, you will see a shift in the way your customers experience your space immediately.

Ensuring your brand is represented, that your displays are balanced and minimalist and that your window displays are beautiful, will do wonders for your retail store.

UNCLUTTERING

Reducing what you put on the shelves creates balance and elevates the products you sell. Having a minimalist approach to display allows customers to clearly see the merchandise, making it easier for them www.instoremagazine.ca

Nickeisha Lewis is the founder of Nola Designs, a retail interior design firm based in Kitchener, Ont. Nickeisha and her team focus on helping female-owned businesses take their retail stores to the next level. www.noladesigns.ca

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inStore. Winter 2022

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inForm CanGift Connects

We’re Back!

By Anita Schachter

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fter almost two years of sourcing products online, it’s time to get back to faceto-face buying. Retailers have done a fantastic job of acquiring products via catalogues and taking Zoom showroom tours, but a return to a more human experience is just around the corner. The return of the live Toronto Gift & Home Market, taking place from January 30 to February 3, brings a newfound appreciation for gathering in person. Enjoy touching and feeling products as you scour the aisles for your next bestseller, obtaining product information immediately, seeing old friends and renewing relationships with suppliers. If you haven’t registered yet, please reach out to our retail engagement staff today at registration@cangift.org.

As we prepare to come back together, our key priority is the health and safety of our community.

As we prepare to come back together, our key priority is the health and safety of our community.

CanGift’s Safety First Reopening Plan outlines the procedures in place to keep everyone protected. Visit our website (cangift.org) to read the entire plan and learn more about the policies we are putting in place which include: • Requiring proof of full vaccination to attend the show, and mask-wearing at all times • A revised floor plan to allow for plenty of physical distancing

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inStore. Winter 2022

• Enhanced sanitization measures including stations throughout the show floor Let’s be kind, respectful and considerate of each other as we follow these extra steps which are meant to protect you and those around you.

If you’re attending the show, I urge you to drop by booth 3975 to learn more about our year-round online marketplace. CanGift 365, powered by Markettime, is here to help you source products online in between our live shows.

Wishing you a 2022 filled with good health and strong sales.

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

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inSpire. inForm. inStore.

Introducing our new line of children’s toys, Kidoki!

Looking forward to seeing you again!

Gift + Home Market Toronto January 30 - February 3

kikkerland.co m

1-800-869-1105

@kikkerland

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